The Detroit Red Wings defeated the Washington Capitals by a score of 5-2 on Saturday, in the first game of their home-and-home series. The Red Wings dominated early, outshooting the Capitals 17-6 in the first period.

John Leonard opened the scoring for the Red Wings just 1:05 into the game, marking his first goal as a Red Wing. James van Riemsdyk extended Detroit's lead early in the second period, followed by goals from Elmer Soderblom and Moritz Seider, pushing the score to 4-0. Seider also contributed an assist during the game.

The Capitals responded with a goal from Aliaksei Protas shortly after Seider's goal, and Martin Fehervary scored in the third period. However, Dylan Larkin sealed the victory for Detroit with an empty-net goal.

John Gibson made 24 saves for the Red Wings, securing his seventh straight win in net. Logan Thompson stopped 36 of 40 shots for the Capitals in the loss.

The Red Wings have won three of their last four games and are currently at the top of the competitive Atlantic Division. The Capitals have lost four of their last five games.

Jakob Chychrun appeared to score for Washington in the third period, but the goal was disallowed due to goaltender interference.

The two teams will face off again on Sunday for the second game of the home-and-home series.