WASHINGTON (AP) ― An NHL routine gone missing for 102 days made an overdue return Sunday: Alex Ovechkin scored a goal, and the Washington Capitals won.

Like old times. The two-time league MVP nailed a one-timer from the left circle on a power play, skated a few feet, bent his left knee and unleashed that familiar downward celebratory fist pump. He then collected the customary row of high-fives as he skated past the Capitals bench.

And, naturally, it proved to be the decisive goal in the game, coming with 14:49 remaining in a 3-2 victory over the Buffalo Sabres.

The Capitals hadn’t won ― and Ovechkin hadn’t scored ― since May 9, 2012, during a playoff series against the New York Rangers.

“We finally win,” Ovechkin said. “So it’s much, much better for us right now. No pressure (on) our shoulders.”

Joel Ward scored his third goal of the season, John Erskine got his first since the 2011 playoffs, and Michal Neuvirth made 22 saves for the Capitals, who had opened with four consecutive losses for the first time since 1993-94.

The sluggish start ― which included far too many needless penalties and defensive lapses ― led players and new coach Adam Oates to openly question the team’s work ethic.

Not so on Sunday. The Capitals went to the penalty box only twice and didn’t allow a power play goal for the first time this season. After the final whistle, the players gathered at center ice and raised their sticks to the fans, a fitting showing of thanks from the last team in the league to get a win. It was also Oates’ first as an NHL head coach.

“I was kind of hoping it would be sooner,” Oates said, “but I’m glad.”

Ovechkin’s goal gave Washington a 3-1 lead. Marcus Foligno put in a rebound with 9:47 remaining to pull the Sabres within one, but Neuvirth and the Capitals survived Buffalo’s final push for a tying goal.

Pittsburgh 2, Ottawa 1

Montreal 4, New Jersey 3

Tampa Bay 5, Philadelphia 1

Chicago 2, Detroit 1

St. Louis 5, Minnesota 4

Winnipeg 5, NY Islanders 4

San Jose 4, Vancouver 1