Capitals fall to Hurricanes in a close first game
The Washington Capitals suffered an overtime loss to the Carolina Hurricanes with a score of 2-1 in the first game of the series, evidencing a close match. Despite the score, the feeling in the capital’s team is one of dissatisfaction.
It wasn’t good, and that’s the bottom line. Our overall game wasn’t good.
Spencer Carbery, Capitals coach
Coach Carbery, whose team eliminated the Montreal Canadiens in the first round of the playoffs, emphasized the need for changes for the second game, mentioning tactical adjustments and physical intensity.
Carolina executed a game plan based on pressure and shot volume, accumulating 94 shot attempts and 33 shots on goal. In contrast, the Capitals barely registered 34 attempts.
Alex Ovechkin, a key figure for the Capitals, only managed one shot on goal, his lowest figure so far in the postseason. The lack of collective play was evident, according to statements by Dylan Strome.
We didn’t play our style of hockey tonight. We let them dictate the game.
Dylan Strome, Capitals forward
Aliaksei Protas scored the Capitals’ only goal, but took responsibility for the play that led to overtime. A failed pass to Alex Alexeyev resulted in a turnover that allowed Logan Stankoven to score the tying goal. Jaccob Slavin sealed the victory for the Hurricanes in overtime.
Start by being on the same page, and I don’t think we were today.
Aliaksei Protas, Capitals forward
Carolina’s coach, Rod Brind’Amour, highlighted his team’s determination, which was rewarded with the victory. The second game is shaping up to be crucial, with the Capitals promising to improve their performance.
It seemed like we weren’t quite right all night.
Tom Wilson, Capitals forward
Wilson added that the team didn’t expect an easy path in the playoffs and that the next game is the most important.
