Making his career-high 15th straight start Tuesday, Ward tied a career high with 42 saves in the Hurricanes' 3-2 shootout loss to the Washington Capitals.

Ward has started 28 of Carolina's past 29 games, but he said he's not wearing down -- even if his equipment is. He debuted a new mask Tuesday after his old one cracked on the chin.

"I feel really good," Ward said. "This is the best time of the year, why you play. We're trying to make the playoffs, and I'm enjoying every minute of it."

As for the rubber headed his direction, including 13 shots in the first period as the Caps outshot the Canes 9-1 to open the game, Ward said it didn't feel that busy.

In Thursday's 2-1 shootout win over the Florida Panthers, Ward tied his previous season high with 37 saves.

"They threw a lot of pucks at the net, and in a game like that, the shot clock's going to be running high," Ward said. "But you look at the game, and I don't think they really had too many second opportunities."

MOVING ALONG: Justin Williams (knee) and Chad LaRose (leg) continue to practice with their teammates, raising hopes they may return before the regular season ends.

That's far more likely in LaRose's case; he could be available when the Hurricanes visit the Capitals next Tuesday.

Williams had his reconstructive knee surgery Dec. 26, a procedure that usually requires a minimum of four months recovery time -- particularly for a player like Williams, who has suffered the same injury before.

But Williams has looked "terrific," Hurricanes coach Peter Laviolette said, raising hopes he could be back before then.

Matt Cullen (head) remains out indefinitely and hasn't practiced with the Canes since March 14.

BLANKED: The Hurricanes failed to score in the shootout, the second time that's happened in five shootouts this season. The Canes are 2-3 overall. After converting his first two attempts this season, Jeff Hamilton has missed his past two over the past five days.

Ward fell to 2-7 for his career in shootouts but has allowed only one goal in the past five attempts against him.

"It's frustrating to lose in a shootout, but you do the best you can," Ward said.

STILL STREAKING: Eric Staal's assist Tuesday continued his scoring run, giving him 28 points in the past 18 games. He has recorded at least one point in 15 of those games, and multiple points in 10 of them.

HONORED: Ward was nominated by his teammates for the King Clancy Trophy, which recognizes leadership and community service. Ron Francis won the King Clancy in 2002.

TAILWINDS: Patrick Eaves (illness) was scratched after taking part in the morning skate. ... Jeff Hamilton's goal was his first since Feb. 18. ... Washington's Alex Ovechkin scored his NHL-leading 61st goal of the season, but only his first against Carolina in their past three meetings. ... Scott Walker returned to the game after crashing face-first into the boards in the second period.