Washington Capitals Dominate Edmonton Oilers 7-3: Ovechkin’s Hat-Trick Brings Him Closer to Gretzky’s Record

On February 23, 2025, at Capital One Arena in Washington, the Capitals delivered a commanding performance against the Edmonton Oilers, securing a resounding 7-3 victory. Team captain Alexander Ovechkin shined with a hat-trick (three goals in a single game), bringing his NHL career tally to 882 goals and leaving him just 12 shy of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record.

The game started with an early strike from the Oilers. At 1:42 of the first period, Leon Draisaitl capitalized on a power play, delivering a powerful slap shot (a strong shot with a full wind-up) past Charlie Lindgren. However, the Capitals quickly responded. Tom Wilson leveled the score at 17:15, finishing a precise pass from Pierre-Luc Dubois. Just before the period ended, at 19:36, Jakob Chychrun scored on the power play, sending the puck into the net off a perfect feed from Wilson.

The second period saw Washington further assert its dominance. At 28:53, Ovechkin extended the lead with a precise wrist shot (a shot made with a quick flick of the wrist) from the slot. Ten minutes later, at 38:39, he struck again, this time executing his signature one-timer (a shot taken directly off a pass without stopping the puck) from the left faceoff circle, following a setup by Chychrun. With just 15 seconds remaining in the second period, Connor McMichael made it 5-1, converting a sharp pass from John Carlson.

In the third period, Edmonton attempted a comeback. At 46:35, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins found the net after a well-orchestrated play involving Viktor Arvidsson and Zach Hyman. Yet, Washington remained unfazed. At 50:38, Dylan Strome scored on a rebound (a shot taken off a loose puck after an initial save) following a shot by Alexei Protas. At 55:05, Jeff Skinner narrowed the gap, but at 57:22, Ovechkin completed his hat-trick by burying the puck into the empty net after the Oilers pulled their goalie for an extra attacker.

Alexei Protas deserves special recognition for his playmaking, contributing three assists and showcasing his vision and chemistry with teammates. Jakob Chychrun also made a significant impact with a goal and an assist, playing a key role on both ends of the ice. Goaltender Charlie Lindgren made 22 saves, providing stability between the pipes.

On Edmonton’s side, Leon Draisaitl lived up to his reputation as one of the league’s top scorers by opening the scoring. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Jeff Skinner also registered goals, but overall, the team’s performance, particularly on defense, was lacking. Goalie Calvin Pickard managed 27 saves but struggled to withstand the Capitals’ relentless pressure.

This victory extended Washington’s point streak to eight games (5 wins, 3 overtime losses), solidifying their position at the top of the league with 84 points. Meanwhile, Edmonton’s third consecutive loss raises concerns about their playoff ambitions.

Overall, the game showcased Washington’s high-scoring prowess and the brilliance of its star players, especially Alexander Ovechkin, who continues his determined march toward breaking the historic all-time goal-scoring record in the NHL.

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Utah Hockey Club 5, Washington Capitals 4 (Shootout)

The Utah Hockey Club secured a 5-4 shootout victory over the Washington Capitals at Capital One Arena. Goaltender Karel Vejmelka was instrumental, making 30 saves after replacing the injured Connor Ingram in the first period. In the shootout, Nick Schmaltz netted the decisive goal. For Utah, Josh Doan, Dylan Guenther, and Jack McBain each contributed a goal and an assist during regulation. On the Capitals’ side, Tom Wilson had a standout performance with two goals and an assist, while Pierre-Luc Dubois added a goal and an assist, and Alex Ovechkin provided three assists. Despite trailing by two goals, Washington rallied with scores from Dylan Strome and a late equalizer by Wilson to force overtime. However, Utah prevailed in the shootout to clinch the win.

Stars of the Game:
• First Star: Karel Vejmelka (UTA) – 30 saves in relief, perfect in the shootout.
• Second Star: Tom Wilson (WSH) – Two goals and one assist, driving the Capitals’ offense.
• Third Star: Josh Doan (UTA) – One goal and one assist, contributing significantly to Utah’s regulation scoring.

Tampa Bay Lightning 5, Montreal Canadiens 3

The Tampa Bay Lightning extended their winning streak to four games with a 5-3 victory over the Montreal Canadiens at Bell Centre. Victor Hedman led the team with a goal and an assist, while Anthony Cirelli also recorded a goal and an assist. Zemgus Girgensons scored the game-winning goal, marking his first since April. Goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy was solid between the pipes, making 32 saves. The Lightning achieved this win despite the absence of top scorer Nikita Kucherov due to an upper-body injury. For the Canadiens, Brendan Gallagher scored twice, and Christian Dvorak added a goal. Rookie goalie Jakub Dobes was replaced after allowing three early goals. Cirelli sealed the game with an empty-net goal in the final moments.

Stars of the Game:
• First Star: Victor Hedman (TBL) – One goal and one assist, leading the team’s offense.
• Second Star: Brendan Gallagher (MTL) – Two goals, keeping the Canadiens competitive.
• Third Star: Andrei Vasilevskiy (TBL) – 32 saves, providing stability in net.

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Columbus Blue Jackets 3 – 4 New York Rangers

The New York Rangers edged out the Columbus Blue Jackets in a tightly contested battle that saw both teams exchange momentum throughout the night. The Rangers capitalized on their power play opportunities and demonstrated defensive resilience in the final period to hold onto their narrow lead. Columbus fought hard, pushing for an equalizer in the dying minutes but fell just short.
Star of the Game: Will Cuylle– Cuylle’s offensive leadership, including a crucial third-period goal, propelled the Rangers to victory.

Florida Panthers 5 – 1 Ottawa Senators

The Florida Panthers dominated the Ottawa Senators from start to finish with a high-tempo offense and suffocating defense. Florida opened the scoring early and never looked back, leaving the Senators struggling to keep up. Goaltending from the Panthers was stellar, limiting Ottawa’s scoring chances and keeping them to a single goal.

Star of the Game: Aleksander Barkov – Barkov led by example, netting one goal and providing a key assist in Florida’s rout.

Philadelphia Flyers 3 – 2 Pittsburgh Penguins

In a classic rivalry showdown, the Philadelphia Flyers emerged victorious over the Pittsburgh Penguins in a gritty and defensive affair. Both teams traded goals in the second period, but it was the Flyers’ disciplined play and late-game heroics that sealed the win. The Penguins pushed hard in the final minutes but were stonewalled by excellent goaltending.

Star of the Game: Travis Konecny – Konecny’s decisive third-period goal and relentless forechecking made the difference for the Flyers.

St. Louis Blues 6 – 5 Chicago Blackhawks (SO)

In an overtime thriller, the St. Louis Blues overcame the Chicago Blackhawks in a shootout after a back-and-forth regulation time. Both teams displayed offensive fireworks, with momentum shifting frequently. The Blues managed to pull ahead in the shootout, securing the win in a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Star of the Game: Braydon Schenn – Braydon tallied a pair of assists in regulation and netted the shootout.

Vancouver Canucks 2 – 1 Toronto Maple Leafs

The Vancouver Canucks eked out a narrow win over the Toronto Maple Leafs in a defensive battle. Both goaltenders were outstanding, but Vancouver’s opportunistic scoring and solid defensive structure were the keys to their success. Toronto struggled to capitalize on their chances and couldn’t find the equalizer late in the game.

Star of the Game: Thatcher Demko – Demko’s stellar performance in goal, including several highlight-reel saves, preserved the win for the Canucks.

Minnesota Wild 6 – 3 New York Islanders

The Minnesota Wild showcased their offensive prowess with a convincing win over the New York Islanders. The Wild’s fast-paced attack overwhelmed the Islanders’ defense, while Minnesota’s defense stifled New York’s attempts to close the gap. The Islanders made a brief push in the third period but were unable to mount a full comeback.

Star of the Game: Matthew Boldy– Matthew scored two goals and one assist, leading Minnesota’s offensive explosion.

Nashville Predators 6 – 4 Buffalo Sabres

The Nashville Predators came out on top in a high-scoring affair against the Buffalo Sabres. Both teams exchanged goals in a fast-paced game, but Nashville’s ability to capitalize on turnovers proved to be the deciding factor. The Predators’ depth scoring made the difference, keeping Buffalo at bay despite their persistent efforts.

Star of the Game: Filip Forsberg – Forsberg’s two-goal night, including a clutch third-period tally, secured the Predators’ victory.

Calgary Flames 2 – 3 Seattle Kraken (OT)

The Seattle Kraken secured an overtime victory against the Calgary Flames in a thrilling, closely matched game. Both teams played strong defensive hockey, but Seattle managed to capitalize on their scoring chance in overtime to seal the win. Calgary’s effort in regulation kept the game competitive, but they couldn’t hold on in extra time.

Star of the Game: Matty Beniers – Beniers scored the overtime winner, showcasing his clutch performance under pressure.

San Jose Sharks 3 – 8 Dallas Stars

The Dallas Stars unleashed an offensive onslaught on the San Jose Sharks, dominating the game from the opening face-off. Dallas controlled the pace, racking up goals in quick succession while stifling San Jose’s attempts to claw back into the game. The Sharks struggled defensively, unable to contain the relentless Stars attack.

Star of the Game: Matt Duchene– Matt was unstoppable, with two goals and one assist in the Stars’ blowout victory.

Los Angeles Kings 1 – 2 Anaheim Ducks (SO)

In a tense shootout battle, the Anaheim Ducks edged past the Los Angeles Kings after a tightly contested regulation and overtime period. Both teams showcased strong goaltending, with chances at both ends, but it was the Ducks who prevailed in the shootout with clutch performances.

Star of the Game: Leo Carlsson – Leo scored the shootout winner and was a key offensive catalyst throughout the game.

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New York Rangers 2, Pittsburgh Penguins 3

The Pittsburgh Penguins overcame the absence of captain Sidney Crosby to secure a 3-2 victory over the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. After trailing 1-0 in the first period, the Penguins rallied with three goals in the second. Michael Lizotte tied the game early in the period, followed by goals from Rickard Rakell and Philip Tomasino. Goaltender Alex Nedeljkobic made crucial saves in the third period to preserve the lead. For the Rangers, Vincent Trocheck and Adam Fox each scored, but their efforts fell short.

Stars of the Game:
• First Star: Michael Lizotte (PIT) – Game-tying goal in the second period.
• Second Star: Rickard Rakell (PIT) – Goal, contributing to the comeback.
• Third Star: Alex Nedeljkobic (PIT) – Solid goaltending, especially in the final period.

Winnipeg Jets 4, New York Islanders 3

Gabriel Vilardi led the Winnipeg Jets to their eighth consecutive win, scoring two goals in a 4-3 triumph over the New York Islanders at Canada Life Centre. Vilardi’s offensive prowess was complemented by goaltender Connor Hellebuyck’s 32 saves. The Islanders fought hard, but couldn’t overcome the Jets’ momentum.

Stars of the Game:
• First Star: Gabriel Vilardi (WPG) – Two goals, driving the team’s offense.
• Second Star: Connor Hellebuyck (WPG) – 32 saves, anchoring the defense.

Chicago Blackhawks 6, Nashville Predators 2

Ryan Donato had a career night, recording two goals and two assists, as the Chicago Blackhawks dominated the Nashville Predators 6-2 at United Center. Rookie sensation Connor Bedard added a goal and an assist, while goaltender Petr Mrazek stopped 31 shots. The Predators’ goals came from Filip Forsberg and Ryan O’Reilly, but they couldn’t match Chicago’s offensive surge.

Stars of the Game:
• First Star: Ryan Donato (CHI) – Four-point night, leading the offense.
• Second Star: Connor Bedard (CHI) – Goal and assist, showcasing his talent.
• Third Star: Petr Mrazek (CHI) – 31 saves, providing stability in net.

Colorado Avalanche 5, Edmonton Oilers 4

In a high-scoring affair, the Colorado Avalanche edged the Edmonton Oilers 5-4. The Avalanche’s offense was firing on all cylinders, with key contributions from their top players. The Oilers, led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, kept the game close but ultimately fell short.

Stars of the Game:
• First Star: Nathan MacKinnon (COL) – Goal and two assists, driving the offense.
• Second Star: Cale Makar (COL) – Goal and assist, solid defensive play.
• Third Star: Corey Perry (EDM) – Two goals.

Los Angeles Kings 5, Dallas Stars 4 (Shootout)

Kevin Fiala continued his scoring streak, netting a goal in regulation and the decisive tally in the shootout, as the Los Angeles Kings secured a 5-4 victory over the Dallas Stars at Crypto.com Arena. Phillip Danault contributed two assists, and goaltender David Rittich made 26 saves. For the Stars, Matt Duchene had a standout performance with two goals and an assist.

Stars of the Game:
• First Star: Kevin Fiala (LAK) – Goal and shootout winner, extending scoring streak.
• Second Star: Matt Duchene (DAL) – Two goals and an assist, leading the Stars’ offense.
• Third Star: Phillip Danault (LAK) – Two assists, facilitating key plays.

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Dallas Stars 5-3 Columbus Blue Jackets

Dallas continued their strong form with a confident win over Columbus. The Stars’ offensive depth shined as they controlled the tempo for most of the game. Columbus put up a fight, keeping the game competitive, but defensive lapses cost them in key moments. Dallas’ ability to capitalize on turnovers and execute on special teams proved to be the difference.

Star of the Match: Yevgeni Dadonov – Yevgeni was the offensive leader, scoring twice to guide Dallas to victory.

Florida Panthers 6-3 New York Islanders

Florida’s high-powered offense overwhelmed the Islanders in a dominant performance. The Panthers played aggressive, attacking hockey, consistently pressuring New York’s defense. The Islanders struggled to contain Florida’s top scorers and failed to respond with enough offensive production of their own. The Panthers’ speed and efficiency in front of goal secured a convincing win.

Star of the Match: Aleksander Barkov – Barkov was instrumental, tallying three assists while driving the Panthers’ offence.

New York Rangers 4-2 Vegas Golden Knights

The Rangers delivered a strong home victory, outplaying the Golden Knights in a well-balanced effort. New York’s defense was solid, limiting Vegas’ top forwards while maintaining consistent offensive pressure. The Golden Knights had moments of promise but couldn’t sustain momentum against a disciplined Rangers team.

Star of the Match: Artemi Panarin – Panarin was a key playmaker, scoring once and assisting two another, helping the Rangers control the game.

Utah 1-2 St. Louis Blues

St. Louis edged out Utah in a tightly contested battle. Both teams played a structured game, focusing on defensive responsibility. Utah put up a solid fight but struggled to break through the Blues’ disciplined backline. A late push from Utah wasn’t enough as St. Louis held on to secure a hard-fought win.

Star of the Match: Jordan Binnington – The Blues’ goaltender was excellent, making crucial saves to keep Utah from finding an equalizer.

Vancouver Canucks 2-3 Detroit Red Wings (OT)

Detroit secured an exciting overtime victory against Vancouver in a thrilling matchup. The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading scoring opportunities. The Red Wings showed resilience, responding to Vancouver’s pressure and ultimately clinching the win in extra time.

Star of the Match: Alex DeBrincat – Alex was the hero, scoring two goals, one of which was a game-winning goal in OT.

Seattle Kraken 2-3 Calgary Flames

Calgary emerged victorious in a close contest against Seattle. The Flames played with intensity, using their physicality to disrupt Seattle’s offensive rhythm. The Kraken fought hard, keeping the game close until the final minutes, but Calgary’s experience and composure made the difference.

Star of the Match: Yegor Sharangovich– scored one goal and one assist leading the Flames attack with creativity.

All NHL game overviews prepared by the team at https://icehockeyman.com/