| 17 April 2009
One goal. The Capitals played one of their worst defensive games this year, and they only lost by one goal.
The Capitals had everything they needed for a win, except the defense. They dominated in shots, the faceoff circle might as well have been their backyard, and the power play went two for seven.
The Caps defense and goaltending could have been average, and they'd probably have won that game.
But now Game Two is a must-win for the Caps because they don't want to squander their home ice advantage.
Their 29-9-3 home record was one of the best in the NHL, and New York's 26-11-3 home record should indicate that Madison Square Garden is no pushover pond.
The Capitals must win this game to keep the faith in the fanbase, put pressure on the Rangers going into the road trip, and find the defensive groove that has been missing for the past few games. That's where a win is going to be bred, not just in between the pipes, but also a few feet in front of Theodore.
Too much focus is being placed on whether Jose Theodore can be rock-solid in net. We're not blind, Theodore was bad, but exactly how can he elevate his game when his defense makes the slot look like a welcome mat?
Winning almost always falls on the backs of the defense, and any playoff series will be won on the blueliners' backs.
Players to watch
Alex Ovechkin: Two assists and 13 shots on goal, not to mention his usual freight-train hits -- we're pretty sure Ovechkin's about to hit full stride. Ovechkin is a crowd pleaser, and Saturday games are always good crowds. They're also filled with points for Ovechkin. He has 11 goals and 10 assists in Saturday games. To those who think getting up for matinee games is tough, don't tell Ovechkin that. In nine matinee games, he has 11 goals and three assists. So with the game on NBC and the hockey world watching, don't be surprised if Ovechkin pulls out a ratings-rocket of a performance.
Marc Staal: If Ovechkin is our official player to watch for the Caps, then you might as well be watching his shadow. Continuing the "night and day" theme, Marc Staal might be one who hates matinees. He's a -9 in 10 day games this season. Staal had 18 minutes of ice time in the Rangers' Game One win, while Ovechkin had 26. If Staal isn't the man to contain Ovechkin, then Wade Redden might be given the task.
Two-Day Break
Since January, the Caps are 6-0-3 when playing after two days of rest. The season record is 13-4-4.
Tweet Tweet!
If you're a follower of CapsFans, then be sure to tweet us during the game! We'll be twittering from the game, and we'd love to see your comments as well. Just tweet @CapsFans during the game and some of the best ones will appear on CK in our post-game wrapup! Not following CapsFans yet? Well, what are you waiting for!
LET'S GO CAPS!
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
