The Washington Capitals have been trying to put together consistent stretches of success all season. Yet, the only thing that has been consistent about the Caps' season is their inconsistency.

That did not change Sunday as the New York Rangers defeated the Caps 3-2, handing Washington its second straight loss and fifth in its last seven games.

Ryan Callahan, Ryan McDonagh and Brandon Prust scored for New York, while Alexander Semin and John Carlson scored for Washington. Semin's goal tied the game at 1-1 in the second period, but McDonagh restored the lead shortly after. With a power play chance in the third period that could have tied the game, the Caps allowed Prust to score a shorthanded goal.

Carlson cut the Rangers' lead to 3-2 with just over two minutes left, but the Caps could not convert with Michal Neuvirth (25 saves) pulled for an extra attacker.

The Caps have no time to reflect on the loss as they head back to Verizon Center Monday to face the San Jose Sharks.