Dec 23, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin (31) prepares to make a save on Washington Capitals center Ethen Frank (53) as Rangers defenseman Scott Morrow (60) defends during the first period at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
The Caps have been struggling to find their game of late, their recent slide coinciding (and not coincidentally) with the loss of Ryan Leonard a few weeks ago. The 20-year-old drew back into the lineup sooner than expected, and his return did seem to provide a spark to the team…until it didn’t, as the Caps let a one-goal lead slip away to lose to the hapless Rangers.
Plus: For most of the first 40 minutes – and despite giving up the game’s first goal – the Caps seemed to be very much in control of things, getting timely scoring (and a little luck) while controlling play in the offensive zone. It was nice to see after what have been some recent lackluster performances, and they took a 3-2 lead into the final frame.
Minus: Ah, but then the third period rolled around, and that tenuous lead turned into a hole far too quickly.
Caps Player of the Game: Welcome back, Ryan Leonard! How about an energetic return to the lineup and a two-assist night for his first game back? A good sign going forward, to be sure.
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