Capitals drop preseason finale to Blue Jackets

The Washington Capitals took on the Columbus Blue Jackets in a rematch Saturday night at Capital One Arena to finish out the preseason. Like Thursday night, the game ended with a 4-2 final. Unlike Thursday night it was the other way around with the Blue Jackets prevailing.

The first period was scoreless as the Caps led in shots 9-4. The scoring turned on the second period. Boone Jenner put the Blue Jackets up 1-0 at 4:57.

The Caps tied it at 6:18 on a slapshot from downtown by John Carlson which was assisted by Nic Dowd and Rasmus Sandin. The Caps would take a 2-1 lead at 10:34.

With traffic in front of the net, Alex Ovechkin got the puck barely across the line. The goal was initially waved off but after further review the puck indeed crossed the line and Ovi was granted his practice goal.

It was Ovechkin’s first and only goal of the preseason and now from here on out every Ovechkin goal will count. Lucas Johansen and T.J. Oshie had the assists.

2-1 Caps was the score after two with shots on goal even at eight apiece in the second period.

In the third period the Blue Jackets scored three unanswered goals to take over the game. Cole Sillinger tied it at 6:29. The third overall pick in this year’s NHL Draft Adam Fantilli gave them the lead at 16:17. Patrik Laine put it away at 19:04.

The Caps finish the preseason with a 3-2-1 record which is basically the same as the countdown to opening night. Before we get to that I want to note that Anthony Mantha did not play in the preseason finale. Keep an eye on that.

Teams have until 5 p.m. on Monday to set their 23 man opening night rosters. There could be a move coming very soon either later today or tomorrow. Based on these moves, we should know what the roster will look like once they’re made.

Once the 23 man roster is set the Caps have a full week to prepare for a Friday night showdown with the Pittsburgh Penguins at Capital One Arena. Game time is 7:30 p.m. and you can catch it on Hulu or ESPN plus.