(Sports Network) - The Florida Panthers will try to avoid a third consecutive
loss today, when they visit the Washington Capitals for an afternoon tilt at
the Verizon Center.
The Panthers lost an overtime decision to Carolina on Tuesday and were handed
another close setback by visiting Toronto on Thursday. The Maple Leafs held on
for the 3-2 win thanks in part to John Pohl's game-winning marker in the
second period.
Alex Auld absorbed the loss for the Panthers, who have dropped five of seven
and are still last in the Southeast Division with 44 points. Auld surrendered
all three goals while facing just 14 shots over two periods. He was then
pulled in favor of Ed Belfour, who turned aside five chances the rest of the
way.
Gregory Campbell and Ville Peltonen each scored goals in the third period for
the Panthers.
After today's tilt, Florida won't play again until next Saturday, when they
return from the All-Star break with a home test against New Jersey.
Meanwhile, the Capitals ended a three-game skid with Thursday's victory at
Carolina. Alexander Semin and Chris Clark each scored two goals to lead
Washington past the Hurricanes, 5-2.
Alexander Ovechkin extended his point streak to eight games with a tally for
the Capitals, while Olaf Kolzig turned aside 34 shots en route to his 16th
victory of the season.
Ovechkin has four goals and 10 assists during his tear, while Semin has 10
goals over his last seven games.
The Caps first game after the All-Star break will be next Friday in Carolina.
Washington has taken two of the three encounters with the Panthers this
season, but Florida has won nine of the last 12 matchups overall.
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