RALEIGH, N.C. — Alex Ovechkin inched closer to breaking a historical NHL record with his 892nd career goal. Yet, it was rookie Jackson Blake who stole the spotlight by scoring twice, leading the Carolina Hurricanes to a commanding 5-1 victory over the Washington Capitals on Wednesday night. This triumph secured a playoff berth for the Hurricanes.
The Hurricanes, now playoff-bound for the seventh consecutive season, equaled their franchise record thanks to additional goals by Logan Stankoven, Seth Jarvis, and Sean Walker. Goalie Frederik Andersen contributed significantly by stopping 20 out of 21 shots, helping him achieve his seventh consecutive win.
During a 5-on-3 power play, Ovechkin capitalized with a trademark one-timer, reducing the Capitals’ deficit to 4-1 shortly before the end of the second period. Ovechkin has shown an impressive form with 17 goals in the past 25 games and boasts 39 goals this season.
Washington’s goalie, Logan Thompson, conceded three goals in the first period before exiting the game with an upper-body injury. His replacement, Charlie Lindgren, made 17 saves after entering the game.
Analysis
The Capitals appeared fatigued, likely due to playing back-to-back games with a secured playoff spot. Ovechkin’s record pursuit remains a focal point, but Thompson’s late-season injury poses a greater concern than their current standings. On the other hand, the Hurricanes celebrated Jarvis’ power-play goal, marking his second consecutive 30-goal season. Blake, displaying newfound scoring prowess, netted three goals in his last three appearances.
Crucial Moment
At the 13:21 mark of the first period, Jarvis unleashed a one-timer that mirrored Ovechkin’s signature shot, granting the Hurricanes an emphatic 3-0 lead on the power play.
Significant Stat
The game intensified with 142 penalty minutes handed out, 122 of which occurred during the heated third period as emotions flared and physical exchanges escalated.
Future Matchups
Looking ahead, the Capitals will host Chicago on Friday, while the Hurricanes are slated to play against Detroit on the same evening.