Just sweet and to the point for four series that will be anything but.
Eastern Conference
Boston Bruins over Carolina Hurricanes in five: Coming off an impressive elimination of the New Jersey Devils, the 'Canes are flying high. But the Devils will seem like the inept New York Islanders when Carolina has to face the Bruins. Boston is the best team in the East and is as deep as it is skilled. Their offense is relentless, their defense stout as the neighborhood beer and their goaltending impeccable. It won't be easy but it won't be a long series either.
Caps over Pittsburgh Penguins in six: A complete series preview will appear tomorrow.
Western Conference
Detroit Red Wings over Anaheim Ducks in seven: It's not often you get a match-up of the last two Stanley Cup champions in the playoffs, let alone in the second round. The Red Wings have continued their championship form, with even Chris Osgood waking up for the postseason in a first-round sweep of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Nobody takes the Wings lightly and for good reason: four Cups in the last 12 years. The Ducks impressed in a six-game disposal of the flaky San Jose Sharks and are looking like contenders again. But in a match against the powerful Wings, there will be no fowl upset.
Chicago Blackhawks over Vancouver Canucks in six: It's a breakout year for the 'Hawks. Led by a combination of young and old, the 'Hawks are back and looked fantastic in eliminating the Calgary Flames. Vancouver, meanwhile, swept the St. Louis Blues faster than you can photograph the arch and are lead by uber-goalie Robert Luongo. The Canucks have some offensive firepower too, but not enough to get by the rising 'Hawks.
April 30, 2009
April 29, 2009
Ovie Officially a Hart Finalist
To the surprise of nobody, Alex Ovechkin is one of three finalists for the Hart Trophy for league MVP. The other two finalists are Evgeni Malkin of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings center Pavel Datsyuk. Malkin lost out to Ovechkin last season and let's hope history repeats itself.
Ovechkin (56 goals, 54 assists) is bidding to become the first repeat Hart winner since Dominik Hasek led the Red Wings to the Stanley Cup in 1997-98. Ovechkin's also hoping to become the first forward to repeat as the Hart winner since Wayne Gretzky led the Edmonton Oilers to the Stanley Cup in 1984-85. He already captured his second straight Rocket Richard Trophy for leading the league in goals scored.
Datsyuk (32 goals, 65 assists) also is up for his second-straight Frank J. Selke Trophy as the best defensive forward and fourth-straight Lady Byng Trophy as the player who combines the best performance with sportsmanship.
Malkin captured the Art Ross Trophy by leading the NHL with 113 points (35 goals, 78 assists).
Ovechkin (56 goals, 54 assists) is bidding to become the first repeat Hart winner since Dominik Hasek led the Red Wings to the Stanley Cup in 1997-98. Ovechkin's also hoping to become the first forward to repeat as the Hart winner since Wayne Gretzky led the Edmonton Oilers to the Stanley Cup in 1984-85. He already captured his second straight Rocket Richard Trophy for leading the league in goals scored.
Datsyuk (32 goals, 65 assists) also is up for his second-straight Frank J. Selke Trophy as the best defensive forward and fourth-straight Lady Byng Trophy as the player who combines the best performance with sportsmanship.
Malkin captured the Art Ross Trophy by leading the NHL with 113 points (35 goals, 78 assists).
The Morning After
The Caps finally got Lady Luck on their side. After playing 40 minutes struggling to get the puck out of their own zone, they made some adjustments and were able to capture a very tough victory.
"One of the messages [before the third period] was '20 more minutes.' How hard is that to work as hard as you can for one of the best feelings you're ever going to have coming back from three games to one?" Coach Bruce Boudreau said. "We changed a couple of things up because we couldn't get the puck out of our zone. They were doing to us what I think we had done to them for six previous games."
"It wasn't changes. For most of the game, I thought we did a really good job of keeping the puck. It probably was the most we kept the puck all series," Rangers Head Coach John Tortorella said. "We couldn't develop enough scoring chances even with the puck and, during the [third] period, I think they turned it up a notch. We ended up backing up a little bit. They had the puck more than we did. It was still a game to be had. Who makes the next big play? They did, we didn't. They win the game."
With all of the drama, the Caps' players still had trouble wrapping their collective brains around a victory in a situation that was bordering on way too familiar.
"Shades of last year tonight, though, it was in the back of our minds," Brooks Laich said. "Last year's game was tight, it came down to overtime and I remember the bench last year when [Joffrey] Lupul scored, your body goes numb and it feels like somebody ripped your heart out. But it was a totally different feeling [tonight]."
"It's hard to describe. I'm sure you guys felt the feeling in the building," he added. "To be a player and to be part of this, to have this as our dream to keep going in the playoffs and try to win a Stanley Cup is awesome. I've never been to the second round of the NHL playoffs."
Sergei Fedorov recorded the game-winning goal in the third period, the 12th GWG of his playoff career. He now has 172 career playoff points and is tied with Mario Lemieux for 15th in all-time playoff scoring. In his career, Fedorov has six points (3g-3a) in eight Game 7s.
"That's a pretty good player coming down on him," Tortorella said, describing the goal. "It's not like you can step up on him because he can beat you one on one. So I thought [Wade Redden] did a pretty good job."
Now it's time to focus on the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Caps are off today and resume practice tomorrow morning.
"It's going to be tough, there's no doubt," Boudreau said. "They're the defending Eastern Conference champions, they played in the Stanley Cup [finals], they know what it's all about. And we're happy to be participating in it. I think it'll be great for hockey and great for TV too."
Here's a look at the series schedule:
You also can check out the schedule of the other semifinal series.
"One of the messages [before the third period] was '20 more minutes.' How hard is that to work as hard as you can for one of the best feelings you're ever going to have coming back from three games to one?" Coach Bruce Boudreau said. "We changed a couple of things up because we couldn't get the puck out of our zone. They were doing to us what I think we had done to them for six previous games."
"It wasn't changes. For most of the game, I thought we did a really good job of keeping the puck. It probably was the most we kept the puck all series," Rangers Head Coach John Tortorella said. "We couldn't develop enough scoring chances even with the puck and, during the [third] period, I think they turned it up a notch. We ended up backing up a little bit. They had the puck more than we did. It was still a game to be had. Who makes the next big play? They did, we didn't. They win the game."
With all of the drama, the Caps' players still had trouble wrapping their collective brains around a victory in a situation that was bordering on way too familiar.
"Shades of last year tonight, though, it was in the back of our minds," Brooks Laich said. "Last year's game was tight, it came down to overtime and I remember the bench last year when [Joffrey] Lupul scored, your body goes numb and it feels like somebody ripped your heart out. But it was a totally different feeling [tonight]."
"It's hard to describe. I'm sure you guys felt the feeling in the building," he added. "To be a player and to be part of this, to have this as our dream to keep going in the playoffs and try to win a Stanley Cup is awesome. I've never been to the second round of the NHL playoffs."
Sergei Fedorov recorded the game-winning goal in the third period, the 12th GWG of his playoff career. He now has 172 career playoff points and is tied with Mario Lemieux for 15th in all-time playoff scoring. In his career, Fedorov has six points (3g-3a) in eight Game 7s.
"That's a pretty good player coming down on him," Tortorella said, describing the goal. "It's not like you can step up on him because he can beat you one on one. So I thought [Wade Redden] did a pretty good job."
Now it's time to focus on the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Caps are off today and resume practice tomorrow morning.
"It's going to be tough, there's no doubt," Boudreau said. "They're the defending Eastern Conference champions, they played in the Stanley Cup [finals], they know what it's all about. And we're happy to be participating in it. I think it'll be great for hockey and great for TV too."
Here's a look at the series schedule:
| Game | Site | Date/Time | Network |
|---|---|---|---|
You also can check out the schedule of the other semifinal series.
April 28, 2009
The Dream Is Alive: Caps 2, Rangers 1
If you can believe it, it's louder than it was last year -- both in the arena and on the streets. This town is ready to rock. Even Commissioner Gary Bettman is in the house. Chris Clark is indeed back in the line-up.
It's time to play the game!
First Period
The Rangers have come out with a fervor that they haven't shown in while. Simeon Varlamov made two huge stops (on Sean Avery and Nik Antropov) in the first minute of play. The Caps had some missed opportunities but the Rangers cashed in first.
On a total breakdown by the Caps, Antropov got wide open after a nice feed from Brandon Dubinsky, who also was unguarded, and beat Varlamov at 5:35.
The Caps do not look like themselves but they were able to draw a penalty and get the game's first power play when Antropov was called for high sticking at 11:53. The PP wasn't overly inspiring and was cut 31 seconds short when Mike Green was called for interference. Luckily for the Caps, Varlamov made some nice saves the PK gang did the rest to keep the score as is.
Then the Caps got some luck on their side. On a three-on-two, Alex Semin took a feed from Nicklas Backstrom and fired it past Henrik Lundqvist -- after it deflected off Ryan Callahan and Dan Girardi. The game went to a TV timeout after that and, during the break, Michal Rozsival limped to the dressing room.
There also were some glass repairs behind Lundqvist before the game could resume.
Caps only had two shots in the period yet scored once. Go figure.
After one: Caps 1, Rangers 1
Second Period
The Caps came out stronger to start the stanza but the Rangers seemed to be there for the counter every time. Sergei Fedorov looks really, well, old and doesn't quite have that grace for which he's known. He really hasn't shown it all season, but in a game seven skating with Alex Ovechkin and Viktor Kozlov, it's magnified.
The Rangers have been especially dangerous when they get the puck down low in the Caps' zone. The Caps would be wise to avoid that from happening. But they haven't been able do that yet and the Rangers clearly have been the better team so far.
When they do they get chances in the offensive zone, the Caps haven't been able to take advantage of plenty of juicy rebounds given up by Lundqvist. The game has the feel of something that might go to OT although with the Rangers controlling the pace, I'm not so sure. The Caps need to take advantage of the pressure and not just couterattack.
Varlamov has kept the Caps in this game as the Rangers continue to assert themselves. Meanwhile, Ovie hasn't been overly present and the best line for the Caps has been the two grinder lines. Their top-six have been silent.
The Caps haven't done anything to stop what they know is coming -- Rangers' zone time. Yes, they've had some decent chances and shots, but nothing sustained and nothing to make Lundqvist uncomfortable. That's gotta change in the last 20 minutes. (Some booing ensued after the buzzer but it was brief.)
After two: Caps 1, Rangers 1.
Third Period
The Caps team that came out to start the third period was the team that many expected to be on the ice all game. They couldn't convert on an early power play (only their second of the game) but have been taking control so far.
The Caps continued their sizzling pace and didn't allow a Rangers shot until halfway through the period. The Caps have gotten some great opportunities but Lundqvist has been up to the challenge every time. Brooks Laich has been doing well on the second line in the final period and Ovie has elevated his game. The Caps need to keep pressuring and not allow the Rangers to get any opportunities if they want to win this game.
More of the same -- lots of pressure, no scoring. The refs continue to let the boys play, which isn't surprising with the commish in the house. It's time to unleash the fury with 5:56 left in the third period.
Fedorov just SCORED!!!! He skated as hard as he had all season and unleashed the most wicked wrister I've seen in years from Feds. He could have just saved the season -- but there's still time to go. This place is louder than a jet engine. Nobody is sitting down.
Moments later, Lundqvist stoned Ovechkin in a play that the Rangers had to have if they want any shot. The question is how long the King will remain in net.
The Rangers are doing everything in their power to crack Varlamov, but it's not happening.
Lundqvist couldn't get to the bench because of Caps' pressure and continued to make saves as the place is getting even louder. The Rangers took a timeout with 32.9 seconds left, but Lunqvist stayed on the bench.
Final: Caps 2, Rangers 1.
It's time to play the game!
First Period
The Rangers have come out with a fervor that they haven't shown in while. Simeon Varlamov made two huge stops (on Sean Avery and Nik Antropov) in the first minute of play. The Caps had some missed opportunities but the Rangers cashed in first.
On a total breakdown by the Caps, Antropov got wide open after a nice feed from Brandon Dubinsky, who also was unguarded, and beat Varlamov at 5:35.
The Caps do not look like themselves but they were able to draw a penalty and get the game's first power play when Antropov was called for high sticking at 11:53. The PP wasn't overly inspiring and was cut 31 seconds short when Mike Green was called for interference. Luckily for the Caps, Varlamov made some nice saves the PK gang did the rest to keep the score as is.
Then the Caps got some luck on their side. On a three-on-two, Alex Semin took a feed from Nicklas Backstrom and fired it past Henrik Lundqvist -- after it deflected off Ryan Callahan and Dan Girardi. The game went to a TV timeout after that and, during the break, Michal Rozsival limped to the dressing room.
There also were some glass repairs behind Lundqvist before the game could resume.
Caps only had two shots in the period yet scored once. Go figure.
After one: Caps 1, Rangers 1
Second Period
The Caps came out stronger to start the stanza but the Rangers seemed to be there for the counter every time. Sergei Fedorov looks really, well, old and doesn't quite have that grace for which he's known. He really hasn't shown it all season, but in a game seven skating with Alex Ovechkin and Viktor Kozlov, it's magnified.
The Rangers have been especially dangerous when they get the puck down low in the Caps' zone. The Caps would be wise to avoid that from happening. But they haven't been able do that yet and the Rangers clearly have been the better team so far.
When they do they get chances in the offensive zone, the Caps haven't been able to take advantage of plenty of juicy rebounds given up by Lundqvist. The game has the feel of something that might go to OT although with the Rangers controlling the pace, I'm not so sure. The Caps need to take advantage of the pressure and not just couterattack.
Varlamov has kept the Caps in this game as the Rangers continue to assert themselves. Meanwhile, Ovie hasn't been overly present and the best line for the Caps has been the two grinder lines. Their top-six have been silent.
The Caps haven't done anything to stop what they know is coming -- Rangers' zone time. Yes, they've had some decent chances and shots, but nothing sustained and nothing to make Lundqvist uncomfortable. That's gotta change in the last 20 minutes. (Some booing ensued after the buzzer but it was brief.)
After two: Caps 1, Rangers 1.
Third Period
The Caps team that came out to start the third period was the team that many expected to be on the ice all game. They couldn't convert on an early power play (only their second of the game) but have been taking control so far.
The Caps continued their sizzling pace and didn't allow a Rangers shot until halfway through the period. The Caps have gotten some great opportunities but Lundqvist has been up to the challenge every time. Brooks Laich has been doing well on the second line in the final period and Ovie has elevated his game. The Caps need to keep pressuring and not allow the Rangers to get any opportunities if they want to win this game.
More of the same -- lots of pressure, no scoring. The refs continue to let the boys play, which isn't surprising with the commish in the house. It's time to unleash the fury with 5:56 left in the third period.
Fedorov just SCORED!!!! He skated as hard as he had all season and unleashed the most wicked wrister I've seen in years from Feds. He could have just saved the season -- but there's still time to go. This place is louder than a jet engine. Nobody is sitting down.
Moments later, Lundqvist stoned Ovechkin in a play that the Rangers had to have if they want any shot. The question is how long the King will remain in net.
The Rangers are doing everything in their power to crack Varlamov, but it's not happening.
Lundqvist couldn't get to the bench because of Caps' pressure and continued to make saves as the place is getting even louder. The Rangers took a timeout with 32.9 seconds left, but Lunqvist stayed on the bench.
Final: Caps 2, Rangers 1.
A Look Ahead to the Second Round
As the Caps, New York Rangers, New Jersey Devils and Carolina Hurricanes prepare for game seven tonight, the rest of the playoff teams are awaiting the second round. The match-ups are set out in the Western Conference, while the results of tonight's games will determine the Eastern Conference pairings.
If the higher-seeded Caps and Devils win, then they will face each other in the next round (with the Pittsburgh Penguins facing the Boston Bruins). However, if the Caps and 'Canes win then the NHL will get what it wants (Caps-Penguins) while the 'Canes would face the Bruins. Conversely, if the Rangers win, they would face Boston regardless of what happens in the Devils-Carolina game tonight.
The second-round match-ups in the West are Detroit-Anaheim and Vancouver-Chicago.
No word on any game times but it's sure to be announced late tonight or early tomorrow.
If the higher-seeded Caps and Devils win, then they will face each other in the next round (with the Pittsburgh Penguins facing the Boston Bruins). However, if the Caps and 'Canes win then the NHL will get what it wants (Caps-Penguins) while the 'Canes would face the Bruins. Conversely, if the Rangers win, they would face Boston regardless of what happens in the Devils-Carolina game tonight.
The second-round match-ups in the West are Detroit-Anaheim and Vancouver-Chicago.
No word on any game times but it's sure to be announced late tonight or early tomorrow.
Game Seven: 'It's What You Dream About'
For the second consecutive spring, the Caps find themselves hosting a game seven against a former Patrick Division opponent. And at this point in the season, pep talks are a bit passe.
"If it's hard for anybody in this room to get ramped and excited for a game seven in our own building against the New York Rangers..."
Brian Pothier, who didn't get to play the Flyers last April, wasn't able to finish his sentence -- but the unspoken words were clear.
"It's what you dream about. Game sevens, you're playing street hockey on the pond growing up," he added. "These are the moments that you dream about -- Bobby Orr or whatever -- on the pond. Game seven is the best, the ultimate sportsman's dream or whatever you want to call it. We expect the place to be absolutely electric. There's a lot on the line, so it'll be fun."
Pothier's spot in the line-up isn't the only potential difference from the Flyers game. Chris Clark, who also missed out last spring, might suit up against the New York Rangers.
"These guys know what to bring. It's game seven, you lose you go home for either team," the captain said. "We don't want it to be our last game. It's something that, I know it's a cliche, but we have to stick to our game plan and stick to the things that have brought you this far."
"Game seven is the time when [momentum] really goes out the window," Eric Fehr added. "A couple lucky shots here or there, could go either way. That's the beauty of a game seven."
Last year's overtime loss to the Flyers still resonates with Viktor Kozlov.
"I think the guys understand the mistakes they make before," he said. "We cannot take them easily, especially in the playoffs. Everybody play so great."
And with that, the Caps are ready to play in their biggest game of the year -- again.
"If it's hard for anybody in this room to get ramped and excited for a game seven in our own building against the New York Rangers..."
Brian Pothier, who didn't get to play the Flyers last April, wasn't able to finish his sentence -- but the unspoken words were clear.
"It's what you dream about. Game sevens, you're playing street hockey on the pond growing up," he added. "These are the moments that you dream about -- Bobby Orr or whatever -- on the pond. Game seven is the best, the ultimate sportsman's dream or whatever you want to call it. We expect the place to be absolutely electric. There's a lot on the line, so it'll be fun."
Pothier's spot in the line-up isn't the only potential difference from the Flyers game. Chris Clark, who also missed out last spring, might suit up against the New York Rangers.
"These guys know what to bring. It's game seven, you lose you go home for either team," the captain said. "We don't want it to be our last game. It's something that, I know it's a cliche, but we have to stick to our game plan and stick to the things that have brought you this far."
"Game seven is the time when [momentum] really goes out the window," Eric Fehr added. "A couple lucky shots here or there, could go either way. That's the beauty of a game seven."
Last year's overtime loss to the Flyers still resonates with Viktor Kozlov.
"I think the guys understand the mistakes they make before," he said. "We cannot take them easily, especially in the playoffs. Everybody play so great."
And with that, the Caps are ready to play in their biggest game of the year -- again.
April 27, 2009
Caps Looking to Survive and Advance
Most everybody suited up for today's optional practice and all attended a noon meeting that presumably was a video-based study. And there's no doubt what was on everybody's mind: how to win one more game against the New York Rangers.
"I think continuing to do what we've been doing," Eric Fehr said. "Not get satisfied and not sit back. We gotta keep going after these guys and playing the way we did in the last couple games."
"The Rangers have a really good goaltending and defense, so you have to crash the net and find the loose pucks there," Tomas Fleischmann added.
The best way to accomplish those goals is to be ahead after the first period -- the formula for all of the Caps' wins over the Rangers.
"It's important to get a lead on these guys. If they get a lead on you, they can really sit back and trap you up," Fehr said. "So it's important for us to get a lead and continue to play our game and force them to get out of their element a little bit."
"You get the first goal, it's momentum, you're already up by one; the other team has to fight to get back to get even," Chris Clark said.
Boyd Gordon, like all of his teammates, know that the Rangers are going to throw the proverbial kitchen sink at the Caps and it'll be up to the home team to take control early.
"We want to come out with a good start tomorrow and go from there," he said. "We're expecting their best game of the year and we gotta come out and play our best game of the year. But I think a good start's always important."
"I think continuing to do what we've been doing," Eric Fehr said. "Not get satisfied and not sit back. We gotta keep going after these guys and playing the way we did in the last couple games."
"The Rangers have a really good goaltending and defense, so you have to crash the net and find the loose pucks there," Tomas Fleischmann added.
The best way to accomplish those goals is to be ahead after the first period -- the formula for all of the Caps' wins over the Rangers.
"It's important to get a lead on these guys. If they get a lead on you, they can really sit back and trap you up," Fehr said. "So it's important for us to get a lead and continue to play our game and force them to get out of their element a little bit."
"You get the first goal, it's momentum, you're already up by one; the other team has to fight to get back to get even," Chris Clark said.
Boyd Gordon, like all of his teammates, know that the Rangers are going to throw the proverbial kitchen sink at the Caps and it'll be up to the home team to take control early.
"We want to come out with a good start tomorrow and go from there," he said. "We're expecting their best game of the year and we gotta come out and play our best game of the year. But I think a good start's always important."
Brashear Suspended
Donald Brashear has been suspended for a total of six games, beginning tomorrow night when the Caps meet the Rangers in game seven of the series. The suspension will extend through the Caps' next five 2009 playoff games, the 2009-10 regular season, or both, as circumstances warrant.
"Brashear delivered a shoulder hit to an unsuspecting player," said NHL Senior Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations Colin Campbell. "It is also my opinion that the hit was delivered late and targeted the head of his opponent, causing significant injury."
Brashear's spot in the lineup likely will be occupied by Michael Nylander or Chris Clark -- and my money's on No. 92, although my personal preference is the captain.
"Brashear delivered a shoulder hit to an unsuspecting player," said NHL Senior Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations Colin Campbell. "It is also my opinion that the hit was delivered late and targeted the head of his opponent, causing significant injury."
Brashear's spot in the lineup likely will be occupied by Michael Nylander or Chris Clark -- and my money's on No. 92, although my personal preference is the captain.
Caps Await Seventh Game 7
For the seventh time in its 35-year history, the Caps will be participating in a game seven. We all remember last year's 3-2 OT loss to Philly, but here are the others:
That gives the Caps a 1-5 record in game sevens (1-4 at home). Not a good omen heading into tomorrow's tilt with the New York Rangers, who have never blown a 3-1 series lead. The last time the Rangers played a game seven after holding 3-1 lead occurred during the 1994 Stanley Cup finals -- when the Blueshirts broke the curse with a 3-2 win at Madison Square Garden.
Also, today marks the 19th anniversary of John Druce's OT winner against (who else?) the Rangers in a 2-1 Caps' victory that eliminated New York from the 1990 playoffs. Druce had nine goals against the Rangers in that five-game series and holds the franchise record for most goals in a playoff season with 14 and is tied for most points (17) with Joe Juneau and Adam Oates. (The Caps lost to the Boston Bruins in the Wales Conference finals in the next series.)
Who will be this year's hero? We'll find out tomorrow night.
Thursday, May 18, 1995, 3-0 loss to Pittsburgh
Friday, May 1, 1992, 3-1 loss to Pittsburgh
Saturday, April 16, 1988, 5-4 OT win over Philly
Saturday, April 30, 1988, 3-2 loss to New Jersey
Saturday, April 18-19, 1987, 3-2 loss (4OT) to New York Islanders
Friday, May 1, 1992, 3-1 loss to Pittsburgh
Saturday, April 16, 1988, 5-4 OT win over Philly
Saturday, April 30, 1988, 3-2 loss to New Jersey
Saturday, April 18-19, 1987, 3-2 loss (4OT) to New York Islanders
That gives the Caps a 1-5 record in game sevens (1-4 at home). Not a good omen heading into tomorrow's tilt with the New York Rangers, who have never blown a 3-1 series lead. The last time the Rangers played a game seven after holding 3-1 lead occurred during the 1994 Stanley Cup finals -- when the Blueshirts broke the curse with a 3-2 win at Madison Square Garden.
Also, today marks the 19th anniversary of John Druce's OT winner against (who else?) the Rangers in a 2-1 Caps' victory that eliminated New York from the 1990 playoffs. Druce had nine goals against the Rangers in that five-game series and holds the franchise record for most goals in a playoff season with 14 and is tied for most points (17) with Joe Juneau and Adam Oates. (The Caps lost to the Boston Bruins in the Wales Conference finals in the next series.)
Who will be this year's hero? We'll find out tomorrow night.
April 26, 2009
Game Seven, Take Two
For the second straight year, the Caps are headed to a game seven in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. But, this time around, it feels different than last year's series against the Philadelphia Flyers.
The Caps got scoring from unlikely places (Milan Jurcina, Viktor Kozlov and Tom Poti), one from a dormant power (Mike Green) and one from the MVP (Alex Ovechkin, natch) in a 5-3 win today over the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden.
The reason the comeback sequel feels different is because of how everything played out. The Caps have won three of the last four games against the Rangers, all in convincing fashion. Last year, the Caps won game one and then lost three straight before clawing out two victories heading into the decisive game.
This year, Simeon Varlamov has been dominant; last year, Cristobal Huet seemingly was just getting by. We all remember the controversial hit on Huet in last year's game seven, which by the way was played one day after game six, and the fact that Huet always played in a fragile manner.
From what we've seen so far of Varlamov, he seems to be sturdy and unshakable. Some could argue that Rangers' netminder Henrik Lundqvist is the one that's shaken (not stirred) -- a big departure from this time last week.
We won't know for sure until Tuesday night around 10 p.m. EDT (unless it goes into overtime like last year), but there's a feeling that this game seven won't be -- as Yogi Berra once said -- deja vu all over again.
The Caps got scoring from unlikely places (Milan Jurcina, Viktor Kozlov and Tom Poti), one from a dormant power (Mike Green) and one from the MVP (Alex Ovechkin, natch) in a 5-3 win today over the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden.
The reason the comeback sequel feels different is because of how everything played out. The Caps have won three of the last four games against the Rangers, all in convincing fashion. Last year, the Caps won game one and then lost three straight before clawing out two victories heading into the decisive game.
This year, Simeon Varlamov has been dominant; last year, Cristobal Huet seemingly was just getting by. We all remember the controversial hit on Huet in last year's game seven, which by the way was played one day after game six, and the fact that Huet always played in a fragile manner.
From what we've seen so far of Varlamov, he seems to be sturdy and unshakable. Some could argue that Rangers' netminder Henrik Lundqvist is the one that's shaken (not stirred) -- a big departure from this time last week.
We won't know for sure until Tuesday night around 10 p.m. EDT (unless it goes into overtime like last year), but there's a feeling that this game seven won't be -- as Yogi Berra once said -- deja vu all over again.
April 25, 2009
A Tale of Two Caps
Not to be Mr. Obvious, but teams play differently in games they win and lose. In the Caps' current series against the New York Rangers, that margin is pretty stark:
What do we learn? In wins, the Caps' defense is better and the offense more discerning with their shots. In losses, the Caps take too many shots and, although they don't allow a ton, they are looser in their own end. And yes, there is such a thing as shooting too much because the team has been smarter in its shot selection during those two wins.
Overall, the Caps' 1.40 playoff GAA is second-best in the NHL, but their 2.40 goals per game is 10th. Sorta the opposite of the regular season, when the team averaged 3.27 GPG (third) and had a 2.93 GAA (19th).
Let's hope that the Caps emulate their winning game-plan tomorrow at Madison Square Garden and send the series back to Verizon Center for a decisive game seven Tuesday night.
Two Wins: 8 goals scored, 0 goals allowed; 61 shots fired, 53 shots allowed
Three Losses: 4 goals scored, 6 goals allowed; 109 shots fired, 66 shots allowed
Three Losses: 4 goals scored, 6 goals allowed; 109 shots fired, 66 shots allowed
What do we learn? In wins, the Caps' defense is better and the offense more discerning with their shots. In losses, the Caps take too many shots and, although they don't allow a ton, they are looser in their own end. And yes, there is such a thing as shooting too much because the team has been smarter in its shot selection during those two wins.
Overall, the Caps' 1.40 playoff GAA is second-best in the NHL, but their 2.40 goals per game is 10th. Sorta the opposite of the regular season, when the team averaged 3.27 GPG (third) and had a 2.93 GAA (19th).
Let's hope that the Caps emulate their winning game-plan tomorrow at Madison Square Garden and send the series back to Verizon Center for a decisive game seven Tuesday night.
April 24, 2009
An Upsetting Trend
The Caps don't have history on their side in tonight's game five against the New York Rangers. The franchise is 7-17 all-time in playoff game fives, including a 4-10 record at home and a 2-5 record when trailing in the series, 3-1.
Additionally, since the 2004-05 lockout (24 series before this season), 10 lower-seeded teams have advanced. That's a 41.7 percent success rate.
This year, the Caps and Presidents' Trophy-winning San Jose Sharks (who are down 3-1 to the Anaheim Ducks) are in danger of continuing this trend. Another possibility is the Chicago Blackhawks, who are tied 2-2 with the Calgary Flames in a series where the home team has won every game.
Conversely, every Stanley Cup champion since 1998 has finished with one of the four best records in the league and four have won the President's Trophy. Go figure.
Additionally, since the 2004-05 lockout (24 series before this season), 10 lower-seeded teams have advanced. That's a 41.7 percent success rate.
This year, the Caps and Presidents' Trophy-winning San Jose Sharks (who are down 3-1 to the Anaheim Ducks) are in danger of continuing this trend. Another possibility is the Chicago Blackhawks, who are tied 2-2 with the Calgary Flames in a series where the home team has won every game.
Conversely, every Stanley Cup champion since 1998 has finished with one of the four best records in the league and four have won the President's Trophy. Go figure.
April 23, 2009
Award Nominations Begin
Mike Green was named one of the Norris Trophy finalists today, along with perennial nominees Zdeno Chara and Nicklas Lidstrom (who has won it six times over the last seven years). It's a well-deserved honor for Green, who would become the second Capital to win the Norris Trophy and first since Rod Langway won the award in back-to-back years (1982-83, 1983-84).
This season, Green notched 31 goals (tied for 27th in the league with nine others but tops among defensemen by eight over Sheldon Souray), including 18 on the power play (fourth in the league, two behind league leader Thomas Vanek and one behind Alex Ovechkin and Mike Cammalleri; tops among defensemen by six over Souray).
Tomorrow, the Lady Byng Award nominees will be announced and it would be great if a Cap was on there (Ovechkin garned some votes last season). However, more than likely, we'll have to wait until next Wednesday for Ovechkin and the Hart. The rest of the unveiling schedule:
This season, Green notched 31 goals (tied for 27th in the league with nine others but tops among defensemen by eight over Sheldon Souray), including 18 on the power play (fourth in the league, two behind league leader Thomas Vanek and one behind Alex Ovechkin and Mike Cammalleri; tops among defensemen by six over Souray).
Tomorrow, the Lady Byng Award nominees will be announced and it would be great if a Cap was on there (Ovechkin garned some votes last season). However, more than likely, we'll have to wait until next Wednesday for Ovechkin and the Hart. The rest of the unveiling schedule:
Friday: Lady Byng Trophy (sportsmanship)
Monday, April 27: Vezina Trophy (top goaltender)
Tuesday, April 28: Selke Trophy (top defensive forward)
Wednesday, April 29: Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP)
Thursday, April 30: Masterton Trophy (perseverance)
Friday, May 1: Adams Award (Coach of the Year)
Monday, May 4: NHL Foundation Award (contributions)
Monday, April 27: Vezina Trophy (top goaltender)
Tuesday, April 28: Selke Trophy (top defensive forward)
Wednesday, April 29: Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP)
Thursday, April 30: Masterton Trophy (perseverance)
Friday, May 1: Adams Award (Coach of the Year)
Monday, May 4: NHL Foundation Award (contributions)
Lead After First Period Equals Victory
The biggest indicator for postseason success is leading after one period. The Caps have only accomplished that in game three against the New York Rangers, and that's the one game they've won in this series.
Going back to 1998, the Caps are 11-3 when leading after the first period of a playoff game and 3-15 when trailing after the initial stanza. (They're 7-10 when the game is tied.) Two of those three losses when leading after one came in the 2000 playoffs against the Pittsburgh Penguins; the other in the 1998 quarterfinals against the Boston Bruins.
This follows the trend of the last five Stanley Cup champions, who are 9-0 when leading after the first period of the finals. The champions are 9-6 when the game is tied after one and 2-6 when trailing.
Getting that first-period lead has been difficult against the New York Rangers because, for some reason, the Caps come out slowly. In their lone victory in this series, the Caps dominated from the beginning and gave the Rangers no chance. They didn't do that in the other games and had to fight from behind, which is a formula for disaster.
The Caps, barring a history-defying comeback, will be spending another off-season looking for answers. One place to start is to find a proven winner like Chris Drury, who has 17 game-winning goals in the playoffs and his name on the Stanley Cup.
Sergei Fedorov, who won three Stanley Cups with the Detroit Red Wings, has 11 playoff GWGs -- but none since 2000. Alex Ovechkin had two last spring.
Finding a way to win starts with first-period leads. It's something the Caps need to grasp, otherwise history is not on their side.
Going back to 1998, the Caps are 11-3 when leading after the first period of a playoff game and 3-15 when trailing after the initial stanza. (They're 7-10 when the game is tied.) Two of those three losses when leading after one came in the 2000 playoffs against the Pittsburgh Penguins; the other in the 1998 quarterfinals against the Boston Bruins.
This follows the trend of the last five Stanley Cup champions, who are 9-0 when leading after the first period of the finals. The champions are 9-6 when the game is tied after one and 2-6 when trailing.
Getting that first-period lead has been difficult against the New York Rangers because, for some reason, the Caps come out slowly. In their lone victory in this series, the Caps dominated from the beginning and gave the Rangers no chance. They didn't do that in the other games and had to fight from behind, which is a formula for disaster.
The Caps, barring a history-defying comeback, will be spending another off-season looking for answers. One place to start is to find a proven winner like Chris Drury, who has 17 game-winning goals in the playoffs and his name on the Stanley Cup.
Sergei Fedorov, who won three Stanley Cups with the Detroit Red Wings, has 11 playoff GWGs -- but none since 2000. Alex Ovechkin had two last spring.
Finding a way to win starts with first-period leads. It's something the Caps need to grasp, otherwise history is not on their side.
April 22, 2009
Caps' Shooting Stars
When game four starts tonight (7 p..m., CSN), the New York Rangers' attention will be on the Caps' newest shooting star -- and I'm not talking about Alex Ovechkin. After allowing just one goal in his first two playoff games, Simeon Varlamov already is being compared to Ken Dryden.
GM George McPhee won't talk about next year, but did say that the Caps' stable of potential goaltending stars such as Michal Neuvirth (who played five games with the Caps this season) and Braden Holtby give the Caps a bright future. Let's hope Varlamov doesn't go the path of Jim Carey.
Since Varly took over in net, the Caps sometimes-maligned defense has played much better and really cramped down in its own zone. Varlamov leads all NHL goaltenders in playoff GAA (0.50) and save percentage (.982). The Caps also are allowing the third-fewest goals per game in the postseason (1.67, tied with Boston) and second-fewest shots (26, tied with Detroit).
Maybe it's a coincidence, but the Caps' defensive resurgence is coming with Jeff Schultz out of the line-up.
Meanwhile, ESPN's "E:60" profiled Ovechkin on yesterday's episode and he was extremely entertaining, especially with his robotic demonstrations. Let's hope, though, he's smart about his fast driving and stays safe.
GM George McPhee won't talk about next year, but did say that the Caps' stable of potential goaltending stars such as Michal Neuvirth (who played five games with the Caps this season) and Braden Holtby give the Caps a bright future. Let's hope Varlamov doesn't go the path of Jim Carey.
Since Varly took over in net, the Caps sometimes-maligned defense has played much better and really cramped down in its own zone. Varlamov leads all NHL goaltenders in playoff GAA (0.50) and save percentage (.982). The Caps also are allowing the third-fewest goals per game in the postseason (1.67, tied with Boston) and second-fewest shots (26, tied with Detroit).
Maybe it's a coincidence, but the Caps' defensive resurgence is coming with Jeff Schultz out of the line-up.
Meanwhile, ESPN's "E:60" profiled Ovechkin on yesterday's episode and he was extremely entertaining, especially with his robotic demonstrations. Let's hope, though, he's smart about his fast driving and stays safe.
April 21, 2009
Playoff Special: $13 T-Shirts
As the 2009 NHL playoffs continue, gear up with a shirt that says it all: Storm the Crease, Win the Cup. You can buy it now for the special rate of $13.
Also available at the special rate are two existing favorites: Playoff 'Hawk and It's Not Easy.
As always, if you have any comments, suggestions or questions, please e-mail me.
Also available at the special rate are two existing favorites: Playoff 'Hawk and It's Not Easy.
As always, if you have any comments, suggestions or questions, please e-mail me.
Backstrom on NHL Live
Nicklas Backstrom appeared on NHL Live today and didn't really break any news but he had a good quote about Alex Ovechkin.
"He wanted to win so bad and he loves this game so bad. He wants to score too," Backstrom said. "The whole Rangers team is trying to be close [to] him every shift. Sometimes it's good to pass and sometimes it's good to shoot. I think he doesn't care who scores a goal on our team. He has a big heart and he's a team player."
Otherwise, Backstrom spoke about the Caps sticking to their system last night, working deep into the Rangers' zone, attacking the net and scoring from in front of the net.
"Right now, we're back in the series and the pressure's on them," he added.
"He wanted to win so bad and he loves this game so bad. He wants to score too," Backstrom said. "The whole Rangers team is trying to be close [to] him every shift. Sometimes it's good to pass and sometimes it's good to shoot. I think he doesn't care who scores a goal on our team. He has a big heart and he's a team player."
Otherwise, Backstrom spoke about the Caps sticking to their system last night, working deep into the Rangers' zone, attacking the net and scoring from in front of the net.
"Right now, we're back in the series and the pressure's on them," he added.
Playoff Perfection: Caps 4, Rangers 0
One game does not a series make, but if the Caps can duplicate what they did in last night's 4-0 victory over the New York Rangers, then they've got a real shot at advancing. The kind of game they played is the true meaning of playoff hockey: showing grit and paying the price. It's what they'll need to do to get by the Rangers and advance further into the postseason.
Do you think it was a coincidence that Alex Semin had his best game of the playoffs after Nicklas Backstrom was moved to his line? Backstrom might be the best center in the game right now and he clearly is well beyond his 21 years. If the Caps could find a center that's half as good as Backstrom, with the potential to improve, they'll be virtually unbeatable. Not only does "Backy" make unbelievable passes, but he's great in his own zone and does the little things too.
Brooks Laich had a great game as well, doing what he does best: everything. Laich has been the Caps' best player all postseason and he really stepped into the limelight last night.
Simeon Varlamov has earned himself starts until he falters, which he hasn't done in his seven NHL appearances. He's allowed one goal in two games, whereas Jose Theodore let in four in game one. You do the math.
But the Caps still need to replicate this effort in game four tomorrow night. If they do, then they could go on to end it in six. If not, then it'll be do-or-die for the rest of the series. The choice is obvious.
Do you think it was a coincidence that Alex Semin had his best game of the playoffs after Nicklas Backstrom was moved to his line? Backstrom might be the best center in the game right now and he clearly is well beyond his 21 years. If the Caps could find a center that's half as good as Backstrom, with the potential to improve, they'll be virtually unbeatable. Not only does "Backy" make unbelievable passes, but he's great in his own zone and does the little things too.
Brooks Laich had a great game as well, doing what he does best: everything. Laich has been the Caps' best player all postseason and he really stepped into the limelight last night.
Simeon Varlamov has earned himself starts until he falters, which he hasn't done in his seven NHL appearances. He's allowed one goal in two games, whereas Jose Theodore let in four in game one. You do the math.
But the Caps still need to replicate this effort in game four tomorrow night. If they do, then they could go on to end it in six. If not, then it'll be do-or-die for the rest of the series. The choice is obvious.
April 20, 2009
For Caps, Price Isn't Right
It's time for the Caps to pay the Piper -- or, in this case, the price to win tonight's game three (7 p.m., CSN, Versus). Yes, the Caps are down, 2-0, are need four more wins to advance over the New York Rangers. But they've got to start somewhere -- and that's in front of the net, in the corners and anywhere that mucking and grinding takes them.
The playoffs isn't the time for finesse and pretty play; it's time to get dirty and crash the net. That's where playoff games and Stanley Cups are won: in the proverbial mud.
Just look at the Anaheim Ducks, who are up 2-0 over the NHL-best San Jose Sharks. Their formula is simple: stout on defense, hard-working on offense. The New Jersey Devils and Detroit Red Wings have won seven of the last 13 Stanley Cups using that formula. Both have good offenses, but it's the other traits that make them champions.
Ditto the 2006 Carolina Hurricanes, who the Caps are trying to emulate by coming from an 0-2 hole as the No. 2 seed.
It's great that the Caps have fired 70 shots in two games. But the fact that Coach Bruce Boudreau says only 13 of them qualified as scoring chances isn't good. It's not how many shots you fire; it's where they are taken that's paramount.
Hard work breeds championships; highlight-reel goals don't count in the postseason. Only wins matter.
The playoffs isn't the time for finesse and pretty play; it's time to get dirty and crash the net. That's where playoff games and Stanley Cups are won: in the proverbial mud.
Just look at the Anaheim Ducks, who are up 2-0 over the NHL-best San Jose Sharks. Their formula is simple: stout on defense, hard-working on offense. The New Jersey Devils and Detroit Red Wings have won seven of the last 13 Stanley Cups using that formula. Both have good offenses, but it's the other traits that make them champions.
Ditto the 2006 Carolina Hurricanes, who the Caps are trying to emulate by coming from an 0-2 hole as the No. 2 seed.
It's great that the Caps have fired 70 shots in two games. But the fact that Coach Bruce Boudreau says only 13 of them qualified as scoring chances isn't good. It's not how many shots you fire; it's where they are taken that's paramount.
Hard work breeds championships; highlight-reel goals don't count in the postseason. Only wins matter.
April 19, 2009
It's Panic Time
The Caps officially have reached panic mode after falling into an 0-2 hole. If this team has any shot at advancing, they need to beat the New York Rangers tomorrow night at Madison Square Garden. But with this group of Caps, it's easier said than done.
Yes, the Caps played a much better game during Saturday's 1-0 loss. And yes, Henrik Lundqvist is the biggest reason the Caps have gotten themselves into this situation. But he's not the only reason.
The Caps still refuse to pay the price that it takes to win playoff series. Not games; series. Until they completely change their mentality, or it's changed for them through offseason roster moves, then they will be the San Jose Sharks of the Eastern Conference: tons of talent, no playoff success.
Coach Bruce Boudreau can only try to tell them this so many times. And don't blame him: he is the type of person who did this during his playing career. He worked so hard to get where he did and barely got a chance to play in the NHL. Gabby has said as much too many times to recount this season. He now needs players on his roster to support that goal. I'm not suggesting wholesale changes, but things must be done for sure. This will have to be the top priority in the offseason.
Until then, the few players that are doing this night after night (Brooks Laich, Tomas Fleischmann and Eric Fehr) will have to lead the team. The best line during game two was that of David Steckel, Matt Bradley and Boyd Gordon. Unfortunately for the team, offense is not that trio's prowess. But they are willing to pay the price night after night while displaying the grit and determination to get things done.
Pretty goals don't win the Stanley Cup; the Caps need to realize that. Shots from the perimeter are either blocked or totally miss the net. Yes, some are successful. But that's an exception, not a rule.
As for Alex Ovechkin, he seemed more determined to hit people than shoot the puck. His shots were from closer range -- but he seemed out-of-sync for most of the game. His trademark move of using a defenseman as a screen in a shot from the slot was non-existent and didn't seem determined to change that.
Playoff hockey is about grit; the Caps just aren't showing it right now. And, quite frankly, I'm not sure this group of players is capable of doing that every minute of every game. Until they learn that lesson, these kind of series losses to harder-working teams are going to be the norm.
These Caps are young, but not they're ignorant. Something has to change.
Yes, the Caps played a much better game during Saturday's 1-0 loss. And yes, Henrik Lundqvist is the biggest reason the Caps have gotten themselves into this situation. But he's not the only reason.
The Caps still refuse to pay the price that it takes to win playoff series. Not games; series. Until they completely change their mentality, or it's changed for them through offseason roster moves, then they will be the San Jose Sharks of the Eastern Conference: tons of talent, no playoff success.
Coach Bruce Boudreau can only try to tell them this so many times. And don't blame him: he is the type of person who did this during his playing career. He worked so hard to get where he did and barely got a chance to play in the NHL. Gabby has said as much too many times to recount this season. He now needs players on his roster to support that goal. I'm not suggesting wholesale changes, but things must be done for sure. This will have to be the top priority in the offseason.
Until then, the few players that are doing this night after night (Brooks Laich, Tomas Fleischmann and Eric Fehr) will have to lead the team. The best line during game two was that of David Steckel, Matt Bradley and Boyd Gordon. Unfortunately for the team, offense is not that trio's prowess. But they are willing to pay the price night after night while displaying the grit and determination to get things done.
Pretty goals don't win the Stanley Cup; the Caps need to realize that. Shots from the perimeter are either blocked or totally miss the net. Yes, some are successful. But that's an exception, not a rule.
As for Alex Ovechkin, he seemed more determined to hit people than shoot the puck. His shots were from closer range -- but he seemed out-of-sync for most of the game. His trademark move of using a defenseman as a screen in a shot from the slot was non-existent and didn't seem determined to change that.
Playoff hockey is about grit; the Caps just aren't showing it right now. And, quite frankly, I'm not sure this group of players is capable of doing that every minute of every game. Until they learn that lesson, these kind of series losses to harder-working teams are going to be the norm.
These Caps are young, but not they're ignorant. Something has to change.
April 17, 2009
Crash the Net, Boys
So much attention has been paid to Jose Theodore after the Caps' 4-3 loss to the New York Rangers on Wednesday night. Yes, Theo didn't play his best game and should have stopped one or two more shots. But that hardly was the reason the Caps lost.
Not taking anything away from Rangers' goalie Henrik Lundqvist, but if the Caps had gone to the net and taken more shots from close range, their success probably would have increased. Look at Alex Ovechkin's shot chart: almost all of his shots are beyond the face-off circle.
The Caps' best goal of the night belonged to Viktor Kozlov, who converted a great pass from Nicklas Backstrom. He was right in front of the net when it happened. But their other two -- Tomas Fleischmann redirecting an Ovechkin slapper and Alex Semin knocking in a rebound -- also came from close range.
All season, Coach Bruce Boudreau has been pleading for the Caps to go to the net and stop taking so many perimeter shots. Against Lundqvist, who clearly outplayed Theodore, the Caps need to storm the crease and shoot from closer range.
Yes, creating traffic in front for longer-range shots is important. But going to the net and shooting when you get there is the best way to ensure victory.
Notes: Check out who now has a playoff 'hawk: none other than Slapshot!
Also, be sure to check out my five keys to the series on Cycle like the Sedins.
Not taking anything away from Rangers' goalie Henrik Lundqvist, but if the Caps had gone to the net and taken more shots from close range, their success probably would have increased. Look at Alex Ovechkin's shot chart: almost all of his shots are beyond the face-off circle.
The Caps' best goal of the night belonged to Viktor Kozlov, who converted a great pass from Nicklas Backstrom. He was right in front of the net when it happened. But their other two -- Tomas Fleischmann redirecting an Ovechkin slapper and Alex Semin knocking in a rebound -- also came from close range.
All season, Coach Bruce Boudreau has been pleading for the Caps to go to the net and stop taking so many perimeter shots. Against Lundqvist, who clearly outplayed Theodore, the Caps need to storm the crease and shoot from closer range.
Yes, creating traffic in front for longer-range shots is important. But going to the net and shooting when you get there is the best way to ensure victory.
Notes: Check out who now has a playoff 'hawk: none other than Slapshot!
Also, be sure to check out my five keys to the series on Cycle like the Sedins.
'E:60' Covers Hockey Pollution
As you have heard, Alex Ovechkin will be featured on ESPN's "E:60" on Tuesday, April 21 in a story by Rachel (nee Alexander) Nichols.
This past week, Rachel's story covered a very troubling trend: ice resurfacing machines emitting carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide or ultrafine particles that make kids, parents, coaches and other people involved in youth hockey ill. It was a disturbing story that really makes me wonder whether the folks featured in this story really care about the kids or about the bottom line.
The story does note that three states (Minnesota, Massachusetts and Rhode Island) have laws regulating air quality at indoor ice rinks. Hopefully others will follow suit and allow these kids to learn in the great game of hockey in a healthy, happy manner.
Rachel covered the Caps for the Washington Post when I interned for the team during the (painful) 1998-99 season. She always was a class act and great to be around on a daily basis -- much like the current crop of beat writers are now. It's great to see her covering hockey again and bringing attention to the greatest game around.
This past week, Rachel's story covered a very troubling trend: ice resurfacing machines emitting carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide or ultrafine particles that make kids, parents, coaches and other people involved in youth hockey ill. It was a disturbing story that really makes me wonder whether the folks featured in this story really care about the kids or about the bottom line.
The story does note that three states (Minnesota, Massachusetts and Rhode Island) have laws regulating air quality at indoor ice rinks. Hopefully others will follow suit and allow these kids to learn in the great game of hockey in a healthy, happy manner.
Rachel covered the Caps for the Washington Post when I interned for the team during the (painful) 1998-99 season. She always was a class act and great to be around on a daily basis -- much like the current crop of beat writers are now. It's great to see her covering hockey again and bringing attention to the greatest game around.
April 14, 2009
Caps-Rangers Preview
The Caps and New York Rangers begin their fifth-ever playoff meeting tomorrow night (7 p.m., CSN) at Verizon Center. A series preview:
Offense: The Caps clearly dominate this match-up by a mile. Not only do they have Alex Ovechkin (56 goals, 54 assists), Nicklas Backstrom (22 goals, 66 assists) and Alex Semin (34 goals, 45 assists) -- but defenseman Mike Green (31 goals, 42 assists) would have led the Rangers in goals. In fact, the Rangers' top goal scorer, Nik Antropov, registered all but seven of his 28 goals as a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Antropov also led New York in points with 59, meaning four Caps had more points than the Rangers' team leader. This translated to nearly a goal difference per game between the two teams (Caps: 3.27; NYR: 2.44). Advantage: Caps.
Defense: Unlike the offensive match-up, this one is a lot closer. The Rangers are sixth-best in the league at 2.58 goals allowed per game, while the Caps are 19th (2.93). New York clearly is a defense-first team that pays lot of attention to its own zone. In order for the Rangers to have a chance, they'll have to be at their best to slow the Caps' attack. Advantage: Rangers.
Special Teams: There's no David vs. Goliath here; it's Goliath (Caps' PP) vs. Goaliath (NYR's PK). As discussed yesterday, the Caps held the advantage in this category during the four regular-season meetings -- only allowing one power-play goal to New York in 15 chances. If the Caps keep up their power-play prowess, that will give them a monstrous momentum boost. Advantage: Caps.
Goaltending: It's safe to give the advantage to Henrik Lundqvist (38-25-7, 2.43 GAA, .916, three shutouts) but it's not that easy. Yes, Jose Theodore's numbers (32-17-5, 2.87, .900, two shutouts) are not as daunting but there other factors at play here. One, Lundqvist played in 70 games this year -- and fatigue is a big factor in the postseason. Two, the defense in front of both goalies clearly are at play here, and although the Rangers have the advantage, it's not a big one. And three, should the back-ups be needed, I'll take rising star Simeon Varlamov over Stephen Valiquette any day. Advantage: Push.
Intangibles: The Caps learned a lot during a seven-game loss to the Philadelphia Flyers last spring and have been aching to right those wrongs ever since. Bruce Boudreau has coached a ton of playoff games in his career, mostly in the minors. But this is John Tortorella's first appearance in the postseason since 2007 and, other than the Tampa Bay Lightning's run to the Stanley Cup in 2004, he's never won a playoff series in the NHL. (He did guide the Rochester Americans to the 1996 Calder Cup, though.) While both teams play well at home (Caps: 29-9-3; Rangers: 26-11-4), the Caps have the advantage when it comes to road record (Caps: 21-15-5; NYR: 17-19-5). Advantage: Caps.
Overall: The Caps have been waiting all season to avenge their loss to the Flyers and, with all the expectations, they're not going to let history repeat itself. The Caps are just too skilled and determined to lose this series and have the firepower to prove it. In fact, it won't last too long either. Prediction: Caps in five.
Offense: The Caps clearly dominate this match-up by a mile. Not only do they have Alex Ovechkin (56 goals, 54 assists), Nicklas Backstrom (22 goals, 66 assists) and Alex Semin (34 goals, 45 assists) -- but defenseman Mike Green (31 goals, 42 assists) would have led the Rangers in goals. In fact, the Rangers' top goal scorer, Nik Antropov, registered all but seven of his 28 goals as a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Antropov also led New York in points with 59, meaning four Caps had more points than the Rangers' team leader. This translated to nearly a goal difference per game between the two teams (Caps: 3.27; NYR: 2.44). Advantage: Caps.
Defense: Unlike the offensive match-up, this one is a lot closer. The Rangers are sixth-best in the league at 2.58 goals allowed per game, while the Caps are 19th (2.93). New York clearly is a defense-first team that pays lot of attention to its own zone. In order for the Rangers to have a chance, they'll have to be at their best to slow the Caps' attack. Advantage: Rangers.
Special Teams: There's no David vs. Goliath here; it's Goliath (Caps' PP) vs. Goaliath (NYR's PK). As discussed yesterday, the Caps held the advantage in this category during the four regular-season meetings -- only allowing one power-play goal to New York in 15 chances. If the Caps keep up their power-play prowess, that will give them a monstrous momentum boost. Advantage: Caps.
Goaltending: It's safe to give the advantage to Henrik Lundqvist (38-25-7, 2.43 GAA, .916, three shutouts) but it's not that easy. Yes, Jose Theodore's numbers (32-17-5, 2.87, .900, two shutouts) are not as daunting but there other factors at play here. One, Lundqvist played in 70 games this year -- and fatigue is a big factor in the postseason. Two, the defense in front of both goalies clearly are at play here, and although the Rangers have the advantage, it's not a big one. And three, should the back-ups be needed, I'll take rising star Simeon Varlamov over Stephen Valiquette any day. Advantage: Push.
Intangibles: The Caps learned a lot during a seven-game loss to the Philadelphia Flyers last spring and have been aching to right those wrongs ever since. Bruce Boudreau has coached a ton of playoff games in his career, mostly in the minors. But this is John Tortorella's first appearance in the postseason since 2007 and, other than the Tampa Bay Lightning's run to the Stanley Cup in 2004, he's never won a playoff series in the NHL. (He did guide the Rochester Americans to the 1996 Calder Cup, though.) While both teams play well at home (Caps: 29-9-3; Rangers: 26-11-4), the Caps have the advantage when it comes to road record (Caps: 21-15-5; NYR: 17-19-5). Advantage: Caps.
Overall: The Caps have been waiting all season to avenge their loss to the Flyers and, with all the expectations, they're not going to let history repeat itself. The Caps are just too skilled and determined to lose this series and have the firepower to prove it. In fact, it won't last too long either. Prediction: Caps in five.
Adopt the Caps
Cycle Like the Sedins is running a very cool feature called Hockey Orphan in which bloggers argue why wondering fans should adopt their team. Today's entry, the Washington Capitals, penned by yours truly.
In the spirit of playoffs, you also can read about the New York Rangers or an index of the entire series.
Check it out!
In the spirit of playoffs, you also can read about the New York Rangers or an index of the entire series.
Check it out!
2009 First-Round Picks
It's time for another round of (quick) picks by Mr. Cleo.
Eastern Conference
Boston Bruins over Montreal Canadiens in five: Unlike last year's meeting, when the Habs were the top team and the Bruins the upstart, this one won't be close and only a home win will save Montreal from a sweep.
Caps over New York Rangers in five: A full preview of this series will appear separately.
New Jersey Devils over Carolina Hurricanes in seven: The 'Canes come in as the hotter team, but something says Martin Brodeur will get his act together for the series. It'll be a dogfight, though.
Pittsburgh Penguins over Philadelphia Flyers in seven: The Keystone State battle will be a series for the ages, and Mr. Cleo says the outcome will be the same as it was last spring.
Western Conference
San Jose Sharks over Anaheim Ducks in six: Although I'm not 100 percent sold that the Sharks will win the Cup, I do know that they will advance past a very game Ducks team. (Bad pun not intended.)
Detroit Red Wings over Columbus Blue Jackets in five: The Wings, although not that hot, are still too powerful for the upstart Jackets. While Columbus gets kudos for making their first playoff appearance and for Steve Mason, the defending champs aren't going out like this.
St. Louis Blues over Vancouver Canucks in six: The Blues have been playing playoff hockey for the last month and practically repeated the worst-to-playoffs journey the Caps made last spring. But, unlike the Caps, they'll advance past the first round thanks to a cohesive team and lots of good goaltending by Chris "don't call me the other" Mason.
Chicago Blackhawks over Calgary Flames in seven: The site of another red out, the United Center has given the Hawks new life at home ice. They've just got too much going for them to lose in the first round as they win the greatly-named goalie match-up of the Bulin Wall vs. Kipper.
Note: Before the season started, Mr. Cleo wrote that the Dallas Stars would win the Stanley Cup. That, obviously, was way off base. Overall, Mr. Cleo picked 10 of the 16 playoff teams and only two of the six division winners (Caps and Red Wings). Let's hope the playoffs go a little better.
Eastern Conference
Boston Bruins over Montreal Canadiens in five: Unlike last year's meeting, when the Habs were the top team and the Bruins the upstart, this one won't be close and only a home win will save Montreal from a sweep.
Caps over New York Rangers in five: A full preview of this series will appear separately.
New Jersey Devils over Carolina Hurricanes in seven: The 'Canes come in as the hotter team, but something says Martin Brodeur will get his act together for the series. It'll be a dogfight, though.
Pittsburgh Penguins over Philadelphia Flyers in seven: The Keystone State battle will be a series for the ages, and Mr. Cleo says the outcome will be the same as it was last spring.
Western Conference
San Jose Sharks over Anaheim Ducks in six: Although I'm not 100 percent sold that the Sharks will win the Cup, I do know that they will advance past a very game Ducks team. (Bad pun not intended.)
Detroit Red Wings over Columbus Blue Jackets in five: The Wings, although not that hot, are still too powerful for the upstart Jackets. While Columbus gets kudos for making their first playoff appearance and for Steve Mason, the defending champs aren't going out like this.
St. Louis Blues over Vancouver Canucks in six: The Blues have been playing playoff hockey for the last month and practically repeated the worst-to-playoffs journey the Caps made last spring. But, unlike the Caps, they'll advance past the first round thanks to a cohesive team and lots of good goaltending by Chris "don't call me the other" Mason.
Chicago Blackhawks over Calgary Flames in seven: The site of another red out, the United Center has given the Hawks new life at home ice. They've just got too much going for them to lose in the first round as they win the greatly-named goalie match-up of the Bulin Wall vs. Kipper.
Note: Before the season started, Mr. Cleo wrote that the Dallas Stars would win the Stanley Cup. That, obviously, was way off base. Overall, Mr. Cleo picked 10 of the 16 playoff teams and only two of the six division winners (Caps and Red Wings). Let's hope the playoffs go a little better.
April 13, 2009
On Special Teams, Caps Overpower Rangers
The key match-up in the Caps-Rangers series clearly is the Caps' second-ranked power play (25.2 percent) against the Rangers' league-best penalty kill (87.8 percent). In the reverse match-up, it's a battle of the mediocre (Caps are 80.6 on the PK) and the horrible (NYR penultimate 13.9 PP).
In the teams' four match-ups this season, though, it was a no contest: the Caps overpowered the Rangers on special teams. The Caps power play went 4-15 (26.7 percent), thus making the Rangers a very average 73.3 percent on the PK.
Meanwhile, the Caps killed off all but one of the Rangers' 15 power plays (93.3 percent) -- meaning New York went just 1-15 with the extra man (6.7 percent). If that trend holds, the Caps have an even bigger advantage than advertised.
In case you're curious, the Caps went 22.9 percent on the power play last spring against the Philadelphia Flyers after converting 18.8 percent with the extra-man last regular season.
In the teams' four match-ups this season, though, it was a no contest: the Caps overpowered the Rangers on special teams. The Caps power play went 4-15 (26.7 percent), thus making the Rangers a very average 73.3 percent on the PK.
Meanwhile, the Caps killed off all but one of the Rangers' 15 power plays (93.3 percent) -- meaning New York went just 1-15 with the extra man (6.7 percent). If that trend holds, the Caps have an even bigger advantage than advertised.
In case you're curious, the Caps went 22.9 percent on the power play last spring against the Philadelphia Flyers after converting 18.8 percent with the extra-man last regular season.
April 12, 2009
Playoffs, Patrick Division Linked Forever
With the Caps' sloppy 7-4 loss to the Florida Panthers, the red, white and blue will be hosting a former Patrick Division rival, the New York Rangers, in the first round of the 2009 playoffs -- marking the second straight postseason this has transpired. In fact, only two times (1998 and 2003) have the Caps managed to avoid a Patrick Division rival in a single postseason.
The Caps and Rangers have split four previous playoff meetings, the most recent in 1994 -- when the Rangers only needed five games to best the Caps on the way to winning the Stanley Cup. The Caps won, 4-2, in 1994 and 4-1 in 1990. The Rangers bested the Caps in six games in the 1986 Patrick Division finals and the only time the Caps had home-ice advantage.
Furthering the Patrick Division connection, every Caps' postseason hat trick has come against a former rival and only one against, to Ottawa's Daniel Afredsson, fails to conform to that rule.
This year's meeting should start Thursday night at Verizon Center, but that will be confirmed later today by the NHL. NBC has announced that it will air game two Saturday at 1 p.m. Therefore, the two games in New York should take place Monday (game three) and Wednesday (game four). That would put game five back on Friday or Saturday.
Note: Kudos to the Detroit Red Wings for locking up Johan Franzen to a long-term deal.
The Caps and Rangers have split four previous playoff meetings, the most recent in 1994 -- when the Rangers only needed five games to best the Caps on the way to winning the Stanley Cup. The Caps won, 4-2, in 1994 and 4-1 in 1990. The Rangers bested the Caps in six games in the 1986 Patrick Division finals and the only time the Caps had home-ice advantage.
Furthering the Patrick Division connection, every Caps' postseason hat trick has come against a former rival and only one against, to Ottawa's Daniel Afredsson, fails to conform to that rule.
This year's meeting should start Thursday night at Verizon Center, but that will be confirmed later today by the NHL. NBC has announced that it will air game two Saturday at 1 p.m. Therefore, the two games in New York should take place Monday (game three) and Wednesday (game four). That would put game five back on Friday or Saturday.
Note: Kudos to the Detroit Red Wings for locking up Johan Franzen to a long-term deal.
April 8, 2009
Record Opportunities Ahead
The Caps were off today, save for a meeting, and are back in action tomorrow night vs. the Tampa Bay Lightning (7:30 p.m., CSN). If the Caps win, they would clinch the second seed in the Eastern Conference. But they've also got an opportunity to break some records.
A win would give the Caps 108 points, breaking the franchise record of 107 set in 1985-86. It also would give the Caps 50 wins, tying the same 1985-86 team in the record books. And it would give the Caps a regular-season sweep of the Lightning for the first time in franchise history.
With one more tally, Alex Ovechkin would record his 219th career goal -- putting him third all-time in franchise history behind Peter Bondra (472) and Mike Gartner (397). With 200 assists, he's nearly halfway to Michal Pivonka's franchise record of 418. With five more points, Ovechkin would register the second-most points in franchise history and break his career high of 112 set last season.
The Caps finish the regular season Saturday night on the road against the Florida Panthers.
Note: My next blog post probably won't be published until Sunday, April 12.
A win would give the Caps 108 points, breaking the franchise record of 107 set in 1985-86. It also would give the Caps 50 wins, tying the same 1985-86 team in the record books. And it would give the Caps a regular-season sweep of the Lightning for the first time in franchise history.
With one more tally, Alex Ovechkin would record his 219th career goal -- putting him third all-time in franchise history behind Peter Bondra (472) and Mike Gartner (397). With 200 assists, he's nearly halfway to Michal Pivonka's franchise record of 418. With five more points, Ovechkin would register the second-most points in franchise history and break his career high of 112 set last season.
The Caps finish the regular season Saturday night on the road against the Florida Panthers.
Note: My next blog post probably won't be published until Sunday, April 12.
Backstrom Makes the Caps Go Round
One sentence in today's Washington Post story about the Caps' 4-2 win in Atlanta yesterday highlighted something that's been known around these parts for a while: Nicklas Backstrom is a budding superstar.
Backstrom has quietly amassed an assist total (118, with two games left) in his first two years that ranks among the all-time greats. Thanks to Mike Vogel, we know that his total is ninth-best for a player's freshmen and sophomore campaigns in the NHL. The list:
Backstrom has been able to become an elite center in the NHL very quickly and he's just 21 years old. He's clearly one of the franchise's building blocks and has so many attributes to praise. The only thing bad about him is that the Caps can't clone him to play on other lines.
Boudreau again tinkered with his forward lines as he continued to search for balance heading into the playoffs. The new combinations played to mixed reviews. Ovechkin, Fedorov and Semin -- the unit that was dominant for Team Russia at last year's world championships -- struggled. But the second line of Tomas Fleischmann, Nicklas Backstrom and Viktor Kozlov soared.
Backstrom has quietly amassed an assist total (118, with two games left) in his first two years that ranks among the all-time greats. Thanks to Mike Vogel, we know that his total is ninth-best for a player's freshmen and sophomore campaigns in the NHL. The list:
Wayne Gretzky (195)
Peter Stastny (163)
Mario Lemieux (150)
Sidney Crosby (147)
Kent Nilsson (135)
Denis Savard (134)
Mike Rogers (126)
Peter Forsberg (121)
Nicklas Backstrom (118)
Peter Stastny (163)
Mario Lemieux (150)
Sidney Crosby (147)
Kent Nilsson (135)
Denis Savard (134)
Mike Rogers (126)
Peter Forsberg (121)
Nicklas Backstrom (118)
Backstrom has been able to become an elite center in the NHL very quickly and he's just 21 years old. He's clearly one of the franchise's building blocks and has so many attributes to praise. The only thing bad about him is that the Caps can't clone him to play on other lines.
April 7, 2009
Caps Nearly Clinch Second
Tonight's 4-2 win by the Caps, combined with an ugly 4-1 loss by the New Jersey Devils in Toronto, might have sewn up the second seed in the Eastern Conference for the red, white and blue. The Caps need just one point to make that official, but considering they've been able to scratch out ugly wins lately (going 6-2-2 over the last 10), while Devils are falling apart (3-6-1), it might be a formality.
The good news is that Tomas Fleischmann notched a goal in a second straight game, bringing his season total to 19. Nick Backstrom got two more assists (63) as did Alex Ovechkin (53).
Their opponent when the playoffs start next week is uncertain. The Pittsburgh Penguins, Montreal Canadiens and N.Y. Rangers are flipping order by the day and only the Pens have clinched a spot so far. That part will come down to the wire.
And the surging Carolina Hurricanes, who might lock up the fourth seed, beat the N.Y. Islanders, 9-0, tonight. Ouch.
The good news is that Tomas Fleischmann notched a goal in a second straight game, bringing his season total to 19. Nick Backstrom got two more assists (63) as did Alex Ovechkin (53).
Their opponent when the playoffs start next week is uncertain. The Pittsburgh Penguins, Montreal Canadiens and N.Y. Rangers are flipping order by the day and only the Pens have clinched a spot so far. That part will come down to the wire.
And the surging Carolina Hurricanes, who might lock up the fourth seed, beat the N.Y. Islanders, 9-0, tonight. Ouch.
April 6, 2009
Now Launching: STC Wear
Now that the Caps are assured of a playoff spot, it's time to get your STC Wear to don once the postseason begins. Check out the gallery below or visit the store.
Three Games, Much Still to Do
Now that they're officially division champs (meaning these shirts can be sold), there are still things to be determined before the playoffs start for the Caps next week at Verizon Center.
Most importantly, the Caps are trying to secure the second seed in the East. If they win out, that spot is theirs. But the Caps need to stay at the top of their game on the road against Atlanta, Tampa and Florida to check that one off their list. Their only competition, the New Jersey Devils, finish with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Ottawa Senators and Carolina Hurricanes. The Devils, after a wrenched second half of March, have won two straight. It won't be easy.
Additionally, the Caps must set their playoff lineup. One person who should be in there is Keith Aucoin. In fact, some would argue (myself included) that he deserves it more than Michael Nylander. Want proof?
Aucoin has recorded a point in four of his last five games with the Capitals (two goals, three assists), while Nylander has exactly one multiple-point game since Feb. 3 at New Jersey -- and that was yesterday. Aucoin has worked hard in every game he's played, made a difference and shown he wants to stay. None of that applies to Nylander.
And then there's the payroll savings (for next season). Nylander is due to make $5.5 million while Aucoin is set for $500,000. I'm sure the Caps could use that $5 million on one of these guys.
Also, did anybody see this picture in the Washington Post today? It's a little odd that Alex Semin isn't celebrating as much as Alex Ovechkin and Sergei Fedorov. Let's hope it's the camera angle and not something else.
Finally, it's pretty amazing that the Caps will have lost nearly 400 man-games to injury this season, yet will finish with at least 10 more points than last year -- when they "only" lost 231. There are many reasons why, but tops among them is the maturity of their players and the vast improvement of Mike Green. Next year, with hopefully a healthier roster, the Caps could soar even higher.
For the moment, let's enjoy the last three games and the playoffs.
Most importantly, the Caps are trying to secure the second seed in the East. If they win out, that spot is theirs. But the Caps need to stay at the top of their game on the road against Atlanta, Tampa and Florida to check that one off their list. Their only competition, the New Jersey Devils, finish with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Ottawa Senators and Carolina Hurricanes. The Devils, after a wrenched second half of March, have won two straight. It won't be easy.
Additionally, the Caps must set their playoff lineup. One person who should be in there is Keith Aucoin. In fact, some would argue (myself included) that he deserves it more than Michael Nylander. Want proof?
Aucoin has recorded a point in four of his last five games with the Capitals (two goals, three assists), while Nylander has exactly one multiple-point game since Feb. 3 at New Jersey -- and that was yesterday. Aucoin has worked hard in every game he's played, made a difference and shown he wants to stay. None of that applies to Nylander.
And then there's the payroll savings (for next season). Nylander is due to make $5.5 million while Aucoin is set for $500,000. I'm sure the Caps could use that $5 million on one of these guys.
Also, did anybody see this picture in the Washington Post today? It's a little odd that Alex Semin isn't celebrating as much as Alex Ovechkin and Sergei Fedorov. Let's hope it's the camera angle and not something else.
Finally, it's pretty amazing that the Caps will have lost nearly 400 man-games to injury this season, yet will finish with at least 10 more points than last year -- when they "only" lost 231. There are many reasons why, but tops among them is the maturity of their players and the vast improvement of Mike Green. Next year, with hopefully a healthier roster, the Caps could soar even higher.
For the moment, let's enjoy the last three games and the playoffs.
April 3, 2009
Sabres Stand Between Caps, Clinching
Just one point stands between the Caps and a second straight Southeast Division title. That means a win or or any OT result against the Buffalo Sabres (7 p.m., CSN) will do the trick.
Most likely, Alex Ovechkin will join Sergei Fedorov and Viktor Kozlov on an all-Russian top line. Countryman Simeon Varlamov (3-0, 1.74 goals against average, .939 save percentage) is expected to get the start. The other lines play out thusly:
John Erskine will be a healthy scratch.
One more point by Backstrom in the last five games will assure each of Washington's top four scorers -- Ovechkin, Backstrom, Semin and Green -- of averaging more than a point per game for the season. No other NHL team has their top four scorers averaging more than a point per game and it has never happened on a Caps team. The red, white and blue has three of the top nine players in the league in points per game (Ovechkin, Semin and Green) and four of the top 13 (Backstrom). The last time the Caps had four players with 70-plus points was 1992-93.
The Caps have won two of the three meetings this season, but badly trails the all-time series, 35-75-15-1, including a 17-36-9-1 record at home. The Caps haven't won three games against the Sabres in a season since 2002-03 (3-1-0) and haven't won three in a row against the Sabres since the 2002-03 season.
By the way, Jose Theodore (30-16-5) is just the third Capital goaltender -- joining Jim Carey and Olaf Kolzig, who both won the Vezina Trophy -- to win 30 games in a season. Kolzig passed the 30-win plateau five times, but his career-high total of 41 came during the season he was honored as the NHL's top goalie. Carey, meanwhile, only won 30 games once -- and captured the Vezina that season (1995-96).
Finally, don't forget to register for Fan Appreciation Week. The prizes include the annual "jersey off our backs" promotion -- with one lucky fan receiving a signed Ovechkin sweater.
Most likely, Alex Ovechkin will join Sergei Fedorov and Viktor Kozlov on an all-Russian top line. Countryman Simeon Varlamov (3-0, 1.74 goals against average, .939 save percentage) is expected to get the start. The other lines play out thusly:
Brooks Laich-Nicklas Backstrom-Alex Semin
Tomas Fleischmann-Michael Nylander-Eric Fehr
David Steckel-Keith Aucoin-Matt Bradley
Tomas Fleischmann-Michael Nylander-Eric Fehr
David Steckel-Keith Aucoin-Matt Bradley
John Erskine will be a healthy scratch.
One more point by Backstrom in the last five games will assure each of Washington's top four scorers -- Ovechkin, Backstrom, Semin and Green -- of averaging more than a point per game for the season. No other NHL team has their top four scorers averaging more than a point per game and it has never happened on a Caps team. The red, white and blue has three of the top nine players in the league in points per game (Ovechkin, Semin and Green) and four of the top 13 (Backstrom). The last time the Caps had four players with 70-plus points was 1992-93.
The Caps have won two of the three meetings this season, but badly trails the all-time series, 35-75-15-1, including a 17-36-9-1 record at home. The Caps haven't won three games against the Sabres in a season since 2002-03 (3-1-0) and haven't won three in a row against the Sabres since the 2002-03 season.
By the way, Jose Theodore (30-16-5) is just the third Capital goaltender -- joining Jim Carey and Olaf Kolzig, who both won the Vezina Trophy -- to win 30 games in a season. Kolzig passed the 30-win plateau five times, but his career-high total of 41 came during the season he was honored as the NHL's top goalie. Carey, meanwhile, only won 30 games once -- and captured the Vezina that season (1995-96).
Finally, don't forget to register for Fan Appreciation Week. The prizes include the annual "jersey off our backs" promotion -- with one lucky fan receiving a signed Ovechkin sweater.
April 2, 2009
Milestone Madness
The Caps' 5-3 win over the New York Islanders last night was full of many notable moments.
The wonderful:
* The Caps topped the 100-point mark for just the fourth time in club history. With five games left, they need six points (three wins) to tie the record (107, set in 1985-86) and seven for history.
* Green has 70 points on the season, 11 shy of Larry Murphy's club record (1986-87) by a blueliner. It's the most by an NHL defenseman since 2005-06 (Nicklas Lidstrom and Sergei Zubov). The NHL record for points by a defenseman in one season is 139, set by the great Bobby Orr during the 1970-71 season (78-game schedule).
* Green's two power play goals gave him 18 on the year, breaking the old d-man record held by Scott Stevens (1984-85). The club record for any player is 22 (Alex Ovechkin last season and Peter Bondra, 2000-01. Green and Ovechkin are tied in PPGs this year, one behind Thomas Vanek and Mike Cammalleri for the NHL lead.
* Mike Green scored two goals and has 30 on the season, becoming just the second Cap defenseman to break that plateau. (Kevin Hatcher got 34 in 1992-93, also the last time it's been done in the NHL.) Green also is the second Cap this season to break the 30-goal mark, joining Alex Ovechkin and his NHL-best 54.
And the troublesome:
* Alex Semin has been stuck on 29 goals since March 14. In fact, he has exactly one tally since reeling off a six-game goal streak from Feb. 26-March 8. Over the last nine games, Sasha has eight assists. I noted last night that he seems to be taking more time to shoot the puck lately and doesn't seem as free-flowing as before. His passes are still pretty good but his shots are way off the mark for the most part.
* Brooks Laich (19 goals) and Tomas Fleishmann (17) still have a shot at reaching the 20-goal plateau, but Flash hasn't scored or registered a point since Feb. 28 (14 games). Laich needs two goals to tie the career high he set last season and Flash already has passed his career-high total of 10 he set last season.
“I just wish poor Flash would get rewarded once," Coach Bruce Boudreau said. "He goes to the net, he has a great chance; he is the guy who screens the goalie for Mike's second goal. I mean eventually he will get rewarded. Eric [Fehr] made a great play on Keith's [Aucoin] goal by getting his stick in the way and redirecting the puck. All of those things are good and signs of guys coming out of slumps."
The wonderful:
* The Caps topped the 100-point mark for just the fourth time in club history. With five games left, they need six points (three wins) to tie the record (107, set in 1985-86) and seven for history.
* Green has 70 points on the season, 11 shy of Larry Murphy's club record (1986-87) by a blueliner. It's the most by an NHL defenseman since 2005-06 (Nicklas Lidstrom and Sergei Zubov). The NHL record for points by a defenseman in one season is 139, set by the great Bobby Orr during the 1970-71 season (78-game schedule).
* Green's two power play goals gave him 18 on the year, breaking the old d-man record held by Scott Stevens (1984-85). The club record for any player is 22 (Alex Ovechkin last season and Peter Bondra, 2000-01. Green and Ovechkin are tied in PPGs this year, one behind Thomas Vanek and Mike Cammalleri for the NHL lead.
* Mike Green scored two goals and has 30 on the season, becoming just the second Cap defenseman to break that plateau. (Kevin Hatcher got 34 in 1992-93, also the last time it's been done in the NHL.) Green also is the second Cap this season to break the 30-goal mark, joining Alex Ovechkin and his NHL-best 54.
And the troublesome:
* Alex Semin has been stuck on 29 goals since March 14. In fact, he has exactly one tally since reeling off a six-game goal streak from Feb. 26-March 8. Over the last nine games, Sasha has eight assists. I noted last night that he seems to be taking more time to shoot the puck lately and doesn't seem as free-flowing as before. His passes are still pretty good but his shots are way off the mark for the most part.
* Brooks Laich (19 goals) and Tomas Fleishmann (17) still have a shot at reaching the 20-goal plateau, but Flash hasn't scored or registered a point since Feb. 28 (14 games). Laich needs two goals to tie the career high he set last season and Flash already has passed his career-high total of 10 he set last season.
“I just wish poor Flash would get rewarded once," Coach Bruce Boudreau said. "He goes to the net, he has a great chance; he is the guy who screens the goalie for Mike's second goal. I mean eventually he will get rewarded. Eric [Fehr] made a great play on Keith's [Aucoin] goal by getting his stick in the way and redirecting the puck. All of those things are good and signs of guys coming out of slumps."
April 1, 2009
Out of Town Scoreboard Favors Caps
The Penguins obliterated the New Jersey Devils tonight, 6-1, and Martin Brodeur got lit up for every goal. In fact, New Jersey only has three points since beating Chicago on March 17 (eight games).
Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs edged the Philadelphia Flyers, 3-2, in another favorable result for the Caps.
What It Means: The Caps have a three-point lead on the Devils in the race for second in the East. The Caps host the Buffalo Sabres on Friday, while New Jersey hosts the Tampa Bay Lightning that night and then travels to Buffalo on Saturday night.
Philly, currently fourth in the East, might lose its home-ice advantage in a potential series with Carolina if the Hurricanes stay hot.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs edged the Philadelphia Flyers, 3-2, in another favorable result for the Caps.
What It Means: The Caps have a three-point lead on the Devils in the race for second in the East. The Caps host the Buffalo Sabres on Friday, while New Jersey hosts the Tampa Bay Lightning that night and then travels to Buffalo on Saturday night.
Philly, currently fourth in the East, might lose its home-ice advantage in a potential series with Carolina if the Hurricanes stay hot.
Caps-Isles Live
Welcome to Verizon Center, where the Caps have a chance to sweep the Isles.
First Period
The Caps have accrued some good shots, but unfortunately, most missed the net. The Isles had a few good shots too. But overall the Caps are out-of-sync. This is a team that, despite the fact that it's 6-2-2 in the last 10 games, is still looking for momentum going into the playoffs.
Neither team is playing well, but then again, the Isles are the worst team in the league. The Caps need to step it up and start playing like a playoff team.
The Isles got a power play after Sergei Fedorov got called for holding. The Isles had gotten a breakaway and Fedorov and Semin both looked horrible in getting back after New York got a mini-breakaway.
That slow-footedness cost the Caps. After yet-another failed clear, Kyle Okposo (18th) fired a shot from the wing with lots of traffic in front to beat Jose Theodore. There were two things wrong with the play. One, the puck should have been cleared and two, Okposo was way too open. This isn't starting off well for the Caps, who definitely look disinterested so far.
The Caps apparently think this whole April Fool's thing means they don't have to play their best -- and if they don't improve, they will be getting a scary reality check.
After one: Isles 1, Caps 0.
Second Period
The stanza got off to quite the start. First, Frans Nielsen scored for the Isles, finishing a sweet two-on-one with Jeff Schultz stuck between the two. The play was reviewed because the puck went off his skate, but it was not a kicking motion.
About a minute later, John Erskine fought Joel Rechlicz in an attempt to wake up the Caps. And it worked.
Mike Green checked Andy Hibbert hard into the boards as the game picked up intensity. Green was called for charging and the Isles protested to a hit that might have been a bit dirty. Tim Jackman took on Schultz (!) and both were called for fighting. It certainly turned the Caps around.
After successfully killed off the penalty, the Caps struck back. Fedorov, behind the net, fed a cutting Alex Ovechkin in a flashback from 10 years ago to cut the Isles' lead to one goal.
The torrid pace definitely continued from there. With Michael Nylander, Viktor Kozlov and Brooks Laich on the ice, the Caps spent about a minute in the offensive zone. They didn't score, but it certainly showed that they've gotten whatever message Coach Bruce Boudreau delivered during the first intermission.
Moments later, the Caps converted. Keith Aucoin unleashed a wrister from the slot that Isles netminder Joey MacDonald saved, but Aucoin gathered the juicy rebound and evened the game at two. It was Aucoin's first goal since March 2008 (17 NHL games) and his first as a Cap. It's a whole new game.
Fedorov has been demoted to a line with Matt Bradley and David Steckel, while the Semin-Ovechkin-Backstrom line has been reunited. Aucoin is playing with Kozlov and Laich. And Nylander isn't getting much ice time at all. The lines seem to be changing by the shift, though.
The Caps definitely are playing with a purpose, storming the crease, taking smart shorts and playing like they mean it. Jose Theodore has made some unbelievable saves as well to keep the game even. The Caps have gotten some great opportunities, though.
After two: Caps 2, Isles 2.
Third Period
The Caps kept up the intensity as the stanza began, but it was the Isles that struck first. Richard Park (13th) got a mini-breakaway and put a backhand top shelf on Theo to give the visitors the lead. He was way too open for my liking.
The Caps got this close on an amazing pass/fake shot by Backstrom, but the puck ever so slightly jumped on Semin and he couldn't put it past MacDonald. Semin's subsequent efforts were stopped as well. Laich has been doing a good job of parking himself in front of the net.
The Caps got a power play at 7:09, but it lasted all of nine seconds as Brian Pothier was called for interference. The ensuing four-on-four didn't lead to anything, but there was a scrum in the corner after a close play in front of the Isles' net -- which led to another Caps' extra-man advantage.
Semin looks like he's pressing (again), taking too long to corral passes before he shoots and missing the net way too frequently. He did redeem himself a bit on the power play, though. Backstrom gathered the puck along the boards, passed it to a cutting Semin -- who then fired it to a wide-open Green for the game-tying tally.
The goal was Green's 29th of the season and his 17th on the power play, tying the franchise record. It also was Backstrom's 60th assist.
The Isles thought they tied it up but the tally immediately was waived off because of serious contact with Jose Theodore, which gave the Caps another power play. Just 12 seconds after Jackman was sent to the box, Green struck again after a great shot from the point. Tomas Fleischmann provided a screen in front of MacDonald. It's Green's 30th goal of the season and 18th on the power play, the latter a Caps' record. It also gives him more goal than Semin in fewer games. And just like that, the Caps are ahead.
The Isles almost tied it up when a funny bounce found its way on Park's stick, but Theo was there to keep it out of the net. The Caps kept the pressure on, racking up the shots and eclipsing the 40-shot plateau. But the shots have been smart and at close-range (for the most part), which is the biggest difference in why the Caps have come on strong as the game has progressed.
MacDonald vacated the net with just over a minute left and it didn't take long for the Caps to strike gold. Backstrom netted his 22nd of the year to salt away a much-needed (and sometimes in doubt) Caps' victory.
The Caps registered 23 shots on goal in the final stanza. Nylander only got 8:03 of ice time in the entire game, and less than a minute in the third period.
Final: Caps 5, Isles 3.
First Period
The Caps have accrued some good shots, but unfortunately, most missed the net. The Isles had a few good shots too. But overall the Caps are out-of-sync. This is a team that, despite the fact that it's 6-2-2 in the last 10 games, is still looking for momentum going into the playoffs.
Neither team is playing well, but then again, the Isles are the worst team in the league. The Caps need to step it up and start playing like a playoff team.
The Isles got a power play after Sergei Fedorov got called for holding. The Isles had gotten a breakaway and Fedorov and Semin both looked horrible in getting back after New York got a mini-breakaway.
That slow-footedness cost the Caps. After yet-another failed clear, Kyle Okposo (18th) fired a shot from the wing with lots of traffic in front to beat Jose Theodore. There were two things wrong with the play. One, the puck should have been cleared and two, Okposo was way too open. This isn't starting off well for the Caps, who definitely look disinterested so far.
The Caps apparently think this whole April Fool's thing means they don't have to play their best -- and if they don't improve, they will be getting a scary reality check.
After one: Isles 1, Caps 0.
Second Period
The stanza got off to quite the start. First, Frans Nielsen scored for the Isles, finishing a sweet two-on-one with Jeff Schultz stuck between the two. The play was reviewed because the puck went off his skate, but it was not a kicking motion.
About a minute later, John Erskine fought Joel Rechlicz in an attempt to wake up the Caps. And it worked.
Mike Green checked Andy Hibbert hard into the boards as the game picked up intensity. Green was called for charging and the Isles protested to a hit that might have been a bit dirty. Tim Jackman took on Schultz (!) and both were called for fighting. It certainly turned the Caps around.
After successfully killed off the penalty, the Caps struck back. Fedorov, behind the net, fed a cutting Alex Ovechkin in a flashback from 10 years ago to cut the Isles' lead to one goal.
The torrid pace definitely continued from there. With Michael Nylander, Viktor Kozlov and Brooks Laich on the ice, the Caps spent about a minute in the offensive zone. They didn't score, but it certainly showed that they've gotten whatever message Coach Bruce Boudreau delivered during the first intermission.
Moments later, the Caps converted. Keith Aucoin unleashed a wrister from the slot that Isles netminder Joey MacDonald saved, but Aucoin gathered the juicy rebound and evened the game at two. It was Aucoin's first goal since March 2008 (17 NHL games) and his first as a Cap. It's a whole new game.
Fedorov has been demoted to a line with Matt Bradley and David Steckel, while the Semin-Ovechkin-Backstrom line has been reunited. Aucoin is playing with Kozlov and Laich. And Nylander isn't getting much ice time at all. The lines seem to be changing by the shift, though.
The Caps definitely are playing with a purpose, storming the crease, taking smart shorts and playing like they mean it. Jose Theodore has made some unbelievable saves as well to keep the game even. The Caps have gotten some great opportunities, though.
After two: Caps 2, Isles 2.
Third Period
The Caps kept up the intensity as the stanza began, but it was the Isles that struck first. Richard Park (13th) got a mini-breakaway and put a backhand top shelf on Theo to give the visitors the lead. He was way too open for my liking.
The Caps got this close on an amazing pass/fake shot by Backstrom, but the puck ever so slightly jumped on Semin and he couldn't put it past MacDonald. Semin's subsequent efforts were stopped as well. Laich has been doing a good job of parking himself in front of the net.
The Caps got a power play at 7:09, but it lasted all of nine seconds as Brian Pothier was called for interference. The ensuing four-on-four didn't lead to anything, but there was a scrum in the corner after a close play in front of the Isles' net -- which led to another Caps' extra-man advantage.
Semin looks like he's pressing (again), taking too long to corral passes before he shoots and missing the net way too frequently. He did redeem himself a bit on the power play, though. Backstrom gathered the puck along the boards, passed it to a cutting Semin -- who then fired it to a wide-open Green for the game-tying tally.
The goal was Green's 29th of the season and his 17th on the power play, tying the franchise record. It also was Backstrom's 60th assist.
The Isles thought they tied it up but the tally immediately was waived off because of serious contact with Jose Theodore, which gave the Caps another power play. Just 12 seconds after Jackman was sent to the box, Green struck again after a great shot from the point. Tomas Fleischmann provided a screen in front of MacDonald. It's Green's 30th goal of the season and 18th on the power play, the latter a Caps' record. It also gives him more goal than Semin in fewer games. And just like that, the Caps are ahead.
The Isles almost tied it up when a funny bounce found its way on Park's stick, but Theo was there to keep it out of the net. The Caps kept the pressure on, racking up the shots and eclipsing the 40-shot plateau. But the shots have been smart and at close-range (for the most part), which is the biggest difference in why the Caps have come on strong as the game has progressed.
MacDonald vacated the net with just over a minute left and it didn't take long for the Caps to strike gold. Backstrom netted his 22nd of the year to salt away a much-needed (and sometimes in doubt) Caps' victory.
The Caps registered 23 shots on goal in the final stanza. Nylander only got 8:03 of ice time in the entire game, and less than a minute in the third period.
Final: Caps 5, Isles 3.
Caution: Sweep Ahead
The Caps (46-23-7, 99 points, second in Eastern Conference) host the New York Islanders (25-41-9, 59 points, NHL's worst team) tonight and, with a win tonight, would complete a season sweep of the "other" New York team. The Caps have 36 season sweeps in club history against teams that they have played three or more times. The Caps have swept the Islanders five times previously (the most against any opponent), the last coming during the 2002-03 season. The Caps also have swept Montreal four times and have swept Vancouver, Ottawa and Colorado three times each. (The red, white and blue goes for its first sweep of the Tampa Bay Lightning on April 9 in the regular season's penultimate game.)
The Caps are 6-2-2 in their last 10 games and 27-9-2 at Verizon Center. The Isles, meanwhile, are 4-4-2 in their last 10 and 9-26-3 on the road. Washington leads the all-time series, 83-79-13-2, including a 43-33-11-1 advantage at home.
The teams' first period stats provide a microcosm of the mismatch. The Caps are 32-7-2 when scoring first and 29-3-3 when leading after the first period. The Isles 6-29-7 when allowing the first goal and 4-20-5 when trailing after the first period. The Caps have outscored their opponents, 79-66, in the first period while the Isles have been outscored, 67-54, in the initial stanza.
Nicklas Backstrom continues to increase his career-best assists total. One helper tonight gives him 60, which would tie him for fifth all-time in franchise history for a single season. Dennis Maruk holds the record (76) and Adam Oates is second with 69. Backstrom has a shot at eclipsing Michal Pivonka's third-best total of 65.
A win tonight practically gives the Caps a second-straight division title. However, even if they secure two points tonight, the Caps would still need a Carolina loss to the N.Y. Rangers tomorrow night or a win over the Buffalo Sabres Friday night to make it official. A win tonight also would earn the Caps the fourth 100-point season in franchise history.
Milan Jurcina will be the odd-man out on defense tonight.
Jose Theodore is expected to get the nod in goal tonight. Theo (29-16-5, 2.80 GAA, .902 save percentage) is 21-10-4 (2.58, .911) since Dec. 23.
The Caps are 6-2-2 in their last 10 games and 27-9-2 at Verizon Center. The Isles, meanwhile, are 4-4-2 in their last 10 and 9-26-3 on the road. Washington leads the all-time series, 83-79-13-2, including a 43-33-11-1 advantage at home.
The teams' first period stats provide a microcosm of the mismatch. The Caps are 32-7-2 when scoring first and 29-3-3 when leading after the first period. The Isles 6-29-7 when allowing the first goal and 4-20-5 when trailing after the first period. The Caps have outscored their opponents, 79-66, in the first period while the Isles have been outscored, 67-54, in the initial stanza.
Nicklas Backstrom continues to increase his career-best assists total. One helper tonight gives him 60, which would tie him for fifth all-time in franchise history for a single season. Dennis Maruk holds the record (76) and Adam Oates is second with 69. Backstrom has a shot at eclipsing Michal Pivonka's third-best total of 65.
A win tonight practically gives the Caps a second-straight division title. However, even if they secure two points tonight, the Caps would still need a Carolina loss to the N.Y. Rangers tomorrow night or a win over the Buffalo Sabres Friday night to make it official. A win tonight also would earn the Caps the fourth 100-point season in franchise history.
Milan Jurcina will be the odd-man out on defense tonight.
Jose Theodore is expected to get the nod in goal tonight. Theo (29-16-5, 2.80 GAA, .902 save percentage) is 21-10-4 (2.58, .911) since Dec. 23.
Inside the Press Box: Off-Ice Officials
Storming the Crease is conducting a series of interviews with people who cover (or work for) the Caps and the NHL. You can find a link to the series archives on the right sidebar. Today's 20th installment: David Keon, the NHL's senior manager of public relations and part-time crew supervisor for the off-ice officials at Toronto's Air Canada Center.
1. Please take the readers behind the scenes. What are your pre-game preparations and interactions with the on-ice staff?
For the most part, there is not a lot of interaction with the on-ice officials. I arrive at the rink usually a couple hours prior to the game and touch base with most of the crew, which consists of about 15-16 people for each game. Each has their own duties to prepare for puck drop -- whether it is checking computers, goal lights, setting the game clock for warm-ups, checking the overhead cameras, etc. Most of the guys handle the same responsibilities on a nightly basis.
After warm-ups, the coaches provide the line-ups for that day's game, which are traded among coaches and the information is passed onto the announcers and the scorers in the press box. Once that happens, I usually take a copy to the referees' room, where I check in and see if there is anything they need information-wise before they take to the ice.
2. What is the procedure for a goal review? Please take us through the process and describe your interactions with the staff in Toronto.
In the event there is a review, either the video-goal judge or the on-ice officials request that a goal or possible goal be reviewed. Once the request has been made, we relay to the announcer to let the fans in the building know what is happening. Then the video goal judge and the hockey operations staff in Toronto look at the play to make a ruling.
At this stage, the referee usually puts on a headset, which allows him to talk to the video goal judge and the hockey-ops staff. They decide the outcome of the play. The ref usually lets me know the outcome before announcing it to the crowd, so we can get the process started and move on with the game.
3. We often hear about a change in scoring. Is every goal reviewed to confirm that it is scored correctly? How does that work?
Every goal is reviewed by the official scorer. At times, there are changes at the request of the scoring team or because the scorer finds another angle at intermission when he is allowed to use the video replay equipment to ensure that the correct calls have been made. At times, a goal is scored late in the game and review requests are made after the game. If the scorer has not left, he may look at it again or the team may request the league review the play the following day if they don't agree with the call.
4. What are some of your favorite hockey-related moments?
You hear a lot of things in the penalty box -- some funny, some not so funny, most of which I wouldn't repeat. My favorite moments have been working big playoff games. The intensity is incredible, the atmosphere electric.
One of the best was in the 1990s [April 27, 1994] in Buffalo when the Sabres defeated the New Jersey Devils 1-0 in the fourth OT. Dave Hannan scored on Martin Brodeur and it was a goal that needed to be reviewed as it barely touched the mesh under the crossbar. I was behind that goal and put the light on.
Earlier in the game, there were a couple close calls and a couple goals that were called back at my end with both Brodeur and Dominik Hasek in goal. At the end of the night (3 a.m.), I was exhausted but had seen one of the greatest playoff games ever played.
5. What occupies your time when you're not working games?
Off-ice officials have full-time jobs and are all normal everyday people. They get to watch a game they love and provide a service. But away from the rink, they are no different than any other hockey fan.
1. Please take the readers behind the scenes. What are your pre-game preparations and interactions with the on-ice staff?
For the most part, there is not a lot of interaction with the on-ice officials. I arrive at the rink usually a couple hours prior to the game and touch base with most of the crew, which consists of about 15-16 people for each game. Each has their own duties to prepare for puck drop -- whether it is checking computers, goal lights, setting the game clock for warm-ups, checking the overhead cameras, etc. Most of the guys handle the same responsibilities on a nightly basis.
After warm-ups, the coaches provide the line-ups for that day's game, which are traded among coaches and the information is passed onto the announcers and the scorers in the press box. Once that happens, I usually take a copy to the referees' room, where I check in and see if there is anything they need information-wise before they take to the ice.
2. What is the procedure for a goal review? Please take us through the process and describe your interactions with the staff in Toronto.
In the event there is a review, either the video-goal judge or the on-ice officials request that a goal or possible goal be reviewed. Once the request has been made, we relay to the announcer to let the fans in the building know what is happening. Then the video goal judge and the hockey operations staff in Toronto look at the play to make a ruling.
At this stage, the referee usually puts on a headset, which allows him to talk to the video goal judge and the hockey-ops staff. They decide the outcome of the play. The ref usually lets me know the outcome before announcing it to the crowd, so we can get the process started and move on with the game.
3. We often hear about a change in scoring. Is every goal reviewed to confirm that it is scored correctly? How does that work?
Every goal is reviewed by the official scorer. At times, there are changes at the request of the scoring team or because the scorer finds another angle at intermission when he is allowed to use the video replay equipment to ensure that the correct calls have been made. At times, a goal is scored late in the game and review requests are made after the game. If the scorer has not left, he may look at it again or the team may request the league review the play the following day if they don't agree with the call.
4. What are some of your favorite hockey-related moments?
You hear a lot of things in the penalty box -- some funny, some not so funny, most of which I wouldn't repeat. My favorite moments have been working big playoff games. The intensity is incredible, the atmosphere electric.
One of the best was in the 1990s [April 27, 1994] in Buffalo when the Sabres defeated the New Jersey Devils 1-0 in the fourth OT. Dave Hannan scored on Martin Brodeur and it was a goal that needed to be reviewed as it barely touched the mesh under the crossbar. I was behind that goal and put the light on.
Earlier in the game, there were a couple close calls and a couple goals that were called back at my end with both Brodeur and Dominik Hasek in goal. At the end of the night (3 a.m.), I was exhausted but had seen one of the greatest playoff games ever played.
5. What occupies your time when you're not working games?
Off-ice officials have full-time jobs and are all normal everyday people. They get to watch a game they love and provide a service. But away from the rink, they are no different than any other hockey fan.
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