WASHINGTON (AP) ― After producing his first hat trick in more than two years, Alex Ovechkin wanted to give some credit to Washington Capitals coach Adam Oates.

“He’s that kind of person,” Ovechkin explained, “who gives me belief all the time.”

So when Ovechkin texted Oates the other day, lamenting that it seemed as though the puck simply did not want to go in the net, the first-time NHL head coach replied: “It’s going to come.” Sure did Saturday, over and over again. Ovechkin scored three goals in a game for the first time since Jan. 22, 2011, leading the last-place Capitals to a much-needed 5-1 victory over the Devils.

“For a player, if you feel that kind of trust from a coach, coaching staff, it’s very important,” Ovechkin said.

Philadelphia 5, Winnipeg 3

Edmonton 3, Phoenix 2

Los Angeles 4, Colorado 1

NY Islanders 4, Buffalo 0

Montreal 3, NY Rangers 0

Ottawa 3, Toronto 2

Tampa Bay 5, Carolina 2

Detroit 4, Nashville 0

St. Louis 2, Columbus 1

Dallas 3, San Jose 1

Calgary 3, Minnesota 1