Context:

Capitals rallied to defeat the Devils 4-2 in Washington, with Ryan Leonard delivering the decisive third-period goal and adding an insurance tally late. Alex Ovechkin also scored as the Capitals snapped a 2-2 tie to move to 2-1-0 on the season. Darcy Kuemper anchored the win in goal, turning aside numerous chances. The Devils were led by Jack Hughes and Dougie Hamilton, while Mackenzie Blackwood stopped 24 shots. Washington heads home to host the Penguins, while New Jersey visits Philadelphia next.

Dive Deeper:

• Leonard's second goal came at 7:15 of the third period to put the Capitals ahead 3-2, followed by an empty-net score with 1:12 left to seal the victory.

• Alex Ovechkin scored for Washington, contributing to the late-bridge effort that broke the 2-2 deadlock.

• Darcy Kuemper made the key saves for the Capitals, helping preserve their lead during a tense late stretch.

• For New Jersey, Jack Hughes and Dougie Hamilton each found the net, while Mackenzie Blackwood finished with 24 saves.

• The game swung on a sequence where Washington shifted from a tied contest to a late surge that yielded the deciding goals.