Date: 05-06 (May 6th) Time: 7:00 PM EST

Location: Washington, D.C.

Moneyline: Hurricanes -120, Capitals +100

The Setup:

The Carolina Hurricanes and Washington Capitals face off in Game 1 of their second-round series. It's a clean slate, and both teams will be looking to set the tone early.

Key Factors To Watch For:

• Caps Physicality: Do the Caps try and come out hitting to wear down the Hurricanes and send a message?
• Game One Adjustments: What adjustments do the Hurricanes do defensively and on offense? Will it be enough against a tough home crowd?
• Home Ice Advantage: Who can capitalize on that, and what do the Hurricanes do to adjust?
• Goaltender Quality: This is key. Can the Caps and Hurricanes depend on their tender to come up big and win it all?

Prediction:

I'm still anticipating for the Hurricanes to edge out and secure a narrow victory due to skill alone. Their coaching prowess helps too in calling great shots at the right time. Home ice is not enough to help the Caps in the end.

Final Prediction: Hurricanes 3, Capitals 2

• I am still recommending the under, where both teams do a great job on D.