Tales of the Washington Capitals' demise appear to have been premature.

Following a win over the Boston Bruins on Thursday, the Capitals have won 10 of their last 12 games, improving their record to 20-12-1. Those 41 points have them level with the Columbus Blue Jackets - who also won Thursday - for first in the Metropolitan Division.

The two-time defending Presidents' Trophy winners were expected to take a step or two back this season after some significant roster losses over the summer, and while they're not right at the top of the standings, the Capitals are climbing the ranks due to a recent run of success.

Leading the charge is Alex Ovechkin, who scored again in the win against Boston to put himself on pace for 55 goals, which would be his highest total since 2008-09.

Winger T.J. Oshie has been out since Dec. 4 with an upper-body injury and could return as early as this weekend, giving Washington something else to be optimistic about going forward.

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