The home opener at UBS Arena was supposed to be a celebration of a new season — and the first home goal for the franchise’s newest face. Matthew Schaefer delivered on his end, scoring his first NHL goal and making more history in the process. But the night still belonged to the visitors.
Aliaksei Protas scored twice and added an assist, and the Washington Capitals beat the New York Islanders 4-2 on Saturday night, spoiling the Isles’ return to Long Island ice. Martin Fehervary and rookie Ryan Leonard also scored for Washington, while Jakob Chychrun tallied two assists and Logan Thompson made 34 saves.