Capitals vs. Hurricanes Game 6 Preview

by Wesley Hunt · April 22, 2019

The Washington Capitals know how hard a playoff series can be, so a Game 6 comes as familiar territory. As they return to Raleigh to face the Carolina Hurricanes, they are prepared to slug it out. With five games finished, the home team has won every game in the series so far. If the Caps are to defend their title, a statement win on the road would be a benefit to their new campaign. A 6-0 win at home was fine, but they need to play just as strong tonight if they want to take the series.

Last night, the Caps became just the fourth team overall to record a six-goal game in five consecutive playoff series. The loss of TJ Oshie to injury was severe, but only seemed to motivate the team more. As Alex Ovechkin and Nick Backstrom both scored a power play goal, the second line of Vrana-Hagelin-Kuznetsov kept the puck in hand. Braden Holtby’s thirty saves in the shutout was an impressive stat on its own, and made the win even better for the home crowd. With this win, the Caps have the momentum headed into tonight’s game. Carolina is still dealing with their own injuries. Despite claims he would return, Andrei Svechnikov was not listed for tonight’s game. His absence is felt as Carolina continues to lack serious depth.

While the Capitals were a bit slow in the first four games, they came alive in Game 5. One more win will secure their position in Round 2. While a date with the Islanders may seem promising in the next round, they have to take things one game at a time. Tonight, Carolina is the big opponent. All hands need to be on deck for this showdown, as it may seal the deal this time.