WASHINGTON (AP) — The St. Louis Blues made their playoff push all the more serious with a decisive win against the Washington Capitals, defeating them 5-2 on Thursday night at Capital One Arena. This victory moves the Blues closer to securing the final playoff position available in the Western Conference and hands the Capitals their second consecutive loss.
Philip Broberg made headlines with two impressive goals, contributing significantly to his team's triumph. Dylan Holloway also added to the scoreboard, along with Colton Parayko, and Jake Neighbours capped off the night with an empty-net goal. This win marks the Blues' third consecutive victory, positioning them favorably as they approach the NHL trade deadline set for March 7.
General Manager Doug Armstrong's strategic decisions are paying off, particularly with the signings of Broberg and Holloway, who were acquired from Edmonton. The Blues capitalized on these moves, with Broberg and Holloway both playing pivotal roles throughout the game. Backup goalie Joel Hofer stepped up, delivering 16 saves against Washington's aggressive offense.
On the other hand, the Capitals were shorthanded due to Tom Wilson being scratched late with illness. This loss is significant, as it marks the first time since December 16-17 for the Capitals to lose two games consecutively since their impressive run earlier this season.
The scoring kicked off early for the Blues. At 11:14 of the first period, Broberg showcased his talent with a well-placed one-timer off of Mathieu Joseph's cross-ice pass, putting St. Louis on the board. By the end of the first period, the Capitals found themselves leveled as Pierre-Luc Dubois executed a deke to finish off a three-way pass from Connor McMichael and Taylor Raddysh, tying the game at one apiece.
Midway through the game, the Blues regained their lead at 2-1 when Broberg struck again, deftly maneuvering on a breakaway after banked pass play from Neighbours. The Capitals adjusted and managed to equalize again when Connor McMichael fired a wrist shot over Hofer's glove late in the second period. It was McMichael’s third goal against the Blues during the season.
Not to be outdone, the Blues responded swiftly as Holloway and Parayko scored back-to-back goals just 35 seconds apart to regain control. Holloway’s goal came after he tipped Ryan Suter's shot, marking his 18th goal of the season. Parayko followed up with his own goal after capitalizing on the chaotic play around the net, sending the Blues up 4-2 before the end of the second period.
Despite spirited play from the Capitals, the Blues managed to secure their victory, even with Neighbours scoring the empty-netter as the game wound down. This match's outcome not only boosts the Blues' standings but also showcases the tenacity and resilience within the team, especially during captain Brayden Schenn's 1,000th regular-season game.
The Capitals are now left to regroup and rethink their strategy as they head to face the Tampa Bay Lightning next. Despite maintaining their position at the top of the Metropolitan Division, this recent dip raises concerns about their midseason form.
With only 23 games remaining this season, the pressures of the upcoming trade deadline increase for both teams. For the Blues, the hopes of achieving playoff contention and possibly adding to their roster loom large, especially with every game counting now more than ever. The excitement continues as the teams prepare for their next matches, ensuring fans are on the edge of their seats.