Fri Mar 07 06:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Capitals Edge Rangers in Overtime Thriller, Ovechkin Inches Closer to Gretzky’s Record
**New York, NY** – The Washington Capitals overcame a late-game deficit to defeat the New York Rangers 3-2 in overtime Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden. Tom Wilson scored the game-winning goal at 4:07 of overtime, assisted by Dylan Strome, securing a hard-fought victory for the Capitals.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows. Washington took an early 1-0 lead on a goal by Pierre-Luc Dubois just over a minute into the first period, assisted by Wilson. The Rangers responded with goals from Artemi Panarin, who deflected a shot from Zac Jones, tying the game at 1-1, and later Sam Carrick, giving the Rangers a 2-1 lead in the second period.
Alex Ovechkin, nearing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record, scored his 885th career goal on a power play in the third period, tying the game at 2-2. Ovechkin’s goal was a crucial moment in the Capitals’ comeback, and brings him one step closer to Gretzky’s record of 894.
The Capitals’ goaltender, Charlie Lindgren, was instrumental in the victory, making several key saves throughout the game. The Capitals’ penalty kill also performed exceptionally well, successfully killing off multiple Rangers power plays. The final period saw a noticeable shift in momentum, with the Rangers managing only four shots on goal in the final 24 minutes of regulation and overtime.
Coach Spencer Carbery praised his team’s resilience and determination, highlighting the physicality of the game and the team’s ability to overcome adversity. Players on both sides were visibly injured throughout the contest.
The victory extends the Capitals’ winning streak to two games, both of which went beyond regulation. The win keeps the Capitals firmly in the lead of the Metropolitan Division and Eastern Conference standings as they head into the final 20 games of the regular season.