COLUMBUS, Ohio — In an exciting overtime clash on Thursday evening, Aliaksei Protas netted his second goal just 2:23 into the extra period, securing a 2-1 victory for the Washington Capitals over the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Protas earlier managed to tie the game by scoring just 31 seconds into the third period. The matchup showcased outstanding performances from both teams’ goalies. With this latest achievement, Protas has reached a total of 11 goals this season.

Charlie Lindgren, in goal for the Capitals, demonstrated his skills by saving 32 shots, including three key stops as Columbus pressured early in overtime.

For the Blue Jackets, Zach Werenski celebrated a milestone by scoring his 100th career goal with just 5:48 remaining in the second period. In his first game starting this season, Jet Greaves made 35 saves, contributing significantly to his team’s effort.

Werenski’s goal came off a power play when he received a pass from Kent Johnson and unleashed a powerful shot from the slot that eluded a well-positioned Lindgren.

The Capitals have been on a roll, securing their third consecutive win and achieving seven victories in their last eight games.

Significantly, the Capitals have set a team record with an impressive 10 straight wins on the road. Following their 4-2 victory over Montreal just the previous Saturday, they became only the third team in NHL history to record nine straight road wins, all in regulation.

On the other hand, the Blue Jackets faced their fifth loss in six games despite Greaves’ commendable performance, who had just been called up from the AHL’s Cleveland Monsters.

A pivotal moment arose in overtime when the Blue Jackets pressed heavily against Lindgren, but the Capitals regained control and capitalized on their first chance to score.

In a noteworthy achievement, Werenski became the first defenseman in the NHL this season to score 10 goals. He is also the eighth player in the history of the Blue Jackets to reach the 100-goal mark.

Looking ahead, both teams are scheduled to continue their campaigns on Saturday night, with the Capitals set to face the Sabres and the Blue Jackets welcoming the Ducks.