With four rounds remaining and twelfth place in the standings, a victory was almost essential for Washington to keep its playoff dream alive.
The team took the chance - and managed to close the gap on an already-defeated Toronto on the road.
Several of Toronto's Swedes had a really tough day at work. Calle Järnkrok was on the ice for three of Washington's goals, and William Nylander was on the ice for two.
Washington now has 89 points. Ottawa, in the closest wildcard spot, has 92 points with one fewer game played and also has a better goal difference.
