Washington Capitals, Carolina Hurricanes Live To Fight Another Day

There were two games played yesterday afternoon in the NHL’s eastern conference playoffs.  The Washington Capitals beat the New York Rangers 5-3 and the Carolina Hurricanes who defeated the New Jersey Devils 4-0 behind a Cam Ward Shutout.   Both teams that won forced a deciding game seven with their respective opponents.  The Hurricanes were led by Ray Whitney’s four point night, he had a goal and assisted on the three others.  Game 7 will be played back in New Jersey where the Devils are really tough to beat.  I’m sure Martin Brodeur will be up to the challenge but if Cam Ward continues his spectacular net play it will be an all out defensive war.  We’ll see who gets to advance to the 2nd round and who packs it in for the year.

Since Washington made a goalie change after game one they seem like a different team, they have stifled New offense.  Until yesterdays game the Ranger offense had only produced three goals in four games.  That will just not get the job done.  The Caps are starting to exert their will and tomorrow night should be the end of the road for the Rangers.  For the second straight year, Washington has forced a Game 7 in the first round after trailing 3-1.  The Capitals fell short at home against Philadelphia last year, but the Southeast Division champions are riding a wave that could make them the 21st team in 230 chances to come all the way back.  The Capitals are 1-4 all-time in Game 7 while the Rangers are 3-4.