Ovechkin's power-play goal in the 3rd period gives Capitals a 3-2 win over Ducks

Washington Capitals right winger Joel Ward (42) celebrates his goal over Anaheim Ducks goalie Jonas Hiller (1), of Switzerland, in the first period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, March 18, 2014. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon) (The Associated Press)

Washington Capitals goalie Jaroslav Halak, of Slovakia, blocks a shot from the Anaheim Ducks during the second period of an NHL hockey game Tuesday, March 18, 2014, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon) (The Associated Press)

ANAHEIM, Calif. – Alex Ovechkin scored the tiebreaking goal early in the third period, and the Washington Capitals kept up their playoff push with a 3-2 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Tuesday night.

Jaroslav Halak made 43 saves in his sixth consecutive start for the Capitals, who have won their past four games at Honda Center.

Joel Ward and Troy Brouwer also scored for the Capitals, who have won three straight to pull into an eighth-place tie with Columbus for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Ben Lovejoy and Mathieu Perreault scored for the Ducks, who have lost four straight home games while falling out of first place in the overall NHL standings.

Jonas Hiller stopped 27 shots, but Ovechkin scored his 46th goal early in a power play.