Since the Capitals went on their bye week, their once insurmountable lead in the standings has disappeared. But as the Metropolitan’s contenders have bottlenecked, the Capitals have found their groove again, winning five consecutive games.
Tuesday in Minnesota, TJ Oshie rescued the team from a potential late-game collapse, one-timing a puck past Devan Dubnyk in three-on-three overtime for the 5-4 win. The Caps now hold a three-point lead over Columbus and a five-point lead over Pittsburgh for the Metropolitan Division crown.
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Can't stop this man #CapsWild @csnma pic.twitter.com/9rMNWntKWN
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) March 29, 2017
Oshie’s goal was set up brilliantly by Marcus Johansson. After Johansson and Oshie failed to connect on a rush to the net, Mojo picked up the rebound and proceeded to put on the jets. Johansson curled around a Wild skater and hit Oshie again, but this time for the game-winner.
The goal was Oshie’s second of the night and 32nd of the season while the assist was Johansson’s fourth of the game.
Of course the boys had to engage in a big group hug.
The Capitals saw their 4-2 third-period lead disappear after allowing consecutive goals to Jared Spurgeon and Eric Staal. Staal’s goal came with only 27 seconds remaining after a blown offside call.
The Caps will fly to Colorado and try to extend their winning streak to six games Wednesday night. And hopefully this time without needing similar late-game heroics.
Headline photo: Bruce Kluckhohn
