In a thrilling season opener, the Washington Capitals began their 2011/12 NHL season with a 4-3 overtime victory over the Carolina Hurricanes. Mike Green, who missed so many games at the end of last season, supplied the game-winner on the power play with 2:36 remaining in overtime for the Capitals.
The Capitals had to kill off a Hurricanes power play to start overtime after Alexander Semin committed a penalty at the very end of regulation. Carolina had many key chances on that power play, but goalie Michal Neuvirth made some big saves to preserve the tie. Carolina's Jussi Jokinen, who tied the game at three in regulation, committed a penalty, putting the Capitals on the power play. Green converted on the first shift for the game-winner.
Green, Jason Chimera, Semin and Brooks Laich scored the goals for Washington. Eric Staal had two goals for Carolina.
Visit Japers' Rink to talk about the game with fellow Capitals fans. For more on the Hurricanes, visit Canes Country.