WINNIPEG, Manitoba — In a thrilling display on the ice, Nikolaj Ehlers secured a playoff berth for the Winnipeg Jets by scoring on a breakaway just 1:28 into overtime, giving his team a 3-2 victory over the Washington Capitals on Tuesday night. The clash brought together the two top NHL teams, both vying for dominance in this late-season encounter.
Josh Morrissey and Mason Appleton also contributed to the scoring for the Jets, achieving a season sweep over the Capitals with both victories being decided in overtime. Connor Hellebuyck was steadfast in the net, making 27 crucial saves to ensure the win.
Adding excitement to the contest, Alex Ovechkin edged closer to a historic milestone by netting his 889th career goal, putting him just six goals shy of Wayne Gretzky’s NHL record. Andrew Mangiapane also put his name on the scoresheet for Washington, while goalie Logan Thompson registered 22 saves in the matchup.
In overtime, Ehlers took advantage as the Capitals were mid line change, scooping up the puck and skillfully launching a wrist shot past Thompson, marking his 24th goal of the season and sealing the win for the Jets.
Earlier, Ovechkin showcased his enduring talent with a one-timer that slipped through Hellebuyck’s pads, leveling the score at 2-2 with only four minutes remaining in the regulation period. This equalizer followed a tense moment when Hellebuyck denied Tom Wilson’s one-timer shot just a minute before.
**Takeaways**
For the Jets, this victory signifies their third consecutive playoff qualification and their seventh appearance in the last eight years, highlighting their consistency and resilience. The team had to navigate the absence of Gabriel Vilardi due to an upper-body injury, with Alex Iafallo stepping into the lineup and Adam Lowry moving up to the second line alongside Ehlers and Appleton.
The Capitals continue to exhibit strong form with a 9-1-1 record over their past 11 games. They entered the matchup having conquered 28 of the league’s 31 other teams this season, with only a few teams, including Winnipeg, still evading them. Upcoming games against Minnesota and Chicago will provide further opportunities for wins.
**Key Moment**
Ovechkin’s 36th goal of the season, which tied the game in the dying minutes of the third period, was crucial. This pivotal moment maintained the Capitals’ hopes until Ehlers’ decisive overtime goal.
**Key Stat**
The Jets have shown to be a formidable force when holding a lead after two periods, currently boasting a commendable 37-0-1 record in such situations this season.
**Up Next**
Looking ahead, the Capitals are set to face the Minnesota team on Thursday, while the Jets prepare to host the New Jersey squad on Friday. Both games will be vital as they continue their campaigns in the league.
