Capitals vs. Hurricanes Game 4 Preview

by Wesley Hunt · Published April 18, 2019 · Updated April 18, 2019

Flustered by their defeat in Game 3, the Washington Capitals look to rebound against the Carolina Hurricanes for the next game. Despite the embarrassing 5-0 loss in the last game, they still hold a 2-1 series lead and are prepared for the next game. PNC Arena has been brutal to visitors all year, so the Caps must learn to adjust and play stronger defense this time.

Notable events in the last game include Alex Ovechkin sending Carolina rookie Alex Svechnikov into concussion protocol. A fight in the first period led to some ugly blows and exchanges. The Caps lost the rhythm they had for the first three games and failed to even make a shot on goal for the majority of the game. Though Braden Holtby did allow an uncharacteristic five goals, his forty saves were impressive and the most he has recorded in a losing playoff effort.

The Caps are 1-9 in Game 3 of a best-of-seven series when holding a 2-0 lead. Their only win in this fashion came in 2016 against the Flyers, a series which they would ultimately win 4-2. Though they are a much better 3-6 in Game 4’s, including the Conference Finals against Tampa last year. With an experienced core and weaknesses on their defense adjusted, the Caps are ready to go in Game 4.