The Washington Capitals downed the Boston Bruins, 3-1, Tuesday afternoon at Capital One Arena. Aliaksei Protas scored twice and Logan Thompson stopped 26 of 27 shots faced for the win. The victory improves the Capitals’ record to 25-10-2 (52 points) on the season.
The Bruins opened the scoring less than two minutes in, thanks to a fortuitous bounce off the boards. Justin Brazeau pounced on the loose puck and finished, marking the earliest goal the Capitals have allowed all season. But Washington responded midway through the first period with Aliaksei Protas potting his 15th goal of the season, courtesy of strong play by Pierre-Luc Dubois and Tom Wilson. With just under three minutes left, Jakob Chychrun fired home the game-winner on the power play, giving the Capitals the lead at 2-1 as they headed to the first intermission.
Protas later secured the victory with an empty-net goal, solidifying the 3-1 final score. After starting goaltender Logan Thompson put on an impressive performance, he now sits tied for the franchise record for fewest appearances to reach 15 wins, matching Ilya Samsonov’s record. The Capitals have also won four straight games at home, showcasing their defensive tenacity, allowing just five goals during this stretch.
The first period was intense as Boston dominated early, leading to the opening goal. The Capitals, unwilling to back down, began to find their rhythm after absorbing the early shock. Protas’ tying goal came when Dubois worked diligently behind the net, setting up Protas perfectly from the low slot, leveling the score at 1-1. Meanwhile, Chychrun's slap shot from the right circle showcased his prowess and determination on the man advantage, marking his 11th goal of the season and solidifying his place among the league's top-scoring defensemen.
Despite being outshot overall—massively, at times—the Capitals demonstrated grit and resilience. The team managed only 27 shots on goal compared to the Bruins’ 31, yet their defensive efforts, coupled with Thompson’s sharp goaltending, proved decisive. Washington was two-for-two on the penalty kill and managed to thwart another sizeable onslaught from Boston, especially during the third period when the Bruins threatened to tie the game.
Throughout the matchup, it became evident the Capitals’ second line of Protas, Dubois, and Wilson was pivotal. Tom Wilson's performance, with two assists, was particularly noteworthy as he closed the game's scoring with Protas' empty-net goal. This win marked the Capitals’ second victory over the Bruins this season, rebounding well from their previous meeting’s 4-1 defeat.
Capitals coach Spencer Carbery commended his team's effort, stating, “We’re blocking shots, guys are laying out... they’re laying it on the line to try and find a way to win.” Carbery emphasized what appeared to be the team's commitment to grind out victories, regardless of how pretty they may seem.
Both teams had their moments, but the Capitals were adept at utilizing their defensive strategies. They effectively stifled the Bruins' offense, demonstrating significant improvement from past performances. Notably, Bruins coach Joe Sacco acknowledged the tight-checking nature of the game and the lack of opportunities for offense as key factors leading to their loss.
Heading forward, this game showcases the Capitals' strength and determination as they tackle the second half of the season. The offense is thriving, particularly thanks to Protas' remarkable second season which has seen him tally 16 goals so far, tying him with Alex Ovechkin and Connor McMichael for the team lead. Meanwhile, Chychrun's ascent as one of the best defensemen this season shines through as he continues to make significant contributions, both offensively and defensively.
With momentum on their side, the Capitals are set to face more challenges. They’ll need to sustain this level of play to remain competitive within their division and the league at large. Tonight's victory is certainly one to build upon as Washington prepares for its next matchup, showcasing their resilience and adaptability under pressure.
Fans can only hope to see more powerhouse performances as the team heads toward the playoffs, riding high off this hard-fought victory against the Bruins.