The Montreal Canadiens and Washington Capitals are set to face off in Game 4 of their Stanley Cup first-round series, with the Canadiens looking to even the series after their thrilling 6-3 win in Game 3. However, both teams are dealing with goaltending questions heading into the crucial matchup.
The Canadiens’ starting goalie, Sam Montembeault, left Game 3 with an injury at 11:39 of the second period and did not return. Backup Jakub Dobes stepped in and made an impressive playoff debut, stopping seven of eight shots over the final 28:21 to claim the win. While Dobes’ performance was encouraging, the Canadiens will be hoping that Montembeault’s injury isn’t serious.
Montembeault has been a key player for the Canadiens this season, and his absence would be a significant blow to the team’s chances. The Canadiens’ coaching staff will need to assess Montembeault’s condition and determine whether he’ll be able to start Game 4.
The Capitals, on the other hand, are dealing with their own goaltending questions. Charlie Lindgren, the Capitals’ backup goalie, is set to start Game 4 after Darcy Kuemper was a healthy scratch in Game 3. Lindgren has been solid in his appearances this season, but the Capitals will be hoping he can replicate his regular-season form in the playoffs.
The Capitals’ goaltending situation has been a topic of discussion throughout the series, with Kuemper and Lindgren both vying for the starting role. The Capitals’ coaching staff will be looking for Lindgren to make big saves and help the team secure a win.
Game 4 promises to be an exciting matchup, with both teams looking to take control of the series. The Canadiens will be hoping to build on their momentum from Game 3, while the Capitals will be looking to bounce back and even the series.
The Canadiens’ third-period surge in Game 3 was a testament to their determination and resilience. They’ll need to maintain that level of intensity and focus if they want to come out on top in Game 4.
The goaltending matchup will be a key aspect of Game 4. If Montembeault is able to start for the Canadiens, he’ll need to be at the top of his game to contain the Capitals’ offense. On the other hand, Lindgren will need to make big saves and help the Capitals secure a win.
The goaltending battle will be a crucial factor in determining the outcome of Game 4. Both goalies will need to be sharp and make key saves to help their team emerge victorious.
Game 4 of the Stanley Cup series between the Montreal Canadiens and Washington Capitals promises to be an exciting matchup. Both teams are dealing with goaltending questions, but they’ll need to focus on securing a win to take control of the series. The Canadiens will be hoping to build on their momentum from Game 3, while the Capitals will be looking to bounce back and even the series. With the goaltending matchup being a key aspect of the game, fans can expect a thrilling contest.