The Washington Capitals are facing a crucial Game 2 against the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs. After a narrow 2-1 overtime loss in Game 1, the Capitals aim to level the series at home. Carolina enters as a -135 favorite, while Washington is a +115 underdog. The total goals line is set at 5.5, with the Hurricanes favored by -1.5 on the puck line.

The SportsLine Projection Model, which has a profitable track record, predicts that the Capitals will cover the puck line in over 80% of simulations. With the last two meetings decided by a single goal, fans can expect another tight contest. Alex Ovechkin and his teammates will look to ramp up their offensive pressure against the Hurricanes' defense.

The second round of the NHL playoffs is heating up with all series underway. The Washington Capitals face the Carolina Hurricanes tonight after losing Game 1 in overtime. The odds have significantly shifted in favor of the Hurricanes, reflecting their strong performance in Game 1 where they allowed only 14 shots. Meanwhile, the Vegas Golden Knights will host the Edmonton Oilers in another pivotal Game 2 after the Oilers secured a victory in their first matchup. Connor McDavid continues to impress, moving up the ranks in Oilers playoff history, while Mark Stone's scoring prowess for the Knights remains a key factor.

As the playoffs progress, players like Jaccob Slavin, who netted the winning goal last game, and Edmonton's Evan Bouchard, who has been critical for his team's defense, are vital to keep an eye on. In terms of fantasy implications, Alex Ovechkin's recent struggles could be concerning for those relying on him, while players like Mitch Marner and Mikko Rantanen are proving to be clutch in crucial moments, making them must-starts as the playoffs unfold.

The Washington Capitals faced a tough start to their playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes, suffering a 2-1 overtime loss in Game 1. The Capitals took the lead thanks to Aliaksei Protas' goal early in the second period, but the Hurricanes equalized with Logan Stankoven's strike in the third. Jaccob Slavin's game-winner in overtime sealed the fate for Washington, with the Canes dominating the shot count 33-14. Capitals' goaltender Logan Thompson made 31 saves, while Frederik Andersen made a successful return to stop 13 of 14 shots.

Tom Wilson added some drama during a stoppage by playfully snatching Sebastian Aho's mouth guard before returning it under the watchful eye of officials. In the aftermath, Wilson remained optimistic, emphasizing the team's experience and resilience despite the setback. Coach Spencer Carbery was less than pleased, labeling the performance as underwhelming and signaling the need for changes ahead of Game 2.

The Carolina Hurricanes edged out the Washington Capitals 2-1 in an intense overtime battle to take Game 1 of their second-round playoff series. Jaccob Slavin notched the overtime winner, beating Logan Thompson from just inside the blue line, while Frederik Andersen made a successful return, allowing only one goal and making 13 saves.

The game shifted momentum midway through the third period when Logan Stankoven scored after a costly turnover by the Capitals, igniting Carolina's comeback. The Hurricanes dominated the offense, outshooting the Capitals 33 to 14, while their perfect penalty kill kept Washington's power play at bay.

Andersen's return was crucial for Carolina, who improved their postseason record to 4-1. The series continues with Game 2 in Washington, where both teams will look to assert their dominance.

In a closely contested Game 1 of the second round, the Carolina Hurricanes edged the Washington Capitals 2-1, showcasing their tenacity and determination to win. Jaccob Slavin's late overtime goal, his shot navigating through a crowded crease, was the decisive moment of the match. The Hurricanes maintained a high shot volume, firing 94 attempts with 33 on goal, while their defense limited the Capitals to just 14 shots, marking one of the lowest outputs in franchise history.

Frederik Andersen, returning from injury, allowed only one goal from Aliaksei Protas, while making crucial saves as the game progressed. Washington struggled to find their rhythm, with Dylan Strome acknowledging that they let Carolina dictate play. Despite a strong showing from Capitals goaltender Logan Thompson, who made 31 saves, the Hurricanes' aggressive style overwhelmed the home team, setting the stage for their upcoming matches in the series.