Capitals Best Blackhawks

The Washington Capitals moved within one point of fifth place in the Wales Conference on Day 153 after a 3-1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks. Washington is now 35-31-11, one behind Philadelphia and four ahead of New Jersey and Pittsburgh.

Washington came out quickly in the opening period, outshooting Chicago 18-7. David Vyborny netted the only goal for the Caps from Dan Boyle and Jonathan Cheechoo at 6:01.

The Capitals didn't dominate in the second period, but a power play midway through the action gave the team a good chance to extend its lead. Anson Carter did the job from Zigmund Palffy and Bryan Berard to make it 2-0.

Washington continued to press in the final period, and Mikael Renberg's marker from Palffy and Rob Blake at 10:26 stretched the lead to three goals. Vermette ruined the shutout bid with a shorthanded goal from Kolozvary and Miller at 18:32.

Manny Legace stopped 23 shots to earn the win and improve to 28-26-8. Michael Leighton made 27 saves in the loss to fall to 5-1-1.

Washington is off on Day 154 before hosting Buffalo on Day 155.