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.

The Capitals beat the Canadiens on Wednesday night to advance in the Stanley Cup playoffs, their first series win since capturing the Stanley Cup in 2018.