The Washington Capitals are riding a wave of momentum, having strung together three consecutive wins for the first time since early December. This resurgence comes after a slump where they managed only two victories in nine games. The Capitals' improved play has boosted them to a 4-1-1 record in their last six games. With 25 games remaining in the season, the Capitals have a record of 28-22-7 and are approaching each game with a playoff mentality.

Key Factors Behind the Winning Streak

Several elements have contributed to the Capitals' recent success.

• Unexpected Players Stepping Up: The Capitals have received significant contributions from players who might not always be in the spotlight. Nic Dowd, a veteran fourth-liner, has been a key player, contributing two goals, an assist, and a shootout winner during the streak. Declan Chisholm, a defenseman who has seen limited playing time, scored his first goal of the season in the winning stretch. Young forward Hendrix Lapierre also broke a lengthy goal drought, adding another boost to the team's offense.
• Goaltending: With injuries to both regular goaltenders, Logan Thompson and Charlie Lindgren, Clay Stevenson has stepped up. Stevenson secured his first NHL victory in his first start this season and followed it up with another strong performance, stopping 29 of 30 shots in a 4-1 victory against the New York Islanders.
• Timely Scoring: In the recent game against the Islanders, the Capitals demonstrated their ability to capitalize on opportunities, scoring four unanswered goals after conceding an early lead. Martin Fehervary and Anthony Beauvillier scored just 31 seconds apart in the second period, shifting the game's momentum.

What the Team is Saying

Capitals center Nic Dowd emphasized the importance of the team's commitment to playing in the offensive zone. "I just think when we commit to getting pucks in deep... our game comes below the tops of the circles in the [offensive] zone," Dowd stated. He also highlighted the crucial role of the defensemen in making plays in the offensive zone.

Coach Spencer Carbery noted the team's heightened sense of urgency, stating, "Our urgency level hasn't been higher this year... guys understand the significance that essentially our season's on the line and our playoff lives are on the line".

Looking Ahead

The Capitals are aiming to extend their winning streak to four games as they face the Philadelphia Flyers. The Capitals are currently fourth in the Metropolitan Division. The Capitals are now within two points of the New York Islanders for third place in the division. The Capitals have a record of 11-3-0 when they commit fewer penalties than their opponents. Tonight's game marks the first of four meetings between the Capitals and Flyers this season. Aliaksei Protas is expected to play in his 300th career game.