VS. NEW YORK RANGERS

* WHEN: Tonight, 7:35.

* WHERE: Madison Square Garden.

* TV/RADIO: Ch. 20; WCAO-AM 600.

* OUTLOOK: The Capitals (28-32-4) took another step backward Monday night, losing 5-1 in New Jersey. They are now five points behind the Devils for the final playoff spot. Tonight they face the Patrick Division's best in Manhattan without top goalie Don Beaupre. Jim Hrivnak, up from the Skipjacks, was pelted and pulled Monday, so Mike Liut might get the start. Left wing Dimitri Khristich remains out. This is the final meeting of the season with the Rangers (32-22-10), who lead the series 4-2.