VS. HARTFORD WHALERS

* WHEN: Tonight, 7:35.

* WHERE: Capital Centre.

* TV/RADIO: HTS; WCAO-AM 600.

* OUTLOOK: The Caps' (31-32-6) sudden surge of weekend road wins in Winnipeg and Edmonton has landed them in a tie for the fourth and final playoff position in the Patrick Division. A victory in tonight's game in hand over New Jersey (28-30-12) ensures the Caps sole possession of the slot and would leave them just one point behind Philadelphia (31-30-9) for third place. They appear to have a willing opponent -- the Whalers are 0-6-3 in their last nine games. Center Dale Hunter returns from his suspension. Mike Liut and Don Beaupre are both ready to start in goal.