Hot Top Line Powers Capitals Past Predators 3-2
It was a nail-biter of a game, but the Capitals managed to squeak out a 3-2 win over the Predators on Tuesday night. The Caps' top line was on fire, with Ovi, Backstrom, and Kuznetsov combining for all three goals.
The first period was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams getting some good chances. The Predators were the first to get on the board, when Ryan Johansen scored a power-play goal. But the Capitals answered right back, when Alex Ovechkin ripped a shot past Juuse Saros to tie the game at one.
The second period was a bit more physical, with both teams playing with a lot of intensity. The Capitals took the lead early in the period, when Nicklas Backstrom scored a beautiful goal off a pass from Evgeny Kuznetsov. The Predators were able to tie the game again later in the period, when Filip Forsberg scored a goal off a rebound.
The third period was all about the Caps' top line. Kuznetsov scored the game-winning goal, just minutes into the period, giving the Capitals the lead for good. The Predators made a late push, but Vitek Vanecek stood tall in goal to secure the victory.
Vanecek made some key saves, including a couple of incredible stops on Forsberg and Johansen. The Predators put up a good fight, but the Capitals were just too much for them on this night.
The win was a good one for the Caps, especially after losing their previous game. They'll need to keep up the good work if they want to stay in the race for a playoff spot.
Key Takeaways:
- The Capitals' top line is playing at a high level right now. They were the difference-makers in this game. Ovi's back to his goal-scoring ways.
- Vitek Vanecek is playing with a lot of confidence. He's been a key reason for the Caps' recent success.
- The Predators are a tough team to beat, but the Capitals were able to find a way to get the win.
This game was a good reminder that every game in the NHL is a battle. The Capitals are a team that is always looking to get better and they showed that on Tuesday night.
Here are some more details about the game:
- The Capitals outshot the Predators 35-25.
- The Predators went 1-for-3 on the power play.
- The Capitals went 1-for-2 on the power play.
The Capitals will look to build on this win when they host the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday night.