The Capitals better start finishing their scoring chances the way they did during the regular season if they plan to push this series against the Hurricanes beyond Game 5 at Capital One Arena on Thursday (7 p.m. ET; MAX, truTV, TNT, SN, TVAS).

The Washington Capitals aren't in panic mode yet, but they feel a sense of urgency as they look to even the series and get back on track against the Carolina Hurricanes on Monday.

Alex Ovechkin leads the Washington Capitals against the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 4 of a series the ‘Canes lead 2-1.

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

The prevailing theory ahead of the best-of-seven set was that it would be a long one, and if Washington wants its season to continue, it will be. But Carolina has earned its advantage, not necessarily through singular starring performances - Frederik Andersen notwithstanding, we'll get to him - but through production from everywhere in the lineup.

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.