Newark, N.J. — The Washington Capitals edged out the New Jersey Devils 6-5 in a thrilling showdown between the top two teams in the Metropolitan Division on Saturday night. Pierre-Luc Dubois, Rasmus Sandin, and Taylor Raddysh each contributed a goal and an assist in the win, which saw Washington extend its franchise-record road win streak to seven games.
The Capitals (17-6-1) received additional goals from Andrew Mangiapane, Connor McMichael, and Jakob Chychrun, with Raddysh breaking a 4-4 tie by tipping in a shot with 6:06 left in the game. Dubois followed quickly, scoring just 10 seconds later to give Washington a two-goal cushion.
Chychrun’s goal added to his recent hot streak, as he’s now scored three times in the last four games. John Carlson also played a pivotal role, recording three assists in the victory.
The game was marked by Washington’s effective power play, which has been a key factor in their success this week. The Capitals scored three power-play goals against New Jersey, including two during a 4-on-3 advantage in the second period, after Dawson Mercer was penalized for high-sticking Dylan Strome. McMichael and Chychrun capitalized on the opportunity, giving the Capitals a 3-2 lead.
For New Jersey (16-9-2), Stefan Noesen scored twice, while Jesper Bratt, Nico Hischier, and Justin Dowling also found the back of the net. Jack Hughes collected three assists in the loss. Devils goaltender Jake Allen made 26 saves, while Washington’s Charlie Lindgren stopped 22 shots to secure the win.
The Devils struggled early, allowing the first goal of the game for the seventh consecutive time. However, they have gone 4-3 in that stretch.
Takeaways:
- Capitals: Washington’s power play continues to improve, now operating at over 20% efficiency. Just a few weeks ago, they were at the bottom of the league in this category.
- Devils: New Jersey’s habit of conceding the first goal persisted, but they have managed to stay competitive despite this trend.
Key Moment: The Capitals capitalized on a 4-on-3 power-play advantage in the second period, with McMichael and Chychrun both scoring to give Washington the lead.
Key Stat: Since Alex Ovechkin’s absence, Washington has been red-hot on the power play, converting 8 of 20 opportunities in their last five games.
Up Next: The Capitals return home to face the San Jose Sharks on Tuesday, while the Devils head to Madison Square Garden to take on the New York Rangers on Monday.
