NHL Highlights: Washington, Dallas Secure Crucial Wins

Washington Capitals Cruise to wins amid playoff push

Latest NHL action sees Washington Capitals beat Philadelphia Flyers 3-1, while Dallas Stars dominate Seattle Kraken 4-1 in playoff push.

The Flyers weren't having it, though - they equalized just over a minute into the third period...

The Washington Capitals have pulled off a thrilling 3-1 win over the Philadelphia Flyers, bringing them closer to securing a playoff spot. Hendrix Lapierre and Rasmus Sandin scored the opening goals, and Aliaksei Protas sealed the win with a shorthanded empty-netter. This victory showcases the team's resilience and depth, with contributions from lesser-known players.

The Capitals' next match is against the Vegas Golden Knights on February 28, 2026, at the Capital One Arena.

BIG DUB OUT OF THE BREAK#CapsFlyers | #ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/cIEO4yUfZF

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) February 26, 2026

The Game's Tense First Half

The Capitals were back from the Olympics break, and they got off to a solid start against the Flyers. Rasmus Sandin scored late in the second period, giving the Caps the lead in a tight game.

The Flyers weren't having it, though - they equalized just over a minute into the third period. Noah Cates capitalized on his chance, leveling the score.

In the end, the Capitals found a way through. Trevor Van Riemsdyk go-ahead marker 5:52 before the end proved to be the game-winner. Alexei Protas netted an empty net goal despite the guests being on a power play.

Washington's second win in a row puts them two points behind the New York Islanders for the last playoff place in the East. Philadelphia sit six points back of their opponents, and will need to make a run if they are to be back in the conversation for postseason hockey

Always a pleasure, SeattLLLe pic.twitter.com/RAf18xnhWG

— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) February 26, 2026

Dominant Display from Dallas

The Dallas Stars were on fire, cruising to a 4-1 win over Seattle. Wyatt Johnston opened the scoring late in the first, and they built on it in the second.

Matt Duchene, Sam Steele, and Johnston again added to the score in a 6:15 blitz. Seattle's hopes were dashed, with the Stars killing off two power plays in the first.

Dallas Stars defeat Seattle Kraken 4-1, with Wyatt Johnston scoring two goals. Stars move closer to playoff spot.

Seattle failed to get going until it was a bit too late. They did find a goal through Ryker Evans, but that did not come until there were 13:14 left in the game. They were outshot 50-32 in the 60 minutes, proving their struggles to break down their opponents.

The Stars are now on a seven-game winning streak as they stay second in the West. The Kraken will hold onto the final playoff berth in the conference, though their grip is starting to loosen.

Other results

New Jersey Devils 1-3 Buffalo Sabres

Tampa Bay Lightning 4-2 Toronto Maple Leafs

Utah Mammoth 2-4 Colorado Avalanche

Los Angeles Kings 4-6 Vegas Golden Knights

Vancouver Canucks 2-3 Winnipeg Jets (AOT)

Anaheim Ducks 6-5 St. Louis Blues

Turning the page to tomorrow.

— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) February 26, 2026