The Washington Capitals’ season came to a crushing end as they were eliminated in Game 5 by the Carolina Hurricanes, losing 3–1 at home. The Hurricanes, a more complete and consistent team, controlled the series with superior special teams and possession play. Despite a late push from the Caps and a heroic effort by Alex Ovechkin, it wasn’t enough. Head coach Spencer Carbery didn’t sugarcoat it, calling the Game 5 loss “awful,” though he acknowledged how far the team came despite being written off by many at the start of the year.

Now, all eyes turn to the future. Ovechkin confirmed he’ll return for the final year of his contract, signaling one more season in a Caps jersey. But changes are coming—Tom Wilson is poised for a leadership role, the blue line will be reshaped, and young stars like Connor McMichael and Ryan Leonard are ready to take the next step. Injuries and aging vets exposed roster holes, and the front office must find scoring depth this offseason. The Caps’ rebuild-on-the-fly continues—but whether it ends with another playoff run or a full transition remains to be seen.

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