The Carolina Hurricanes twice found their two-goal margin halved in the third period of their latest playoff game with the Washington Capitals. Each time they found a prompt response.

For part of Monday night, the Washington Capitals stunk. For other parts, they tried desperately to remain with the Carolina Hurricanes — and just about did. But think about that for a second. It feels as if the Capitals are merely trying to hold on to this second-round Stanley Cup playoff series with the tips of their fingernails as the Hurricanes rip it away from them.

The Washington Capitals lost to the Carolina Hurricanes, 5-2, on Monday night to fall behind 3-1 in the second-round playoff series.

Getting contributions up and down the lineup, the Carolina Hurricanes put forth a formidable team effort Monday, when they skated

The Carolina Hurricanes find themselves just one game away from the Eastern Conference Final after taking a 3-1 series lead against the Washington Capitals

Washington Capitals' Connor McMichael (24) controls the puck with Carolina Hurricanes' Eric Robinson (50) in pursuit during the third period of Game 3 of an NHL hockey Semi-final round playoff series in Raleigh, N.C., Saturday, May 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Karl DeBlaker) AP

After a 4-0 win in Game 3 on Saturday night, the Carolina Hurricanes are looking to take both games at home against the Washington Capitals. The two teams face off in Game 4