The Washington Capitals got their first glimpse of Logan Thompson in net during Wednesday night’s preseason matchup against the New Jersey Devils. The 27-year-old goaltender was acquired from the Vegas Golden Knights at the 2024 NHL Draft in exchange for two draft picks.
Thompson led the Capitals to their first preseason win, stopping 25 of 28 shots in a 5-3 victory. Despite early defensive struggles that left the Capitals trailing 1-0, Thompson’s composure allowed Washington to take control for most of the final two periods.
“I thought he was outstanding, especially early in that game,” head coach Spencer Carbery said Thursday. “They had some quality chances when we were a bit shaky with the puck.
They got a few quick 2-on-1s, and he came up big. Even at 1-0, we had some good looks but weren’t capitalizing. Sometimes for a goalie, just keeping us within a goal is as valuable as anything.”
Thompson remained solid in net, only being beaten by two deflections and a wrist shot from Jack Hughes that came through heavy traffic with New Jersey’s goalie pulled. He credited his teammates for helping him settle in quickly.
“I thought the defense and forwards did an excellent job shutting things down, and the pucks that got through early were ones I could see,” Thompson said. “Against a team like this, that really helps build confidence. It was a great team effort and a great win.”
Previously in the organization with the ECHL’s South Carolina Stingrays, Thompson made his best save of the night against Stefan Noesen. With 7:39 left in the third and the Devils on the power play down 3-1, Thompson made a spectacular glove save on a backdoor tip.
Noesen was so shocked by the stop that he argued with the referee, claiming the puck had crossed the line before Thompson snagged it. No review followed, and the save stood.
“Just a bit of reaction and a bit of luck,” Thompson admitted. “Fortunate it went into my glove, but you kind of know a team like this looks for those backdoor plays a lot. I was lucky to get a read on it, and today I saved it. Sometimes those go the other way, so I’m grateful for that.”
The Devils ramped up the pressure in the third period, recording 15 of their 28 shots and earning the only two power-play opportunities of the frame.
“Logan was incredible tonight and a big reason we pulled out the win,” defenseman Jakob Chychrun said.
New Jersey, preparing for an earlier start to the regular season than most teams, dressed a roster full of NHL regulars. They begin their campaign against the Buffalo Sabres at the O2 Arena in Prague, Czechia, on October 4.
“One thing I’ve noticed since camp is how tight-knit this group is. They make everyone feel like family,” Thompson said. “These guys play hard for each other, and you could see that right from the start. No one got down when we fell behind, and we battled for each other. It’s making my transition smooth, and I feel really lucky to be here and part of this group.”
Logan Thompson impresses in Capitals’ preseason debut: ‘He was outstanding’.
