"It's just part of it": Brendan Gallagher makes feelings known about Alex Alexeyev's cross check in game vs. Capitals

Modified Apr 22, 2025 04:41 GMT

NHL: Chicago Blackhawks at Montreal Canadiens - Source: Imagn — Brendan Gallagher makes feelings known about Alex Alexeyev's cross check in game vs. Capitals - Source: Imagn

Montreal Canadiens forward Brendan Gallagher shared his thoughts on a cross-check to the face by the Washington Capitals defenseman Alex Alexeyev during Game 1 of their first-round playoff series on Monday.

Alexeyev avoided a penalty despite delivering a cross-check to Brendan Gallagher's face. The Habs forward recoiled in pain, but the referee did make a call on the play.

Here's a video of the play:

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In a post-game media interview, Brendan Gallagher described the incident as part of the game, noting that such physicality is expected during the playoffs. When asked if he was surprised by the non-call or had seen a similar cross-check, Gallagher said (0:29):

Of course not. It's just part of it. This time of year you just don't expect power plays. I'll be back there, and just part of the game."

Meanwhile, the first game of the series between the Montreal Canadiens and the Washington Capitals was a physically intense contest. Although the Caps dominated much of the game, the Canadiens put up a strong fight, pushing the game into overtime, where they ultimately fell 3-2.

Brendan Gallagher and Habs lose Game 1 to Caps

The Washington Capitals, having the home-ice advantage, hosted the Montreal Canadiens at Capital One for Game 1 on Monday.

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Alex Ovechkin opened the scoring for the hosts after putting them ahead with a power-play goal at 18:34 into the first period. This was the lone goal scored in that period. Anthony Beauvillier increased the Caps' lead to 2-0 at 12:09 into the second period.

The Canadiens clawed their way back into the game in the final period. Cole Caufield cut the deficit to 2-1 after scoring on the power play at 10:32 before Nick Suzuki's goal at 15:45 tied the game and forced overtime.

Ovechkin scored his first career Stanley Cup playoff overtime winner at 2:26 of the extra period, securing a 3-2 win for the Caps over the Canadiens in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series. Ovi notched three points through two goals and an assist in the opener.

Game 2 returns to Capital One Arena on Wednesday, with the puck scheduled to drop at 7 p.m. ET.

Also Read: Patrik Laine 'couldn't care less' about facing Alex Ovechkin in Capitals vs Canadiens Round 1 battle

About the author

Abhishek is an NHL writer at Sportskeeda with over 2 years of sports reporting experience and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Delhi. He became a fan of ice hockey after watching NHL fight videos on YouTube, which led to him professionally writing about the sport and his continued interest in all things hockey.

A fan of the Boston Bruins, Abhishek considers their incredible comeback win against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2013 playoffs as the most iconic moment in the NHL. His admiration for the six-time Stanley Cup winners also comes from the team’s storied history, distinctive black and gold uniform and their success in the sport. His all-time favorite NHL players are Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid, for their ability to perform at the highest level consistently.

Abhishek ensures his reporting is fair and balanced by being well-researched in his details, which he expects to be relevant, up-to-date and in line with ethical standards. His specialties are doing detailed match analysis and covering fan reactions.

Abhishek enjoys music, traveling and going on walks with his three German Shepherds in his free time, along with learning about horticulture.

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Edited by Abhishek Dilta