Hurricanes Blank Capitals in Game 3 as Andersen Shines and Svechnikov Sparks Surge

The Carolina Hurricanes took a 2-1 lead in their second-round playoff series against the Washington Capitals with a commanding 4-0 shutout victory on Saturday night. Andrei Svechnikov opened the scoring midway through the second period by capitalizing on a loose puck off the faceoff and beating Logan Thompson.

The goal marked Svechnikov’s sixth of the postseason and ignited Carolina’s momentum. Goalie Frederik Andersen played a crucial role with 21 saves to secure the team’s perfect home playoff record so far.

Hurricanes Dominate Second and Third Periods with Relentless Pressure and Special Teams Success

After Svechnikov’s goal broke the scoreless deadlock, the Hurricanes continued their offensive push. Jack Roslovic extended the lead with a power-play goal late in the second period. Carolina didn’t let up, controlling puck possession and pace. Their efforts were rewarded as they steadily wore down the Capitals’ defense, taking advantage of special teams and seizing complete control of the game.

In the third period, Eric Robinson scored early to make it 3-0 with an aggressive drive up the left side. Jackson Blake then capped the night with another power-play goal near the post. Carolina’s relentless pressure, particularly in the second and third periods, left Washington with little room to respond. The Hurricanes outshot and outskated the Capitals, clearly capitalizing on home-ice advantage.

Andersen’s Brilliance and Capitals’ Collapse Define Turning Point in Game Three Battle

Frederik Andersen’s performance stood out, especially in the early stages when Washington tested him with high-danger chances from Tom Wilson and Taylor Raddysh. His steady presence gave Carolina time to find their rhythm before the offensive breakout.

Head coach Rod Brind’Amour praised Andersen, calling it one of his best performances in a Hurricanes uniform. The Capitals only managed 10 shots over the final 39-plus minutes, a testament to both Carolina’s defense and Andersen’s calm under pressure.

Despite a strong start, the Capitals lost their edge once they trailed. Head coach Spencer Carbery noted that their puck movement deteriorated as the game progressed. Washington’s inability to regain control after falling behind 1-0 proved costly. Goalie Logan Thompson ended with 24 saves but received little support offensively. The Capitals will look to regroup for Game 4, scheduled for Monday night in Raleigh, as they try to even the series once again.