Capitals Defeat Senators in Late-Season Matchup

Cole Hutson scores in NHL debut as Washington secures key victory

Mar. 19, 2026 at 6:42am

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The Washington Capitals defeated the Ottawa Senators 4-1 on Wednesday, with Cole Hutson scoring in his NHL debut. Alex Ovechkin, Tom Wilson, and Aliaksei Protas also found the back of the net for the Capitals, who have won two of their last three games. Logan Thompson made 34 saves in the win, while Tim Stutzle scored the lone goal for the Senators.

Why it matters

This late-season matchup between the Capitals and Senators holds significance as both teams jockey for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference. The Capitals' victory keeps them in the hunt, while the Senators' loss snaps their two-game winning streak.

The details

The Capitals jumped out to a 3-0 lead, with Ovechkin's unconventional goal in the second period proving to be the game-winner. Hutson, a 19-year-old defenseman, made his NHL debut and capped the scoring with an empty-net goal in the final minute of the game. The Senators pulled their goalie late in the third period, leading to Stutzle's goal, but Protas sealed the win for Washington with an empty-netter.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, March 19, 2026.
  • Ovechkin's goal was scored with 11:51 left in the second period.
  • Wilson's goal came 10 minutes after Ovechkin's, in the second period.
  • Stutzle scored with 2:41 remaining in the third period.
  • Protas scored with 92 seconds left in the third period.

The players

Cole Hutson

A 19-year-old defenseman making his NHL debut for the Washington Capitals.

Alex Ovechkin

The NHL's all-time goal scoring leader, who scored his 922nd career goal in the game.

Tim Stutzle

A forward for the Ottawa Senators, who scored his 31st goal of the season.

Logan Thompson

The Capitals' goaltender, who made 34 saves in the victory.

Linus Ullmark

The Senators' goaltender, who made 21 saves in the loss.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.