Canes oust Caps in G5 on Svechnikov's late goal

Hurricanes Triumph Over Capitals in Game 5 Thriller
Carolina Advances to Eastern Conference Final with Svechnikov’s Clutch Goal
In a heart-pounding finish at Capital One Arena, the Carolina Hurricanes clinched a 3-1 victory over the Washington Capitals in Game 5 on May 15, 2025, securing their spot in the Eastern Conference Final. Andrei Svechnikov’s late goal with just 1:59 remaining proved to be the dagger, ending the Capitals’ season and propelling Carolina to their second conference final appearance in three years. This electrifying playoff clash showcased the Hurricanes’ resilience and depth, setting the stage for an exciting postseason run.
A Tense Battle from Start to Finish
The second-round series between the Hurricanes and Capitals was a gritty, physical affair, but Game 5 delivered the intensity fans crave. Both teams traded blows in a tightly contested match, with stellar goaltending and stingy defense keeping the score close. Carolina struck first in the opening period when captain Jordan Staal notched his first playoff goal, giving the Hurricanes an early edge. Washington responded with an unassisted tally from Anthony Beauvillier, knotting the game at 1-1.
The second period saw near-misses for both sides. Washington’s Matt Roy thought he had scored, only for the goal to be waved off due to an offside call. Moments later, Carolina’s Seth Jarvis rattled both the crossbar and post, coming agonizingly close to breaking the deadlock. As the clock ticked down in the third, the game seemed destined for overtime—until Svechnikov’s heroics changed the narrative.
Svechnikov’s Moment of Magic
With under two minutes left, Andrei Svechnikov seized the moment. On a rush into Washington’s zone, he executed a slick give-and-go with defenseman Sean Walker. From a sharp angle below the right circle, Svechnikov unleashed a wrist shot that caught Capitals goaltender Logan Thompson off guard, slipping through for the go-ahead goal. The Russian winger’s eighth playoff goal—and third in as many games—proved to be the series-clincher, cementing his status as a postseason star.
Just 92 seconds later, Seth Jarvis sealed the victory with an empty-net goal, sending Hurricanes fans into a frenzy and silencing the Washington crowd. The 3-1 final score reflected Carolina’s ability to capitalize on critical moments, a hallmark of their playoff success under coach Rod Brind’Amour.
Key Factors in Carolina’s Victory
Carolina’s triumph was no fluke; it was the result of a disciplined game plan and standout performances. Here’s what fueled their Game 5 win:

Frederik Andersen’s Brilliance: The Hurricanes’ goaltender stopped 18 of 19 shots, including several high-danger chances from Alex Ovechkin and Pierre-Luc Dubois. His calm presence in net was a game-changer.
Defensive Dominance: Carolina’s suffocating system limited Washington to just 19 shots on goal, frustrating the Capitals’ potent offense. Rookie Alexander Nikishin, in his NHL playoff debut, held his own against Ovechkin, showcasing a bright future.
Clutch Scoring: Svechnikov’s late heroics and Jarvis’s empty-netter highlighted Carolina’s ability to deliver when it mattered most, a trait that has defined their 10-5 record in closeout games under Brind’Amour.
Team Buy-In: As coach Brind’Amour noted, both veterans like Staal and newcomers embraced the Hurricanes’ structured style, creating a cohesive unit that thrives in high-stakes moments.

Capitals’ Season Ends, Ovechkin’s Legacy in Focus
For Washington, the loss marked the end of a remarkable season that saw them clinch the Eastern Conference’s top seed and celebrate Alex Ovechkin surpassing Wayne Gretzky as the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer. Despite Beauvillier’s goal and Thompson’s 18 saves, the Capitals couldn’t overcome Carolina’s relentless pressure. Ovechkin, held off the scoresheet in Game 5, faced elimination for the first time since 1997, a testament to his enduring competitiveness.
The Capitals now face an offseason of reflection. With Ovechkin’s contract nearing its end and a talented core including Connor McMichael and Dylan Strome, Washington must balance honoring their legend with building for the future. Fans on X expressed mixed emotions, with some praising the team’s grit and others lamenting missed opportunities in a winnable series.
What’s Next for the Hurricanes?
Carolina’s victory sets up an Eastern Conference Final matchup against either the Florida Panthers or Toronto Maple Leafs, with Florida holding a 3-2 series lead as of May 16, 2025. A potential rematch with the Panthers, who defeated Carolina in 2023, would add intrigue, while a clash with Toronto would evoke memories of their 2002 postseason battle. Regardless of the opponent, the Hurricanes’ blend of experience, youth, and system-driven play makes them a formidable contender.
Coach Brind’Amour emphasized the team’s composure, crediting veterans and newcomers alike for buying into the Hurricanes’ identity. “We’ve been in these tight games for years, and the guys trust our game,” he said. With Svechnikov firing on all cylinders and Andersen anchoring the crease, Carolina is poised for a deep playoff run.
Conclusion: Carolina’s Playoff Prowess Shines
The Carolina Hurricanes’ Game 5 victory over the Washington Capitals was a masterclass in playoff hockey—gritty, opportunistic, and thrilling. Andrei Svechnikov’s late goal not only ended the Capitals’ season but also underscored Carolina’s knack for rising to the occasion. As they await their next opponent, the Hurricanes are proving they’re not just contenders but potential Stanley Cup champions. For Noyzy News readers, this is a team to watch as the postseason heats up. Stay tuned for more high-octane NHL action