Capitals mount big comeback, but lose shootout to Panthers

Washington Capitals goaltender Pheonix Copley (1) battles for the puck against Florida Panthers center Frank Vatrano (72) during the third period of an NHL hockey game, Friday, Oct. 19, 2018, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)After falling behind 4-1 in the first period, the Washington Capitals stormed back to grab a standings point Friday night but ultimately lost 6-5 to the Florida Panthers after a shootout.

Coach Todd Reirden benched starting goalie Braden Holtby and shuffled the Capitals‘ forward lines after the first 20 minutes, which had an immediate effect for the better.

“We were like two different teams, the first period and then the rest of the game after that,” Lars Eller said.…