Capitals leave offense at home in Game 3 loss to Hurricanes

"You miss 100 percent of the shots you don't take."

Wayne Gretzky's famous adage was on full display Monday when the Washington Capitals were shut out by the Carolina Hurricanes, 5-0, in Game 3 of their first-round series.

The Capitals were dominated from start to finish and were outshot in all three periods, including an 18-1 count in the second frame - their only shot on goal in a span of just over 40 minutes. The single effort set a franchise record for fewest in a period for a road playoff game, according to NHL.com's Tom Gulitti.

With 4:51 remaining in the third period, the Hurricanes held a shot advantage of 42-11. They heavily controlled the possession game as well, out-attempting the Capitals 51-28 at even strength on the night.

Following the game, Capitals star center Nicklas Backstrom called his team's performance "completely unacceptable," according to NBCS Washington's Brian McNally. In total, nine Capitals were held without a shot on the night.

"They were on a different level than we were tonight," head coach Todd Reirden said postgame, according to McNally.

The win marked the Hurricanes' first in the postseason since May 14, 2009.

Washington still holds a 2-1 series lead and will look to bring a stronger effort in Game 4 on Thursday.

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