Welcome back to another NHL Predictions. Each day our writers here at Last Word on Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then makes predictions based on how they might play out.

Two weeks since Alex Ovechkin became the NHL's all-time leading goal scorer, he and the Washington Capitals turn their attention to their next challenge as they open the playoffs against the Montreal Canadiens.

The Washington Capitals visit the Montreal Canadiens in Game 3 of the first-round, best-of-7 series in the Stanley Cup Playoffs Friday.