Unlike one year ago, the Washington Capitals held on and fended off a late Anaheim Ducks rally to win 5-2. The win improves Washington’s record to 16-3-4 as they remain not only atop the Metropolitan Division but the entire NHL with the best record and 36 points, a seven-point separation from the likes of four other teams tied for second in the NHL.
Before the game, coach Todd Reirden moved Travis Boyd up to the third line after a solid first game back with the Capitals the other night. Boyd scored Saturday against the Bruins and on Monday night had a great set up behind the net for Richard Panik‘s first goal as a member of the Caps.