Articles / Ovechkin scores 1st goal of season, Capitals cruise past Wild

Ovechkin scores 1st goal of season, Capitals cruise past Wild

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NHL.com
Oct 18, 2025 2:02 AM

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In an electrifying matchup on October 17, 2025, the Minnesota Wild clashed with the Washington Capitals, showcasing a thrilling display of hockey prowess. The game took place at the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, with fans on the edge of their seats as both teams fought for crucial points in the standings.

The Wild first struck when Kirill Kaprizov found the back of the net in the first period, sending a wave of excitement through Minnesota supporters. His swift wrist shot from the left circle proved too much for Capitals goaltender Darcy Kuemper to handle. However, the Capitals quickly retaliated with Alex Ovechkin showcasing his unmatched goal-scoring ability, leveling the score with a power-play goal that ignited the home crowd.

As the game progressed, both teams exhibited relentless offensive pressure. Minnesota's Marc-Andre Fleury made several key saves, keeping the game tied. Yet, it was the Capitals who pulled ahead in the third period, thanks to a stunning one-timer from Evgeny Kuznetsov, giving Washington the 3-2 lead. Despite the Wild's late-game surge, they were unable to find an equalizer, ultimately falling short in a nail-biting finish.

With this victory, the Capitals continue to solidify their position in the playoff race, while the Wild will need to regroup and refocus ahead of their next challenge. The performance of both teams exemplified the fierce competition in the NHL, reminding fans why they love the game.