Ovechkin takes blame for 'stupid decisions' in Game 4 loss

With Sidney Crosby on the sidelines, the stage was set for Alex Ovechkin.

But the Washington Capitals captain failed to deliver in Game 4. Ovechkin was held off the scoresheet in Crosby's absence, later taking responsibility for his poor performance.

"I didn't play my game at all tonight. Me personally, I have to play much better," Ovechkin told ESPN's Craig Custance. "I didn't control the puck well. I make stupid decisions. Unfortunately it happened."

Ovechkin finished the night with just two shots on goal. He was twice whistled for minor penalties.

After finishing the regular season with an NHL-best record of 118 points, the Capitals now trail 3-1 in their second-round series against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The Capitals must win Game 5 on Saturday to keep their Stanley Cup dreams alive.