T.J. Oshie scored just 24 seconds into the game, and the Washington Capitals converted on 4-6 powerplay chances Wednesday night in crushing the Boston Bruins 7-0 in the season opener for both teams at Capital One Arena in Washington, on a night where the Capitals celebrated their 2018 Stanley Cup win.
Evgeny Kuznetsov added a first period goal as well just 1:23 after the opening goal from Oshie. Alex Ovechkin, Nic Dowd, a second goal from Kuznetsov, and a John Carlson marker in a span of 11:28 of the second period led to Washington running away with the game at 6-0. Lars Eller added a third period tally. Ovechkin, Oshie, and Carlson each had a goal and an assist each, while Niklas Backstrom added three assists. Braden Holtby stopped all 25 shots he faced for the shutout. Tukka Rask started in net for Boston, but was pulled 7:28 into the middle period finishing with 14 saves on 19 shots. Jaroslav Halak made 16 saves on 18 shots in the final 32:28 of action.
Boston will try again for their first win of 2018-19 season when they visit Buffalo Thursday night. Faceoff is scheduled for 7 pm.
