2009-10 Washington Capitals Season Preview

by David M. Getz on Sep 29, 2009 6:42 AM EDT Comment 215 comments

More photos » Pablo Martinez Monsivais - AP

2008-09 Season Recap: What's really amazing about the Capitals' 2008-09 season is just how much went wrong. The new starting goaltender was inconsistent, finished with mediocre-at-best numbers in the regular season, and was pulled in the first playoff game. The three big free agent signings who had been brought in a year earlier to fill key spots in the lineup failed to make the kind of impact they had in their first seasons in D.C. as Tom Poti missed thirty games, Viktor Kozlov saw his production slip, and Michael Nylander became such a non-entity that he was relegated to the press box for most of the playoffs and sat out the team's final playoff game in favor of Jay Beagle. A largely inexperienced defense corps saw six of its members miss ten games or more due to injury, necessitating 93 man-games from defensemen who started the season in Hershey of the AHL. The second line center position - considered a strength at the season's outset due to the presence of Nylander and Sergei Fedorov - remained unsettled for much of the season. The team's secondary scoring was non-existent at times, and they went through long periods (a.k.a. February and March) looking disinterested and uninspired.

And, despite all of that, they finished with 50 wins and 108 points.

That kind of regular season success is incredible under any set of circumstances, and the fact that the Capitals could perform at that level with so much going wrong should be encouraging to Capitals fans, even in the wake of last year's Eastern Conference Semis Game Seven faceplant that unceremoniously ended the season. It should also put the rest of the NHL very much on its toes.

Make the jump for roster changes, strengths, weaknesses, the team's depth chart, and our predictions.

Who's In:

Mike Knuble, RW - Knuble wasn't the biggest name available this summer, nor was he the flashiest player or the most skilled. But what he was (and is) is the perfect fit for the Capitals - he provides a lot of what the team needs (net presence, grit, size, leadership) where they need it (right wing). Having his 6'3'', 230 pound frame in front of the goal will make things more difficult for opposing goalies during Caps power plays and should give his linemates more space to work with at even strength. And having a knack for collecting and depositing loose pucks around the net won't hurt when he's playing on a line with a guy who has registered nearly a thousand shots on goal over the past two seasons.
Brendan Morrison, C - Morrison is another veteran who was brought in not to change the dynamic of the team or become a go-to guy, but rather to fill a hole and compliment the team's existing core - which is perfect because at this point in his career that's the role Morrison's best suited for. He should provide solid defense on the second line while still being able to keep up with the likes of Alexander Semin, Tomas Fleischmann, Brooks Laich, and Knuble offensively.

Who's Out:

Donald Brashear, LW - There's a part of most Caps fans that will miss watching Brashear drop the mitts for the good guys, but the bottom line on Brash is that his production is going down, his salary is going up, and he isn't getting any younger. Couple those facts with the ability to put a more skilled player from either a defensive (Quintin Laing) or offensive (Chris Bourque) standpoint, and there's no reason to be the slightest bit upset about that fact that Brash will be wearing someone else's red, white, and blue this season... so long as the "team toughness" we've been hearing so much about is, in fact, real.
Sergei Fedorov, C - It's sad to see a legend leave both the Capitals and the NHL, but the reality is that Fedorov, while productive when he played, had durability issues, took too many penalties, and sometimes looked like he had trouble keeping up with the Capitals style of play. They team (some players more than others, no doubt) will miss his versatility and his veteran presence, but we have to think the team will be better off moving forward with a healthy Morrison as the second-line center. We'll always have Game Seven, though, won't we?
Viktor Kozlov, RW - A quintessential example of a player brought in to "bridge the gap," Kozlov was good in 07-08 and barely passable in 08-09 (flunking out of the Dainius Zubrus School of Statistical Inflation). We thank him for his contributions to those two teams (those two tallies in Game Six of the Penguins series were nice), and wish him well in Russia... but we'll gladly take Mike Knuble in his place.

Four Strengths

Elite offensive talent - The Caps' "Young Guns" (Alex Ovechkin, Semin, Nicklas Backstrom and Mike Green) all finished in the top 13 in the League in regular season points-per-game in 2008-09, with Green the only defenseman in the top-60. These kids - not one of whom is yet 26 years old - haven't even reached their respective primes yet. If healthy, the sky's the limit for the quartet.
The powerplay - Piggybacking off that last point, the Caps were second in the league in power play conversion last season when Green missed 14 games, Semin missed 20, and the team lacked consistent net presence (save for Laich). The unit could be even better this year (thanks to Knuble and hopefully healthy years from Chris Clark and Brian Pothier), but even if it's not, it will remain one of the most feared in the League.
Depth on the blue line - At the moment the Capitals have at least eight guys who are clearly capable of taking a regular shift in the NHL, with at least a couple more in Hershey. That doesn't change the fact the team could use another legitimate top-four guy, but it's also an organizational strength very few NHL teams have.
The third line - While we don't know who, exactly, will comprise the third line (especially with Fleischmann and Eric Fehr on injured reserve to start the season), we do know that it will be a strong unit. David Steckel will almost certianly be the center and the wings should be filled out by a combination of Laich, Clark, Fehr, and Bourque (sorry, Matt Bradley Fan Club - we don't see him filling that role long-term). The Caps third line should have everything you look at that spot in the lineup - size, grit, defensive skill, and the ability to chip in on offense - and should ensure the opposition can't afford to take any shifts off.

Four Weaknesses

Discipline - Last year's Caps team took far, far too many penalties that were either lazy, selfish, or unnecessary and, as a result, they were shorthanded as often as just about anyone anyone else in the league. The departures of Fedorov and Brashear should help, but the team still has a lot of guys who take too many bad penalties.
High-end defensemen - Mike Green's just as good as his Norris Trophy Finalist status suggests, and both Tom Poti and and Jeff Schultz are solid defenders who bring a lot of value as penalty killers. After those three, however, there's a pretty steep drop off that inherently results in at least one guy being given more minutes and more responsibility than he should be. The addition - or emergence - of one more top-four defenseman would make a world of difference for this team right now.
Goaltending - Granted, this could turn out to be one of the team's greatest strengths, given the trajectory on which youngsters Semyon Varlamov and Michal Neuvirth find themselves. But at the moment, those two kids have combined to play fewer NHL minutes (playoffs included) than incumbent starter Jose Theodore played either before or after last year's All-Star Break. Competition should drive each of the three to be at his best, but the question mark in goal is certainly real in October... which may or may not matter in April.
Enforcement - Bradley's always willing to throw if need be, but doesn't have the win-loss record to match his heart. John Erskine can certainly handle himself when the rough stuff gets going, but concussions have limited how often he's dropped the mittens in recent years. Enforcement, for now, has given way to team toughness. We'll see if that can last for 82 games.

X-Factor: Bob Woods. If the new assistant coach can overhaul the defense the way some people think he can, the Caps could become the team to beat in the East.

Depth chart:

Left Wing	Center		Right Wing
Alex Ovechkin	Nicklas Backstrom		Mike Knuble
Tomas Fleischmann	Brendan Morrison		Alex Semin
Brooks Laich	David Steckel		Chris Clark
Quintin Laing	Boyd Gordon		Eric Fehr
Chris Bourque	Keith Aucoin		Matt Bradley
Oskar Osala	Jay Beagle		Alexandre Giroux
	Mathieu Perreault		Andrew Gordon
Other
Michael Nylander
Defense
Mike Green		Tom Poti
Jeff Schultz		Shaone Morrisonn
Brian Pothier		Milan Jurcina
John Erskine		Tyler Sloan
Karl Alzner		Sean Collins
John Carlson
Goaltender
Jose Theodore
Semyon Varlamov
Michal Neuvirth
Braden Holtby

Predictions

David: In the summer and fall before the 2007-08 season (and before I was blogging) I was yammering to anyone who would listen about how excited I was about the Capitals off-season and how much better they could be as a team. When pressed on how good I thought they were (and could be) my stock answer wound up being that I thought they would be a team that bounced around the last playoff spot or two for most of the season and eventually made it in with a late season run because I expected them to get better as the season went on, that I expected them to lose in the Conference Finals in the next (08-09) season, and to win the Cup the year after that. While I won't be so bold as to predict a Capitals Cup win in September in a public forum, I will say that the team's progression has been even better than I expected. They might not win the Cup, but the Caps should at the very least be in the Eastern Conference Finals - and I expect them to bring the Prince of Wales trophy to D.C.

Pepper: Team toughness sufficient to win a Cup, with or without Brashear, has yet to be demonstrated. That nebulous quality means physical play and an increased willingness to drive to the net "Fred Shero style," but also relentlessness -- keeping the foot on the gas pedal. Too often last season the team would shock their opponents with their jaw-dropping skill and energy, and then coast for the remainder of the contest. And we've seen some of that dynamic in this pre-season already. Regardless of whether or not we see a repeat of that behavior in the 2009-10 campaign, the talent on this team is more than enough for it to cruise to another Southeast Division title.

But, as currently constituted (i.e., well before the March trading deadline), what I foresee as the team's undoing in the playoffs is the lack of a veteran defenseman who has deep playoff, if not Cup winning, experience. Someone who can clear the crease or tie up a stick looking for rebounds. Without that, they'll still likely win two rounds next spring, but falter in the Eastern Conference finals.

J.P.: I think the real challenge for this Caps team will be staying reasonably focused over the course of an 82-game regular season and not picking up some of the bad habits they developed in February and March of last year that carried into the playoffs. The talent is there in spades - if this team wants to win and is willing to do what it takes to win, there's no reason they can't, and no reason they won't. They'll win the East, and then anything can happen.

Poll

Where will the Capitals finish the regular season?

First in the Eastern Conference

549 votes

First in the Southeast Division, but not first in the Conference

501 votes

Not first in the Southeast, but in the playoffs

16 votes

Out of the playoffs

10 votes

1076 votes | Poll has closed

4 recs | Comment 215 comments | Share

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Comments

So THIS is how Yankees fans feel

before the start of the season.

Great post. I’m feeling like the only thing that can stop the Caps is the Caps. And injuries, of course.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 6:57 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

So THIS is how ~~Yankees fans~~ feel

Bite your tongue, sir.

by Laich It Or Lump It on Sep 29, 2009 8:28 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

I’m feeling like the only thing that can stop the Caps is the Caps. And injuries, of course.

If they’re on their game there’s not a better team, frankly. Agreed.

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 8:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

And remember how well we fared when we encountered injuries last year. This is a strong, strong organization.

by DrinkingPartner on Sep 29, 2009 9:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yessir

It is. There are some key cogs that just aren’t replaceable, and injuries there would wreck all our lovely prognostications. Fortunately, those guys are young, so the odds are good, I think.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 9:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

except that everyone hates the Yankees.

by hockeyman33 on Sep 29, 2009 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don’t.

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by winterion on Sep 29, 2009 3:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Boudreau is a Yankee fan

"Baseball is drama with an endless run and an ever-changing cast." - Joe Garagiola
Chowdah Chatter - an outlet for my random thoughts and such.

by crabchowdah on Sep 29, 2009 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Great post.

That photo still makes me laugh. Watch those hands, Brads…

Fight, you time-wasting figure skaters!

by boutros23 on Sep 29, 2009 7:18 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I know right? That was my old avatar. Must be the superstition thing.

by bigmac1124 on Sep 29, 2009 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

No… it’s a sports thing. Trust me. I have seen some things, man. I have seen horrible things… The locker room is quite possibly the weirdest place on the planet.

Caps 'n Bears

by Bongos on Sep 29, 2009 10:17 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Did Canes Country Bob vote for # 3?

I figure they’ll repeat the division (though it won’t be as cut and dry as it was last year) and the 2 seed with Philly or Boston getting the 1.

"Hey friend, an avatar makes you more personable, friendly. Have I mentioned we serve cigars and flavored vodka?"

by Bald Pollack on Sep 29, 2009 7:25 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I voted the same way. I’m not sure this team has (or needs) the motivation to win the Conference, knowing how little such achievements can mean come playoff time.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Sep 29, 2009 7:30 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

Yes. I think they’ll fall short in the regular season, but win it in the playoffs.

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 8:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I voted #3 and after thinking about that for a few hours I stand by it. While I think the team is improved from last year I wonder if BB can get this team over the hump and into the conference finals or beyond. Even the last game against NYR felt like last year’s Caps team.

It’s a long season…

01-20-13...the end of an error

by hotdog88gt on Sep 29, 2009 9:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

wow, Ray Emery as the #1 seed ‘tender would be bizarro world. But I would love to see it, ’cause that’s a matchup in net even we win.

from the house that Red Jesus built

by bigonetimer on Sep 29, 2009 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hey, it could happen. The Flyers are no pushovers this year.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

They aren’t pushovers but Pronger isn’t that big of a difference. Even if he plays 30 minutes a game, that’s still 30 minutes where he’s not on the ice.

Emery and Boucher are the weakness, and oh, will it be exploited.

by TFG on Sep 29, 2009 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m sure Ovi is looking forward to it.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

certainly no pushovers

And I think Pronger is the most important difference for the Flyers this year if he’s healthy. But they have to win their division first before winning the east, and I see PIT taking care of business there.

from the house that Red Jesus built

by bigonetimer on Sep 29, 2009 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m sure they’d be happy to let the Pens win the division as long as they beat them in the playoffs. Flyers goalie situation is their weakness, I don’t see anyone arguing there, but they have a very nice lineup and Kimmo, Coburn, and Pronger on the blueline should certainly put some fear into us Caps fans.

by CP2Devil on Sep 29, 2009 5:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree; I was responding to Philly getting the #1 seed overall with Ray Friggin Emery between the pipes.

from the house that Red Jesus built

by bigonetimer on Sep 29, 2009 6:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Mike Knuble noted at his CapsCon panel that the first time he’ll face Philly in a Caps sweater is the Flyer’s home opener.

He noted with a grin that was pure evil.

IS PAЯTY NOW

by Your Nation's Capital on Sep 29, 2009 6:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

break out Kanoobie the ugly goal rally mutt!

Yeah, he seemed quite thrilled at the idea of beating down the Flyers in their home opener. I know he wasn’t exactly thrilled with how things ended there.

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 7:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

They aren’t pushovers but Pronger isn’t that big of a difference. Even if he plays 30 minutes a game, that’s still 30 minutes where he’s not on the ice.

And Ovechkin plays 23 minutes a night and is off the ice for 37, but he’d be a huge impact on any team that picked him up.

by David M. Getz on Sep 29, 2009 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

8 minutes of it on 4 powerplays…

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I disagree, he’s instantly the best defenseman in that division and Kimmo Timmonen is no slouch. Philly has a nasty top 4 and a seriously deep top 6. Carter is a 46 goal guy and he’ll be on the second line.

You can hide a lot of average or mediocre goaltending behind players like Pronger and Richards.

by Knee high to a duck on Sep 29, 2009 4:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Emery has been to a Cup on a team with a weaker D corps and less scoring depth than PHI has. Write them off at your own peril.

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’ll be entertaining to see how many haters show up.

Meh, I still think that Bob Woods could render the whole veteran defenseman thing moot, and I still think that what we think we need now is not going to be what we find ourselves needing come the deadline. That’s just the way this sport works.

I voted top of the East – why not go for it all? Expectations are and should be high and maybe if anyone on the team or in the front office reads this, they’ll know that the division isn’t good enough.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 7:39 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I voted top of the East – why not go for it all? Expectations are and should be high and maybe if anyone on the team or in the front office reads this, they’ll know that the division isn’t good enough.

I’d say they’re probably aware of the latter, but to the former, if you told me they could close out one or two playoff series in less than 7 games this go round, I’d be happy with wherever they finished the regular season.

"Hey friend, an avatar makes you more personable, friendly. Have I mentioned we serve cigars and flavored vodka?"

by Bald Pollack on Sep 29, 2009 7:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You’re too easily satisfied. How about four playoff rounds in less than seven games each? :) I know, I’m asking a lot, but why not? I think this batch of guys can do it.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 7:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Regular. Season. Means. Dick.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Sep 29, 2009 7:57 AM EDT up reply actions 14 recs

This can’t be green enough.

"Hey friend, an avatar makes you more personable, friendly. Have I mentioned we serve cigars and flavored vodka?"

by Bald Pollack on Sep 29, 2009 7:58 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

This can’t be Green enough.

Alright, that was weak.

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 8:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yup. I guess what’s got me is I don’t want them doing what they did last year – deciding they’re in and now they can slack off. That was bad and annoying, and that’s why I care about where they end up. I want to see them keep their foot on the gas.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 8:29 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Seems like that might have been the Penguins who listened to all of the praise about how they were the best team in the NHL and started slow… wait, maybe that is the key to winning this thing.

Like J.P. said, Regular. Season. Means. Van Dyke.

by Sct112 on Sep 29, 2009 8:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nah, I can do without the injuries they had.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 8:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I doubt a 1 seed as opposed to a 2 would have made much difference.

On second thought, Varly getting 4 instead of 6 first round games sounds pretty good.

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 8:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I see what you’re saying and agree. It forced me to look at the schedule, and completely forgot that there are 4 games vs. Boston and Pittsburgh in the last 3 weeks of the season. I’d presume any throttle-easing would be remedied with that.

"Hey friend, an avatar makes you more personable, friendly. Have I mentioned we serve cigars and flavored vodka?"

by Bald Pollack on Sep 29, 2009 8:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

We can hope. Also, a tougher division this year won’t hurt any.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 8:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don’t think that’ll fix the “throttle-easing”, but I think it means the slump comes earlier rather than later and they hit the postseason clicking at full power.

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 8:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

One thing about this year is that I think they’ll have learned from last year’s mistakes. For example, in ‘07-’08, they came into the playoffs blazing hot, and were really just too tired to compete at their level with Philly. So, in response to ‘07-’08, they started easing in the last month before the playoffs, hoping not to burn out as quickly as they did the previous year, and they eased a little too much.

This year, though, will be a response to both of those previous years, and I think they’ll have learned a few lessons along the way. I do really hope that Bob Woods is the key to the Defense, though.

by DrinkingPartner on Sep 29, 2009 9:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Honestly, I’ve already seen some promising signs. Schultz isn’t screening the goalie anymore – he’s out just a little bit more – and I’m seeing fewer shots from in close than I was last year. Maybe it’s just pre-season, but time will tell.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 9:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree — I am cautiously hyperventilating about Schutlz’s offseason development (both physical and mental). In preseason, he was a different player (and he was already pretty good to begin with)

Atta dinnin stick a who!

by Gould Old Days on Sep 29, 2009 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

Heh. Great turn of phrase, “cautiously hyperventilating”…same thing going on here, btw.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Rec’d, except that 7th game home advantage can be quite delicious when needed, especially for this team apparently.

by SeattleCapsFan on Sep 29, 2009 8:39 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pittsburgh and Philly sure have loved playing Game 7 here, that’s for sure.

"Hey friend, an avatar makes you more personable, friendly. Have I mentioned we serve cigars and flavored vodka?"

by Bald Pollack on Sep 29, 2009 8:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pitt and Philly can go fug themselves. If neither team made the playoffs because of spectacular implosions, it would make me year.

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes, but realistically? I think that our road to the Cup leads through one or the other, hopefully not both.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I generally adhere to my stepfather’s wisdom here – if you want to be the best, beat the best. Does winning the Stanley Cup take first billing? Sure. But, I won’t lament the Caps having to go through Philly, Pitt, Boston, Carolina, wherever the route takes them. It only makes the victory that much sweeter.

Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com

by winterion on Sep 29, 2009 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ugh. No thanks. I won’t weep a bit if the Caps can avoid any or all of Philly, Pitt and Boston.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 10:32 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

Your stepfather is Ric Flair?

"Hey friend, an avatar makes you more personable, friendly. Have I mentioned we serve cigars and flavored vodka?"

by Bald Pollack on Sep 29, 2009 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Umm… no. Nor is he remotely a fan of pro wrestling.
Interesting that there’s a parallel there, though. Perhaps I’ll give him a hard time about it. =)

Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com

by winterion on Sep 29, 2009 10:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

(With the obvious caveat.)

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 4:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree with that. The regular season means nothing. The team that’s on a roll and can mitigate playoff injuries has the best chance (especially if they have a Carolina team plowing the road in front of them for the first two rounds).

But Brawndo's got what plants crave. It's got electrolytes.

by hotdog88gt on Sep 29, 2009 9:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pepper: Team toughness sufficient to win a Cup, with or without Brashear, has yet to be demonstrated. That nebulous quality means physical play and an increased willingness to drive to the net “Fred Shero style,” but also relentlessness

Relentless. At the end of the season, ‘relentless’ is the word I will expect to see featured prominently every time the Caps are discussed.

IS PAЯTY NOW

by Your Nation's Capital on Sep 29, 2009 8:39 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

In 34 years, the Caps have advanced past the second round of the playoffs twice.

This team is not one of those clubs.

Until they are, they haven’t done anything in terms of the history of this franchise, 108 points in a season notwithstanding.

If you've read this far...seek help.

by ThePeerless on Sep 29, 2009 8:43 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Geez Peerless, we’re not talking about the Redskins here.

by Sct112 on Sep 29, 2009 8:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You really don’t think that this club has the makings to be one of the best in team history? Why not?

Fehr is fair, but I like Laich

by amkcaps on Sep 29, 2009 8:55 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs

But last time they did, the team Sergei Fedorov last played for (at the time) won.

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 8:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’ll take a stab at this.

What Peerless may be saying, to paraphrase, is “the saddest thing in life is wasted talent.” The makings only mean something when they go out and take it for themselves. Until then, let’s not one-up each other in the hyperbole championships.

"Hey friend, an avatar makes you more personable, friendly. Have I mentioned we serve cigars and flavored vodka?"

by Bald Pollack on Sep 29, 2009 9:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Teams that win championships expect to win them. And they don’t seem to think much of gaudy regular season statistics, either in terms of individual numbers or standings points. Those things take care of themselves. Think the Penguins or their fans are fretting about finishing fourth last year? No, because it just doesn’t matter. And at some point, the only thing that matters is being the last team to win a game in the NHL season.

108 points is nice. How many fans look upon the 107 point team from 1986 with reverence?

If this Caps team — and by that I mean this generation — doesn’t win a Cup, then it will in time be just another team in a long history of… meh.

If you've read this far...seek help.

by ThePeerless on Sep 29, 2009 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

While i agree with your concluding statement, we have a long road between now and the playoffs. For now, this team looks to me like the best in the East on paper. That’s enough to celebrate at the moment.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Actually, it’s not. There is no goaltender playing for the Caps this year who has played into a third round in the NHL playoffs. The regular season is for demonstrating that they have the potential to do that, but right now, the Caps might have the second best goaltending in the SE. Talent-wise, they could be fourth. 82 games could change that, but for now, they are weakest at the most important position come playoff time.

If you've read this far...seek help.

by ThePeerless on Sep 29, 2009 11:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Peerless, did you give Cheerless your password or something while you went and got a beer? :)

There are question marks, yes. Every team has question marks, whether the media pretends they do or not. Yes, the playoffs are the only part that really matters now, and that’s where the test of this team is going to come in. But, I don’t think you’re giving the kids enough credit. They’re mad. They’re hungry. It remains to be seen whether they’ll stay that way, but for right now, they are. Don’t give up the ship on this team yet.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m not giving up the ship at all. Later today, I’m going to have them finishing second in the East. I think they will lead the league in scoring and threaten to break 300 goals (a rarity in this decade, even after the lockout). I think they’ll have three players break 80 points. But all that is offense. The Penguins won last year, not because of Sidney Crosby’s or Evgeni Malkin’s considerable offensive gifts, but they had every man on the roster playing at both ends, and they had a goalie who finally stepped up. That’s what it will take to win in June.

The Caps can do that. Will they? Well, let’s see it.

If you've read this far...seek help.

by ThePeerless on Sep 29, 2009 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Exactly. What I like about the changes in the roster, at least for the opening, is that there are more guys who do play in their own end than we had last year. Defensively, Laing is an upgrade over Brashear, and Chris Bourque, even if his time here is limited, is no slouch, as the Calder Cup Final proved. What I want to see is whether Flash and Fehr are as effective as Bourque and Laing defensively, because we need them to be.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

We’re pretty sure that JT60 is not the answer come playoff time. Neuvy or Varly might be, we don’t know.

But what I’m saying is we can’t start handicapping the playoffs because we still have to get through the trade deadline. As opposed to last year, the Caps have some cap room to play with; they probably make at least one significant addition to the team at the deadline. Once we know what the roster looks like, then we can start chewing on that bone.

For the time being, I’m luxuriating in hockey being back and the Caps looking like a powerhouse that’s going to be a shedload of fun to follow for 82 games.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 11:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

but they had every man on the roster playing at both ends, and they had a goalie who finally stepped up.

You have to do that in the playoffs too?

Signed,

E. Nabokov

"Hey friend, an avatar makes you more personable, friendly. Have I mentioned we serve cigars and flavored vodka?"

by Bald Pollack on Sep 29, 2009 11:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Arguably Nabokov was the reason it even got to 6 games. And the year before, no question he had a big role in that epic series with Dallas (lost in 4OT of Game 6).

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

In both those series Nabokov had a couple real good games that people look to but was ordinary-to-disappointing in the other games. The difference in the series last year was that Hiller seemingly made every big save and Nabokov didn’t come up with many.

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

And on a related note:

While i agree with your concluding statement, we have a long road between now and the playoffs. For now, this team looks to me like the best in the East on paper. That’s enough to celebrate at the moment.

Ask a Sharks fan about this…

Atta dinnin stick a who!

by Gould Old Days on Sep 29, 2009 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well, if the Caps dominate a couple of years in the reg. season and then flame out in the playoffs, I’ll be right with you this one…hopefully that won’t happen. But it could. Caps have been flat in big situations consistently under BB; tod date they haven’t shown the kind of hard-nosed hockey that tends to lead to playoff success; and they don’t have that lock down goalie that you know you can lean on when the chips are down.

But I also don’t think they’re San Jose, either.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 12:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Alex Ovechkin>>>>>(Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau)^3

The day either Jumbo Joe or Marleau plays with the same intensity as Ovechkin will be the day that Pope Benedict sits down to Passover Seder with Jon Stewart.

by D'ohboy on Sep 29, 2009 12:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Don’t knock Marleau. He’s quiet but he shows up for SJS in the playoffs. He’s a far better playoff performer than he’s ever gotten credit for.

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You can’t question his performance, but even with a new coach they failed again, so in my mind that constitutes a reasonable argument against his leadership, one of the pitfalls of being a captain.

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That San Jose top 6 is nothing to trifle with. I got SJS as the team to beat out west this year, but what do I know?

from the house that Red Jesus built

by bigonetimer on Sep 29, 2009 6:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

During the regular season you’re right. My point to D’ohboy is that Marleau isn’t a playoff choker. I do agree that Joe needs to show more in the playoffs. He’s too passive and allows the D to keep him to the perimeter facing the glass and he just can’t produce in the playoffs like that.

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 6:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Other
Michael Nylander

Was that really necessary DMG?

by Sct112 on Sep 29, 2009 8:56 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I fully support this. If injuries occurred to five of the centers listed on the roster (plus Laich), I’d expect Kyle Wilson to be the next guy put in. I just don’t see Nylander playing for this team under any circumstances. He’s not on the depth chart at all.

Atta dinnin stick a who!

by Gould Old Days on Sep 29, 2009 9:03 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I loved the “Other” designation. At some point, he’s got to bear some responsibility for his situation. He has stubbornly refused to change his game to fit the game plan, despite numerous chances to do so.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 9:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

The salary cap might have something to say about that. On the whole I agree, but it seemed like a cheap laugh getter to me (not that I’m above getting cheap laughs).

by Sct112 on Sep 29, 2009 9:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I wonder what in the world their “solution” is going to be. Unless he just wanted to be cryptic about keeping him in the press box.

by DrinkingPartner on Sep 29, 2009 9:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think “other” fits. Where else do you put him on the depth chart? 3rd C? Last C?

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Sep 29, 2009 9:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

5th line C, aka “Other”.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think that there is a difference between where we (I say we because I’m included) want to see him and where he actually fits. In reality, I don’t think that MP or Aucoin will be called up if Nyls is on the bench unless its a long term injury (LTIR) to a center. The cap implications are too hairy and not worth it. He doesn’t fit, we all know it, but he’s here, they are paying him, and he is an NHL quality player.

Maybe I’m being too generous or overplaying the salary cap implications, but I’m hard pressed to see a weekend where Aucoin is called up because Steckel is down with the flu while they keep Nyls in the press box.

by Sct112 on Sep 29, 2009 10:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Corey’s tweets have him at 3C in practice.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 10:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think that’s just to make absolutely sure he actually doesn’t fit. If he develops chemistry and he starts playing well, someone is going back to Hershey for cap purposes.

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

As long as he’s on the roster, Nylander will practice with the team.

As long as he’s not one of the four best centers for this team, he’ll be a healthy scratch.

As long as someone in Hershey would do a better job than him, that person will get called up and will play instead of Nylander if there are any injuries.

Atta dinnin stick a who!

by Gould Old Days on Sep 29, 2009 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

I’m saying if suddenly Nyles meshes and gets to being a ~40p, + player, no reason to call up a guy from Hershey because Nylander in that case is a good replacement. Unlikely though.

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 2:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Was that really necessary DMG?

Wasn’t me. Must have been an editor.

by David M. Getz on Sep 29, 2009 12:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

The core players players are a year older, the free agent additions trump the free agent losses and Bryan Pothier and Chris Clark are finally fully healthy. Last season’s loss in game seven, while painful, was a necessary step in their maturation. This year’s team is better in virtually every aspect; maturity, skill, overall depth and coaching. Boston has taken a step back offensively and won’t sneak up on anyone, Pittsburgh will feel the natural after-effects of winning the Cup and two successive runs to the Finals and Philly is built for the playoffs not the regular season. My prediction: the Caps win the East.

by b.orr4 on Sep 29, 2009 9:10 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

With a proper goalie, Philly is a force to be reckoned with.

Will Emery be that guy? I doubt it, but we’ll see what the trade deadline holds.

I know one thing: I was better pleased when Chris Pronger was doling out concussions and cheap shots in the Western Conference.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 9:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

The goalie situation is very much up in the air. More importantly, they play in what easily could be considered one of the toughest, if not the toughest division in hockey even if it does include the Islanders. So division points are going to a lot harder to come by. The SE may be improved, but it doesn’t compare to the Atlantic. Agreed, though, on Pronger.

by b.orr4 on Sep 29, 2009 9:31 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good analysis re. Philly. Fwiw, I voted for 1st overall, and I’ve thought that for a while, now.

I’d like to see a couple of key upgrades at the trade deadline, in preparation for the playoffs – at this point I’d like to see them get a veteran defender, and perhaps a forechecking winger. In particular, I’m thinking I will want something to alleviate them being bottled up in their own end for such protracted stretches as they were against Pitt. We’ll see how injuries and performance shake out prior to the deadline, though, before I start to commit to those thoughts.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 9:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah. I don’t really want to commit to wanting anything at the trade deadline right now until we see how things shake out.

FWIW, I think they can and should be first overall, but I wonder if maybe not having home ice will change things any?

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 9:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Atlantic is good but by no means an offensive dynamo. You have NYI and NYR, who will both struggle to score. NJD doesn’t have a ton of scoring depth and they got that coach back. PIT obviously has firepower, but PHI is one of the few teams that can roll two shut down D pairs to play against Crosbalkin and PHI has some great defensive forwards. The Atlantic will be tough, but it plays to the strengths of PHI for the most part.

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Green won’t make the same mistake, twice, my friend.

by DrinkingPartner on Sep 29, 2009 9:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

the free agent additions trump the free agent losses and Bryan Pothier and Chris Clark are finally fully healthy.

This guy might turn out to be one of the team’s biggest additions since this time last year:

Nice hair, Brian!

Atta dinnin stick a who!

by Gould Old Days on Sep 29, 2009 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That pic kinda makes me want to watch old episodes of Taxi.

"Hey friend, an avatar makes you more personable, friendly. Have I mentioned we serve cigars and flavored vodka?"

by Bald Pollack on Sep 29, 2009 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

Jim Ignetowski [soto voce]: “What does a yellow light mean?”

Cabbies: [whispering]: “Slow down”

JI: “What. Does. A. Yellow. Light. Mean?”

Cabbies: “Slow down!”

JI: “What…does….a…yellow….light…mean?”

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think as much as the players say they didn’t care or watch the finals last season – they did. And more importantly, it hurt. Alex is going to come out this season looking for blood, and I think he will prevent the team from falling into a slump like the end of last season. And hopefully this ‘team toughness’ i keep hearing about will keep the energy level up and the players heads in the games. As stated earlier, the regular season doesnt mean dick, but the end of the regular season, i think, does a little bit. my bet is – this is the year.

by aaw6848 on Sep 29, 2009 9:14 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Season Keys

1) Win the Points title in the Eastern Conference: This not only guarantees home ice in the first 3 rounds, but also makes it likely that the Caps will only have to eliminate one of Boston or Pittsburgh on the way to the Stanley Cup Finals, as they’ll likely be the 2 and 3 seeds. Sure, the Flyers and ’Canes will be battling for the 4th Seed and likely be a second round opponent, but I only want to see Sid and Geno after Chara and Lucic have taken a few bites out of them….

2) Staying out of the Penalty Box: DMG is so right about this. How many times last year we we yelling at Semin, Poti, Feds and (the worst offender) Jurcina for taking a lazy penalty. It has to stop.

3) Go to the net: This problem was addressed by adding Knuble and subtracting Kozlov. Kozzie’s a good guy and a good player, but Knuble is better.

I’m thinking the Caps can come up with a record like 52-25-5 for 109 points. That will win the Southeast, will be the top record in the East (and perhaps the league.) As for playoffs… in round 1 they’ll get a team with limited capabilities but a quality goaltender (i.e Rangers, Devils or Sabres), and overwhelm them. In round 2, unless another of those teams listed there pulls off an upset of Pittsburgh or Boston, the Caps will have to deal with the winner of a Flyers-Hurricanes knock-down/drag-out series (I’d pick the ’Canes… when in doubt, go with the better goaltender.) and probably beat them good. The third round would be the winner of a Boston-Pittsburgh series, hopefully Boston, but likely Pittsburgh.

And then…it’s anyone’s guess.

Oh, and in the Finals, the opponent will be Chicago or Vancouver…

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 9:42 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Agree with you (and DMG) on the penalties. My impression after the preseason games is that it’s still, um, a “work in progress”.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 9:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

We all know that Chicago is destined to go to the Finals and lose.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 9:49 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs

marian hossa went there to win a championship.

by oates_meal on Sep 29, 2009 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

As I said :)

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Zing!

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 11:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

but I only want to see Sid and Geno after Chara and Lucic have taken a few bites out of them….

Last year the Penguins were coming off of playing (IMO) the most physical, chippy series of their playoffs when they played Philadelphia. Easily the most fights, post-whistle scrums, checks, slashes, finished checks Pittsburgh dealt with was the Flyers.

Chara’s a monster but if you see the Pens immediately following a long series with Philly (like the Caps did last year) that’s the most knicked and bruised Pittsburgh’s going to be.

Pensburgh.com -- it's like the Max Talbot of blogs*

*not just because we only work for 12 minutes a night

by Hooks Orpik on Sep 29, 2009 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

We’re not denying that, only reinforcing it; we’d rather see them weakened than anything else. And the Flyers aren’t/weren’t the Bruins.

by DrinkingPartner on Sep 29, 2009 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed...

…I’d much rather see Geno and Sid after they’ve gone 7 games with Chara and co. The Flyers are tough on a sporadic basis, and their tough guys spend significant time in the box. Chara is tough the entire game to the tune of nearly 30 minutes a night…

Most of the Flyers tough guys might get 10-12 minutes a night because they pick up 7-12 PIMs on the way…

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 11:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’d rather not see Sid and Geno at all. Given the choice between the Penguins and Bruins, I take Boston.

by gfcaps fan on Sep 29, 2009 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Me too...

…but I suspect the Pens beat the B’s in a series 3 out of 5 times…

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sadly I’d say 4 out of 5. Bruins lack something I can’t quite wrap my arms around. They remind me of the Sharks. On paper it looks good, but something is missing. When the chips are down I don’t trust them.

by CP2Devil on Sep 29, 2009 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Carolina was completely outmatched on paper. I know the Isles played the Bs to the brim twice last year. The Caps on paper shouldn’t have gone 3-0-1 against the Bs. Yes, they lack something. I think it’s that truly game-changing overwhelming aspect. Carolina has it in goaltending, Detroit in defense, offense, sometimes goaltending, Pittsburgh in offense and goaltending, the Caps in offense. Bs are deep all around, but they don’t have that overwhelming offensive star, those three Dpairs and forward lines that are lights-out defensively, nor the goalie that just goes crazy, raising his game in the playoffs.

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 3:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Mike Richards and Scott Hartnell are tough and not-infrequently dirty. They get plenty of ice. Coburn gets a ton of ice. Aside from Lucic and Chara is there really anyone on BOS that scares you?

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 5:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

True that, but the B’s punish opponents legally, whereas the Flyers, well…their reputation is well-deserved. While there won’t be lots of fights/chippiness in a Pens/Bruins series, playing seven games against Chara has an impact on a team. Exhibit A are the Hurricanes, who beat the Devils in 7, then went through the Chara meat grinder for 7 games as well. They sure didn’t look anything like a playoff team when they ran into your guys…

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Exhibit A are the Hurricanes, who beat the Devils in 7, then went through the Chara meat grinder for 7 games as well They sure didn’t look anything like a playoff team when they ran into your guys…

I like to think that had a little something to do with Evgeni Malkin and the Pens too.

I don’t doubt Boston would be a tough opponent for anyone. I’m just saying that if you want to see the Penguins weakened or knicked up; you want to see them after a long series with Philly. The physical, mental and emotional toll of playing their in-state rivals is the toughest all-around challenge in the East for Pittsburgh, aside from maybe the Caps.

Pensburgh.com -- it's like the Max Talbot of blogs*

*not just because we only work for 12 minutes a night

by Hooks Orpik on Sep 29, 2009 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Philly isn’t going to get any friendlier this year, that’s for sure. The difference I see between Philly and Washington is that Washington will run teams all over the ice; Philly will just pound them into it.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 11:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Philly’s pounding is limited as the players who do most of it aren’t really the ice time leaders on the team. Boston’s #1 pounder will lead the Bruins (if not the NHL) in TOI/game.

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pronger?

You don’t think Pronger will be skating around 25:00 a night?

by D'ohboy on Sep 29, 2009 1:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

If he’s healthy, he likely will, but Chara is a tougher, bigger, and frankly right now, a better player.

Plus Pronger will get many more PIMs than Chara, and you know that it’s likely Pronger is going to get suspended at some point during the season…

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 1:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pronger will get suspended for doling out some punishment. Pronger is a better skater and a smarter player than Chara. Pronger is better with the puck than Chara. Pronger is meaner than Chara. And notwithstanding Chara’s lifetime achievement award Pronger is the D I would take this season if given the option.

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 5:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pronger at 25:00 a night and Coburn should be over 20:00. That’s a lot of hitting from the blue line, and even more to deal with when you consider Mike Richards led them in ice time among forwards last season.

by David M. Getz on Sep 29, 2009 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ok, how about playing them after 7 games of Chara THEN 7 games of Philly and Pronger’s elbows? That works for me.

by grapejoos on Sep 29, 2009 12:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

No doubt Geno and Sid certainly did a lot to make sure the Hurricanes ended up in the trash heap. That said, their 7 games with Chara and Lucic probably took more out of them than 7 games with the Caps took out of the Pens.

Additional point… a series between the Caps and Philly or the Pens and Philly will not be a long series. The Caps and Pens probably win that in 5 games, 6 max.

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 1:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think you’re underestimating Philly’s goaltending. It’s still unknown, so I say give it the benefit of the doubt before dissing it.

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 2:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not sold on it...

Sure Emery can carry a team, but he can also destroy one. I certainly like the Caps goaltending more than Philly’s. Honestly, of the teams I think will make the postseason in the East, Philly probably has the worst situation with too many questions. Even a couple of also-rans have better situations in net (Florida with Vokoun and Atlanta with Lehtonen).

We’ll see what happens, but I think Philly didn’t put enough $$ into their net minding. While it may be ok for the regular season, I don’t think it will carry them deep in the playoffs. In addition, if they finish 4th in the East, they’ll have Cam Ward, Henrik Lundqvist, Marty Brodeur, or maybe even Ryan Miller waiting for them, and I’ll take any of those guys over Emery.

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Goaltending is still a problem for them. Emery & Boucher are both streaky and average at best in long run. I don’t really see those two as improvements over Biron & Nitty. Not that they are worse. Just more of the same.

Pronger is a huge addition to that blueline. Also, the one player people aren’t talking about enough is Van Riemsdyk. I thought the kid would be in minors again this year given how stacked that roster is and he still made his way on. If he is half as good as I think he can be that adds another goal scorer to their mix. Caps fans are going to come to respect the kid while hating hate him for being a Flyer.

Flyers may again be undone by their goaltending but they will not be an easy out.

by CP2Devil on Sep 29, 2009 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

JVR sucks. I’ll be shocked if he stays and produces at the NHL all year. He’ll probably be good enough to suck it up for Team USA in the Olympics some day but I don’t think his skating is NHL ready yet. Keeping him in PHI when he’s getting minimal minutes is a waste so I think he spends most of the year in the AHL.

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 5:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m with Hooks. PHI has way more toughness throughout the lineup than BOS; and PHI isn’t shy about (ab)using it.

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 5:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think you assume way too much that this season’s standings will mirror last season’s. Let’s face it, at least one team that was on top last year will underachieve (not the Caps, of course), and at least one team that missed out will take everyone by surprise. That’s just the way it works.

Last year, “everyone” thought that Montreal would win the NE and the Bruins would play (at least) second fiddle. I also don’t think that many people really thought the Canes were going to be as good as they ultimately turned out to be.

by PaintDrinkingPete on Sep 29, 2009 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree, hence my reference to Buffalo as a playoff team above. The Sabres, with a healthy Miller make the playoffs, and Montreal misses… which is what I think will happen this year. I don’t think the Sabres have enough to pass Boston, though.

And I have a different division winner from last year… the Pens weren’t a division winner, the Devils were. I doubt they win the Atlantic this year, but I also think they’re going to be a playoff team. Lots of folks have bet against Marty Brodeur, and most of them end up losing.

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m not betting against the trap-happy Devils. No way. I fear that they’ll trap themselves right to another Cup. (sigh)

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Devils aren’t as trap-happy as they used to be, although their ~~old~~ new coach is going to do more trapping. They should get to the post season, but I don’t think they have enough to move past round 1 unless Marty plays like it’s 2003…

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 1:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

They may go back to playing the way they did in the late ‘90s early ’00s, but it won’t be nearly as effective come playoff time without the Scotts and with an aging Brodeur.

Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst

by Killer_Carlson on Sep 29, 2009 2:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

And BOS lost a lot and people are pretending like that never happened.

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 5:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

that first paragraph is a doozy. Damn near everything that could have gone wrong did go wrong (including Alex’s little adventures in standing in front of the net at practice). And they were still an elite team. It just remind you how freakishly talented the 08-09 squad was, how fantastic the guys in Hershey were, and how much better they can be this season.

Even with the question marks, there’s no reason to think that this team isn’t legitimate Stanley Cup materials.

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 10:17 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Damn near everything that could have gone wrong did go wrong

Of course, if that one garage door had been a little lower, or the golf cart a little slower…

Atta dinnin stick a who!

by Gould Old Days on Sep 29, 2009 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

:shakes head:

by DrinkingPartner on Sep 29, 2009 10:25 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

AGH don’t even talk about that :( The result makes me shudder to contemplate.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can’t honestly say that I wouldn’t have been in the golf cart, too, though. I’d have called shotgun before Green got it!

by DrinkingPartner on Sep 29, 2009 10:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can’t either, but then his health insurance is better than mine :)

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 10:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

This team is a legitimate Stanley Cup challenger. It is no worse – on paper – that any of the other 18 teams who have competed in the Cup finals over the last decade. All of them had their weaknesses, and this Caps team does too, but this team will surprise no one if it wins the Cup.

That means it will all come down to two people. Bruce and GMGM. The tools are there. The team is capable of winning the number of games necessary against the quality of opponent they would encounter on the way to the Cup. So can Bruce be the master strategist? Can he motivate his charges to step it up to the level of their talent when they need to? Can GMGM fill in the inevitable gaps with the right pieces when injuries and slumps take their toll?

This year, it’s up to them.

by katzistan on Sep 29, 2009 10:19 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I have to add a third in there – Bob Woods. If you look, Woods and Boudreau have won championships together everywhere they’ve coached together. Let’s see what happens.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Enforcer

I feel like most of the guys on the team are willing to go out there and throw their bodies around if they feel like another teammate is threatened. The fact that Brashear is no longer around to win fights doesn’t mean we’re lacking an “enforcer”. We have “fighters” in Brads and Erskine. Stats have been pointed out to me that being on the losing end of a fight is actually better for your team than being on the winning end. When Brads has donated a pint the team has gotten fired up as a whole.

This isn’t boxing and your effectiveness as a fighter in hockey isn’t measured in bout wins, losses, KOs, it’s measured by how your team responds. In this age of hockey it isn’t worth it to have a lumbering guy on the roster who’s only purpose is to go on the ice to take their lumbering guy off the ice for 5 minutes.

by snowburnt on Sep 29, 2009 10:53 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

besides how many fights was Brash in last year and how many did he win? If I remember correctly he fought in about 10 and won only half of those. Sure he may have deterred several others just by being on the bench but the whole ‘fighter role’ argument impacted less than 10% of the games. Without an enforcer on the team this year, one could make the argument that if a random cap were to get in a fight, it would almost charge the team more because it’s so unexpected/random/etc.

by bigity b on Sep 29, 2009 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

While I do agree with your sentiment about wins and losses, it is worth noting that when Brads does get tuned up in a fight, he tends to take awhile to get back into it. From last year, an ugly loss to PIT’s Bissonette on 16 Oct, next fight wasn’t for two months. Beaten pretty badly by PHI’s Gratton on 20 Dec, next fight 1.5 months later. Loss to Tootoo on 10 Mar, no more fights the rest of the year. Now, I’m not correlating those losses directly to the amount of time between fights, but if he’s coming out of bouts with busted noses and cuts, for the sake of the team, he has to let those heal. The team might respond well in those games in which he does take a beating, but we need more folks than just him.

by Cluster on Sep 29, 2009 1:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Two people have the Caps missing the playoffs?
I mean, it’s possible – though I’d really hate to see a work stoppage by the league. The NHL couldn’t afford that.

Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com

by winterion on Sep 29, 2009 10:57 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I think the proper term for that is “wishful thinking”.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

they’re clearly Pittsburgh or Carolina fans.

The Caps were the second best team in the east (and I don’t buy that its only because they play in the SE—they played well against the rest of the east, too, an all too often forgotten fact) and they had to put out on the ice a team composed of Hershey Bears, Theo, and Ovie in December. Bryan Helmer, who didn’t even have an NHL contract last October, ended up playing for the Caps!

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 11:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Or they’re the ultimate pessimists, when it comes to predicting the Caps’ fortunes.

by CapsFan75 on Sep 29, 2009 8:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wishful thinking by waddle-bird infiltrators, no doubt! /tinfoilhat
I’ve got these nifty PixelBlocks.. already built Kain and a black mage. Who next.. I’m thinking Celes?

Also, holy bagel, 56 hours until NHL hockey.

Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com

by winterion on Sep 29, 2009 11:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

56 loooooooooong hours. I’m getting twitchy already.

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Firion, pre-Dissidia? There was a time when he was badass. A time long ago…

by DrinkingPartner on Sep 29, 2009 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

But the original sprite’s a dead ringer for the Fighter. =\

Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com

by winterion on Sep 29, 2009 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Whoa, my vote for “First in SE but not first in Eastern Conference” made the poll exactly tied at 255 votes!

"My face is my mask."

by jakeshapiro on Sep 29, 2009 11:56 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Also, I love that Circles is listed under “Other”

"My face is my mask."

by jakeshapiro on Sep 29, 2009 12:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Off Topic - Lines from Practice

Ovechkin-Backstrom-Semin
Laich-Morrison-Knuble
Bourque-Steckel-Clark
Laing-Gordon-Bradley

Knoobs on the second line/Care Bears reunited…me no likey.

CBo – Stecks – Clark…me likey

Q – Gordo – Brads…me really likey!

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 12:23 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

TEB also mentioned:

Poti and Knuble wore the alternate captain ’A’s on their jerseys for the team photo.

Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com

by winterion on Sep 29, 2009 12:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Three guys wearing the “A” — I presume that means two of them are on a rotating basis in games? No way Ovechkin isn’t wearing it in a game.

by gfcaps fan on Sep 29, 2009 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Funny, I don’t see any mention of Nylander. Bruce did say Tuesday things might clear up on him….

by b.orr4 on Sep 29, 2009 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah. He was listed as an “extra” (along with Fehr). I forgot to link to the story but El Bashir notes that today was supposed to be the day when all was made clear; nonetheless, Nylander took the team photo and is at practice.

Don’t see that guy going anywhere, to tell you the truth.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

They said Tuesday or Wednesday :)

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

If they could “trade” him for Foppa, with the Caps picking up most/all of his salary, that would be epic; imagine the salary cap room, ya know?

Plus, Forsberg would look goooooood in a Caps uni…

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That depends, how much does Foppa say he wants? And will Ted be willing to do that?

I don’t know – I know what Forsberg’s legend is, but I have to question his value outside of moving Nylander. He’s got a stress fracture in his foot again – can he handle the grind of an 82-game season plus the long playoff run that the Caps are poised to (and had better) have? Given those injuries, does he bring upside over Morrison?

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Now that I see he’s over 35, would he accept a heavily bonus laden contract, assuming the bonuses fit under the cap? If he really wants to play for the Caps….

by gfcaps fan on Sep 29, 2009 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

And will Ted be willing to do that?

Yes. Leonsis hasn’t come this far and spent this much money to lose out because he wouldn’t pay Forsberg anything that reasonable.

He’s got a stress fracture in his foot again – can he handle the grind of an 82-game season plus the long playoff run that the Caps are poised to (and had better) have? Given those injuries, does he bring upside over Morrison?

Does he need to play 82 games or be better than Morrison to be a good option?

by David M. Getz on Sep 29, 2009 3:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

in the interview he also said he can skate fine it just hurts to walk…

by JustJeff on Sep 29, 2009 3:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

and at some point, you have to get off the ice and let the damn thing heal, even if it doesn’t hurt to walk. easily out 4-8 weeks.

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 4:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

sorry, that should be “doesn’t hurt to skate.”

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 4:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

If they can get 35 games from Foppa, that’s better than zero games from Nyls…leaving aside the possibility of 16 more after the season :)

I don’t in any way expect Peter Forsberg to play a full slate of games…but he’d be damned useful to have around for a limited engagement.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 4:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Especially in the playoffs.

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 4:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes. Leonsis hasn’t come this far and spent this much money to lose out because he wouldn’t pay Forsberg anything that reasonable.

I think she was referring to the part about Ted paying Nylander’s salary while he’s playing elsewhere.

But I still think Ted would do it.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Don’t see that guy going anywhere, to tell you the truth.

You think it’s more likely he sits through an entire season of travel and practices without getting in to an NHL game? Because I can’t see that happening.

by David M. Getz on Sep 29, 2009 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

The more I think about this, the more it rings true. All that travel without the gratification of playing in a game seems like a flat out miserable existence.

by Laich It Or Lump It on Sep 29, 2009 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You think it’s more likely he sits through an entire season of travel and practices without getting in to an NHL game? Because I can’t see that happening.

Ah, see, it’s so tempting to look at it this way…hope you are right.

huh??

by fat_daddyo on Sep 29, 2009 1:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why do I get a picture of GMGM blocking Circles’ entry into the photo shoot:

“Put that makeup down!! Photo’s for closers only.
(Nyls scoffs).

" Do you think I’m f’ing with you? I am not f’ing with you!!!

I’m here from downtown. I’m here from Lincoln and Leonsis. And I’m here on a mission of mercy. Your name’s Nylander?

-Yeah.

You call yourself a playah, you son of a bitch?

- I don’t have to listen to this shit.

You certainly don’t pal. ‘Cause the good news is — you’re fired. The bad news is you’ve got, all you got, just one week to regain your job, starting tonight. Starting with Thursday’s game . Oh, have I got your attention now? Good. ‘Cause we’re adding a little something to this contest. As you all know, first prize is 4th line with Motzko and Fata. Want to see second prize? Second prize’s a set of steak knives. Third prize is you’re in the press box.

You get the picture? You’re laughing now? You got chances. Leonsis and Lincoln paid good money. You can’t close the chances you’re given, you can’t close shit, you ARE shit, hit the bricks pal and beat it ’cause you are going out!!!

by S h a g g y on Sep 29, 2009 1:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That kind of outburst just doesn’t seem possible from a man like GMGM. I imagine it much slower, and with fewer facial expressions. Perhaps even a notepad, so that he doesn’t have to speak.

by DrinkingPartner on Sep 29, 2009 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

George...

…has always been my hero since he went into Chicago’s locker room and had it out with their coach (punches were thrown) after a preseason game. That kind of outburst is not out of character.

I’ve talked to him after games on occasion, and after one game he was livid, not because the Caps played badly (they didn’t) and not because they lost (the Caps lost because Martin Brodeur was MARTIN BRODEUR that night), but because of how the Devils play the game and how uninteresting they were (this was about 4 years ago, and they were uninteresting).

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 1:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

GMGM is the slow burn type, but good lord, if you are in his way, or the object of his anger when he explodes……..

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 1:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

At the GM panel at CapsCon, Dick Patrick and Vogs both praised GMGM for his calm steady demeanor. I leaned over to my brother and said, “At work. Then he goes home and puts his foot through the wall in the basement…”

IS PAЯTY NOW

by Your Nation's Capital on Sep 29, 2009 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Neuvirth

From Corey: @cmasisak22 Boudreau said decision on goalies will come tomorrow. To me, it would be a major, major upset if Neuvirth isn’t sent to Hershey.

"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri

by gotsparkly on Sep 29, 2009 12:53 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Nobody's worried 'bout Olympics?

I find it fascinating that we’ve gotten this many comments and nobody has mentioned that there are going to be more players from this team playing additional games in the season than nearly any other team.

I read recently (and memory confirms) that the last time we had the olympics, many of the skill teams were out of gas come playoffs, and that both 1 seeds (as well as other top seeds) fell to less star-laiden, better rested teams.

That is something that’s going to keep me up nights this season (especially while watching Ovie throw himself around in his other red uniform).

God kills a kitten every time Sydney Crosby whines.

by Chris meet Alex on Sep 29, 2009 12:58 PM EDT via mobile reply actions 1 recs

Beat me to it

Damn. That’s what I get for researching things while I post.

by D'ohboy on Sep 29, 2009 1:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

2002

It’s not as reductive as, “teams with more Olympic players don’t do as well.” In 2002, the Wings won the Cup after sending 10 players to the Olympics.

by D'ohboy on Sep 29, 2009 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

that 2002 Wings team was, well, otherworldly. They played at a whole different level from the rest of the NHL that year.

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

‘98 the Wings won the Cup as well, though I haven’t looked up how many players went to Nagano. I’m sure it was a pretty good number. 2006 is really the only year that “the teams with more Olympic players are gassed for the playoffs” remotely holds true; and I still don’t buy it. Both EDM and CAR had significant players in the Olympics that year. DET flamed out in the first round but it’s hard to say it was because of the Olympic players. Rolosuck stood on his head that series and as for the skaters DET dominated. Shots were ridiculously lopsided, iirc. I’m not that worried about the Olympics, to be honest. If anything I hope it gives the Alexes a shot at Triple Gold when they come back to the NHL; that would be nice motivation.

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 5:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Team Russia - Rested, Ready, and Refreshed

Rested:

Ready:

Refreshed:

IS PAЯTY NOW

by Your Nation's Capital on Sep 29, 2009 5:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Really, when you think about it, at max:
Ovechkin, Semin, Varlamov (Russia)
Backstrom (Sweden)
Jurcina (Slovakia)
Green (Canada)
Clark, Poti (USA)
Out of them, Ovechkin, Semin, Varlamov (taxi), Backstrom, Juice, and Green look like they’ll make it. All young. No problem, I don’t think. Tt’ll be tougher on old vets like Lidstrom, Rafalski, Pronger, etc

by red army line on Sep 29, 2009 2:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

No love for Flash?

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 5:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Add him in there. Forgot.

by red army line on Sep 30, 2009 11:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Though he’s hurt, may hurt his shot at a spot.

by red army line on Sep 30, 2009 11:11 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Olympics = Potential Derailleur

The Olympics are the wild card of this year. While I don’t believe that there’s enough of a sample size here to definitively say how the Olympic break affects the NHL season, there’s clearly some sort of impact, and the degree of that impact increases with the number of players participating from a given team. At a minimum, the Caps will have three players participating in the Olympics, and could have as many as eight (Green, Flash, Jurcina, Varly and Knuble). Admittedly, those last five are by no means “locks” to end up in Vancouver, but they’re definitely more than just non-zero probabilities.

As an erstwhile Colorado Avalanche fan, I recall the debacle of the 1997-98 season, caused in no small part by the injury that Sakic suffered in Nagano. However, the potential impact of the Olympics goes beyond injuries – the tournament adds anywhere between three to seven games to a top player’s season. On the flip side, it gives the rest of the league a nice 10-day break to rest and recuperate in the middle of the year.

by D'ohboy on Sep 29, 2009 1:01 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Jagr got hurt in 2006, and I think Lundqvists knees took a beating that season as well; but I still am not that afraid of the Olympics. How many guys play? How many guys got injured? Sure it sucks if it’s your guy that gets injured, but that risk exists every time you play and I don’t think the Olympic games add to that risk significantly.

If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.

by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 29, 2009 5:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Update: Aucoin and Giroux cleared waivers.

Anyone surprised?

by S h a g g y on Sep 29, 2009 1:06 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

ever so slightly, but also greatly relieved.

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 1:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Actually, a little, yeah. Good for HER.

by DrinkingPartner on Sep 29, 2009 1:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That’s not the surprise, from Corey:

George McPhee confirmed that Chris Bourque was put on waivers today.

"Hey friend, an avatar makes you more personable, friendly. Have I mentioned we serve cigars and flavored vodka?"

by Bald Pollack on Sep 29, 2009 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was wondering about that myself, as a matter of fact. I wonder if Boston claims him for the hell of it. You know, for shits and giggles.

by DrinkingPartner on Sep 29, 2009 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don’t think they have the cap or roster space. (btw, there’s a new post up for this)

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m more worried about his Daddy’s other team claiming him (Colorado could use a Chris Bourque as part of their massive rebuild…)

Let's go Caps!

by MikeL-Caps on Sep 29, 2009 1:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

If anyone needs me, I’ll be in the corner dying a little inside.

Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com

by winterion on Sep 29, 2009 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

((((((((hugs))))))) hold tight, this may pass without anything bad happening.

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 2:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m scared.

Winterion Game Studios
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by winterion on Sep 29, 2009 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m also thirsty.

Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com

by winterion on Sep 29, 2009 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

ok, so hugs and vodka shots should so the trick

by RedBirdie on Sep 29, 2009 2:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’ll be there — one hand with fingers crossed, the other hand holding a Sam Adams (brewed in Boston)

"Camaraderie, that's what the Washington Capitals are all about."

by CapitalCentre on Sep 29, 2009 3:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You had a few hours of joy…

Fight, you time-wasting figure skaters!

by boutros23 on Sep 29, 2009 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

not really, honestly. No one signed Giroux when he was a FA this summer and no one signed Aucoin when he was FA last summer (nonetheless, the few times we brought him up and down). The chance to me was very, very slim and if it happened it would have been a bigger loss to Hershey than Washington.

by bigity b on Sep 29, 2009 1:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Okay, the shock has settled down.

What’s the deal with releasing Chris now, instead of when the other forwards were released? Better mask his departure and hope he clears? Times it so he gets a home game against Boston before heading back to Hershey, if he does? Or, does this mean the Nylander deal that TEB thought GMGM had ready to go fell through, and he had no choice but to free up the roster spot? (so they’re carrying 13-8-2, counting everybody except Flash).

Would this also mean that Fehr is closer to ready than at first indicated, or that the team’s comfortable putting Steckel, Nylander, and Clark on some sort of.. whatever-you-would-call-it.. line – because if Fehr’s not ready to play and Chris gets ( /cry ) picked up by someone else, doesn’t that default Circles into the starting lineup?

I’m so confused right now. Arglbargl.

Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com

by winterion on Sep 29, 2009 2:37 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

i can see you guys finishing first in your division, but only 2nd in the east.
however, i also see you guys winning the ECF and facing my precious canucks in the SCFs.

http://canuckpuckbunny.blogspot.com

GO CANUCKS GO!

by missy on Sep 30, 2009 12:36 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I’d take all those scenarios in a heartbeat.

by CP2Devil on Sep 30, 2009 1:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i’m sure you would.
just don’t count on beating us in the cup final yet though.

http://canuckpuckbunny.blogspot.com

GO CANUCKS GO!

by missy on Sep 30, 2009 1:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don’t count on anything. Too many factors are always in play. However, I’d like the Caps chances in a series against the Canucks if Caps are healthy at that point.

by CP2Devil on Sep 30, 2009 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

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A high-ranking league exec confirms that DirecTV and Comcast have come to an agreement that puts Versus back on the satellite carrier.

by Bald Pollack 1 day ago 5 comments | 3 recs

Southeast Standings

	GP	W	L	OTL	PT
Washington Japers' Rink	69	46	14	9	101
Tampa Bay Raw Charge	68	28	28	12	68
Atlanta Bird Watchers Anonymous	68	28	29	11	67
Florida Litter Box Cats	67	28	29	10	66
Carolina Canes Country	68	28	32	8	64