In a decisive matchup on Thursday night, the St. Louis Blues emerged victorious over the Washington Capitals with a 5-2 win. This victory nudges the Blues closer to securing the final playoff spot in the Western Conference, while dealing the Eastern Conference leaders, the Capitals, an unusual second consecutive loss.
Key contributions to the Blues’ triumph came from Philip Broberg, who scored twice, along with goals from Dylan Holloway and Colton Parayko. Jake Neighbours sealed the win with an empty-net goal. The team is on a three-game winning streak, maintaining their competitive edge as the NHL trade deadline on March 7 approaches. Strategic decisions made by general manager Doug Armstrong, including signing Broberg and Holloway from Edmonton last summer, have been beneficial for the team. Backup goalkeeper Joel Hofer also contributed with 16 saves.
The Capitals faced setbacks as winger Tom Wilson was absent due to illness. Despite this, players Pierre-Luc Dubois and Connor McMichael each managed to score. However, goaltender Charlie Lindgren allowed four goals from 18 shots, and star player Alex Ovechkin continues to chase Wayne Gretzky’s career goal record, trailing by 12 goals.
During the game, Brayden Schenn’s 1,000th career regular-season NHL game was celebrated, and his performance, alongside his teammates, might give general manager Armstrong a reason to reconsider trading strategies before the deadline. On the other side, the Capitals seem to be experiencing a midseason slowdown after a strong start earlier in the year.
A turning point in the game occurred when McMichael equalized the score at 2-2 late in the second period, only for Holloway and Parayko to rapidly score twice within 35 seconds, dampening the spirits of the home crowd who had just renewed hope.
A notable highlight was Holloway’s performance, scoring his 18th goal in 60 games this season, contrasting with his previous record tally of 14 goals over 115 games, including playoffs, while with the Oilers.
Looking ahead, the Blues are set to host the Los Angeles Kings at home on Saturday night. Meanwhile, the Capitals will regroup as they prepare to face the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday afternoon.
