As a Canadiens fan, that one hurt.

Game 1 of the playoffs was just as intense as we expected, but it ended in disappointment. The Montreal Canadiens made a brave comeback from being down by two goals, only to lose 3–2 in overtime to the Washington Capitals, thanks to Alex Ovechkin scoring his first career playoff overtime goal. Of course it had to be him.

The Canadiens started off a bit slow, having trouble with Washington’s pressure. The Caps jumped out to a 2–0 lead, and it seemed like we might be in for a rough night. But to their credit, the Habs showed that toughness we’ve come to love.

Cole Caufield got us on the board and brought some energy back to the team. Then Nick Suzuki scored the equalizer in the third period, pushing us into overtime. Suddenly, it felt like we were riding a wave of momentum.

We were just a lucky bounce away from taking Game 1 on their turf. But then, in overtime, Ovechkin found some space and finished it with a quick shot, leaving every Canadiens fan silent. 3–2. Game over. Series 1–0 Caps.

Even with the loss, there are positives to build on:

Samuel Montembeault played great in goal, making 29 saves and keeping us in it long enough to reach OT.Lane Hutson keeps impressing us with his calmness under pressure.Caufield and Suzuki did what they do best: showed up in clutch moments.

This series isn’t over yet. Game 2 is Wednesday night at Capital One Arena. If the Habs can tighten up early and avoid penalties, we could split the series in Washington.

Heads up, Habs fans. We’ve got a team that doesn’t quit. Let’s bounce back strong.

Go Habs Go. 🔴⚪🔵