Washington ended their three-game home ice losing streak with a thrilling 5-4 shootout victory against Ottawa, leveraging the standout performances of players like Dylan Strome, who showcased patience and skill in the shootout.

Logan Thompson was a wall in goal for the Senators, making multiple critical saves, including a highlight-reel effort against Strome that kept Ottawa competitive. The Caps' defense and power play struggled at times, reflecting areas for improvement ahead of their next matchup.

Sidney Crosby's return from a four-nations victory is marked by his spectacular backhand goal, a skill that never tires viewers. This iconic play exemplifies his leadership and prowess on the ice. Meanwhile, Brandon Hagel showcased his tenacity with a stunning shorthanded goal, outmaneuvering defenders and delivering a striking finish that emphasizes his offensive potential. Both players are establishing themselves as key contributors to their teams, reflecting the dynamic energy of their respective squads.

JT Miller returned to the New York Rangers, scoring two goals against the Boston Bruins, though the Rangers ultimately fell, 6-3. This was Miller's first game back since February 2018 after a significant trade involving him, Philip Heedle, and Victor Manini, along with a protected first-round pick. Despite Miller’s impressive performance, the game highlighted issues with the Rangers' defensive play and consistency throughout the season. The Rangers' coach opted to place Miller on the top line as center, alongside Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad, a decision that drew mixed reactions from fans who questioned Zibanejad’s placement on the wing given his recent struggles. Miller's return, however, showcased his physicality and ability to contribute offensively, reaffirming why he was coveted by the team.

The latest episode of Locked On Fantasy Hockey focuses on the most frustrating players in the Eastern Conference as the hockey season progresses. Morgan Rielly of the Toronto Maple Leafs comes under scrutiny for his declining performance, struggling with decision-making and a significant drop in points. Meanwhile, Mika Zibanejad of the New York Rangers is also highlighted as a major disappointment this season, with many fantasy managers feeling the pain of his underwhelming stats. As the hosts discuss these players, they offer insights into the overall team dynamics and potential trades that could shake things up.

The podcast wraps up with a look at betting trends for the upcoming games, emphasizing the importance of strategic plays for the fantasy managers and sports bettors alike.

Lineup changes are on the horizon for the Chicago Blackhawks as they prepare to face the Tampa Bay Lightning. Interim head coach Andre Sorensen has opted to scratch young players Colton Doc and Nolan Allen, emphasizing a need for a 'reset' in their development. Sorensen noted Doc's recent performance, suggesting he needs to increase his physical presence on the ice. Meanwhile, the inclusion of Landon Slaggert is seen as a reward for his strong play in Rockford, where he has developed a reputation for relentless effort.

The discussion touches on the recent impact of players like Jason Dickinson and others who exhibit tenacity even when the team struggles. Sorensen acknowledged that the team cannot depend solely on a few players to spark the group; rather, a collective effort is needed. The Blackhawks are also focusing on maintaining a consistent defensive effort, especially against a high-scoring team like Tampa.