Watch: Capitals goalie Logan Thompson makes save of the Stanley Cup playoffs

Forward Taylor Hall had the first shot on goal, which caromed off Thompson and directly to Stankoven, who had an open look at the net after Thompson had shifted right of the goal to deflect Hall's look.

The Capitals are in a must-win situation in Game 5, down 3-1 in the series. The Hurricanes have found a groove offensively over the past two games, scoring nine goals, including eight against Thompson, who has a 87.7 percent save percentage during that span.

Thompson must build on his incredible first-period save for Washington to earn a Game 6 win. If his struggles return, Thompson's valiant effort will have been for nothing.