The Washington Capitals were determined to end a three-game losing streak on Sunday night in Buffalo, but it was not realistic of us expect them to sustain that enthusiasm for longer than a Ramones song
The Caps burst out to an early lead, notching two goals in the first 135 seconds — a rebound from Strome, back from injury, and a give-and-go from Protas with the help of Connor McMichael. Washington looked triumphant for all of 15 seconds, which is when Tage Thompson got a sweet setup from Jason Zucker below the goal line. Alex Tuch tucked the puck under Chuck to tie the game, and Isak Rosen (awesome hockey name) banked a shot off Martin Fehervary to give Buffalo a 3-2 lead after one period.
The second period featured just one goal, but it was a good one. Sonny Milano tied the game with a deflection. It was his first goal in 567 days.
Referees Garret Rank and Liam Maaskant gave the Caps three power plays in the third period, and they did positively butt with it. Tied 3-3 after three, on we went to overtime. There the Capitals had absolute control over the puck but did nothing with it.
Shootout bullets!
- Quinn did NOT put the biscuit in the basket.
- Strome did NOT put the biscuit in the basket.
- Thompson did NOT put the biscuit in the basket.
- Beauvillier did NOT put the biscuit in the basket.
- Tuch did NOT put the biscuit in the basket. Postage.
- McMichael did NOT put the biscuit in the basket.
- Dahlin did NOT put the biscuit in the basket.
- Ovechkin did NOT put the biscuit in the basket.
- Byram put the biscuit in the basket. Finally, was wondering if that was possible.
- Leonard did NOT put the biscuit in the basket.
Caps lose. Four games in a row:
- Tom Wilson did a lot. Arguably too much. He assisted on Protas’ goal in the first period, and then recorded, um, 19 penalty minutes before intermission. He got caught lipping at ex-friend/fake-friend Beck Malenstyn (unsportsmanlike conduct), and then he interceded for Jakub Chychrun in a fight against Jordan Greenway, who seconds earlier had put an illegal check to the head of Declan Chisholm, of the New Haven Chisholms, what summer in the Vineyard.
- Chisholm got pulled by the concussion spotter but returned to the game.
- Aliaksei Protas rang the post in the second period. I looked it up, and it turns out that was the 19th time the Caps have narrowly missed a goal in this still-young season. Only five teams have more.
- Alex Ovechkin took a faceoff in the third period. One day I’m going to look up the last time that happened, and I’m gonna search for that text, and I’m gonna find this recap. Ovi sure as heck didn’t score on any of his three shots. He came closer to giving Buffalo a goal — a possible shorty in the third period.
- Sonny Milano scored for the first time since April 13, 2024. He had two that game, setting a new career high. Chris had recap duty, and he remarked on how impactful Milano is when healthy. Hmm. Yeah. Should of played him in the shootout.
- I’m still rooting for Charlie Lindgren to get his game back on track. He allowed three goals in the first period: two more than expected (i.e. how league-average goalies fare on the same profile of shots).
- This was my first recap in a couple weeks, and I had this fantasy that I’d be the one to write about the Caps power play finally turning it around. This would be the game when they’d start scoring. No. No, this was not that game. The team still has to do some fine-tuning on PP details like finishing chances, generating chances, zone entries, making crisp passes, making any passes at all, skating– forward or in other directions, demonstrates personal responsibility, is a good listener, attendance.
The Caps now have three days off to sit at the foot of their beds, towel over the heads, heads in their hands, dead-eye stare into the middle distance, thinking about the power play and cursing in their tongues.
I don’t know what they’re doing wrong. I think they should start with everything and narrow it down from there. Blues on Wednesday.
Maxx Crosby Makes History with Groundbreaking Contract Extension: A Game-Changer for the Las Vegas Raiders’ Defense
In a monumental move that solidifies his place among the elite pass rushers in the NFL, Maxx Crosby has officially inked a 3-year, $106.5 million extension with the Las Vegas Raiders. The new deal, which includes a staggering $91.5 million in guarantees, not only makes Crosby one of the highest-paid defensive players in the league, but also reaffirms the Raiders’ commitment to building a ferocious defense around their star edge rusher.
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Crosby, who has been a cornerstone of the Raiders’ defense since being drafted in 2019, had established himself as one of the most dominant forces on the edge. With 60+ sacks, multiple Pro Bowl selections, and a relentless work ethic, Crosby has earned the reputation of a game-wrecker. This new contract marks a significant reward for his production and leadership.
A Contract Fit for a Superstar
The $106.5 million extension, which averages $35.5 million per year, is a historic deal not only for Crosby but for the Raiders as well. It places Crosby firmly in the ranks of the NFL’s most highly compensated defenders, alongside the likes of Aaron Donald and T.J. Watt. The staggering $91.5 million in guaranteed money underscores the Raiders’ belief in Crosby’s long-term impact, not only on the field but also as a leader in the locker room.
The contract ensures that Crosby remains a Raider through the 2028 season, providing both the team and fans with stability on the defensive line. With Crosby anchoring their front seven, the Raiders have a premier pass rusher capable of disrupting opposing offenses at every turn.
The Raiders’ Path to Defensive Dominance
For the Raiders, this move is a clear signal that they’re building a defense that can compete at the highest levels. Crosby's ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks and impact games has made him the focal point of the defense since day one. This contract extension guarantees that he will remain a constant presence in the silver and black for years to come.
Raiders’ General Manager, Dave Ziegler, expressed his excitement over the deal, emphasizing Crosby’s unmatched leadership and relentless pursuit of greatness. "Maxx is the type of player who sets the standard for everyone around him. This contract reflects his importance to our team and the organization," said Ziegler in a statement. "He’s earned this deal, and we’re excited to see him continue to lead us on defense."
Crosby’s Unwavering Dedication to Excellence
Maxx Crosby’s journey to stardom has been nothing short of remarkable. Overcoming a challenging start to his career, Crosby has consistently shown that his dedication and work ethic set him apart from his peers. His relentless motor and commitment to improving year after year have made him one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL.
"I’m just getting started," Crosby said after the announcement. "This isn’t just about the money. It’s about legacy. I want to bring championships to Las Vegas, and I’ll do whatever it takes to make that happen."
What’s Next for Crosby and the Raiders?
With Crosby locked in for the next three years, the Raiders can now look forward to a continued defensive resurgence. The team’s next step will be to build around Crosby and ensure that the defense continues to evolve into one of the league’s top units.
Crosby’s contract not only elevates him as a top-tier edge rusher, but it also sends a powerful message to the rest of the NFL: the Las Vegas Raiders are serious about returning to prominence, and Maxx Crosby will be leading the charge.
As the Raiders prepare for the second half of the 2025 season, all eyes will be on Crosby to see if he can continue his dominance and push Las Vegas into playoff contention. With his new deal in place, there’s no doubt that Crosby is ready to prove he’s worth every penny — and then some.
