With Washington Capitals Head Coach Dale Hunter accusing the Boston Bruins of going after center Nicklas Backstrom's head during the playoff series, it was only a matter of time before Bruins head coach Claude Julien was going to vehemently deny those accusations.

Julien said it was "ludicrous" for anyone to suggest the Bruins were head-hunting Backstrom. He said none of the 30 coaches would do that.

— Ted Starkey (@TedStarkey) April 18, 2012

Of course Julien would never admit to doing that intentionally. The Capitals now have to put supreme focus in tying the series at two games each on Thursday so that Saturday's game in Boston doesn't have to be an elimination game.

We'll have plenty more on these games and the rest of the 2012 NHL Playoffs on SB Nation D.C., so keep it locked to this StoryStream for all the latest news and updates. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, please head over to Japers' Rink. For the opponent's perspective all series, check out Stanley Cup of Chowder. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.