Capitals Overtime

The Washington Post - 2012 NHL playoffs: Alex Ovechkin Helps Capitals Get Even With Rangers [LINK]

Despite playing less, Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin came up big when his teammates needed him. With the game locked at two goals apiece, Ovechkin shot a laser through several screens at 7:27 of the third period, which became the eventual game-winner. That game-winning goal sent the series back to Washington at an even 1-1 series.

Mike Knuble and Jason Chimera also had goals and netminder Braden Holtby made 26 saves in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.

While Ovechkin faced questions about his ice time from the media, he answered by saying the most important thing right now is to “just win the series and win the game.” He also said he wants to win and will do whatever it takes to come out with that such outcome.

Despite Ovechkin’s reduction in ice time though, Hunter said not many could come out and score a goal like Ovechkin did last night. In his 4:22 of time on the ice in the final frame, Ovechkin recorded four shots on net including the game-winning tally.

The Washington Post - Stanley Cup Playoffs 2012: Alex Ovechkin vs. Zdeno Chara Matchup Could Affect Capitals - Bruins Outcome [LINK]

As the Boston Bruin and the Washington Capitals get ready to face off on Thursday the biggest matchup that’s being focused on is the one between Bruins blueliner Zdeno Chara and Caps’ captian Alex Ovechkin. Both players look forward to playing against each other, expressing their desire to competing against the best.

Since Chara joined the Bruins during the 2006-07 season, Ovechkin has recorded 25 points (10 goals, 15 assists) in 21 games, but has only scored one goal and seven assists in the last two years. Ovechkin’s last tally against Boston came on Nov. 5, 2010.

During yesterday’s practice, Ovechkin was skating on a line with Troy Brouwer and Brooks Laich - a line that’s been used in the past to counteract opponents’ physicality and size. Caps’ winger Brouwer also pointed out ways to make room for Ovechkin would be by cutting off Chara from the rest of the Bruins, to give him less options and to keep him as far away from the puck as possible.