Carolina's depth and overall edge at five-on-five, even if you disagree with the odds, still make them the smarter bet.

Time was dwindling in a two-man advantage as Sebastian Aho drifted to the right side, putting himself in position for the sharp-angle finish that would erase the Carolina Hurricanes’ last deficit of the night.

Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes, longtime division rivals, will square off in a second-round playoff series beginning in Washington, DC.