Alex Ovechkin was at the centre of the hockey world this season as he broke Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record.

But two players he’ll be facing in the first round of the playoffs aren’t feeling star-struck.

“Doesn’t matter, couldn’t care less,” Laine said.

“I love Malkin much better,” was Demidov’s answer.

The Capitals enter the series as the Eastern Conference’s No. 1 seed while the Canadiens snuck into the playoffs with an impressive push in the final two months of the season.

While the teams are on opposite ends of the standings, it’s clear the Canadiens have plenty of confidence heading into the clash.

You can watch Game 1 between the Canadiens and Capitals Monday night at 7 p.m. ET/ 4 p.m. PT on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.