Washington, D.C. — For the night of March 20, 2025, Alex Ovechkin did it again, scoring his 888th career goal in a nail-biting contest where the Washington Capitals edged out the Philadelphia Flyers, 3-2, at Capital One Arena. The Capitals, who now boast a record of 46-15-8, secured their playoff position, while the Flyers struggled with a dismal 28-34-8 record.
The Capitals took the lead early in the first period, with Ovechkin netting his 35th goal of the season at 14:25. Assists came from Aliaksei Protas and Trevor van Riemsdyk. The goal brought Ovechkin within eight goals of surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time mark of 894, igniting the crowd with chants of “Ovi! Ovi!”
After one period, both teams were tied in shot attempts, 13 each, but the Capitals were ahead on the scoreboard. The Flyers, despite their struggles this season, showcased promising plays early on, although they couldn’t match the Capitals’ offensive display.
As the second period unfolded, the Capitals quickly extended their lead. Brandon Duhaime deflected a shot into the net just 1:56 into the period, making it 2-0. Andrew Mangiapane added another goal at 11:06, bringing the score to 3-0. The Capitals demonstrated their offensive strength, controlling the game through two periods.
Moving into the third period, the Flyers managed to break nine straight periods without scoring when Ryan Poehling found the back of the net at 5:10. His goal revitalized the Flyers’ bench, who were desperate for momentum.
In a tense final period, the Flyers outshot the Capitals 17-2, showing determination to even the score. Although Charlie Lindgren stood strong in goal for Washington, making crucial saves, the Flyers saw hope when Sean Couturier scored with just 2:36 remaining, narrowing the deficit to 3-2 following a successful coach’s challenge on a previous no-goal call due to goaltender interference.
With the score close, the Flyers pressed hard for the equalizer. Travis Konecny nearly tied the game, but his shot hit the crossbar. The Capitals’ defense held firm, and despite pulling goaltender Samuel Ersson for an extra attacker, the Flyers fell short.
This victory not only marked a milestone for Ovechkin but also secured the Capitals’ spot in the playoffs; they became the first team to do so this season. “Our goal was to make the playoffs this year. It’s hard. Every game, it’s hard, especially at the end because every team is fighting,” Ovechkin said post-game.
The Capitals now have 100 points this season, reaching this milestone for the 10th time in the last 14 seasons. Meanwhile, the Flyers remain at the bottom of the Metropolitan Division with only 64 points, leaving head coach John Tortorella with much to address.
As both teams gear up for their next games, the Capitals will be hosting the Florida Panthers, while the Flyers are set to face the Dallas Stars. Both matchups are crucial as the postseason draws near.
