Washington Capitals lose Game 5 to Carolina Hurricanes in Game 5, concluding their 2024-25 NHL playoff run

The Washington Capitals' 2024-25 NHL playoff season came to a disappointing conclusion on Thursday evening with an exhibition of futility against the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 5 of their second-round playoff series. The Washington Capitals were powerless throughout the game as they could only manage seven goals, with the Carolina Hurricanes dominating them. The Carolina Hurricanes now advance to the Eastern Conference Final for the second time in three years. The Washington Capitals' postseason hopes were extinguished in a 5-game series loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, concluding what had otherwise been their best year since their 2018 Stanley Cup win. “It's tough, obviously. We had a special group,” Alex Ovechkin told AP. “I don't think we played bad hockey. We had lots of great chances to get the lead. It's tough.” Alex Ovechkin, who will celebrate his 40th birthday in September, only scored once in the series after averaging four per game and 44 annually.Washington's departure through the year was the 50th anniversary of the team—one of cheer and optimism. Their own playoff experience, unlike last year, was a vast improvement after they barely held on and were swept by the New York Rangers in the first round. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes are cementing themselves as an East power. This is their second straight visit to the Eastern Conference Final, and they are a legitimate Stanley Cup contender. The Hurricanes were consistent and steadfast throughout the series, taking advantage of Washington's squandered chances and inability to get the ball in the basket.Also read: Stanley Cup playoffs thriller: Carolina Hurricanes and Dallas Stars look to seal seriesThe Washington Capitals fell short in the 2025 NHL playoffs sooner than expected. However, they did have a season of revival moments, most memorably in a franchise record season. For the team and Alex Ovechkin, the sooner-than-anticipated playoff departure is a reminder to build on this foundation before the window closes even more. Meanwhile for the Carolina Hurricanes, they just have to keep rolling toward the Stanley Cup with steam and a level-headed roster prepared to thrive.