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3d ago

Hurricanes Advance to Eastern Finals with Defensive Dominance Over Capitals

Carolina clinched the series in five games, highlighted by Andrei Svechnikov’s late goal and Alexander Nikishin’s NHL debut amid Jalen Chatfield’s injury.

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Overview

  • The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Washington Capitals 3-1 in Game 5, securing their spot in the Eastern Conference finals for the second time in three years.
  • Andrei Svechnikov scored the game-winning goal with 1:59 remaining, while Seth Jarvis added an empty-net goal to seal the victory.
  • Rookie defenseman Alexander Nikishin made his NHL debut, logging 10.5 minutes of ice time and earning praise from teammates and coach Rod Brind’Amour for his composure.
  • Carolina’s defensive system stifled Washington throughout the series, limiting the Capitals to under 20 shots per game and neutralizing their offensive stars.
  • Despite breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record earlier this season, Alex Ovechkin and the Capitals were eliminated in the second round, with Ovechkin expected to return for the 2025-26 season under his current contract.