Aliaksei Protas had two goals and an assist, and the Washington Capitals beat New York 4-2, spoiling the Islanders’ home opener.

Everything from the game presentation at UBS Arena to the roster on the ice looked different. The 7 p.m. start time was a departure from what had previously been a standard 7:30 puck drop. The loudest roar in pregame warmups was for Matthew Schaefer.

Snapshots from the New York Islanders 4-2 loss in their home opener against the Washington Capitals at UBS Arena on Oct. 11, 2025. Photos by Dennis DaSilva and Sam Johnston, New York Islanders and Bruce Bennett, Steven Ryan and Andrew Mordzynski, Getty Images

Everything you need to know about the NHL matchup between the New York Rangers and the Washington Capitals, including how to watch and team news.

With the NHL season officially underway, the league has teamed up with lululemon once again, expanding its collection to include all 32 teams.

NHL season with the Washington Capitals, as fans and analysts watch closely to see how the legendary forward approaches the season opener against the Boston Bruins.

Alex Ovechkin completed his chase of the NHL goals record last season, but the Washington Capitals captain’s work on THE GR8 CHASE For Victory Over Cancer is far from over. With an assist from 4-year-old Sunny Thornton,