In a heated first-round playoff series, the NHL fined both the Montreal Canadiens and Washington Capitals $25,000 each for player misconduct during warmups before Game 4, adding to previous fines in the series. The teams have engaged in increasingly aggressive play, with 37 penalties issued so far, and Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis voiced frustration over the officiating. The Capitals lead the series 3-1 after winning Game 4, and they may see forward Aliaksei Protas return for Game 5, enhancing their chances as the series continues.
