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Capitals' win brings Holtby closer to record-breaking season

Elsa / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Washington Capitals goaltender Braden Holtby is one step closer to breaking an NHL record.

Related: VIDEO: Capitals' Holtby extends to make miraculous skate save

Sunday's 3-2 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers marks his 33rd win of the season. Holtby remains on pace to eclipse Martin Brodeur's record mark of 48 wins in a single season, set during the 2006-07 campaign.

If he can keep pace with his production and durability, he should start 67 games and finish the year with 52 wins, which would best the former New Jersey Devils star by four wins.

The numbers could be even better as he may play more games, having proved Sunday with his second game in as many nights, that rest isn't essential.

If further proof is needed to show just how strong of a season Holtby has had, it's important to note his numbers all around have bested Brodeur's career season. Holtby's .929 save percentage and 2.06 GAA remain ahead of Brodeur's .922 and 2.18 marks.

The 26-year-old needs just 16 more wins during the team's final 30 games to move ahead of Brodeur's mark. However, the veteran may still hold bragging rights, as with just two shutouts, it's unlikely Holtby will match Brodeur's 12.

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