NHL: Washington 5, New Jersey 1

WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Jay Beagle, Jason Chimera and John Carlson all scored in the second period Tuesday, powering the Washington Capitals to a 5-1 win over New Jersey.

Andrew Gordon scored his first NHL goal in the first to give the Capitals a 1-0 lead, and Washington blew it open with three more in the middle period, capped by Carlson's slapshot past Martin Brodeur from above the right circle with 3:29 left.

Gordon and Carlson also notched assists to back Michal Neuvirth, who made 35 saves, and the Capitals posted their second straight win following an eight-game losing skid.

Mike Knuble also scored in Washington's win.

Patrik Elias scored and Brodeur allowed five goals on 28 shots for the Devils, who fell to 1-8-0 in December.