The newly-recalled Keith Aucoin is expected to play on the fourth line tomorrow with Matt Bradley and David Steckel for the Caps. Donald Brasher most likely will be out for the rest of the regular season.
As for the other lines, Eric Fehr is expected to be on the top trio again with Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom.
"I just think if Eric can do the job there, then we have a lot better balance [because] we can put a young guy there," Boudreau said after practice. "Eric is slowly coming up the grade.. If we can get that, then we're way ahead of the game."
Not only is Fehr's ascension a great story but he provides can park himself in front of the net, an element that's missing when Alex Semin skates on that line. Brooks Laich has done a great job of doing that all season but he rarely skates with Ovechkin at even strength. Fehr's also securing a long-term spot, which bodes well because he's a restricted free agent this off-season.
March 31, 2009
Unmasking Theo
Goalies take a lot of pride in their masks and Caps netminder Jose Theodore is no different. So when he unveiled a new red mask in January, everybody thought that he would start wearing it as soon as possible. As it turns out, the mask sits nicely in his locker with no debut in sight.
"It looks good, but I like the other one for now," Theodore told STC. "We'll see, you never know sometimes. But it's just there. Maybe I'll change my mind. I don't know. I have the options."
The "other one" to which he's referring is the blue mask he's been wearing most of the season. The two are very similar, but obviously the Caps take great pride in wearing red.
"We make sure I do something that relates with myself and the city," Theodore said of the design process. "With Washington and all of the history, it's pretty easy. A couple of big monuments, put it in there, and my personal touch and just let the artist do the work."
Theo has used that mantra during his stops in Montreal (winter hat optional) and Colorado, but has tweaked it along the way. No matter the mask, Theodore prefers the Eastern Conference.
"I feel really fresh and I have a lot of energy," he said. "The traveling is a lot easier in the East and there are a lot of teams I've played against for so long so I know them."
Theodore is rocking along at 29-16-5 with a 2.80 GAA, a .902 save percentage and two shutouts in 53 games (51 starts).
As for Cristobal Huet, the man Theo replaced? In just 39 games (38 starts), Huet is 19-14-4 with a 2.50 GAA, .910 save percentage and three shutouts for the Chicago Blackhawks (40-23-11, 93 points).
Looks like the Caps (and Theodore) made the right choice.
"It looks good, but I like the other one for now," Theodore told STC. "We'll see, you never know sometimes. But it's just there. Maybe I'll change my mind. I don't know. I have the options."
The "other one" to which he's referring is the blue mask he's been wearing most of the season. The two are very similar, but obviously the Caps take great pride in wearing red.
"We make sure I do something that relates with myself and the city," Theodore said of the design process. "With Washington and all of the history, it's pretty easy. A couple of big monuments, put it in there, and my personal touch and just let the artist do the work."
Theo has used that mantra during his stops in Montreal (winter hat optional) and Colorado, but has tweaked it along the way. No matter the mask, Theodore prefers the Eastern Conference.
"I feel really fresh and I have a lot of energy," he said. "The traveling is a lot easier in the East and there are a lot of teams I've played against for so long so I know them."
Theodore is rocking along at 29-16-5 with a 2.80 GAA, a .902 save percentage and two shutouts in 53 games (51 starts).
As for Cristobal Huet, the man Theo replaced? In just 39 games (38 starts), Huet is 19-14-4 with a 2.50 GAA, .910 save percentage and three shutouts for the Chicago Blackhawks (40-23-11, 93 points).
Looks like the Caps (and Theodore) made the right choice.
March 30, 2009
Evason Thrives Behind the Bench
The Caps enjoy a rare luxury on their bench by boasting an assistant coach that played for 13 years in the NHL. After being selected by the Caps in the fifth round (89th overall) of the 1982 Entry Draft, Dean Evason played 803 NHL games for the Caps, Hartford Whalers, San Jose Sharks, Dallas Stars and Calgary Flames. Overall, he recorded 139 goals and 233 assists.
Evason joined the Caps' staff on July 18, 2005 and remained behind the bench when Coach Bruce Boudreau took over for Glen Hanlon last November.
"Your biggest role is to be a buffer between the players and the coach," Evason told STC. "Fortunately, I got to play in the league so I'm able to know what they go through on a daily basis and how they feel in different situations. Hopefully, I can take that back to Bruce and let him know what the feeling of the team is on that day."
Evason's first foray into coaching came in 1999, when he served as an assistant with the Western Hockey League's Calgary Hitmen. He subsequently served as head coach of the WHL's Kamloops Blazers from 1999 to 2002 and the WHL's Vancouver Giants in 2003-04. His final coaching stint in the WHL came as co-coach (with Kelly Kisio) of the Hitmen in 2004-05.
"To have that experience to have run the bench, to put your practice plans together and all that kind of stuff," he said. "I think as an assistant coach you have to have to think on a daily basis as if you were a head coach. What would I do today? And then you get that in your head and then you come in and you talk to Bruce. He says this is what we want to do and then you support him and you assist him."
"We agree a lot as a coaching staff, but there are times when you have to disagree," he added. "I think it's good and it's healthy for the staff to disagree. We all have different opinions and then we work it out and, by the time we bring it to the players, we're all united in what we want to do."
Evason has seen the Caps' progression from right before his eyes. And there's no better way to measure it than through the size and fervor of the crowds at Verizon Center.
"When we first got here four years ago, [the crowds were] indifferent. Now, it's spectacular," he said. "The feeling when you come into our building or come into that tunnel, to see the sea of red and then the energy that the guys get from it. Our home record obviously this year tells it alone. We're so excited to play in front of our fans. It's a credit to the fans to have the ability to pick a team up when they're down. A lot of times the fans wait for the team to pick them up, but our crowd has the ability to pick us up at different moments throughout the year."
A native of Flin Flon, Manitoba, Evason is a member of the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame alongside such hockey legends as Scotty Bowman and William (Bill) Masterton.
"To get drafted by Washington was obviously a special thing. To have the opportunity to coach in the NHL is amazing in itself," he stated. "I don't forget how fortunate, how lucky I am to play here, to coach here. Definitely being a Washington Capital as a player and a coach is something that I take special pride in."
Evason joined the Caps' staff on July 18, 2005 and remained behind the bench when Coach Bruce Boudreau took over for Glen Hanlon last November.
"Your biggest role is to be a buffer between the players and the coach," Evason told STC. "Fortunately, I got to play in the league so I'm able to know what they go through on a daily basis and how they feel in different situations. Hopefully, I can take that back to Bruce and let him know what the feeling of the team is on that day."
Evason's first foray into coaching came in 1999, when he served as an assistant with the Western Hockey League's Calgary Hitmen. He subsequently served as head coach of the WHL's Kamloops Blazers from 1999 to 2002 and the WHL's Vancouver Giants in 2003-04. His final coaching stint in the WHL came as co-coach (with Kelly Kisio) of the Hitmen in 2004-05.
"To have that experience to have run the bench, to put your practice plans together and all that kind of stuff," he said. "I think as an assistant coach you have to have to think on a daily basis as if you were a head coach. What would I do today? And then you get that in your head and then you come in and you talk to Bruce. He says this is what we want to do and then you support him and you assist him."
"We agree a lot as a coaching staff, but there are times when you have to disagree," he added. "I think it's good and it's healthy for the staff to disagree. We all have different opinions and then we work it out and, by the time we bring it to the players, we're all united in what we want to do."
Evason has seen the Caps' progression from right before his eyes. And there's no better way to measure it than through the size and fervor of the crowds at Verizon Center.
"When we first got here four years ago, [the crowds were] indifferent. Now, it's spectacular," he said. "The feeling when you come into our building or come into that tunnel, to see the sea of red and then the energy that the guys get from it. Our home record obviously this year tells it alone. We're so excited to play in front of our fans. It's a credit to the fans to have the ability to pick a team up when they're down. A lot of times the fans wait for the team to pick them up, but our crowd has the ability to pick us up at different moments throughout the year."
A native of Flin Flon, Manitoba, Evason is a member of the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame alongside such hockey legends as Scotty Bowman and William (Bill) Masterton.
"To get drafted by Washington was obviously a special thing. To have the opportunity to coach in the NHL is amazing in itself," he stated. "I don't forget how fortunate, how lucky I am to play here, to coach here. Definitely being a Washington Capital as a player and a coach is something that I take special pride in."
March 29, 2009
A Quiet Caps Weekend
The Caps are enjoying a quiet weekend after beating Tampa, 5-3, Friday night. Since the team does not play again until Wednesday, the red, white and blue sent Keith Aucoin, Oskar Osala and Simeon Varlamov to the Hershey Bears. Presumably a goalie will be recalled in time for the Islanders tilt unless Brent Johnson is somehow ready (which I doubt).
The Bears (47-19-1-6, 101 points) have won seven of eight and host the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins tonight at Giant Center. The Caps' AHL affiliate already has clinched a playoff spot and boast a five-point lead (with one game in hand) on the second-place Bridgeport Sound Tigers in the East Division.
Other than the well-publicized Brian Pothier goal (which was one of the best moments of the year), the Caps stuck to their system and played 40-plus minutes of good hockey against Tampa. Unfortunately, they also languished around too much in the second stanza.
"I think we just stopped playing our game. We play very cute. We have chance to shoot, we didn't shoot," Alex Ovechkin said. "We give them recovery time to come back and they're great players and they come back and [Brian] Pothier scored a goal and wins game."
"Yeah, the passion was off," Coach Bruce Boudreau added. "We got six games left. I think they see the light at the end of the tunnel. But that team [Lightning] played very hard tonight. They wanted to win so bad. Their forwards are really good. They got some top notch forwards and we had to play very hard just to beat them."
While the Caps (99 points) are off, a few interesting things are happening around the league. The New Jersey Devils (98 points) lost both games this weekend and trail the Caps by one point with one game in hand. That contest occurs tomorrow night when the Devils visit the New York Rangers. The Caps and Devils most likely will battle for second and third right down to the wire. It doesn't appear either will catch the Boston Bruins (104 points), but you never know.
Whoever finishes with the second seed most likely will face either the Rangers or Montreal Canadiens, both of whom have been cool lately, while the third-seeded squad would square off against either the Philadelphia Flyers, Carolina Hurricanes or Pittsburgh Penguins. Clearly it's better to finish second.
The Bears (47-19-1-6, 101 points) have won seven of eight and host the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins tonight at Giant Center. The Caps' AHL affiliate already has clinched a playoff spot and boast a five-point lead (with one game in hand) on the second-place Bridgeport Sound Tigers in the East Division.
Other than the well-publicized Brian Pothier goal (which was one of the best moments of the year), the Caps stuck to their system and played 40-plus minutes of good hockey against Tampa. Unfortunately, they also languished around too much in the second stanza.
"I think we just stopped playing our game. We play very cute. We have chance to shoot, we didn't shoot," Alex Ovechkin said. "We give them recovery time to come back and they're great players and they come back and [Brian] Pothier scored a goal and wins game."
"Yeah, the passion was off," Coach Bruce Boudreau added. "We got six games left. I think they see the light at the end of the tunnel. But that team [Lightning] played very hard tonight. They wanted to win so bad. Their forwards are really good. They got some top notch forwards and we had to play very hard just to beat them."
While the Caps (99 points) are off, a few interesting things are happening around the league. The New Jersey Devils (98 points) lost both games this weekend and trail the Caps by one point with one game in hand. That contest occurs tomorrow night when the Devils visit the New York Rangers. The Caps and Devils most likely will battle for second and third right down to the wire. It doesn't appear either will catch the Boston Bruins (104 points), but you never know.
Whoever finishes with the second seed most likely will face either the Rangers or Montreal Canadiens, both of whom have been cool lately, while the third-seeded squad would square off against either the Philadelphia Flyers, Carolina Hurricanes or Pittsburgh Penguins. Clearly it's better to finish second.
March 27, 2009
Defending McPhee
The Hockey News unveiled its third annual GM rankings in the March 30 issue and somehow Caps GM George McPhee is ranked 18th. First let's examine what THN said about GMGM:
That doesn't sound so bad, right? Props to THN for mentioning Brooks Laich, who clearly offers more than his stats indicate. And, while we can't disagree with their assessment of Jose Theodore, how is GMGM in the bottom half of the rankings?
The top two GMs, Ken Holland of Detroit (11th season, three Cups) and Lou Lamoriello (21st year, three Cups) of New Jersey, without question have earned those spots. The next two, Doug Wilson of the San Jose Sharks and Peter Chiarelli, probably deserve their place too.
But then comes the confounders: David Poile of the Nashville Predators, ranked fifth; Brian Burke of the Toronto Maple Leafs, ranked seventh; Dean Lombardi of the L.A. Kings, ranked ninth; and Jacques Martin of the Florida Panthers, ranked 12th. (The others in the top-dozen are Darryl Sutter of the Calgary Flames, Darcy Regier of the Buffalo Sabres, Bob Gainey of the Montreal Canadiens and Dale Tallon of the Chicago Blackhawks.)
None of the aforementioned GMs have done a better job than McPhee. Nothing against the former Caps' GM, but David Poile's tenure with the Predators hardly has been noteworthy. Nashville has made the playoffs the last four seasons but haven't won a playoff series yet. Poile's lifetime playoff record as GM (some with the Caps) is an embarrassing 7-18. Ouch.
If this was a ranking of all-time GMs, then Burke would be ahead of McPhee. While Burke has an impressive 412-334-141 record in his 10 seasons as GM with one Stanley Cup (with the Anaheim Ducks in 1996), he's only gone 7-6 in the playoffs -- and four of those series wins came during the Cup run. There's no doubt Burke has impacted the NHL in a good way, but his performance as a GM the last few years leaves a lot to be desired. Yes, Toronto might return to prominence. But it's not happening for a few more years. The New York Rangers' Glen Sather (who clearly is past his prime) was buried at 28th, but somehow Burke made the top-10. Go figure.
As for Lombardi, there's no doubt that the Kings have a very bright future ahead. But Lombardi has just a 2-5 playoff record and a 327-371-126 lifetime record. He certainly has a strong case for future rankings, but not this time around. He somehow jumped from 27th last year to ninth this time around. Maybe he should have been 18th.
And then there's Martin, the biggest head-scratcher of them all. In his third season as Cats' GM, he's got a 107-90-34 record. Not bad. But they've missed the playoffs every season (although they might squeeze in this year) and does get credit for hiring coach Peter DeBoer. But that's not enough to place him 12th.
Others in front of McPhee include Scott Howson of the Columbus Blue Jackets (a franchise that's never made the playoffs), Ray Shero of the Pittsburgh Penguins (who inherited both Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin), Mike Gillis of the Vancouver Canucks (in his first season as GM), Doug Risebrough of the Minnesota Wild (2-5 in the playoffs) and Paul Holmgren of the Philadelphia Flyers, the only one of that list that belongs near McPhee (besides maybe Shero).
Yes, McPhee's playoff record isn't overly impressive. But to say that the Caps are "in danger of being squeezed by the salary cap in the future" isn't telling the whole story. Elsewhere in the same feature, THN lists that the Caps have drafted 33 players (1999-2008) who have suited up in the NHL. There's also a picture of Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin, Nicklas Backstrom and Mike Green with the caption "Washington's four biggest stars were all drafted and developed in-house."
That list doesn't include regulars Jeff Schultz or Eric Fehr and doesn't give McPhee credit for knowing that Laich would blossom before reaching the NHL (not including a one-game, cup-of-coffee with Ottawa). It fails to note that the Hershey Bears are thriving and have boatloads of talent waiting to crack the Caps' roster or, in some cases, have played in the NHL this season -- such as Karl Alzner, Chris Bourque and Simeon Varlamov.
It doesn't mention that McPhee smartly passed at this year's trade deadline because of the salary cap and omits the fact that some players from this year's team (most notably Michael Nylander) probably won't be returning. Finally, it leaves out that GMGM hired Bruce Boudreau to coach the Bears and then the Caps, which proved to be brilliant.
Yes, the Caps haven't won a Stanley Cup -- although that should change very soon. But to bury McPhee behind the GMs of Nashville, Columbus, Minnesota, Florida, Toronto and L.A. is just plain insulting.
George McPhee
Career: 395-397-126 (.516)
Cups: 0
Playoffs: 3-5 series record
The Capitals haven't changed their line-up much since last season, but have continued their upward trajectory into a Stanley Cup contender under coach Bruce Boudreau. Getting Mike Green under contract long term was essential, but after years of being a budget team, the Caps are in danger of being squeezed by the salary cap in the future. Signing the underrated Brooks Laich for $2 million a season was a good move. The Jose Theodore signing will be judged by his playoff performance.
Career: 395-397-126 (.516)
Cups: 0
Playoffs: 3-5 series record
The Capitals haven't changed their line-up much since last season, but have continued their upward trajectory into a Stanley Cup contender under coach Bruce Boudreau. Getting Mike Green under contract long term was essential, but after years of being a budget team, the Caps are in danger of being squeezed by the salary cap in the future. Signing the underrated Brooks Laich for $2 million a season was a good move. The Jose Theodore signing will be judged by his playoff performance.
That doesn't sound so bad, right? Props to THN for mentioning Brooks Laich, who clearly offers more than his stats indicate. And, while we can't disagree with their assessment of Jose Theodore, how is GMGM in the bottom half of the rankings?
The top two GMs, Ken Holland of Detroit (11th season, three Cups) and Lou Lamoriello (21st year, three Cups) of New Jersey, without question have earned those spots. The next two, Doug Wilson of the San Jose Sharks and Peter Chiarelli, probably deserve their place too.
But then comes the confounders: David Poile of the Nashville Predators, ranked fifth; Brian Burke of the Toronto Maple Leafs, ranked seventh; Dean Lombardi of the L.A. Kings, ranked ninth; and Jacques Martin of the Florida Panthers, ranked 12th. (The others in the top-dozen are Darryl Sutter of the Calgary Flames, Darcy Regier of the Buffalo Sabres, Bob Gainey of the Montreal Canadiens and Dale Tallon of the Chicago Blackhawks.)
None of the aforementioned GMs have done a better job than McPhee. Nothing against the former Caps' GM, but David Poile's tenure with the Predators hardly has been noteworthy. Nashville has made the playoffs the last four seasons but haven't won a playoff series yet. Poile's lifetime playoff record as GM (some with the Caps) is an embarrassing 7-18. Ouch.
If this was a ranking of all-time GMs, then Burke would be ahead of McPhee. While Burke has an impressive 412-334-141 record in his 10 seasons as GM with one Stanley Cup (with the Anaheim Ducks in 1996), he's only gone 7-6 in the playoffs -- and four of those series wins came during the Cup run. There's no doubt Burke has impacted the NHL in a good way, but his performance as a GM the last few years leaves a lot to be desired. Yes, Toronto might return to prominence. But it's not happening for a few more years. The New York Rangers' Glen Sather (who clearly is past his prime) was buried at 28th, but somehow Burke made the top-10. Go figure.
As for Lombardi, there's no doubt that the Kings have a very bright future ahead. But Lombardi has just a 2-5 playoff record and a 327-371-126 lifetime record. He certainly has a strong case for future rankings, but not this time around. He somehow jumped from 27th last year to ninth this time around. Maybe he should have been 18th.
And then there's Martin, the biggest head-scratcher of them all. In his third season as Cats' GM, he's got a 107-90-34 record. Not bad. But they've missed the playoffs every season (although they might squeeze in this year) and does get credit for hiring coach Peter DeBoer. But that's not enough to place him 12th.
Others in front of McPhee include Scott Howson of the Columbus Blue Jackets (a franchise that's never made the playoffs), Ray Shero of the Pittsburgh Penguins (who inherited both Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin), Mike Gillis of the Vancouver Canucks (in his first season as GM), Doug Risebrough of the Minnesota Wild (2-5 in the playoffs) and Paul Holmgren of the Philadelphia Flyers, the only one of that list that belongs near McPhee (besides maybe Shero).
Yes, McPhee's playoff record isn't overly impressive. But to say that the Caps are "in danger of being squeezed by the salary cap in the future" isn't telling the whole story. Elsewhere in the same feature, THN lists that the Caps have drafted 33 players (1999-2008) who have suited up in the NHL. There's also a picture of Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin, Nicklas Backstrom and Mike Green with the caption "Washington's four biggest stars were all drafted and developed in-house."
That list doesn't include regulars Jeff Schultz or Eric Fehr and doesn't give McPhee credit for knowing that Laich would blossom before reaching the NHL (not including a one-game, cup-of-coffee with Ottawa). It fails to note that the Hershey Bears are thriving and have boatloads of talent waiting to crack the Caps' roster or, in some cases, have played in the NHL this season -- such as Karl Alzner, Chris Bourque and Simeon Varlamov.
It doesn't mention that McPhee smartly passed at this year's trade deadline because of the salary cap and omits the fact that some players from this year's team (most notably Michael Nylander) probably won't be returning. Finally, it leaves out that GMGM hired Bruce Boudreau to coach the Bears and then the Caps, which proved to be brilliant.
Yes, the Caps haven't won a Stanley Cup -- although that should change very soon. But to bury McPhee behind the GMs of Nashville, Columbus, Minnesota, Florida, Toronto and L.A. is just plain insulting.
Caps Look to Curtail Lightning
The Caps (45-23-7, 97 points) face the Tampa Bay Lightning (24-33-17, 65 points) for the fifth time this season as they play their first game with a newly-minted playoff berth. But these Caps want more, starting with the Southeast Division title.
"We're not satisfied," Matt Bradley said. "We want to try to finish as high as we can, whether it's first or second [in the conference], and that's what we're going to try to do."
"We need to finish high in the standings and so far it's been great," Jose Theodore added. "We clinched the playoffs and we gotta work hard and clinch our division."
The red, white and blue has dominated the Lightning recently, winning nine straight and outscoring them, 21-9, this season. The Caps have held a three-goal lead in all four meetings and three times in the first period, when they've outscored Tampa,11-1.
The visitors, who lost last night in Montreal, are expected to start goalie Mike McKenna in a game they desperately want to win. The Caps haven't played since Tuesday and need to use this game as a launching pad towards the next phase of the season.
"Going into the playoffs on a high is definitely an important thing and it carries through into the playoffs. The next handful of games will be key for us to get some confidence going into the playoffs," Bradley said. "We have to start getting more balanced scoring through our line-up and one way to score goals no matter who you are is getting to the net and getting ugly goals."
Upcoming Milestones:
* Alex Ovechkin is four points shy of his third 100-point season; before he arrived there had only been two 100-point seasons in franchise history.
* Nicklas Backstrom and Brooks Laich are both one goal shy of 20 for the season.
* Alex Semin needs one goal and Mike Green two to reach the 30-goal plateau.
"We're not satisfied," Matt Bradley said. "We want to try to finish as high as we can, whether it's first or second [in the conference], and that's what we're going to try to do."
"We need to finish high in the standings and so far it's been great," Jose Theodore added. "We clinched the playoffs and we gotta work hard and clinch our division."
The red, white and blue has dominated the Lightning recently, winning nine straight and outscoring them, 21-9, this season. The Caps have held a three-goal lead in all four meetings and three times in the first period, when they've outscored Tampa,11-1.
The visitors, who lost last night in Montreal, are expected to start goalie Mike McKenna in a game they desperately want to win. The Caps haven't played since Tuesday and need to use this game as a launching pad towards the next phase of the season.
"Going into the playoffs on a high is definitely an important thing and it carries through into the playoffs. The next handful of games will be key for us to get some confidence going into the playoffs," Bradley said. "We have to start getting more balanced scoring through our line-up and one way to score goals no matter who you are is getting to the net and getting ugly goals."
Upcoming Milestones:
* Alex Ovechkin is four points shy of his third 100-point season; before he arrived there had only been two 100-point seasons in franchise history.
* Nicklas Backstrom and Brooks Laich are both one goal shy of 20 for the season.
* Alex Semin needs one goal and Mike Green two to reach the 30-goal plateau.
March 26, 2009
Professor Bradley Talks TV
One of the more popular features of "Caps Redline Monday" is Forces of Hockey with Professor Matt Bradley. The segment discusses the science of hockey and compares occurrences in everyday life with what takes place on the ice. When it came to the explanations, though, Bradley had lots of help.
"I don't understand any of it, if you want to know," Bradley told STC. "It was just something fun. They had a teleprompter for me to read from and that was good."
Bradley, a staple on the Caps' checking line, boasts five goals and five assists this season and has played in all but one of the team's games.
"I learned a couple of things like mathematical stuff, but I don't even remember what it was," he quipped. "I know how much force is in a hit and that kind of stuff but it's not something I'll remember for very long, I don't think."
Whether he has mastered it or not, Bradley has been one of the Caps' hardest workers this season and deserves the attention he's received.
"They came to me with the idea and I agreed," Bradley said. "So it worked out pretty good."
"I don't understand any of it, if you want to know," Bradley told STC. "It was just something fun. They had a teleprompter for me to read from and that was good."
Bradley, a staple on the Caps' checking line, boasts five goals and five assists this season and has played in all but one of the team's games.
"I learned a couple of things like mathematical stuff, but I don't even remember what it was," he quipped. "I know how much force is in a hit and that kind of stuff but it's not something I'll remember for very long, I don't think."
Whether he has mastered it or not, Bradley has been one of the Caps' hardest workers this season and deserves the attention he's received.
"They came to me with the idea and I agreed," Bradley said. "So it worked out pretty good."
Kettler Gets a Crowd
Before at least 100 fans, the Caps took the ice this morning for their first practice after returning home from a long road trip. The lines:
TSN was there as was the Washington Post Magazine, which apparently is doing a feature on Mike Green. GM George McPhee was around too.
The most interesting drill of the day had the team working in the corners, passing the puck back to the point and then the forward storming the crease before the shot from the point could be unleashed.
As a public service, here's the video of Boudreau's post-practice comments sparked by a question about Alex Ovechkin's 50th goal celebration and Tampa Bay's arrival tomorrow night:
The most interesting part of what he said concerned the Lightning playing hard tomorrow night. Hopefully the Caps will be ready if and when that happens.
Red: Ovechkin-Fedorov-Fehr (It would be a nice reward for Fehr)
Gray: Laich-Backstrom-Semin (who wasn't on the ice)
Green: Fleischmann-Nylander-Kozlov (the all-uncertain future line?)
White: Erskine-Steckel-Bradley
Gray: Laich-Backstrom-Semin (who wasn't on the ice)
Green: Fleischmann-Nylander-Kozlov (the all-uncertain future line?)
White: Erskine-Steckel-Bradley
TSN was there as was the Washington Post Magazine, which apparently is doing a feature on Mike Green. GM George McPhee was around too.
The most interesting drill of the day had the team working in the corners, passing the puck back to the point and then the forward storming the crease before the shot from the point could be unleashed.
As a public service, here's the video of Boudreau's post-practice comments sparked by a question about Alex Ovechkin's 50th goal celebration and Tampa Bay's arrival tomorrow night:
The most interesting part of what he said concerned the Lightning playing hard tomorrow night. Hopefully the Caps will be ready if and when that happens.
March 25, 2009
Caps Rest After Loss
After last night's disappointing shootout loss, and with a quiet stretch ahead, the Caps didn't practice today -- although injured Donald Brashear was skating. The team is scheduled to practice tomorrow morning.
The only other news today is that the Caps recalled goaltender Simeon Varlamov from Hershey and assigned Daren Machesney, Chris Bourque and Steve Pinizzotto to the Bears. Remember the Caps only sent Varlamov to Hershey yesterday. Most of these roster changes have been deemed emergency recalls, so the Caps are still under the NHL limit of four from the trading deadline through the end of the regular season.
With seven games remaining, the Caps need just two more points to clinch a playoff spot. Barring a historic collapse, this will be the first time since 1999-2000 and 2000-01 that the Caps will make back-to-back to playoff appearances.
Also, the Caps need just four more points to clinch the Southeast Division. If they do, it will be the first time since those same two seasons that the franchise will claim back-to-back division championships. Washington has been division champs only four times in club history (2007-08, Southeast Division; 2000-01, Southeast Division; 1999-00, Southeast Division; 1988-89, Patrick Division).
The only other news today is that the Caps recalled goaltender Simeon Varlamov from Hershey and assigned Daren Machesney, Chris Bourque and Steve Pinizzotto to the Bears. Remember the Caps only sent Varlamov to Hershey yesterday. Most of these roster changes have been deemed emergency recalls, so the Caps are still under the NHL limit of four from the trading deadline through the end of the regular season.
With seven games remaining, the Caps need just two more points to clinch a playoff spot. Barring a historic collapse, this will be the first time since 1999-2000 and 2000-01 that the Caps will make back-to-back to playoff appearances.
Also, the Caps need just four more points to clinch the Southeast Division. If they do, it will be the first time since those same two seasons that the franchise will claim back-to-back division championships. Washington has been division champs only four times in club history (2007-08, Southeast Division; 2000-01, Southeast Division; 1999-00, Southeast Division; 1988-89, Patrick Division).
March 24, 2009
Fifty-Gate: Boudreau Supports Ovechkin
With the Caps in Toronto, Alex Ovechkin's celebration of his 50th goal has been brought up one more time. And Caps Coach Bruce Boudreau is very supportive.
"I didn't really think it. Everyone else thought it. We talked... I didn't even see it at first. I just heard everyone was all ticked off at him and everything," Boudreau said this morning. "And when I saw it, I didn't think it was that big a deal."
Count Maple Leafs and former Caps Coach Ron Wilson in that category too.
"But seeing how exciting he is when he scores, I think we need more people like that," he said. "Just the exuberance. He looks like he loves what he's doing. I think that's very important and we need more players like that."
XM Radio's Jim "Boomer" Gordon went on a long tirade about the subject during his show yesterday afternoon. In short, he was very supportive of Ovechkin's fervor and feels critics should spend more time worrying about the increasing number of shots to the head than focusing on goal celebrations. Amen to that.
Meanwhile, it seems Alex Semin and Matt Bradley are going to play tonight after all. Just in case, the Caps recalled Daren Machesney and forward Steve Pinizzotto while sending Simeon Varlamov back to Hershey. The move allows Varly to get more playing time as the Bears have a busy stretch upcoming while the Caps' schedule is more dormant.
"I didn't really think it. Everyone else thought it. We talked... I didn't even see it at first. I just heard everyone was all ticked off at him and everything," Boudreau said this morning. "And when I saw it, I didn't think it was that big a deal."
Count Maple Leafs and former Caps Coach Ron Wilson in that category too.
"But seeing how exciting he is when he scores, I think we need more people like that," he said. "Just the exuberance. He looks like he loves what he's doing. I think that's very important and we need more players like that."
XM Radio's Jim "Boomer" Gordon went on a long tirade about the subject during his show yesterday afternoon. In short, he was very supportive of Ovechkin's fervor and feels critics should spend more time worrying about the increasing number of shots to the head than focusing on goal celebrations. Amen to that.
Meanwhile, it seems Alex Semin and Matt Bradley are going to play tonight after all. Just in case, the Caps recalled Daren Machesney and forward Steve Pinizzotto while sending Simeon Varlamov back to Hershey. The move allows Varly to get more playing time as the Bears have a busy stretch upcoming while the Caps' schedule is more dormant.
Last Game North of the Border
With the Caps' man-games lost at 340 and counting, Alex Semin and Matt Bradley most likely will miss tonight's game in Toronto (7 p.m., CSN) with the flu. Injuries and illness has caused the Caps to dress 41 different players dress this season, including 16 call-ups from the Hershey Bears. By comparison, the 2005-06 Caps finished 27th in the NHL when dressing 40 players. Fourteen defensemen have suited up for the red, white and blue this year, including Sergei Fedorov on occasion. That's five more than Washington used all of last year.
But the season's more prevalent theme continues to be the dearth of secondary scoring -- which is directly connected to the team's well-publicized inconsistency.
Despite all that, the Caps look good for a second straight division title -- but they better beware of the surging Carolina Hurricanes (as if Saturday's 4-1 loss wasn't enough proof). The good news is that the Caps have a quiet schedule over the next week. After tonight's game, they only play twice betwen now and next Friday, April 3 (this Friday vs. Tampa and April Fool's Day vs. the New York Islanders). But after that, it's a busy ride down the stretch.
While Alex Ovechkin got his 50th goal last week, the organization's third Alex (Giroux) registered just the fifth 50-goal season in Hershey history when he scored Sunday in a 3-2 victory over the Manchester Monarchs. Giroux has 17 more goals than any other AHL player. Semin, Ovechkin and Giroux have 129 combined goals. Not bad, eh?
Ovie is on pace to become just the second player in NHL history to register more than 500 shots in a season. He won't break Phil Esposito's record 550 set during the 1970-71 season (this time around, anyway) but he's still at the top of the list:
The Caps lead the all-time series, 53-48-10-1, with the Maple Leafs but trail 20-29-6-0 in Toronto. With a point tonight, the Caps would clinch the season series with the Leafs. They've already captured season series against Boston, Montreal, New Jersey, N.Y. Rangers, Ottawa and Pittsburgh this season.
In the previous three games against the Leafs, the Caps have allowed just four goals. Despite not playing in the teams' last meeting (a 2-1 Toronto victory), Ovechkin has 13 goals in 14 career games against Toronto.
Although he might not play tonight, Simeon Varlamov is the first Capitals rookie goaltender to win his first three starts since Jim Carey did it in 1995. Varlamov, the youngest Russian goalie to start an NHL game, has a 1.74 goals-against average and a .939 save percentage in four appearances.
But the season's more prevalent theme continues to be the dearth of secondary scoring -- which is directly connected to the team's well-publicized inconsistency.
Despite all that, the Caps look good for a second straight division title -- but they better beware of the surging Carolina Hurricanes (as if Saturday's 4-1 loss wasn't enough proof). The good news is that the Caps have a quiet schedule over the next week. After tonight's game, they only play twice betwen now and next Friday, April 3 (this Friday vs. Tampa and April Fool's Day vs. the New York Islanders). But after that, it's a busy ride down the stretch.
While Alex Ovechkin got his 50th goal last week, the organization's third Alex (Giroux) registered just the fifth 50-goal season in Hershey history when he scored Sunday in a 3-2 victory over the Manchester Monarchs. Giroux has 17 more goals than any other AHL player. Semin, Ovechkin and Giroux have 129 combined goals. Not bad, eh?
Ovie is on pace to become just the second player in NHL history to register more than 500 shots in a season. He won't break Phil Esposito's record 550 set during the 1970-71 season (this time around, anyway) but he's still at the top of the list:
1. Espo, 550 (1970-71)
2. Ovie, 468 (current)
3. Ovie, 446 (2007-08)
4. Paul Kariya, 429 (1998-99)
5. Espo, 426 (1971-72)
6. Ovie, 425 (2005-06)
2. Ovie, 468 (current)
3. Ovie, 446 (2007-08)
4. Paul Kariya, 429 (1998-99)
5. Espo, 426 (1971-72)
6. Ovie, 425 (2005-06)
The Caps lead the all-time series, 53-48-10-1, with the Maple Leafs but trail 20-29-6-0 in Toronto. With a point tonight, the Caps would clinch the season series with the Leafs. They've already captured season series against Boston, Montreal, New Jersey, N.Y. Rangers, Ottawa and Pittsburgh this season.
In the previous three games against the Leafs, the Caps have allowed just four goals. Despite not playing in the teams' last meeting (a 2-1 Toronto victory), Ovechkin has 13 goals in 14 career games against Toronto.
Although he might not play tonight, Simeon Varlamov is the first Capitals rookie goaltender to win his first three starts since Jim Carey did it in 1995. Varlamov, the youngest Russian goalie to start an NHL game, has a 1.74 goals-against average and a .939 save percentage in four appearances.
March 23, 2009
Final Eastern Spot in Focus
With all but the final spot in the Eastern Conference virtually locked up, the free-falling Montreal Canadiens are in danger of missing the playoffs in a season when they hoped to be challenging for the Stanley Cup. But the Habs aren't helping themselves by losing five straight, going 3-5-2 in their last 10 and only winning consecutive games four times (two four-gamers and a couple of two-gamers) this calendar year.
At the moment, the Habs have 81 points, one ahead of the Florida Panthers, five ahead of the Buffalo Sabres, seven ahead of the Ottawa Senators and eight in front of the rival Toronto Maple Leafs.
Of the four pursuers, the Senators are the hottest -- and it's not even close. Ottawa has won five straight, nine of 10 and have points in 18 of their last 25 games. Not bad for a team that was 13-19-6 (32 points) on Jan. 7. If not for the New York Islanders, they would be looking to repeat the Caps' worst-to-playoffs feat of last season.
The Panthers should be playing better. They kept Jay Bouwmeester in the hopes of ending their playoff drought but just haven't shown the desperation of a team just one point out of a playoff spot. Despite their 4-4-1 March (three of those wins came in the team's first four games this month), the team has stayed close because of the Habs' ineptitude.
The Sabres, who haven't been the same since Ryan Miller was hurt in late February, don't appear to have any shot at the playoffs. And the Leafs, while playing better, are closer to rebuilding than postseason play.
So it appears either Montreal or Florida will earn the right to lose in the first round, but don't count out the hot Senators.
At the moment, the Habs have 81 points, one ahead of the Florida Panthers, five ahead of the Buffalo Sabres, seven ahead of the Ottawa Senators and eight in front of the rival Toronto Maple Leafs.
Of the four pursuers, the Senators are the hottest -- and it's not even close. Ottawa has won five straight, nine of 10 and have points in 18 of their last 25 games. Not bad for a team that was 13-19-6 (32 points) on Jan. 7. If not for the New York Islanders, they would be looking to repeat the Caps' worst-to-playoffs feat of last season.
The Panthers should be playing better. They kept Jay Bouwmeester in the hopes of ending their playoff drought but just haven't shown the desperation of a team just one point out of a playoff spot. Despite their 4-4-1 March (three of those wins came in the team's first four games this month), the team has stayed close because of the Habs' ineptitude.
The Sabres, who haven't been the same since Ryan Miller was hurt in late February, don't appear to have any shot at the playoffs. And the Leafs, while playing better, are closer to rebuilding than postseason play.
So it appears either Montreal or Florida will earn the right to lose in the first round, but don't count out the hot Senators.
March 22, 2009
Caps Chase Division, History
In an ideal world, the Caps would stick to their system every night, storm the crease, shoot the puck a lot, avoid uber-hot goalies and remain consistent while winning more often than not. While that ideal world is possible, the Caps as currently constructed are not at that point yet.
Last night's 4-1 loss in Carolina was a perfect example. The Caps didn't shoot enough, certainly didn't storm the crease and didn't stick to their system. The first period was the best of the three, while the Canes took over in the second and third for a victory that was easier than it should have been given the fact they had played the night before (albeit at home).
The only good news is that Mike Green scored his 28th goal of the season, meaning the Caps are one Alex Semin goal and two Green goals from boasting three 30-goal scorers. The only team in the league better than them in that category is the Detroit Red Wings (the best team in the league right now) who, with tallies from Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg, will claim four.
Green (the only Cap ever to don No. 52) also would become the first NHL defenseman to reach the 30-goal plateau since Kevin Hatcher recorded a Caps-record 34 during the 1992-93 season. The NHL record is 48 by Paul Coffey in 79 games for the Edmonton Oilers during the 1985-86 season. Only Coffey (who did it again in 1983-84) and Bobby Orr (in 1975-76) have broken the 40-goal plateau -- and never in an 82-game schedule. Green won't hit that total this year, but it's certainly not out of the realm of possibility for his bright future.
Speaking of records, Alex Ovechkin is one-third of the way to the NHL record of nine 50-goal seasons achieved by Mike Bossy and Wayne Gretzky. Bossy did it in 10 seasons, the Great One in 20. Bossy also recorded all nine in succession, while Gretzky unleashed eight in a row.
Meanwhile, the Caps are 5-2 since their March 8 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins and looking solid down the stretch. They should clinch the division any day now as they still boast an 11-point lead over Carolina -- who currently sit sixth in the ever-changing Eastern Conference. The teams don't meet again in the regular season.
Speaking of which, could Montreal actually miss the playoffs? The Habs, who are in eighth place, have 81 points (three fewer than the seventh-place New York Rangers) and are only one point ahead of the Florida Panthers. They're also 3-5-2 in their last 10.
Then again, the Cats are 4-4-2 in their last 10 and don't look that great either. Whichever one of these teams finish in eighth will be the victims of whoever finishes first in the conference. It doesn't look like that will be the Caps. Although they're only four points behind Boston, the Bruins have two games in hand and the Devils, who are one point ahead of the Caps, have three in hand.
The Caps are off until Tuesday in Toronto (7 p.m., CSN), which is followed by their final homestand of the season.
Last night's 4-1 loss in Carolina was a perfect example. The Caps didn't shoot enough, certainly didn't storm the crease and didn't stick to their system. The first period was the best of the three, while the Canes took over in the second and third for a victory that was easier than it should have been given the fact they had played the night before (albeit at home).
The only good news is that Mike Green scored his 28th goal of the season, meaning the Caps are one Alex Semin goal and two Green goals from boasting three 30-goal scorers. The only team in the league better than them in that category is the Detroit Red Wings (the best team in the league right now) who, with tallies from Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg, will claim four.
Green (the only Cap ever to don No. 52) also would become the first NHL defenseman to reach the 30-goal plateau since Kevin Hatcher recorded a Caps-record 34 during the 1992-93 season. The NHL record is 48 by Paul Coffey in 79 games for the Edmonton Oilers during the 1985-86 season. Only Coffey (who did it again in 1983-84) and Bobby Orr (in 1975-76) have broken the 40-goal plateau -- and never in an 82-game schedule. Green won't hit that total this year, but it's certainly not out of the realm of possibility for his bright future.
Speaking of records, Alex Ovechkin is one-third of the way to the NHL record of nine 50-goal seasons achieved by Mike Bossy and Wayne Gretzky. Bossy did it in 10 seasons, the Great One in 20. Bossy also recorded all nine in succession, while Gretzky unleashed eight in a row.
Meanwhile, the Caps are 5-2 since their March 8 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins and looking solid down the stretch. They should clinch the division any day now as they still boast an 11-point lead over Carolina -- who currently sit sixth in the ever-changing Eastern Conference. The teams don't meet again in the regular season.
Speaking of which, could Montreal actually miss the playoffs? The Habs, who are in eighth place, have 81 points (three fewer than the seventh-place New York Rangers) and are only one point ahead of the Florida Panthers. They're also 3-5-2 in their last 10.
Then again, the Cats are 4-4-2 in their last 10 and don't look that great either. Whichever one of these teams finish in eighth will be the victims of whoever finishes first in the conference. It doesn't look like that will be the Caps. Although they're only four points behind Boston, the Bruins have two games in hand and the Devils, who are one point ahead of the Caps, have three in hand.
The Caps are off until Tuesday in Toronto (7 p.m., CSN), which is followed by their final homestand of the season.
March 20, 2009
Caps Overwhelm Lightning
The Caps might have strayed from the system a bit, but against an inferior opponent, it didn't matter. Alex Ovechkin scored his 50th goal of the season, Mike Green got his 26th and 27th and the red, white, and blue pulled away from the Tampa Bay Lightning, 5-2. Green left the game a few minutes early but said he just got the wind knocked out of him and will be fine. (We hope that's true.)
That being said, the first two periods were a bit sloppy as the game was more wide-open than it should have been. It was 2-2 after two, but the Lightning hit a post (or two) and had some better scoring chances than the Caps. Once the Caps settled down, however, it was over.
"I really think it was such a far cry from the way we played the first two periods against Florida, where we were in their face and not allowing anything," Coach Bruce Boudreau said. "We were swinging and circling. We want to get that consistency that we were talking about."
Quintin Laing was recalled from Hershey (through waivers) to replace Boyd Gordon, who's out 2-3 weeks with a broken finger.
"He was really good," Boudreau said. "We've always liked Quintin. He blocked a shot again. He was instrumental in [Matt] Bradley's goal. He's just a professional player. We're glad he cleared waivers."
It also should be noted that Nicklas Backstrom, with a career-high 56 assists, is fifth in the league (tied with Joe Thornton) and just three behind Pavel Datsyuk for third. It's unlikely he'll catch Sidney Crosby (65) or Evgeni Malkin (70), but it's been a great sophomore season for Backstrom.
And, don't look now, but the Caps (45-22-6, 96 points) are just four points behind the Boston Bruins (and only seven behind the league-best San Jose Sharks) in the standings. The Bs have a game in hand and the New Jersey Devils, who sit in third with 95 points, have three in hand. While these three teams battle it out for the top seeds, there's an 11-point gap between the Devils and the fourth-place Philadelphia Flyers -- and only four points between Philly and the ninth-place Florida Panthers. (The Buffalo Sabres, with 76 points, appear to be out of it.)
It all sets up for a fun ending to the season, starting the Caps' game in Carolina tomorrow night (7 p.m., CSN).
That being said, the first two periods were a bit sloppy as the game was more wide-open than it should have been. It was 2-2 after two, but the Lightning hit a post (or two) and had some better scoring chances than the Caps. Once the Caps settled down, however, it was over.
"I really think it was such a far cry from the way we played the first two periods against Florida, where we were in their face and not allowing anything," Coach Bruce Boudreau said. "We were swinging and circling. We want to get that consistency that we were talking about."
Quintin Laing was recalled from Hershey (through waivers) to replace Boyd Gordon, who's out 2-3 weeks with a broken finger.
"He was really good," Boudreau said. "We've always liked Quintin. He blocked a shot again. He was instrumental in [Matt] Bradley's goal. He's just a professional player. We're glad he cleared waivers."
It also should be noted that Nicklas Backstrom, with a career-high 56 assists, is fifth in the league (tied with Joe Thornton) and just three behind Pavel Datsyuk for third. It's unlikely he'll catch Sidney Crosby (65) or Evgeni Malkin (70), but it's been a great sophomore season for Backstrom.
And, don't look now, but the Caps (45-22-6, 96 points) are just four points behind the Boston Bruins (and only seven behind the league-best San Jose Sharks) in the standings. The Bs have a game in hand and the New Jersey Devils, who sit in third with 95 points, have three in hand. While these three teams battle it out for the top seeds, there's an 11-point gap between the Devils and the fourth-place Philadelphia Flyers -- and only four points between Philly and the ninth-place Florida Panthers. (The Buffalo Sabres, with 76 points, appear to be out of it.)
It all sets up for a fun ending to the season, starting the Caps' game in Carolina tomorrow night (7 p.m., CSN).
March 19, 2009
Against Caps, Lightning Crashes
The Caps (44-22-6) love playing the Tampa Bay Lightning -- no matter the setting. They're 3-0-0 against the 'Ning this season and have won eight in a row against Tampa overall. Bruce Boudreau is 8-0-0 as a head coach against the Lightning, including four wins at the St. Pete Times Forum. The winning streak dates to a 5-2 Lightning win on Nov. 16, 2007, and is the longest streak by either team in series history. It's Washington's longest active winning streak against any team. 51-24-6-4, and 24-14-2-2 in Tampa.
That being said, tonight's game (7:30 p.m., CSN) still isn't a walkover and the Caps must play as well or better than they did against the Florida Panthers to get the two points (preferably in regulation). But history is on their side: The Caps have scored three goals in the first period of each of the first three games against Tampa Bay this season while holding the Lightning without a first-period goal. Each of those three first-period efforts have come against a different Lightning goaltender (Olie Kolzig, Mike Smith and Mike McKenna). Overall, the Caps have outscored Tampa, 16-7, on the season and, 15-5, at even strength.
Another bit of good news: Jose Theodore's shutout is coming off a shutout of the Panthers (second of the season, 28th of his career) and is 4-2-1 with a 2.23 goals-against average and a .919 save percentage in his last seven starts. Since Dec. 23, Theodore is 20-9-3 (2.57, .911). Theodore's 28-15-4 record this season gives him the best winning percentage of his career. It also has pulled him within one win of .500 for his career (211-212-44). The last time Theodore was .500 in his career was Nov. 9, 1998 (8-8-2) at the time; the last time he was over .500 was Feb. 17, 1997 (5-4-2).
Tuesday's win gave the Caps 94 points, matching last season's total. They need 13 points in the last 10 games to set a new franchise record and seven more wins to pass that record. (What do you know, seven wins gives them 14 points, killing two birds with one stone).
That being said, tonight's game (7:30 p.m., CSN) still isn't a walkover and the Caps must play as well or better than they did against the Florida Panthers to get the two points (preferably in regulation). But history is on their side: The Caps have scored three goals in the first period of each of the first three games against Tampa Bay this season while holding the Lightning without a first-period goal. Each of those three first-period efforts have come against a different Lightning goaltender (Olie Kolzig, Mike Smith and Mike McKenna). Overall, the Caps have outscored Tampa, 16-7, on the season and, 15-5, at even strength.
Another bit of good news: Jose Theodore's shutout is coming off a shutout of the Panthers (second of the season, 28th of his career) and is 4-2-1 with a 2.23 goals-against average and a .919 save percentage in his last seven starts. Since Dec. 23, Theodore is 20-9-3 (2.57, .911). Theodore's 28-15-4 record this season gives him the best winning percentage of his career. It also has pulled him within one win of .500 for his career (211-212-44). The last time Theodore was .500 in his career was Nov. 9, 1998 (8-8-2) at the time; the last time he was over .500 was Feb. 17, 1997 (5-4-2).
Tuesday's win gave the Caps 94 points, matching last season's total. They need 13 points in the last 10 games to set a new franchise record and seven more wins to pass that record. (What do you know, seven wins gives them 14 points, killing two birds with one stone).
March 18, 2009
'System' Win: Caps 3, Panthers 0
The Caps pulled a 180 last night -- and played the way a team in their position should -- by beating the Florida Panthers, 3-0, just 24 hours after being embarrassed in a 5-1 loss to the Atlanta Thrashers.
"We stuck to the system and we got a big win," John Erskine said.
"Maybe we came out a little slow at the start, but we stuck to our system. When you do that, you're going to win games. That's the biggest difference between last night and tonight," Mike Green added.
Coach Bruce Boudreau has preached sticking to the system throughout the entire season and this is proof that he knows what he's talking about.
The cherry on top of the proverbial sundae was holding the Panthers without a shot in the final stanza for just third time in franchise history. The other time it happened on the road was against these same Panthers (Feb. 24, 1994 in a 2-1 win), while the Caps also accomplished the feat at Capital Centre in a 1-1 tie with the Minnesota North Stars on Dec. 26, 1975. Let's not forgot the Caps only allowed four shots to the Thrashers in Monday's third period.
"I've never been involved in a game where that's happened," Boudreau said. "It's a great testament to our players. They proved they can do it when they want to do it. It was a total team win and we got that secondary scoring."
Although he didn't score a goal, Alex Ovechkin notched the 400th point of his fabulous four-year NHL career. He's nearly halfway to Peter Bondra's franchise record of 825 and could realistically reach that tally in four more seasons. By the way, Patrik Elias became the Devils' career leading scorer when he recorded his 702nd point last night. Ovechkin could surpass that total in another two or three years. And he's just 23.
The Caps now get a day off before facing the Tampa Bay Lightning tomorrow night at the St. Pete Times Forum (7:30 p.m., CSN).
UPDATE: The Caps also held Florida shotless in a period on Feb. 15, 2003. (h/t OFB and the Caps)
"We stuck to the system and we got a big win," John Erskine said.
"Maybe we came out a little slow at the start, but we stuck to our system. When you do that, you're going to win games. That's the biggest difference between last night and tonight," Mike Green added.
Coach Bruce Boudreau has preached sticking to the system throughout the entire season and this is proof that he knows what he's talking about.
The cherry on top of the proverbial sundae was holding the Panthers without a shot in the final stanza for just third time in franchise history. The other time it happened on the road was against these same Panthers (Feb. 24, 1994 in a 2-1 win), while the Caps also accomplished the feat at Capital Centre in a 1-1 tie with the Minnesota North Stars on Dec. 26, 1975. Let's not forgot the Caps only allowed four shots to the Thrashers in Monday's third period.
"I've never been involved in a game where that's happened," Boudreau said. "It's a great testament to our players. They proved they can do it when they want to do it. It was a total team win and we got that secondary scoring."
Although he didn't score a goal, Alex Ovechkin notched the 400th point of his fabulous four-year NHL career. He's nearly halfway to Peter Bondra's franchise record of 825 and could realistically reach that tally in four more seasons. By the way, Patrik Elias became the Devils' career leading scorer when he recorded his 702nd point last night. Ovechkin could surpass that total in another two or three years. And he's just 23.
The Caps now get a day off before facing the Tampa Bay Lightning tomorrow night at the St. Pete Times Forum (7:30 p.m., CSN).
UPDATE: The Caps also held Florida shotless in a period on Feb. 15, 2003. (h/t OFB and the Caps)
March 17, 2009
The Correlation Between Goals Allowed, Shots Allowed
Conventional wisdom might suggest that teams that yield the fewest goals do so because they yield the fewest shots. That formula has been used by the Detroit Red Wings and New Jersey Devils to much success and numerous Stanley Cups. But, as Lee Corso or Mike Golic might say, not so fast my friend.
The Devils have been able to keep up their success in both categories (2.43 GAA, 3rd; 28.9 SA/G, 8th), but they're only one of three teams in the league's top 10 for GAA and fewest shots allowed per game. The other two are the San Jose Sharks (2.27, 2nd; 27.5, 1st) and Vancouver Canucks (2.69, 7th; 29.1, 1oth).
There also are two that come close. The Chicago Blackhawks are fifth in GAA (2.58) but 11th in shots against (29.2), while the Columbus Blue Jackets are fifth in SA (28.1) and 11th in GAA (2.73).
The Caps are in the middle of the pack in both GAA (2.90, 18th) and SA/G (29.5, 14th).
The team with the best GAA (2.27) in the NHL, the Boston Bruins, give up 30 shots per game (17th). A team in a similar situation is the Minnesota Wild, who are fourth in GAA (2.45) but 20th in SA (30.6). The most surprising team was the Florida Panthers, who are just one point out of a playoff spot with a respectable ninth in GAA (2.72), but allow the most shots on goal per game (34.6).
Conversely, the Wings allow the third-fewest shots per game (27.7) but are 20th in GAA (2.91). Same applies to the L.A. Kings (27.6, 2nd; 2.83, 14th) and the Dallas Stars (27.9, 4th; 3.00, 22nd).
This means that, of the top five teams in the league, only two (New Jersey and San Jose) are solid in both categories. Both of these teams use a balanced formula to win many games. But the Caps, Wings and Bruins are able to overcome these obstacles and still win games.
And, for those that are curious, failing in both categories usually does lead to a bad record. The two worst teams in the league, Tampa Bay and the New York Islanders, also are in the bottom five in both GAA and SA/G.
The Devils have been able to keep up their success in both categories (2.43 GAA, 3rd; 28.9 SA/G, 8th), but they're only one of three teams in the league's top 10 for GAA and fewest shots allowed per game. The other two are the San Jose Sharks (2.27, 2nd; 27.5, 1st) and Vancouver Canucks (2.69, 7th; 29.1, 1oth).
There also are two that come close. The Chicago Blackhawks are fifth in GAA (2.58) but 11th in shots against (29.2), while the Columbus Blue Jackets are fifth in SA (28.1) and 11th in GAA (2.73).
The Caps are in the middle of the pack in both GAA (2.90, 18th) and SA/G (29.5, 14th).
The team with the best GAA (2.27) in the NHL, the Boston Bruins, give up 30 shots per game (17th). A team in a similar situation is the Minnesota Wild, who are fourth in GAA (2.45) but 20th in SA (30.6). The most surprising team was the Florida Panthers, who are just one point out of a playoff spot with a respectable ninth in GAA (2.72), but allow the most shots on goal per game (34.6).
Conversely, the Wings allow the third-fewest shots per game (27.7) but are 20th in GAA (2.91). Same applies to the L.A. Kings (27.6, 2nd; 2.83, 14th) and the Dallas Stars (27.9, 4th; 3.00, 22nd).
This means that, of the top five teams in the league, only two (New Jersey and San Jose) are solid in both categories. Both of these teams use a balanced formula to win many games. But the Caps, Wings and Bruins are able to overcome these obstacles and still win games.
And, for those that are curious, failing in both categories usually does lead to a bad record. The two worst teams in the league, Tampa Bay and the New York Islanders, also are in the bottom five in both GAA and SA/G.
Different Opponent, Same Old Story
It's a shame that, for whatever reason, the Caps can't play 60 minutes every night. Granted, they output an amazing effort now and again and sometimes they can win with a less-than-stellar effort. But in March, with the regular season winding down, efforts such as the one they put forth in last night's 5-1 loss to the Atlanta Thrashers are unacceptable. It's something that's going to be addressed in the off-season for a team with a ton of talent.
"It was a lot of effort issues, I thought," Coach Bruce Boudreau said after the game. "Among the things we talked about between the second and third [periods] was that we're not going to score on this guy tonight unless someone goes to the front of the net. If you look at our past few games, we're getting all pretty goals and power-play goals. But nobody's willing to get dirty."
These are not new issues. It's something Boudreau has addressed at least a dozen times this season and it's a shame that the quite-young Caps aren't grasping this aspect. It's nice to have a big lead in your division, but there are bigger goals in mind for the team with the third-best record in the Eastern Conference.
The defense was porous to the point that Brian Pothier, playing his first game in 14 months, was the best blueliner on the ice.
"I felt pretty good. I saw the ice decent. I made a couple of mistakes that led to penalties and we got in trouble so I was a little frustrated by that," he said after the game. "But I had lots of energy. My legs felt fine."
Mike Green was out with the flu but against a team that had 30 fewer standings points coming into the game, that should not have been an issue. Tom Poti played one of his worst games of the season, and that's saying a lot because his stock has fallen faster than AIG's.
The Caps get another crack at it tonight against the Florida Panthers (7:30 p.m., CSN), who are 1-2-2 in their last five but always seem to play well against the red, white and blue.
"It was a lot of effort issues, I thought," Coach Bruce Boudreau said after the game. "Among the things we talked about between the second and third [periods] was that we're not going to score on this guy tonight unless someone goes to the front of the net. If you look at our past few games, we're getting all pretty goals and power-play goals. But nobody's willing to get dirty."
These are not new issues. It's something Boudreau has addressed at least a dozen times this season and it's a shame that the quite-young Caps aren't grasping this aspect. It's nice to have a big lead in your division, but there are bigger goals in mind for the team with the third-best record in the Eastern Conference.
The defense was porous to the point that Brian Pothier, playing his first game in 14 months, was the best blueliner on the ice.
"I felt pretty good. I saw the ice decent. I made a couple of mistakes that led to penalties and we got in trouble so I was a little frustrated by that," he said after the game. "But I had lots of energy. My legs felt fine."
Mike Green was out with the flu but against a team that had 30 fewer standings points coming into the game, that should not have been an issue. Tom Poti played one of his worst games of the season, and that's saying a lot because his stock has fallen faster than AIG's.
The Caps get another crack at it tonight against the Florida Panthers (7:30 p.m., CSN), who are 1-2-2 in their last five but always seem to play well against the red, white and blue.
March 16, 2009
Southeast Showdown Week
The Caps begin an all-division week tonight in Atlanta (7 p.m., Versus) when a couple of familiar faces will re-join the team. Brian Pothier, who has been out for more than a year with serious post-concussion symptoms, and Simeon Varlamov are back and might play tonight. Pothier finished a four-game rehab stint in Hershey and is ready to return to the NHL.
Varlamov, meanwhile, spent much of the season in Hershey since his earlier stint in the NHL (and some time out with an injury) and should be starting tonight or tomorrow in Florida. In fact, it's safe to say that, barring the Caps resigning the currently-injured Brent Johnson, Varlamov might be up with the big club for good.
Meantime, it seems Sergei Fedorov and Donald Brashear are both still hurt and won't be back tonight (we think).
Alex Ovechkin is one of four Caps who are averaging more than a point per game; no other team has more than two players above a point-per-game pace. Alex Semin (1.35), Ovechkin (1.33), Nicklas Backstrom (1.06) and Mike Green (1.05) all rank among the top 15 NHLers in points per game (minimum 12 GP).
Ovechkin is gunning for his 50th goal this season (which would be his third overall, a Caps record) and the numbers say he's got a good shot. Ovie has 16 career goals against Thrashers goalie Kari Lehtonen, six more than any other netminder; his 23 goals vs. Atlanta are his most vs. any team. (And it doesn't hurt that Ilya Kovalchuk won't play tonight.)
If Semin scores tonight, it will be the second time he's hit the 30-goal plateau, while a Backstrom tally would give him 20 for the first time in his young career. Backstrom's 55 assists ties the total from his rookie year, while Semin is just four points away from tying his career high and nine goals from equalling that tally (both from the 2006-07 season). With 40, he's already surpassed the 35 assists he registered that campaign.
Finally, the Caps can tie a club record for consecutive victories on the road tonight by posting their sixth win in a row away from Verizon Center. That would tie the mark set in 1983-84. The Thrashers are gunning their their sixth-straight win overall, which would tie a franchise record.
For those that care, tonight's Versus crew is Joe Beninati (play-by-play), Darren Eliot (analyst) and Bob Harwood (reporter).
Varlamov, meanwhile, spent much of the season in Hershey since his earlier stint in the NHL (and some time out with an injury) and should be starting tonight or tomorrow in Florida. In fact, it's safe to say that, barring the Caps resigning the currently-injured Brent Johnson, Varlamov might be up with the big club for good.
Meantime, it seems Sergei Fedorov and Donald Brashear are both still hurt and won't be back tonight (we think).
Alex Ovechkin is one of four Caps who are averaging more than a point per game; no other team has more than two players above a point-per-game pace. Alex Semin (1.35), Ovechkin (1.33), Nicklas Backstrom (1.06) and Mike Green (1.05) all rank among the top 15 NHLers in points per game (minimum 12 GP).
Ovechkin is gunning for his 50th goal this season (which would be his third overall, a Caps record) and the numbers say he's got a good shot. Ovie has 16 career goals against Thrashers goalie Kari Lehtonen, six more than any other netminder; his 23 goals vs. Atlanta are his most vs. any team. (And it doesn't hurt that Ilya Kovalchuk won't play tonight.)
If Semin scores tonight, it will be the second time he's hit the 30-goal plateau, while a Backstrom tally would give him 20 for the first time in his young career. Backstrom's 55 assists ties the total from his rookie year, while Semin is just four points away from tying his career high and nine goals from equalling that tally (both from the 2006-07 season). With 40, he's already surpassed the 35 assists he registered that campaign.
Finally, the Caps can tie a club record for consecutive victories on the road tonight by posting their sixth win in a row away from Verizon Center. That would tie the mark set in 1983-84. The Thrashers are gunning their their sixth-straight win overall, which would tie a franchise record.
For those that care, tonight's Versus crew is Joe Beninati (play-by-play), Darren Eliot (analyst) and Bob Harwood (reporter).
March 13, 2009
Caps Simplify for Huge Win
The Caps are back to form after getting a huge 2-1 win over the Flyers last night. In getting the two points, the Caps did everything that's necessary to emerge victorious in the playoffs: crash the net (aka storm the crease), kill penalties and play aggressively smart. And, of course, it doesn't hurt to have Alex Ovechkin at the top of his game.
Yes, his goal was great and his assist on Brooks Laich's tally was fabulous. But his play of the game was when the reigning MVP rushed back to squash a Flyers' shorthanded opportunity in the third period with the Caps' nursing a one-goal lead. That showed that he's growing as a two-way player and, coupled with his offensive prowess, Ovie is no doubt the best player in the NHL right now.
This shouldn't diminish his offensive output. Ovie's pass to Laich was gorgeous and the fact that Laich was parked in front of the net was a thing of beauty. Laich is the team's best presence in front of the net and he needs to be there as much as possible. Ovechkin's game-winning goal was vintage MVP: get a very brief opening and unleash a furious shot before the goalie knows what hit him.
In a preview of the stretch run earlier in the week, this game was included as one of the three losses the Caps might suffer in their final 15 games. Now that they've changed the ledger, it's time to keep the momentum going and remain in the form that got them to the playoffs at the end of last season. The Caps have returned to that mode -- staying there is pivotal.
Their next test comes tomorrow night when Carolina visits Verizon Center. Interestingly enough, the Hurricanes have passed the Panthers for the moment in the Southeast Division (Florida has two games in hand). The Caps' margin over the 'Canes can swell to 14 if the red, white and blue holds serve tomorrow night.
Yes, his goal was great and his assist on Brooks Laich's tally was fabulous. But his play of the game was when the reigning MVP rushed back to squash a Flyers' shorthanded opportunity in the third period with the Caps' nursing a one-goal lead. That showed that he's growing as a two-way player and, coupled with his offensive prowess, Ovie is no doubt the best player in the NHL right now.
This shouldn't diminish his offensive output. Ovie's pass to Laich was gorgeous and the fact that Laich was parked in front of the net was a thing of beauty. Laich is the team's best presence in front of the net and he needs to be there as much as possible. Ovechkin's game-winning goal was vintage MVP: get a very brief opening and unleash a furious shot before the goalie knows what hit him.
In a preview of the stretch run earlier in the week, this game was included as one of the three losses the Caps might suffer in their final 15 games. Now that they've changed the ledger, it's time to keep the momentum going and remain in the form that got them to the playoffs at the end of last season. The Caps have returned to that mode -- staying there is pivotal.
Their next test comes tomorrow night when Carolina visits Verizon Center. Interestingly enough, the Hurricanes have passed the Panthers for the moment in the Southeast Division (Florida has two games in hand). The Caps' margin over the 'Canes can swell to 14 if the red, white and blue holds serve tomorrow night.
March 12, 2009
New Standings Proposal Makes Sense
There's an ongoing debate about whether the loser of an NHL regular season game should be awarded a point in the standings. One argument is to increase the number of points a team receives for a regulation win, while another is to go back to the old system (before the overtime/shootout loss was created) where losing teams don't receive any points.
The latter clearly is the way to go. In fact, Florida Panthers scout Phil Myre has come up with the following system (as relayed by Bill Clement on today's edition of NHL Live): two points for a win in regulation or overtime; one point for a shootout win; no points for a loss.
This is the best idea yet. Under these proposed rules, the Caps (41-21-6, 88 points) would have 76 points and remain atop the Southeast Division (albeit by a seven-point margin). As a further illustration, here are the adjusted Eastern Conference playoff picture (new points/current points):
The biggest beneficiaries are the Carolina Hurricanes, who leap all the way to fifth in the conference. The New York Rangers, meanwhile, would lose 17 points -- keeping them in ninth but further out of the playoffs. Interestingly enough, the standings order would remain mostly unchanged -- but in a tighter race from fourth to 10th.
However, as Clement pointed out today, teams would try harder in OT to get the win knowing it would benefit them more than under the current structure.
The latter clearly is the way to go. In fact, Florida Panthers scout Phil Myre has come up with the following system (as relayed by Bill Clement on today's edition of NHL Live): two points for a win in regulation or overtime; one point for a shootout win; no points for a loss.
This is the best idea yet. Under these proposed rules, the Caps (41-21-6, 88 points) would have 76 points and remain atop the Southeast Division (albeit by a seven-point margin). As a further illustration, here are the adjusted Eastern Conference playoff picture (new points/current points):
1. Boston Bruins (81/95)
2. N.J. Devils (81/89)
3. Caps (76/88)
4. Flyers (69/82)
5. Hurricanes (69/78)
6. Penguins (66/78)
7. Canadiens (65/79)
8. Panthers (65/77)
9. Rangers (59/76)
10. Sabres (59/73)
2. N.J. Devils (81/89)
3. Caps (76/88)
4. Flyers (69/82)
5. Hurricanes (69/78)
6. Penguins (66/78)
7. Canadiens (65/79)
8. Panthers (65/77)
9. Rangers (59/76)
10. Sabres (59/73)
The biggest beneficiaries are the Carolina Hurricanes, who leap all the way to fifth in the conference. The New York Rangers, meanwhile, would lose 17 points -- keeping them in ninth but further out of the playoffs. Interestingly enough, the standings order would remain mostly unchanged -- but in a tighter race from fourth to 10th.
However, as Clement pointed out today, teams would try harder in OT to get the win knowing it would benefit them more than under the current structure.
Grudge Match in Philly
The Caps visit Wachovia Center tonight for a huge match with the Philadelphia Flyers, which are 2-0-1 in the season series against the Caps -- outscoring the red, white and blue, 12-4, including 8-1 in the third period. This, of course, comes after last spring's heated playoff series won by the Flyers.
The Caps-Flyers season series is the seventh Eastern Conference series that Washington will wrap up this season. The Caps have claimed more points than their opponent in each of the previous six (vs. Boston, Montreal, New Jersey, N.Y. Rangers, Ottawa and Pittsburgh). Overall, the Caps are 33-11-6 against the Eastern Conference this season.
It doesn't look like Donald Brashear will go tonight, meaning Michael Nylander will get a sweater.
Even though the Flyers are known for their toughness, they can score too. In fact, they're the only team in the NHL boasting six 20-goal getters (Jeff Carter, Mike Richards, Simon Gagne, Scott Hartnell, Mike Knuble, Joffrey Lupul). The Caps, meanwhile, boast just three (Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin and Mike Green), but have three others (Nicklas Backstrom's 18, Tomas Fleischmann's 17 and Brooks Laich's 16) getting close.
Both teams also have hot goalies. Martin Biron is 6-2-0 in his last nine appearances in net, posting a 2.11 GAA and .941 save percentage in that span. Meanwhile, Jose Theodore, who held Nashville scoreless for the final 61:30 of Tuesday's game, has a 1.95 goals-against average and a .924 save percentage in the last three games.
Tonight's game is one of only five of the Caps' remaining 14 games that are against teams that would be in the playoffs if the season ended today. The Flyers, with 82 points, have the most points of the Capitals' remaining opponents.
The Caps must build on the momentum gained in Tuesday's win over Nashville, which really was the first time in a long while they started to resemble a playoff team. Last spring's run was magical and the Caps are nearing that form again. Tonight's game might be the toughest one for the rest of the regular season, so the Caps must kick it up another notch against the Flyers.
The Caps-Flyers season series is the seventh Eastern Conference series that Washington will wrap up this season. The Caps have claimed more points than their opponent in each of the previous six (vs. Boston, Montreal, New Jersey, N.Y. Rangers, Ottawa and Pittsburgh). Overall, the Caps are 33-11-6 against the Eastern Conference this season.
It doesn't look like Donald Brashear will go tonight, meaning Michael Nylander will get a sweater.
Even though the Flyers are known for their toughness, they can score too. In fact, they're the only team in the NHL boasting six 20-goal getters (Jeff Carter, Mike Richards, Simon Gagne, Scott Hartnell, Mike Knuble, Joffrey Lupul). The Caps, meanwhile, boast just three (Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin and Mike Green), but have three others (Nicklas Backstrom's 18, Tomas Fleischmann's 17 and Brooks Laich's 16) getting close.
Both teams also have hot goalies. Martin Biron is 6-2-0 in his last nine appearances in net, posting a 2.11 GAA and .941 save percentage in that span. Meanwhile, Jose Theodore, who held Nashville scoreless for the final 61:30 of Tuesday's game, has a 1.95 goals-against average and a .924 save percentage in the last three games.
Tonight's game is one of only five of the Caps' remaining 14 games that are against teams that would be in the playoffs if the season ended today. The Flyers, with 82 points, have the most points of the Capitals' remaining opponents.
The Caps must build on the momentum gained in Tuesday's win over Nashville, which really was the first time in a long while they started to resemble a playoff team. Last spring's run was magical and the Caps are nearing that form again. Tonight's game might be the toughest one for the rest of the regular season, so the Caps must kick it up another notch against the Flyers.
March 11, 2009
Fighting and the Spectrum
On the heels of last night's 2-1 OT win over the Nashville Predators and in preparation for tomorrow's visit to Philadelphia (as well as the current fighting conversation), we relive the following moment courtesy of the sports-a-day calendar on my desk:
There you have the epitome of the Broad Street Bullies. Let's hope that doesn't happen again tomorrow night at the Wachovia Center.
March 11, 1979: A wild melee erupts at the end of the first period at the Spectrum between the Philadelphia Flyers and Los Angeles Kings. As the clubs leave the ice for the first intermission, bad blood spills over when Randy Holt of L.A. resumes an earlier fight with the Flyers' Frank Bathe, Bert Wilson of L.A. picks up an earlier tiff with Flyers defenseman Behn Wilson and Kings winger Steve Jensen squares off with Flyers center Mel Bridgman. The free-for-all results in 290 penalty minutes being assessed by referee Wally Harris, 67 alone given to Randy Holt. There are 10 ejections, 5 to each team. Numerous NHL records are set in the chaotic brawl, but the rest of the game proceeds without further incident. The Flyers win, 6-3.
There you have the epitome of the Broad Street Bullies. Let's hope that doesn't happen again tomorrow night at the Wachovia Center.
March 10, 2009
One More Western Test
The Caps finish up their slate against the Western Conference tonight in Nashville (8 p.m., CSN). And the timing couldn't be better.
Despite still boasting the best home record in the Eastern Conference (25-9-2), the Caps are just 7-8-1 in their last 16 home games. Conversely, the Caps are 10-3-2 in their last 15 road games and 4-0-2 in their last six road games, which is great news with 10 of the final 15 games away from Verizon Center. The Caps are 7-10-0 against the Western Conference this season.
The all-time series between the Caps and Predators is tied, 5-5-1-0, entering the 12th meeting, with Nashville holding a 3-2-1-0 advantage at home. The Caps won last season, 4-2, on March 18 in Nashville, thanks to three first-period goals and a three-point night from Alex Ovechkin.
A hat trick tonight would give Ovie 50 goals on the season. And if that happens, Ovechkin would become the first player in franchise history to record three 50-goal seasons. Teemu Selanne is the only active NHL player to achieve that milestone (1992-93, 1996-97, 1997-98). Dany Heatley, Jarome Iginla, Ilya Kovalchuk, Jeremy Roenick, Joe Sakic, Brendan Shanahan and Keith Tkachuk each have two 50-goal seasons.
Meanwhile, Mike Wise had a touching tribute to the original Caps owner, Abe Pollin, in today's Washington Post that is a must-read. Although Mr. Pollin has been sick for a while, it was startling to see the picture of him looking extremely frail and wheelchair-bound. While he has his critics, without Mr. Pollin, there would be no Washington Capitals or MCI/Verizon Center.
Note: Carolina defeated the New York Rangers last night, 3-0, to move them into second place in the division -- just eight points behind the Caps. The Canes have played one more game than the Caps and two more than the Florida Panthers, who trail them by a point.
Despite still boasting the best home record in the Eastern Conference (25-9-2), the Caps are just 7-8-1 in their last 16 home games. Conversely, the Caps are 10-3-2 in their last 15 road games and 4-0-2 in their last six road games, which is great news with 10 of the final 15 games away from Verizon Center. The Caps are 7-10-0 against the Western Conference this season.
The all-time series between the Caps and Predators is tied, 5-5-1-0, entering the 12th meeting, with Nashville holding a 3-2-1-0 advantage at home. The Caps won last season, 4-2, on March 18 in Nashville, thanks to three first-period goals and a three-point night from Alex Ovechkin.
A hat trick tonight would give Ovie 50 goals on the season. And if that happens, Ovechkin would become the first player in franchise history to record three 50-goal seasons. Teemu Selanne is the only active NHL player to achieve that milestone (1992-93, 1996-97, 1997-98). Dany Heatley, Jarome Iginla, Ilya Kovalchuk, Jeremy Roenick, Joe Sakic, Brendan Shanahan and Keith Tkachuk each have two 50-goal seasons.
Meanwhile, Mike Wise had a touching tribute to the original Caps owner, Abe Pollin, in today's Washington Post that is a must-read. Although Mr. Pollin has been sick for a while, it was startling to see the picture of him looking extremely frail and wheelchair-bound. While he has his critics, without Mr. Pollin, there would be no Washington Capitals or MCI/Verizon Center.
Note: Carolina defeated the New York Rangers last night, 3-0, to move them into second place in the division -- just eight points behind the Caps. The Canes have played one more game than the Caps and two more than the Florida Panthers, who trail them by a point.
March 9, 2009
Coming Attractions: Southeast Stretch Run
In reality, the Caps need to focus on two other teams: the Florida Panthers and Carolina Hurricanes. Yes, it would be nice to finish second in the Eastern Conference (or even first). But all that's needed to guarantee a playoff spot is repeating as Southeast Division champs.
The current situation:
In reality, of course, nobody is going to run the table. If you look at last year's stretch run (starting after a March 9, 2008 home loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins), the Caps captured 22 points to finish with 94 and win the division. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes and Panthers both captured 13 points from that date and missed the playoffs entirely. It's also worth noting that this year's stretch run includes more games than the 2008 version.
Each team's remaining schedule:
Every team can't achieve its max points because of the frequency of the meetings. Additionally, the Caps have the most road games remaining (10) amongst the teams, while the Hurricanes have the toughest schedule (11 opponents who would make the playoffs if the season ended today).
Therefore, using a very complicated projection, here are the final standings (home and road indicate projected record in those games; no OT/shootout predictions made):
Will it work out this way? Only time will tell, but once thing is for sure: it's going to be an exciting few weeks.
The current situation:
| Team | GP | Points | GR | Max Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 67 | 86 | 15 | 116 | |
| Panthers | 66 | 76 | 16 | 108 |
| Hurricanes | 67 | 75 | 15 | 105 |
In reality, of course, nobody is going to run the table. If you look at last year's stretch run (starting after a March 9, 2008 home loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins), the Caps captured 22 points to finish with 94 and win the division. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes and Panthers both captured 13 points from that date and missed the playoffs entirely. It's also worth noting that this year's stretch run includes more games than the 2008 version.
Each team's remaining schedule:
| Team | Home Games | Road Games |
|---|---|---|
| Caps | (Five) Hurricanes, Lightning, Islanders, Sabres and Thrashers | (Ten) Predators, Flyers, Thrashers (twice), Panthers (twice), Lightning (twice), Hurricanes and Maple Leafs |
| Panthers | (Nine) Lightning, Caps (twice), Maple Leafs, Blue Jackets, Hurricanes, Senators, Thrashers and Penguins | (Seven) Penguins, Sabres (twice), Flyers (twice), Stars, Thrashers |
| Hurricanes | (Nine) Rangers (twice), Devils, Islanders (twice), Caps, Senators, Penguins, Sabres | (Six) Chicago, Dallas, Caps, Panthers, Devils (twice) |
Every team can't achieve its max points because of the frequency of the meetings. Additionally, the Caps have the most road games remaining (10) amongst the teams, while the Hurricanes have the toughest schedule (11 opponents who would make the playoffs if the season ended today).
Therefore, using a very complicated projection, here are the final standings (home and road indicate projected record in those games; no OT/shootout predictions made):
| Team | Home | Road | Final Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caps | 5-0 | 7-3 | 110 |
| Panthers | 6-3 | 3-4 | 94 |
| Hurricanes | 5-3 | 0-6 | 85 |
Will it work out this way? Only time will tell, but once thing is for sure: it's going to be an exciting few weeks.
March 8, 2009
Caps-Pens Live
Welcome to Verizon Center, where a raucous split crowd is gearing up for the Caps' chance to sweep the season series for the first time. Alex Ovechkin and Tom Poti are back in the line-up, while Tyler Sloan (emergency recall from Hershey) and Michael Nylander (upper-body injury) are the scratches.
It's time to play the game.
First Period
The Caps had a great first minute but then the Pens started dominating play. They were looking like they did in the playoffs and really took advantage of a Caps team that was just warming up. Because of that, the Pens struck first.
Bill Guerin and Sidney Crosby got a two-on-one (Jeff Schultz) and Crosby converted easily at 4:29. Theodore had no shot at the save. Ovechkin had hit Guerin a few times in the opening minutes.
The Caps then got two power plays but couldn't convert. Alex Semin got a great breakaway but didn't score about being slashed by Brooks Orpik (no penalty was called). The Caps did a better job of maintaining the attack during the entire power play, bucking a trend where they usually don't threaten if they don't strike after the first minute or so. Ovechin's been playing about three-quarters of the extra-man minutes so far and looks back to his old form.
But the Caps struck moments later. Kris Letang tried stalling behind his own net, but Nick Backstrom stole it and fed it to Semin, who deked amazingly and stuff it under the crossbar to tie the game at one. It was one of Semin's prettiest goals ever and continued his hot stretch lately.
After the TV timeout, the fisticuffs started to fly. No true fights but a scrum after a Milan Jurcina hit on Tyler Kennedy sparked some emotions. It also led to some needed glass repairs (there was a basketball doubleheader here yesterday, which is usually the precursor to such repairs).
The ensuing four-on-four led to the Caps' power play (Gonchar got his second penalty of the stanza) but the Caps couldn't convert.
It was a very promising opening period. Both teams got some chances and the intensity certainly was playoff-like. In fact, there was a bit of a scrum at the end of the period, which will lead to a four-on-four start to the second stanza.
After one: Caps 1, Pens 1.
Second Period
The beginning of the middle stanza was a lot more even than the start of the game, with each team getting a few chances but nothing spectacular. Theodore has made some great saves so far today, stoning both Crosby and Evgeni Malkin at different points throughout the game.
More physicality led to yet-another four-on-four, with Malkin and Morrisonn going off this time. (The Caps will take that trade-off any day.) Both teams are putting their all in this game for sure and it's been extremely entertaining and pretty well played to boot. (Even reps from TSN are here to watch.)
But the four-on-four lasted a while three seconds when Backstrom got called for hooking Crosby right off the face-off. And on the ensuing power play, the Pens surged ahead. As Pittsburgh set up, Guerin set up in front of the net, with Poti there too. Guerin was able to distract Theo just as Sergei Gonchar fired it from the point and Theo had no shot to stop it. Letang and Guerin got the assists on the Pens' second goal of the game.
The Caps had a great shot right after that, but Fleury stoned Backstrom and Kozlov to keep the Pens' lead. Schultz and Poti has by far been the Caps' weakest defensive duo so far.
And then Guerin struck again. Crosby passed the puck into the zone to Guerin, who faked Morrisonn out of his jock and beat Theo top shelf for a 3-1 lead by the non-flying birds. Green has been the only decent Caps' defenseman so far today.
Poti, with about two minutes left, was wide open in the shot and hit the post squarly -- spoiling a chance for redemption after a very pedestrian game. The goal went to review but it was not overturned.
The Caps got a power play with 33.5 seconds left, but the Caps only got one shot before the period expired. The Caps are playing better in the latter stages of the period, but they're still down two goals and need to start scoring in order to break the losing streak.
After two: Pens 3, Caps 1.
Third Period
The Caps coaching staff came out about 45 seconds before the players emerged from the locker room. A quick players-only meeting?
The Caps took advantage of the power play and struck quickly. Ovechkin got open in the slot after a nifty pass from Green and brought the Caps within one. The key part of the play came from Brooks Laich, who parked himself in front of the net and did a great job of screening Fleury.
Then, moments later, Laich struck after a beautiful long pass from David Steckel on his own goal line. Laich converted the breakaway for his 16th goal and 38 points, a career high. A loud chant taunting Crosby ensued and the building erupted as the Caps scored just 49 seconds apart.
The Semin-Ovechkin-Backstrom line also was reunited and immediately started torturing Fleury. The only negative to that line is the lack of a body in front of the net, but their skill sometimes trumps that.
The ever-popular "ref, you suck" chant ensued after Malkin (playing on Crosby's line) ran over Theodore without a penalty call. More physicality as the game really is getting even more heated. This is probably the most intense of the teams' four meetings this season.
The Pens got a power play, but the Caps survived thanks to some great saves from Theo and a friendly post. Theo came up moments later when he stoned Malkin during a period of Pens' pressure.
Clearly, the Caps have stepped up in the third period. At this point with the team, it's all mental. If they can keep their heads in the game for 60 minutes, they're virtually unbeatable even with a young defensive corps.
Steckel took a minor for tripping at 13:06. During the break before the power-play started, the refs engaged in some ice repair on the goal line near Theo. The Caps survived an absolute blitz of pressure by the Pens for the first half of the power play but then the Pens iced the puck and the Caps pretty much had possession for the rest of the extra-man advantage.
Following the power play, the Caps resumed being the agressors and then it was time to unleash the fury with 3:26 left in a tie game as Verizon Center got rediculously loud. A sighting of "Crosby Sucks" and "Malkin Sucks" jerseys amongst the gaggle of anti-Penguins paraphanalia.
Ovechin's whiffed on a few shots today, which is unusual for him. The Pens also have iced the puck numerous times in the period. Fedorov, who apparently is suffering from the flu, has looked the worst he's appeared as a Cap.
The Caps had a bunch of opportunities in the last minute, but couldn't crack Fleury. Green apparently got slashed by Kunitz as regulation expiredbut nothing was called.
After regulation: Caps 3, Pens 3.
Overtime
The four-on-four extra session started with Fedorov and Semin, and Feds nearly gave the game away. Malkin and Crosby had a two-on-one against Poti, but the puck skipped over Crosby's stick.
The Caps' best forwards in the OT were Laich and Viktor Kozlov, who got several chances but couldn't convert. Malkin also appeared to hurt his groin or leg at some point, so we'll see if anything comes of that.
After OT: Caps 3, Pens 3.
Shootout
Semin-stoned by Fleury on a weak move
Letang-save by Theodore on a backhand
Kozlov-stopped by Fleury on a non-descript move
Crosby-goal when Theo went down too early
Ovechkin-stopped by Fleury
Final: Pens 4, Caps 3 (SO).
It's time to play the game.
First Period
The Caps had a great first minute but then the Pens started dominating play. They were looking like they did in the playoffs and really took advantage of a Caps team that was just warming up. Because of that, the Pens struck first.
Bill Guerin and Sidney Crosby got a two-on-one (Jeff Schultz) and Crosby converted easily at 4:29. Theodore had no shot at the save. Ovechkin had hit Guerin a few times in the opening minutes.
The Caps then got two power plays but couldn't convert. Alex Semin got a great breakaway but didn't score about being slashed by Brooks Orpik (no penalty was called). The Caps did a better job of maintaining the attack during the entire power play, bucking a trend where they usually don't threaten if they don't strike after the first minute or so. Ovechin's been playing about three-quarters of the extra-man minutes so far and looks back to his old form.
But the Caps struck moments later. Kris Letang tried stalling behind his own net, but Nick Backstrom stole it and fed it to Semin, who deked amazingly and stuff it under the crossbar to tie the game at one. It was one of Semin's prettiest goals ever and continued his hot stretch lately.
After the TV timeout, the fisticuffs started to fly. No true fights but a scrum after a Milan Jurcina hit on Tyler Kennedy sparked some emotions. It also led to some needed glass repairs (there was a basketball doubleheader here yesterday, which is usually the precursor to such repairs).
The ensuing four-on-four led to the Caps' power play (Gonchar got his second penalty of the stanza) but the Caps couldn't convert.
It was a very promising opening period. Both teams got some chances and the intensity certainly was playoff-like. In fact, there was a bit of a scrum at the end of the period, which will lead to a four-on-four start to the second stanza.
After one: Caps 1, Pens 1.
Second Period
The beginning of the middle stanza was a lot more even than the start of the game, with each team getting a few chances but nothing spectacular. Theodore has made some great saves so far today, stoning both Crosby and Evgeni Malkin at different points throughout the game.
More physicality led to yet-another four-on-four, with Malkin and Morrisonn going off this time. (The Caps will take that trade-off any day.) Both teams are putting their all in this game for sure and it's been extremely entertaining and pretty well played to boot. (Even reps from TSN are here to watch.)
But the four-on-four lasted a while three seconds when Backstrom got called for hooking Crosby right off the face-off. And on the ensuing power play, the Pens surged ahead. As Pittsburgh set up, Guerin set up in front of the net, with Poti there too. Guerin was able to distract Theo just as Sergei Gonchar fired it from the point and Theo had no shot to stop it. Letang and Guerin got the assists on the Pens' second goal of the game.
The Caps had a great shot right after that, but Fleury stoned Backstrom and Kozlov to keep the Pens' lead. Schultz and Poti has by far been the Caps' weakest defensive duo so far.
And then Guerin struck again. Crosby passed the puck into the zone to Guerin, who faked Morrisonn out of his jock and beat Theo top shelf for a 3-1 lead by the non-flying birds. Green has been the only decent Caps' defenseman so far today.
Poti, with about two minutes left, was wide open in the shot and hit the post squarly -- spoiling a chance for redemption after a very pedestrian game. The goal went to review but it was not overturned.
The Caps got a power play with 33.5 seconds left, but the Caps only got one shot before the period expired. The Caps are playing better in the latter stages of the period, but they're still down two goals and need to start scoring in order to break the losing streak.
After two: Pens 3, Caps 1.
Third Period
The Caps coaching staff came out about 45 seconds before the players emerged from the locker room. A quick players-only meeting?
The Caps took advantage of the power play and struck quickly. Ovechkin got open in the slot after a nifty pass from Green and brought the Caps within one. The key part of the play came from Brooks Laich, who parked himself in front of the net and did a great job of screening Fleury.
Then, moments later, Laich struck after a beautiful long pass from David Steckel on his own goal line. Laich converted the breakaway for his 16th goal and 38 points, a career high. A loud chant taunting Crosby ensued and the building erupted as the Caps scored just 49 seconds apart.
The Semin-Ovechkin-Backstrom line also was reunited and immediately started torturing Fleury. The only negative to that line is the lack of a body in front of the net, but their skill sometimes trumps that.
The ever-popular "ref, you suck" chant ensued after Malkin (playing on Crosby's line) ran over Theodore without a penalty call. More physicality as the game really is getting even more heated. This is probably the most intense of the teams' four meetings this season.
The Pens got a power play, but the Caps survived thanks to some great saves from Theo and a friendly post. Theo came up moments later when he stoned Malkin during a period of Pens' pressure.
Clearly, the Caps have stepped up in the third period. At this point with the team, it's all mental. If they can keep their heads in the game for 60 minutes, they're virtually unbeatable even with a young defensive corps.
Steckel took a minor for tripping at 13:06. During the break before the power-play started, the refs engaged in some ice repair on the goal line near Theo. The Caps survived an absolute blitz of pressure by the Pens for the first half of the power play but then the Pens iced the puck and the Caps pretty much had possession for the rest of the extra-man advantage.
Following the power play, the Caps resumed being the agressors and then it was time to unleash the fury with 3:26 left in a tie game as Verizon Center got rediculously loud. A sighting of "Crosby Sucks" and "Malkin Sucks" jerseys amongst the gaggle of anti-Penguins paraphanalia.
Ovechin's whiffed on a few shots today, which is unusual for him. The Pens also have iced the puck numerous times in the period. Fedorov, who apparently is suffering from the flu, has looked the worst he's appeared as a Cap.
The Caps had a bunch of opportunities in the last minute, but couldn't crack Fleury. Green apparently got slashed by Kunitz as regulation expiredbut nothing was called.
After regulation: Caps 3, Pens 3.
Overtime
The four-on-four extra session started with Fedorov and Semin, and Feds nearly gave the game away. Malkin and Crosby had a two-on-one against Poti, but the puck skipped over Crosby's stick.
The Caps' best forwards in the OT were Laich and Viktor Kozlov, who got several chances but couldn't convert. Malkin also appeared to hurt his groin or leg at some point, so we'll see if anything comes of that.
After OT: Caps 3, Pens 3.
Shootout
Semin-stoned by Fleury on a weak move
Letang-save by Theodore on a backhand
Kozlov-stopped by Fleury on a non-descript move
Crosby-goal when Theo went down too early
Ovechkin-stopped by Fleury
Final: Pens 4, Caps 3 (SO).
March 6, 2009
All is Not Lost With Cold Stretch
Looking for a silver lining is hard for the Caps right now after the hot stretch they've been on this season. But, to be fair, it's always better to be optimistic -- especially during a grinding 82-game season.
Every team goes through a tough stretch and it's now the Caps' turn. The great ones break out of it in time and turn things around. The mediocre ones (at least some of them) sneak into the playoffs. The bad ones start playing golf in early April.
As proof from the league's top teams (and one other):
* The Boston Bruins, who still boast the top record in the East by six points, are 3-5-2 in their last 10 games (the Caps are 5-5 in that stretch) and started the season 2-2-3. They also lost six of seven in February.
* The New Jersey Devils have suffered through a three-game and four-game losing streak this season.
* The Philadelphia Flyers had a six-game losing streak to start the season, a three-gamer in early November and have lost three of their last four games.
* The Florida Panthers, the Caps' main competition in the Southeast Division, had a six-game losing streak early in the season and a four-gamer in late December.
* The Detroit Red Wings lost five straight in late January.
* The San Jose Sharks, the league's top team, are 5-4-1 in their last 10 (including three straight losses), and lost six of seven in late January/early February.
As a means of comparison, the Caps haven't lost more than three straight all season and actually lost five of seven in late October/early November before picking up points in seven straight (6-0-1) from Nov. 6-19. That five-of-seven streak actually is worse than they're going through right now.
There are 16 games left in the regular season, which means the Caps can still earn 32 points and finish with 117. Granted, that's unlikely, but earning half of those available points gives them 101, a second straight division title and a top-three seed in the Eastern Conference.
Let's remember the close to last season: a loss at home to Pittsburgh (which occurred nearly a year ago this Sunday, when the Caps coincidentally host the Penguins) followed by winning 11 of 12 to close the season.
The Caps don't need that hot of a stretch to make the playoffs this time around, but they might need something similar to regain their winning ways.
Every team goes through a tough stretch and it's now the Caps' turn. The great ones break out of it in time and turn things around. The mediocre ones (at least some of them) sneak into the playoffs. The bad ones start playing golf in early April.
As proof from the league's top teams (and one other):
* The Boston Bruins, who still boast the top record in the East by six points, are 3-5-2 in their last 10 games (the Caps are 5-5 in that stretch) and started the season 2-2-3. They also lost six of seven in February.
* The New Jersey Devils have suffered through a three-game and four-game losing streak this season.
* The Philadelphia Flyers had a six-game losing streak to start the season, a three-gamer in early November and have lost three of their last four games.
* The Florida Panthers, the Caps' main competition in the Southeast Division, had a six-game losing streak early in the season and a four-gamer in late December.
* The Detroit Red Wings lost five straight in late January.
* The San Jose Sharks, the league's top team, are 5-4-1 in their last 10 (including three straight losses), and lost six of seven in late January/early February.
As a means of comparison, the Caps haven't lost more than three straight all season and actually lost five of seven in late October/early November before picking up points in seven straight (6-0-1) from Nov. 6-19. That five-of-seven streak actually is worse than they're going through right now.
There are 16 games left in the regular season, which means the Caps can still earn 32 points and finish with 117. Granted, that's unlikely, but earning half of those available points gives them 101, a second straight division title and a top-three seed in the Eastern Conference.
Let's remember the close to last season: a loss at home to Pittsburgh (which occurred nearly a year ago this Sunday, when the Caps coincidentally host the Penguins) followed by winning 11 of 12 to close the season.
The Caps don't need that hot of a stretch to make the playoffs this time around, but they might need something similar to regain their winning ways.
March 5, 2009
Leafs-Caps Live
Welcome to Verizon Center, where the Caps are taking on the Toronto Maple Leafs. The biggest news is that Alex Ovechkin will not play tonight. He's "day-to-day" with a foot injury, presumably resulting from the puck he took in his foot at practice yesterday.
First Period
The Caps aren't exactly flying around without Ovechkin and look a little too much like they did during their last two losses. However, since the Leafs aren't exactly an offensive juggernaut, the Caps didn't fall behind early (and often).
The first notable event occured at 8:27 when Professor Matt Bradley beat up Benjamin Ondrus in one of the longer and more physical fights of the season.
Then it got interesting. Jason Blake brought the puck along the goal line right at Theodore. He then proceeded to run over Theo and John Mitchell put the puck in the net. However, the zebras got a big cheer when they waived off the tally due to goaltender interference.
Despite a late power play, the Caps couldn't score -- marking the second straight game without a first-period goal.
After one: Caps 0, Leafs 0.
Second Period
The Caps attempted to put forth an inspired period, but it hasn't worked. They're still looking sluggish and not looking like they care much. Sergei Fedorov is playing defense and he's been pretty good but is looking slower and slower as the season progresses.
Case in point was the penalty he took for holding at 12:20 when he clearly was beaten and it wasn't even close. Michael Nylander has looked even more lost than he has earlier in the season.
The Caps' best scoring opportunity came off the stick of Bradley, who was wide open and broke his stick just as he was about to unleash his shot.
The Leafs' Jeff Finger "decorated" the ice with blood after getting inadvertantly high-sticked (no penalty was called). The stain remained there for the rest of the period.
In fact, the most entertaining moment of the period came during a break when the Kiss Cam aired. The cameras found a Leafs fan (jersey and all) holding two beers and sitting alone. The lyrics "I'm so lonely" started playing as the fan was oblivious until somebody pointed it out. He obliged with a polite smile.
This team clearly is too individualistic right now and isn't paying the price to score. They're not crashing the net and not working very hard and it shows.
After two: Caps 0, Leafs 0.
Third Period
The period started with a flurry, including a Alex Semin semi-breakaway that drew a power play. But that lasted a whole three seconds when Semin got called for high-sticking. So much for that.
The Caps kept up the pressure but couldn't crack the net. They had several opportunities, including some fairly-open nets with Martin Gerber out of position, and couldn't hit the twine.
Toronto was the first to get on the board by crashing the net and taking their opportunities. In fact, their goal was scored when Lee Stempniak banked the puck off Theo's leg for a 1-0 lead at 6:05.
The Caps kept applying the pressure but always seemed a bit off and certainly aren't playing like a first-place club that is winning its division by 11 points. The Leafs are playing for pride and certainly seem to be showing it tonight.
Case in point is their second goal, which started when Mitchell circled behind the net and found a wide-open Pavel Kubina, who slapped it past an out-of-position Theodore for a two-goal Toronto lead.
It's time to unleash the fury and the Caps better throw everything in their arsenal at the Leafs. No cute passes, no staying on the perimeter. Shoot, crash the net, get an ugly goal (or two) and win this game.
The Leafs nearly made it 3-0 but hit the post and Theo managed to cover it up before any further damage could be done. Timeout Caps with 7:28 left.
Interesting move: Michal Neuvirth came in with two minutes left in the game. But he then left moments later for an extra attacker.
The Caps finally cracked the twine with 38.6 seconds left when Semin got the puck from Backstom off a face-off and beat Gerber to make it 2-1.
But that was that. This is a game that Semin, Tomas Fleischmann and others could have used to showcase their talents and carry the Caps. But they didn't and it seems that they were happy trying (and failing) to make the perfect play. Yes, they scored late, but if they had played with the passion they did in the third period during the entire game they could have won.
This continues a very disturbing trend that is beyond befuddling. Not sure how it'll be fixed, but it needs to be corrected if this team has any hopes of righting the ship.
Final: Leafs 2, Caps 1.
First Period
The Caps aren't exactly flying around without Ovechkin and look a little too much like they did during their last two losses. However, since the Leafs aren't exactly an offensive juggernaut, the Caps didn't fall behind early (and often).
The first notable event occured at 8:27 when Professor Matt Bradley beat up Benjamin Ondrus in one of the longer and more physical fights of the season.
Then it got interesting. Jason Blake brought the puck along the goal line right at Theodore. He then proceeded to run over Theo and John Mitchell put the puck in the net. However, the zebras got a big cheer when they waived off the tally due to goaltender interference.
Despite a late power play, the Caps couldn't score -- marking the second straight game without a first-period goal.
After one: Caps 0, Leafs 0.
Second Period
The Caps attempted to put forth an inspired period, but it hasn't worked. They're still looking sluggish and not looking like they care much. Sergei Fedorov is playing defense and he's been pretty good but is looking slower and slower as the season progresses.
Case in point was the penalty he took for holding at 12:20 when he clearly was beaten and it wasn't even close. Michael Nylander has looked even more lost than he has earlier in the season.
The Caps' best scoring opportunity came off the stick of Bradley, who was wide open and broke his stick just as he was about to unleash his shot.
The Leafs' Jeff Finger "decorated" the ice with blood after getting inadvertantly high-sticked (no penalty was called). The stain remained there for the rest of the period.
In fact, the most entertaining moment of the period came during a break when the Kiss Cam aired. The cameras found a Leafs fan (jersey and all) holding two beers and sitting alone. The lyrics "I'm so lonely" started playing as the fan was oblivious until somebody pointed it out. He obliged with a polite smile.
This team clearly is too individualistic right now and isn't paying the price to score. They're not crashing the net and not working very hard and it shows.
After two: Caps 0, Leafs 0.
Third Period
The period started with a flurry, including a Alex Semin semi-breakaway that drew a power play. But that lasted a whole three seconds when Semin got called for high-sticking. So much for that.
The Caps kept up the pressure but couldn't crack the net. They had several opportunities, including some fairly-open nets with Martin Gerber out of position, and couldn't hit the twine.
Toronto was the first to get on the board by crashing the net and taking their opportunities. In fact, their goal was scored when Lee Stempniak banked the puck off Theo's leg for a 1-0 lead at 6:05.
The Caps kept applying the pressure but always seemed a bit off and certainly aren't playing like a first-place club that is winning its division by 11 points. The Leafs are playing for pride and certainly seem to be showing it tonight.
Case in point is their second goal, which started when Mitchell circled behind the net and found a wide-open Pavel Kubina, who slapped it past an out-of-position Theodore for a two-goal Toronto lead.
It's time to unleash the fury and the Caps better throw everything in their arsenal at the Leafs. No cute passes, no staying on the perimeter. Shoot, crash the net, get an ugly goal (or two) and win this game.
The Leafs nearly made it 3-0 but hit the post and Theo managed to cover it up before any further damage could be done. Timeout Caps with 7:28 left.
Interesting move: Michal Neuvirth came in with two minutes left in the game. But he then left moments later for an extra attacker.
The Caps finally cracked the twine with 38.6 seconds left when Semin got the puck from Backstom off a face-off and beat Gerber to make it 2-1.
But that was that. This is a game that Semin, Tomas Fleischmann and others could have used to showcase their talents and carry the Caps. But they didn't and it seems that they were happy trying (and failing) to make the perfect play. Yes, they scored late, but if they had played with the passion they did in the third period during the entire game they could have won.
This continues a very disturbing trend that is beyond befuddling. Not sure how it'll be fixed, but it needs to be corrected if this team has any hopes of righting the ship.
Final: Leafs 2, Caps 1.
Leafs Visit Post-Deadline
Although Jay Bouwmeester won't be donning a Caps jersey tonight, that remains a possibility on July 1. In the meantime, the red, white and blue host Olie Kolzig Martin Gerber and the Toronto Maple Leafs tonight at Verizon Center.
This marks the third of four meetings between Washington and Toronto in 2008-09, the 113th all-time. Washington leads the all-time series, 53-48-10-1, including a 33-19-4-1 record at home. The Caps have won this season's two previous meetings.
The Caps, of course, have lost their last two games -- to divisional rivals Florida (6-2) and Carolina (5-2) -- but seemingly should have their head on straight tonight with the trading deadline passed.
Alexander Semin has goals in four straight games, one game shy of his best career goal-scoring streak, and has 11 points in the last six games (five goals, six assists). Four of those goals have come on the power play after he scored just one power-play goal in his first 40 games of the season. That follows a similar pattern to last season, when he scored eight of his 10 power-play goals after Feb. 15.
Mike Green (the cover boy of the upcoming Hockey News) has matched his point total from last season and will establish a new career high with his next point. Green shares the NHL lead with 16 power-play goals, which matches Scott Stevens' club record for a defenseman. No defenseman has led the NHL in power-play goals for a season in the league's modern era (since 1943-44, when the center-ice red line was introduced).
This marks the third of four meetings between Washington and Toronto in 2008-09, the 113th all-time. Washington leads the all-time series, 53-48-10-1, including a 33-19-4-1 record at home. The Caps have won this season's two previous meetings.
The Caps, of course, have lost their last two games -- to divisional rivals Florida (6-2) and Carolina (5-2) -- but seemingly should have their head on straight tonight with the trading deadline passed.
Alexander Semin has goals in four straight games, one game shy of his best career goal-scoring streak, and has 11 points in the last six games (five goals, six assists). Four of those goals have come on the power play after he scored just one power-play goal in his first 40 games of the season. That follows a similar pattern to last season, when he scored eight of his 10 power-play goals after Feb. 15.
Mike Green (the cover boy of the upcoming Hockey News) has matched his point total from last season and will establish a new career high with his next point. Green shares the NHL lead with 16 power-play goals, which matches Scott Stevens' club record for a defenseman. No defenseman has led the NHL in power-play goals for a season in the league's modern era (since 1943-44, when the center-ice red line was introduced).
March 4, 2009
Pothier to Hershey, Kolzig to Toronto
After GM George McPhee stopped by the Caps Report, he met the media and discussed a few issues including the sending of Brian Pothier and Staffan Kronwall to Hershey.
"He's got a conditional clearance to play on a progression," McPhee said of Pothier. "If he gets through that and there are no symptoms, we'll bring him up here and see what he can do. If he doesn't get through that, he's probably done. If there are symptoms then his career is over."
Meanwhile, former Cap Olie Kolzig was traded by Tampa today to Toronto. No, he's not suiting up for the Leafs tomorrow night at Verizon Center -- or at all, for that matter. For those that forgot, Kolzig is likely out for the year and might have played his last game ever during his brilliant career. (Although he would reunite with Ron Wilson if he ever does play for the Leafs.)
Today's Lightning-Leafs trade was a blatant salary dump by Tampa.
"He's got a conditional clearance to play on a progression," McPhee said of Pothier. "If he gets through that and there are no symptoms, we'll bring him up here and see what he can do. If he doesn't get through that, he's probably done. If there are symptoms then his career is over."
Meanwhile, former Cap Olie Kolzig was traded by Tampa today to Toronto. No, he's not suiting up for the Leafs tomorrow night at Verizon Center -- or at all, for that matter. For those that forgot, Kolzig is likely out for the year and might have played his last game ever during his brilliant career. (Although he would reunite with Ron Wilson if he ever does play for the Leafs.)
Today's Lightning-Leafs trade was a blatant salary dump by Tampa.
McPhee: 'No Obvious Upgrade' Available
After the Caps stood pat at the trading deadline, GM George McPhee went on the "Caps Report Trade Deadline Special" and spoke about his experiences over the last three days. He said there was "no obvious upgrade" available and that he (thankfully) had no interest in trading Karl Alzner, Simeon Varlamov and John Carlson. All of those players, McPhee said, could be on the Caps' roster as early as next season.
McPhee alluded that the only upgrades he was seeking were Jay Bouwmeester and Chris Pronger, neither of whom were traded anywhere.
In fact, he said that Alzner should return to the Caps' roster soon and that Brian Pothier will be headed Hershey for three-to-five games to see if he's back in game shape. McPhee added that Pothier only affects the salary cap if he's on the NHL roster.
He also added that they will not hesitate to continue calling up players from Hershey to fill in for any injured Caps but (obviously) hopes to avoid the rash from November.
GMGM also said that he feels the Caps are Stanley Cup contenders this year and expects that trend to continue for at least the next three-to-four years. As for the goalie situation, Varlamov should be back for Hershey this week and Brent Johnson might be back for the playoffs, if not before.
The show is expected to be archived and put on the Caps' Web site.
McPhee alluded that the only upgrades he was seeking were Jay Bouwmeester and Chris Pronger, neither of whom were traded anywhere.
In fact, he said that Alzner should return to the Caps' roster soon and that Brian Pothier will be headed Hershey for three-to-five games to see if he's back in game shape. McPhee added that Pothier only affects the salary cap if he's on the NHL roster.
He also added that they will not hesitate to continue calling up players from Hershey to fill in for any injured Caps but (obviously) hopes to avoid the rash from November.
GMGM also said that he feels the Caps are Stanley Cup contenders this year and expects that trend to continue for at least the next three-to-four years. As for the goalie situation, Varlamov should be back for Hershey this week and Brent Johnson might be back for the playoffs, if not before.
The show is expected to be archived and put on the Caps' Web site.
Boudreau Addresses Leadership, Celebrations
As we wait for the Caps to make a move (if they're going to do that), two quotes from Coach Bruce Boudreau struck a nerve -- especially with leadership apparently an issue for the team.
"There are a lot of individuals making a lot of mistakes," Boudreau said. "And short of sitting them out -- I don't know if we're at the stage yet -- it's bringing them in, showing them, talking to them in front of the [other] players. When you try to do it individually, good things don't happen. Teams win games. Teams win championships. Individuals don't."
About the celebration at the end of the game, which I addressed during my live coverage.
"I was really disgusted when we scored our second goal and we were all excited about it," Boudreau said. "I turned to [assistant coach] Dean [Evason] and said, 'What are we doing?' We just made it 5-2 and we're jumping on each other like we won an overtime game. It was pretty embarrassing. If I was on the Carolina bench, I would have been going, 'Look at these idiots.' "
Not sure how Boudreau and GM George McPhee is going to address these issues, but it seems Sergei Fedorov isn't addressing the team.
"Right now I don't think I need to say a lot. I think it's more like on an individual level. It starts with the little things no doubt," he said. "You have to start with preparations and do the little things in the game and then gain confidence from those things; then team play comes in place. That's when we have to be strong."
This is certainly part of the team growing and maturing, but it's the latest sign that they might not be ready to go deep into the playoffs. Before the season, I picked them to lose in the second round and they seem destined for that fate -- assuming they can eliminate a lesser team, which has been a problem lately.
By the way, the Caps recorded 41 shots on goal last night, the eighth time they have recorded 40 or more shots in a game. They are now 4-5-0 when recording 40 or more shots. Interesting that a team that prides itself on lots of shots has a losing record when breaking the 40-shot barrier. This is something to monitor as well.
"There are a lot of individuals making a lot of mistakes," Boudreau said. "And short of sitting them out -- I don't know if we're at the stage yet -- it's bringing them in, showing them, talking to them in front of the [other] players. When you try to do it individually, good things don't happen. Teams win games. Teams win championships. Individuals don't."
About the celebration at the end of the game, which I addressed during my live coverage.
"I was really disgusted when we scored our second goal and we were all excited about it," Boudreau said. "I turned to [assistant coach] Dean [Evason] and said, 'What are we doing?' We just made it 5-2 and we're jumping on each other like we won an overtime game. It was pretty embarrassing. If I was on the Carolina bench, I would have been going, 'Look at these idiots.' "
Not sure how Boudreau and GM George McPhee is going to address these issues, but it seems Sergei Fedorov isn't addressing the team.
"Right now I don't think I need to say a lot. I think it's more like on an individual level. It starts with the little things no doubt," he said. "You have to start with preparations and do the little things in the game and then gain confidence from those things; then team play comes in place. That's when we have to be strong."
This is certainly part of the team growing and maturing, but it's the latest sign that they might not be ready to go deep into the playoffs. Before the season, I picked them to lose in the second round and they seem destined for that fate -- assuming they can eliminate a lesser team, which has been a problem lately.
By the way, the Caps recorded 41 shots on goal last night, the eighth time they have recorded 40 or more shots in a game. They are now 4-5-0 when recording 40 or more shots. Interesting that a team that prides itself on lots of shots has a losing record when breaking the 40-shot barrier. This is something to monitor as well.
March 3, 2009
Capitals-Canes Live
Welcome to the final game at Verizon Center before the trading deadline, where something seems off. Despite reports to the contrary this morning, Tom Poti and Michael Nylander are the healthy scratches and Michal Neuvirth is in net. Poti came out for the pre-game skate but was pulled in favor of John Erskine. Very interesting.
First Period
Both teams started extremely sluggishly. It was almost a flashback to the elder days of the rivalry, when neither team had much talent or hopes for anything resembling a playoff spot. There were only three shots at the 11:30 mark for first TV timeout. The only legit opportunity was when Alex Semin missed a wide-open net.
From there, the action picked up. Alex Semin had a great shot with a slapper but was stopped. Dave Steckel tried making an extra pass instead of just shooting and the teams exchanged empty power plays.
Neuvirth has been spectacular so far, making some very impressive saves. There are rumors that Theodore has the flu (or he may just be very tired) but, so far, Neuvirth has been very very good.
The crowd isn't as lively as usual and it doesn't appear to be a sell out (yet). The crowd, like the action, got more intense as the period progressed. However, the Caps' added liveliness didn't result in anything too special.
But, for the second straight game, the Caps did allow a penalty shot. The play started when Eric Staal got open and Shaone Morrisonn (slow-footed and all) along with Mike Green chased him down. Mo dove and swatted his stick at Staal's feet, tripping the Canes' assistant captain -- sending him and the puck into Neuvirth as the net became dislodged. The refs ruled that the puck did not cross the line before the net came off so the penalty shot was awarded.
Staal scored easily for the only tally of the opening period. First-period goal scoring streak over for the Caps.
After one: Canes 1, Caps 0.
Second Period
The Caps came out pretty much as they left off in the first period. And their sluggishness led to another goal against. On the power play, Carolina's Matt Cullen stole the puck, juked around Alex Ovechkin and broke in alone on Neuvirth and scored easily to make it 2-0 for the visitors.
The Caps got another power play at 7:10 when Rod Brind'Amour got called for tripping. But Carolina took advantage yet again. Patrick Eaves got the puck in the offensive zone, victimized Nicklas Backstrom and beat Neuvirth top shelf to give the visitors a commanding 3-0 lead. This is looking all too familiar from Sunday's debacle.
After Eaves scored, Boudreau had a dumbfounded look on his face.
And it only got worse. After nine more listless minutes, the Canes scored again. Ray Whitney charged into the crease, warding off several defenders. Neuvirth stopped the initial shot but Chad LaRose was right there to poke in the rebound.
Only about 90 seconds later later, Eaves scored his second of the night on the power play to added salt to the (very ugly) wound.
In the closing seconds, the Caps finally got on the scoreboard. On the power play, Semin got the puck from Ovechkin in the faceoff circle and, from his knees, unleashed a wicked wrister past Ward for his 100th career goal.
The Caps are saying that Poti's absence is due to a groin injury. No word on whether that's an actual injury or something fabricated. But it is the Caps' story and they're sticking to it.
After two: Canes 5, Caps 1.
Third Period
The Caps don't seem to have any urgency at all. In fact, Brooks Laich took his second penalty of the game, an anomaly for somebody who had all of 25 PIMs heading into the game.
On one shift at the 12-minute mark, Michael Ryan nearly scored for Carolina but just missed top shelf. That was followed by a play that resulted with Eaves and Erskine tangling in the Caps' net (with Neuvirth trying to avoid contact). Nothing ensued but it was about as exciting as it gets during this game.
Carolina (curiously) took a timeout at about the halfway mark of the period with a 5-1 lead. Hmmm.
The Caps really are just skating around right now. It's a virtual replay of the third period from Sunday's loss to Florida. They're showing no urgency and taking chances as they come instead of trying to create new ones. Also a repeat of the Florida game, Sergei Fedorov is on defense as John Erskine and Milan Jurcina have sat.
Staffan Kronwall has been about as good as everybody else today, which isn't saying much.
Also a repeat of Sunday: a meaningless late goal by the Caps -- this time off the stick of Fedorov, who unleashed a great slapper from the slot after getting a great feed from Semin along the goal line. But Green then went to the box for hooking and that was the end of that. The Caps' celebration seemed inappropriate considering the circumstances under which it was scored.
Neuvirth was pulled in the last seconds but it didn't matter. The Caps even got a power play with 4.1 seconds left, but like the points on "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" it didn't matter.
The sellout streak is over: tonight's attendance is 17,903.
Final: Canes 5, Caps 2
Postgame Thoughts
Despite the late second-period goal, the Caps clearly did not learn their lesson from Sunday's loss. They're very sluggish, not looking particularly interested and certainly are being outworked and outclassed by a team that wouldn't make the playoffs if the season ended today. The Caps have the good fortune of boasting an easy schedule for the rest of the way -- they need to bury these lesser teams, not make them look like Cup contenders.
Whether it's a case of being too big for their britches, having big heads or a huge case of immaturity, this is a situation that need repair. Yes, they were an outshot shot to make the Cup finals and yes these last two games will not doom their season, but these things are very bad for a team with huge hopes for this season.
This could be due to a constant changing of lines, lingering (unreported) injuries or something else, but it's a trend that needs to go away pronto.
First Period
Both teams started extremely sluggishly. It was almost a flashback to the elder days of the rivalry, when neither team had much talent or hopes for anything resembling a playoff spot. There were only three shots at the 11:30 mark for first TV timeout. The only legit opportunity was when Alex Semin missed a wide-open net.
From there, the action picked up. Alex Semin had a great shot with a slapper but was stopped. Dave Steckel tried making an extra pass instead of just shooting and the teams exchanged empty power plays.
Neuvirth has been spectacular so far, making some very impressive saves. There are rumors that Theodore has the flu (or he may just be very tired) but, so far, Neuvirth has been very very good.
The crowd isn't as lively as usual and it doesn't appear to be a sell out (yet). The crowd, like the action, got more intense as the period progressed. However, the Caps' added liveliness didn't result in anything too special.
But, for the second straight game, the Caps did allow a penalty shot. The play started when Eric Staal got open and Shaone Morrisonn (slow-footed and all) along with Mike Green chased him down. Mo dove and swatted his stick at Staal's feet, tripping the Canes' assistant captain -- sending him and the puck into Neuvirth as the net became dislodged. The refs ruled that the puck did not cross the line before the net came off so the penalty shot was awarded.
Staal scored easily for the only tally of the opening period. First-period goal scoring streak over for the Caps.
After one: Canes 1, Caps 0.
Second Period
The Caps came out pretty much as they left off in the first period. And their sluggishness led to another goal against. On the power play, Carolina's Matt Cullen stole the puck, juked around Alex Ovechkin and broke in alone on Neuvirth and scored easily to make it 2-0 for the visitors.
The Caps got another power play at 7:10 when Rod Brind'Amour got called for tripping. But Carolina took advantage yet again. Patrick Eaves got the puck in the offensive zone, victimized Nicklas Backstrom and beat Neuvirth top shelf to give the visitors a commanding 3-0 lead. This is looking all too familiar from Sunday's debacle.
After Eaves scored, Boudreau had a dumbfounded look on his face.
And it only got worse. After nine more listless minutes, the Canes scored again. Ray Whitney charged into the crease, warding off several defenders. Neuvirth stopped the initial shot but Chad LaRose was right there to poke in the rebound.
Only about 90 seconds later later, Eaves scored his second of the night on the power play to added salt to the (very ugly) wound.
In the closing seconds, the Caps finally got on the scoreboard. On the power play, Semin got the puck from Ovechkin in the faceoff circle and, from his knees, unleashed a wicked wrister past Ward for his 100th career goal.
The Caps are saying that Poti's absence is due to a groin injury. No word on whether that's an actual injury or something fabricated. But it is the Caps' story and they're sticking to it.
After two: Canes 5, Caps 1.
Third Period
The Caps don't seem to have any urgency at all. In fact, Brooks Laich took his second penalty of the game, an anomaly for somebody who had all of 25 PIMs heading into the game.
On one shift at the 12-minute mark, Michael Ryan nearly scored for Carolina but just missed top shelf. That was followed by a play that resulted with Eaves and Erskine tangling in the Caps' net (with Neuvirth trying to avoid contact). Nothing ensued but it was about as exciting as it gets during this game.
Carolina (curiously) took a timeout at about the halfway mark of the period with a 5-1 lead. Hmmm.
The Caps really are just skating around right now. It's a virtual replay of the third period from Sunday's loss to Florida. They're showing no urgency and taking chances as they come instead of trying to create new ones. Also a repeat of the Florida game, Sergei Fedorov is on defense as John Erskine and Milan Jurcina have sat.
Staffan Kronwall has been about as good as everybody else today, which isn't saying much.
Also a repeat of Sunday: a meaningless late goal by the Caps -- this time off the stick of Fedorov, who unleashed a great slapper from the slot after getting a great feed from Semin along the goal line. But Green then went to the box for hooking and that was the end of that. The Caps' celebration seemed inappropriate considering the circumstances under which it was scored.
Neuvirth was pulled in the last seconds but it didn't matter. The Caps even got a power play with 4.1 seconds left, but like the points on "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" it didn't matter.
The sellout streak is over: tonight's attendance is 17,903.
Final: Canes 5, Caps 2
Postgame Thoughts
Despite the late second-period goal, the Caps clearly did not learn their lesson from Sunday's loss. They're very sluggish, not looking particularly interested and certainly are being outworked and outclassed by a team that wouldn't make the playoffs if the season ended today. The Caps have the good fortune of boasting an easy schedule for the rest of the way -- they need to bury these lesser teams, not make them look like Cup contenders.
Whether it's a case of being too big for their britches, having big heads or a huge case of immaturity, this is a situation that need repair. Yes, they were an outshot shot to make the Cup finals and yes these last two games will not doom their season, but these things are very bad for a team with huge hopes for this season.
This could be due to a constant changing of lines, lingering (unreported) injuries or something else, but it's a trend that needs to go away pronto.
Noon Notes
Tarik just posted an update from the morning skate and Michael Nylander will be scratched again tonight. Tarik's suspecting (as I did earlier today) this is part of an effort to get him to waive his no-trade clause. Viktor Kozlov and Staffan Kronwall will play tonight and Erskine will join Nylander on the healthy scratch list.
Jose Theodore will start in goal with these lines in front of him (or so we think):
Ovechkin-Backstrom-Kozlov
Fleischmann-Fedorov-Semin
Laich-Steckel-Fehr
Brashear-Gordon-Bradley
Meanwhile, it seems Niklas Backstrom has signed a four-year, $24 million deal to remain with the Minnesota Wild and thus off the market.
Jose Theodore will start in goal with these lines in front of him (or so we think):
Ovechkin-Backstrom-Kozlov
Fleischmann-Fedorov-Semin
Laich-Steckel-Fehr
Brashear-Gordon-Bradley
Meanwhile, it seems Niklas Backstrom has signed a four-year, $24 million deal to remain with the Minnesota Wild and thus off the market.
For Caps, a Hurricane Brewing
The Carolina Hurricanes are in town tonight for the last game before the NHL's trading deadline. That means not only will Caps' fans/players/staff be focusing on the divisional rival, but also on the activities of GM George McPhee.
First, the game. The Caps' top priority is still eliminating penalties and that must change regardless of the opponent. This is not a news flash.
The Caps have taken two of the three meetings with the 'Canes so far this season and have three more this season (and this month). The teams have met 122 previous times (some when the 'Canes were in Hartford). The Caps hold a 65-41-14-3 advantage in the series, 36-19-4-1 at home.
The trades: Perhaps more interesting than the game itself, the Caps seemingly have their eye on several players but one fact is undeniable: any player joining the Caps will correspond to somebody with an NHL contract leaving. That could include players on Hershey or elsewhere, but no players will be acquired just for picks.
That being said, Michael Nylander still is at the center of it all. Could he be urged to waive his no-trade clause with the promise that he won't play again this season if he doesn't? Have things gotten that desperate?
As for actual rumors, players include Derek Morris, Bill Guerin, Olli Jokinen (who killed the Caps when he was in Florida) and maybe even Marian Gaborik. A while back, I also focused on Ales Kotalik, Nik Antropov and Filip Kuba.
The only person who truly knows everything is McPhee and he'll be quiet until he has something to announce. For now, we have to wait and watch.
First, the game. The Caps' top priority is still eliminating penalties and that must change regardless of the opponent. This is not a news flash.
The Caps have taken two of the three meetings with the 'Canes so far this season and have three more this season (and this month). The teams have met 122 previous times (some when the 'Canes were in Hartford). The Caps hold a 65-41-14-3 advantage in the series, 36-19-4-1 at home.
The trades: Perhaps more interesting than the game itself, the Caps seemingly have their eye on several players but one fact is undeniable: any player joining the Caps will correspond to somebody with an NHL contract leaving. That could include players on Hershey or elsewhere, but no players will be acquired just for picks.
That being said, Michael Nylander still is at the center of it all. Could he be urged to waive his no-trade clause with the promise that he won't play again this season if he doesn't? Have things gotten that desperate?
As for actual rumors, players include Derek Morris, Bill Guerin, Olli Jokinen (who killed the Caps when he was in Florida) and maybe even Marian Gaborik. A while back, I also focused on Ales Kotalik, Nik Antropov and Filip Kuba.
The only person who truly knows everything is McPhee and he'll be quiet until he has something to announce. For now, we have to wait and watch.
March 2, 2009
For Third Time, Green a Star
For the third time this season, Mike Green is one of the NHL's Stars of the Week/Month. This time, he's the second star for the month of February after racking up 20 points (nine goals, 11 assists) in 13 games -- tops among blueliners and second in the entire league.
Thrashers' captain Ilya Kovalchuk (13 goals) was the first star and Blues goaltender Chris Mason (1.64 GAA) was the third honoree.
Thrashers' captain Ilya Kovalchuk (13 goals) was the first star and Blues goaltender Chris Mason (1.64 GAA) was the third honoree.
Is There a Leadership Problem?
Although the responses probably were generated by an enterprising reporter, what was said about leadership after yesterday's 6-2 loss to the Florida Panthers was certainly noteworthy.
As has been discussed before, something is missing with this team. It's certainly not talent (except maybe defensively), but maybe veteran leadership (the right guys) is what is needed to take this team to the next level. Usually that comes from bringing leadership players into the fold. Yes, Chris Clark is hurt. But he's still captain and presumably around to help.
If Ovechkin or another current player wants to state their case for taking that role (should Clark be out for a while and/or not be captain much longer), they need to assert themselves. People often describe the Caps as Ovechkin's team, but being a leader and helping a team avoid debacles like yesterday's is a big responsibility that usually comes with age and service in the NHL.
It probably won't happen this week (which isn't a shocker), but this upcoming off-season is going to be huge considering which players' contracts will need to be addressed: Viktor Kozlov (UFA), Sergei Fedorov (UFA), Alex Semin (one more year before RFA), Nicklas Backstrom (ditto), Tomas Fleischmann (ditto), Michael Nylander (need to get out of bad deal), Boyd Gordon (RFA), Eric Fehr (RFA), Shaone Morrisonn (RFA), Milan Jurcina (RFA), Jeff Schultz (RFA), John Erskine (bad contract) and Brent Johnson (UFA).
There's time to take care of those issues after the season, but they will have an impact on who GM George McPhee targets this week -- and who will provide leadership and direction for a team that may need it more than we realize.
Donald Brashear: "There are some guys saying things. We have trust in the guys we're playing with. It's a game of mistakes. We know everybody is trying to do the right thing. Sometimes some people need a little push in the behind but we feel the group is dedicated."
Bruce Boudreau: "As a coach you'd like to see that [people step up and take charge]. We were just discussing that, as coaches, in there. You know it's tough for the coach to come in there everyday and yell when we're not doing well. Someone's got to take initiative in the room and you know maybe it's not the time to do it, maybe it was, we haven't had a stretch where it had been the time. We did just come off a big win, but still, this isn't a trend that I think is a good trend, if it continues at all."
Bruce Boudreau: "As a coach you'd like to see that [people step up and take charge]. We were just discussing that, as coaches, in there. You know it's tough for the coach to come in there everyday and yell when we're not doing well. Someone's got to take initiative in the room and you know maybe it's not the time to do it, maybe it was, we haven't had a stretch where it had been the time. We did just come off a big win, but still, this isn't a trend that I think is a good trend, if it continues at all."
As has been discussed before, something is missing with this team. It's certainly not talent (except maybe defensively), but maybe veteran leadership (the right guys) is what is needed to take this team to the next level. Usually that comes from bringing leadership players into the fold. Yes, Chris Clark is hurt. But he's still captain and presumably around to help.
If Ovechkin or another current player wants to state their case for taking that role (should Clark be out for a while and/or not be captain much longer), they need to assert themselves. People often describe the Caps as Ovechkin's team, but being a leader and helping a team avoid debacles like yesterday's is a big responsibility that usually comes with age and service in the NHL.
It probably won't happen this week (which isn't a shocker), but this upcoming off-season is going to be huge considering which players' contracts will need to be addressed: Viktor Kozlov (UFA), Sergei Fedorov (UFA), Alex Semin (one more year before RFA), Nicklas Backstrom (ditto), Tomas Fleischmann (ditto), Michael Nylander (need to get out of bad deal), Boyd Gordon (RFA), Eric Fehr (RFA), Shaone Morrisonn (RFA), Milan Jurcina (RFA), Jeff Schultz (RFA), John Erskine (bad contract) and Brent Johnson (UFA).
There's time to take care of those issues after the season, but they will have an impact on who GM George McPhee targets this week -- and who will provide leadership and direction for a team that may need it more than we realize.
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