WINNIPEG, Manitoba (AP) — The Winnipeg Jets secured their playoff berth with a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory over the Washington Capitals on March 25, 2025, at the Canada Life Centre, showcasing a matchup between the NHL's top teams that felt as intense as a Stanley Cup playoff game.
Nikolaj Ehlers became the hero for the Jets, scoring the decisive goal just 1:28 into the overtime period after a picturesque breakout pass from Dylan Samberg. Ehlers flew down the right wing and wristed a shot over the blocker of Capitals' goaltender Logan Thompson, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Prior to Ehlers’ heroics, the teams exchanged blows in a competitive contest that featured remarkable performances from both sides. Josh Morrissey opened the scoring for Winnipeg at 6:50 of the first period, firing a slap shot past Thompson, assisted by Mark Scheifele and Dylan DeMelo.
However, the Capitals responded late in the first with Andrew Mangiapane’s wrist shot at 19:21, leveling the score at 1-1 and extending his goal streak to three games.
The Jets regained control in the second period with Mason Appleton scoring at 19:48, putting Winnipeg ahead again. With a cross-ice pass from Nino Niederreiter, Appleton sought a high shot that found its target, pushing the Jets to a 2-1 lead.
But the Capitals, led by their captain Alex Ovechkin, produced a strong push in the third period. Ovechkin tied the game at 16:00 with his 889th career goal, rifling a shot over Connor Hellebuyck's blocker after a swift passing play. His scoring feat had him just five goals shy of tying Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record.
Despite a spirited performance from the Capitals, with Thompson stopping 22 shots, the Jets held steadfast. Connor Hellebuyck made 27 saves to secure the win for Winnipeg, demonstrating his prowess under pressure.
This victory allowed the Jets to clinch their spot for the playoffs while keeping them eight points clear of the Dallas Stars in the Central Division. The Jets have also had remarkable success in overtime, marking it as their 11th extra-time win this season.
"It was a playoff game, like playoff mentality. Physicality was there as well. So, yeah, it was a good one," Ovechkin remarked following the game, acknowledging the intense atmosphere.
Game Summary:
- Shots: 29 (Washington) - 25 (Winnipeg)
- Hits: 17 (Washington) - 15 (Winnipeg)
- Face-offs: 53.8% (Washington)
- X Goals: 1.74 (Washington) - 1.69 (Winnipeg)
The Jets’ next game is against the New Jersey Devils on March 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM CST. With both teams facing the pressure of the final season stretch, the stage is set for more exciting hockey.
