NHL: Washington 4, Tampa Bay 2

WASHINGTON, April 7 (UPI) -- Joel Ward put Washington ahead in the second period Sunday and the surging Capitals went on to knock off Tampa Bay 4-2.

Ward's tally broke a 2-2 tie and added an assist for the Capitals, who extended their season-high winning streak to four games and jumped two points ahead of idle Winnipeg for first place in the Southeast Division.

Alex Ovechkin scored twice, including an empty-netter -- his 24th and 25th markers of the season -- and John Carlson also tallied for Washington.

Capitals goalie Michal Neuvirth made 28 saves, while Ben Bishop game up three goals on 37 shots.

Vincent Lecavalier provided a goal and an assist and Alex Killorn also scored for the Lightning.