Getting Closer

Capitals 3, Sabres 1
Scoresheet - Wash Post - Wash Times

The Capitals find themselves in a rather unique position for them. They could be in the hunt for a playoff spot whether they are first in the Southeast or not. The Caps played a hard working 60 minutes and propelled themselves to within 4 points for the 8th in the conference.

This mini race in the Southeast seems to be eclipsing the Sabres and the Flyers who are both slowly sliding down the standings. What is significant about this win is Buffalo needed to win this game to get themselves into a playoff spot. Maybe it was the looming season sweep of the Caps or the over aggresive play, but the Sabres overlooked the Washington squad.

Alex Ovechkin scores a pair as his quest continues for 60 goals (his 53rd and 54th). Nick Backstrom scored a goal that has him on a 2 game goal streak. Olie Kolzig played well, even registering an assist. Interesting observation on Ovie and Nick's first goals, they were scored with the puck along the ice instead of trying to strike the top corner.

The Caps are winning big games against teams that are expected to make the playoffs, like Buffalo, Boston and New Jersey. Plus it was nice to see them get this win at the HSBC Center as Bufallo always seem to give the Caps fits. There is no rest for the wicked though as the Caps have to walk into Boston and grab a win on Saturday before facing off against the Penguins back at home on Sunday in front of a national audience.

Speaking of which, I saw Sid "the Kid" Crosby's return and the Pens had won. But in the after game interview with Crosby he sounded like they had lost. He was clearly upset with himself after not scoring and getting only a single assist. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but I would think that a win is more important than any personal milestones. It was an interesting insight to Crosby's mindset. It seemed to me that he made some rather selfish comments.