Rookie Evgeny Kuznetsov scored the go-ahead goal and Braden Holtby only needed to make 10 saves, lifting the Capitals past the Islanders 2-1 in the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Kuznetsov dropped by Washington’s practice facility this summer and shared the ice with men’s league players. If he ever returns, they have but one request.

Washington wins its second straight in regulation as Alzner, Beagle and Kuznetsov score on the road.

The Montreal Canadiens could unlock the full potential of Ivan Demidov this season by turning to his former teammate.