If the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs began with teams in their current positions in the standings, the Carolina Hurricanes and Washington Capitals would not be matched up in the first round. But there are nearly five full weeks left in the season, so this marquee Monday matchup could be repeated in May.
That particular scenario would perhaps be more welcomed by one team than the other; the Caps have won all three games against the Canes this season (4-2 on Nov. 28, 4-0 on March 3, and 4-3 in a shootout on March 18).