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Capitals: Top 3 heroes against Hurricanes

ByMichael Marzzacco|
RALEIGH, NC - JANUARY 03: The Washington Capitals celebrate a second period goal during an NHL game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Washington Capitals on January 3, 2020 at the PNC Arena in Raleigh, NC. (Photo by John McCreary/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
RALEIGH, NC - JANUARY 03: The Washington Capitals celebrate a second period goal during an NHL game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Washington Capitals on January 3, 2020 at the PNC Arena in Raleigh, NC. (Photo by John McCreary/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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RALEIGH, NC – JANUARY 03: Washington Capitals Goalie Ilya Samsonov (30) makes a save through the snow spray during an NHL game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Washington Capitals on January 3, 2020 at the PNC Arena in Raleigh, NC. (Photo by John McCreary/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
RALEIGH, NC – JANUARY 03: Washington Capitals Goalie Ilya Samsonov (30) makes a save through the snow spray during an NHL game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Washington Capitals on January 3, 2020 at the PNC Arena in Raleigh, NC. (Photo by John McCreary/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Ilya Samsonov

Ilya Samsonov had another solid road outing to remain undefeated away from Capital One Arena with an 8-0-0 road record. Samsonov stopped 38 of 41 shots for a .927 save percentage.

The bulk of his work came in the first and third periods. In the first 20 minutes, Samsonov faced 18 shots but stood tall stopping everything in his sight. In the third, Samsonov faced 15 shots and while some got past him, he still helped keep the Caps lead intact.

Samsonov was named officially as the first star of the game and deservedly so, he earned that on our list here. Capitals coach Todd Reirden told NHL.com:

"“[Samsonov] was, no question, the first star tonight. His emotional control never changes. I think it allows our team to not get too derailed. He was outstanding.”"

Lars Eller added:

"“Almost every night [Samsonov] is playing, that’s his level. I think he’s passed all the expectations you could think of for that young of a rookie goaltender. It’s not easy. Sometimes (he doesn’t) play for two weeks and he comes in and delivers. I can’t think of a game where he didn’t play well.”"

No matter what happens to Braden Holtby in the future, Samsonov living up to the hype keeps the Capitals crease in good hands.

Those are our top 3 heroes from a huge win over the Hurricanes. Who is your top 3? Let us know in the comments!

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