### Hurricanes Dominate Capitals in Game 3, Taking 2-1 Series Lead The Carolina Hurricanes showcased a commanding performance in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Washington Capitals, winning 4-0 and taking a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series. This victory marked a significant rebound for the Hurricanes after losing Game 2 in Washington. The game was played at the PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina, where the Hurricanes capitalized on home ice advantage, with veteran goaltender Frederik Andersen earning his first postseason shutout in five years, making 21 saves throughout the match. The Hurricanes' offense was bolstered by key contributions from Andrei Svechnikov and Jack Roslovic, who each scored pivotal goals in the second period, helping to secure the win [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6346901/2025/05/10/hurricanes-capitals-nhl-playoffs-2025-game-3-takeaways][https://www.reuters.com/sports/nhl/frederik-andersens-shutout-gains-canes-game-3-win-over-caps-2025-05-11]. ### Game Breakdown and Key Highlights 1. **Game Overview**: - The Hurricanes took a 2-1 series lead with a decisive 4-0 victory. - Frederik Andersen recorded a shutout, marking a significant achievement in his playoff career. 2. **Scoring Summary**: - **First Period**: The game remained scoreless, with both teams exchanging chances but failing to capitalize. - **Second Period**: - Andrei Svechnikov scored the first goal, taking advantage of a loose puck after a faceoff. - Jack Roslovic followed up with a power-play goal, extending the lead to 2-0. - **Third Period**: The Hurricanes added two more goals, solidifying their dominance. 3. **Player Performances**: - **Frederik Andersen**: 21 saves, first shutout in five years. - **Andrei Svechnikov**: Scored his sixth goal of the postseason. - **Jack Roslovic**: Contributed with a goal and an assist, having previously been a healthy scratch. 4. **Capitals' Struggles**: - Despite a strong start and several high-danger chances, the Capitals could not find the back of the net. - Goaltender Logan Thompson made 24 saves but faced a relentless Hurricanes offense. ### Statistical Insights and Performance Metrics - **Shots on Goal**: - Hurricanes: 28 - Capitals: 24 - **High-Danger Chances**: - Capitals had a 10-3 edge in high-danger chances during the second period, but Andersen's performance thwarted their efforts. - **Power Plays**: - The Hurricanes capitalized on one of their power-play opportunities, showcasing their efficiency in critical moments [https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/45089217/carolina-hurricanes-blank-washington-capitals-take-2-1-lead][https://www.nhl.com/news/roslovic-sparks-hurricanes-to-win-in-game-3]. ### Conclusion: A Turning Point in the Series The Hurricanes' victory in Game 3 not only gives them a 2-1 lead in the series but also demonstrates their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. Key players like Frederik Andersen and Andrei Svechnikov stepped up when it mattered most, setting the stage for a potentially pivotal Game 4. The Capitals will need to regroup and address their offensive shortcomings if they hope to even the series again. 1. **Hurricanes' Dominance**: The shutout reflects their strong defensive and goaltending performance. 2. **Key Players**: Contributions from Svechnikov and Roslovic were crucial in turning the tide. 3. **Capitals' Challenges**: Despite early chances, they failed to convert, highlighting areas for improvement. The next game will be critical for both teams as they look to assert their dominance in this tightly contested playoff series [https://apnews.com/article/capitals-hurricanes-score-70c3b79dccaecf528689c846ad2a24fd][https://www.nhl.com/hurricanes/news/recap-andersen-shines-as-canes-blank-caps].