Andrew Cristall had two goals as the Capitals’ AHL-affiliate eliminated Bridgeport in a sweep.
With Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin and Aliaksei Protas cheering from a suite, the Hershey Bears got the job done against the Bridgeport Islanders to advance in the Calder Cup Playoffs.
It was a big night for Washington’s top prospects, as Andrew Cristall struck twice in the win over Bridgeport. Bogdan Trineyev had a goal and assist, Sonny Milano also scored and Clay Stevenson had 22 saves on 24 shots as Hershey completed the best-of-3 series sweep.
Sam Bitten had the other goal for Hershey, and Ilya Protas, who was named the AHL’s rookie of the year on Thursday, added an assist.
The Bears are looking to make a deeper run following an early exit a season ago. Hershey won back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024.