Capitals Defeat Sabres 6-2 as Protas Scores in Return from Injury

Washington keeps playoff hopes alive with win over Buffalo

Apr. 6, 2026 at 2:31pm

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The Washington Capitals defeated the Buffalo Sabres 6-2 on Saturday night, with Aliaksei Protas scoring a goal and adding an assist in his return from injury. Jakob Chychrun and Connor McMichael also had a goal and assist for the Capitals, while Dylan Strome, Evgeny Kuznetsov, and Alex Ovechkin also found the back of the net.

Why it matters

The win keeps the Capitals' playoff hopes alive as they battle for a postseason berth in the tight Eastern Conference race. Protas' return from injury provides a boost to the Capitals' lineup and scoring depth.

The details

Protas, who had been sidelined with an injury, made an immediate impact in his return, scoring a goal and setting up another as the Capitals pulled away from the Sabres. Chychrun and McMichael also had strong offensive performances, while Strome, Kuznetsov, and Ovechkin added insurance goals to secure the victory.

  • The game was played on Saturday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Aliaksei Protas

A forward for the Washington Capitals who scored a goal and had an assist in his return from injury.

Jakob Chychrun

A defenseman for the Washington Capitals who had a goal and an assist in the game.

Connor McMichael

A forward for the Washington Capitals who also had a goal and an assist.

Dylan Strome

A forward for the Washington Capitals who scored a goal in the game.

Alex Ovechkin

The star forward for the Washington Capitals who scored a goal in the game.

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What they’re saying

“It was great to have Protas back in the lineup. He's a big part of our team and his contributions were crucial in this important win.”

— Peter Laviolette, Head Coach, Washington Capitals

What’s next

The Capitals will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Their next game is against the Pittsburgh Penguins on April 10th.

The takeaway

The Capitals' victory over the Sabres, led by the return of Protas and strong offensive performances from several players, keeps their postseason hopes alive in the tight Eastern Conference playoff race.