Evgeny Kuznetsov, Alex Ovechkin, and Dmitry Orlov showcased their chemistry and form as the Washington Capitals secured a 4-3 win over the New Jersey Devils on Thursday night. All three Russian players found the back of the net, with Kuznetsov scoring twice, Ovechkin continuing his scoring streak, and Orlov adding a goal to help the Capitals win eight of their last nine games.
Kuznetsov, who missed eight games while recovering from COVID-19, has steadily regained his form, contributing three goals and six assists in the last eight games. “After the long break due to COVID, it wasn’t easy to get back into hockey shape,” Kuznetsov said. “I hope to keep improving, and I believe the team will continue improving.”
The Capitals, who briefly lost their top spot in the East Division, bounced back with timely responses to each Devils goal. Nick Merkley scored for New Jersey after a Vitek Vanecek turnover, but Orlov responded just 1:47 later. When Miles Wood tied the game midway through the second period, Ovechkin quickly answered with his 15th goal of the season. Kuznetsov then put the Capitals ahead twice, including the game-winner in the third period.
“The most important shifts are at the start of a period and after a goal,” said Wood. “We came out flat after we scored, and it cost us.”
The Devils and other teams in the East have learned that any mistakes can be costly against the Capitals, especially with Ovechkin and Kuznetsov finding their rhythm again. After being sidelined in January for violating NHL COVID-19 protocols, the trio had struggled to regain their form, but they are now showing their full potential.
“It’s so hard to find your game, and it’s so easy to lose it,” Kuznetsov said. “I hope we’re heading in the right direction, understanding the system, and executing our plays.”
Kuznetsov’s recent surge includes nine points in the last eight games, while Ovechkin has netted eight goals in his last nine. Orlov has also found his form, scoring three goals in his last nine games after a slow start to the season.
“It’s great to see them respond the way they have,” said Capitals coach Peter Laviolette. “They’re getting stronger and stronger as they shake off the effects of earlier setbacks.”
Ovechkin is now just 10 goals away from tying Marcel Dionne for fifth place on the NHL’s all-time goals list. Meanwhile, Laviolette praised Orlov’s recent performances, and Kuznetsov’s resurgence has been a key factor in the team’s success.
GAME NOTES:
- Vitek Vanecek overcame an early mistake that led to a goal by Nick Merkley, finishing with 21 saves for his 14th win of the season.
- Lars Eller missed his fifth consecutive game with a lower-body injury, leaving his status uncertain for upcoming games.
- T.J. Oshie filled in at both right wing and center, showcasing his versatility in Eller’s absence.
UP NEXT:
- The Capitals continue their series against the Devils and then face the New York Rangers while the Devils look to rebound as they remain in the East Division playoff race.
