Capitals Fall to Blackhawks

The Washington Capitals lost a tough 3-2 decision to the Chicago Blackhawks on Day 159 to remain in a heated playoff race in the Wales Conference. Washington is fifth at 36-33-11, tied with Pittsburgh and one ahead of Philadelphia. Tampa is eighth two points behind the Flyers, and the Devils trail the Lightning by one point.

Washington came out flying in the first period, outshooting Chicago 12-6 and taking a 1-0 lead. David Vyborny scored the goal from Frantisek Lukes and Radoslav Suchy at 17:44.

The game tightened in the second period, but the Caps still gained a two goal lead when Todd Warriner netted from Dan Boyle and Jonathan Cheechoo on the power play at 8:42. Chicago pulled a goal back through Kolozvary from Sykora and Gomez at 13:06.

Both teams upped the tempo in the final period, but it was the Blackhawks that scored twice to secure the win. Vermette got both goals, the first coming from Brendle and Rasmussen at 1:41, and the game-winner from Miller and Koci at 19:16. Washington had a short power play over the final 14 seconds, but the club couldn't find the tying goal.

Manny Legace made 21 saves in the loss and fell to 29-28-8. Jean-Marc Pelletier stopped 30 shots in his debut to earn the win.

The Capitals finish the season with a home-and-home series against the Devils. The first game is in Washington on Day 160.