Tom Wilson’s physical approach to hockey again took center stage as the Washington Capitals defeated the Montreal Canadiens 5-2 in Game 4, moving within one win of advancing to the second round. Wilson’s controversial hit on Canadiens defenseman Alexandre Carrier midway through the third period was the turning point.

Montreal Canadiens' Josh Anderson (17) falls into the Washington Capitals' bench as he fights with Capitals' Tom Wilson (43) following the second period of Game 3 of a first-round NHL hockey playoff series in Montreal, Friday, April 25, 2025. (Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press via AP) AP

The Washington Capitals admittedly got away from their game on Friday in a disappointing, uncharacteristic and emotional Game 3 loss to the Montreal Canadiens. Now, they will aim to retake the tempo of the series and tilt the ice back in Game 4.