Simon Nemec clinched a thrilling 3-2 victory for the New Jersey Devils over the Carolina Hurricanes during Game 3 of their playoff series, scoring just 2:36 into the second overtime. The win marks an important rebound for the Devils, who had lost the first two games of the series. Nico Hischier and Dawson Mercer contributed with goals during regulation, while Jacob Markstrom made 25 saves, showcasing his steadfast presence in the net. For the Hurricanes, goals from Seth Jarvis and Sebastian Aho kept them competitive, but they ultimately fell short in a gripping overtime.

New Jersey's victory also highlighted their offensive resilience, as Mercer’s third-period goal had initially extended their lead to 2-0. However, the Hurricanes rallied with power-play goals from Jarvis and Aho to tie the game, showcasing their ability to respond under pressure. With Game 4 looming, the playoff intensity is only expected to escalate.

In a competitive playoff matchup, the Carolina Hurricanes took a commanding 2-0 series lead against the New Jersey Devils with a 3-1 victory. Jordan Martinook's shorthanded goal in the second period shifted momentum in favor of Carolina, contributing to their strategic advantage. Frederik Andersen stood tall in goal, making 25 saves and maintaining control defensively throughout the game.

Seth Jarvis sealed the game with an empty-netter, while Shayne Gostisbehere also found the net, showcasing the Hurricanes' depth. Jesper Bratt managed to score for the Devils, but New Jersey struggled without key defensemen Luke Hughes and Brenden Dillon. The series now shifts to Newark for Game 3, where the Devils will aim to rebound against a resilient Hurricanes squad.

The Carolina Hurricanes made a strong playoff debut, decisively defeating the New Jersey Devils 4-1 in Game 1 of their first-round series. Logan Stankoven shined in his playoff debut, scoring two goals that helped solidify the Hurricanes' control throughout the game. Carolina took an early lead with Jalen Chatfield's first-period goal, followed by Stankoven's contributions in the second period, including a power-play goal that extended their lead to 3-0. The Hurricanes outshot New Jersey 45-24, with goaltender Frederik Andersen making 23 saves, including several crucial stops during tense moments.

Despite losing seven of their last eight regular-season games, the Hurricanes effectively utilized their time to rest key players in preparation for the playoffs. Coach Rod Brind’Amour's strategy paid off, as the team appeared healthy and ready to match the Devils' intensity. The Devils managed to score once, with Nico Hischier finding the net, but it was not enough to stem the flow of Carolina's offensive attack. The Hurricanes now look to build on this momentum as they prepare for Game 2 on Tuesday.

In a thrilling matchup, Tom Wilson netted his 33rd goal of the season, helping the Washington Capitals clinch the top seed in the Eastern Conference with a 5-4 shootout victory over the Carolina Hurricanes. The Capitals fought back from a 2-0 deficit and briefly held a 4-2 lead before conceding two late goals in the third period. Pierre-Luc Dubois clinched the shootout victory while Charlie Lindgren made key saves, including a perfect shootout performance. Alex Ovechkin, who recently celebrated breaking Wayne Gretzky's goal record, contributed with an assist, marking his 26th assist of the season.

The Hurricanes continue to struggle, losing their fourth straight game. Coach Rod Brind'Amour may need to evaluate his goaltending situation with Frederik Andersen showing inconsistencies as the playoffs approach. With the Capitals hitting their stride, they aim to build on this momentum heading into the postseason.

Alex Ovechkin is closing in on Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goal record, netting his 892nd goal during a tough 5-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. Ovechkin's performance was overshadowed by the team's struggles, as he found himself denied several times by Carolina’s goaltender, Frederik Andersen. Despite the loss, Ovechkin's goal puts him just two away from tying Gretzky, with hopes to break the record later this season.

This season, Ovechkin has been on a scoring tear with 39 goals thus far, aiming for a 14th season with at least 40 goals, a record in itself. His ability to produce even after suffering an injury highlights his determination and skill. The Capitals, currently leading the Eastern Conference, have seven games remaining, providing Ovechkin ample opportunity to chase history.