Alex Ovechkin hasn't scored an even-strength goal in 15 games, one shy of his career high, and Washington Capitals coach Barry Trotz may change his top two lines as a result. "See if he can bust out of it tonight," Trotz said after the morning skate. "If not, then maybe do it during the middle of the game. I've been thinking about that for a while." Ovechkin, who will begin the game on the top line at left wing with center Nicklas Backstrom and right wing T.J. Oshie, has three power-play goals during the 15-game stretch. Twelve of his 27 goals this season have come on the power play. Washington has an NHL-high 95 points and leads the Metropolitan Division, five points ahead the Columbus Blue Jackets and Pittsburgh Penguins. The San Jose Sharks defeated Washington 3-0 at Verizon Center on Nov. 8. "These are some of those matchups in season that you really gear up for," said defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk, who was traded from the St. Louis Blues on Feb. 27. "I've been able to play a lot of meaningful games against these guys in recent years and we know how well they play at home. We have to realize that they start very well here and we have to be ready for that. It's going to be a physical game." Goaltender Braden Holtby, who leads the NHL in goals-against average (1.93) and shutouts (eight), will make his fifth straight start.
