After outscoring the Tampa Bay Lightning 10-4 in the first two games of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Washington Capitals came home to the District. Their Game 3 performance was… less impressive.
The Capitals will look to bounce back from Tuesday’s 4-2 loss and win their third game of the series Thursday night. Another loss, and the series will be tied, just like the Capitals’ first two playoff series were through four games.
Here’s everything you need to know and read before Game 4:
Opponent: Tampa Bay Lightning (Capitals lead series 2-1)
Location: Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C.
Date and Time: Thursday, May 17, 8 p.m.
Television: NBC Sports Network
Radio: FAN 106.7
Pre-game reading:
Capitals have ’got to be desperate’ for Game 4, by Matthew Paras
Lightning dominate Capitals in Game 3 to get back into series, by Matthew Paras
Special teams failures took Capitals’ teeth away in Game 3, by Adam Zielonka
Wilson takes issue with Stralman hit: ’If I make that … I’m probably sitting out,’ by Matthew Paras
The move that saved the Capitals’ defense wasn’t a flashy one, by Matthew Paras
Capitals now favorites to win Stanley Cup, by Matthew Paras
What to watch for: Nicklas Backstrom remains a game-time decision, but the Capitals have said he is not yet medically cleared to play. He has taken part in morning skates each of the last two days … After Washington allowed only one even-strength goal to the Lightning in Games 1 and 2 combined, Tampa Bay scored twice at 5-on-5 in Game 3. … Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman scored his first goal of the playoffs in a three-point effort Tuesday night. His 11 points this postseason rank third among defensemen still playing, but he is behind Winnipeg’s Dustin Byfuglien (15) and Washington’s John Carlson (14).
• Staff can be reached at 202-636-3000.
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