1998 Eastern Conference Finals

Lore & Background

The series against New Jersey is remembered for its intensity and physicality, with the Capitals pushing the Devils to the brink but falling in six games. Despite a valiant effort that included crucial saves from Kolzig and clutch scoring from veterans like Steve Konowalchuk and Joe Juneau, the Capitals could not overcome the Devils' depth and experience. The loss in Game 6 remains a defining moment of 'what could have been,' serving as a catalyst for the franchise's subsequent evolution into the powerhouse it would become in later decades.

In Their Own Story

The ice at the MCI Center crackled with tension as the clock wound down in Game 7, the air thick with the scent of popcorn and nervous sweat. Olaf Kolzig stood tall between the pipes, his mask reflecting the harsh arena lights, knowing one mistake would end a decade-long drought for the franchise. As the puck skidded toward the net, time seemed to suspend; the roar of the crowd was a deafening wall of sound that vibrated through the boards. In those final seconds, every Capital fan held their breath, dreaming of a parade down K Street, only to watch the dream slip away as the Devils' celebration began.

Reader's Guide

The era began with a mid-season coaching change in January 1998 when Jim Schoenfeld replaced Dave Poulin. This shift revitalized the team's defensive structure and offensive flow, propelling them into the playoffs. They navigated the first two rounds with grit, overcoming tough opposition to reach the Eastern Conference Finals against the New Jersey Devils. The series was a classic battle of styles, featuring intense physical play and high-stakes goaltending battles. The turning point came in Game 7 at the MCI Center, where the Capitals squandered opportunities and ultimately fell to New Jersey. This loss highlighted the thin line between contention and championship contention for Washington. Following this heartbreak, the franchise used the experience as a foundation, retaining key players like Kolzig and Konowalchuk while continuing to build toward future success in the early 2000s.

Did You Know?

• Olaf Kolzig made over 50 saves across the six-game series against New Jersey.
• This was the first time in franchise history that the Capitals reached the Eastern Conference Finals.
• The Capitals clinched the Eastern Conference Semifinals at MCI Center earlier in the same playoffs, not during this series.
• Jim Schoenfeld became the first coach in franchise history to lead the team to the conference finals.