Capitals, Hurricanes Clash in Game 1 of Second Round

The Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes are set to begin their second-round NHL playoff series, with both teams coming off dominant first-round performances. Despite Washington's strong regular season home record and having finished with more points than Carolina, the Capitals are considered slight underdogs by betting odds. Star players such as Washington's Connor McMichael, who excelled in the opening round, and Carolina's Andrei Svechnikov, who was highly productive against the Devils, are expected to have significant impacts in Game 1. The Hurricanes lead the league in shot generation and will have Frederik Andersen returning in net. Capitals coach Spencer Carbery noted the value of rest and preparation after advancing quickly, but cautioned that such advantages can be fleeting in the high-pressure playoffs. The series is anticipated to be highly competitive as both teams aim for a spot in the Eastern Conference Final.