"Capitals' Playoff Hopes Dwindle as Penguins Defeat Lightning"

The Pittsburgh Penguins' victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning pushed them ahead of the Washington Capitals in the playoff race, leaving the Capitals in a deeper hole for a playoff spot. The Capitals have lost five straight games and now sit sixth in the Metropolitan Division and 10th in the Eastern Conference. With six games remaining, they have a tough road ahead to secure a postseason appearance, facing challenging matchups against playoff teams and direct competitors.