Alex Ovechkin hits the empty net in his return as Caps beat Maple Leafs (original) (raw)

Democracy Dies in Darkness

After missing 16 games with a broken leg, Ovechkin cashed in with the 869th goal of his career during a 5-2 win in Toronto.

Updated

December 28, 2024 at 10:57 p.m. ESTyesterday at 10:57 p.m. EST

Alex Ovechkin got his 869th career goal Saturday night in Toronto. (Frank Gunn/Canadian Press/AP)

TORONTO — In their last game before the NHL’s holiday break, the Washington Capitals looked in need of a breather. On Saturday night at Scotiabank Arena, following a four-day respite between games, the rejuvenated Capitals showed off the effects of that rest.

The Capitals scored five goals, their most since they notched six Nov. 30, as they beat the Toronto Maple Leafs, 5-2. Goaltender Logan Thompson made 35 saves on 37 shots for Washington, including a stunning denial with his glove in the first period. Matt Murray, making just his second start of the season, stopped 27 shots for Toronto.

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• Alex Ovechkin hits the empty net in his return as Caps beat Maple Leafs
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