Carolina Hurricanes Take 2-1 Series Lead With Andersen Shutout Over Capitals

Frederik Andersen recorded his first postseason shutout in five years, making 21 saves to lead the Carolina Hurricanes to a 4-0 victory over the Washington Capitals in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinals series. The Hurricanes took a 2-1 series lead with key goals from Andrei Svechnikov, who scored his sixth postseason goal, Jack Roslovic on a power play, Eric Robinson, and Jackson Blake. Despite the Capitals having early high-quality scoring chances and an edge in shot attempts, Andersen's strong goaltending, including multiple critical saves on Alex Ovechkin, stifled their offense. The Capitals managed only six shots on goal in the third period and were limited to 10 shots in the final 39 minutes, reflecting Carolina's defensive dominance after Svechnikov's game-opening goal. Roslovic, inserted into the lineup due to an injury, contributed a power-play goal and an assist, helping to deflate the Capitals' momentum late in the second period. The Hurricanes improved their home playoff record to 4-0 and prepared for Game 4 in Raleigh, N.C.