Calgary Flames moved into a playoff spot Tuesday night with a 3-1 victory over the Washington Capitals, despite Alex Ovechkin getting one step closer to breaking Wayne Gretzky’s NHL career goals record.
Ovechkin scored his 883rd career goal five minutes into the third period, moving within 12 of Gretzky’s record of 894. The goal also marked Ovechkin’s 30th of the season, reaching that milestone for the 19th time in his 20-year career.
The Capitals couldn’t overcome the 2-0 deficit despite Ovechkin’s goal. Logan Thompson stopped 22 of 25 shots in the loss.
Washington’s 16-game home point streak ended with the defeat, their first regulation loss at Capital One Arena since November 23.
Matt Coronato, Martin Pospisil and Jonathan Huberdeau scored for Calgary, while Dan Vladar made 26 saves.
The Flames have won two straight games following the NHL’s 4 Nations Face-Off break.
With the win, Calgary jumped ahead of Pacific Division-rival Vancouver for the second wild card spot in the Western Conference.
Team Performances
Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson acknowledged before the game it would “be a dogfight” to secure a playoff position. Calgary’s work ethic has helped compensate for any talent gaps against higher-ranked opponents.
The Capitals struggled to maintain momentum after scoring 15 goals in two wins over the weekend.
Game Highlights
Coronato’s first-period goal proved decisive when he caught up to the puck and fired a shot into the top-left corner past Thompson. It was his 15th goal this season.
Ovechkin became just the fourth player to score 30 or more goals in a season at age 39 or older.
Up Next
The Flames visit Tampa Bay on Thursday, while the Capitals host St. Louis.
