NHL: Washington 3, Buffalo 2

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WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- Alex Ovechkin scored the decisive goal Sunday and the Washington Capitals bested Buffalo 3-2 for their first win of lockout-shortened NHL season.

Ovechkin's initial tally of the campaign came 5 minutes into the third period and put the Capitals ahead 3-1.

Joel Ward contributed a goal with an assist and John Erskine also scored as the Capitals -- the last remaining NHL team without a victory -- broke a four-game winless streak.

The decision also handed new head Coach Adam Oates his first triumph as the Caps' mentor.

Michal Neuvirth earned the win with 22 saves.

Marcus Foligno and Tyler Ennis each scored and Ryan Miller surrendered three goals on 30 shots for the Sabres, who dropped a third straight.