NHL: Los Angeles 2, Washington 1

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- A shorthanded goal by Michal Handzus early in the third period Saturday boosted the Los Angeles Kings to a 2-1 decision against the Washington Capitals.

Handzus' ninth goal this season broke a 1-1 tie at 2:50 of the third.

Ryan Smyth (power play) also scored once, while goaltender Jonathan Quick was credited with 26 saves on 27 shots for the Kings, who have split their last four games.

Washington's lone goal was scored by Mike Green (power play) at 2:13 of the second.

High-scoring Washington left wing Alexander Ovechkin did not score despite taking a game-high seven shots on goal.

Goalie Michal Neuvirth was beaten twice on 19 shots for the Capitals, who have lost three in a row.