The Carolina Hurricanes dominated their Metro Division archrivals, the Washington Capitals, in Game 1 of their Second Round Stanley Cup Playoff series on Tuesday night.
With Game 2 on Thursday night, Carolina had a golden chance to take a 2-0 series lead back to Raleigh.
Washington wouldn’t let that happen in front of its home fans, largely controlling the second and third periods in a 3-1 Caps victory.
Both teams played to a scoreless first period, in which the Canes generated plenty more scoring chances in, then Washington struck first in the second frame.
Connor McMichael took a Carolina turnover into the offensive zone, skated right in front of Freddie Andersen and fired a wrister home for a 1-0 Caps lead. Just under two minutes into the third period, John Carlson extended Washington’s lead to 2-0 on a powerplay goal.
The Canes finally got another powerplay chance in the third period, capitalizing when Shayne Gostisbehere blasted one just past Caps goalie Logan Thompson. Carolina had a couple solid chances to tie, but Washington ended the game with an empty-netter in the final minute.
The Caps won tonight’s game due to improved offense, but also due to blocking 33 Canes shots. Carolina only blocked 10 Washington shots.
When is Game 3?
The Canes and Caps will battle again on Saturday, May 10 in Raleigh. Opening faceoff from the Lenovo Center is set for 6 p.m.
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