It would take a major collapse for the Capitals to not move on to the second round of the 2011 NHL Playoffs. The Capitals added a second goal and now have a 2-0 lead over the New York Rangers after two periods in Game 5.
The Capitals finally took the 2-0 lead thanks to their superstar. Alex Ovechkin took an outlet pass, cut in front of Marc Staal and deposited a backhand by Henrik Lundqvist just over seven minutes into the second period. Scott Hannan and Brooks Laich got credited with the assists.
The Capitals then let up a bit, allowing the Rangers to get some momentum. The Rangers went on two power plays during the second period, and got several nice shots off on both of them. However, goalie Michal Neuvirth was up to the task, preserving the Capitals' 2-0 lead.
Capitals defensemen Mike Green, who took a slap shot to the head in the first period, returned to the bench in the second period, but has yet to return to the game.