- 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs
MONTREAL — As the Montreal Canadiens were solidifying their position and extending their lead late in Game 3 against the Washington Capitals, Élise Béliveau`s image appeared on the arena`s video screen.
The fans reacted instantly, raising the noise level to an almost unbearable roar the moment they saw her.
The cameras then shifted from Élise to the retired jersey of her late husband, Jean Béliveau. This prompted the crowd to spontaneously erupt in chants of: Béliveau! Béliveau! Béliveau!.
However, on this particular night at the Bell Centre, the Canadiens didn`t need to invoke the legendary spirit of the old Forum to unsettle the Capitals.
Josh Anderson had already taken charge. He delivered six exceptionally forceful hits throughout the game and fundamentally changed the series` atmosphere with a fight against Tom Wilson right at the close of the second period, a skirmish that spilled directly into the Washington bench.
Anderson`s impactful play set the example, and his teammates followed suit, culminating in a convincing 6-3 victory. This win was a direct result of their aggressive approach, highlighted by a significant 81-45 edge in shot attempts and a commanding 46-26 lead in hits. This aggressive push surprised the Capitals, who had previously established a strong 2-0 series lead with decisive wins in Washington.
