An early deficit, sent spiraling by a terrible penalty, then a stirring, unlikely comeback, sudden defeat. Game Six was the height of Caps playoff chaos. If you emotionally checked out early, I can’t blame you. If, late in the game, you didn’t high-five until your hands got all red and stingy, I can’t understand you. If you’re reeling right now, you are my people.

Penguins beat Capitals 4-3 in overtime. Penguins win the series 4-2.

I’ll need more time to collect my thoughts, but some players are in my head right now.

• Karl Alzner, felled by Sidney Crosby, out of the game.
• Brooks Orpik, a reckless penalty that belies his entire reputation.
• John Carlson, Washington’s greatest playoff defenseman.
• Justin Williams, clutch as advertised.
• Evgeny Kuzentsov, really unfortunate.
• Braden Holtby, did everything we could ask, one softy aside.
• and Jay Beagle, the world’s best improvisational overtime goalie.

So ends 2015-16 for the Caps. It was their best season yet. They’re gonna reload and come back even harder next season. But for now:

Graphic: @mburnshockey

Thanks for reading RMNB. We’ve got more coming.

Full RMNB Coverage of Game Six