NHL: Washington 5, Tampa Bay 3

WASHINGTON, March 27 (UPI) -- Brian Pothier's first goal since December 2007 lifted the Washington Capitals to a 5-3 win over Tampa Bay Friday.

The eight-year veteran defenseman had missed 14 months with a career-threatening concussion before he returned Monday against the Atlanta Thrashers.

Alexander Ovechkin's 52nd goal of the season was one of three first-period power-play goals. The others were scored by Nicklas Backstrom (20 and 21).

Ovechkin completed a four-point night by assisting on both Backstrom goals, and added his 53rd (empty net) with seven seconds left in regulation.

Jose Theodore stopped 33-of-36 shots for the Capitals, who played in the 22nd sellout in their last 24 games on home ice.

Tampa Bay got goals from Martin St. Louis in the first, Steven Stamkos in the second, and Vaclav Prospal in the third.

St. Louis had two assists, while Mike McKenna was beaten four times on 38 shots for the Lightning, who have lost 10 in a row to Washington.