Hurricanes Roll Capitals in Game 4, Take 3-1 Series Lead

RALEIGH, N.C. — The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Washington Capitals 5-2 in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Second Round on Monday, taking a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series.

Goals from both Seth Jarvis and Taylor Hall, who each had a goal and an assist, helped secure the win, while Hurricanes goalie Frederik Andersen made 19 saves. Jarvis commented, “It’s nice to see goals go in, and it’s good to contribute offensively and not have to rely on him so much.”

Washington’s Alex Ovechkin also made his mark, scoring a goal and bringing his playoff total to 77, moving him to 12th on the NHL’s all-time postseason goal list. However, Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery noted, “We’re just not executing…and they’re capitalizing.”

Carolina struck first, with Shayne Gostisbehere scoring at 10:24 of the first period. The Hurricanes later killed off two penalties, including a critical double minor that came at a pivotal moment in the game.

Jarvis extended the lead to 2-0 early in the second period, and Hall added another goal shortly after, showcasing offensive depth. “I just picked my corner and it was a good shot,” said Hall, reflecting on his breakaway goal.

The Capitals did respond, narrowing the gap to 2-1, but Carolina quickly regained momentum with Hall’s goal at 8:24 in the third period, making it 3-1. Walker then added another for the Hurricanes, making the score 4-2 before Andrei Svechnikov sealed the win with an empty-net goal.

As the series heads into Game 5 at Capital One Arena on Thursday, Carolina, undefeated at home this postseason, looks to finish the series against the top-seeded Capitals. Coach Rod Brind’Amour expressed confidence but acknowledged areas for improvement.

The Hurricanes now have the upper hand, aiming to close out the series after having bested the New Jersey Devils in the first round.