Players are starting to converge in Arlington for the Capitals training camp. Already players like Anton Gustafsson, Matt Bradley, Boyd Gordon and John Erskine are already getting some morning ice time at Kettler Iceplex for individual workouts.
Other pro players have been working out with a few Caps like Jeff Halpern, goaltender Brent Johnson and minor-leaguer local Russell Smith. Those extra players have been told that Friday would be the last day they can work out with other Caps in the area as there will be enough players back in town to help with workouts.
Training camp dates have been released by the team. Rookie camp starts on Monday September 7. Veterans will report to camp officially on Saturday September 12.
What is starting to become a tradition, the rookie game against the Flyers will be on Friday September 11th in Voorhees New Jersey.
You can taste the hockey coming back.
Showing posts with label Johnson. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Johnson. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Johnny Signs With Pens
Brent Johnson signs with the Pittsburgh Penguins after becoming an unrestricted free agent this summer. For the Capitals, it is tough to see a good goaltender go. But the log jam of goaltenders in the system makes decisions easier for the Caps. It also gives Semyon Varlamov a chance to prove himself for an entire season.
Johnny experienced one of his best seasons last year with the Caps. Known mostly as a back up for Olaf Kolzig, he nearly took the number one job from summer signee Jose Theodore before injuries hindered his game. His season ended with the Capitals after he went for hip surgery in early February.
He maybe best remembered last season for his unbelievable save on a breaking Blake Wheeler on December 10th against the Boston Bruins.
If Johnson can stay healthy, he should be a good back up for Marc Andre Fluery in Pitt.
Johnny experienced one of his best seasons last year with the Caps. Known mostly as a back up for Olaf Kolzig, he nearly took the number one job from summer signee Jose Theodore before injuries hindered his game. His season ended with the Capitals after he went for hip surgery in early February.
He maybe best remembered last season for his unbelievable save on a breaking Blake Wheeler on December 10th against the Boston Bruins.
If Johnson can stay healthy, he should be a good back up for Marc Andre Fluery in Pitt.
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Atlanta Part Duex
Well, part six actually. The Capitals finish a home and home with the Atlanta Thrashers tonight finishing their six game series in what has to be the most interesting, if not perplexing, rivalry the Cap have had to date. The Thrashers have had a quiet confidence against Washington and it has taken an extraordinary effort for the boys in red, white and blue to turn things around.
Atlanta and Washington have both opened their seasons facing one another. Atlanta surprised the Caps with a 7-4 beat down that humbled the Caps and had us scratching our heads about Jose Theodore's standard of play. In the second game, it took an Alex Ovechkin four point night to secure the win, he had a hat trick and an assist.
It would be nearly three months before either team saw each other again. But when they did it was a rough and tumble affair and the Capitals' potent power play went 3 for 7 giving Michal Neuvirth his second straight win. The game was a bit closer than the Capitals might have liked, but it seemed the Caps had finally figured out their Georgia rivals.
Then Atlanta broke out the ugly jerseys and Kari Lehtenon broke out a picture perfect game, except maybe for one goal. They handed the struggling Caps a 5-1 loss and had us scratching our heads once more. Eric Fehr was the lone goal scorer, breaking the shut-out bid with only 1:15 left in the game.
On Sunday afternoon It looked as if Thrashers had the answer at the Verizon Center. The Caps looked sluggish and uninterested through the first two periods. Atlanta was beating them to the puck, winning battles, and just out working them. But the Caps made sure they won their final home game with a 4 goal third period. Again putting another twist in this divisional rivalry. I know, weird.
The season series has been anything but boring. Their games have been high scoring affairs, in fact the season series has shelled out 42 goals in all. It begs the question, which Capital team will show up tonight at Philips Arena? The determined talented one or the just-going-through-the-motions one?
Tonight should also be a night of answers for the Eastern Conference. New Jersey plays Toronto, a probable win for the Devils and the Caps have to keep pace to retain second place. Florida faces Philly, will the Panthers get to go to the dance? The Flyers haven't clinched yet because they have fewer wins than Florida (and if Florida wins their remaining 3 games and if Philly loses theirs they would be tied with the tiebreaker going the Panthers way). Montreal has an opportunity to give the Rangers a hard time tonight and Carolina is hoping to hold on to that number 4 spot and keep home ice advantage away from Pittsburgh and Philly. All in all, should be a great night for hockey.
Caps Notes:
Atlanta and Washington have both opened their seasons facing one another. Atlanta surprised the Caps with a 7-4 beat down that humbled the Caps and had us scratching our heads about Jose Theodore's standard of play. In the second game, it took an Alex Ovechkin four point night to secure the win, he had a hat trick and an assist.
It would be nearly three months before either team saw each other again. But when they did it was a rough and tumble affair and the Capitals' potent power play went 3 for 7 giving Michal Neuvirth his second straight win. The game was a bit closer than the Capitals might have liked, but it seemed the Caps had finally figured out their Georgia rivals.
Then Atlanta broke out the ugly jerseys and Kari Lehtenon broke out a picture perfect game, except maybe for one goal. They handed the struggling Caps a 5-1 loss and had us scratching our heads once more. Eric Fehr was the lone goal scorer, breaking the shut-out bid with only 1:15 left in the game.
On Sunday afternoon It looked as if Thrashers had the answer at the Verizon Center. The Caps looked sluggish and uninterested through the first two periods. Atlanta was beating them to the puck, winning battles, and just out working them. But the Caps made sure they won their final home game with a 4 goal third period. Again putting another twist in this divisional rivalry. I know, weird.
The season series has been anything but boring. Their games have been high scoring affairs, in fact the season series has shelled out 42 goals in all. It begs the question, which Capital team will show up tonight at Philips Arena? The determined talented one or the just-going-through-the-motions one?
Tonight should also be a night of answers for the Eastern Conference. New Jersey plays Toronto, a probable win for the Devils and the Caps have to keep pace to retain second place. Florida faces Philly, will the Panthers get to go to the dance? The Flyers haven't clinched yet because they have fewer wins than Florida (and if Florida wins their remaining 3 games and if Philly loses theirs they would be tied with the tiebreaker going the Panthers way). Montreal has an opportunity to give the Rangers a hard time tonight and Carolina is hoping to hold on to that number 4 spot and keep home ice advantage away from Pittsburgh and Philly. All in all, should be a great night for hockey.
Caps Notes:
- Only eleven players and two goaltenders took the ice at Kettler for the Capitals optional practice. Brent Johnson and Simeon Varlamov got the most work in this light work out. The players were pretty loose and jawing at one another as Johnny rehabs and Varly got a workout. Brooks Laich joined the fun early, but only in his shorts and t-shirt. He would stand on the ice and take pot shots at the net with his cross trainers on and gloves.
- Chris Clark and Boyd Gordon also were on the ice early trying to keep their legs conditioned. They didn't join the rest of the crew when practice did start yesterday, but they did share a few passes as their rehab ended just as the practice began. Donald Brashear also took the ice late in practice and his knee looked just fine. Although he was not really skating at full force and it looked as if he just wanted to get a few shots in without having to really do any drills.
- WJFK, 106.7 FM will be broadcasting every one of the playoff games. The Caps did this last season too. The FM signal will be a better and stronger signal than the 1500 AM signal on Federal radio.
Monday, February 09, 2009
Neuvirth's Rise
For the first time in a long time the Washington Capitals have some significant depth at goaltender. With the Caps' farm system entrenched with prospects Simeon Varlamov, Daren Machesney and Michal Neuvirth, not all of them could play for the Caps farm team in Hershey when the '08 - '09 season started.Michal Neuvirth was a second round pick for the Capitals in 2006. A year later he was signed to an entry level three year contract which put the prospect goaltender into the Capitals' system. But with so many goaltenders and only so many spots the Capitals had to find what to do with him.
Both Varlamov and Machesney out played Neuvirth to take the two spots in the AHL forcing the prospect to play in the ECHL with the South Carolina Stingrays. GM George McPhee had considered loaning the goaltender across the pond, but a deal just couldn't be worked out. Not long after that the Capitals goaltending situation looked a bit dire.
With Varlamov struggling to stay healthy and Jose Theodore and Brent Johnson struggling at the big club with their play and injuries, Neuvirth played some musical chairs often getting called straight from South Carolina to sit on the bench to play back up for the Capitals.
Now with injuries looking to sideline Johnny for some time and Varlamov still recovering from his hurts, Michal Neuvirth could have his NHL debut with the Washington Capitals this week. It could even happen on this three game road trip. It caps a rollercoaster year for the 20 year old goaltender that has seen Neuvirth wear three different jerseys.
He was sent down briefly to the Hershey Bears to get a start under his belt and played to a 3-2 loss. The last time the Neuvirth had seen anything similar to NHL action would be back in training camp. He was recalled, as expected, joining the Capitals as they prepare for their brief three game road trip.
Per Tarik's blog: "It's been crazy," said Neuvirth, who added it was nice to pick up some clothes from Hershey though. "If someone would have told me I'm going to be in Washington in February after starting the year in the ECHL I don't know if I would believe it."
The boyish goaltender will be thrown right into the fire if he does get a start as backup to Jose Theodore. In the preseason games, Neuvirth did look vulnerable in net due to his apprehensive play. But he has yet to play with the full starting roster for the Capitals. It will be interesting to see his technical butterfly style at work against high intense NHL games.
It's a chance of a lifetime, Neuvirth has to "Just do it."
Trade Talk - What Do The Caps Really Need?
Long time Bruin GM Harry Sinden once said of late season trades, "Moving-van trades, I call them, because the moving-van companies are the only ones that make out well. Neither team benefits." With the trade deadline looming, the Capitals may not take any of Sinden's advice and will look for some help down the stretch. But where do they need it and from who?
The first priority the Caps need to fill, in my opinion, is the lack of grit among the forward lines. Donald Brashear adds muscle and policing but you really need an agitator that can play well enough to sit on the second or third line. Last season, Matt Cooke filled that role to a tee. He was versatile enough to be used on the third and checking line as well as some penalty killing duties. We could be talking a Sean Avery-type character, but I don't think the Capitals have the patience to deal with that much character.
Who would be available? Good question. It's been a tough season for the Colorado Avalanche and Ian Laperriere could be an interesting pick there. No one would doubt Laperriere's toughness or his grit, but he also brings in Stanley Cup experience. He only has 14 points through 45 games but he is a +4 and brings in 96 PIMs. But it's too early for the Ave's to talk about being a seller as they are still only 5 points from a playoff spot.
Second priority seems to be already in the works for the Capitals and that is the unproven defensive line. With Chris Clark out, it frees up enough cap space to pull up Karl Alzner who now can be considered a top 2 or 3 defenseman for the Caps. George McPhee also picked up Staffan Kronwall off waivers from the Toronto Maple Leafs (which, I am sure, puts him in the good graces of Brian Burke). The Capitals could make a trade for a bigger named defenseman closer to the deadline, preferably one that adds more toughness to the blue line.
Third would be goaltending. That priority, if it is one at all, has been less and less prominent due to Jose Theodore's excellent play of late. If we were talking 3 months ago, we might be more concerned about who was in front of the cage for the Caps with Theo's numbers looking dismal and Brent Johnson was looking more like the starter than the one we were actually spending money on. JT60 is playing with a little bit more confidence and is swallowing up rebounds.
Being on the look out for a good deal will be hard. Long time St. Louis Blues defensman Bob Plager nailed it on the head when talked about how "Everybody's out to trade a row boat for a battleship." The Caps are looking to keep their prospects but improve their team at the same time.
The first priority the Caps need to fill, in my opinion, is the lack of grit among the forward lines. Donald Brashear adds muscle and policing but you really need an agitator that can play well enough to sit on the second or third line. Last season, Matt Cooke filled that role to a tee. He was versatile enough to be used on the third and checking line as well as some penalty killing duties. We could be talking a Sean Avery-type character, but I don't think the Capitals have the patience to deal with that much character.
Who would be available? Good question. It's been a tough season for the Colorado Avalanche and Ian Laperriere could be an interesting pick there. No one would doubt Laperriere's toughness or his grit, but he also brings in Stanley Cup experience. He only has 14 points through 45 games but he is a +4 and brings in 96 PIMs. But it's too early for the Ave's to talk about being a seller as they are still only 5 points from a playoff spot.
Second priority seems to be already in the works for the Capitals and that is the unproven defensive line. With Chris Clark out, it frees up enough cap space to pull up Karl Alzner who now can be considered a top 2 or 3 defenseman for the Caps. George McPhee also picked up Staffan Kronwall off waivers from the Toronto Maple Leafs (which, I am sure, puts him in the good graces of Brian Burke). The Capitals could make a trade for a bigger named defenseman closer to the deadline, preferably one that adds more toughness to the blue line.
Third would be goaltending. That priority, if it is one at all, has been less and less prominent due to Jose Theodore's excellent play of late. If we were talking 3 months ago, we might be more concerned about who was in front of the cage for the Caps with Theo's numbers looking dismal and Brent Johnson was looking more like the starter than the one we were actually spending money on. JT60 is playing with a little bit more confidence and is swallowing up rebounds.
Being on the look out for a good deal will be hard. Long time St. Louis Blues defensman Bob Plager nailed it on the head when talked about how "Everybody's out to trade a row boat for a battleship." The Caps are looking to keep their prospects but improve their team at the same time.
Saturday, January 03, 2009
Home Record At Risk?
Philadelphia just leaped frog over the Rangers last night with a shoot out win in Anaheim. The Rangers and Flyers are now tied, but Flyers lead the charge in the Atlantic Division due to games played. This is going to make the game against the Rangers tonight that much more of a challenge for the Capitals. Teams always seem to play better when they have a goal or a hurdle in front of them, and I don't expect the New York Rangers to be any different.
Not only that, but the Caps face a familiar foe in the Philadelphia Flyers not too long after that. It's a confident Flyer squad that seems to have the Caps number. That impressive 16-1-1 record is definitely going to be challenged tonight and on Tuesday.
Makes you wonder what the heck is going on with Pittsburgh?
Caps notes:
Not only that, but the Caps face a familiar foe in the Philadelphia Flyers not too long after that. It's a confident Flyer squad that seems to have the Caps number. That impressive 16-1-1 record is definitely going to be challenged tonight and on Tuesday.
Makes you wonder what the heck is going on with Pittsburgh?
Caps notes:
- According the the St. Pete Times Forum, Jamie Heward didn't remember much about the hit that landed him at Sibley Memorial Hospital. But when he was told it was Alex Ovechkin, Heward was quick to dismiss any dirty notion.
"Once I found out it was Alex, he's in my opinion, he's probably one of the cleanest players in the NHL as far as being honest," Heward said. "He'll play hard on you, but now that I know it was him, I know it wasn't intentional. I played with him for two years. We were pretty tight when I played there. I totally agree, and I think it was an accident." - Jose Theodore gets the nod tonight against the Rangers, a team he sort of turned it around on. Not that Brent Johnson is no slouch either. But the team really needs consistency in net. Who is going to provide that? Your guess is as good as mine.
- Alex Semin is back. Another dangerous weapon on the ice (with some kind of back protection hopefully). Chris Bourque has been sent back to Hershey.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Hold the MSG...
Capitals 5, Rangers 4 (OT)
Scoresheet - Wash Post
The last time the Caps won a game at Madison Square Garden wasa long time ago December 23, 2008.
For a while tonight it looked like the MSG non-winning streak would continue, but the Caps mounted a comeback that would have made the '04 Red Sox proud.
The Rangers scored four unanswered goals before Alex Ovechkin caught a break in the second period to put the Caps on the board. From that point forward it was ALL CAPS (yes, that's a joke)--Tomas Fleischmann and Viktor Kozlov both scored in the third, and Ovi scored again to tie it up in the back half of the third.
Meanwhile, musical goalies (it's like a game within a game) continued, with Jose Theodore #1 struggling early, giving way to sick and injured Brent Johnson, who was replaced at the start of the second period by Theo #2 (who looks suspiciously like Theo #1, but is much, much better).
And to top it all off--could you script this any better?--birthday boy Shaone Morrisonn got his first goal of the season with just under a minute into OT to win the game. A birthday present for Shaone; a Christmas present for Caps fans. Normally I'd say birthday and Christmas presents shouldn't be combined, but in this case I'm more than ok with it.
Highlights by NHL.com:
Scoresheet - Wash Post
The last time the Caps won a game at Madison Square Garden was
For a while tonight it looked like the MSG non-winning streak would continue, but the Caps mounted a comeback that would have made the '04 Red Sox proud.
The Rangers scored four unanswered goals before Alex Ovechkin caught a break in the second period to put the Caps on the board. From that point forward it was ALL CAPS (yes, that's a joke)--Tomas Fleischmann and Viktor Kozlov both scored in the third, and Ovi scored again to tie it up in the back half of the third.
Meanwhile, musical goalies (it's like a game within a game) continued, with Jose Theodore #1 struggling early, giving way to sick and injured Brent Johnson, who was replaced at the start of the second period by Theo #2 (who looks suspiciously like Theo #1, but is much, much better).
And to top it all off--could you script this any better?--birthday boy Shaone Morrisonn got his first goal of the season with just under a minute into OT to win the game. A birthday present for Shaone; a Christmas present for Caps fans. Normally I'd say birthday and Christmas presents shouldn't be combined, but in this case I'm more than ok with it.
Highlights by NHL.com:
Monday, December 22, 2008
Oh Heut, How We Miss Thee...
The one question mark coming into this season for the Washington Capitals was it's goaltending. George McPhee tried to calm those fears pointing to new acquired Jose Theodore's resume. He was NHL's MVP, led the Avalanche back to the playoffs last spring, yada yada yada.
The Caps thought they were getting a steal after they couldn't come to terms with Cristobal Huet. Theodore was playing well in Colorado (never mind the stinker of a playoff series with Detroit) and they got him for less money and less time on July first. It allowed the Caps to sign some key players that they wanted to keep and allow some young goaltenders some time to grow down in the AHL. Good deal, right?
It only took two shakey games for that plan to come unraveled. Theodore let in some head scratchers just in the first 2 games. Suddenly, back up Brent Johnson needed to step in and take some of the work load from Theodore. Now the coaching staff is just going with which ever way the wind seems to be blowing when making the starting night goaltender decision. There is no clear number one goaltender in Washington.
Hockey Night In Canada might have spilled the beans on McPhee's plans as Al Strachan told the panel between the second and third periods of the Penguins and Maple Leafs game, "Washington is, indeed, asking around about goalies."
It shouldn't be shocking that the Caps have been looking for an early season trade. The Caps did have a deal in the works with Chicago, a Micheal Nylander for one Nickolai Khabibulan with a few more particulars. But the time expired on that front and the Capitals had some major injury shoes to fill. The way Caps were dropping like flies they needed Nylander. Besides Khabibulan was playing inspired goaltending when Chicago thought about putting him on waivers or even sending him abroad. Khabi became indespensable to the Blackhawks.
Who could the Capitals be looking for now. A name that was batted around on HNIC was Tomas Vokoun, but I highly doubt the Panthers would make a in division trade. Other goaltenders to consider but are not likely canditates are the Boston pair of Tim Thomas and Manny Fernandez. Both are UFA's at the end of the year and Thomas comes with a very attractive $1.1 million price tag. It's unlikely anyone in the Eastern Conference will make that deal on the off chance they would play the Capitals in the post season (since it appear the Caps would be in the playoffs, knock on wood).
How about the west? There are a plethora of goaltenders that are unrestricted free agents at the end of the season that the Caps may consider trading for. Some highlights on that list are:
Andrew Raycroft, Colorado - But only if the Avs don't make it to the playoffs or Peter Budaj channels his inner Roy.
Ty Conklin, Detroit - Not very likely the way Chris Osgood has been playing. Detroit will need a good one, two going into the post season.
Dwayne Roloson or Mathieu Garon, Edmonton - Both goaltenders' contracts are up at the end of the year. Both come with plus and minus. Garon would be cheaper and younger. I can imgine you could get some inspired play out of Roloson (when he was traded from Minnesota he took that Oiler team to the finals).
Jason Labarbera, LA - Big goaltender, but nothing overly special about him.
Niklas Backstrom, Minnesota - Yeah, right.
Mikael Tellqvist, Phoenix - A back-up, not really a number one.
Brian Boucher, San Jose - Good, he filled in for Evgeni Nabokov and the Sharks didn't miss a beat with him in net. But unlikely as San Jose will want a good tandem going into the post season.
Manny Legace, St. Louis - Injury prone.
Curtis Sanford, Vancouver - Only if the Canucks miss the playoffs.
Ottawa has a couple of marginal goaltenders they may want to trade with to spark their roster in Martin Gerber and Alex Auld (Auld comes with Southeast Division experience). But the pickings are small for the Caps right now. If they want a trade for a goaltender the Caps have more than enough to bargin with, Nylander and the growing talent pool in Hershey. It just depends on how much the Caps want to spend too.
All of this is pure speculation of course. Many times I have claimed to know the best way of running the Capitals' organization. And many times I have been wrong. Hence I don't have a job as a GM in the NHL. But the Caps apparently do have a situation in goal that needs some fine tuning. Maybe they should tap the ticket sales department for their next goaltender.
The Caps thought they were getting a steal after they couldn't come to terms with Cristobal Huet. Theodore was playing well in Colorado (never mind the stinker of a playoff series with Detroit) and they got him for less money and less time on July first. It allowed the Caps to sign some key players that they wanted to keep and allow some young goaltenders some time to grow down in the AHL. Good deal, right?
It only took two shakey games for that plan to come unraveled. Theodore let in some head scratchers just in the first 2 games. Suddenly, back up Brent Johnson needed to step in and take some of the work load from Theodore. Now the coaching staff is just going with which ever way the wind seems to be blowing when making the starting night goaltender decision. There is no clear number one goaltender in Washington.
Hockey Night In Canada might have spilled the beans on McPhee's plans as Al Strachan told the panel between the second and third periods of the Penguins and Maple Leafs game, "Washington is, indeed, asking around about goalies."
It shouldn't be shocking that the Caps have been looking for an early season trade. The Caps did have a deal in the works with Chicago, a Micheal Nylander for one Nickolai Khabibulan with a few more particulars. But the time expired on that front and the Capitals had some major injury shoes to fill. The way Caps were dropping like flies they needed Nylander. Besides Khabibulan was playing inspired goaltending when Chicago thought about putting him on waivers or even sending him abroad. Khabi became indespensable to the Blackhawks.
Who could the Capitals be looking for now. A name that was batted around on HNIC was Tomas Vokoun, but I highly doubt the Panthers would make a in division trade. Other goaltenders to consider but are not likely canditates are the Boston pair of Tim Thomas and Manny Fernandez. Both are UFA's at the end of the year and Thomas comes with a very attractive $1.1 million price tag. It's unlikely anyone in the Eastern Conference will make that deal on the off chance they would play the Capitals in the post season (since it appear the Caps would be in the playoffs, knock on wood).
How about the west? There are a plethora of goaltenders that are unrestricted free agents at the end of the season that the Caps may consider trading for. Some highlights on that list are:
Andrew Raycroft, Colorado - But only if the Avs don't make it to the playoffs or Peter Budaj channels his inner Roy.
Ty Conklin, Detroit - Not very likely the way Chris Osgood has been playing. Detroit will need a good one, two going into the post season.
Dwayne Roloson or Mathieu Garon, Edmonton - Both goaltenders' contracts are up at the end of the year. Both come with plus and minus. Garon would be cheaper and younger. I can imgine you could get some inspired play out of Roloson (when he was traded from Minnesota he took that Oiler team to the finals).
Jason Labarbera, LA - Big goaltender, but nothing overly special about him.
Niklas Backstrom, Minnesota - Yeah, right.
Mikael Tellqvist, Phoenix - A back-up, not really a number one.
Brian Boucher, San Jose - Good, he filled in for Evgeni Nabokov and the Sharks didn't miss a beat with him in net. But unlikely as San Jose will want a good tandem going into the post season.
Manny Legace, St. Louis - Injury prone.
Curtis Sanford, Vancouver - Only if the Canucks miss the playoffs.
Ottawa has a couple of marginal goaltenders they may want to trade with to spark their roster in Martin Gerber and Alex Auld (Auld comes with Southeast Division experience). But the pickings are small for the Caps right now. If they want a trade for a goaltender the Caps have more than enough to bargin with, Nylander and the growing talent pool in Hershey. It just depends on how much the Caps want to spend too.
All of this is pure speculation of course. Many times I have claimed to know the best way of running the Capitals' organization. And many times I have been wrong. Hence I don't have a job as a GM in the NHL. But the Caps apparently do have a situation in goal that needs some fine tuning. Maybe they should tap the ticket sales department for their next goaltender.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Caps Squeak Out Of Long Island
Capitals 5, Islanders 4 OT
Scoresheet - Wash Post
One could say in the last few games that Alex Ovechkin has scored in, his goals were no considered clutch. No one could consider that now. The Caps blew three 2 goal leads as the Islanders pressured to tie the game pushing it to overtime where Ovi scored the game winner with a mere 11 seconds left in the extra period.
It started off pretty good with some much needed secondary scoring. Boyd Gordon stuffed a goal for only his second of the year. Brooks Laich had a pass go a wry that ended up in the net anyway when Joey MacDonald tried to stop it with his stick and snuck in through his five hole. Milan Jurcina added a goal and Ovechkin tallied the last two including the game winner.
The Caps seemed to be in control of the entire game, but the Islanders just kept hanging around. The Isles were able to cut off the Capitals' break out. The Caps just couldn't clear their zone cleanly all night, and those turnovers finally bit them in the butt. The Caps were ahead 2-0 to see the Islanders cut it to 2-1, then cut a two goal lead again for 3-2 and 4-3 finally getting the game tying goal off of Cap killer Jon Sim pushing the game to overtime.
It may have been a good loss for the Islanders and a bad win for the Capitals. The Caps had the win and let the Islanders out work them. For the Islanders it was quite the comeback. It would have been nicer to get the win in overtime.
Brent Johnson played really well and deserved better than 4 goals against. The Caps penalty kill had some trouble keeping the Isles at bay, while their power play was stagnated going 0 for 3. Johnny did have a couple of beauty stops keeping the Caps from losing total control.
The schedule does not get any easy for the Capitals. They head home for a game with St. Louis before hitting the road to play both Philadelphia and New York Rangers. Two teams that will be unforgiving to the Caps. Hopefully they can shore up the break out.
Highlights by NHL.com:
Scoresheet - Wash Post
One could say in the last few games that Alex Ovechkin has scored in, his goals were no considered clutch. No one could consider that now. The Caps blew three 2 goal leads as the Islanders pressured to tie the game pushing it to overtime where Ovi scored the game winner with a mere 11 seconds left in the extra period.
It started off pretty good with some much needed secondary scoring. Boyd Gordon stuffed a goal for only his second of the year. Brooks Laich had a pass go a wry that ended up in the net anyway when Joey MacDonald tried to stop it with his stick and snuck in through his five hole. Milan Jurcina added a goal and Ovechkin tallied the last two including the game winner.
The Caps seemed to be in control of the entire game, but the Islanders just kept hanging around. The Isles were able to cut off the Capitals' break out. The Caps just couldn't clear their zone cleanly all night, and those turnovers finally bit them in the butt. The Caps were ahead 2-0 to see the Islanders cut it to 2-1, then cut a two goal lead again for 3-2 and 4-3 finally getting the game tying goal off of Cap killer Jon Sim pushing the game to overtime.
It may have been a good loss for the Islanders and a bad win for the Capitals. The Caps had the win and let the Islanders out work them. For the Islanders it was quite the comeback. It would have been nicer to get the win in overtime.
Brent Johnson played really well and deserved better than 4 goals against. The Caps penalty kill had some trouble keeping the Isles at bay, while their power play was stagnated going 0 for 3. Johnny did have a couple of beauty stops keeping the Caps from losing total control.
The schedule does not get any easy for the Capitals. They head home for a game with St. Louis before hitting the road to play both Philadelphia and New York Rangers. Two teams that will be unforgiving to the Caps. Hopefully they can shore up the break out.
Highlights by NHL.com:
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Third Jerseys, Nylander Trade Talk
In the NHL, the "in" thing to do is make a third jersey. Personally, I am kind of glad the Capitals are sticking with just the two. I really only see two reasons for teams to go the third jersey route, revenue and revenue. Other than that, the jersey is just a jersey.
Before the days of the flying eagle and the dome with crisscross hockey sticks, the Capitals only had two jerseys; home and away. Now every team wants to have a third jersey which never made sense to me as a fan. Third jerseys are like a fade, a crazy what if.
Hey, I used to place playing cards on the wheels of my bike with clothes line pins to improve my bike. After awhile I realized it didn't improve my bike. It turns out my bike was just a bike whether it had the playing cards on or not, it was just louder. A team is just a team no matter what they wear. A third jersey is not going to guarantee a playoff spot.
Clarification. If a team uses their third jersey as a retro jersey, then surprisingly I am okay with that. Buffalo, Edmonton and the Islanders have introduced third jerseys that are throwbacks from the day, all of which I liked. If you think about it, their current jerseys would be the third jersey.
I don't consider myself an traditionalist by any means, but there is just something about heritage in the logo you started out with that I am partial too. I still like the vintage Caps' jersey. The blue pants with the stars down the side. Now that the Caps are back in red, white and blue, I do like the modernization of the logo and love they are back in the colors they started with.
The San Jose Sharks will be sporting their third jersey tonight when they face off with the Capitals. The Caps will be in their same ol' white road jerseys.
Trade talks seem to continue about a possible exchange concerning the Chicago Blackhawks and Washington Capitals for Micheal Nylander. Since management is pretty mum here, most of these reports have been coming out of the Windy City.
The Blackhawks reportedly were considering putting newly acquired Cristobal Huet on waivers to make room for Nylander. While that might be fun to speculate, that doesn't make a whole lot of sense on the Blackhawks behalf. I am almost certain if Huet hits the waivers, he will be picked up by a team in need of a goaltender of his stature. Seems like a lose, lose for Chicago.
Nylander/Brent Johnson for developing player/Huet? Hmm.
NHL Notes:
The Boston Bruins are quickly becoming a very scary team to face. They have been climbing up the standings and now find themselves tied for first in the East with the Rangers (who have two more games played than Boston). The Bruins are first the Conference with goals for with 66, the Capitals second with 64.
The Southeast Division maybe a race between just two teams. It seems Carolina and Washington have pulled to a 3 and 3 and a half game lead respectively over the rest of the division. It's too early to rule out the remaining three, but I wouldn't be surprised if the 'Canes and Caps finish in the top two.
Contract talks have started with Brian Burke and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Are fans in Toronto sure they want an American running the team? I guess the resounding answer is yes.
It's not hockey, but it's played on ice and in full pads. Close enough. It's Red Bull Crashed Ice where you go down a rather steep ramp of ice that curves and banks, beating out four other competitors to win a Red Bull (there is a video of it on the site). It will be held in Quebec City January 24, '09. Since it doesn't look like it takes much skill, I took the liberty of signing up JP and DC Sports Chick for the competition. Good luck!
Before the days of the flying eagle and the dome with crisscross hockey sticks, the Capitals only had two jerseys; home and away. Now every team wants to have a third jersey which never made sense to me as a fan. Third jerseys are like a fade, a crazy what if.
Hey, I used to place playing cards on the wheels of my bike with clothes line pins to improve my bike. After awhile I realized it didn't improve my bike. It turns out my bike was just a bike whether it had the playing cards on or not, it was just louder. A team is just a team no matter what they wear. A third jersey is not going to guarantee a playoff spot.
Clarification. If a team uses their third jersey as a retro jersey, then surprisingly I am okay with that. Buffalo, Edmonton and the Islanders have introduced third jerseys that are throwbacks from the day, all of which I liked. If you think about it, their current jerseys would be the third jersey.
I don't consider myself an traditionalist by any means, but there is just something about heritage in the logo you started out with that I am partial too. I still like the vintage Caps' jersey. The blue pants with the stars down the side. Now that the Caps are back in red, white and blue, I do like the modernization of the logo and love they are back in the colors they started with.
The San Jose Sharks will be sporting their third jersey tonight when they face off with the Capitals. The Caps will be in their same ol' white road jerseys.
Trade talks seem to continue about a possible exchange concerning the Chicago Blackhawks and Washington Capitals for Micheal Nylander. Since management is pretty mum here, most of these reports have been coming out of the Windy City.
The Blackhawks reportedly were considering putting newly acquired Cristobal Huet on waivers to make room for Nylander. While that might be fun to speculate, that doesn't make a whole lot of sense on the Blackhawks behalf. I am almost certain if Huet hits the waivers, he will be picked up by a team in need of a goaltender of his stature. Seems like a lose, lose for Chicago.
Nylander/Brent Johnson for developing player/Huet? Hmm.
NHL Notes:
The Boston Bruins are quickly becoming a very scary team to face. They have been climbing up the standings and now find themselves tied for first in the East with the Rangers (who have two more games played than Boston). The Bruins are first the Conference with goals for with 66, the Capitals second with 64.
The Southeast Division maybe a race between just two teams. It seems Carolina and Washington have pulled to a 3 and 3 and a half game lead respectively over the rest of the division. It's too early to rule out the remaining three, but I wouldn't be surprised if the 'Canes and Caps finish in the top two.
Contract talks have started with Brian Burke and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Are fans in Toronto sure they want an American running the team? I guess the resounding answer is yes.
It's not hockey, but it's played on ice and in full pads. Close enough. It's Red Bull Crashed Ice where you go down a rather steep ramp of ice that curves and banks, beating out four other competitors to win a Red Bull (there is a video of it on the site). It will be held in Quebec City January 24, '09. Since it doesn't look like it takes much skill, I took the liberty of signing up JP and DC Sports Chick for the competition. Good luck!
Friday, November 21, 2008
No Gas Left In The Tank
Capitals 2, Kings 5
Scoresheet - Wash Post - LA Times
The Capitals just couldn't match Los Angeles' intensity. Playing their second game in as many nights, the Caps looked tired and beat up. The Kings coming off of a short rest and a small losing streak took it to the weary Capitals.
Nick Backstrom and Brooks Laich were your goal scorers. Alex Ovechkin keeps his point streak alive with an assist. Several streaks were snapped for the Capitals at Staples Center. Goals scored in consecutive regulation periods, ended at 14. Games where the Caps scored 3 or more goals consecutively, ended at 7. Ovi's goal scoring streak, ended at 5 games.
The second goal is a shot I think Brent Johnson would have liked to get back. It was a straight forward shot off the wing by Patrick O'Sullivan that slipped past Johnny. Otherwise Johnson was the only reason the Caps were even close in this game down the stretch. He made some amazing saves on the penalty kill and played aggressively in the crease. He just had a tired slow defense in front of him.
The Caps play was sloppy and uninspired. From the start the Kings got their legs moving on the Capitals, making them run around silly in their own zone. Washington were badly out shot in the first period, 12 to 3. Credit Terry Murry and the Kings as they played hard and kept moving their feet knowing the Caps had just finished playing a physical Anaheim team the night before.
The Capitals were just too tired to get anything started. Passes were sloppy and often behind players breaking for the net. They were getting beat on the one on one battles along the boards. When the Caps tried to make that second or third breakout pass, the young legs of the Kings quickly snuffed out any chance of a break through the neutral zone.
The Capitals penalty kill and power play were actually pretty good in this game. The Caps were one of 5 chances scoring on a 5 on 3. The Caps even killed off a 1:24 of a 5 on 3, thanks to the heroics of a stickless Brooks Laich who blocked shot after shot with his bare hands (well there were gloves on, but he stopped a few shots with his palms where there is no padding). But the Caps could't build off of either success.
Also, this was the same officiating crew from last night. A phantom interference call late in the third sealed the Caps fate. Dustin Brown and Alex Ovechkin simply ran into one another and Brown's skate caught Ovi's ear on the way down. While the contact was just an accident (both players were unaware of the other), the officials called Ovechkin for interference. The Kings were able to score after the Caps were a little too offensively minded with the man down. Frustrating to say the least. Especially considering that obvious tripping and hooking infractions seemed to go unnoticed.
The Caps just needed some rest it looked like. Shots of Ovi snorting some smelling salts sort of told the story of how this team just couldn't get it up and going at the Staples Center. The Caps could have used a spark from injured Alex Semin, Mike Green and Sergei Fedorov. They will get a little rest now, their game versus San Jose is Saturday night. This is one game I would think the Caps would like to forget.
Video highlights courtesy of NHL.com:
Scoresheet - Wash Post - LA Times
The Capitals just couldn't match Los Angeles' intensity. Playing their second game in as many nights, the Caps looked tired and beat up. The Kings coming off of a short rest and a small losing streak took it to the weary Capitals.
Nick Backstrom and Brooks Laich were your goal scorers. Alex Ovechkin keeps his point streak alive with an assist. Several streaks were snapped for the Capitals at Staples Center. Goals scored in consecutive regulation periods, ended at 14. Games where the Caps scored 3 or more goals consecutively, ended at 7. Ovi's goal scoring streak, ended at 5 games.
The second goal is a shot I think Brent Johnson would have liked to get back. It was a straight forward shot off the wing by Patrick O'Sullivan that slipped past Johnny. Otherwise Johnson was the only reason the Caps were even close in this game down the stretch. He made some amazing saves on the penalty kill and played aggressively in the crease. He just had a tired slow defense in front of him.
The Caps play was sloppy and uninspired. From the start the Kings got their legs moving on the Capitals, making them run around silly in their own zone. Washington were badly out shot in the first period, 12 to 3. Credit Terry Murry and the Kings as they played hard and kept moving their feet knowing the Caps had just finished playing a physical Anaheim team the night before.
The Capitals were just too tired to get anything started. Passes were sloppy and often behind players breaking for the net. They were getting beat on the one on one battles along the boards. When the Caps tried to make that second or third breakout pass, the young legs of the Kings quickly snuffed out any chance of a break through the neutral zone.
The Capitals penalty kill and power play were actually pretty good in this game. The Caps were one of 5 chances scoring on a 5 on 3. The Caps even killed off a 1:24 of a 5 on 3, thanks to the heroics of a stickless Brooks Laich who blocked shot after shot with his bare hands (well there were gloves on, but he stopped a few shots with his palms where there is no padding). But the Caps could't build off of either success.
Also, this was the same officiating crew from last night. A phantom interference call late in the third sealed the Caps fate. Dustin Brown and Alex Ovechkin simply ran into one another and Brown's skate caught Ovi's ear on the way down. While the contact was just an accident (both players were unaware of the other), the officials called Ovechkin for interference. The Kings were able to score after the Caps were a little too offensively minded with the man down. Frustrating to say the least. Especially considering that obvious tripping and hooking infractions seemed to go unnoticed.
The Caps just needed some rest it looked like. Shots of Ovi snorting some smelling salts sort of told the story of how this team just couldn't get it up and going at the Staples Center. The Caps could have used a spark from injured Alex Semin, Mike Green and Sergei Fedorov. They will get a little rest now, their game versus San Jose is Saturday night. This is one game I would think the Caps would like to forget.
Video highlights courtesy of NHL.com:
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
20 Games In
What has surprised you most now that we are about 20 games into the season? The Sharks strong start? Barry Melrose's short tenure? Alex Semin atop the scoring list?
There have been more incidents in the last 20 games that raised an eyebrow or two. Here are a couple that surprised me.
Around the League:
While I am not surprised at Melrose's dismissal, I am surprised that it took all of 16 games to decide his fate. Where does that leave the Tampa Bay Lighting? In the hands of Rick Tocchet. You remember him, he had a thing with Wayne Gretzky's wife.
Brian Burke's sudden availability. Good news for Toronto? Maybe. Burke has been apart of a Stanley Cup winning Duck team and he pulled Dustin Penner out of the dust (which seems to be working out for the Oilers). It seems all but certain that Burke will bleed blue as the latest change in Toronto, that is there isn't another franchise that gets to Hogtown first.
The Boston Bruins strong start has surprised me. For a team that was hanging by a thread just to make the playoffs last season, they have certainly turned it around. It seems that Claude Julien has his team working hard and winning. The Bruin's head coach had some time to make the system work (I wonder who else needed more time... hmm...).
Nikolai Khabibulin. Why is he such a surprise? He is playing the best goaltending I have seen from him in a long time. All he needed was a little motivation in one Cristobal Huet. The Blackhawks have tried to trade him, send him to the minors, loan him out to the KHL all for not. In return Khaby is making the case to stay in the NHL. Now the Hawks have a couple of very good goaltenders which will make beating this team down the stretch that much harder.
For the Capitals:
I know you are thinking I am going to say Semin's offensive explosion. Well, here is a surprise of my own. The most surprising thing, in my opinion, is Tomas Fleischmann's improvement over a year ago. I really had my doubts putting the fourth year Czech on the second line but Flash is on pace for a 30 goal season considering he only had 10 goals all of last season. He has come up with a couple of big goals already this year.
The Caps goaltending situation has been a bit surprising only in that it's better than originally thought. Jose Theodore may have not been the best fill in, Brent Johnson has picked up the slack. This back and forth between goaltenders maybe good for the Caps as well. A little competition seems to keep both goaltenders sharp. While it's not a perfect arrangement, for the moment it's working.
I can't wait to see what the next twenty games bring. If it is anything like the first twenty, we have some very interesting times leading up to the All Star game in Montreal. Especially the consideration of voter fraud in the balloting. It's been a pretty entertaining first quarter of the season so far.
There have been more incidents in the last 20 games that raised an eyebrow or two. Here are a couple that surprised me.
Around the League:
While I am not surprised at Melrose's dismissal, I am surprised that it took all of 16 games to decide his fate. Where does that leave the Tampa Bay Lighting? In the hands of Rick Tocchet. You remember him, he had a thing with Wayne Gretzky's wife.
Brian Burke's sudden availability. Good news for Toronto? Maybe. Burke has been apart of a Stanley Cup winning Duck team and he pulled Dustin Penner out of the dust (which seems to be working out for the Oilers). It seems all but certain that Burke will bleed blue as the latest change in Toronto, that is there isn't another franchise that gets to Hogtown first.
The Boston Bruins strong start has surprised me. For a team that was hanging by a thread just to make the playoffs last season, they have certainly turned it around. It seems that Claude Julien has his team working hard and winning. The Bruin's head coach had some time to make the system work (I wonder who else needed more time... hmm...).
Nikolai Khabibulin. Why is he such a surprise? He is playing the best goaltending I have seen from him in a long time. All he needed was a little motivation in one Cristobal Huet. The Blackhawks have tried to trade him, send him to the minors, loan him out to the KHL all for not. In return Khaby is making the case to stay in the NHL. Now the Hawks have a couple of very good goaltenders which will make beating this team down the stretch that much harder.
For the Capitals:
I know you are thinking I am going to say Semin's offensive explosion. Well, here is a surprise of my own. The most surprising thing, in my opinion, is Tomas Fleischmann's improvement over a year ago. I really had my doubts putting the fourth year Czech on the second line but Flash is on pace for a 30 goal season considering he only had 10 goals all of last season. He has come up with a couple of big goals already this year.
The Caps goaltending situation has been a bit surprising only in that it's better than originally thought. Jose Theodore may have not been the best fill in, Brent Johnson has picked up the slack. This back and forth between goaltenders maybe good for the Caps as well. A little competition seems to keep both goaltenders sharp. While it's not a perfect arrangement, for the moment it's working.
I can't wait to see what the next twenty games bring. If it is anything like the first twenty, we have some very interesting times leading up to the All Star game in Montreal. Especially the consideration of voter fraud in the balloting. It's been a pretty entertaining first quarter of the season so far.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Riding The Hot Hand
What has been clear in the new regime (Bruce Boudreau celebrates his first full year has head coach this month) for the Washington Capitals is that they are not afraid to use one goaltender over the other to get wins. While that makes it hard for analysts and media to figure out just who is the number one goaltender for the Capitals, it may make for a better Capital team.
Brent Johnson lately has been the hot hand. Playing incredibly smooth and calm in the crease, his numbers have jumped to an impressive 5-1-2 with a .931 save percentage. The month of November has been good to Johnny, who has been credited with the win in four straight games and only allowing two goals in every game he has played this month. Add a third star performance to that resume and Johnson looks like the Caps number one.
But a slight hip injury opened the door for Jose Theodore, who has been sitting on his rump for the previous four and a half games before coming in relief for the injured Johnson in Carolina. Since then, in 5 periods of play, Theo has only allowed one goal in 46 shots (if you were wondering that is a .978 save percentage). His last game versus the Devils, Theo played spectacular, easily his best game as a Cap.
While it's nice for the Caps, who now seem able to put either goaltender up and get good performances, some may see it more of a weakness than a strength when it comes to the job in the crease. The Capitals will have to endure that kind of questioning all year, if they were losing that is.
But the Caps are win streak. That makes a huge difference. If they were losing and grasping for the hot goaltender, it may be more of a hindrance rather than confidence that putting either goaltender in the net. The way both goaltenders are taking advantage of the starts bodes well for the Caps... for now.
For tonight's game in New Jersey, I would assume Brent Johnson is back in the net. But with the way Theo has played the last couple of games, I wouldn't be surprised to see Jose Theodore in the net either.
Brent Johnson lately has been the hot hand. Playing incredibly smooth and calm in the crease, his numbers have jumped to an impressive 5-1-2 with a .931 save percentage. The month of November has been good to Johnny, who has been credited with the win in four straight games and only allowing two goals in every game he has played this month. Add a third star performance to that resume and Johnson looks like the Caps number one.
But a slight hip injury opened the door for Jose Theodore, who has been sitting on his rump for the previous four and a half games before coming in relief for the injured Johnson in Carolina. Since then, in 5 periods of play, Theo has only allowed one goal in 46 shots (if you were wondering that is a .978 save percentage). His last game versus the Devils, Theo played spectacular, easily his best game as a Cap.
While it's nice for the Caps, who now seem able to put either goaltender up and get good performances, some may see it more of a weakness than a strength when it comes to the job in the crease. The Capitals will have to endure that kind of questioning all year, if they were losing that is.
But the Caps are win streak. That makes a huge difference. If they were losing and grasping for the hot goaltender, it may be more of a hindrance rather than confidence that putting either goaltender in the net. The way both goaltenders are taking advantage of the starts bodes well for the Caps... for now.
For tonight's game in New Jersey, I would assume Brent Johnson is back in the net. But with the way Theo has played the last couple of games, I wouldn't be surprised to see Jose Theodore in the net either.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Keeping The Streak Alive
Capitals 5, Hurricanes 1
Scoresheet - Wash Post - News Ob
For anyone who was worried about Alex Ovechkin's lack of scoring, tonight's game should quell some of those concerns. As well as concerns about Nick Backstrom's lack of scoring considering the second year forward has 6 points in the last 3 games. Ovechkin opened the scoring for the Washington Capitals and Backstrom put the nail in the coffin as they dominate the Carolina Hurricanes in a divisional game for first in the Southeast.
Both teams came into this contest tied in points, and one would think that this game would be a battle royal of sorts. But the Caps, who seem to play better with something on the line, kept the 'Canes on their heels for most of the night. Ovi started the scoring, and that was followed up by a couple of tallies by Alex Semin who took the lead as top scorer in the league (with goals 12 and 13). Mike Green and Nick Backstrom (his first of the season) both added to the scoring to make it a nice rounded number at five goals.
The five who scored where the only point getters on the night as well, Semin finished with 5 points, Backstrom had 4 points, Ovi with 3 points, and Green with a goal and assist for 2. In all, these five players accounted for all 14 points the Caps scored tonight. In a game when you would think that the 'Canes would start Cam Ward in net, back up Michael Leighton was a bit shelled shocked after a 3 goal opening period by the Caps.
Brad Johnson looked smooth in net, before he was injured at the end of the first period. However the Caps were moving right along with Jose Theodore filling in. Johnson looked as if he over stretched on a pad save (groin possible), but was back in the backup goalie seat for the third. So I don't think it's too serious. Thoedore came in relief and played solid making 13 stops.
The big story here really is the Caps penalty kill. Only allowing the single 'Canes tally was sort a fluke off the boards caught Johnny off gaurd. Other than that, the kill did it's job even killing off a minute and eighteen of a 5 on 3. The power play did an okay job at 1 of 5 chances. But I see promise there as the Caps seem to be able to move the puck with much more authority and quickness. As their confidence continues to grow, so too will the power play's danger.
This is just one game, even though the build up was the two top teams in the Southeast Division walk into this one tied in points. The Capitals stretch a win streak to four games. While it's nice to celebrate this one, the Caps have little time to enjoy the top seat in the division as they are on a plane back to DC for a home and home with New Jersey.
Highlights courtesy of NHL.com:
Scoresheet - Wash Post - News Ob
For anyone who was worried about Alex Ovechkin's lack of scoring, tonight's game should quell some of those concerns. As well as concerns about Nick Backstrom's lack of scoring considering the second year forward has 6 points in the last 3 games. Ovechkin opened the scoring for the Washington Capitals and Backstrom put the nail in the coffin as they dominate the Carolina Hurricanes in a divisional game for first in the Southeast.
Both teams came into this contest tied in points, and one would think that this game would be a battle royal of sorts. But the Caps, who seem to play better with something on the line, kept the 'Canes on their heels for most of the night. Ovi started the scoring, and that was followed up by a couple of tallies by Alex Semin who took the lead as top scorer in the league (with goals 12 and 13). Mike Green and Nick Backstrom (his first of the season) both added to the scoring to make it a nice rounded number at five goals.
The five who scored where the only point getters on the night as well, Semin finished with 5 points, Backstrom had 4 points, Ovi with 3 points, and Green with a goal and assist for 2. In all, these five players accounted for all 14 points the Caps scored tonight. In a game when you would think that the 'Canes would start Cam Ward in net, back up Michael Leighton was a bit shelled shocked after a 3 goal opening period by the Caps.
Brad Johnson looked smooth in net, before he was injured at the end of the first period. However the Caps were moving right along with Jose Theodore filling in. Johnson looked as if he over stretched on a pad save (groin possible), but was back in the backup goalie seat for the third. So I don't think it's too serious. Thoedore came in relief and played solid making 13 stops.
The big story here really is the Caps penalty kill. Only allowing the single 'Canes tally was sort a fluke off the boards caught Johnny off gaurd. Other than that, the kill did it's job even killing off a minute and eighteen of a 5 on 3. The power play did an okay job at 1 of 5 chances. But I see promise there as the Caps seem to be able to move the puck with much more authority and quickness. As their confidence continues to grow, so too will the power play's danger.
This is just one game, even though the build up was the two top teams in the Southeast Division walk into this one tied in points. The Capitals stretch a win streak to four games. While it's nice to celebrate this one, the Caps have little time to enjoy the top seat in the division as they are on a plane back to DC for a home and home with New Jersey.
Highlights courtesy of NHL.com:
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Caps Look Better, Still Lose in OT
Capitals 1, Senators 2 (OT)
Scoresheet
An exciting game; a disappointing outcome. The Caps played hard last night, highlighted by the defensive efforts of Brent Johnson in goal. The only scores in regulation were in the second period: the first by Ottawa's Dany Heatly, followed soon thereafter by a Tomas Fleischmann goal. In the end though, the Senators emerged victorious, when Mike Fisher scored his first goal of the year with just under 40 seconds left in overtime.
Johnny summed it up simply: "It's definitely a tough loss. You want better results any time you can play like that." (Associated Press)
It looks like we've addressed the problem of limiting opponents' goals...now we just need to score more ourselves. Last night, the Caps put up a mere 27 shots to Ottawa's 44. In regulation, the Caps scored once in 25 attempts, and the Senators scored just once in 41. Realizing that there's a difference between good shots and bad shots, and that offensive efficiency shouldn't be derided, the law of averages would suggest that a few more Caps shots could very well have kept this game from going into overtime.
Next game: Thursday at home vs. Carolina.
Scoresheet
An exciting game; a disappointing outcome. The Caps played hard last night, highlighted by the defensive efforts of Brent Johnson in goal. The only scores in regulation were in the second period: the first by Ottawa's Dany Heatly, followed soon thereafter by a Tomas Fleischmann goal. In the end though, the Senators emerged victorious, when Mike Fisher scored his first goal of the year with just under 40 seconds left in overtime.
Johnny summed it up simply: "It's definitely a tough loss. You want better results any time you can play like that." (Associated Press)
It looks like we've addressed the problem of limiting opponents' goals...now we just need to score more ourselves. Last night, the Caps put up a mere 27 shots to Ottawa's 44. In regulation, the Caps scored once in 25 attempts, and the Senators scored just once in 41. Realizing that there's a difference between good shots and bad shots, and that offensive efficiency shouldn't be derided, the law of averages would suggest that a few more Caps shots could very well have kept this game from going into overtime.
Next game: Thursday at home vs. Carolina.
Friday, October 24, 2008
It Could Be Worse...
...cough, Flyers, cough.
The Caps may not be firing on all cylinders yet, but there are some encouraging signs. No one here is saying that the Capitals have the capability to go 82-0, but it would be nice to think that this team is a shade better than 3-3-1. And I think they are.
As much crap Caps' fans have given to the goaltender situation, seven games in it's not the goaltending we are complaining about. Jose Theodore has settled down into a groove of some solid net minding. In both road games, more so in Phoenix than in Calgary, Theo was the most consistent player and kept his team with in reach of the tie and win. Easily the Coyotes could have made the score 3-0 at the end of the first and start of second periods last night. But Theo came up with the big save. Brent Johnson has been no slouch either.
Caps are still getting their opportunities. It's true that Alex Ovechkin is getting a little lost when the entire opposition line collapses on him, but that only means there are 4 other open players. Phoenix took it to a whole new level, I thought if Jose had the speed he could have had a scoring chance since he was so wide open. Ovie is going to start finding those passing lanes, and his linemates will start getting into those open lanes and burying the puck.
The Caps will find a way to stop playing to not lose and start playing to win. If that makes sense. Several players are too concerned about their positioning than being aggressive and too worried about making a mistake than trusting their skill. This team was so much better when they realized they have nothing to lose, and their play reflected that. Now that they think they have something to lose, they are holding their sticks too tight. This team really needs to forget the expectations that have been put upon them and play as if they are underdogs.
All in all, the Caps are a talented good team. Once they get over what ever funk they might be in, they are going to start winning some exciting games. But just like anything else, they have to stink at a few to make it humbling. The Caps are just getting that out of the way early. When the team starts building confidence, things will turn around.
But if it makes you feel better, Panic Buttons available here.
The Caps may not be firing on all cylinders yet, but there are some encouraging signs. No one here is saying that the Capitals have the capability to go 82-0, but it would be nice to think that this team is a shade better than 3-3-1. And I think they are.
As much crap Caps' fans have given to the goaltender situation, seven games in it's not the goaltending we are complaining about. Jose Theodore has settled down into a groove of some solid net minding. In both road games, more so in Phoenix than in Calgary, Theo was the most consistent player and kept his team with in reach of the tie and win. Easily the Coyotes could have made the score 3-0 at the end of the first and start of second periods last night. But Theo came up with the big save. Brent Johnson has been no slouch either.
Caps are still getting their opportunities. It's true that Alex Ovechkin is getting a little lost when the entire opposition line collapses on him, but that only means there are 4 other open players. Phoenix took it to a whole new level, I thought if Jose had the speed he could have had a scoring chance since he was so wide open. Ovie is going to start finding those passing lanes, and his linemates will start getting into those open lanes and burying the puck.
The Caps will find a way to stop playing to not lose and start playing to win. If that makes sense. Several players are too concerned about their positioning than being aggressive and too worried about making a mistake than trusting their skill. This team was so much better when they realized they have nothing to lose, and their play reflected that. Now that they think they have something to lose, they are holding their sticks too tight. This team really needs to forget the expectations that have been put upon them and play as if they are underdogs.
All in all, the Caps are a talented good team. Once they get over what ever funk they might be in, they are going to start winning some exciting games. But just like anything else, they have to stink at a few to make it humbling. The Caps are just getting that out of the way early. When the team starts building confidence, things will turn around.
But if it makes you feel better, Panic Buttons available here.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
A Devil Of A Time
Capitals 3, Devils 4 OT/SO (0-1)
Scoresheet - Wash Post
You know the old saying, "Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard." The Capitals are guilty of not working hard enough for this win as they drop in the first shoot out of the season to the New Jersey Devils 4 - 3.
Alex Semin continues to have the hot hand as he has now his fifth and sixth goals of the season. Mike Green also tallied on a 5 on 3 power play. Alex Ovechkin added to his assist total but was kept in check by the Devils throughout the game.
The Caps power play was pretty sloppy. Credit the Devils for playing an aggressive penalty kill. The Caps just couldn't get it together. The Caps shot total on the power play I could count on one hand, out of 8 chances too. The Devils aggressive forecheck kept the Caps off balance all game, and they never seemed to get into any kind of rhythm whether it was 5 on 5 or not.
Brent Johnson deserved a better fate in this one. He was absolutely spectacular in net. More than once did Johnny take away the back door one timer and stood solid in net. He certianly didn't play like a back up tonight. He played his angles well, was quick east to west and looked big in net. But the Devils found ways to score late and the Caps just couldn't outwork a very good Devil team.
Marty Brodeur stopped all three Capitals' snipers in the shootout; who could have used Viktor Kozlov in this situation. Micheal Nylander, Semin and Ovechkin all failed to convert their shots. In the end the Devils only needed one to go in, and they got it off of a backhander by Zach Parise.
For the Capitals to come out of this one with a point is somewhat acceptable, but the Caps did carry a lead into the third only to squander it after a few defensive break downs. Late in the second and even early in the third, the Caps had several chances to put the game away while they had a lead and failed to do so.
What did the Caps learn tonight? That good teams can comeback on them as well. Give the Devils their due, they earned this win tonight. The NJ boys were stepping in front of shots, shutting down passing lanes and playing very good team defense. Like I said, the Caps are lucky to come out of this with a point thanks in part to Johnson in net.
Ovechkin needs to learn some new moves on the shoot out. He has gone from shootout darling to dropout in his last couple of chances. He has been looking to beat that glove hand with his quick wrister. But I think goaltenders have gotten wise to it. But his points will come.
Chris Bourque was the call up as a few Capitals are already nursing injuries (Kozlov, Brashear, Poti). He played pretty solid, and he even got a few pucks to the slot that sometimes was not occupied by his linemates. He played some time on the powerplay and had one really good shot from the point that Brodeur just got a piece of. His father, Ray Bourque was in the stands for his son's first game of the season. C-Bo was sent back to Hershey after the game. Sergei Fedorov played back on defense and there were a few times he stepped up and got caught behind the play.
Next for the Capitals is their first western swing road trip as a horse show will occupy the Verizon Center this week. Their trip will take them to Calgary, Phoenix then Dallas before returning back to the phone booth next Tuesday to take on Nashville.
Highlights courtesy of NHL.com:
Scoresheet - Wash Post
You know the old saying, "Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard." The Capitals are guilty of not working hard enough for this win as they drop in the first shoot out of the season to the New Jersey Devils 4 - 3.
Alex Semin continues to have the hot hand as he has now his fifth and sixth goals of the season. Mike Green also tallied on a 5 on 3 power play. Alex Ovechkin added to his assist total but was kept in check by the Devils throughout the game.
The Caps power play was pretty sloppy. Credit the Devils for playing an aggressive penalty kill. The Caps just couldn't get it together. The Caps shot total on the power play I could count on one hand, out of 8 chances too. The Devils aggressive forecheck kept the Caps off balance all game, and they never seemed to get into any kind of rhythm whether it was 5 on 5 or not.
Brent Johnson deserved a better fate in this one. He was absolutely spectacular in net. More than once did Johnny take away the back door one timer and stood solid in net. He certianly didn't play like a back up tonight. He played his angles well, was quick east to west and looked big in net. But the Devils found ways to score late and the Caps just couldn't outwork a very good Devil team.
Marty Brodeur stopped all three Capitals' snipers in the shootout; who could have used Viktor Kozlov in this situation. Micheal Nylander, Semin and Ovechkin all failed to convert their shots. In the end the Devils only needed one to go in, and they got it off of a backhander by Zach Parise.
For the Capitals to come out of this one with a point is somewhat acceptable, but the Caps did carry a lead into the third only to squander it after a few defensive break downs. Late in the second and even early in the third, the Caps had several chances to put the game away while they had a lead and failed to do so.
What did the Caps learn tonight? That good teams can comeback on them as well. Give the Devils their due, they earned this win tonight. The NJ boys were stepping in front of shots, shutting down passing lanes and playing very good team defense. Like I said, the Caps are lucky to come out of this with a point thanks in part to Johnson in net.
Ovechkin needs to learn some new moves on the shoot out. He has gone from shootout darling to dropout in his last couple of chances. He has been looking to beat that glove hand with his quick wrister. But I think goaltenders have gotten wise to it. But his points will come.
Chris Bourque was the call up as a few Capitals are already nursing injuries (Kozlov, Brashear, Poti). He played pretty solid, and he even got a few pucks to the slot that sometimes was not occupied by his linemates. He played some time on the powerplay and had one really good shot from the point that Brodeur just got a piece of. His father, Ray Bourque was in the stands for his son's first game of the season. C-Bo was sent back to Hershey after the game. Sergei Fedorov played back on defense and there were a few times he stepped up and got caught behind the play.
Next for the Capitals is their first western swing road trip as a horse show will occupy the Verizon Center this week. Their trip will take them to Calgary, Phoenix then Dallas before returning back to the phone booth next Tuesday to take on Nashville.
Highlights courtesy of NHL.com:
Friday, October 10, 2008
Not The Best Of Starts
Capitals 4, Thrashers 7
Scoresheet - Wash Post - AJC
The Washington Capitals didn't get the best of starts tonight as they fell early 3-0, fought their way back to a 4-4 tie, only to surrender another 3 goals in the third. In a wild scoring affair the Caps drop their season opener to the Atlanta Thrashers, a team that is not expected to do much, 7-4.
Scoring for the Caps were Alex Semin, David Steckel with a shortie and Mike Green who scored two on the power play including the game tying goal. Jose Theodore continued to look uncomfortable in net and was pulled in the second after giving up 4 goals. Brent Johnson came in and looked much better, but still surrendered three in the third. The Caps out shot their rivals 43 - 31.
This game was all about the Caps' stellar play in the second period sandwiched between absolutely horrible first and third periods. The Caps started their season the same way they ended last year, yielding a powerplay goal. The first Caps' penalty was a tripping call against Tom Poti. Yes, the same Tom Poti that was called for tripping in overtime of game 7 against the Flyers. In both cases, the opponent scored on the ensuing power play. Coincidence?
The Caps start was good. They were working hard for pucks, keeping within their system. Then when an early goal that was disallowed because of a high stick from Brooks Laich off a point shot from Green stopped the Caps momentum as the play went to review. That delay helped the Thrashers get over some opening night nerves. Then at 8:20 in the first period on the power play, the the dizzy birds were given a gift wrapped rebound off of a nice stop by Theodore. From that moment on, the Thrashers picked up some confidence and jumped to a 3-0 lead.
Bruce Boudreau had to call a time-out to settle his own crew down, and Semin scored the first goal of the '08-'09 season off a nice wrister from the top slot soon after. They seemed to gain some momentum back late in the first and in the second, cutting the Thrasher to 3-2. But after Steckel's short handed goal, the boys in blue got it right back on the same power play.
Theodore was pulled after only seeing about 30 minutes of ice time. He mishandled the puck, miscommunicated with his D-men, he couldn't control rebounds and looked shaky in net. Whatever transpired in the Bruins preseason game seemed to carry over. In no way did he look as he did in Colorado.
Johnny didn't expect to replace Theodore. "We can't have third-period shortcomings like that when the game is tied," Johnson told reporters after the game, "You don't want to be in that position. You don't want that to happen to your partner." Theodore was not available for comment after the game.
It looked as if the Caps were back in control after Johnson was put in. Johnny made some spectacular saves and the Caps took advantage of a double minor for Marty Reasoner's high stick. Green scored both power play goals as the Caps special teams finally came through in a pinch. The Caps were only 2 of 7 though, their penalty kill was dismal allowing Atlanta 3 goals in 9 chances.
Start of the third it looked like the Caps were going to take the lead and eclipsing a 3 goal deficit on a Alex Ovechkin penalty shot after Toby Enstrom covered the puck in the Thrasher crease. But Kari Lehtonen deflected the shot. And the Thrashers took advantage of some poor neutral zone miscues.
Things got chippy in the end, as they always seem to do when the Caps play Atlanta. Boudreau did not look like a happy camper throughout the whole game, maybe sensing his guys were not putting forth the effort needed. "There were too many guys not doing their job," Boudreau said. "When you don't do your job, anyone can score seven goals." I think it's going to be a long plane ride back for the Caps.
So it's just one game, right. Maybe this is a wake up call that the Capitals have to do better than before. Some bright spots, Alex Semin played well, although I would like to see him dish it to an open guy once and awhile. Tomas Fleischmann had a couple of good chances, but needs to find a way to finish. Mike Green was good in this game, netting two goals on the power play. Outside of that, there wasn't much good to be found on the Capitals season opener. But hey, the Caps are still tied with Tampa.
Scoresheet - Wash Post - AJC
The Washington Capitals didn't get the best of starts tonight as they fell early 3-0, fought their way back to a 4-4 tie, only to surrender another 3 goals in the third. In a wild scoring affair the Caps drop their season opener to the Atlanta Thrashers, a team that is not expected to do much, 7-4.
Scoring for the Caps were Alex Semin, David Steckel with a shortie and Mike Green who scored two on the power play including the game tying goal. Jose Theodore continued to look uncomfortable in net and was pulled in the second after giving up 4 goals. Brent Johnson came in and looked much better, but still surrendered three in the third. The Caps out shot their rivals 43 - 31.
This game was all about the Caps' stellar play in the second period sandwiched between absolutely horrible first and third periods. The Caps started their season the same way they ended last year, yielding a powerplay goal. The first Caps' penalty was a tripping call against Tom Poti. Yes, the same Tom Poti that was called for tripping in overtime of game 7 against the Flyers. In both cases, the opponent scored on the ensuing power play. Coincidence?
The Caps start was good. They were working hard for pucks, keeping within their system. Then when an early goal that was disallowed because of a high stick from Brooks Laich off a point shot from Green stopped the Caps momentum as the play went to review. That delay helped the Thrashers get over some opening night nerves. Then at 8:20 in the first period on the power play, the the dizzy birds were given a gift wrapped rebound off of a nice stop by Theodore. From that moment on, the Thrashers picked up some confidence and jumped to a 3-0 lead.
Bruce Boudreau had to call a time-out to settle his own crew down, and Semin scored the first goal of the '08-'09 season off a nice wrister from the top slot soon after. They seemed to gain some momentum back late in the first and in the second, cutting the Thrasher to 3-2. But after Steckel's short handed goal, the boys in blue got it right back on the same power play.
Theodore was pulled after only seeing about 30 minutes of ice time. He mishandled the puck, miscommunicated with his D-men, he couldn't control rebounds and looked shaky in net. Whatever transpired in the Bruins preseason game seemed to carry over. In no way did he look as he did in Colorado.
Johnny didn't expect to replace Theodore. "We can't have third-period shortcomings like that when the game is tied," Johnson told reporters after the game, "You don't want to be in that position. You don't want that to happen to your partner." Theodore was not available for comment after the game.
It looked as if the Caps were back in control after Johnson was put in. Johnny made some spectacular saves and the Caps took advantage of a double minor for Marty Reasoner's high stick. Green scored both power play goals as the Caps special teams finally came through in a pinch. The Caps were only 2 of 7 though, their penalty kill was dismal allowing Atlanta 3 goals in 9 chances.
Start of the third it looked like the Caps were going to take the lead and eclipsing a 3 goal deficit on a Alex Ovechkin penalty shot after Toby Enstrom covered the puck in the Thrasher crease. But Kari Lehtonen deflected the shot. And the Thrashers took advantage of some poor neutral zone miscues.
Things got chippy in the end, as they always seem to do when the Caps play Atlanta. Boudreau did not look like a happy camper throughout the whole game, maybe sensing his guys were not putting forth the effort needed. "There were too many guys not doing their job," Boudreau said. "When you don't do your job, anyone can score seven goals." I think it's going to be a long plane ride back for the Caps.
So it's just one game, right. Maybe this is a wake up call that the Capitals have to do better than before. Some bright spots, Alex Semin played well, although I would like to see him dish it to an open guy once and awhile. Tomas Fleischmann had a couple of good chances, but needs to find a way to finish. Mike Green was good in this game, netting two goals on the power play. Outside of that, there wasn't much good to be found on the Capitals season opener. But hey, the Caps are still tied with Tampa.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Caps Keep Rolling; Kozlov Hurt
Capitals 3, Devils 2
Preseason - Scoresheet
There has been a lot of talk of the Capitals picking up where they left off. Since it's still the preseason, I don't put a lot into that statement. But, I guess something should be said for the fact that the Capitals are a perfect 4 and 0 on the preseason. Apparently Corey Masisak's 90-0 season dream is still intact.
Alex Ovechkin has yet to score 5 on 5 in the preseason. He netted a goal on the penalty kill which eventually turned out to be the game winner against the Devils. His previous goals this preseason were on a penalty shot and on the power play. He must be hitting for the preseason cycle. Add goals by Mike Green and Boyd Gordon and two assists from Micheal Nylander (who also got the game's first star) and the Caps come away with a 3 to 2 victory up in New Jersey.
The Caps did have a 3 - 0 lead at the start of the third period. Brent Johnson played the first two periods and played very solid. He really is looking like he wants that starting position. Jose Theodore couldn't keep the shut out going, but the Devils did push up the intensity in the third. During the Devils' late rally, they were trying to get goaltender Kevin Weekes off the ice for an extra attacker with a minute left in the third. The Caps did a good job of forechecking keeping Weekes from getting to the bench. When the Devils finally did get an extra man on the ice, it was far too late for it to be effective.
Interesting to note that Bruce Boudreau has been really experimenting with his line combos, especially on the special teams. He put Chris Bourque, Green and Ovi on the PK a couple of times which eventually lead to the game winning goal on shorty by Ovechkin. The Caps were able to kill off all of their penalties for a second straight game (including a long 5 on 3 in the first period). The power play was sufficient as the Caps were 1 of 6.
Viktor Kozlov suffered a "groin strain" and was taken out of the game as a precautionary measure. It's not believed to be serious. Gordon stepped up on to Kozlov's line and rewarded the decision with a goal off of a nifty Nylander pass. With Chris Clark out of the lineup Ovi wore the captain's C, John Erskine was the only player on either team with a -2 rating. The Devils had less veterans than the Caps in this game.
Donald Brashear got some work in. Getting into the game's only scrap, he took on Pierre-Luc Latourneau-Leblond (pick a name, geez). Not sure why an AHLer would want to take on Brash, but hey, maybe just to get on the scoresheet.
The Caps improve to 4 and 0. I want the preseason to end, but it's not going to. Next up is a date with the Flyers on Wednesday night. Caps will most likely get some practice in and maybe a few more cuts here and there.
On a side note, what are the boys up in Toronto smoking?:
Uh, no they are actually undefeated, and they have only played 4 preseason games. Stellar reporting.
Preseason - Scoresheet
There has been a lot of talk of the Capitals picking up where they left off. Since it's still the preseason, I don't put a lot into that statement. But, I guess something should be said for the fact that the Capitals are a perfect 4 and 0 on the preseason. Apparently Corey Masisak's 90-0 season dream is still intact.
Alex Ovechkin has yet to score 5 on 5 in the preseason. He netted a goal on the penalty kill which eventually turned out to be the game winner against the Devils. His previous goals this preseason were on a penalty shot and on the power play. He must be hitting for the preseason cycle. Add goals by Mike Green and Boyd Gordon and two assists from Micheal Nylander (who also got the game's first star) and the Caps come away with a 3 to 2 victory up in New Jersey.
The Caps did have a 3 - 0 lead at the start of the third period. Brent Johnson played the first two periods and played very solid. He really is looking like he wants that starting position. Jose Theodore couldn't keep the shut out going, but the Devils did push up the intensity in the third. During the Devils' late rally, they were trying to get goaltender Kevin Weekes off the ice for an extra attacker with a minute left in the third. The Caps did a good job of forechecking keeping Weekes from getting to the bench. When the Devils finally did get an extra man on the ice, it was far too late for it to be effective.
Interesting to note that Bruce Boudreau has been really experimenting with his line combos, especially on the special teams. He put Chris Bourque, Green and Ovi on the PK a couple of times which eventually lead to the game winning goal on shorty by Ovechkin. The Caps were able to kill off all of their penalties for a second straight game (including a long 5 on 3 in the first period). The power play was sufficient as the Caps were 1 of 6.
Viktor Kozlov suffered a "groin strain" and was taken out of the game as a precautionary measure. It's not believed to be serious. Gordon stepped up on to Kozlov's line and rewarded the decision with a goal off of a nifty Nylander pass. With Chris Clark out of the lineup Ovi wore the captain's C, John Erskine was the only player on either team with a -2 rating. The Devils had less veterans than the Caps in this game.
Donald Brashear got some work in. Getting into the game's only scrap, he took on Pierre-Luc Latourneau-Leblond (pick a name, geez). Not sure why an AHLer would want to take on Brash, but hey, maybe just to get on the scoresheet.
The Caps improve to 4 and 0. I want the preseason to end, but it's not going to. Next up is a date with the Flyers on Wednesday night. Caps will most likely get some practice in and maybe a few more cuts here and there.
On a side note, what are the boys up in Toronto smoking?:
Uh, no they are actually undefeated, and they have only played 4 preseason games. Stellar reporting.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Caps Win A Tough One
Capitals 4, Bruins 3
Preseason - Scoresheet
Chris Bourque continues to shine in the preseason games, making another strong argument to be this year's dark horse to make the big squad. Bourque scored the game winner with under 3 minutes left in the third on the power play and added an assist as the Capitals remain undefeated in preseason play.
I didn't get to see or hear the game unfortunatly, most of my analysis will have to be off the scoresheets and the play-by-play. Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin, Nick Backstrom, Micheal Nylander and Mike Green all sat this one out. Boston's tough guy Milan Lucic and the Caps' enforcer Donald Brashear were both in the line up, but apparently behaved as there was no fighting penalties assessed.
Chris Clark, Tomas Fleischmann and Boyd Gordon where your other scorers. Keith Acoin had two assists and prospect John Carlson added another assist to his first stint in the preseason. Bourque has past Ovechkin and Nylander in points for the preseason with 4.
The Caps got the early goal on a Clark power play tally, but the B's answered back with a couple of goals to take the lead halfway through the first. Gordon's goal evened things out before the first intermission. The Caps took the lead back scoring the only goal in the second frame, but the Bruins answered right back at the start of the third. Bourque banged home the game winner on a Marco Strum penalty with assists from Sergei Fedorov and Brooks Laich.
The Caps penalty kill took center stage this afternoon as they were able to kill off all 6 penalties including two 5 on 3's. The power play was pretty potent as well working toward an efficient 2 for 3 which included Bourque's game winner with 2:15 left in the game. Jakub Cutta, Jeff Schultz and Fedorov were the only players on either team to have a -2 rating on the night.
Jose Theodore played the first 2 periods and turned away 13 shots allowing two goals. Brent Johnson got his first look at the preseason and saved 15 only allowing a single tally.
Caps are back at Kettler on Sunday then it's the Devils for a Monday night matchup at the rock.
Preseason - Scoresheet
Chris Bourque continues to shine in the preseason games, making another strong argument to be this year's dark horse to make the big squad. Bourque scored the game winner with under 3 minutes left in the third on the power play and added an assist as the Capitals remain undefeated in preseason play.
I didn't get to see or hear the game unfortunatly, most of my analysis will have to be off the scoresheets and the play-by-play. Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin, Nick Backstrom, Micheal Nylander and Mike Green all sat this one out. Boston's tough guy Milan Lucic and the Caps' enforcer Donald Brashear were both in the line up, but apparently behaved as there was no fighting penalties assessed.
Chris Clark, Tomas Fleischmann and Boyd Gordon where your other scorers. Keith Acoin had two assists and prospect John Carlson added another assist to his first stint in the preseason. Bourque has past Ovechkin and Nylander in points for the preseason with 4.
The Caps got the early goal on a Clark power play tally, but the B's answered back with a couple of goals to take the lead halfway through the first. Gordon's goal evened things out before the first intermission. The Caps took the lead back scoring the only goal in the second frame, but the Bruins answered right back at the start of the third. Bourque banged home the game winner on a Marco Strum penalty with assists from Sergei Fedorov and Brooks Laich.
The Caps penalty kill took center stage this afternoon as they were able to kill off all 6 penalties including two 5 on 3's. The power play was pretty potent as well working toward an efficient 2 for 3 which included Bourque's game winner with 2:15 left in the game. Jakub Cutta, Jeff Schultz and Fedorov were the only players on either team to have a -2 rating on the night.
Jose Theodore played the first 2 periods and turned away 13 shots allowing two goals. Brent Johnson got his first look at the preseason and saved 15 only allowing a single tally.
Caps are back at Kettler on Sunday then it's the Devils for a Monday night matchup at the rock.
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