Boston, MA (Sports Network) - Brooks Laich's goal in the fourth round of the shootout lifted the Washington Capitals to a 3-2 victory over the Boston Bruins at TD Garden.
Dennis Wideman and Marcus Johansson scored in regulation for the Capitals, who pulled even with the idle Buffalo Sabres for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
Tomas Vokoun got the start in net after returning from a six-game absence because of a groin injury and stopped all seven shots he faced, but was replaced by Michal Neuvirth with 1:35 left in the first period after aggravating the injury.
Neuvirth stopped 19-of-21 shots in relief to earn the win.
David Krejci and Andrew Ference tallied goals as Boston had its three-game win streak snapped. Tim Thomas made 21 saves for the Bruins, who could have clinched a playoff spot with a win.
The Sports Network