Late in the third period of Thursday’s game, Nicklas Backstrom did exactly the type of thing that separates playoff hockey from the regular season. As the Carolina Hurricanes were on the power play, looking to tie the game, the Capitals star used his body as a shield using to block two shots.
Backstrom’s effort was part of an overall effective penalty kill that helped the Capitals hold on in a 4-2 win. Carolina scored twice in the third, but couldn’t capitalize on its two power-play opportunities after those goals.
The Capitals now lead the series 1-0.
“It was good to face some adversity, make us realize how much each play means,” defenseman John Carlson said.