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Capitals look to bounce back against Hurricanes in Game 2
Photo credit: The Washington Post
Down 1-0 in their second-round series, Game 2 is a big one for the Washington Capitals.
The Capitals aim to rebound from their 2-1 overtime loss to the Carolina Hurricanes with a stronger performance in Game 2 on Thursday night.
Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery knows his team can be better in Game 2.
Michael Marzzacco from Stars & Sticks writes that Washington holds a 24-7-1 record in games following a loss this season and is 1-0 after a defeat in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Capitals have also taken three of their last four series after dropping Game 1 at Capital One Arena.
"Game 1 saw the Caps play below their standards, non Caps hockey if you will. Despite this, Washington still had the lead for a good portion of the game. About 25 minutes and also had a power play opportunity early in the third that could've put the Canes on their heels." -Marzzacco
Tom Gulitti reported what Spencer Carbery had to say when asked how his team will respond following a poor outing in Game 1 of the series.
"Yeah, you're disappointed in losing Game 1 at home, but also, we're right there. As good as the Carolina Hurricnaes are, we absolutely can win games and play our best against the Carolina Hurricanes. That is not a doubt in our minds or in our players' minds. So, if you think we're going to be defeated or let down or feel like Game 1 is indicative of the way the series is going to go the whole way, that's not the way that we feel inside these walls. We are going to, and I expect our guys, to play a lot better tonight. That's just the bottom line." -Carbery
To win Game 2, the Capitals must apply sustained pressure in the Hurricanes' zone and step up their physical game after being outhit 45-31 in the series opener.
Game 2 is set for Thursday night at 7:00pm from Capital One Arena.
| POLL | ||
MAI 8 | 15 ANSWERS Capitals look to bounce back against Hurricanes in Game 2 Do you think the Capitals will bounce back and win Game 2 on Thursday night against the Hurricanes. | ||
| yes | 14 | 93.3 % |
| no | 1 | 6.7 % |
| List of polls | ||