In Washington, DC, the Capitals took a 2-1 win over the Montreal Canadiens and secured the Metropolitan Division title in the process.
Braden Holtby made 33 saves to get the win.
Lars Eller had a goal for the Capitals – file photo by Lewis Bleiman
“It’s certainly been a battle right up until the 81st game until it’s decided,” Caps head coach Todd Reirden said. “I’m really proud of our team. Going through some ups and downs during the season and eventually winning out is a big accomplishment for our team and obviously the home-ice advantage, love playing here, love the fans.”
The race for the title was settled with the Caps three points clear of second place New York Islanders.
Lars Eller and Nic Dowd scored for Washington.
The Habs needed the win; they have one game remaining and need the Columbus Blue Jackets to lose. Both teams are tied bu the Jackets have a game in hand and own tie breakers.
“It’s not over yet,” Montreal captain Shea Weber said. “We’ll see what happens in [Columbus’] next two games, and if we can win Saturday and for whatever reason get some good fate, we’ll be in.”
Weber was the Canadiens’ only goal scorer.
“I think we did pretty good on their zone entries,” Capitals defenseman Nick Jensen said. “I think our D had a lot of good sticks keep them from entering the zone without dumping the puck in.”
[WATCH: All Canadiens at Capitals highlights]
Carey Price made 29 saves in the loss.
“It was definitely one of those playoff-type games and I thought overall we played pretty well,” Price said. “Holtby played great.”
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