Capitals’ Tom Wilson, Spencer Carbery leave no doubt about Logan Thompson’s impact after Game 2 vs Hurricanes

Logan Thompson proved to be an impenetrable force for the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 2 of their Eastern Conference second-round series, as the Washington Capitals secured a 3-1 victory on Thursday night. Thompson delivered a standout performance with 27 saves, including 16 crucial stops in the third period, helping the Capitals bounce back from an overtime loss in Game 1 and even the series at 1-1.

Hurricanes’ lone goal came from Shayne Gostisbehere, while Frederik Andersen made 18 saves. Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour acknowledged his team was outplayed, while Capitals coach Spencer Carbery expressed optimism about his team’s trajectory. “It was much better. There’s no doubt about that,” Carbery said, according to NHL.com. “I still think we have another level to get to… I feel like we’re getting there. Guys can feel it. We’re getting a little more confident.”

A major component of Washington’s success was its defensive discipline, with the team blocking 33 shots throughout the game. Tom Wilson registered two of those blocks, including a key denial of Jordan Staal late in the first period.

The Capitals’ scoring came from Connor McMichael, who converted on a breakaway; John Carlson, who tallied a power-play goal assisted by Wilson; and Tom Wilson, who capped off the win with an empty-net goal.

Wilson and Carbery praise Thompson’s composure

Tom Wilson did not hold back in his admiration for Thompson’s steady presence in net. “He’s our wall back there,” said Wilson. “He’s calm. He just keeps us in every single game. It’s nice having a goalie that’s going to give it his all. He’s been our MVP all year and he’s playing great.”

Carbery, meanwhile, also commended Wilson’s all-around effort. “I thought he was leading the charge tonight,” he said. “Even before the play he makes on the power play and on the empty-netter, I just thought he was really engaged.”