Ovechkin helps Caps even series at 1-1
LAS VEGAS - As Washington Capitals captain, Alex Ovechkin is supposed to show teammates the way to overcome whatever adversity comes their way.
Ovechkin, 32, did exactly that Wednesday when he helped the Capitals cope with the loss of injured center Evgeny Kuznetsov by delivering an important power-play goal to help Washington post a 3-2 win against the Vegas Golden Knights to tie the best-of-seven series, 1-1.
The big issue now for the Capitals is the health of Kuznetsov, their leading point producer, who had to leave the game with an undisclosed injury after taking a heavy check from Vegas defenseman Brayden McNabb with 5:22 left in the first period. At the time, the Golden Knights were leading, 1-0.
In Kuznetsov’s absence, several Capitals stepped up to fill the void. Center Lars Eller, who moved up to play with Ovechkin, tied the game with 2:33 left in the first period. He finished with a goal and two assists.
Ovechkin scored a power play goal at 5:38 of the second period to give the Capitals the lead for good.
Defenseman Brooks Orpik then scored his third career goal in 146 playoff games and his first goal since February 2016 to increase Washington’s lead to 3-1.
Vegas defenseman Shea Theodore then cut the Golden Knights’ deficit to a goal with a power-play tally with 2:13 left in the second period.
In the third period, the Capitals penalty killers provided a boost, thwarting a 5-on-3 opportunity for 68 seconds.
While the Capitals were facing 5on-3 and 5-on-4 short-handed situations, Braden Holtby made nine saves. Holtby also made a big stick save on Alex Tuch late in the third period.
Before this season, the Capitals have a long history of playoff frustration. But they have proved to be resilient and resourceful this season.
Ovechkin has led the way - by example and with production. He now has 13 goals in the playoffs.
Kuznetsov immediately grabbed at his left wrist after being flattened against the boards by McNabb late in the opening period at T-Mobile Arena.
Capitals players and fans were incensed that the play did not result in a penalty.