The Washington Capitals had waited a long time for this. Still, the Capitals’ celebration following their series-clinching 4-1 win against the Montreal Canadiens in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference First Round at Capital One Arena on Wednesday was subdued and fitting of a team with bigger expectations in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

The Washington Capitals are heading to the second round for the first time since 2018 after a Game 5 victory against the Montreal Canadiens.

Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes, longtime division rivals, will square off in a second-round playoff series beginning in Washington, DC.