DEVS LOSE, GET 2ND W.C.
Alex Ovechkin scored twice to make it an NHL-leading 49 goals as the host Washington Capitals beat the Devils 5-3 in each team’s regularseason finale.
By beating the Devils in regulation, the Metropolitan Division-champion Capitals ensured they wouldn’t face them in the first round of the playoffs. Playing without MVP front-runner Taylor Hall, New Jersey fell to the second wild card in the Eastern Conference and will open on the road against the Atlantic Division winner — either Boston or Tampa Bay.
l John Tavares scored 3:16 into overtime as the Islanders rallied for a 4-3 victory in the season finale on the road against the Red Wings.
l Minnesota Duluth squeaked into the NCAA Tournament — and celebrated like crazy when it was over. Karson Kuhlman had a goal and an assist, and the Bulldogs beat Notre Dame 2-1 to win the school’s second NCAA hockey championship.