Cole Hutson's availability suddenly became big news for Spencer Carbery's Capitals during their game Saturday night against the Boston Bruins.

Boston University's elimination earlier in the day cleared the path for Washington to sign the 19-year-old defenseman immediately.

The timing matters even more given the standings. Washington entered the night chasing Boston for the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference.

The Bruins sit at 78 points through 65 games, while the Capitals hold 73 points after 67 games. Every point down the stretch carries weight.

That's why the Hutson development landed at an interesting moment. While Washington battles Boston on the ice, the organization suddenly has the option to inject young skill onto the blue line.

Hutson finished his sophomore season at Boston University with 32 points in 35 games and earned a place on the All-Hockey East First Team.

He also handled massive minutes in college, averaging 24:53 per game, which ranked 10th among NCAA defensemen this season.

Bruins respond after Washington strikes

On the ice, the Capitals grabbed the early push in the second period.

Matt Roy opened the scoring at 1:15 of the middle frame, giving Washington a 1-0 lead and briefly quieting the Bruins crowd.

Boston answered before long.

Charlie McAvoy tied the game at 11:57 of the second period, jumping into the rush and finishing a setup from David Pastrnak.

The Bruins have carried a slight edge territorially so far. Boston leads 17-15 in shots midway through the second period.

Faceoffs have also leaned toward the home side, with Boston winning 53.6 percent of the draws through the first half of the game.

For Bruins fans watching the playoff race tighten, the situation is clear.

Boston is protecting a Wild Card position, while Washington is trying to close the gap. At the same time, the Capitals may soon be adding Cole Hutson to their roster.

And if that signing happens quickly, the playoff chase between these two teams might get even more interesting.