Washington “Jerks” beat Carolina “Jerks” 3-2: Playoffs baby!
The Washington Capitals took on the Carolina Hurricanes in a pivotal late season game, and the Capitals prevailed by a score of 3-2. With the win, Washington clinches a spot in the playoffs to defend their title. Washington net-minder, Braden Holtby, records his 30th win of the 2018/19 campaign.
First Period
Carolina kicked off the scoring five minutes into the game with a bit of an odd goal. Carolina forward, Nino Niederreiter, found a puck in front of Holtby’s net and tucked it between the pad and the post to give the Canes the lead.
Less than a minute later, the Capitals responded with a gorgeous goal of their own. Forward, Brett Connolly, stickhandled around Carolina’s defender and deposited the puck in the back of the net to tie things up at one.
The rest of the period consisted of back and forth play, but both goalies were up to the task.
Second Period
The second period was a continuation of last period’s play with chances for both teams but no results. With a little over eight minutes remaining in the second, Canes forward, Warren Foegele, undressed the Capitals, Nick Jensen, and beat Holtby to the post. Truly a stunning goal to see, even if it was against the good guys in white.
Third Period
Less than two minutes into the third period, a beautiful break out orchestrated by Christian Djoos lead to a tantalizing Jakub Vrana goal that beat the goalie five-hole to even the score two.
With time winding down, the fourth line delivered the final blow. After a strong possession, a Jensen shot from the point was deflected by Nic Dowd to put the Capitals up for good.
Great Eight Thoughts
- The Capitals were pretty resilient in this game, even after missing T.J. Oshie and Michal Kempny due to injury and sickness, which made for a tough match up tonight. The big test comes Saturday against the Lightening.
- In a potential playoff matchup, I thought the Capitals did well neutralizing Carolina’s speed. I would love to see this matchup come April.
- I am a little bit worried about Washington’s defensive depth with Kempny out. We should hear news about him soon.
- Ovechkin is still one goal away from 50 goals with four games remaining, so fingers crossed.
- I did not love Washington’s line shuffling in tonight’s game. I would prefer to see a little continuity in lines, but recent ailments have made that tough.
- Kuzy’s play continues to get better and he is heating up at the perfect time. 31 points in the last 30 games is what we need out of an elite center like Kuzy.
- The Capitals out-chanced the Hurricanes all game, but we need to see more pucks going into the net.
- Just please beat the Lightening on Saturday. Do it for Kempny.
