Hurricanes Ride Orlov’s Stellar Performance to Victory Over Capitals

Dmitry Orlov showcased his scoring prowess on Sunday night, netting two crucial goals to propel the Carolina Hurricanes to a 4-2 triumph over the Washington Capitals. This marked the sixth consecutive victory for the Hurricanes, a streak fueled by strong performances from key players, including an impressive one-goal, two-assist outing from Martin Necas. Andrei Svechnikov sealed the victory with an empty-netter.

Capitals’ Winning Streak Halted Despite Early Advantage

The Capitals, who had been enjoying a three-game winning run, could only muster goals from Alex Ovechkin and Brandon Duhaime. The duo’s quick-fire goals within a 33-second spell towards the end of the opening period had given the Capitals a 2-1 lead. However, Hurricanes’ netminder Pyotr Kochetkov quashed any further scoring attempts.

Necas and Orlov Spark Second Period Comeback

Necas and Orlov, the latter a seasoned veteran with over a decade of NHL experience under his belt with the Capitals, netted early in the second period to swing the game in favor of the Hurricanes. Despite a 40-save effort from Washington’s Charlie Lindgren, the Capitals couldn’t resist the Hurricanes’ onslaught.

Game Highlights: Ovechkin’s Power-Play Goal and Orlov’s Crucial Strike

Ovechkin’s power-play goal, a classic one-timer from the left circle, kept his scoring streak alive, marking his fifth goal in four games and seventh of the season. The 39-year-old Russian is now 35 goals shy of surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s NHL record of 894 career goals.

The game’s pivotal moment came with the scores level at 2-2. Orlov blasted a one-timer from the right circle at 5:26 in the second period, assisted by Necas, who is currently on a six-game point streak and leads the team with 18 points.

Dominant Hurricanes and Upcoming Games

The Hurricanes, fresh from their annual October road trip forced by the State Fair in Raleigh, have won their first two home games upon return for the second consecutive year. They look to extend this home form with two more games in Raleigh before embarking on a three-game trip against Western Conference adversaries.

The Hurricanes’ resilience is evident in their perfect 7-0-0 record when leading after two periods this season. Up next, the Capitals will welcome Nashville on Wednesday, while the Hurricanes aim to extend their home winning streak with a Tuesday night game against Philadelphia.