NHL: Washington 5, Florida 3

WASHINGTON, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- Viktor Kozlov scored twice and rookie Nicklas Backstrom notched four assists Saturday, helping the Washington Capitals beat the Florida Panthers 5-3.

Alex Ovechkin, Alexander Semin and John Erskine also had goals for Washington, which has won five of its last six games.

Capitals goaltender Brent Johnson recorded 25 saves.

Shawn Matthias had two goals and Olli Jokinen one for the Panthers, who have lost four of their last five. Goalie Tomas Vokoun blocked 35 shots.