WASHINGTON — Pierre-Luc Dubois netted his second goal of the night as overtime wound down, helping the Washington Capitals secure a 2-1 victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Wednesday evening, despite an overall lackluster performance from the team.
Dubois clinched the win with just 40.3 seconds remaining in the 3-on-3 overtime, having earlier found the net against goalie Lankinen with only 32.7 seconds left in the first period. Logan Thompson had a solid game in net, turning aside 30 shots, including an impressive 20 saves in just the second period. Washington fought hard for the narrow win while managing to only put 18 shots on goal throughout the match.
For the Canucks, Lankinen recorded 16 saves, while Conor Garland contributed the team’s sole goal. Vancouver continues to struggle, having lost three consecutive games and eight of their last ten.
Alex Ovechkin faced another evening without scoring, marking two games with no goals to his name, leaving him at 872 career goals. He sits 23 goals shy of breaking Wayne Gretzky’s long-standing NHL career record.
**Key Insights**
The Canucks are still navigating the absence of center Elias Pettersson due to injury. While the team’s defensive play improved from previous outings, they remain mired in a difficult phase. There is, however, some optimism as their starting goaltender, Thatcher Demko, nears a return.
On the other side, Capitals coach Spencer Carbery has plenty to critique, yet his team continues to accumulate victories and essential points, currently sitting atop the Eastern Conference. They have now garnered points in five consecutive games.
**Turning Point**
Dubois’ decisive goal not only showcased his skill but also allowed the Capitals to avoid a shootout scenario for the second time this week.
**Noteworthy Statistic**
Both teams combined for a mere nine shots in each of the first and third periods, resulting in a game that lacked intensity in those segments.
**Looking Ahead**
The Canucks will face the Carolina Hurricanes on Friday as part of a five-game road trip, while the Capitals prepare to host the Montreal Canadiens.
