Wednesday’s Three Stars: Michalek, Marchand drop deuces; Quick, Vokoun pulled

No. 1 Star: Milan Michalek, Ottawa Senators

The Senators forward scored two goals and assisted on Erik Karlsson's first-period tally, leading Ottawa to a 5-2 rout of the Washington Capitals. He also abused Dennis Wideman before engaging in a quirky goal celebration on the suggestion of his Czech friend.

No. 2 Star: Brad Marchand, Boston Bruins

Marchand scored twice in the Bruins' 4-2 win at the St. Louis Blues, and both goals naturally had some agitation at their core. His first tally was unassisted at 2:29 of the first period, after forcing a Kevin Shattenkirk turnover; his second was off another Blues turnover, as Tyler Seguin found Marchand open for a breakaway.

No. 3 Star: Paul Stastny, Colorado Avalanche

Stastny scored two goals, including a confidence sapping unassisted score off a Kyle Clifford turnover in the first period, to help the Avs to a 4-1 win over the Los Angeles Kings. Stastny closed out the Colorado scoring in the second period on a scramble in front, leading to the awkward Hockey Hug you see above. He was also 9-2 in the faceoff circle.

Honorable mention: Semyon Varlamov had plenty of offensive support in the first period, but also had a fine 32-save night to continue his dominance of the Kings. … Mark Olver and Jay McClement had the other Avs goals. … Karlsson had a goal and two assists for Ottawa, while Nick Foligno had a goal and an assist. Craig Anderson made 33 saves. … Milan Lucic scored a goal and added an assist on Chris Kelly's eventual game-winner. ... Chris Stewart and Ryan Reaves scored for the Blues. … Tim Thomas made 30 saves. … Finally, Mathieu Perreault scored a goal for the Capitals with his tongue.

Did you know? In St. Louis, referee Ian Walsh left the game early in the second period after suffering a cut that required medical attention. He returned 5:13 later. … (AP)

Dishonorable mention: Tomas Vokoun was pulled again, this time after four goals on 11 shots in 32:08. … Brooks Laich was a minus-3. … Jonathan Quick's GAA continues to rise, as he was pulled after giving up three goals on 11 shots in the first period. … Brad Richardson and Trevor Lewis were both minus-3.