The Washington Capitals outlasted the Buffalo Sabres in a 5-3 win behind two goals from Tom Wilson and a historic goal and assist from Alex Ovechkin. We also saw the NHL debut of Axel Jonsson-Fjallby as well as a goal from Connor McMichael.
It wasn’t an easy 5-3 win as there were some mistakes along the way including a turnover by Ovechkin that led to a breakaway goal from former Cap Cody Eakin. Other than that Vitek Vanecek made the key stops he needed to make, 25 to be exact. Add it all up and it was a good Monday night team win. Here were the top 3 players who rose to the occasion.
#3 Axel Jonsson-Fjallby
Apologies to Connor McMichael. That was a sweet goal and congrats on scoring your first at home. You’re on fire, kid. But I gotta give this one to Axel Jonsson-Fjallby. I remember watching him at Development Camp back in 2017 and I was impressed with not only his flow but his speed on the ice.
AXE FOR AXE#ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/WJ4JqQC8EG
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) November 9, 2021
But what was really impressive last night was his defense. He had a hit and two blocked shots while skating 5:44 including 23 seconds shorthanded. So he can kill the penalties when needed to be. After the game, he got the postgame axe which is very fitting.