The Washington Capitals face elimination against the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 5 of their second-round series. The Hurricanes' 3-1 series lead surprised many, as the top-seeded Capitals were viewed as the favorite entering the matchup.

The Washington Capitals held a lighter optional morning skate ahead of Thursday's elimination game against the Carolina Hurricanes, with several regulars choosing not to take the ice and get some extra rest going into Game 5.

The Capitals are staring down elimination in Game 5. Here's what would help them start to dig out from the 3-1 hole.

For part of Monday night, the Washington Capitals stunk. For other parts, they tried desperately to remain with the Carolina Hurricanes — and just about did. But think about that for a second. It feels as if the Capitals are merely trying to hold on to this second-round Stanley Cup playoff series with the tips of their fingernails as the Hurricanes rip it away from them.

The Carolina Hurricanes twice found their two-goal margin halved in the third period of their latest playoff game with the Washington Capitals. Each time they found a prompt response.

The Washington Capitals are in unfamiliar territory after their most recent loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. Following the Hurricanes' 5-2 victory in Game 4, Carolina jumped to a 3-1 series lead over the top-seeded Capitals.

Getting contributions up and down the lineup, the Carolina Hurricanes put forth a formidable team effort Monday, when they skated