The Hurricanes were no match for the Alexes.

Alexander Semin had two goals and three assists to take the NHL goals and points leads, and linemate Alex Ovechkin added two goals and an assist in the Washington Capitals' 5-1 victory in Carolina on Wednesday night.

"I hope he's going to play the same way — he's going to be the best player in the league," Ovechkin said. "What can you say about our line? We controlled the game, controlled the puck."

Nicklas Backstrom, the third member of the line, had a goal and three assists to help Washington take sole possession of the Southeast Division lead with its fourth straight victory. Mike Green added a goal and an assist for the Capitals.

Rangers 5, Devils 2

At Newark, N.J., Michal Rozsival and Nikolai Zherdev scored during two-man advantages in New York's four-goal second period, and the Rangers routed Martin Brodeur-less New Jersey.

Bruins 2, Blackhawks 1

At Chicago, P.J. Axelsson scored in the third round of a shootout for Boston to spoil a big night for Chicago that began with the retirement of No. 3 in honor of Pierre Pilote and the late Keith Magnuson.

Coyotes 5, Blue Jackets 2

At Columbus, Ohio, Shane Doan had two goals and an assist and Ilya Bryzgalov made 31 saves in Phoenix's third straight victory.

Avalanche 2, Canucks 1

At Vancouver, British Columbia, Wojtek Wolski and Marek Svatos scored in a shootout and Peter Budaj made 31 saves in regulation and overtime for Colorado.