Neuvirth shuts Carolina, Caps win 3-0

The Washington Capital, coming off a three day layoff as they start a three game road trip, defeated the Carolina Hurricanes in their home opener, 3-0.

Matt Hendricks scored the first goal of the game at the 10:47 mark of the first period. That goal would be the last until after the half way mark of the third period, when Nicklas Backstrom netted his second goal of the season to put the Capitals up 2-0. Backstrom had a two goal night, adding an empty netter at yen 18:32 mark of the fontal period.

The story here was the goal tending of Michal Neuvirth who pitched his first NHL shutout and to improve to 6-1 over his last 7 games. Neuvirth is now 6-2 on the season and lowered his GAA to 2.18 and increased his save percentage to .929. Congrats to Neuvirth on the big shut out. Neuvirth stopped all 29 Carolina shots on goal. But, even more than just the first career shutout was some of the incredible highlight reel saves Neuvirth made this evening, saving his Caps several times, and frustrating Carolina' Eric Staal twice.

Multiple-Point Scorers:

Nicklas Backstrom, 2 goals
Mike Knuble, 2 assists

DCPSR Player of the Game: MICHAL NEUVIRTH