In a high-stakes playoff matchup, the Carolina Hurricanes twice saw their two-goal lead narrowed by the Washington Capitals in the third period. Each time, the Hurricanes responded quickly with goals that halted the Capitals’ momentum. These critical counters helped secure a 5-2 victory on Monday night, pushing Carolina to a 3-1 lead in their second-round playoff series and moving them within one win of the Eastern Conference finals.
Hall and Walker’s Timely Goals Break Capitals’ Momentum, Keep Hurricanes in Control
Key plays by Taylor Hall and Sean Walker were the turning points of the game. Hall scored just minutes after Washington’s first goal, and Walker followed with a goal shortly after Alex Ovechkin’s power-play score. Both players not only contributed with goals but also assisted each other, highlighting their chemistry.
These responses came at crucial moments, breaking Washington’s attempts to build sustained pressure and keeping Carolina in control.
Hurricanes Answer Every Capitals Surge to Seize 3-1 Series Lead and Edge Closer to Conference FinalsTaylor Hall’s breakaway goal was a result of veteran instinct. After falling in the offensive zone, he stayed alert and capitalized on a defensive lapse by Washington, which lost track of him. Jack Roslovic’s long pass sprung Hall for a clean break, and he finished the play with precision. The goal reestablished a two-goal cushion just minutes after the Capitals had cut the lead, reflecting Hall’s experience and sharp awareness.
Walker’s Timely Goal Silences Capitals’ Rally and Secures Crucial Hurricanes Playoff Victory
Washington briefly reignited the crowd with Ovechkin’s 5-on-3 blast, but Sean Walker’s response was decisive. In a chaotic sequence, he recovered the puck after a Washington defender lost his stick and used his patience to create a quality scoring chance. His first career postseason goal at the 16:45 mark of the third period effectively ended Washington’s comeback hopes, giving Carolina a 4-2 lead that proved insurmountable.
Despite a strong start, including early threats from Connor McMichael and Aliaksei Protas, the Capitals struggled to convert. Their power play faltered, managing just one shot in a four-minute stretch, and Carolina’s top-ranked penalty kill remained dominant.
Andrei Svechnikov sealed the game with an empty-net goal, while Capitals coach Spencer Carbery lamented missed opportunities and costly errors. Carolina’s poise and timely execution ultimately made the difference.
