WASHINGTON, D.C. — Kaiden Guhle quickly experienced the intensity of Stanley Cup Playoffs hockey, getting hit hard by Tom Wilson early in his first playoff game.
The young player, like many of his Montreal Canadiens teammates new to playoff action, quickly realized the heightened pace and physicality compared to regular season games.
“Playing from the TV is much easier,” Guhle commented, emphasizing the increased speed on the ice. “It’s definitely a lot faster when you’re actually out on the ice.”
For Guhle and other Canadiens making their playoff debut, simply experiencing the atmosphere was a significant takeaway. Despite Alex Ovechkin`s overtime goal securing a 1-0 series lead for Washington, Montreal demonstrated resilience.
Although Ovechkin scored first for the Capitals, the Canadiens showed they were not intimidated.
Capitals coach Spencer Carbery acknowledged Montreal`s fighting spirit, stating, “This team will not go quietly.”
The Canadiens mirrored their regular-season form, showing resilience and bouncing back from pressure. They have a history of comeback wins and nearly repeated that in this playoff opener.
Crucially, Cole Caufield scored on a power play, and Nick Suzuki tied the game late in regulation. Montreal`s comeback included outshooting the Capitals 35-30 over the first three periods, shifting from a defensive position to an attacking one.
