Washington Capitals defeat Carolina Hurricanes 5-2 in season opener

The Washington Capitals opened their 2026-27 NHL season with a 5-2 victory over the defending Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes in Raleigh, North Carolina. Alex Tuch made a significant impact in his debut for Washington, scoring two goals in the first period. Other goals for the Capitals were provided by Cole Hutson, Jakob Chychrun, and Ryan Leonard. Goaltender Logan Thompson made 31 saves to secure the win.

Alex Ovechkin, entering his 22nd NHL season, contributed an assist on Tuch’s opening goal but played a career-low 12:46 of ice time. This limited playing time followed a training camp injury that prevented him from participating in any preseason games.

For the Hurricanes, Sebastian Aho and Logan Stankoven scored. The loss brings Carolina’s early-season record to 0-1-1. The game also featured notable performances across the league, including a shutout by New York Rangers goaltender Dylan Garand against the Detroit Red Wings and a victory for the Boston Bruins over the Winnipeg Jets.