What Have You Been Up To?

Not a lot, thanks for asking.

Capitals get a rare week off in many ways. This little lull has allowed the team to get in some much needed rest and healing in before their small stint on the road and a three game home stand. Viktor Kozlov and Sergei Fedorov were both absent from today's practice. Alex Ovechkin is still in Russia and his timetable to return on Sunday has not changed. Tom Poti skated today with the team, but it looks like he will have to get a few practices in before he can crack the line up. He pulled a groin muscle in the Penguin's game, this was the first time he took the ice since the injury.

The Caps will be on the road for the next two, visiting Buffalo and Ottawa before coming home to face their division rivals Carolina. It has been ten games since the Caps opened their season against Atlanta for them to meet the next divisional foe. During that time the Caps have renewed a rivalry with Pittsburgh and have gone on a three game western road swing.

Right now the Caps hold a tiny one point lead on the 'Canes for first in the division (actually the 'Canes take the slim lead after beating St. Louis tonight 1-0), so you know that game will be a good one at the Verizon Center on November 6. But first thing is first, Buffalo will prove to be a worthy opponent.

The Sabres will becoming off of a tough loss against Tampa Bay and Olie Kozlig, funny enough. After starting the season red hot, they have cooled since then losing their last three (one a shootout loss). They will be trying to get back their winning ways against the Capitals. The Caps are coming off of two hard fought wins.

The Caps need to play a strong road game and get some consistency under their belt.