Tom Wilson showcased his defensive prowess in the Capitals' 3-1 playoff win against the Carolina Hurricanes, despite only receiving credit for two blocked shots. His impactful plays included a critical block on a shot from Jordan Staal and an assist on John Carlson's power-play goal, which marked a significant moment as it broke the Hurricanes' strong penalty kill streak. Wilson also sealed the game with an empty-netter, demonstrating his offensive skills alongside his defensive contributions.

Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin praised Wilson's leadership and performance, stating that he set the tone for the team. After a disappointing overtime loss in Game 1, Wilson emphasized the need for the team to demand more from one another. Coach Spencer Carbery noted Wilson's proactive approach to improving team performance post-loss, highlighting his role in motivating the squad.