WASHINGTON — Adam Fantilli scored two goals, and goalie Jet Greaves stopped 29 shots, securing his third victory in just four days. The Columbus Blue Jackets kept their playoff hopes alive by defeating the Washington Capitals, who lead the Eastern Conference.
Columbus dominated Washington with an 11-1 scoring margin in their weekend series. This win marks their fourth consecutive victory. To clinch the final wild card spot in the East, the Blue Jackets need to win their remaining two regular-season games and rely on favorable outcomes from Montreal`s opponents.
Alex Ovechkin marked his record-extending 896th career goal, giving Washington an early 1-0 lead. However, Columbus responded with goals from Zach Werenski, Fantilli, and Dmitri Voronkov, maintaining their push for a playoff berth.
MAPLE LEAFS 4, HURRICANES 1
In another game, the Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 4-1, highlighted by Morgan Rielly`s three assists and Joseph Woll`s 25 saves.