This weekend, the Caps face the biggest threat to their hold on the Southeast Division (Florida Panthers) and their biggest threat in the Eastern Conference (Boston Bruins).
The latter comes tomorrow afternoon in Boston, where the red, white and blue visit the Bs. And, although the New Jersey Devils might have something to say about it, right now the Caps and Bruins are fighting for the top spot in the East.
But it's going to be hard to catch the Bs, who have a nine-point lead on the Caps and have won their last two games by a combined 12-1 tally. The Caps are 2-0-1 against Boston so far this season.
In yesterday's 4-3 win over the Atlanta Thrashers, the Caps continued to parade to the penalty box and were saved only by the fact that the visitors took more penalties than they did. It also didn't hurt that the Caps are vastly superior to the Thrashers.
The Caps need to stay out of the box this weekend and start to exhibit the kind of behavior they'll need in the playoffs: discipline.
February 27, 2009
February 26, 2009
Caps-Thrashers Live
Welcome to Verizon Center, where another big crowd will witness a (hark!) divisional match-up between the Caps and Atlanta Thrashers. Michal Neuvirth will oppose Kari Lehtonen in net. Staffan Kronwall and Michael Nylander are the healthy scratches.
It's time to play the game.
First Period
The Caps came out with abandon and quickly got the lead. As the Caps skated on the power play, Alex Semin got a pass from Sergei Fedorov and unleashed a wrister (with a little deke) to give the Caps a 1-0 lead.
As Semin scored, Eric Perrin got called for slashing and the Caps got another extra-man advantage. On the ensuing power play, the Caps extended their lead. Mike Green launched a wrist shot from the point. The puck trickled through Lehtonen's legs and Brooks Laich slammed home the rebound for his 15th goal of the season.
From there, the penalty mongers got two (Milan Jurcina and Matt Bradley, both for hooking) but the Caps were able to kill off the power plays.
As Alex Ovechkin was skating on a shift later in the period, Rich Peverley hit him in the face with his stick (drawing blood) and got no call at all. He then went after Marty Reasoner and got called for roughing but there was no call on the Thrashers. That is one of the most blatant missed calls I've seen in a long time. Hopefully, Peverley gets fined for cheap-shotting the league's best play.
And, of course, the Thrashers scored on the ensuing man-advantage. Slava Kozlov (no relation) passed it down low to Todd White, who zipped it weak side to a wide-open Ilya Kovalchuk, who netted his 32nd tally of the season. The goal was met with loud boos and tons of "ref, you suck" chants.
Ovechkin's next shift on ice was full of lots of energy from the MVP, who clearly wants to score a ton and hit more than usual. It doesn't look like a sell-out, but boy is it loud as usual.
Brasher also is ready to fight to protect Ovie.
After one: Caps 2, Thrashers 1
Second Period
The stanza started with some excitement as Ovechkin continued his reckless abandon on the Thrashers, which led to a fight between Donald Brashear and Eric Boulton. The skirmish didn't have many punches, more skating and tangling, but once Brash started pummeling Boulton, that was the end of that.
The Thrashers hit the Caps where it hurt the most, however, not too much later. Peverley got open between the circles at the blueline and beat Neuvirth easily to tie the game at two. Shaone Morrisonn, Tom Poti and Semin all seemed to blame for the opening.
From there, the Thrashers took four straight penalties but the Caps could only convert on one, despite lots of shots and good chances. Green scored his 16th power play goal of the season, his 23rd overall, off some great passing from Semin and Nicklas Backstrom. The marker ties the club record (with Scott Stevens) for most power-play goals by a defenseman in a season and gives Green the NHL lead in that category. It also was Backstrom's 50th assist of the season.
Laich got called for interference at 16:07, but the Caps killed it off and head to the third period with a one-goal lead.
After two: Caps 3, Thrashers 2.
Third Period
The final stanza began with up-and-down action, but nothing overly notable until David Steckel started the one-man cycling show. That lead to a pass back to Morrisonn at the point. He flubbed a shot, but it went right to Eric Fehr, who buried the puck past Lehtonen to give the Caps a two-goal lead. Fehr's shot appeared to change directions on the way in and Lehtonen seemed to have it for a second. It's Fehr's 10th goal of the season in 41 games.
Boyd Gordon then got called for high-sticking and the Caps were back on the PK, which they killed off easily.
The Caps got another power play at 8:48, but it didn't result in much. Green also had a mind-numbing hit on Peverley, which was one of his best checks ever.
The Caps got their eighth power play of the night at 16:12, which actually led to a shorthanded goal for Atlanta -- their sixth shortie in the last six games. Kovalchuk got the puck in the Caps zone after the Thrashers had cleared it. Ovechkin came down low to help Green, but Todd White was wide open in the slot and beat Neuvirth for his 16th of the year. It cut the Caps' lead to just one goal and the Thrashers decided to call a timeout (and pull Lehtonen) with 1:10 left.
The Caps held on, despite some late Atlanta pressure.
Final shots: Caps 40, Thrashers 24
Final: Caps 4, Thrashers 3
Postgame Thoughts
This game is further proof that the Caps' biggest need is a defenseman. Green and Poti have been relatively solid (Green's spectacular, obviously) but the rest of the blueliners leave a lot to be desired. Schultz might be No. 3 on that list, but Morrisonn, Jurcina and Erskine are usually wastes of space. Erskine could have been called for slashing about 10 times during the game -- mainly because he's slow and/or out of position.
There's no reason Karl Alzner shouldn't be up with the big club. GMGM needs to make the cap room and also focus on defense at the trade deadline. Some might argue that Fedorov plays better defense than some of the current crop.
Kozlov played well in his return as did Neuvirth.
It's also somewhat unbelievable that the Caps doubled the Thrashers on the shot tally, yet only won by one goal.
It's time to play the game.
First Period
The Caps came out with abandon and quickly got the lead. As the Caps skated on the power play, Alex Semin got a pass from Sergei Fedorov and unleashed a wrister (with a little deke) to give the Caps a 1-0 lead.
As Semin scored, Eric Perrin got called for slashing and the Caps got another extra-man advantage. On the ensuing power play, the Caps extended their lead. Mike Green launched a wrist shot from the point. The puck trickled through Lehtonen's legs and Brooks Laich slammed home the rebound for his 15th goal of the season.
From there, the penalty mongers got two (Milan Jurcina and Matt Bradley, both for hooking) but the Caps were able to kill off the power plays.
As Alex Ovechkin was skating on a shift later in the period, Rich Peverley hit him in the face with his stick (drawing blood) and got no call at all. He then went after Marty Reasoner and got called for roughing but there was no call on the Thrashers. That is one of the most blatant missed calls I've seen in a long time. Hopefully, Peverley gets fined for cheap-shotting the league's best play.
And, of course, the Thrashers scored on the ensuing man-advantage. Slava Kozlov (no relation) passed it down low to Todd White, who zipped it weak side to a wide-open Ilya Kovalchuk, who netted his 32nd tally of the season. The goal was met with loud boos and tons of "ref, you suck" chants.
Ovechkin's next shift on ice was full of lots of energy from the MVP, who clearly wants to score a ton and hit more than usual. It doesn't look like a sell-out, but boy is it loud as usual.
Brasher also is ready to fight to protect Ovie.
After one: Caps 2, Thrashers 1
Second Period
The stanza started with some excitement as Ovechkin continued his reckless abandon on the Thrashers, which led to a fight between Donald Brashear and Eric Boulton. The skirmish didn't have many punches, more skating and tangling, but once Brash started pummeling Boulton, that was the end of that.
The Thrashers hit the Caps where it hurt the most, however, not too much later. Peverley got open between the circles at the blueline and beat Neuvirth easily to tie the game at two. Shaone Morrisonn, Tom Poti and Semin all seemed to blame for the opening.
From there, the Thrashers took four straight penalties but the Caps could only convert on one, despite lots of shots and good chances. Green scored his 16th power play goal of the season, his 23rd overall, off some great passing from Semin and Nicklas Backstrom. The marker ties the club record (with Scott Stevens) for most power-play goals by a defenseman in a season and gives Green the NHL lead in that category. It also was Backstrom's 50th assist of the season.
Laich got called for interference at 16:07, but the Caps killed it off and head to the third period with a one-goal lead.
After two: Caps 3, Thrashers 2.
Third Period
The final stanza began with up-and-down action, but nothing overly notable until David Steckel started the one-man cycling show. That lead to a pass back to Morrisonn at the point. He flubbed a shot, but it went right to Eric Fehr, who buried the puck past Lehtonen to give the Caps a two-goal lead. Fehr's shot appeared to change directions on the way in and Lehtonen seemed to have it for a second. It's Fehr's 10th goal of the season in 41 games.
Boyd Gordon then got called for high-sticking and the Caps were back on the PK, which they killed off easily.
The Caps got another power play at 8:48, but it didn't result in much. Green also had a mind-numbing hit on Peverley, which was one of his best checks ever.
The Caps got their eighth power play of the night at 16:12, which actually led to a shorthanded goal for Atlanta -- their sixth shortie in the last six games. Kovalchuk got the puck in the Caps zone after the Thrashers had cleared it. Ovechkin came down low to help Green, but Todd White was wide open in the slot and beat Neuvirth for his 16th of the year. It cut the Caps' lead to just one goal and the Thrashers decided to call a timeout (and pull Lehtonen) with 1:10 left.
The Caps held on, despite some late Atlanta pressure.
Final shots: Caps 40, Thrashers 24
Final: Caps 4, Thrashers 3
Postgame Thoughts
This game is further proof that the Caps' biggest need is a defenseman. Green and Poti have been relatively solid (Green's spectacular, obviously) but the rest of the blueliners leave a lot to be desired. Schultz might be No. 3 on that list, but Morrisonn, Jurcina and Erskine are usually wastes of space. Erskine could have been called for slashing about 10 times during the game -- mainly because he's slow and/or out of position.
There's no reason Karl Alzner shouldn't be up with the big club. GMGM needs to make the cap room and also focus on defense at the trade deadline. Some might argue that Fedorov plays better defense than some of the current crop.
Kozlov played well in his return as did Neuvirth.
It's also somewhat unbelievable that the Caps doubled the Thrashers on the shot tally, yet only won by one goal.
Caps Look to Thrash Atlanta
Tonight's game marks the Caps' return to the Southeast Division which they lead by a whopping 13 points over the Florida Panthers. The Atlanta Thrashers (22-33-6), who visit tonight, are 31 points behind the Caps. But that doesn't mean the Caps can slouch at all.
The Caps lead the all-time series, 25-17-5-5, and leads at home, 15-7-3-1. That includes splitting the first two match-ups of this season (a 7-4 Thrash win on opening night, Oct. 10; and a 5-3 Caps' home victory on Nov. 26).
In fact, the Caps will play 13 of its remaining 21 games against Southeast Division foes, including four games against Atlanta. The Caps have played just 11 games against Southeast opponents (8-3-0), including four straight wins. Every other team in the league has played at least 13 games in their own division.
Michal Neuvirth apparently will start tonight with a back-to-back looming Saturday in Boston and Sunday at home against the Panthers. Neuvirth's only start this season was a 5-1 victory in Tampa on Feb. 14.
Tonight also marks the return of Viktor Kozlov, who is expected to join Nicklas Backstrom and Alex Ovechkin on the top line. That probably means Alex Semin and Sergei Fedorov will play on the second line together, unless Semin is scratched as I proposed yesterday.
The Caps lead the all-time series, 25-17-5-5, and leads at home, 15-7-3-1. That includes splitting the first two match-ups of this season (a 7-4 Thrash win on opening night, Oct. 10; and a 5-3 Caps' home victory on Nov. 26).
In fact, the Caps will play 13 of its remaining 21 games against Southeast Division foes, including four games against Atlanta. The Caps have played just 11 games against Southeast opponents (8-3-0), including four straight wins. Every other team in the league has played at least 13 games in their own division.
Michal Neuvirth apparently will start tonight with a back-to-back looming Saturday in Boston and Sunday at home against the Panthers. Neuvirth's only start this season was a 5-1 victory in Tampa on Feb. 14.
Tonight also marks the return of Viktor Kozlov, who is expected to join Nicklas Backstrom and Alex Ovechkin on the top line. That probably means Alex Semin and Sergei Fedorov will play on the second line together, unless Semin is scratched as I proposed yesterday.
February 25, 2009
Penalty Mongers: Who Will Pay?
After last night's 4-2 loss to the Flyers, in which the team took nine penalties for the second consecutive game, Coach Bruce Boudreau uttered this nugget, as chronicled in The Washington Post:
But who should be benched? Thanks to Japers' Rink, we know that the biggest penalty offenders in terms of PIMs per 60 minutes are Donald Brashear, Chris Clark (out for the rest of the year), Alex Semin, Shaone Morrisonn, John Erskine and Sergei Fedorov. We also know that Semin is at the top of the list when it comes to hooking penalties and similar infractions.
But would Boudreau actually scratch Semin to prove a point? It's certainly an interesting quandary for a player who has one more year (after this one) on his contract and has been at the center of much controversy.
These types of penalties, players often say, are due to a failure to move one's feet or be in the right position at the right time. Of those players on Japers' list, Brashear doesn't get a lot of ice time and, quite frankly, is on the ice for a specific purpose; most of the time, Brash getting a penalty is expected.
Morrisonn and Erskine are other options but both have been scratched this year and don't seem to be able to expand their roles. In fact, Mo's contract is up at the end of the year and he might even be back next season.
So that leaves Semin. Scratching him would send the biggest statement, especially because he's the second-leading goal-scorer (tied with Mike Green) on the team and he's good friends with Alex Ovechkin. This could be one of the biggest decisions of Boudreau's tenure so far behind the bench.
We'll find out tomorrow night.
"There comes a time when you have to start doing something about it," Boudreau said. "Maybe that time is now instead of just talking about it."
Asked if he meant benching players, he said: "Yeah. There's a couple out there."
Asked if he meant benching players, he said: "Yeah. There's a couple out there."
But who should be benched? Thanks to Japers' Rink, we know that the biggest penalty offenders in terms of PIMs per 60 minutes are Donald Brashear, Chris Clark (out for the rest of the year), Alex Semin, Shaone Morrisonn, John Erskine and Sergei Fedorov. We also know that Semin is at the top of the list when it comes to hooking penalties and similar infractions.
But would Boudreau actually scratch Semin to prove a point? It's certainly an interesting quandary for a player who has one more year (after this one) on his contract and has been at the center of much controversy.
These types of penalties, players often say, are due to a failure to move one's feet or be in the right position at the right time. Of those players on Japers' list, Brashear doesn't get a lot of ice time and, quite frankly, is on the ice for a specific purpose; most of the time, Brash getting a penalty is expected.
Morrisonn and Erskine are other options but both have been scratched this year and don't seem to be able to expand their roles. In fact, Mo's contract is up at the end of the year and he might even be back next season.
So that leaves Semin. Scratching him would send the biggest statement, especially because he's the second-leading goal-scorer (tied with Mike Green) on the team and he's good friends with Alex Ovechkin. This could be one of the biggest decisions of Boudreau's tenure so far behind the bench.
We'll find out tomorrow night.
February 24, 2009
Interesting Stat of the Day
Bruce Boudreau currently has 75 wins behind the Caps bench and took exactly 85 games to reach 50 wins. His predecessor, Glen Hanlon, had 78 wins in his entire 239-game tenure behind the bench and took 150 games to reach 50 wins.
Boudreau, by the way, is the fastest to reach 50 wins in Caps history and ranks sixth all-time among Caps coaches in terms of wins. The list:
Talk about unleashing the fury!
Meanwhile, don't miss "A Day in the Life" with Mike Green on NHL Network, premiering Thursday at 7. If you don't have a DVR or don't want to miss the first part of the Caps-Thrashers game, it also will air Saturday, Feb. 28 at 4:30 p.m., Sunday, March 1 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, March 7 at 5:30 p.m.
Boudreau, by the way, is the fastest to reach 50 wins in Caps history and ranks sixth all-time among Caps coaches in terms of wins. The list:
1. Bryan Murray, 343 wins
2. Ron Wilson, 192 wins
3. Terry Murray, 163 wins
4. Jim Schoenfeld, 113 wins
5. Glen Hanlon, 78 wins
6. Bruce Boudreau 75 wins
2. Ron Wilson, 192 wins
3. Terry Murray, 163 wins
4. Jim Schoenfeld, 113 wins
5. Glen Hanlon, 78 wins
6. Bruce Boudreau 75 wins
Talk about unleashing the fury!
Meanwhile, don't miss "A Day in the Life" with Mike Green on NHL Network, premiering Thursday at 7. If you don't have a DVR or don't want to miss the first part of the Caps-Thrashers game, it also will air Saturday, Feb. 28 at 4:30 p.m., Sunday, March 1 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, March 7 at 5:30 p.m.
What Makes a Stanley Cup Champion?
A look at the past three Stanley Cup champions reveals some goals for the Caps. It also demonstrates that the Caps are ahead of the curve in some areas.
Offense
What's Good: The Caps' attack compares favorably, lead of course by Alex Ovechkin (43 goals) -- who already has equaled a full-season's output by Henrik Zetterberg for the Detroit Red Wings last season. He's sure to pass Teemu Selanne (48) on the 2006-07 Anaheim Ducks and Eric Staal (45) on the 2005-06 Carolina Hurricanes. On those three teams, only Zetterberg failed to also lead his team in points; that honor befell Pavel Datsyuk (31 goals, 66 assists). However, the 'Canes had the most players (four) above 70 points. This year's Caps team already has four (Ovechkin, Alex Semin, Nick Backstrom, Mike Green) above 50 points. Similarly, the Caps' potent power play bodes well for postseason success.
What's Missing: The Wings, with Zetterberg and Johan Franzen, boasted what the Caps seem to crave: a big body (or two, in this case) to park in front of the net -- especially on the power play. Brooks Laich and Chris Clark (when healthy) are good at that, but they're not in class of the champs. Laich is heading in that direction; Clark, not so much.
Defense
What's Good: Green is the total package and gives Caps scoring from the blue line that is virtually unmatched throughout the league. The other defensemen are improving, and in many ways, aren't that different from the 'Canes squad (with Green giving the Caps a big advantage). Tom Poti's return from injury has helped the penalty kill, Jeff Schultz is plus-18 and the Caps have lots of size to go around. Karl Alzner has looked good in his time with the Caps.
What's Missing: Nick Lidstrom, Brian Rafalski, Chris Pronger and Scott Niedermayer. There's nobody in the class of those four (potential) future Hall of Famers in terms of pure defensive talent. Green's game in his own zone has drastically improved, but he's an offensive defenseman. The Caps need a veteran shutdown blueliner to not only help the squad but also tutor Alzner and other youngsters that might come along.
Goaltending
What's Good: Jose Theodore's record this season (23-11-3) compares favorably to that of Chris Osgood (27-9-4) and J.S. Giguere (36-10-8) and he's clearly been heating up as the season progresses. Plus, his finish last season helped propel the Colorado Avalanche into the playoffs -- winning a series with the Minnesota Wild before losing to the Wings.
What's Missing: The Wings' and Ducks' defense helped Osgood (2.09 GAA, .914 save percentage) and Giguere (2.26, .918) boast amazing numbers. And while Theo (2.79, .901) has been heading in the right direction lately, he's still not close to those Stanley Cup-winning tallies. Plus, there's still a group of Caps fans who get nervous every time No. 60 is between the pipes.
Coaching
What's Good: Bruce Boudreau clearly has his finger on the pulse of this team and has done everything right since he dropped fromHeaven Hershey last Thanksgiving. He's got tons of playoff experience in the AHL and did well to adjust during last year's series against the Philadelphia Flyers. Amazingly, Peter Laviolette led the 'Canes to the Cup in his second season in Carolina -- the only time the team made the postseason under his watch. It also only took Randy Carlyle two seasons to win in Anaheim and he's guided the Ducks to the playoffs every year he's been behind the bench. (Mike Babcock led the Wings to the Cup in his third season.)
What's Missing: Time. More for the roster to mature than anything else.
Schedule
What's Good: The Caps' penchant for winning consistently and a great home record compare favorably to that of a champion. They haven't been as dominant overall as the Ducks or Wings and won't win the President's Trophy this season, but they have been great against the Eastern Conference and at Verizon Center. The Wings were 29–9–3 last season at the Joe and the Ducks were 26-6-9 at Honda Center the year they won the Cup. The Caps (24-5-1) should equal or pass those marks this time around.
What's Missing: Wins against the West. All but one of the Caps' regulation home losses have come against teams from the other conference and their demeanor during those games is clearly not the same. Their overall 7-10 record against the West is proof. Granted, this (presumably) wouldn't be an issue in the playoffs but the Wings (7-3) and Ducks (6-4) performed well against the East during their Cup-winning seasons.
Conclusion
The Caps' two biggest needs are a veteran shutdown defenseman and a big presence in front of the net. The other thing might just be time for the youngsters to grow up a bit. Keep in mind that both the Wings and Ducks lost in the conference finals the year before winning the Cup and that might be the Caps' fate this season. (The 'Canes Cup win clearly was an anomaly.) This is a franchise built for the long haul and we clearly still haven't reached the top of the Caps' proverbial mountain yet.
Offense
What's Good: The Caps' attack compares favorably, lead of course by Alex Ovechkin (43 goals) -- who already has equaled a full-season's output by Henrik Zetterberg for the Detroit Red Wings last season. He's sure to pass Teemu Selanne (48) on the 2006-07 Anaheim Ducks and Eric Staal (45) on the 2005-06 Carolina Hurricanes. On those three teams, only Zetterberg failed to also lead his team in points; that honor befell Pavel Datsyuk (31 goals, 66 assists). However, the 'Canes had the most players (four) above 70 points. This year's Caps team already has four (Ovechkin, Alex Semin, Nick Backstrom, Mike Green) above 50 points. Similarly, the Caps' potent power play bodes well for postseason success.
What's Missing: The Wings, with Zetterberg and Johan Franzen, boasted what the Caps seem to crave: a big body (or two, in this case) to park in front of the net -- especially on the power play. Brooks Laich and Chris Clark (when healthy) are good at that, but they're not in class of the champs. Laich is heading in that direction; Clark, not so much.
Defense
What's Good: Green is the total package and gives Caps scoring from the blue line that is virtually unmatched throughout the league. The other defensemen are improving, and in many ways, aren't that different from the 'Canes squad (with Green giving the Caps a big advantage). Tom Poti's return from injury has helped the penalty kill, Jeff Schultz is plus-18 and the Caps have lots of size to go around. Karl Alzner has looked good in his time with the Caps.
What's Missing: Nick Lidstrom, Brian Rafalski, Chris Pronger and Scott Niedermayer. There's nobody in the class of those four (potential) future Hall of Famers in terms of pure defensive talent. Green's game in his own zone has drastically improved, but he's an offensive defenseman. The Caps need a veteran shutdown blueliner to not only help the squad but also tutor Alzner and other youngsters that might come along.
Goaltending
What's Good: Jose Theodore's record this season (23-11-3) compares favorably to that of Chris Osgood (27-9-4) and J.S. Giguere (36-10-8) and he's clearly been heating up as the season progresses. Plus, his finish last season helped propel the Colorado Avalanche into the playoffs -- winning a series with the Minnesota Wild before losing to the Wings.
What's Missing: The Wings' and Ducks' defense helped Osgood (2.09 GAA, .914 save percentage) and Giguere (2.26, .918) boast amazing numbers. And while Theo (2.79, .901) has been heading in the right direction lately, he's still not close to those Stanley Cup-winning tallies. Plus, there's still a group of Caps fans who get nervous every time No. 60 is between the pipes.
Coaching
What's Good: Bruce Boudreau clearly has his finger on the pulse of this team and has done everything right since he dropped from
What's Missing: Time. More for the roster to mature than anything else.
Schedule
What's Good: The Caps' penchant for winning consistently and a great home record compare favorably to that of a champion. They haven't been as dominant overall as the Ducks or Wings and won't win the President's Trophy this season, but they have been great against the Eastern Conference and at Verizon Center. The Wings were 29–9–3 last season at the Joe and the Ducks were 26-6-9 at Honda Center the year they won the Cup. The Caps (24-5-1) should equal or pass those marks this time around.
What's Missing: Wins against the West. All but one of the Caps' regulation home losses have come against teams from the other conference and their demeanor during those games is clearly not the same. Their overall 7-10 record against the West is proof. Granted, this (presumably) wouldn't be an issue in the playoffs but the Wings (7-3) and Ducks (6-4) performed well against the East during their Cup-winning seasons.
Conclusion
The Caps' two biggest needs are a veteran shutdown defenseman and a big presence in front of the net. The other thing might just be time for the youngsters to grow up a bit. Keep in mind that both the Wings and Ducks lost in the conference finals the year before winning the Cup and that might be the Caps' fate this season. (The 'Canes Cup win clearly was an anomaly.) This is a franchise built for the long haul and we clearly still haven't reached the top of the Caps' proverbial mountain yet.
Flyers Come Back to D.C.
The Caps (38-17-5) are taking a drive down Patrick Division (Memory) Lane, facing the Philadelphia Flyers (31-17-9) one game after defeating the Pittsburgh Penguins. The last time the Caps won consecutively-scheduled regular season games against Pittsburgh and Philadelphia (in either order) was on Oct. 30 and Nov. 1, 1996 -- when the Caps authored successive 4-2 wins at USAir Arena over the Flyers and Penguins, respectively.
The regular season schedule has placed back-to-back games with the Pens and Flyers on the Caps' plate five times in five different seasons since then, but the Caps have not been able to sweep any of those pairs of games. The Caps are 7-3-0 in the last 10 meetings with the Flyers and won all four meetings in 2006-07 to sweep the season series for the first time.
The Caps are 12-1-3 against Atlantic Division teams with four Atlantic games left on the schedule. After tonight, the red, white and blue will play 13 of its remaining 21 games against Southeast Division foes.
Meanwhile, the Flyers are 14-9-6 on the road including three straight wins away from Wachovia Center. They lost their only visit to Washington, 2-1, in a shootout on Jan. 6. The Flyers have outscored the Caps 5-1 in the third period this season. In just two games, Jeff Carter has five points (two goals, three assists) and a plus/minus rating of plus-5, while Scott Hartnell (three goals, one assist) and Joffrey Lupul (one goal, three assists) have four points each in the season series.
The Flyers are the only team in the NHL to not allow a shorthanded goal this season. The franchise has never gone the entire season without allowing a shorthanded goal. The fewest SHGs allowed by the Flyers in one season is two (1967-68 and 1978-79).
Yesterday, Flyers Captain Mike Richards was named the NHL's First Star of the week ending Feb. 22 for posting eight points (3G,5A) in two games.
Jose Theodore (23-11-3, 2.79 GAA, .901 save percentage) and Antero Niittymaki (13-5-4, 2.59 GAA, .916 save percentage) are expected to mine the nets tonight.
The regular season schedule has placed back-to-back games with the Pens and Flyers on the Caps' plate five times in five different seasons since then, but the Caps have not been able to sweep any of those pairs of games. The Caps are 7-3-0 in the last 10 meetings with the Flyers and won all four meetings in 2006-07 to sweep the season series for the first time.
The Caps are 12-1-3 against Atlantic Division teams with four Atlantic games left on the schedule. After tonight, the red, white and blue will play 13 of its remaining 21 games against Southeast Division foes.
Meanwhile, the Flyers are 14-9-6 on the road including three straight wins away from Wachovia Center. They lost their only visit to Washington, 2-1, in a shootout on Jan. 6. The Flyers have outscored the Caps 5-1 in the third period this season. In just two games, Jeff Carter has five points (two goals, three assists) and a plus/minus rating of plus-5, while Scott Hartnell (three goals, one assist) and Joffrey Lupul (one goal, three assists) have four points each in the season series.
The Flyers are the only team in the NHL to not allow a shorthanded goal this season. The franchise has never gone the entire season without allowing a shorthanded goal. The fewest SHGs allowed by the Flyers in one season is two (1967-68 and 1978-79).
Yesterday, Flyers Captain Mike Richards was named the NHL's First Star of the week ending Feb. 22 for posting eight points (3G,5A) in two games.
Jose Theodore (23-11-3, 2.79 GAA, .901 save percentage) and Antero Niittymaki (13-5-4, 2.59 GAA, .916 save percentage) are expected to mine the nets tonight.
February 23, 2009
Caps in Rivalry Mode
Yesterday's 5-2 win over the Pens was part one of a two-part Keystone State battle for the Caps, who came out with intensity and never stopped in playing one of their best games of late.
Sunday's win gave the Caps a 38-17-5 record at the 60-game mark, the best mark in franchise history during that stage of the season. The Capitals have 81 points in 60 games, tying a franchise record for the fastest team to 80 points; the 1984-85 team also achieved that mark in 60 games. The Caps would finish the season with 103 points if they play .500 hockey the rest of the way. They also are on pace to maintain their status as the first team in franchise history to go over .500 in each of the first five months of the season.
The Pens certainly did their best to make themselves at home, posting plenty of their logo-filled signs around the visitor's locker room, including a "It's a Hockey Night in Pittsburgh" poster that seemed way out of place. It didn't help them win, though.
"They put pressure up ice," Penguins Head Coach Dan Bylsma said. "When you do that, you can interrupt and delay and get the time off for the power play break out. They're aggressive in [the] zone. It really comes down to execution on a large part on several different plays."
Next up for the Caps are the Philadelphia Flyers, who visit tomorrow night at Verizon Center. Asked to compare the Pens and Flyers, Gabby was very democratic.
"I think they're both up there. We haven't played Pittsburgh in the playoffs yet but I think Tuesday's game will be another real intense [high-energy] crowd," Boudreau said. "For a Tuesday night game in Washington, it's going to be pretty exciting. We don't like them, they don't like us and that's the way it should be."
"They're pretty similar. Two great teams and, every time we play them, it's always a tough battle," Boyd Gordon added. "We know that going in and those are always the best games to play in."
Sunday's win gave the Caps a 38-17-5 record at the 60-game mark, the best mark in franchise history during that stage of the season. The Capitals have 81 points in 60 games, tying a franchise record for the fastest team to 80 points; the 1984-85 team also achieved that mark in 60 games. The Caps would finish the season with 103 points if they play .500 hockey the rest of the way. They also are on pace to maintain their status as the first team in franchise history to go over .500 in each of the first five months of the season.
The Pens certainly did their best to make themselves at home, posting plenty of their logo-filled signs around the visitor's locker room, including a "It's a Hockey Night in Pittsburgh" poster that seemed way out of place. It didn't help them win, though.
"They put pressure up ice," Penguins Head Coach Dan Bylsma said. "When you do that, you can interrupt and delay and get the time off for the power play break out. They're aggressive in [the] zone. It really comes down to execution on a large part on several different plays."
Next up for the Caps are the Philadelphia Flyers, who visit tomorrow night at Verizon Center. Asked to compare the Pens and Flyers, Gabby was very democratic.
"I think they're both up there. We haven't played Pittsburgh in the playoffs yet but I think Tuesday's game will be another real intense [high-energy] crowd," Boudreau said. "For a Tuesday night game in Washington, it's going to be pretty exciting. We don't like them, they don't like us and that's the way it should be."
"They're pretty similar. Two great teams and, every time we play them, it's always a tough battle," Boyd Gordon added. "We know that going in and those are always the best games to play in."
February 22, 2009
Caps-Penguins Live
Welcome to a sold-out Verizon Center, with lots of fans from both the Caps and the Pens. It's a fired-up atmosphere that seems to have elevated intensity from all parties involved.
First Period
Both teams came out with as much intensity as anticipated and unfortunately, it resulted in an early Pens power play courtesy of a Boyd Gordon tripping minor. The Caps killed it off and, just as the penalty was about to expire, Ryan Whitney got called for holding.
And the Caps converted on a beautiful bout of passing. Sergei Fedorov, along the goal line, found a cutting Nick Backstrom in the slot. Backs slid it over to Ovechkin, who unleashed a wicked slapper from his favorite spot at the faceoff circle to the give the Caps a 1-0 lead.
But it didn't last long. With the teams skating four-on-four, Mark Eaton fired it from the point and Jose Theodore gave up a juicy rebound to Maxime Talbot, who poked it past a helpless goalie to tie the game.
However, on the ensuing power play, Backstrom found a cutting Semin, who deked Fleury out of his jock and gave the Caps a 2-1 lead. Despite some other penalties, the Caps kept the lead after a spirited first period.
After one: Caps 2, Pens 1
Second Period
The Caps began where they left off at the start of the second. After killing off the rest of a Donald Brashear hooking penalty, Semin did a great job to keep the puck in the offensive zone and found a wide-open Fedorov, who unleashed a slapshot to give the Caps a two-goal lead.
The Penguins pulled closer on a power play goal by Sergei Gonchar, who unleashed a slapper from the left point.
But then the Caps took over. Ovechkin cut across the slot and was stopped by Fleury, but the rebound went right to Shaone Morrisonn, who unleashed one of his hardest slapshots ever past Fleury -- who had Eric Fehr blocking his view.
Less than a minute later, with the Caps dominating offensive zone time (again), Brooks Laich took the puck in the left corner and fired it off Fleury and into the net to give the Caps a 5-2 lead.
That was the end of the Fleury's day, who was replaced by Mathieu Garon.
Semin and Brooks Orpik took coincidental slashing penalties at 18:00, but the ensuing four-on-four yielding nothing.
The Caps are really taking it to the Pens, and playing one of their most complete games in a long time. And it's only been 40 minutes of play.
After two: Caps 5, Pens 2.
Third Period
The Caps continued to play hard as the final stanza began but it certainly wasn't like the earlier periods. However, they were relatively quiet before their second period outbreak, so they might be building to something.
That being said, the penalty total is way too high. Tom Poti and Fedorov both got two-minute minors in the first portion of the period. The Caps' offense has been great but it still seems that something is missing. (More on that later this week.)
Meanwhile, Sidney Crosby has been a non-factor today -- acting as his usual immature self. He's taken a few shots at Ovechkin, but he looked like a 21-year-old kid having a tantrum. Orpik also took a shot at Brashear, which didn't lead to a fight but certainly got the Caps' enforced more than a bit peeved.
The game definitely started to get chippy as it progressed and a cheap tripping call on Mo certainly didn't help. Semin got a two-on-one during the penalty kill. The Pens really didn't threaten and seemed content to stay on the perimeter.
It was a satisfying victory for the Caps, who needed a good effort after laying a massive egg Friday night against the Colorado Avalanche. And the "nah, nah, hey, hey, goodbye" chants were the icing on the cake.
Final: Caps 5, Pens 2
First Period
Both teams came out with as much intensity as anticipated and unfortunately, it resulted in an early Pens power play courtesy of a Boyd Gordon tripping minor. The Caps killed it off and, just as the penalty was about to expire, Ryan Whitney got called for holding.
And the Caps converted on a beautiful bout of passing. Sergei Fedorov, along the goal line, found a cutting Nick Backstrom in the slot. Backs slid it over to Ovechkin, who unleashed a wicked slapper from his favorite spot at the faceoff circle to the give the Caps a 1-0 lead.
But it didn't last long. With the teams skating four-on-four, Mark Eaton fired it from the point and Jose Theodore gave up a juicy rebound to Maxime Talbot, who poked it past a helpless goalie to tie the game.
However, on the ensuing power play, Backstrom found a cutting Semin, who deked Fleury out of his jock and gave the Caps a 2-1 lead. Despite some other penalties, the Caps kept the lead after a spirited first period.
After one: Caps 2, Pens 1
Second Period
The Caps began where they left off at the start of the second. After killing off the rest of a Donald Brashear hooking penalty, Semin did a great job to keep the puck in the offensive zone and found a wide-open Fedorov, who unleashed a slapshot to give the Caps a two-goal lead.
The Penguins pulled closer on a power play goal by Sergei Gonchar, who unleashed a slapper from the left point.
But then the Caps took over. Ovechkin cut across the slot and was stopped by Fleury, but the rebound went right to Shaone Morrisonn, who unleashed one of his hardest slapshots ever past Fleury -- who had Eric Fehr blocking his view.
Less than a minute later, with the Caps dominating offensive zone time (again), Brooks Laich took the puck in the left corner and fired it off Fleury and into the net to give the Caps a 5-2 lead.
That was the end of the Fleury's day, who was replaced by Mathieu Garon.
Semin and Brooks Orpik took coincidental slashing penalties at 18:00, but the ensuing four-on-four yielding nothing.
The Caps are really taking it to the Pens, and playing one of their most complete games in a long time. And it's only been 40 minutes of play.
After two: Caps 5, Pens 2.
Third Period
The Caps continued to play hard as the final stanza began but it certainly wasn't like the earlier periods. However, they were relatively quiet before their second period outbreak, so they might be building to something.
That being said, the penalty total is way too high. Tom Poti and Fedorov both got two-minute minors in the first portion of the period. The Caps' offense has been great but it still seems that something is missing. (More on that later this week.)
Meanwhile, Sidney Crosby has been a non-factor today -- acting as his usual immature self. He's taken a few shots at Ovechkin, but he looked like a 21-year-old kid having a tantrum. Orpik also took a shot at Brashear, which didn't lead to a fight but certainly got the Caps' enforced more than a bit peeved.
The game definitely started to get chippy as it progressed and a cheap tripping call on Mo certainly didn't help. Semin got a two-on-one during the penalty kill. The Pens really didn't threaten and seemed content to stay on the perimeter.
It was a satisfying victory for the Caps, who needed a good effort after laying a massive egg Friday night against the Colorado Avalanche. And the "nah, nah, hey, hey, goodbye" chants were the icing on the cake.
Final: Caps 5, Pens 2
February 20, 2009
A Lot to Laich
On a squad full of team-first players, perhaps nobody is more selfless than Brooks Laich. The six-foot-two, 200-pound forward from Wawota, Saskatchewan, came to Washington on Feb. 18, 2004, when the Caps sent Peter Bondra to Ottawa, where Laich only played one game (Feb. 3, 2004 at New Jersey). Since then, he's racked up 49 goals, 60 assists and lots of respect.
"Brooks is a warrior. It's not all about goals and assists with him; I think he's still going to get his 15 or 20 goals," Coach Bruce Boudreau said recently. "But he can play in all situations, I use him in all situations. He blocks shots, he cares so much. He comes to every game to play. He can play all three forward positions, he's a very valuable member of our team."
Laich (13 goals, 19 assists), who is signed through the 2010-11 season, has earned about 3:30 more ice time this season -- averaging about 17:30 per game -- and has blocked 36 shots while winning about half of his nearly 400 face-offs. And for a team suffering from penalty woes, Laich only has 21 PIMs.
"I don't think I've really done anything different [this season]. Each year, I just come in and try to improve my role on the hockey team," Laich told STC. "I try to be more dependable in my own zone, bring some more offense to the table. I'm a guy that plays both specialty teams, five-on-five, penalty kill and power play. So I try to bear down when I'm on the ice and do my job and try to grow my role a little bit."
Laich has played on many lines this season, even spending a few shifts with Alex Ovechkin on the top threesome. He averages 2:37 per game on the power play and 3:05 per game on the penalty kill. Laich and Nicklas Backstrom are the only Caps to play all 58 games this season. Laich also played in every game last season, when he registered 21 goals and 16 assists.
"Versatility, being able to be put on the ice in any situation. I think that's something I take a lot of pride in," he said. "Whether it's the power play or penalty kill, whether it's five-on-five or five-on-three, late in the hockey game, early in the hockey game, getting a good start. I try to be a guy that coach can always look down the bench and say 'yeah, I want to put him on the ice in this situation.'"
"Brooks is a warrior. It's not all about goals and assists with him; I think he's still going to get his 15 or 20 goals," Coach Bruce Boudreau said recently. "But he can play in all situations, I use him in all situations. He blocks shots, he cares so much. He comes to every game to play. He can play all three forward positions, he's a very valuable member of our team."
Laich (13 goals, 19 assists), who is signed through the 2010-11 season, has earned about 3:30 more ice time this season -- averaging about 17:30 per game -- and has blocked 36 shots while winning about half of his nearly 400 face-offs. And for a team suffering from penalty woes, Laich only has 21 PIMs.
"I don't think I've really done anything different [this season]. Each year, I just come in and try to improve my role on the hockey team," Laich told STC. "I try to be more dependable in my own zone, bring some more offense to the table. I'm a guy that plays both specialty teams, five-on-five, penalty kill and power play. So I try to bear down when I'm on the ice and do my job and try to grow my role a little bit."
Laich has played on many lines this season, even spending a few shifts with Alex Ovechkin on the top threesome. He averages 2:37 per game on the power play and 3:05 per game on the penalty kill. Laich and Nicklas Backstrom are the only Caps to play all 58 games this season. Laich also played in every game last season, when he registered 21 goals and 16 assists.
"Versatility, being able to be put on the ice in any situation. I think that's something I take a lot of pride in," he said. "Whether it's the power play or penalty kill, whether it's five-on-five or five-on-three, late in the hockey game, early in the hockey game, getting a good start. I try to be a guy that coach can always look down the bench and say 'yeah, I want to put him on the ice in this situation.'"
Caps Must Avoid Avalanche
The visiting Colorado Avalanche (27-30-1, 55) are last place in the West, but we all know that the Caps (37-16-5, 79) seem to falter against teams from the opposing conference. As proof, the Caps have suffered nine of their 16 regulation losses and three of their four home regulation losses to Western Conference opponents (7-9-0). Thankfully, there's only one more tilt against the West left on the schedule (March 10 in Nashville).
The Caps are 19-10-4-1 at home against the Quebec/Colorado franchise and are 7-1-1-1 over the last 10 meetings in Washington/Landover. There's only been one Caps home shutout, though, Nov. 23, 1985. Conversely, the Caps notched 12 on the then-Nordiques on Feb. 6, 1990 and Peter Bondra registered the only Caps home hat trick on March 6, 1997.
Former Avs goalie Jose Theodore, who lost to the Caps last season while he was still on that team (21 saves). In last year's meeting, Donald Brasher and David Steckel scored for the Caps in the third period, while Marek Svatos netted the Avs' only goal.
Theo is 14-4-2 with a 2.39 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage since Dec. 23.
Meanwhile, Alex Ovechkin (28 goals, 12 assists in his last 30 games) is good. OK, we knew that already, but how about yet-another-column that he's better than Sidney Crosby, who visits Verizon Center on Sunday. The Caps better not look past the 'Lanche or they will pay the price.
Note: While the 2009 Frozen Four at Verizon Center is sold-out, $10 tickets for the April 10 skills challenge go on sale Monday.
The Caps are 19-10-4-1 at home against the Quebec/Colorado franchise and are 7-1-1-1 over the last 10 meetings in Washington/Landover. There's only been one Caps home shutout, though, Nov. 23, 1985. Conversely, the Caps notched 12 on the then-Nordiques on Feb. 6, 1990 and Peter Bondra registered the only Caps home hat trick on March 6, 1997.
Former Avs goalie Jose Theodore, who lost to the Caps last season while he was still on that team (21 saves). In last year's meeting, Donald Brasher and David Steckel scored for the Caps in the third period, while Marek Svatos netted the Avs' only goal.
Theo is 14-4-2 with a 2.39 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage since Dec. 23.
Meanwhile, Alex Ovechkin (28 goals, 12 assists in his last 30 games) is good. OK, we knew that already, but how about yet-another-column that he's better than Sidney Crosby, who visits Verizon Center on Sunday. The Caps better not look past the 'Lanche or they will pay the price.
Note: While the 2009 Frozen Four at Verizon Center is sold-out, $10 tickets for the April 10 skills challenge go on sale Monday.
February 19, 2009
Inside the Press Box: Bill Clement
Storming the Crease is conducting a series of interviews with people who cover (or work for) the Caps and the NHL. You can find a link to the series archives on the right sidebar. Today's 19th installment: the ever-present Bill Clement.
1. How has your experience as a player helped during your broadcasting career?
For one thing, it would have been really tough trying to be an expert analyst in the sport of hockey had I not played the game. I think first-hand knowledge of what the athletes are thinking -- going through -- the emotional ups and downs, really helps my broadcasting as well.
2. Do you think NHL players should continue to participate in the Olympics and why?
Yes, because it is the greatest world stage for our sport. No, if it doesn't make sense logistically. Vancouver is a no-brainer. Russia in 2014? I'm not so sure. So much travel and so very taxing on the players asked to represent their countries.
3. What was your reaction when you found out ESPN wasn't keeping hockey and do you miss broadcasting games with Gary Thorne?
I was really disappointed when ESPN no longer had hockey and part of that was not being able to work with Gary. We are working together at the end of March on the EA Sports NHL 2010, so I'm really looking forward to that.
4. What are some of you favorite hockey-related moments?
Winning two Stanley Cups is at the top, but being able to broadcast 22 Stanley Cup Finals isn't far behind.
5. What occupies your time when you're not working?
If I'm not broadcasting, I'm always working on something. It's my nature. If it isn't a charity function, it's grabbing one of my two chainsaws and cutting some wood.
1. How has your experience as a player helped during your broadcasting career?
For one thing, it would have been really tough trying to be an expert analyst in the sport of hockey had I not played the game. I think first-hand knowledge of what the athletes are thinking -- going through -- the emotional ups and downs, really helps my broadcasting as well.
2. Do you think NHL players should continue to participate in the Olympics and why?
Yes, because it is the greatest world stage for our sport. No, if it doesn't make sense logistically. Vancouver is a no-brainer. Russia in 2014? I'm not so sure. So much travel and so very taxing on the players asked to represent their countries.
3. What was your reaction when you found out ESPN wasn't keeping hockey and do you miss broadcasting games with Gary Thorne?
I was really disappointed when ESPN no longer had hockey and part of that was not being able to work with Gary. We are working together at the end of March on the EA Sports NHL 2010, so I'm really looking forward to that.
4. What are some of you favorite hockey-related moments?
Winning two Stanley Cups is at the top, but being able to broadcast 22 Stanley Cup Finals isn't far behind.
5. What occupies your time when you're not working?
If I'm not broadcasting, I'm always working on something. It's my nature. If it isn't a charity function, it's grabbing one of my two chainsaws and cutting some wood.
Caps Win Thriller Over Habs
Last night's game proved that, no matter how much turmoil is going on, the Montreal Canadiens are not a team the Caps want to face in the postseason.
"I think for them, they played solid the whole game, but I think once we settled down I think both teams started to play a tight defensive game and that’s why the score was so close the whole game," Mike Green said.
Even though the Caps won, 4-3, and Alex Ovechkin scored one of the prettiest goals ever, there was still plenty to worry about.
* The penalty kill allowed three goals to the Canadiens, the third time this season the Caps have done that.
"I thought our penalty killing for a week was tremendous and tonight we took a little backstep, but hopefully it will be back on track in the next game," Coach Bruce Boudreau said.
* Untimely penalties. Yes, every penalty seemingly is not wanted, but the Caps are racking up way too many. The Caps are bottom-five in the league with 292 minor penalties, but have the seventh-fewest penalty minutes per game in the NHL. Go figure.
"What are you going to do? You can tell them and tell them and tell them, and then you have to make it the same for anybody," Boudreau said. "So you sit a guy out for taking a hooking penalty and then two minutes later Alexander [Semin] takes one and you have to sit him. You have to hope they get better and there are some questionable calls out there, but what are you going to do?"
Notes:
* NHL.com has a wonderful feature on Nicklas Backstrom as part of their preview for Sunday's Penguins-Caps tilt (12:30 p.m.., NBC).
* Random stat: Ovechkin has 205 goals in 301 NHL games; Viktor Kozlov has 196 goals in 877 games.
"I think for them, they played solid the whole game, but I think once we settled down I think both teams started to play a tight defensive game and that’s why the score was so close the whole game," Mike Green said.
Even though the Caps won, 4-3, and Alex Ovechkin scored one of the prettiest goals ever, there was still plenty to worry about.
* The penalty kill allowed three goals to the Canadiens, the third time this season the Caps have done that.
"I thought our penalty killing for a week was tremendous and tonight we took a little backstep, but hopefully it will be back on track in the next game," Coach Bruce Boudreau said.
* Untimely penalties. Yes, every penalty seemingly is not wanted, but the Caps are racking up way too many. The Caps are bottom-five in the league with 292 minor penalties, but have the seventh-fewest penalty minutes per game in the NHL. Go figure.
"What are you going to do? You can tell them and tell them and tell them, and then you have to make it the same for anybody," Boudreau said. "So you sit a guy out for taking a hooking penalty and then two minutes later Alexander [Semin] takes one and you have to sit him. You have to hope they get better and there are some questionable calls out there, but what are you going to do?"
Notes:
* NHL.com has a wonderful feature on Nicklas Backstrom as part of their preview for Sunday's Penguins-Caps tilt (12:30 p.m.., NBC).
* Random stat: Ovechkin has 205 goals in 301 NHL games; Viktor Kozlov has 196 goals in 877 games.
February 18, 2009
Caps-Habs Live
Welcome to a special 7:30 p.m. start at Verizon Center, where the Montreal Canadiens visit for the 6,000th game of their storied history. And, for the record, it's a lot colder here tonight.
First Period
The packed house was loud from the start, but despite some great Caps' pressure, it was the Canadiens that struck first after Mike Green got sent to the Sin Bin for sending the puck over the glass in his own zone. Just five seconds into the extra-man advantage, Christopher Higgins took a rebound off the boards and put it past a sprawling Jose Theodore for a 1-0 lead at 2:33. Too many Caps have taken this type of penalty this season.
What followed defies description. Alex Ovechkin took the puck along the boards, flipped it off the boards to himself past a turned-around Roman Hamrlik, and then cut to the net, was taken down by Kyle Chipchura and somehow put the puck past Carey Price for his 42nd goal of the season. The crowd went nuts, the "MVP" chants started and Ovie, seeing he was on the jumbotron, put his hand to his ear to encourage the cheers. Unbelievable.
(Thanks to JP, you can see for yourself.)
The Caps got a power play moments later and took the lead. Sergei Fedorov gathered the puck on the goal line next to Price and passed it to a cutting Nicklas Backstrom, who flipped it into the net for a 2-1 Caps' lead.
But the momentum wouldn't last, even as Theodore made some great saves. But Shaone Morrisonn got called for hooking and the Habs tied it up soon after. Andrei Kostitsyn took a pass from Andrei Markov and shot it into the net with Tomas Plekanec in front of Theodore. It was an odd bounce, but also continued a trend of Mo taking penalties that lead to opposition power-play goals.
After one: Caps 2, Habs 2.
Second Period
The stanza started with lots of back-and-forth action with the two teams exchanging chances. Both had a few near misses and it was more up-and-down than it was any extended offensive zone time.
Fedorov got called for hooking at 8:52 but the ensuing penalty kill was a great one with the Habs getting nary a chance. In fact, Fleischmann had some good offensive zone time with some nifty puck possession and Backstrom had a shot on goal. It was nice to see the Caps recover after allowing two first-period power play goals.
From there, the Caps got a great offensive-zone possession but Price inexplicably removed his helmet several times. Just after the puck was cleared and as the Caps emerged with a two-on-one, Price convinced the referees to stop play by removing his helmet again to a chorus of very loud boos.
The Caps did get a power play moments later after Hamrlik was called for interference, but couldn't earn much offensive-zone time and therefore didn't get any great scoring chances. In face, the entire period pretty much has been devoid of much defense -- but that's not the case in terms of excitement.
But with lots of shots, only four goals.
After two: Caps 2, Habs 2.
Third Period
More excitement as the final period (at least we think) starts, continuing the style of play from the first two periods. And like the first 40 minutes, there hasn't been much defense but the excitement (and noise from the sellout crowd of 18,277) has been monumental.
The Caps got a great chance when Ovechkin had a mini-breakaway but was hauled down to no call and plenty of boos. Moments later, Alex Semin was whistled for hooking at 8:48 and the Habs took advantage. Plekanec shot the puck at net and it trickled past Theodore at 8:57 to give the visitors a 3-2 lead (with every tally on the power play). Cue the obligatory "ref, you suck" chant. The interesting part is that Theo's made some great saves but he's also looked a bit dumbfounded at times.
There was a small scare when Ovechkin limped off the ice after blocking a shot but he was back for his next shift. Although there were some scares, the Caps' persistence and burgeoning pressure paid off by a line that had been playing well all night.
David Steckel won the face-off back to Tom Poti, whose shot was tipped byBoyd Gordon Brooks Laich back to Stecks, who deposited it past Price to tie the game at 17:21. The line probably was the Caps' hardest workers of the night.
After three: Caps 3, Habs 3.
Overtime
The four-on-four extra session was full of back-and-forth up-and-down action. Theo made some great saves, but perhaps the best one was the post, which Matthieu Schneider hit with less than a minute left in the extra session. Green and Semin also came close for the Caps, but we're heading to a shootout.
After OT: Caps 3, Habs 3.
Shootout
This season, the Habs are 7-4, while the Caps are 2-3.
Semin: goal on a nifty move after the puck trickled through Price's legs
Plekanec: no goal, Theo sliding save
Backstrom: goal on a wicked wrister far side
Markov: no goal, Theo saved a five-hole attempt
Final: Caps 4, Habs 3 (SO)
Three Stars
Third: Steckel
Second: Ovechkin
First: Markov
First Period
The packed house was loud from the start, but despite some great Caps' pressure, it was the Canadiens that struck first after Mike Green got sent to the Sin Bin for sending the puck over the glass in his own zone. Just five seconds into the extra-man advantage, Christopher Higgins took a rebound off the boards and put it past a sprawling Jose Theodore for a 1-0 lead at 2:33. Too many Caps have taken this type of penalty this season.
What followed defies description. Alex Ovechkin took the puck along the boards, flipped it off the boards to himself past a turned-around Roman Hamrlik, and then cut to the net, was taken down by Kyle Chipchura and somehow put the puck past Carey Price for his 42nd goal of the season. The crowd went nuts, the "MVP" chants started and Ovie, seeing he was on the jumbotron, put his hand to his ear to encourage the cheers. Unbelievable.
(Thanks to JP, you can see for yourself.)
The Caps got a power play moments later and took the lead. Sergei Fedorov gathered the puck on the goal line next to Price and passed it to a cutting Nicklas Backstrom, who flipped it into the net for a 2-1 Caps' lead.
But the momentum wouldn't last, even as Theodore made some great saves. But Shaone Morrisonn got called for hooking and the Habs tied it up soon after. Andrei Kostitsyn took a pass from Andrei Markov and shot it into the net with Tomas Plekanec in front of Theodore. It was an odd bounce, but also continued a trend of Mo taking penalties that lead to opposition power-play goals.
After one: Caps 2, Habs 2.
Second Period
The stanza started with lots of back-and-forth action with the two teams exchanging chances. Both had a few near misses and it was more up-and-down than it was any extended offensive zone time.
Fedorov got called for hooking at 8:52 but the ensuing penalty kill was a great one with the Habs getting nary a chance. In fact, Fleischmann had some good offensive zone time with some nifty puck possession and Backstrom had a shot on goal. It was nice to see the Caps recover after allowing two first-period power play goals.
From there, the Caps got a great offensive-zone possession but Price inexplicably removed his helmet several times. Just after the puck was cleared and as the Caps emerged with a two-on-one, Price convinced the referees to stop play by removing his helmet again to a chorus of very loud boos.
The Caps did get a power play moments later after Hamrlik was called for interference, but couldn't earn much offensive-zone time and therefore didn't get any great scoring chances. In face, the entire period pretty much has been devoid of much defense -- but that's not the case in terms of excitement.
But with lots of shots, only four goals.
After two: Caps 2, Habs 2.
Third Period
More excitement as the final period (at least we think) starts, continuing the style of play from the first two periods. And like the first 40 minutes, there hasn't been much defense but the excitement (and noise from the sellout crowd of 18,277) has been monumental.
The Caps got a great chance when Ovechkin had a mini-breakaway but was hauled down to no call and plenty of boos. Moments later, Alex Semin was whistled for hooking at 8:48 and the Habs took advantage. Plekanec shot the puck at net and it trickled past Theodore at 8:57 to give the visitors a 3-2 lead (with every tally on the power play). Cue the obligatory "ref, you suck" chant. The interesting part is that Theo's made some great saves but he's also looked a bit dumbfounded at times.
There was a small scare when Ovechkin limped off the ice after blocking a shot but he was back for his next shift. Although there were some scares, the Caps' persistence and burgeoning pressure paid off by a line that had been playing well all night.
David Steckel won the face-off back to Tom Poti, whose shot was tipped by
After three: Caps 3, Habs 3.
Overtime
The four-on-four extra session was full of back-and-forth up-and-down action. Theo made some great saves, but perhaps the best one was the post, which Matthieu Schneider hit with less than a minute left in the extra session. Green and Semin also came close for the Caps, but we're heading to a shootout.
After OT: Caps 3, Habs 3.
Shootout
This season, the Habs are 7-4, while the Caps are 2-3.
Semin: goal on a nifty move after the puck trickled through Price's legs
Plekanec: no goal, Theo sliding save
Backstrom: goal on a wicked wrister far side
Markov: no goal, Theo saved a five-hole attempt
Final: Caps 4, Habs 3 (SO)
Three Stars
Third: Steckel
Second: Ovechkin
First: Markov
No Case of the Hab-Nots
The Montreal Canadiens (30-21-6, 66 points), tonight's visitors to Verizon Center (7:30 p.m., CSN, NHLN, TSN), might be fifth in the East but there's plenty of turmoil floating around Les Habitant. As has been well-publicized, Alex Kovalev will not be traveling for tonight's game and Sergei Kostitsyn is now in the AHL. But Matthieu Schneider returns to the Canadiens roster after his trade from Atlanta.
"You just know that when you're facing a team that has the Montreal Canadiens logo on it, that you're playing a good team," Caps Coach Bruce Boudreau said after the morning skate. "They could be in the worst slump of the year but every team gets up for them as should we and that's what makes their history so big."
The Caps (36-16-5, 77 points) lead the all-time series at home, 30-27-9, and won a 3-0 decision on Nov. 28 in the team's only game this year at Verizon Center. The Caps will play nine of their next 10 games at home, where they are 22-4-1 this season (second best in the league behind San Jose). With a win tonight, the Caps would equal their home tally from last season.
"It's going to be a hard-fought game," John Erskine said. "They're below us and we want to stay ahead of them. It's almost like a playoff atmosphere."
The penalty kill has been hot lately as the Caps have allowed only one power-play goal in their last four games (killing off 20 of the last 21 opportunities). The power play also has been exceptional, recording at least one goal with the man-advantage in seven of the last eight games.
"We changed our [penalty kill] system a little bit. I don't think that was really the problem before," Brooks Laich said this morning. "We changed a little bit to be more aggressive and try to put more pressure on the other team when we get the puck down, when we get the puck into the neutral zone. Put more pressure rather than just setting up and letting them come back into our zone. And we've done a better job of clearing pucks in front of our net and getting the puck all the way down. The penalty kill's been big for us since the break and it's going to have to continue to get better [for us] to win some hockey games."
Meanwhile, Nicklas Backstrom has five multiple-assist games in his last eight outings and 47 helpers on the year -- fourth in the league and eight fewer than he had all last season.
"[I'm playing with] more confidence. The whole team is playing better [during] the whole season. That's the [biggest] difference [from last year]," Backstrom said. As for tonight, "they're a good team, they've got a lot of skilled guys and it's gonna be a tough game. We'll have to be at top level to beat them."
"I think they're going to be a recharged, revitalized group. There's some stuff going on in their hockey team. With Kovalev not making the trip and then also the trade for Matthieu Schneider, who's a very good hockey player that'll add a new dimension to their team," Laich added. "So they're going to come in, they're a hungry team, they haven't had a lot of success lately but that makes them very dangerous. We'll have to be at our best tonight if we want to compete against these guys."
"You just know that when you're facing a team that has the Montreal Canadiens logo on it, that you're playing a good team," Caps Coach Bruce Boudreau said after the morning skate. "They could be in the worst slump of the year but every team gets up for them as should we and that's what makes their history so big."
The Caps (36-16-5, 77 points) lead the all-time series at home, 30-27-9, and won a 3-0 decision on Nov. 28 in the team's only game this year at Verizon Center. The Caps will play nine of their next 10 games at home, where they are 22-4-1 this season (second best in the league behind San Jose). With a win tonight, the Caps would equal their home tally from last season.
"It's going to be a hard-fought game," John Erskine said. "They're below us and we want to stay ahead of them. It's almost like a playoff atmosphere."
The penalty kill has been hot lately as the Caps have allowed only one power-play goal in their last four games (killing off 20 of the last 21 opportunities). The power play also has been exceptional, recording at least one goal with the man-advantage in seven of the last eight games.
"We changed our [penalty kill] system a little bit. I don't think that was really the problem before," Brooks Laich said this morning. "We changed a little bit to be more aggressive and try to put more pressure on the other team when we get the puck down, when we get the puck into the neutral zone. Put more pressure rather than just setting up and letting them come back into our zone. And we've done a better job of clearing pucks in front of our net and getting the puck all the way down. The penalty kill's been big for us since the break and it's going to have to continue to get better [for us] to win some hockey games."
Meanwhile, Nicklas Backstrom has five multiple-assist games in his last eight outings and 47 helpers on the year -- fourth in the league and eight fewer than he had all last season.
"[I'm playing with] more confidence. The whole team is playing better [during] the whole season. That's the [biggest] difference [from last year]," Backstrom said. As for tonight, "they're a good team, they've got a lot of skilled guys and it's gonna be a tough game. We'll have to be at top level to beat them."
"I think they're going to be a recharged, revitalized group. There's some stuff going on in their hockey team. With Kovalev not making the trip and then also the trade for Matthieu Schneider, who's a very good hockey player that'll add a new dimension to their team," Laich added. "So they're going to come in, they're a hungry team, they haven't had a lot of success lately but that makes them very dangerous. We'll have to be at our best tonight if we want to compete against these guys."
February 17, 2009
Early Playoff Look, Western Edition
Yesterday, I looked at the East -- where the Boston Bruins are running away with the conference and the top-10 pretty much is set. In the West, however, while two teams (San Jose Sharks and Detroit Red Wings) are the cream of the crop by a mile, the other 13 teams are separated by 18 points. (The spread in the East from fourth to 15th is 29 points.)
The only two things the Sharks and Wings have to worry about between now and the end of the regular season is whether they or the Bruins will win the President's Trophy (and the worries that comes with it) and what trades to make between now and March 4. But the same cannot be said for the others.
The Calgary Flames and Chicago Blackhawks seem to be locks, with the Flames holding a strong lead in the Northwest Division. While the Hawks have the misfortune of being in the same division as the defending Stanley Cup champs, they still could garner a top-four seed and home ice for the first round.
The next five teams (Dallas Stars, Edmonton Oilers, Vancouver Canucks, Columbus Blue Jackets and Anaheim Ducks) are separated by just one point. The Stars (my pick to win the Cup this season) have been red-hot and the Canucks have been playing well lately. Both seem to be headed to the postseason.
Oilers: The young Oilers work hard and have some flashes of brilliance, which they've been able to translate into some consistency during their 30th anniversary season. This isn't a team that's a legitimate Cup contender, but that doesn't mean they can't sneak into the playoffs.
Blue Jackets: Behind Steve Mason, who should run away with the Calder Trophy and get Vezina votes, the relatively-low-scoring Jackets have ridden a defensive approach to the edge of the franchise's first playoff spot.
Ducks: The team that's not-too-far removed from a Stanley Cup certainly has some young talent but also still puts plenty of old-timers in the lineup on a regular basis. Jean-Sebastien Giguere has not been the same goalie that won the Cup but backup Jonas Hiller has saved the day now and again.
Other Contenders
Minnesota Wild: It's amazing that they're even in the conversation considering captain and pending unrestricted free agent Marian Gaborik is battling injuries (again) and hasn't played much. But, like the Blue Jackets, this is a team that takes goaltending and defense to another level and might be there at the end.
Los Angeles Kings: This very-young squad is certainly overachieving, although a very rough schedule lies ahead. But even if they don't make the postseason, this is a team that might ascend quickly in the next season or two.
Nashville Predators: The enigmatic Preds are in the race again and have enjoyed a 6-3 February so far. There isn't a superstar or sniper in the bunch (leading goal-getter Jason Arnott only has 21) but they've got solid goaltending, a good defense and a relentless work ethic.
My picks (in order of finish): Red Wings, Sharks, Flames, Stars, Blackhawks, Oilers, Canucks and Blue Jackets.
The only two things the Sharks and Wings have to worry about between now and the end of the regular season is whether they or the Bruins will win the President's Trophy (and the worries that comes with it) and what trades to make between now and March 4. But the same cannot be said for the others.
The Calgary Flames and Chicago Blackhawks seem to be locks, with the Flames holding a strong lead in the Northwest Division. While the Hawks have the misfortune of being in the same division as the defending Stanley Cup champs, they still could garner a top-four seed and home ice for the first round.
The next five teams (Dallas Stars, Edmonton Oilers, Vancouver Canucks, Columbus Blue Jackets and Anaheim Ducks) are separated by just one point. The Stars (my pick to win the Cup this season) have been red-hot and the Canucks have been playing well lately. Both seem to be headed to the postseason.
Oilers: The young Oilers work hard and have some flashes of brilliance, which they've been able to translate into some consistency during their 30th anniversary season. This isn't a team that's a legitimate Cup contender, but that doesn't mean they can't sneak into the playoffs.
Blue Jackets: Behind Steve Mason, who should run away with the Calder Trophy and get Vezina votes, the relatively-low-scoring Jackets have ridden a defensive approach to the edge of the franchise's first playoff spot.
Ducks: The team that's not-too-far removed from a Stanley Cup certainly has some young talent but also still puts plenty of old-timers in the lineup on a regular basis. Jean-Sebastien Giguere has not been the same goalie that won the Cup but backup Jonas Hiller has saved the day now and again.
Other Contenders
Minnesota Wild: It's amazing that they're even in the conversation considering captain and pending unrestricted free agent Marian Gaborik is battling injuries (again) and hasn't played much. But, like the Blue Jackets, this is a team that takes goaltending and defense to another level and might be there at the end.
Los Angeles Kings: This very-young squad is certainly overachieving, although a very rough schedule lies ahead. But even if they don't make the postseason, this is a team that might ascend quickly in the next season or two.
Nashville Predators: The enigmatic Preds are in the race again and have enjoyed a 6-3 February so far. There isn't a superstar or sniper in the bunch (leading goal-getter Jason Arnott only has 21) but they've got solid goaltending, a good defense and a relentless work ethic.
My picks (in order of finish): Red Wings, Sharks, Flames, Stars, Blackhawks, Oilers, Canucks and Blue Jackets.
February 16, 2009
Early Playoff Look, Eastern Edition
With 25 games left, the Caps have a great shot at a strong finish thanks to a decent schedule and based on their past history. But what about the rest of the league? Today, we'll look at the Eastern Conference.
Barring any major meltdowns, the Boston Bruins, New Jersey Devils, Caps and Philadelphia Flyers should be the top four seeds.
The Montreal Canadiens and New York Rangers have a lesser hold on their respective playoff spots -- especially with some shaky play of late. But, quite frankly, I'd be shocked if either missed the postseason.
That leaves two spots available among four teams -- Florida Panthers, Buffalo Sabres, Carolina Hurricanes and Pittsburgh Penguins.
Panthers: The future of Jay Bouwmeester is the $10 million question in Florida and will determine whether the Cats are buyers or sellers. In the two weeks until the trading deadline, the Panthers either need to take their chances that "J-Bo" will stay next season or send him elsewhere and hope they can still sneak into the postseason.
Sabres: With Tomas Vanek injured for a while, the Sabres must find a way to put the puck in the net without one of the NHL's top goal-getters.
Hurricanes: The 'Canes have been falling apart for a while, starting with the stretch that led to the head coaching change. This is an aging team that, even if they qualify for the postseason, has nearly no shot to win the Stanley Cup. It's a situation that's screaming for a rebuild, especially with Erik Cole skating for the Edmonton Oilers.
Penguins: The firing of coach Michel Therrien Sunday night might have been the nail in the coffin, but last year's Stanley Cup finalists still could have one more run in them. If they can return to form for the season's final quarter, the non-flying birds might have a shot.
My picks (in order of finish): Bruins, Caps, Devils, Flyers, Canadiens, Rangers, Panthers and Sabres.
Barring any major meltdowns, the Boston Bruins, New Jersey Devils, Caps and Philadelphia Flyers should be the top four seeds.
The Montreal Canadiens and New York Rangers have a lesser hold on their respective playoff spots -- especially with some shaky play of late. But, quite frankly, I'd be shocked if either missed the postseason.
That leaves two spots available among four teams -- Florida Panthers, Buffalo Sabres, Carolina Hurricanes and Pittsburgh Penguins.
Panthers: The future of Jay Bouwmeester is the $10 million question in Florida and will determine whether the Cats are buyers or sellers. In the two weeks until the trading deadline, the Panthers either need to take their chances that "J-Bo" will stay next season or send him elsewhere and hope they can still sneak into the postseason.
Sabres: With Tomas Vanek injured for a while, the Sabres must find a way to put the puck in the net without one of the NHL's top goal-getters.
Hurricanes: The 'Canes have been falling apart for a while, starting with the stretch that led to the head coaching change. This is an aging team that, even if they qualify for the postseason, has nearly no shot to win the Stanley Cup. It's a situation that's screaming for a rebuild, especially with Erik Cole skating for the Edmonton Oilers.
Penguins: The firing of coach Michel Therrien Sunday night might have been the nail in the coffin, but last year's Stanley Cup finalists still could have one more run in them. If they can return to form for the season's final quarter, the non-flying birds might have a shot.
My picks (in order of finish): Bruins, Caps, Devils, Flyers, Canadiens, Rangers, Panthers and Sabres.
February 15, 2009
Ovechkin Does It Again!
There aren't enough superlatives in the English language to describe what Alex Ovechkin does on a daily basis. With less than five minutes left in a tie game against the Florida Panthers, Ovie shot from an impossible angle to give the Caps a one-goal lead. And then, as if that wasn't enough, he made an amazing shot into an empty net from his own end to ice a 4-2 Caps' win over the Cats. Words simply cannot do these goals justice, so when you get the chance if you haven't already, watch them:
The Great Eight now has 41 goals on the season (including three hat tricks, such as the one tonight) and is not only running away with the Rocket Richard Trophy but has put the Caps on his back (again). Mike Green didn't score, but Eric Fehr netted his ninth of the season and is clearly playing with confidence -- another great sign for the Caps.
The Caps have a 13-point lead in the Southeast Division and are tied with the New Jersey Devils for second in the Eastern Conference. The Caps are off until Wednesday night, when Les Habitant visit Verizon Center, where the team will play nine of their next 10 games before venturing on a scary seven-of-eight stretch on the road.
The Great Eight now has 41 goals on the season (including three hat tricks, such as the one tonight) and is not only running away with the Rocket Richard Trophy but has put the Caps on his back (again). Mike Green didn't score, but Eric Fehr netted his ninth of the season and is clearly playing with confidence -- another great sign for the Caps.
The Caps have a 13-point lead in the Southeast Division and are tied with the New Jersey Devils for second in the Eastern Conference. The Caps are off until Wednesday night, when Les Habitant visit Verizon Center, where the team will play nine of their next 10 games before venturing on a scary seven-of-eight stretch on the road.
Fifty-Two Picks Up Record Goal
Mike Green's stock has been rising this year -- and it's nice that it's only the first year of his new four-year deal. In fact, some believe he could be the one to break Paul Coffey's NHL record of 48 goals by a defenseman (but not this year).
But here's the most amazing part about Green: if you counted only his totals from the last seven games (10g-7a), Green would rank tied for seventh among NHL defensemen in goals for the entire season. Talk about a game changer.
If Green scores again tonight, he can equal the Caps' record of nine straight games with a goal for any position -- a record currently held by Mike Gartner (1986-87) and Alan Haworth (1985-86).
In last night's 5-1 demolition of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Green's tally (22) was his 8th straight game with a goal -- setting a new NHL record for blueliners. Alex Ovechkin (38), Alexander Semin (21), Eric Fehr (8) and Shaone Morrisonn (2) also scored for the victorious Caps. Michal Neuvirth earned his first NHL win. Fehr played with Sergei Fedorov and Tomas Fleischmann.
"You just can't call them the F-Line," Boudreau joked. "That doesn't sound right. They've played two real good games together, and they'll be together again tomorrow night."
Boudreau was referring to tonight's contest (5 p.m., CSN) against the Florida Panthers, which pits the Caps against their only legitimate divisional competitor. The Caps split the previous two games against the Cats this season (both at Verizon Center) and know the game tonight will be extremely tough. Jose Theodore should be back in net.
The Panthers are 12-3-3 since Jan. 1 and had crept to within nine points of the Caps before last night's game. Florida is bidding for its first playoff berth since 1999-2000.
But here's the most amazing part about Green: if you counted only his totals from the last seven games (10g-7a), Green would rank tied for seventh among NHL defensemen in goals for the entire season. Talk about a game changer.
If Green scores again tonight, he can equal the Caps' record of nine straight games with a goal for any position -- a record currently held by Mike Gartner (1986-87) and Alan Haworth (1985-86).
In last night's 5-1 demolition of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Green's tally (22) was his 8th straight game with a goal -- setting a new NHL record for blueliners. Alex Ovechkin (38), Alexander Semin (21), Eric Fehr (8) and Shaone Morrisonn (2) also scored for the victorious Caps. Michal Neuvirth earned his first NHL win. Fehr played with Sergei Fedorov and Tomas Fleischmann.
"You just can't call them the F-Line," Boudreau joked. "That doesn't sound right. They've played two real good games together, and they'll be together again tomorrow night."
Boudreau was referring to tonight's contest (5 p.m., CSN) against the Florida Panthers, which pits the Caps against their only legitimate divisional competitor. The Caps split the previous two games against the Cats this season (both at Verizon Center) and know the game tonight will be extremely tough. Jose Theodore should be back in net.
The Panthers are 12-3-3 since Jan. 1 and had crept to within nine points of the Caps before last night's game. Florida is bidding for its first playoff berth since 1999-2000.
February 13, 2009
Sunshine State of Mind
The Caps (34-16-5, 73) head south to face the Tampa Bay Lightning (19-25-11, 49) tomorrow and Florida Panthers (27-19-8, 62) Sunday -- playing two teams going in opposite directions. We'll have more on Florida on Sunday, but know this: after last night's 5-0 thrashing of the Carolina Hurricanes, they're firmly the second-best team in the Southeast Division chasing the Caps.
As for Tampa, they've got a whole bay-sized load of problems. Firstly, they've got three players (Vinny Lecavalier, Ryan Malone and Martin St. Louis) making a combined $18 million. Out of the rest of the team, only two players (Jeff Halpern and Vaclav Prospal) make $2 million or more. So we have Vinny, Marty and friends. Probably why this hasn't translated to winning.
Lecavalier (25 goals, 26 assists), St. Louis (20 goals, 34 assists) and Malone (18 goals, 12 assists) are having nice seasons -- but nothing that would blow you away. Meanwhile, the Lightning's goalie situation is a mess: Olie Kolzig done for the season (and maybe his career) and Mike Smith out for a while with post-concussion syndrome. Rookie Mike McKenna started last night's 6-4 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs, while Karri Ramo is there too.
The Lightning are 7-21 in one-goal games this season, 5-16-6 when their opponent scores first and 4-8-3 against the Southeast Division. Despite last night's output, the Lightning are averaging 2.53 goals per game (24th in the league) and allowing 2.98 (23rd). Their special teams (16.7 percent on the power play and 80.8 penalty kill) also are towards the bottom of the league.
So the Caps have to do something they've only been average at this season: win a road game against a non-playoff team.
As for Tampa, they've got a whole bay-sized load of problems. Firstly, they've got three players (Vinny Lecavalier, Ryan Malone and Martin St. Louis) making a combined $18 million. Out of the rest of the team, only two players (Jeff Halpern and Vaclav Prospal) make $2 million or more. So we have Vinny, Marty and friends. Probably why this hasn't translated to winning.
Lecavalier (25 goals, 26 assists), St. Louis (20 goals, 34 assists) and Malone (18 goals, 12 assists) are having nice seasons -- but nothing that would blow you away. Meanwhile, the Lightning's goalie situation is a mess: Olie Kolzig done for the season (and maybe his career) and Mike Smith out for a while with post-concussion syndrome. Rookie Mike McKenna started last night's 6-4 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs, while Karri Ramo is there too.
The Lightning are 7-21 in one-goal games this season, 5-16-6 when their opponent scores first and 4-8-3 against the Southeast Division. Despite last night's output, the Lightning are averaging 2.53 goals per game (24th in the league) and allowing 2.98 (23rd). Their special teams (16.7 percent on the power play and 80.8 penalty kill) also are towards the bottom of the league.
So the Caps have to do something they've only been average at this season: win a road game against a non-playoff team.
February 12, 2009
Green Glows in Caps' Shootout Loss
Mike Green is in another stratosphere. With two goals last night in a 5-4 fluky shootout loss to the New York Rangers, he's now the second-leading goal scorer (21) on the team (ahead of everybody except that Ovie guy) and tied for 24th in the league with Sidney Crosby, Marc Savard, Shane Doan, Simon Gagne, Brian Little and Petr Sykora -- one of whom (Doan) is his team's leader.
On TSN's "Wednesday Night Hockey," former Tampa Coach John Tortorella said Green's prowess in the defensive zone isn't that important because he's so skilled offensively. Granted, Green is improving in his own zone -- but he's clearly the epitome of an offensive defenseman. They added that Green should be a lock for Canada's 2010 Olympic team.
As for the rest of the Caps, Jose Theodore was huge in the third period as the rest of the team spent half the stanza in the penalty box. Good penalty killing notwithstanding, the Caps didn't play solid defensively and certainly weren't able to put the Rangers away. That being said, it was a pretty decent game for the Caps -- who can't win every game. So if they're going to lose, getting a standings point isn't so bad.
The Caps are tied with the New Jersey Devils for second in the East with 73 points in a see-saw that should continue until the end of the season. The Caps are off until a back-to-back in the Sunshine State: Saturday at the Lightning, Sunday at the Florida Panthers.
On TSN's "Wednesday Night Hockey," former Tampa Coach John Tortorella said Green's prowess in the defensive zone isn't that important because he's so skilled offensively. Granted, Green is improving in his own zone -- but he's clearly the epitome of an offensive defenseman. They added that Green should be a lock for Canada's 2010 Olympic team.
As for the rest of the Caps, Jose Theodore was huge in the third period as the rest of the team spent half the stanza in the penalty box. Good penalty killing notwithstanding, the Caps didn't play solid defensively and certainly weren't able to put the Rangers away. That being said, it was a pretty decent game for the Caps -- who can't win every game. So if they're going to lose, getting a standings point isn't so bad.
The Caps are tied with the New Jersey Devils for second in the East with 73 points in a see-saw that should continue until the end of the season. The Caps are off until a back-to-back in the Sunshine State: Saturday at the Lightning, Sunday at the Florida Panthers.
February 11, 2009
If They Can Make It There...
The old Frank Sinatra song seems especially apropos to tonight's Caps visit to the home-standing New York Rangers because they have a chance to sweep the season series for the first time in franchise history. Only twice in the Caps' previous 33 years of existence (1999-2000, when they were 3-0-0-1; and 2002-03, when they went 2-0-1-1) did the Caps go through a season without suffering a loss to the Blueshirts.
Overall, the Caps lead the all-time series 85-74-19-4 (36-43-9-1 at Madison Square Garden) and have won five in a row in the series, matching their longest winning streak in history against the Rangers. Bruce Boudreau is 5-0-0 against the Rangers in his head coaching career (Tampa, 7-0-0, is the only other Eastern Conference team that he is undefeated against).
The Caps are 12-12-3 on the road this season, with 14 games left (including tonight's) away from Verizon Center. (The next two come this weekend at Tampa Saturday night and Florida on Sunday.) After a slow start, the red, white and blue are 7-3-1 in its last 11 road games. The Caps still enjoy a 12-point lead in the Southeast Division over the Panthers (with one game in hand).
The Blueshirts, meanwhile, have lost their last five games (0-4-1), scored just five goals during that stretch and have been shut out three of their past seven contests. They're 7-9-3 in their last 19 games and now reside third in the Atlantic Division and sixth in the Eastern Conference.
The Caps' power play has ridden its hot streak, ranking third in the league with a 23.6 percent success rate and fifth for road power-play (21.8). Mike Green, who has a chance to tie the NHL record for defensemen tonight by scoring in his seventh straight game, has led the charge with 14 power play goals (second in the NHL). Green's 19 goals ranks third on the Caps, 43rd among NHL skaters and tops among defenseman (by five over Sheldon Souray and Shea Weber).
And let us not forget Alex Ovechkin, who has 23 goals and 34 points in his last 26 games (including seven two-goal outputs).
The Rangers have the league's top home penalty kill (87.8 percent) but are an embarrassing 15.1 percent on the power play at Madison Square Garden. But, they've only surrendered one goal on the power play in their last three home games (11-of-12, 91.7 percent) and tallied 13 power play goals in their last 12 meetings against the Caps (13-of-53, 24.5 percent).
UPDATE: Jay Beagle, 23, has been recalled from Hershey to play tonight, meaning Alex Semin most likely will not dress. Beagle has two goals and three assists this year for the Bears. It's certainly an interesting choice.
Overall, the Caps lead the all-time series 85-74-19-4 (36-43-9-1 at Madison Square Garden) and have won five in a row in the series, matching their longest winning streak in history against the Rangers. Bruce Boudreau is 5-0-0 against the Rangers in his head coaching career (Tampa, 7-0-0, is the only other Eastern Conference team that he is undefeated against).
The Caps are 12-12-3 on the road this season, with 14 games left (including tonight's) away from Verizon Center. (The next two come this weekend at Tampa Saturday night and Florida on Sunday.) After a slow start, the red, white and blue are 7-3-1 in its last 11 road games. The Caps still enjoy a 12-point lead in the Southeast Division over the Panthers (with one game in hand).
The Blueshirts, meanwhile, have lost their last five games (0-4-1), scored just five goals during that stretch and have been shut out three of their past seven contests. They're 7-9-3 in their last 19 games and now reside third in the Atlantic Division and sixth in the Eastern Conference.
The Caps' power play has ridden its hot streak, ranking third in the league with a 23.6 percent success rate and fifth for road power-play (21.8). Mike Green, who has a chance to tie the NHL record for defensemen tonight by scoring in his seventh straight game, has led the charge with 14 power play goals (second in the NHL). Green's 19 goals ranks third on the Caps, 43rd among NHL skaters and tops among defenseman (by five over Sheldon Souray and Shea Weber).
And let us not forget Alex Ovechkin, who has 23 goals and 34 points in his last 26 games (including seven two-goal outputs).
The Rangers have the league's top home penalty kill (87.8 percent) but are an embarrassing 15.1 percent on the power play at Madison Square Garden. But, they've only surrendered one goal on the power play in their last three home games (11-of-12, 91.7 percent) and tallied 13 power play goals in their last 12 meetings against the Caps (13-of-53, 24.5 percent).
UPDATE: Jay Beagle, 23, has been recalled from Hershey to play tonight, meaning Alex Semin most likely will not dress. Beagle has two goals and three assists this year for the Bears. It's certainly an interesting choice.
February 10, 2009
Inside the Press Box: Carrie Milbank
Storming the Crease is conducting a series of interviews with people who cover (or work for) the Caps and the NHL. You can find a link to the series archives on the right sidebar. Today's 18th installment: NHL.com's Carrie Milbank.
1. What first brought you to "The Hockey Show" and the NHL Network?
Well I grew up in Texas, aka Football Country, so I was pretty much brought up as a closet hockey fan. When I found out about the opportunity to work with the NHL I was all over it. Lucky for me, the feeling was mutual.
2. What was the inspiration behind your great series of commercials for NHL.com?
The "On The Road With Carrie Milbank" commercials weren't my idea but I fell in love with the script immediately because I thought it was clever and funny -- the type of commercial I would actually enjoy watching. The whole idea is that NHL.com appeals to all types of hockey people from a coach, to an announcer, to parents of players -- and fans, of course. And I can't forget to mention the BEST part of NHL.com: "The Hockey Show!"
3. Where does hockey rank among all of your endeavors?
I eat, sleep, and breathe hockey and that's STILL not enough time to discover all of its nuances, but that's the beauty of the job and hey, someone's gotta do it.
4. What's your favorite hockey-related memory or memories?
I haven't even been hosting "The Hockey Show" for a year yet and I already have way too many to mention! I wish I had more opportunities to talk with the players because my favorite thing to do is learn more about them. They're so interesting and real, and I like to hear what they have to say about things other than hockey. Of course, most of the time I end up becoming a fan of all the guys which makes it tough to decide who to root for. I also still get the chills every time I'm near the Stanley Cup, so that ranks right up at the top of the list too.
5. What occupies your time when you're not working?
I wish I had something more exciting to say but when I'm not working, I really looooooove to sleep. Actually, I do a lot of traveling too and I get really excited about staying in hotels. I have an entire basket full of hotel soaps and lotions from all over the world. OK, that probably sounds weird but I also have a tradition where I pick up a unique or funky ring everywhere I go, so if I have a daughter someday I can pass down a nice little collection to her.
1. What first brought you to "The Hockey Show" and the NHL Network?
Well I grew up in Texas, aka Football Country, so I was pretty much brought up as a closet hockey fan. When I found out about the opportunity to work with the NHL I was all over it. Lucky for me, the feeling was mutual.
2. What was the inspiration behind your great series of commercials for NHL.com?
The "On The Road With Carrie Milbank" commercials weren't my idea but I fell in love with the script immediately because I thought it was clever and funny -- the type of commercial I would actually enjoy watching. The whole idea is that NHL.com appeals to all types of hockey people from a coach, to an announcer, to parents of players -- and fans, of course. And I can't forget to mention the BEST part of NHL.com: "The Hockey Show!"
3. Where does hockey rank among all of your endeavors?
I eat, sleep, and breathe hockey and that's STILL not enough time to discover all of its nuances, but that's the beauty of the job and hey, someone's gotta do it.
4. What's your favorite hockey-related memory or memories?
I haven't even been hosting "The Hockey Show" for a year yet and I already have way too many to mention! I wish I had more opportunities to talk with the players because my favorite thing to do is learn more about them. They're so interesting and real, and I like to hear what they have to say about things other than hockey. Of course, most of the time I end up becoming a fan of all the guys which makes it tough to decide who to root for. I also still get the chills every time I'm near the Stanley Cup, so that ranks right up at the top of the list too.
5. What occupies your time when you're not working?
I wish I had something more exciting to say but when I'm not working, I really looooooove to sleep. Actually, I do a lot of traveling too and I get really excited about staying in hotels. I have an entire basket full of hotel soaps and lotions from all over the world. OK, that probably sounds weird but I also have a tradition where I pick up a unique or funky ring everywhere I go, so if I have a daughter someday I can pass down a nice little collection to her.
It's the Ice, Ice Baby
Pardon the bad Vanilla Ice reference, but Verizon Center's ice surface has made it to the pages of the Washington Post and Washington Times in a big way. It's such a controversial issue that, according to Tarik's article, "three Capitals confirmed they had been asked by the team not to discuss the ice conditions with reporters."
Howstuffworks.com has a great feature on the making of hockey ice which, not surprisingly, emphases the importance of temperature at the arena.
A good lesson for Verizon Center -- especially when there's a basketball game.
UPDATE: Ted replied on his blog.
Howstuffworks.com has a great feature on the making of hockey ice which, not surprisingly, emphases the importance of temperature at the arena.
"When creating a new ice surface, indoor conditions are very important. [RBC Center ice supervisor Don] MacMillan says he likes to 'keep the skating surface at 24 to 26 F (about -4 C), the building temperature at about 63 F (17 C), and the indoor humidity at about 30 percent. But if it's warm outdoors and we have an event where the doors are open and all that warm air comes in, then we have to adjust it. Even one degree can make a big difference in the quality of the ice.'"
A good lesson for Verizon Center -- especially when there's a basketball game.
UPDATE: Ted replied on his blog.
February 9, 2009
NHL Rocks the Red, Blue and Black
The NHL's 30 squads have different uniforms, but all are dominated by three colors: red, blue and black. The Caps, of course, wear their awesome red -- while the Avalanche don red with lots of help.
Not all blues are created alike -- as evidenced by the San Jose Sharks (yes, I know it's teal), Edmonton Oilers and Atlanta Thrashers.
As for black, well it's pretty much all the same -- with the Boston Bruins getting the edge as best.
A breakdown of the main color featured on the clubs' primary home sweater:
Blue (12): Rangers, Islanders, Maple Leafs, Sabres, Panthers, Thrashers, Blue Jackets, Blues, Predators, Canucks, Oilers and Sharks.
Red (11): Devils, Canadiens (except when they wear these), Senators, Caps, Canes, Red Wings, Blackhawks, Flames, Wild, Avalanche and Coyotes.
Black (7): Flyers, Penguins, Bruins, Lightning, Stars, Ducks and Kings.
So while the Caps continue to rock the red, the NHL favors blue -- if only by a nose.
Not all blues are created alike -- as evidenced by the San Jose Sharks (yes, I know it's teal), Edmonton Oilers and Atlanta Thrashers.
As for black, well it's pretty much all the same -- with the Boston Bruins getting the edge as best.
A breakdown of the main color featured on the clubs' primary home sweater:
Blue (12): Rangers, Islanders, Maple Leafs, Sabres, Panthers, Thrashers, Blue Jackets, Blues, Predators, Canucks, Oilers and Sharks.
Red (11): Devils, Canadiens (except when they wear these), Senators, Caps, Canes, Red Wings, Blackhawks, Flames, Wild, Avalanche and Coyotes.
Black (7): Flyers, Penguins, Bruins, Lightning, Stars, Ducks and Kings.
So while the Caps continue to rock the red, the NHL favors blue -- if only by a nose.
Green Repeats As Third Star
For the second consecutive week, Mike Green has been named the NHL's third star after posting four goals and three assists last week. He's scored a goal in six straight games, the best mark for a defenseman since some guy named Ray Bourque did it in 1984. He's also one shy of the league record for blueliners, set by the Boston Bruins' Mike O'Connell in January 1984
The week's top star was Jonathan Quick, who stoned the Caps many times on Thursday in a 5-4 Kings' win.
Also, the Caps-Pens game on Feb. 22 will now start at 12:30 and be NBC's game of the week. The Caps won the teams' two previous meetings this season, both in Pittsburgh. The teams will meet again March 8 in a game that also could be the GOTW.
The week's top star was Jonathan Quick, who stoned the Caps many times on Thursday in a 5-4 Kings' win.
Also, the Caps-Pens game on Feb. 22 will now start at 12:30 and be NBC's game of the week. The Caps won the teams' two previous meetings this season, both in Pittsburgh. The teams will meet again March 8 in a game that also could be the GOTW.
February 7, 2009
Cat Scratch Fever: Caps 3, Panthers 1
Don't look now, but Mike Green (19) has but one fewer goal than Alex Semin (20). Greener scored two tonight (including an amazing empty-netter from practically his own goal-line) in a 3-1 victory over the Florida Panthers in the teams' second meeting (of six) this season. Eric Fehr scored the other one for the Caps -- with his coming just 33 seconds into the game.
Green already has eclipsed his career high (18) he set last season and is on pace for 26 tallies this season -- which would clearly make him a favorite for the Norris Trophy.
"It's really an important win, because when you have to go on the road for three and if you lost two, you don't want things to spiral," Coach Bruce Boudreau said after the game. "And the last thing we wanted to do was to give Florida any life. It was good for us to win this game."
Note: A major thank you to D.C. Pro Sports Report for their kind words in their uber-review of Caps blogs. I've added them to my link list at the right.
Green already has eclipsed his career high (18) he set last season and is on pace for 26 tallies this season -- which would clearly make him a favorite for the Norris Trophy.
"It's really an important win, because when you have to go on the road for three and if you lost two, you don't want things to spiral," Coach Bruce Boudreau said after the game. "And the last thing we wanted to do was to give Florida any life. It was good for us to win this game."
Note: A major thank you to D.C. Pro Sports Report for their kind words in their uber-review of Caps blogs. I've added them to my link list at the right.
February 6, 2009
Returning to Divisional Play
The Caps have played 53 games (33-16-4) so far this season -- but only eight (5-3) against the Southeast Division. That means that 16 of their final 29 games will be interdivisional -- starting with tomorrow's battle with the Florida Panthers, the only Eastern Conference team to defeat the Caps in regulation at Verizon Center this season.
Since the teams' only meeting of the season (a 5-3 Panthers' win on Dec. 2), the Panthers seemingly have improved and are flip-flopping with the Carolina Hurricanes for second place in the division and eighth in the conference. But, for the most part, the team really hasn't changed much in that they've given the Caps problems for the last several seasons.
Karl Alzner's back with the big club after his recall today and that definitely is good news. The Caps also claimed defenseman Staffan Kronwall off waivers from the Toronto Maple Leafs
"Our pro scouts see some upside in this player," GMGM said. "And as you know, we've been tight on the salary cap all year, and because this is re-entry waivers, it's an inexpensive way to add to your organization."
Since the teams' only meeting of the season (a 5-3 Panthers' win on Dec. 2), the Panthers seemingly have improved and are flip-flopping with the Carolina Hurricanes for second place in the division and eighth in the conference. But, for the most part, the team really hasn't changed much in that they've given the Caps problems for the last several seasons.
Karl Alzner's back with the big club after his recall today and that definitely is good news. The Caps also claimed defenseman Staffan Kronwall off waivers from the Toronto Maple Leafs
"Our pro scouts see some upside in this player," GMGM said. "And as you know, we've been tight on the salary cap all year, and because this is re-entry waivers, it's an inexpensive way to add to your organization."
February 5, 2009
Caps-Kings Postgame Thoughts
The Caps laid an egg tonight, plain and simple. Yes, they almost tied it in a furious third, but this was not the kind of effort you expect from one of the top-five teams in the league.
"The first two periods were as bad as we've played all year. They've got good speed, and they were coming up the middle well. Our guys were all over the place," Coach Bruce Boudreau said after the game. "We weren't playing anywhere near what we're supposed to be doing. That's the frustrating part of the game."
The Caps tied a season-high for penalties in a game with nine. It also ties a season-high for total penalties in a game with 16. The red, white and blue also recorded 45 shots on goal, tying their third-highest total of the season. They are 3-4-0 when recording 40 or more shots.
"The first period wasn't pretty, but the second period was downright ugly," Boudreau added. "After big games, you have a letdown, and hopefully, it's a one-time thing and we'll get back to where we're supposed to be. We certainly didn't play like the team that's played the three or four previous games."
Meanwhile, Brent Johnson will be having hip surgery and will be out for a while. No word on whether Michal Neuvirth will remain with the big club or if Simeon Varlamov will return (or something else will go down).
"The first two periods were as bad as we've played all year. They've got good speed, and they were coming up the middle well. Our guys were all over the place," Coach Bruce Boudreau said after the game. "We weren't playing anywhere near what we're supposed to be doing. That's the frustrating part of the game."
The Caps tied a season-high for penalties in a game with nine. It also ties a season-high for total penalties in a game with 16. The red, white and blue also recorded 45 shots on goal, tying their third-highest total of the season. They are 3-4-0 when recording 40 or more shots.
"The first period wasn't pretty, but the second period was downright ugly," Boudreau added. "After big games, you have a letdown, and hopefully, it's a one-time thing and we'll get back to where we're supposed to be. We certainly didn't play like the team that's played the three or four previous games."
Meanwhile, Brent Johnson will be having hip surgery and will be out for a while. No word on whether Michal Neuvirth will remain with the big club or if Simeon Varlamov will return (or something else will go down).
Royal Rumble: Caps-Kings Live
The Caps are back at Verizon Center for two, starting with tonight's rare visit by the Los Angeles Kings.
First Period
The home team didn't waste any time striking first. Practically off the opening face-off, the Caps got the puck behind the L.A. net, with Brooks Laich grabbing the biscuit and passing it to a wide-open Alex Semin cutting in the slot for a 1-0 lead.
From there, though, it wasn't as pretty as the Caps took three penalties in a row, which led to the Kings taking the lead. On a five-on-three, Anze Kopitar gathered the puck at the face-off circle and beat Jose Theodore, who had no shot because Jeff Schultz screened him. This is a disturbing trend on the PK lately. The Caps' defenders trying to clear the front of the net end up screening the goalie instead of making it better. This has to be changed.
Overall, the Caps looked pretty sloppy and disorganized. They need to increase the intensity in the second period.
Weirdest promotional announcement: "Star Spangled Sing-Off" on Feb. 17 for a chance to sing the national anthem at the March 3 game. Ugh.
After one: Caps 1, Kings 1
Second Period
The Kings started to separate themselves right away. Kopitar split the defense with a nifty move and went top shelf to beat Theodore. Not even a minute later, with the Caps on a power play, the Kings got another golden shorthanded opportunity and took advantage. Theodore shouldn't corral the rebound off a Alexander Frolov shot and Michal Handzus poked it in for a 4-2 Kings' lead.
On the same power play, Theodore pushed it ahead to Nicklas Backstrom, who is one of the Caps' lone bright spots tonight, and threaded it to a cutting Mike Green -- who knocked in his 17th goal of the season (he had 18 all of last year).
However, the Kings got a breakaway when John Erskine couldn't keep the puck in the offensive zone and cashed in when Patrick O'Sullivan got behind the Caps' (lackluster) defense to restore the Kings' two-goal advantage.
The Caps, thankfully, killed off a 1:04 two-man disadvantage to keep the game status quo. During that power play, Laich went straight to the locker room after blocking a shot and could barely walk. Let's hope it's not serious.
Matt Bradley tried taking out his team's frustrations on the Kings' Matt Greene, as the two got five for fighting at 14:14.
An uneventful four-on-four followed, but the Caps earned a power play in the period's weighning seconds. David Steckel and Donald Brasher put some great pressure and earned a double-minor on Jack Johnson. However, Stecks got a bogus roughing minor. The Caps didn't strike but will have 1:17 of carryover time.
After two: Kings 4, Caps 2
Third Period
First the good news: Laich is OK and back to his normal self after the scare at the end of the second period.
The Caps certainly turned up the intensity in the third period, starting with the motivational video that the "game isn't over until we say it is" although it didn't produce any goals. Semin had some golden opportunities but didn't shoot quickly enough. Ovechkin stepped up his game and the rest of the team followed -- especially reunited linemates Semin and Backstrom.
There was about a five-minute stretch of uninterrupted play at the end of which it was the time to (say it with me now) "unleash the fury!" And, without delay, Ovechkin got his 200th career goal -- and never at a bigger time.
Ovie intercepted a centering pass, after some decent mucking in the corner by Semin (that is not a typo) -- making him the fifth fastest to 200 in NHL history (trailing only Wayne Gretzky, Mike Bossy, Mario Lemieux and Brett Hull). Backstrom was huge on the play too, winning the face-off and keeping the pressure on the Kings. It's the 37th of the year for the reigning MVP. It also gave the Caps the shots-on-goal advantage in the game for the first time in a long time.
But the Caps couldn't stay out of the penalty box (John Erskine for hooking at 12:23), possibly throwing away the momentum they earned by their strong early play in the period. The Caps killed it off with little threat from L.A.
Fedorov was also on defense for much of the final stanza. The Caps kept the pressure on the Kings after killing the shorthanded situation and had some really good opportunities to tie the score but couldn't crack goalie Jonathan Quick (who is playing similar to his surname).
With 2:26 left, a very disturbing dance cam preceeded the Kings putting the game away on yet another defensive breakdown. TEh play started with good work in the corner by Kyle Calder, who found Brown in front of the net. Brown was stoned by Theodore, but Calder put the rebound into the Caps' net to ice the game at 18:27.
The Caps took a timeout with 1:14 left and pulled Theo in the hopes of mounting a late miracle comeback. The Caps did make it interesting seconds later with Green's 18th of the year off a wicked slapper from the point that tied his total from last year.
After the ensuing face-off, Theo headed back to the bench and the Caps turned up the pressure (again) and tried digging out from the huge hole they frankly have only themselves to blame for entering. A FURIOUS rally almost got the Caps even but it was not to be tonight.
At one point, the fans used the break to start the "ref you suck" chant but this loss is not the refs' fault nor that of Theodore. The Caps just did not show up to play today -- something that is too frequent against Western Conference opponents. They clearly turned it up in the third period, evidenced by the 22-5 shots-on-goal advantage in the final stanza, but Quick played fantastically and the Caps didn't play up to snuff in the first 40 minutes.
The Caps (hark!) play a division opponent, Florida, on Saturday night.
Tonight's attendance: 18,277
Final: Kings 5, Caps 4
UPDATE: The Caps' final goal was later credited to Laich instead of Green.
First Period
The home team didn't waste any time striking first. Practically off the opening face-off, the Caps got the puck behind the L.A. net, with Brooks Laich grabbing the biscuit and passing it to a wide-open Alex Semin cutting in the slot for a 1-0 lead.
From there, though, it wasn't as pretty as the Caps took three penalties in a row, which led to the Kings taking the lead. On a five-on-three, Anze Kopitar gathered the puck at the face-off circle and beat Jose Theodore, who had no shot because Jeff Schultz screened him. This is a disturbing trend on the PK lately. The Caps' defenders trying to clear the front of the net end up screening the goalie instead of making it better. This has to be changed.
Overall, the Caps looked pretty sloppy and disorganized. They need to increase the intensity in the second period.
Weirdest promotional announcement: "Star Spangled Sing-Off" on Feb. 17 for a chance to sing the national anthem at the March 3 game. Ugh.
After one: Caps 1, Kings 1
Second Period
The Kings started to separate themselves right away. Kopitar split the defense with a nifty move and went top shelf to beat Theodore. Not even a minute later, with the Caps on a power play, the Kings got another golden shorthanded opportunity and took advantage. Theodore shouldn't corral the rebound off a Alexander Frolov shot and Michal Handzus poked it in for a 4-2 Kings' lead.
On the same power play, Theodore pushed it ahead to Nicklas Backstrom, who is one of the Caps' lone bright spots tonight, and threaded it to a cutting Mike Green -- who knocked in his 17th goal of the season (he had 18 all of last year).
However, the Kings got a breakaway when John Erskine couldn't keep the puck in the offensive zone and cashed in when Patrick O'Sullivan got behind the Caps' (lackluster) defense to restore the Kings' two-goal advantage.
The Caps, thankfully, killed off a 1:04 two-man disadvantage to keep the game status quo. During that power play, Laich went straight to the locker room after blocking a shot and could barely walk. Let's hope it's not serious.
Matt Bradley tried taking out his team's frustrations on the Kings' Matt Greene, as the two got five for fighting at 14:14.
An uneventful four-on-four followed, but the Caps earned a power play in the period's weighning seconds. David Steckel and Donald Brasher put some great pressure and earned a double-minor on Jack Johnson. However, Stecks got a bogus roughing minor. The Caps didn't strike but will have 1:17 of carryover time.
After two: Kings 4, Caps 2
Third Period
First the good news: Laich is OK and back to his normal self after the scare at the end of the second period.
The Caps certainly turned up the intensity in the third period, starting with the motivational video that the "game isn't over until we say it is" although it didn't produce any goals. Semin had some golden opportunities but didn't shoot quickly enough. Ovechkin stepped up his game and the rest of the team followed -- especially reunited linemates Semin and Backstrom.
There was about a five-minute stretch of uninterrupted play at the end of which it was the time to (say it with me now) "unleash the fury!" And, without delay, Ovechkin got his 200th career goal -- and never at a bigger time.
Ovie intercepted a centering pass, after some decent mucking in the corner by Semin (that is not a typo) -- making him the fifth fastest to 200 in NHL history (trailing only Wayne Gretzky, Mike Bossy, Mario Lemieux and Brett Hull). Backstrom was huge on the play too, winning the face-off and keeping the pressure on the Kings. It's the 37th of the year for the reigning MVP. It also gave the Caps the shots-on-goal advantage in the game for the first time in a long time.
But the Caps couldn't stay out of the penalty box (John Erskine for hooking at 12:23), possibly throwing away the momentum they earned by their strong early play in the period. The Caps killed it off with little threat from L.A.
Fedorov was also on defense for much of the final stanza. The Caps kept the pressure on the Kings after killing the shorthanded situation and had some really good opportunities to tie the score but couldn't crack goalie Jonathan Quick (who is playing similar to his surname).
With 2:26 left, a very disturbing dance cam preceeded the Kings putting the game away on yet another defensive breakdown. TEh play started with good work in the corner by Kyle Calder, who found Brown in front of the net. Brown was stoned by Theodore, but Calder put the rebound into the Caps' net to ice the game at 18:27.
The Caps took a timeout with 1:14 left and pulled Theo in the hopes of mounting a late miracle comeback. The Caps did make it interesting seconds later with Green's 18th of the year off a wicked slapper from the point that tied his total from last year.
After the ensuing face-off, Theo headed back to the bench and the Caps turned up the pressure (again) and tried digging out from the huge hole they frankly have only themselves to blame for entering. A FURIOUS rally almost got the Caps even but it was not to be tonight.
At one point, the fans used the break to start the "ref you suck" chant but this loss is not the refs' fault nor that of Theodore. The Caps just did not show up to play today -- something that is too frequent against Western Conference opponents. They clearly turned it up in the third period, evidenced by the 22-5 shots-on-goal advantage in the final stanza, but Quick played fantastically and the Caps didn't play up to snuff in the first 40 minutes.
The Caps (hark!) play a division opponent, Florida, on Saturday night.
Tonight's attendance: 18,277
Final: Kings 5, Caps 4
UPDATE: The Caps' final goal was later credited to Laich instead of Green.
February 4, 2009
Caps Continue Statements
One game after slamming the hapless Senators, 7-4, the Caps continued their roll with an impressive 5-2 victory in New Jersey. The hero? Michael Nylander, who scored twice and seems rejuvenated lately.
"The last few games he's picked it up," Coach Boudreau said after the game. "And that's good. If we can get Michael playing the way he's used to playing, it makes us a dangerous team offensively."
Another redemption candidate is Jose Theodore, who made 32 saves and is 11-3-1 with a 2.21 GAA and a .920 save percentage in his last 15 starts.
The bad news is that the penalty kill continues to struggle and tied a dubious team record by allowing a power-play goal for the 12th consecutive game. The last time they did so was in 1993.
Alex Ovechkin only got one shot on goal, but registered two assists and is sure to come out with abandon on Thursday when the Caps host the L.A. Kings (I'll be there with live coverage).
As for the mercurial Alex Semin, here's how J.P. analyzed his performance: "he's lost out there right now. He doesn't know who his center is, he's no longer killing penalties, and he's getting less power play time than Tomas Fleischmann. You'd think he'd get the message, but then you see him doing between-the-legs drop passes and Superman dives at the puck in the dying minutes of a close game. Such is life with the enigma that is Sasha Semin, I suppose."
Note: Happy 48th birthday to hockey great Denis Savard, who hasn't had the best luck recently.
"The last few games he's picked it up," Coach Boudreau said after the game. "And that's good. If we can get Michael playing the way he's used to playing, it makes us a dangerous team offensively."
Another redemption candidate is Jose Theodore, who made 32 saves and is 11-3-1 with a 2.21 GAA and a .920 save percentage in his last 15 starts.
The bad news is that the penalty kill continues to struggle and tied a dubious team record by allowing a power-play goal for the 12th consecutive game. The last time they did so was in 1993.
Alex Ovechkin only got one shot on goal, but registered two assists and is sure to come out with abandon on Thursday when the Caps host the L.A. Kings (I'll be there with live coverage).
As for the mercurial Alex Semin, here's how J.P. analyzed his performance: "he's lost out there right now. He doesn't know who his center is, he's no longer killing penalties, and he's getting less power play time than Tomas Fleischmann. You'd think he'd get the message, but then you see him doing between-the-legs drop passes and Superman dives at the puck in the dying minutes of a close game. Such is life with the enigma that is Sasha Semin, I suppose."
Note: Happy 48th birthday to hockey great Denis Savard, who hasn't had the best luck recently.
February 3, 2009
Caps Vist the Rockin' Devils
The Caps finish up their season series with the New Jersey Devils tonight (7 p.m., Versus) in a battle of the second- and third-seeded teams in the Eastern Conference. It's also the third straight Tuesday the Caps have been featured on Versus (all on the road) and have lost both previous games.
The Caps are 1-0-2 against the Devils this season, but it has been nearly three months since the last meeting (back-to-back, Nov. 14-15). Since then, the teams have posted nearly identical records (Caps: 22-11-1; Devils: 24-8-1). A win tonight would give the Caps wins in back-to-back season series with the Devils for the first time since 1990-91 (4-3-0) and 1991-92 (5-2-0).
Tonight's game features two of the hottest players in the league: Alex Ovechkin (five goals in his last two games) and Jaime Langenbrunner (14 goals, 27 assists, plus-19), who was honored yesterday as the NHL player of the week and month.
Ovechkin, who has a shot to score his 200th career goal tonight, has scored 32 more goals than any other player since he entered the league in 2005-06. Should he tap the twine, Ovie would become just the fourth player in NHL history to score 200 goals in his first four years in the league.
Wayne Gretzky and Mike Bossy (241) scored the most goals over their first four years in league, while Mario Lemieux (215) is next. Ovechkin's got a great shot to pass the former non-flying bird before the season concludes.
Jose Theodore is expected to start tonight, and with Brent Johnson day-to-day with an undisclosed injury, Michal Neuvirth has been recalled from Hershey.
Meanwhile, with Chris Clark on the shelf, fan favorite Eric Fehr will be getting more ice time.
"There's a chance he's not going to be in every night; we still have 13 forwards," Boudreau said today. "But you give guys chances and it's up to them to seize the moment, take it and run with it. And not be known as a guy who is a good player and who has potential. I hope he seizes the moment and proves, like Tomas Fleischmann did, that he's a solid NHL player."
The Caps are 1-0-2 against the Devils this season, but it has been nearly three months since the last meeting (back-to-back, Nov. 14-15). Since then, the teams have posted nearly identical records (Caps: 22-11-1; Devils: 24-8-1). A win tonight would give the Caps wins in back-to-back season series with the Devils for the first time since 1990-91 (4-3-0) and 1991-92 (5-2-0).
Tonight's game features two of the hottest players in the league: Alex Ovechkin (five goals in his last two games) and Jaime Langenbrunner (14 goals, 27 assists, plus-19), who was honored yesterday as the NHL player of the week and month.
Ovechkin, who has a shot to score his 200th career goal tonight, has scored 32 more goals than any other player since he entered the league in 2005-06. Should he tap the twine, Ovie would become just the fourth player in NHL history to score 200 goals in his first four years in the league.
Wayne Gretzky and Mike Bossy (241) scored the most goals over their first four years in league, while Mario Lemieux (215) is next. Ovechkin's got a great shot to pass the former non-flying bird before the season concludes.
Jose Theodore is expected to start tonight, and with Brent Johnson day-to-day with an undisclosed injury, Michal Neuvirth has been recalled from Hershey.
Meanwhile, with Chris Clark on the shelf, fan favorite Eric Fehr will be getting more ice time.
"There's a chance he's not going to be in every night; we still have 13 forwards," Boudreau said today. "But you give guys chances and it's up to them to seize the moment, take it and run with it. And not be known as a guy who is a good player and who has potential. I hope he seizes the moment and proves, like Tomas Fleischmann did, that he's a solid NHL player."
Semin's Mighty Fall
A lot of attention has been thrown towards Alex Semin lately and it's not all good. At the beginning of the season, let's remember, Semin nearly ditched his "other Alex" moniker and was getting lots of praise (including being recognized as the NHL's first star of the week) as Alex Ovechkin started slowly. The two Alexes joined Nicklas Backstrom on a top line that could have been one of the league's best.
But, over the last week (and maybe longer), Semin has been the scapegoat for the team's penalty-filled ways, taking seven minor penalties in the past eight games, including one in each of the past five. Last season, he led all Capitals' forwards in minor penalties with 27 in 63 games. And he's now playing on the third line with Brooks Laich and Michael Nylander, with whom Semin didn't click last season.
"We've been harping on it and harping on it and harping on it, about taking fewer penalties," Coach Bruce Boudreau said yesterday. "It's something we have to cut down, obviously."
Semin has the third-most penalty minutes on the club (45), behind Ovechkin (58) and Donald Brashear (94). He's also tops on the team (and tied for ninth in the league) in plus/minus (plus-23) and second in goals (19). His PIMs are tied for 124th in the league and are 18 fewer than the total accrued by his good friend Sidney Crosby.
Could there be more to the story? Recently, many people have gone out of their way to defend Semin's actions -- especially his good friend.
"I talked to [Semin] on the bench," Ovechkin said after Sunday's 7-4 win over the Ottawa Senators. "I said sometimes the puck doesn't go in, but that it's coming. It's coming. Then the next shift he has a breakaway and scores a beautiful goal. I'm glad for him... He plays great for us. Sometimes he has mistakes. Everybody have mistakes."
"Alex has that kind of skill," Boudreau reflected about Semin's goal against the Sens. "Hopefully, that will jump start him a little bit."
Semin is in the first year of a two-year deal, which pays him $4.2 million this season and $5 million in 2009-10. But he's been the subject of trade rumors, he still doesn't talk to the media all that often (and hardly ever in English) and his contract is sure to be discussed this off-season as the team tries to find creative ways to add veterans and make room for up-and-coming youngsters like Karl Alzner, Oskar Osala and Simeon Varlamov. And let's not forget those contracts that are expiring that need to be addressed.
This debate likely will continue until a concrete solution has been announced. It might end with the Caps finally losing patience with the enigmatic Semin (in which case they might trade him) or deciding that his skill outweighs the extra baggage (and signing him to an extension).
But, over the last week (and maybe longer), Semin has been the scapegoat for the team's penalty-filled ways, taking seven minor penalties in the past eight games, including one in each of the past five. Last season, he led all Capitals' forwards in minor penalties with 27 in 63 games. And he's now playing on the third line with Brooks Laich and Michael Nylander, with whom Semin didn't click last season.
"We've been harping on it and harping on it and harping on it, about taking fewer penalties," Coach Bruce Boudreau said yesterday. "It's something we have to cut down, obviously."
Semin has the third-most penalty minutes on the club (45), behind Ovechkin (58) and Donald Brashear (94). He's also tops on the team (and tied for ninth in the league) in plus/minus (plus-23) and second in goals (19). His PIMs are tied for 124th in the league and are 18 fewer than the total accrued by his good friend Sidney Crosby.
Could there be more to the story? Recently, many people have gone out of their way to defend Semin's actions -- especially his good friend.
"I talked to [Semin] on the bench," Ovechkin said after Sunday's 7-4 win over the Ottawa Senators. "I said sometimes the puck doesn't go in, but that it's coming. It's coming. Then the next shift he has a breakaway and scores a beautiful goal. I'm glad for him... He plays great for us. Sometimes he has mistakes. Everybody have mistakes."
"Alex has that kind of skill," Boudreau reflected about Semin's goal against the Sens. "Hopefully, that will jump start him a little bit."
Semin is in the first year of a two-year deal, which pays him $4.2 million this season and $5 million in 2009-10. But he's been the subject of trade rumors, he still doesn't talk to the media all that often (and hardly ever in English) and his contract is sure to be discussed this off-season as the team tries to find creative ways to add veterans and make room for up-and-coming youngsters like Karl Alzner, Oskar Osala and Simeon Varlamov. And let's not forget those contracts that are expiring that need to be addressed.
This debate likely will continue until a concrete solution has been announced. It might end with the Caps finally losing patience with the enigmatic Semin (in which case they might trade him) or deciding that his skill outweighs the extra baggage (and signing him to an extension).
February 2, 2009
Captain Ovechkin? (Take Two)
On the heels of The Hockey News' cover with Alex Ovechkin wearing the captain's "C" and today's announcement that Chris Clark is out for the year comes the picture above from the front page of the Caps' Web site.
Conspiracy theorists unite.
(s/t The Red Skate)
Green Nets NHL's Weekly Third Star
Mike Green added himself to the growing list of Caps being honored by the NHL on a weekly basis. Green has been named the NHL's third star and is the fifth Cap to be named stars of the week/month this season (joining Nicklas Backstrom, Brent Johnson, Alex Ovechkin and Alexander Semin).
It's the first time Green was one of the NHL's weekly stars. Green registered seven points (three goals, four assists) in three games last week. In 38 games this season, Green is tied for the league lead among blueliners with 40 points and is tops in goals with 15.
It's the first time Green was one of the NHL's weekly stars. Green registered seven points (three goals, four assists) in three games last week. In 38 games this season, Green is tied for the league lead among blueliners with 40 points and is tops in goals with 15.
Clark Done for Season
Word leaked yesterday that a decision on Chris Clark was coming soon and today, we have the answer: the Caps' captain will be out for the rest of the year to have surgery on his wrist. Coach Bruce Boudreau said Clark will remain captain during his absence, meaning nobody else will don the "C" for the rest of the season.
The fact that the subject even came up might speak volumes, but with little doubt the Caps are Alex Ovechkin's team, it might also be reinforcing what's already obvious: Ovie will be captain before too long (something Clark has acknowledged himself).
Clark, who is signed through the 2010-11 season, makes $2.75 million this year. With his salary off the books (at least in terms of the salary cap) for the rest of the season, it's expected that Karl Alzner will be back with the big club -- perhaps in time for tomorrow's game with the Devils.
Meanwhile, yesterday's opponent, the Ottawa Senators, fired Craig Hartsburg today and promoted Cory Clouston to lead the squad. Hartsburg was 17-23-8 behind the Senators bench. Clouston, 38, led the AHL's Binghamton Senators for a season-and-a-half and was 59-48-12-8 behind that bench. It's the second consecutive season the Sens have fired their coach mid-season.
GM Brian Murray indicated that he'll use the next month to make some "big decisions" before the March 4 deadline. With some pretty big names making pretty big salaries (Dany Heatley and Jason Spezza make a combined $18 million this season and both are signed through at least 2013-14), anything is possible. However, pending UFAs include Chris Neil, Dean McAmmond and Filip Kuba.
This might explain Murray's foul mood yesterday. Talk about a franchise in disarray.
The fact that the subject even came up might speak volumes, but with little doubt the Caps are Alex Ovechkin's team, it might also be reinforcing what's already obvious: Ovie will be captain before too long (something Clark has acknowledged himself).
Clark, who is signed through the 2010-11 season, makes $2.75 million this year. With his salary off the books (at least in terms of the salary cap) for the rest of the season, it's expected that Karl Alzner will be back with the big club -- perhaps in time for tomorrow's game with the Devils.
Meanwhile, yesterday's opponent, the Ottawa Senators, fired Craig Hartsburg today and promoted Cory Clouston to lead the squad. Hartsburg was 17-23-8 behind the Senators bench. Clouston, 38, led the AHL's Binghamton Senators for a season-and-a-half and was 59-48-12-8 behind that bench. It's the second consecutive season the Sens have fired their coach mid-season.
GM Brian Murray indicated that he'll use the next month to make some "big decisions" before the March 4 deadline. With some pretty big names making pretty big salaries (Dany Heatley and Jason Spezza make a combined $18 million this season and both are signed through at least 2013-14), anything is possible. However, pending UFAs include Chris Neil, Dean McAmmond and Filip Kuba.
This might explain Murray's foul mood yesterday. Talk about a franchise in disarray.
It's Ovechkin Time
Alex Ovechkin recorded his seventh career hat trick during the Caps' 7-4 win yesterday. It is his second of the season; the last was Nov. 26 vs. Atlanta. Overall, Ovechkin has posted 57 points in his last 41 games (33 goals, 24 assists) and has opened up a four-goal bulge over Jeff Carter for the league lead (with four more games played). He's also one goal away from 200 for his career and fourth on the Caps' all-time list.
"I'm sure that's going to be a minuscule milestone in his career because he's going to get 300, 400, 500 and maybe more," Coach Bruce Boudreau said after the game. "If I know Alex, he's not going to be too excited about that."
Ottawa Head Coach Craig Hartsburg took notice of Ovechkin's super effort.
"He's the star of the league," Hartsburg said. "People pay a lot of money to come watch him play and he performs every night. He's certainly worth the price of admission; not for the other team, he isn't, but certainly for the fans."
Even with the flurry of scoring, the Caps still weren't perfect.
"They got two power plays right off the bat [in the third period] and guys were sitting for a little bit and then they scored. It's hard to keep it going when you've got a team down, 6-2. You don't usually win, 10-2," Boudreau said. "A let-up is almost a given when you've got a big lead because you're sitting back a little bit more and you're not pressing."
"I'm sure that's going to be a minuscule milestone in his career because he's going to get 300, 400, 500 and maybe more," Coach Bruce Boudreau said after the game. "If I know Alex, he's not going to be too excited about that."
Ottawa Head Coach Craig Hartsburg took notice of Ovechkin's super effort.
"He's the star of the league," Hartsburg said. "People pay a lot of money to come watch him play and he performs every night. He's certainly worth the price of admission; not for the other team, he isn't, but certainly for the fans."
Even with the flurry of scoring, the Caps still weren't perfect.
"They got two power plays right off the bat [in the third period] and guys were sitting for a little bit and then they scored. It's hard to keep it going when you've got a team down, 6-2. You don't usually win, 10-2," Boudreau said. "A let-up is almost a given when you've got a big lead because you're sitting back a little bit more and you're not pressing."
February 1, 2009
Super Bowl Sunday: Caps-Sens Live
Welcome to Verizon Center and a Super Bowl Sunday match-up between the Ottawa Senators and the Caps. The line-ups are the same as the third period of yesterday's game, meaning Alex Semin is on the third line. Also, Chris Clark is a healthy scratch (again) and David Steckel is scratched today while Boyd Gordon is back on the ice.
First Period
The Caps came out with a vengence and put together an amazing opening minute. But they didn't keep up the franetic pace for too long and the Sens struck first. Daniel Alfredsson unleashed a wicked wrister from the top of the faceoff circle (after getting a pass from Dany Heatley) past a screened Brent Johnson to give the visitors a 1-0 lead. Shaone Morrisonn was the one who provided the screen, unfortunately.
The Caps charged ahead, though, thanks to some power-play prowess. Three seconds after Heatley went to the box for hooking, Mike Green (15) pounded one from the point after Nicklas Backstrom won the face-off cleanly.
And then, less than a minute later with Jarkko Ruutu in the box for hooking, fans got a virtual replay. Sergei Fedorov won the face-off, passed it back to Green, whipped it over to a wide-open Alex Ovechkin, who unleashed a sensational slapshot for his 34th goal of the year.
The Caps got another power play at 17:33, but didn't do anything with it.
After one: Caps 2, Sens 1.
Second Period
The Caps continued thier domination and didn't take long to get on the board. Eric Fehr scored his fourth of the season after a beautiful pass from Schultz and propeled himself into the net with the puck in a goal that epitomized his grinder mentality.
Less than two minutes later, Ovechkin broke free along the boards and whipped a hallitzer past Elliott to give the Caps a 4-1 lead. That was the end of Elliott's night.
The penalty mongering came into the effect after that, but thankfully for the Caps, it was in their favor. On the ensuing four-on-four, though, Alfredsson got his second on the game on a great slapper from a way-too-open spot at the point.
However, it was all Caps after that. Green chipped a beautiful arial pass to Alex Semin, who scored on a scintillating forehand-backhand combination on a breakaway, his 19th of the year.
Then Ovechkin completed the hat trick about two minutes later with another wicked wrister on a semi-breakaway with a loose pane of glass nearby. With hats pouring onto the ice, the crew fixed the glass, which also came unglued later in the period as well. It was the 199th goal of Ovie's career, his seventh hat trick, and elicited very loud "MVP" chants.
Amazing as it seems, the Sens are outshooting the Caps (barely), but it's not close on the scoreboard.
After two: Caps 6, Sens 2.
Third Period
The final stanza didn't include as much energy from the Caps as would be expected. In fact, they took too many penalties and seem to just coast through as the Sens scored twice.
The Sens struck at 7:46 on a broken play when Antoine Vermette scored after John Erskine and Milan Jurcina tried to clear and Erskine ended up screening Johnson.
Then, after yet another Caps penalty (they had four in the stanza), Heatley stole the puck from Tom Poti in front of the Caps' net and poked it past Johnson to narrow it down to a 6-4 Caps lead.
Ovechkin had two golden chances to get his 200th but just missed.
The Sens pulled their goalie with about two minutes left, with Ovechkin on the ice. And Backstrom iced it into the empty net.
Final: Caps 7, Sens 4.
First Period
The Caps came out with a vengence and put together an amazing opening minute. But they didn't keep up the franetic pace for too long and the Sens struck first. Daniel Alfredsson unleashed a wicked wrister from the top of the faceoff circle (after getting a pass from Dany Heatley) past a screened Brent Johnson to give the visitors a 1-0 lead. Shaone Morrisonn was the one who provided the screen, unfortunately.
The Caps charged ahead, though, thanks to some power-play prowess. Three seconds after Heatley went to the box for hooking, Mike Green (15) pounded one from the point after Nicklas Backstrom won the face-off cleanly.
And then, less than a minute later with Jarkko Ruutu in the box for hooking, fans got a virtual replay. Sergei Fedorov won the face-off, passed it back to Green, whipped it over to a wide-open Alex Ovechkin, who unleashed a sensational slapshot for his 34th goal of the year.
The Caps got another power play at 17:33, but didn't do anything with it.
After one: Caps 2, Sens 1.
Second Period
The Caps continued thier domination and didn't take long to get on the board. Eric Fehr scored his fourth of the season after a beautiful pass from Schultz and propeled himself into the net with the puck in a goal that epitomized his grinder mentality.
Less than two minutes later, Ovechkin broke free along the boards and whipped a hallitzer past Elliott to give the Caps a 4-1 lead. That was the end of Elliott's night.
The penalty mongering came into the effect after that, but thankfully for the Caps, it was in their favor. On the ensuing four-on-four, though, Alfredsson got his second on the game on a great slapper from a way-too-open spot at the point.
However, it was all Caps after that. Green chipped a beautiful arial pass to Alex Semin, who scored on a scintillating forehand-backhand combination on a breakaway, his 19th of the year.
Then Ovechkin completed the hat trick about two minutes later with another wicked wrister on a semi-breakaway with a loose pane of glass nearby. With hats pouring onto the ice, the crew fixed the glass, which also came unglued later in the period as well. It was the 199th goal of Ovie's career, his seventh hat trick, and elicited very loud "MVP" chants.
Amazing as it seems, the Sens are outshooting the Caps (barely), but it's not close on the scoreboard.
After two: Caps 6, Sens 2.
Third Period
The final stanza didn't include as much energy from the Caps as would be expected. In fact, they took too many penalties and seem to just coast through as the Sens scored twice.
The Sens struck at 7:46 on a broken play when Antoine Vermette scored after John Erskine and Milan Jurcina tried to clear and Erskine ended up screening Johnson.
Then, after yet another Caps penalty (they had four in the stanza), Heatley stole the puck from Tom Poti in front of the Caps' net and poked it past Johnson to narrow it down to a 6-4 Caps lead.
Ovechkin had two golden chances to get his 200th but just missed.
The Sens pulled their goalie with about two minutes left, with Ovechkin on the ice. And Backstrom iced it into the empty net.
Final: Caps 7, Sens 4.
Statement Weekend
The Caps clearly made a statement yesterday with a 4-2 win over the Detroit Red Wings. Alex Ovechkin was his normal wonderful self in the third period with two awesome goals and lots of aggressive play. Ovie now boasts 196 career goals, meaning he could hit the magical 200 goal total this week (or today, if he really breaks out).
But the bigger statement is if, after such an emotional win, the Caps can beat the Ottawa Senators today in a rare stay-home back-to-back. Today, of course, is Super Bowl Sunday -- a day when the Caps traditionally play host and are 11-3-1.
The Sens beat the Caps right before the all-star break, 3-2 (OT), in a game when the Caps clearly were not at their best. The Caps need to show they're championship material by beating an inferior opponent. Today's game also wraps up the Washington-Ottawa series, the first of the Capitals' Eastern Conference season series to conclude. The Capitals need a win to claim the season series from the Senators (currently 1-1-1). The Caps swept the Sens last year, but hasn't won the season series in consecutive years since 1999-00 and 2000-01.
Meanwhile, the Caps remain the second-best home team in the league (20-3-1), trailing only San Jose, and are just three home wins shy of their total from last year. Ovechkin has averaged nearly a goal per game at home this season (20 goals in 24 games). The Capitals are 41-11-4 at home under head coach Bruce Boudreau.
Look for live coverage from Verizon Center for the 12:30 face-off.
But the bigger statement is if, after such an emotional win, the Caps can beat the Ottawa Senators today in a rare stay-home back-to-back. Today, of course, is Super Bowl Sunday -- a day when the Caps traditionally play host and are 11-3-1.
The Sens beat the Caps right before the all-star break, 3-2 (OT), in a game when the Caps clearly were not at their best. The Caps need to show they're championship material by beating an inferior opponent. Today's game also wraps up the Washington-Ottawa series, the first of the Capitals' Eastern Conference season series to conclude. The Capitals need a win to claim the season series from the Senators (currently 1-1-1). The Caps swept the Sens last year, but hasn't won the season series in consecutive years since 1999-00 and 2000-01.
Meanwhile, the Caps remain the second-best home team in the league (20-3-1), trailing only San Jose, and are just three home wins shy of their total from last year. Ovechkin has averaged nearly a goal per game at home this season (20 goals in 24 games). The Capitals are 41-11-4 at home under head coach Bruce Boudreau.
Look for live coverage from Verizon Center for the 12:30 face-off.
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