Carolina Hurricanes Shut Out Washington Capitals 4-0 Take 2-1 Series Lead

The Carolina Hurricanes secured a commanding 4-0 victory over the Washington Capitals in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Second Round, taking a 2-1 lead in the series. Frederik Andersen was the standout performer, recording a 21-save shutout and posting the best save percentage and goals-against average in the NHL playoffs, with his effort described as possibly his best game as a Hurricane. Andrei Svechnikov opened the scoring in the second period by capitalizing on a faceoff win, followed by power-play goals from Jack Roslovic and Jackson Blake, as well as a breakaway goal from Eric Robinson. The Hurricanes' power play was notably effective, scoring twice in this game and totaling nine power-play goals over eight playoff games, the best in the NHL. The Capitals struggled to generate offense, managing only 10 shots in the final 39 minutes and failing to penetrate Andersen’s defense. The series now shifts to Game 4 in Raleigh, with the Capitals under pressure to avoid falling into a 3-1 deficit.