Both the Caps and the Senators are desperately chasing a playoff spot so we knew this game was going to be close. Neither are likely to make the postseason, but both teams showed up like they were. The Caps came out on top with a solid win while showing off their top prospect, Cole Hutson, in his debut.
Plus: Special teams, or the lack thereof, are the main reason the Caps are not in a playoff position. Notably, their penalty kill went from fourth in the league last season to hovering around 20th for most of this season until recently. But the Caps were perfect on the PK tonight, extending their streak to 14 kills. It would have been nice to have that all season, but maybe it’s something they can build on to end this season on a good note and be better next season.
Minus: Though the Caps won, they were probably lucky they did it in regulation or at all. The Senators had some great chances and if it wasn’t for Logan Thompson and some luck, the game could have gone the other way. But with the way the Caps season has gone, you can’t be too upset with that.
Caps Player of the Game: It should go to Logan Thompson, but let’s give it to Hutson in his first game. He scored into the empty net for his first NHL goal, and it was clear why he’s arguably the best defensive prospect in the NHL. He’s a smooth skating player with great vision, passing ability, and shot. He showed off a couple plays that made you go “wow”. The future is promising for that kid and the Capitals.