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Washington Capitals' Powerplay Sparks but Vancouver Canucks Hold Firm at Rogers Arena

The Washington Capitals faced off against the Vancouver Canucks in a tightly contested game at Rogers Arena, ending with a 4-3 victory for the home team. The Capitals now hold a record of 24-21-6, while the Canucks improve to 17-28-5.


Jan 21, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks defenseman Marcus Pettersson (29) and forward Brock Boeser (6) celebrate Boeser’s goal against the Washington Capitals in the first period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

First Period


The opening period saw both teams come out strong, but it was the Caps who struck first. Dylan Strome showcased his offensive prowess by netting two goals early on, assisted by Alex Ovechkin and John Carlson. Despite their efforts, the Nucks responded with two goals of their own before the period ended, leveling the score.


Second Period


In this period, defense took center stage as both teams tightened up their play. The Caps struggled to find opportunities against a resolute Canucks defense and were unable to capitalize on any chances. Meanwhile, Vancouver managed to break through twice more during even-strength play to take control of the scoreboard.


Jan 21, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks goalie Kevin Lankinen (32) makes a save on Washington Capitals forward Aliaksei Protas (21) in the first period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

Third Period


Entering the final stretch trailing by two goals, Washington's powerplay unit came alive once again. Justin Sourdif found an opening and scored with precision after receiving assists from Strome and Carlson. However, despite several attempts and increased pressure from Washington's forwards like Connor McMichael and Anthony Beauvillier in front of goal late into regulation time; they couldn't find another equalizer past Kevin Lankinen’s impressive goaltending performance for Vancouver.


The game concluded with significant contributions from key players such as Brock Boeser for Vancouver who was instrumental throughout all three periods alongside Lankinen’s solid presence between pipes which ultimately secured them victory over visiting opponents - marking this encounter one filled not only memorable moments but also pivotal plays that defined its outcome overall!


Jan 21, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks goalie Kevin Lankinen (32) makes a save against the Washington Capitals in the third period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

Fans can look forward to more action when Washington Capitals take on Calgary Flames next Sunday at Scotiabank Saddledome scheduled for January 23rd starting around 9:00 PM EDT available via ESPN+ or MNMT TV network broadcasts respectively! Share your thoughts about these exciting matchups ahead!

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