1998 Eastern Conference Finals
A seven-game thriller where the Capitals fell just short of the Stanley Cup Final against New Jersey.
The 1998 Eastern Conference Finals represent a pivotal and heartbreaking chapter in Washington Capitals history, marking the franchise's deepest playoff run since the 1970s before the modern era of dominance. Led by captain Mike Gartner and featuring the legendary goaltending of Olaf Kolzig, the Capitals faced off against the New Jersey Devils in a hard-fought seven-game series that ultimately ended in defeat.
- Season
- 1997-98
- Opponent
- New Jersey Devils
- Series Result
- Lost 3-4
- Key Captain
- Mike Garter
- Stadium
- MCI Center (now Capital One Arena)
- Head Coach
- Jim Schoenfeld
Lore & Background
The series against New Jersey is remembered for its intensity and physicality, with both teams trading victories in a grueling seven-game battle. Despite a valiant effort that included crucial saves from Kolzig and clutch scoring from veterans like Gartner and Steve Konowalchuk, the Capitals could not overcome the Devils' depth and experience. The loss in Game 7 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 seven-game series against New Jersey.
- This was the first time since 1978 that the Capitals reached the Eastern Conference Finals.
- The MCI Center hosted its first major playoff clinching game during this historic series.
- Jim Schoenfeld became only the second coach in franchise history to lead the team to a seven-game conference final.