Overview
- Alex Tuch, who scored twice in the first period Friday night, gave Washington an early 3-0 lead and finished the opener as a game-changing presence.
- Goalie Logan Thompson made 31 saves and delivered a steady performance that let the Capitals absorb late pressure and close out the 5-2 victory.
- Carolina’s starter Brandon Bussi misplayed a puck behind the net and was credited with several soft goals, and teammates and coach Rod Brind’Amour said the team was outplayed and looked lethargic.
- The Hurricanes converted just one of six power-play chances in the game, a trend that compounds concerns after their 1-0 overtime loss earlier in the week and leaves both teams to regroup for back-to-back road games Saturday night.
- Tuch joined Washington in a sign-and-trade from Buffalo on an eight-year, $84 million deal and his multi-goal debut places him among a short list of Capitals with big first games, which could shape Washington’s early-season momentum.