Capitals Report Card: Caps Beat Penguins to Keep Playoff Hopes Alive
The Washington Capitals (41-30-9) remain alive in the playoff race for now. They got the job done with a 6-3 […]
Philip G. Pavely-Imagn Images The Washington Capitals (41-30-9) remain alive in the playoff race for now. They got the job done with a 6-3 road victory over the rival Pittsburgh Penguins (41-23-16).
Saturday’s matchup was supposed to be the 75th regular season (100th including playoffs) meeting between Alex Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby. However, Crosby was ruled day-to-day and missed the game, alongside longtime teammates Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang. Nevertheless, Ovechkin received a standing ovation in what could be his last game in Pittsburgh.
The Great 8 went on to seal the Capitals’ victory with an empty-netter for his 929th career goal. Ilya Protas had a multipoint performance with his first NHL goal and two assists. He also helped his older brother Aliaksei score in the middle frame.
Ryan Leonard scored twice as he continues to be a key piece to the Capitals’ future. Meanwhile, Tom Wilson’s second-period tally moved him to the 30-goal mark. The Capitals also got some out-of-town scoreboard help when Ottawa shut out the Islanders 4-0.