Capitals blow out Flyers 5-0 to win 9th consecutive game

Washington Capitals goalie Philipp Grubauer (31), of Germany, stops the puck against Philadelphia Flyers right wing Wayne Simmonds (17) during the second period of an NHL hockey game, Sunday, Jan. 15, 2017, in Washington. Capitals defenseman Karl Alzner (27) looks on. (AP Photo/Nick Wass) (The Associated Press)

prev next

Washington Capitals left wing Andre Burakovsky (65), of Austria, (65) gestures as he celebrates his goal during the second period of an NHL hockey game against the Philadelphia Flyers, Sunday, Jan. 15, 2017, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass) (The Associated Press)

Philadelphia Flyers right wing Wayne Simmonds, top, collides with Washington Capitals right wing Tom Wilson (43) during the second period of an NHL hockey game, Sunday, Jan. 15, 2017, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass) (The Associated Press)

WASHINGTON – Justin Williams and Matt Niskanen each scored two goals and Philipp Grubauer stopped all 24 shots he faced and the Washington Capitals extended their winning streak to nine in authoritative fashion by crushing the Philadelphia Flyers 5-0 on Sunday.

The Capitals lead the NHL with 63 points.

Despite a sluggish start, the Capitals came alive with four goals on seven shots in the first seven minutes of the third period to turn the game into a laugher.

Washington has outscored its opponents 40-11 during the streak and passed the Columbus Blue Jackets for first place in the Metropolitan Division, Eastern Conference and the league.

Andre Burakovsky also scored a power-play goal for the Capitals, who haven't allowed an even-strength goal in six games.