The Caps let two power plays go by with no goals but a bunch of chances. Finally in the second, they broke through.
The Caps rode a wave of momentum after Alex Ovechkin nailed Sean Couturier with a big hit at center ice. Five minutes later, with Brandon Manning in the box for delay of game, John Carlson converted the PP and scored Washington’s first goal of the playoffs.
Carlson had the puck up high as the Flyers PK and Backstrom lined up in the slot. Carlson unleashed a slapper that bobbled under Bellemare’s skates and hopped into Steve Mason’s nethers.
Some net-front presence by Nicklas Backstrom didn’t hurt either.
First goal of the playoffs!! #CapsFlyers #RockTheRed https://t.co/VNAfe7C3Hp
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) April 15, 2016
Alex Ovechkin was pumped.
The Caps dominated the Flyers 14-4 in shots in the second period. They held Philadelphia without a shot for the first ten minutes of play.
Caps lead Flyers 1-0. Breathe normal.
