The Columbus Blue Jackets' momentum was halted on Friday night as the Washington Capitals skated to a 5-1 victory at Nationwide Arena. Here are three takeaways from the Blue Jackets' frustrating loss:

1. Logan Thompson's Dominance

Capitals goaltender Logan Thompson proved to be the biggest difference-maker in the game, stopping 34 of the 35 shots he faced. Thompson's stellar performance kept the Blue Jackets at bay, especially during the first two periods when Columbus controlled much of the play. He made several key saves, thwarting scoring opportunities and maintaining a shutout until late in the third period. Capitals coach Spencer Carbery acknowledged Thompson's outstanding play, stating, "I think we just stole two points. Logan was fantastic, especially to keep us in it". Thompson also contributed an assist to his team's victory.

2. Third-Period Collapse

After a tightly contested, scoreless battle for nearly 40 minutes, the Capitals broke the ice late in the second period and then exploded for four goals in the third. John Carlson's goal at 18:19 of the second period shifted the momentum, and the Capitals followed up with two quick goals early in the third. Alex Ovechkin scored his 899th career goal, and Justin Sourdif added another, extending Washington's lead. The Blue Jackets struggled to respond, and the Capitals capitalized on their opportunities, ultimately putting the game out of reach.

3. Special Teams Struggles and Costly Penalties

The Blue Jackets' special teams struggled, failing to convert on three power-play opportunities. Columbus also gave up two power play goals to the Capitals on five man advantages. A five-minute major penalty assessed to Mathieu Olivier in the third period proved particularly costly, as the Capitals scored twice during the extended power play to extend their lead. Coach Evason noted the importance of maintaining discipline and capitalizing on special teams opportunities to win games.

Despite the loss, Coach Evason remained optimistic, stating, "We'll take a ton of positivity out of this hockey game... The players know how hard they played. They know how well they played and they know they just need to keep doing that and that will get rewarded". The Blue Jackets will look to bounce back as they travel to Pittsburgh to face the Penguins.