The Washington Capitals faced a tough challenge in their playoff match against the Carolina Hurricanes, falling 2-1 in overtime despite a strong start. The Capitals, rejuvenated from their previous round, aimed to implement a strategic game plan against the Hurricanes' relentless shot game, which saw them record 91 shot attempts. Aliaksei Protas made headlines with his first career playoff goal, but the Capitals couldn't sustain the early lead and now face pressure heading into Game 2.