Thrilling Showdown: Capitals vs. Devils
In a thrilling showdown on Saturday night, the Washington Capitals edged out the New Jersey Devils 4-3, with defenseman Jakob Chychrun sealing the victory by scoring in overtime. This marked only the Capitals’ second win in their last eight outings, while the Devils continued their downward spiral, suffering their third consecutive defeat.
Key Performances
Logan Thompson put in a stellar performance, stopping 35 shots, as Washington battled back from adversity. The Capitals took a 2-1 lead into the third period, thanks to goals from Aliaksei Protas, Anthony Beauvillier, and Alex Ovechkin, the latter scoring his historic 912th career goal late in regulation to equalize after New Jersey had surged ahead.
Game Highlights
Protas opened the scoring in the first period, finding the net just before the buzzer after receiving an assist from Ovechkin, boosting his tally to 14 goals this season. Jesper Bratt of New Jersey, who previously struggled to find the back of the net, responded with a power-play goal in the second period to level the score. Beauvillier later flicked the puck past Devils goalie Jake Allen to restore the Capitals’ lead. However, Bratt scored again, quickly followed by Cody Glass, pushing the Devils ahead 3-2 before Ovechkin’s late equalizer sent the game to overtime.
Overtime Victory
In the extra period, Chychrun emerged as the hero, scoring just over four minutes in, which ultimately handed the Capitals a vital win. The result improves Washington’s formidable record to 11 wins and just one loss in their last 12 games at the Prudential Center.
Looking Ahead
The Devils have now lost two out of their last three games following recent defeats to the Islanders and the Sabres, raising concerns about their form as they prepare to face the Toronto Maple Leafs next. Meanwhile, the Capitals aim to build on this momentum with an upcoming game against the Florida Panthers after bouncing back from a heavy loss to the Rangers earlier this week. Allen made 29 saves in his effort but was unable to secure the victory for New Jersey.
