In the Ovechkin & Backstrom era of the Washington Capitals, they’ve won their division 8 of 11 seasons, only missing the playoffs once, and finishing 2nd twice. That means they’ve been the higher seed heading into the first round 10 times in 11 seasons, yet they have never swept an opponent. 2 of the 8 series so far in this seasons’ playoffs have ended in sweep. The Capitals have only won one series 4-1 (2011 Rangers) in that era, yet another 2 of 8 series so far in this seasons’ playoffs have ended 4-1.
Much has been written about the Capitals inability to get past the second round of the playoffs, but most of the focus is on their failure to win, especially in game 7.