Recap: Caps 4, Panthers 1
by Becca H on Nov 6, 2009 10:49 PM EST
in Game Recaps
141 comments
[AP Recap - GameCenter - Game Summary - Event Summary]
The Capitals came into Sunrise, Florida minus one Russian superstar and caught in a three-game losing streak. They would come away from the game down a few more men, but with a win that could be one of the most satisfying of the season.
Sure, there were a few lapses that we've grown accustomed to seeing. A few too many passes, a little less focus around their own net, same old, same old. But overall the Caps buckled down and not only took an early lead but held it, built on it and shut down the Panthers until the game was nearly over.
Ten more thoughts on the game:
- As if losing Ovechkin to an injury wasn't bad enough, the Caps' lineup became even more depleted - and depleted quickly - as both Mike Green and Jeff Schultz left the game with undisclosed injuries before we were even halfway through. Thank goodness for Boudreau's ESP, dressing a defenseman as a forward just in case...that's why he did it, right?
- The defenseman in question was, of course, Tyler Sloan, who picked up his second goal in as many games and then slid seamlessly back to the blueline when called upon to finish the night a +3.
- No one is necessarily saying it's easy to replace a pane of glass. Still, how on earth does it take ten minutes?
- In the past few days all eyes have been on Alexander Semin, waiting to see if he would take over the reins with Ovechkin on the sidelines. Tonight's effort was much better, but this time around it felt like he was trying to do too much on his own. Not a bad night for Semin, but not quite there yet, either.
- Coming into another team's building with a depleted lineup and a losing streak, the Caps needed to play simple, tight defense - and they did that. Lots of sticks and bodies in passing lanes, few odd-man rushes and 15 blocked shots; a workmanlike effort when one was needed.
- And when the defense wasn't there, when the shots got through, it was Jose Theodore coming up big. Sadly it was a fluky bounce on the power play that prevented this from being the perfect game he deserved, but a stellar effort by Theo nonetheless.
- If this is the kind of performance we get out of Brian Pothier after being benched, bench him more often. After a mediocre to downright lousy start to the year, Pothier had his best game in a long time with a goal, two assists, three shots, two hits and two blocked shots.
- Was this the night we finally saw the Laich-Morrison-Knuble line click? Hard to tell, but they certainly generated some great chances, as well as two of the four goals.
- The Caps proved that they could be (mostly) disciplined and perform (relatively) well on the power play, taking only two penalties and capitalizing on one of their two chances with the extra man. And how about that aggressive penalty kill on that five minute major, huh?
- Okay, about that. This is the second time in less than a year that Shaone Morrisonn has been given a five minute penalty and a game misconduct for a hit from behind in the last ten minutes of a Panthers game. Which could be a suspension, according to Bruce. Which...is not good.
This kind of game was exactly what the Caps needed, particularly after the horrific end to their last game. They proved they can work hard, hold a lead for a whole game, stay (mostly) disciplined and still come through with offense from likely and unlikely sources. The trick now is carrying this effort into yet another thrilling meeting with the Panthers, right back here in the District.
Hey, let's do this again tomorrow, shall we?
Game highlights:
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OUCH.
I think I got an upper-body injury reading the recap. I might be out tomorrow night.
by TylerG on Nov 6, 2009 10:50 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Not you, too! Damn it…do we have a backup snarky commenter on the roster? Anyone?
by Becca H on Nov 6, 2009 10:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Caps would’ve been positively felted without Sloaner.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 6, 2009 10:50 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
And Sloan should be +4 for saving that puck that squirted through Jose.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 6, 2009 10:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He was robbed of a star I tells ya! Robbed!
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Nov 6, 2009 10:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Like Perreault was robbed of 2 points!
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 6, 2009 10:53 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Yeah, Potsy stole his helper, for sure.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 6, 2009 10:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Poti missing the wide open net on the PP made me groan.
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 6, 2009 10:58 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That was a tough shot, I’m not too broken up about it – if Ovechkin is there, yes, that’s in. It was a nice try, though.
And am I crazy, or did Poti have a pretty decent game in his own right?
by Becca H on Nov 6, 2009 10:59 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He was, and had to be, pretty good.
If he was a righty, that shot was definitely in.
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 6, 2009 10:59 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He stepped up and played big minutes. But you’ve gotta at least make the goalie make a save on a play like the one jDC’s referring to.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 6, 2009 10:59 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Fair point. I think I’m less annoyed by that (and the non-goal dribbler in the first minute or two of the game) because we won. Tends to make me care less about missing wide-open nets.
…damn you, Esa Tikkanen.
by Becca H on Nov 6, 2009 11:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
But according to 2, Sloan is “Deion Sanders.” Which is -100.
by TylerG on Nov 6, 2009 10:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Sloan is one BAMF.
Wonder if he can play goal, too.
by RedBirdie on Nov 6, 2009 10:56 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Sloan is to Washington what Ian White is to TML
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Nov 6, 2009 10:59 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
…fewer facial hair issues? I don’t know, grammar are unpossible tonight.
by Becca H on Nov 6, 2009 11:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Its’ okays
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Nov 6, 2009 11:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Given a choice between Bourque and Sloan, anyone still think we lost out?
Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men's blood...Make big plans, aim high in hope and work. - Daniel H. Burnham
Fan Clubs: Sloan, Schultz
by gotsparkly on Nov 6, 2009 11:37 PM EST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Well nobody told me he was a better forward than CB. :-)
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 7, 2009 12:40 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Related: Anyone of the "2/3 of you who voted "Laing"":http://www.japersrink.com/2009/10/23/1096733/pick-em-quintin-laing-or-tyler want to re-vote?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 7, 2009 9:11 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
While the Sloan Lobby is an inclusive Lobby and we wish no hard feelings on anyone and have nothing but the utmost respect for a guy like Q who so clearly loves the sport, busts his ass every day, and quite literally has risked his life for the game…….Tyler Sloan fucking rocks!
by RedBirdie on Nov 7, 2009 12:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Tyler Sloan fucking rocksskates at an NHL level!
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 7, 2009 2:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
We knew that from his first shift. Sends Daymond Langkow skates-over-teakettle in open ice and keeps his feet.
Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men's blood...Make big plans, aim high in hope and work. - Daniel H. Burnham
Fan Clubs: Sloan, Schultz
by gotsparkly on Nov 7, 2009 2:39 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Quintin Laing says not so fast…
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 7, 2009 11:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
bad ass mo fo
bitch ass monkey fo
But Brawndo's got what plants crave. It's got electrolytes.
by hotdog88gt on Nov 7, 2009 7:20 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So, 2 goals in two games, playing out of position. When needed, switched easily back midgame to natural position, and played well, even stopping a puck from crossing the line behind Theo.
So, for the record, who is missing Chris Smith and his 1 assist? (I did hate to lose him for nothing though.)
by HateOffSeason on Nov 6, 2009 11:11 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
We didn’t lose him for nothing. I take joy in Pensblog’s pain when he plays.
/nuttin’ personal on CBo, he means well and has worked so hard
IS PЯESS BOX NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 7, 2009 12:19 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
More 89-85-17 please. Call up more d-men, and let Sloaner play forward – that line was easily my favorite line to watch the last two games.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Nov 6, 2009 11:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
They looked good. MP really helps allow them to get going in the zone.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 6, 2009 11:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s looking more and more like size is the only thing that’s kept Perreault out of the NHL, because his skills and smarts made him look solid. If he can stay healthy at that size, we have another piece to look at for the future/maybe move for something. He’s really impressed me.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Nov 6, 2009 11:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah he has looked better than even I expected so early. His hustle is amazing, he’s tough enough to go where he has to. He’s shifty enough that he rarely gets hit cleanly and even when he does he fights through. There was the one play behind the FLA net where he got pinched against the boards and taken down but kept the puck away from the D and got back to his feet maintaining possession, just an amazing job.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 6, 2009 11:58 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That was a great move. I replayed it 3 or 4 times…playing the puck from his knees, behind him, comes up with it despite FLA D-man.
He had another play (in the 2nd?), drew two FLA D-men to him, he did a kind of drop-pass (though it was in front) to Clarky. He got squarshed on that one a bit, but he normally seems to squeak right out of those hits along the board.
by Whisp on Nov 7, 2009 12:25 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If MP can continue to make 17 look serviceable….never send him back to Hershey.
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 7, 2009 12:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He’ll go back because of contract issues, I have no doubt. But, yeah, I was screaming at the TV to let him stay, too.
Who’re the call-ups tomorrow? I doubt we can afford Alzner, can we? Maybe Carlson should come up, though, we’ll need an Off.D.
by DrinkingPartner on Nov 7, 2009 1:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
GMGM just sent Stretch out to Office Depot for a case of adding machine tape, and two cases of Red Bull.
IS PЯESS BOX NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 7, 2009 1:01 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
they score tonight
they might just need a nickname
by DonnieKnutts on Nov 7, 2009 1:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think that lines success is all number 85. Sloan is playing really well though.
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Nov 7, 2009 2:26 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree. Sloan looks a lot better at F now that MP is his C. He wasn’t exactly making anything happen on his own. I’d like to see MP play with skill players at some point but there’s no point rushing/forcing him up the depth chart if he can keep that 4th line looking solid.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 7, 2009 2:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Casper Semin
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 6, 2009 10:53 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
You gotta admit, he had a much better night than the Devils game. He had his chances, which was good. And he didn’t hamstring the team with any penalties.
Please, sir, I want some BMo.
by Steck It Out on Nov 6, 2009 11:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I didn’t really notice him, except for when he was in the penalty box at the end of ShaMo’s major.
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Nov 6, 2009 11:24 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Better than noticing him for his own 6 PIM.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 6, 2009 11:25 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Did they mention on the Caps broadcast that they almost took a penalty because of that? I guess BB figured he’d get a whistle before the penalty expired, which he did. 22 seconds before.
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 7, 2009 12:43 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah they did and then the offsides saved the Caps. Totally inept.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 7, 2009 12:57 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I guess it technically wasn’t a penalty if they continued to play a man down, but nonetheless…
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 7, 2009 12:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
5 minute PK and no Semin…’til it was time to sit in the box.
Message sent.
IS PЯESS BOX NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 7, 2009 1:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
“Casper” – perfect.
But Brawndo's got what plants crave. It's got electrolytes.
by hotdog88gt on Nov 7, 2009 7:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Green’s physical play is going to make Washington regret giving him a long term big money contract.
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 6, 2009 10:55 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Ill-advised, surely. What were they thinking!
IS PЯESS BOX NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 7, 2009 12:20 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think that ThugLife52’s representation may have factored into the equation there.
"I'm just doing karate and trying to get females pregnant."
by Bald Pollack on Nov 7, 2009 7:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Sloan was solid, Jose was solid (and lucky in some respects!), and Semin had a good start in two ways — not playing too cutesy with the puck, and not playing like a total moron with stupid sticking penalties. I did see one instance early in the first when he slashed down at someone, but nothing came of it (thankfully). Someone obviously got through to him for tonight, but I’m not going to hold my breath for tomorrow.
As for ShaMo…. it looked from the replay on Comcast that the guy (McArdle?) turned his back to ShaMo just as the hit was coming. :-\
by CamaroWRX on Nov 6, 2009 10:56 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
If this is the kind of performance we get out of Brian Pothier after being benched, bench him more often.
This has been my concern and it was the inconsistency I’ve been talking about. He did this in OTT, he did it under Hanlon, and now we can say that, yes, he is doing it under BB. Why can’t he just play like that without having to be benched?
And that 3 point night comes with an * because he robbed MP of an assist when he tipped that pass like a jerk when it wasn’t going for him.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 6, 2009 10:57 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Jerk store called
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 6, 2009 10:58 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone know if Chris “I love to screw the Capitals in third periods” Rooney was the one who called the major on Shaone?
by chockster on Nov 6, 2009 10:58 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Doesn’t matter. No brainer of a major.
by TylerG on Nov 6, 2009 11:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Am I the only one who didn’t see it that way? In my mind, it was a boarding/elbowing minor – exasperated by the fact that the guy did an ugly face plant against the glass, exasperated by the fact that the refs could have called 4 or 5 penalties on the Capitals to that point, but didn’t.
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 7, 2009 12:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
exacerbated
/JP
IS PЯESS BOX NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 7, 2009 12:52 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No Jerry, it’s STA-TUEEEEEEEEE.
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 7, 2009 12:54 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, if it wasn’t, it was Bill “I love to screw the Capitals in all three periods and overtime” McCreary, so I’m not sure it makes a difference.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 6, 2009 11:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Like I said earlier, the gruesome twosome at work once again. I’m shocked – SHOCKED – that there were only a couple of penalties called.
by Becca H on Nov 6, 2009 11:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
McCreary hates the Rooskies, so with only one on the ice tonight, the Caps were safer than they usually are.
by RedBirdie on Nov 6, 2009 11:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
i dunno but if anybody should be complaining about refs
it’s the other side. the repik minor on which Pots scored was pretty much a joke and i’m sure we’d all be quite livid if it went the other way
by DonnieKnutts on Nov 7, 2009 1:44 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I know we already established this, but great addition with the highlights. Next time just try to get the Caps feed.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 6, 2009 11:05 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
That Po-the-er guy is pretty good, eh?
by DebCapsFan on Nov 6, 2009 11:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Sure is. And that’s impressive because he had a tough act to follow from last game.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 6, 2009 11:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Was it just me or were the FSN commentators calling Gabby Bodro?
Please, sir, I want some BMo.
by Steck It Out on Nov 6, 2009 11:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
FSN commenters are Coach Z and Strong Mad. Seriously, I don’t like anyone employed by that network – not one announcer from FSN sounds good in my mind.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Nov 6, 2009 11:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Man, Steckel was robbed of an assist. Good takeaway, good move to shake the defender, good pass, good shot by Knuble. Vokoun was just better.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 6, 2009 11:22 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Puck
Please, sir, I want some BMo.
by Steck It Out on Nov 6, 2009 11:24 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
For real. Awesome play by Stecks and still a very good save, but Knuble has to get that shot off the ice.
by grapejoos on Nov 6, 2009 11:56 PM EST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, Knuble’s good enough to bury the pass he got, but Stecks shorted him a bit. Get that pass out in front just a bit and Knuble roofs it.
"I think the relentless negative coverage in The Washington Post is a real difference from previous years," Redskins general counsel David Donovan said. "But in terms of the way our actual fans are behaving, we don't see any difference."
by Sct112 on Nov 7, 2009 12:06 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure about Semin tonight though. He was awful. Lost the puck every time he had it. Created no chances, except a botched half-breakaway. His line with Baxter and Flash was completely ineffectual and created no sustained pressure. He didn’t take killer penalties, but his performance was still disappointing.
by katzistan on Nov 6, 2009 11:35 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Like you said, he didn’t take killer penalties. Baby steps.
by Steckel Me Elmo on Nov 6, 2009 11:41 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Really don’t like the makeup of that line at all though. The carebears work in part because #8 is, well, #8. Subtract Ovechkin and replace with Flash and it is just a straight loss across the board.
Really would have more balance with either Knuble on the top line with 19/28, or Laich. The other one on the 2nd line with Mo and Flash. Get that nice skill + effort + grit on both lines that way.
by HateOffSeason on Nov 6, 2009 11:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Completely agreed. BB should pick 1 C, pick 1 finesse wing, pick 1 net crasher. We’d have two balanced lines. I don’t get it, seems so simple.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 6, 2009 11:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The chemistry bonus would go through the roof..
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 6, 2009 11:46 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
You could have two balanced lines, and then teams know what to expect and can prepare for both the same way, rather than worrying about having to deal with two lines at two paces. There’s definitely an argument for both sides to this, though.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Nov 6, 2009 11:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That’s not a particularly solid argument. This isn’t football. Preparation for different “packages” is not that important. Teams know who to be careful around but you generally are going to play the same system against anyone. I honestly don’t see any upside to the finesse line and the garbage line.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 6, 2009 11:55 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll let BB play line-maker. I see both as viable options, and if anyone here knows hockey isn’t football, it’s me. I don’t watch the sport at all.
Having different line-make ups is good, if you ask me, because it forces teams to look at playing defense different ways, and it becomes more “read react” than “They tend to do this, let me stop it.” I don’t know, assigning the same role to every line makes your team one dimensional, I think.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Nov 7, 2009 12:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Since the Laich/Morrison/Knuble line was effective again, they probably are in no hurry to break than one up.
Otherwise, here’s my proposal. Rearrange our top 6 forwards into the “Good Boy Line” and the “Bad Boy LIne”. The Good Boy Line would be our first line and it would consist of Flash/Backstrom/Laich. The Bad Boy line would be our second line and would consist of Semin/Morrison/Knuble. The skill sets are balanced out and if someone’s in the box, the Good Boys can kill penalties. The Bad Boys (when not in the box) can be on a PK together.
by CapsFan75 on Nov 7, 2009 12:09 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It seems to make sense, but sometimes doesn’t work — maybe it’s chemistry. Flash-Mo-Knuble and Laich-Backs-Semin were the lines for the NJ game, and from the beginning I kept thinking those lines looked off. So I was relieved that Gabby switched them for this game. FBS wasn’t terrific tonight (but not terrible) and they’ve had chemistry in the past (read: that tic tac toe play from the other night) — they’ll find it; meanwhile, the Laich-Mo-Knuble line was great, and Laich and Mo really seem to play well together. Sometimes the obvious line combo isn’t the best.
All in all, a great effort. Seemed to me like a real difference maker was that the Caps were sending a forward to fight down low in the defensive zone more often than they’ve been doing, instead of letting one guy flounder down there while they rest of the guys wait for something to happen.
by #Six on Nov 7, 2009 1:07 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Switch Laich and Semin on the lines. Then, we have a balanced skill set. And we then have the good boys on one line (Flash, Backstrom, Laich) and the bad boys on the other (Semin, Morrison, Knuble).
by CapsFan75 on Nov 7, 2009 12:14 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
that's twice in two games
that i’ve read that semin “botched” a breakaway… i mean, i know it’s semantics here, but how is getting stopped by the goalie “botching” a breakaway? to me “botching” would be letting the puck roll off your stick or losing control before getting a shot off. on both plays, semin simply couldn’t get the puck past the netminder…and on both plays his rink awareness and speed created the opportunities. ovie gets stoned on breakaways too, it happens. just feel like people are looking for any reason to down 28, i mean i know he hasn’t helped his cause but still…
by DonnieKnutts on Nov 7, 2009 1:48 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He didn’t hit the net against NJD. I won’t give him flack for the FLA one because he did have a D hot on his tail and ’Koun made the save, but he never got the puck on net against Brodeur.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 7, 2009 1:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Perreault had 3 minutes more ice time tonight. Like to see that trend continue!
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 6, 2009 11:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
But with 18 skaters this time.
"I'm just doing karate and trying to get females pregnant."
by Bald Pollack on Nov 7, 2009 7:58 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
We don’t even have 18 skaters to dress anyhow.
by CapsFan75 on Nov 7, 2009 8:40 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Shhhhh
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 7, 2009 2:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I feel like it’s a weekly tradition for 52 to get “injured.” Let’s see what it is this time.
"My face is my mask."
by jakeshapiro on Nov 6, 2009 11:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
so, the november injury disaster is becoming an annual tradition?
by RedBirdie on Nov 6, 2009 11:45 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Seems so.
And who will come up to replace them? It’s probably time to put people on LTIR, like Boyd Gordon. Is Fehr coming back soon or does he need to go on also? He’s already missed 5 games, counting today. The Caps are procrastinators when it comes to putting people on LTIR.
by CapsFan75 on Nov 7, 2009 12:11 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, hate that shit.
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 7, 2009 12:12 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Unless Gordo plays tomorrow, I’m guessing he goes on LTIR, retroactively. Doesn’t free up too much room, though.
by RedBirdie on Nov 7, 2009 12:12 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Every little bit helps. Surely there exists a Hershey guy who can help us who’s cheaper than BG. (Now if Ovi goes on LTIR……..)
by CapsFan75 on Nov 7, 2009 8:41 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
not sure about cheaper. Too lazy to look it up, but Gordo’s playing for somewhere around $750,000, iirc.
by RedBirdie on Nov 7, 2009 12:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Also, without Ovie in the lineup, this is the first Caps game of the season I’ve seen that isn’t on the NHL.com homepage. Sigh.
"My face is my mask."
by jakeshapiro on Nov 6, 2009 11:47 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
this!
No respect!
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Nov 7, 2009 12:08 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Perreault after hearing he didn’t get credit for the assist on Sloan’s goal.
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 7, 2009 12:10 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Are we back under the radar ala 07/08?
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 7, 2009 12:16 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Until Ovi comes back :)
Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men's blood...Make big plans, aim high in hope and work. - Daniel H. Burnham
Fan Clubs: Sloan, Schultz
by gotsparkly on Nov 7, 2009 12:53 AM EST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe we do better when we are under the radar.
by CapsFan75 on Nov 7, 2009 8:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Don't bet against the Avalanche this year.
Third or fourth parlay they’ve friggin spoiled for me. sigh.
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 6, 2009 11:52 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
When a decent team has a bad year and gets a high draft pick, you can never bet against them.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Nov 6, 2009 11:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Especially when said bad team had a) a lot of injuries; b) a shitty coach that they replaced; and c) gets a huge upgrade in net. All the signs were there for a huge turn around but nobody put it together until they were off and running.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 6, 2009 11:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Just keep saying to myself “they gotta lose eventually!”
Fuck.
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 7, 2009 12:05 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Looks kinda like BOS last year. Nobody expected them to be that good then you look at the roster and the coach and goalie and it kinda makes sense that they’re winning. Only big difference is that the BOS coach was much more proven and BOS goalie was marginally more proven.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 7, 2009 12:09 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I knew Anderson was going to go in there and beat ass. I just thought the friggin Hawks could do the job.
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 7, 2009 12:10 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The Avs time will come. Just don’t jump into the water until you see the blood.
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 7, 2009 12:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And this year, Boston seems to be struggling. (They’ll get a lottery pick since Toronto’s having an epic fail season.)
by CapsFan75 on Nov 7, 2009 12:12 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
They’re hurt as balls.
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
by jordanDC on Nov 7, 2009 12:13 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
True. Savard is out. Krejci now has swine flu. One other key player is out.
Kessel went bye bye.
by CapsFan75 on Nov 7, 2009 12:16 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Snakebit, is Boston.
IS PЯESS BOX NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 7, 2009 12:22 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
basically losing your entire 1st line sure doesn’t help matters. Kessel put them in a touch spot, and ultimately moving him will prove to be the silver lining on this season for BOS, but i still can’t make heads or tails of that Thomas deal (especially with a legit prospect NHL ready) — what a terrible contract.
by 718CapsFan on Nov 7, 2009 12:26 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It would be like if we lost Backstrom and Semin at this point. (Don’t want to think about it although everyone is ready to let Semin go at this point.)
On last night — it’s a good think we didn’t make Semin a healthy scratch. While he didn’t contribute on the score sheet, it’s still a warm body who can skate and give other people a chance to rest up between shifts.
That would have been bad: 3 defensemen (okay 4, with Sloan back there) and 10 forwards.
by CapsFan75 on Nov 7, 2009 8:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Test driving a new avatar
To go with the sig.
How do I look?
IS PЯESS BOX NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 7, 2009 12:25 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Figures. I go out on a Friday night, I saw Sloan’s goal and then had to leave, and they look good.
Now I hope folks realize why I said we shouldn’t be in any hurry to trade defensive depth. Injuries always happen. With the Caps that always seems to go double I might add.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 7, 2009 12:30 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Anyone catch the CSN interview with Q between periods?
Seeing the cuts, missing teeth, busted shins, bleeding eyelids, and ruptured spleen of Quintin Laing reminded me tonight that I’m A-okay with all them guys making big bucks for what they do…since I pull a muscle using a mouse, they can have it.
Maybe the most amazing thing was Q saying he was paid $400/week in the ECHL for 3 years doing the same thing. Jesus.
by Whisp on Nov 7, 2009 12:30 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
He paid his dues there’s no doubt about it.
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Nov 7, 2009 2:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He paid his several people’s dues there’s no doubt about it.
by redlineblue on Nov 7, 2009 12:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, he was pretty open about the financial benefit of being up with the big club. Talked about putting money away for the family while he can.
by Cluster on Nov 7, 2009 11:06 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
$400/week in the ECHL. That’s not much more than minimum wage. And when you figure out how many hours they put in per week, maybe it’s less.
Wow. Just wow.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 7, 2009 1:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If we had the cap space I would be all on board for making Q the 13/14th F. I don’t think he’s good enough to play everyday though.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 7, 2009 2:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
sniff sniff Puck Daddy doesn’t get the Sloan love. Not even a mention of the first goal of the night and then seamlessly slipping back to D (oh, and suffering an injury of his own, but coming back out). Sigh. Well, he’ll just have to continue to be our little secret.
by RedBirdie on Nov 7, 2009 1:06 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Good. Flying under the radar is pretty useful.
Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men's blood...Make big plans, aim high in hope and work. - Daniel H. Burnham
Fan Clubs: Sloan, Schultz
by gotsparkly on Nov 7, 2009 1:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So, I’m now convinced this is a set play the Caps are running. This is the 2nd time in 3 games that the first goal of the game was scored on a 4-man rush led by Brian Pothier, taking a defender with him out of the lane, making room for, against Columbus with Backstrom, and last night for Sloan.
I cringe each time I see Bpo that far into the zone on a rush, but last night’s Sloan goal was identical to Nicky’s… and it’s working.
by FFSEnough on Nov 7, 2009 1:12 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I don’t see why we can’t draw something up for Juice!
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 7, 2009 1:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The issue is why we don’t have guys drive that center lane more often (and why the Fs aren’t doing it). Driving the center lane is a fundamental offensive “play.” I wouldn’t call it a set play, it’s just what you’re supposed to do. We have too many guys who want to play on the perimeter though so we don’t see it nearly as often as we should.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 7, 2009 2:44 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If Flash keeps doing what he’s doing, hopefully he shames some of the other guys into making that play.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 7, 2009 2:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
However it happens, I’m cool with it. But right now I tend to look at it as a coaching issue.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 7, 2009 3:07 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ditto and probably is, respectively.
Driving the center lane, 65 second shifts, first unit on the ice for the entire PP, a breakaway against per game, the breakout (or lack thereof), as someone else pointed out, has only one play, a lot of that is on the coaching staff. They did a good job getting the talent to where it should be, but the coaching staff needs to take the next step, same as the players do.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 7, 2009 3:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t disagree. The only one where I have any sympathy for the coaching staff is the breakout. When you have so many D that are just not good with the puck it makes it hard to run an NHL breakout. Poti and Pothier absolutely need to step up their game and start making some of those crisp tape to tape passes we expect from “puck moving D.” Green is the one man breakout (or maybe the only one man that can breakout) and every time he goes down we really see/feel the effects with our inability to get out of our zone. That could be coaching, for sure, but I am sympathetic considering the personnel. Not driving the center lane and not having a net presence is inexcusable. We have Laich and Knuble and enough other guys that can do that job that we shouldn’t be a pansy perimeter team.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 7, 2009 3:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m no hockey coach and not sure about how they entered the zone for it, but BMo’s first goal was somewhat similar – he was streaking down the slot and got a pass from the corner. He did more to wait out Vokoun, but in watching the highlights last night they struck me as similar plays.
by grapejoos on Nov 7, 2009 4:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Washington
|
21 | 13 | 4 | 4 | 30 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
19 | 8 | 4 | 7 | 23 |
|
Atlanta
|
18 | 10 | 6 | 2 | 22 |
|
Florida
|
19 | 8 | 9 | 2 | 18 |
|
Carolina
|
21 | 4 | 12 | 5 | 13 |
(updated 11.20.2009 at 9:16 AM EST)
Certain photos copyright © 2009 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
