Rangers Rout Capitals for Second Straight Win Over Playoff Contender

Will Cuylle's hat trick leads New York to decisive victory over Washington

Apr. 6, 2026 at 2:24am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The New York Rangers defeated the Washington Capitals 8-1 on Sunday night, with Will Cuylle scoring a hat trick to lead the way. The loss was a setback for the Capitals, who are fighting for a playoff spot in the crowded Eastern Conference. The Rangers scored five goals in the second period to pull away for the decisive victory.

Why it matters

The Rangers' win over the Capitals is significant as it prevents Washington from gaining ground in the playoff race. The Capitals are currently on the outside looking in, trailing the Ottawa Senators for the final wild-card spot. This loss could prove costly for Washington as the regular season winds down.

The details

Will Cuylle scored twice in a span of 2:40 during the five-goal second period to give the Rangers a 3-1 lead. He completed his first career hat trick late in the game. J.T. Miller, Adam Sykora, and Adam Fox also scored for New York in the big second period. Capitals goalie Charlie Lindgren struggled, allowing eight goals on 24 shots. Connor McMichael scored Washington's lone goal in the first period.

  • The Rangers scored five goals in the second period to pull away.
  • Cuylle scored twice in a span of 2:40 during the second period.
  • Cuylle completed his hat trick in the final minute of the game.

The players

Will Cuylle

A Rangers forward who scored a hat trick in the game, his first career three-goal performance.

Charlie Lindgren

The Capitals goaltender who struggled, allowing eight goals on 24 shots.

Connor McMichael

The Capitals forward who scored his team's lone goal in the first period.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must continue to fight and find a way to get into the playoffs. This loss is disappointing, but we will regroup and come back stronger.”

— Peter Laviolette, Capitals Head Coach

What’s next

The Capitals will look to bounce back in their next game against the Detroit Red Wings, a key matchup in the tight Eastern Conference playoff race.

The takeaway

The Rangers' decisive victory over the Capitals is a significant setback for Washington's playoff hopes. With the Capitals trailing in the wild-card race, this loss could prove costly as the regular season winds down.