In Game 4, Washington Capitals coach Spencer Carbery opted for a shortened bench strategy, primarily utilizing five defensemen amid a crucial 5-2 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. Third-pairing defenseman Alex Alexeyev played only 5:48, getting no ice time in the third period, reflecting Carbery's focus on more reliable players at a critical juncture. The 25-year-old Alexeyev, thrust into playoff action due to an injury to teammate Martin Fehervary, has shown flashes of talent but overall statistics indicate struggles, particularly in possession and scoring chances.
Carbery shortened his bench with the Capitals trailing, relying heavily on five defensemen during a pivotal Game 4 against Carolina, limiting Alexeyev's ice time significantly.
Alexeyev, who played only eight regular season games, was thrust into a full-time playoff role due to injury, but his performance has been concerning overall.
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