The Washington Capitals faced off against the Winnipeg Jets on a relatively calm afternoon. However, the game took a thrilling turn when Charlie Lindgren and Alex Ovechkin stepped up their game, propelling D.C. into playoff contention.
With Ovechkin netting two goals and Lindgren showcasing remarkable skill, the Capitals secured a significant 3-0 victory over the Jets. This win allowed D.C. to reclaim the second Wild Card spot, at least for the time being.
Carlson, Ovechkin Spark Offense
Amid a relatively calm atmosphere, the Capitals seized the opportunity to shift the momentum during a power play at the onset of the third period, and their advantage paid off yet again.
Following a chaotic sequence in the goalmouth, Max Pacioretty located John Carlson unguarded at the point. With precision, Carlson unleashed a blistering shot that whizzed past Connor Hellebuyck, altering the scoreline to 1-0 in favor of the Capitals.
Carlson continues his scoring streak, notching points in five consecutive games as he approaches his 1,000th NHL appearance. Washington's power play has been formidable, scoring goals in four consecutive games, totaling seven goals during this period. They've converted in 13 of their last 15 games, showcasing consistent effectiveness.
Shortly after, Alex Ovechkin swiftly netted a shot off the face-off, extending the lead to 2-0. This goal extended his scoring streak to five consecutive games and marked his 18th season with at least 25 goals, the second-highest tally in NHL history for such seasons.
But he didn't stop there. Later in the period, he aggressively maneuvered towards the crease, slipping a backhanded shot past Hellebuyck to extend his team's lead to 3-0. With this goal, he's now racked up seven goals in his last four games, totaling 26 goals for the season and 848 in his illustrious career. Remarkably, he's just 47 goals shy of surpassing Wayne Gretzky for the all-time NHL goal-scoring record.
Lindgren, Defense Fortify Victory
Despite the game being low on events and tied in score, Winnipeg took control in the second period, outshooting 11-3 and earning two power-play chances. Luckily for D.C., Charlie Lindgren and the defensive unit managed to stand firm, thwarting threats from players like Kyle Connor, Tyler Toffoli, Mark Scheifele, and others.
Throughout the game, Lindgren made remarkable saves, showcasing his agility and composure to thwart odd-man rushes and close-range opportunities. He concluded the night with 27 saves, securing his fifth shutout of the season. He also received support from his teammates on the ice, with D.C. collectively blocking 15 shots. The penalty kill successfully thwarted both of Winnipeg's power-play opportunities, going a perfect 2-for-2.
Oshie's 1,000-Game Honor Return
During the game, Washington paused to honor T.J. Oshie for reaching 1,000 NHL games. The Capitals' winger, back in action after missing the previous two outings due to an upper-body injury, witnessed his teammates donning his No. 77 during warmups. A pregame ceremony ensued, during which Oshie was presented with gifts from the league, his team, and fellow players commemorating his achievement.
Patrick Kane, David Backes, Kevin Shattenkirk, and several other players sent supportive videos for Oshie, which were played throughout the game. In his return from injury, Oshie notched two assists.
Capitals' Sonny Milano Injured
Washington found themselves shorthanded on the right side during Sunday's game closure, with Sonny Milano sustaining an upper-body injury in the first period and exiting the game early. The exact nature of Milano's injury remains unclear, but he only managed four shifts and a total of 2 minutes and 37 seconds of ice time before departing. Although he received a hit along the boards from Brenden Dillon during his last shift, Milano didn't show signs of discomfort at the time.
Losing Milano is a blow for the Capitals, particularly since they are already lacking depth on the right side due to Tom Wilson's six-game suspension.