Washington Capitals improve playoff position with key win against Calgary Flames amid competitive NHL race.
On January 28, 2025, the Washington Capitals faced off against the Calgary Flames at the Scotiabank Saddledome, aiming to rebuild momentum following their recent setback. After ending their six-game winning streak with a disappointing loss to the Vancouver Canucks, the Capitals came to Calgary prepared to rekindle their winning ways against the Flames, who were holding onto the second wild card position in the Western Conference.
The stage was set as the Flames entered the contest with optimism, eager to leverage home ice support against one of the NHL's strongest teams. Calgary was coming off two solid home victories earlier this month and had players like Jonathan Huberdeau and Nazem Kadri on their front line, capable of shifting the game's dynamics with their scoring prowess.
The Capitals' strategy included capitalizing on their superior offensive abilities, particularly as the team was beginning to integrate Andrew Mangiapane back at the Saddledome after his recent transfer. Mangiapane, alongside marquee players like Alex Ovechkin and Dylan Strome, formed a formidable front. Dubois was also ready to contribute significantly to the Capitals' offensive attack.
Shortly after the puck dropped, the Capitals struck first at 1:51 of the opening period. Pierre-Luc Dubois scored his 11th goal of the season, catching the Flames off guard after they mishandled the puck. Thirty-three seconds later, Flames' rookie goalie Dustin Wolf faced pressure almost immediately from Capitals’ forwards as they tested him early on. Calgary's goaltender had to fend off multiple chances, including a breakaway opportunity from Ryan Lomberg.
Despite the Capitals holding onto the early lead, the Flames controlled much of the first period's pace, outshooting Washington 12 to 5. At intermission, Capitals held the narrow advantage, but the Flames were relentless.
The momentum shifted back to Calgary during the second period as Blake Coleman tied the game at 1-1 with his power play goal coming just seconds after the Capitals were penalized for too many men on the ice. Coleman tipped Tyson Barrie's shot successfully at 12:17 of the second period, giving the home fans reason to cheer.
But the Capitals were quick to respond, recapturing the lead just over two minutes later. Dylan Strome found the back of the net at 15:12, scoring his 13th goal of the season with assists from John Carlson and Jakob Chychrun, putting the Capitals back on top, 2-1. Shots remained competitive, with the Flames again leading the Capitals at 22-18 by the end of the second period.
The third period saw defensive strategies intensify with each team remaining within strikes distance of the other. The Flames were desperate for equalization and maintained consistent offensive pressure, but rookie Logan Thompson for the Capitals was proving his mettle. He had not allowed more than two goals per game in his last five outings.
Just as it seemed Calgary might find its way back, Aliaksei Protas extended the Capitals' lead to 3-1 with just under three minutes remaining, securing the game after receiving quick help from Lars Eller and T.J. van Riemsdyk. Protas caught the Flames off guard with his breakaway chance and converted, sealing the Capitals' victory.
When the final horn sounded, Calgary outshot Washington 33-23, demonstrating their offensive frustration throughout the game but unable to convert effectively against Thompson who again showed his importance to the Capitals as they lean toward playoff aspirations.
The victory puts the Capitals back on the winning track, reminding them of their elite status, whereas Calgary must address their strategies as they continue to fight for playoff position. The Capitals celebrated their win, fueling the confidence needed to push forward, still eager to maintain competitive success as they head toward the season's conclusion.
