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NHL Makes Major Change to Capitals-Hurricanes Playoff Series

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Levine | Last updated May 15, 2025 5:56 PM ET

The Carolina Hurricanes are looking to knock out the Washington Capitals in the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Hurricanes currently own a 3-1 series advantage as the two sides get ready for a crucial Game 5.

Washington will be looking to keep their season alive and send this series back to Carolina. The top-seeded Capitals haven't looked very strong in this matchup, and Carolina has been able to take advantage.

While it remains to be seen if there will be a Game 6, the NHL has announced the start time for the potential game. Game 6 will take place on Saturday, May 17, at 8 p.m. ET.

Start time for the potential Game 6, if necessary, of the Second Round series between the @Capitals and @Canes has been set for 8 p.m. ET on Saturday (ABC, ESPN+, Sportsnet, TVA Sports). #StanleyCup

Details: https://t.co/T82F36giH5 pic.twitter.com/0Djl3nip4h
— NHL Public Relations (@NHLPR) May 15, 2025

The Capitals are hoping that Game 6 will indeed be played, and they are entering Game 5 with a lot of confidence. Forward Tim Wilson believes that all this team needs is one win to open the floodgates.

"I have no doubt with this group that the guys sitting on either side of me and across from me are going to bring everything they have and we're going to do our best to show up and fight, and if we do that, we're confident we're going to make some noise and start with one (win).", he said.

Washington was the best team in the Eastern Conference this season, so they will look to bring that firepower in Game 5. The Hurricanes have done an excellent job containing the normally explosive Washington offense, leading to the Capitals searching for answers.

Game 5 is set to kick off at 7 p.m. ET on Thursday.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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