Recap: Caps 5, Maple Leafs 4 (SO)
by Becca H on Nov 3, 2010 10:45 PM EDT
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On paper, the Washington Capitals and Toronto Maple Leafs couldn't be more different. They're built around different philosophies, with different strengths and weaknesses...and with dramatically different expectations for the season. Yet somehow when these two teams get together none of that matters, and the result has been some pretty exciting games over the years.
Tonight's was perhaps a little too exciting for most of us, as the tight defensive play and stellar goaltending that has become a trademark for the Caps broke down a little - and did so against a team that had been struggling to score lately. There was plenty of good to go with the bad, though, and when all is said and done, it still counts as a win.
Ten more notes on the game:
- Amazing that just about every goal the Caps scored tonight was a direct result of someone going to the front of the net, no? It's almost as if that's something they should do all the time. Weird.
- Hopefully everyone who caught this game got plenty of rest beforehand, because watching Alexander Semin was an exhausting experience. It was at once both a beautifully executed offensive game, with a gorgeous assist, a slick-handed game-tying goal and a bullet of a shootout winner, and a frustrating display of everything that makes Semin a pain in the rear - right down to the offensive-zone stick penalty.
- The Caps' power play from a week or two ago looks nothing like the power play we're being treated to lately. They're moving, they're being creative and they're beginning to show signs of being the powerhouse with the extra man that they once were. And with two more power play goals, they inch ever closer to that 20% mark...
- How is it that in a high-scoring, back-and-forth game like this, Alex Ovechkin doesn't have a shot on goal until the third period and finishes with only three on the night? Chalk it up to a lot of passing by the captain, a few shanked shots and some decent defensive work by the Leafs. And hey, at least he registered a shot in the shootout - and made it count.
- The Caps are known for scoring in bunches; the Leafs, not so much. Still, both teams took their turn at lighting the lamp in short succession, with the Caps jumping out to a 3-1 lead over the course of five and a half minutes in the second and the Leafs adding three of their own in just over three minutes of the third. Hope no one blinked.
- It was an interesting night for the usually steady Jeff Schultz - Mike Green pairing tonight, with really good plays interspersed with major mental gaffes by both 55 and 52. And of course it figures that, on the day he gets major press in Canada for his defensive work, Green would be on the ice for all four Toronto goals.
- On the flip side, John Carlson put together a fairly nice evening for himself, firing the shot that was tipped by Tomas Fleischmann to give the Caps a two-goal lead and finishing with a plus-two rating - and three blocked shots.
- It wasn't a horrible outing by Michal Neuvirth tonight, but it wasn't quite up to the standard we've grown accustomed to. He probably wants a do-over on the first Toronto goal, for sure, and the four goals he allowed were the most he's surrendered since opening night...man, are we spoiled.
- It's no secret that Boyd Gordon has his fair share of fans around these parts, but even those who tend to overlook his contributions would have a hard time overlooking his impressive seeing eye pass that found the front of the net (and a waiting Jason Chimera) midway through the second period.
- Nicklas Backstrom was 4-for-17 on faceoffs tonight. What's Swedish for "ouch"?
So the first shootout of the season (...woo) goes in the books as a win for the Caps, and perhaps, hopefully, they're a little humbled after this one. Give Toronto credit, they didn't give up and made this one way more interesting than it was projecting to be coming in...but the Caps need to be better than they were tonight and the result was a nail-biter right to the finish. Two points is two points, but another slow start and some shaky play throughout give these two points a slightly bittersweet taste.
Game highlights:
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Ah, Becca. Always the optimist.
I can’t quite remember the first goal to tell you the truth…was it soft?
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It was a nice play by Kulemin, a bad job by Erskine not tying him up and barely missing the break up with a dive, and Neuvirth biting kind of early on a fake shot.
I’d say 60% Kulemein, 30% Erskine, 10% Neuvirth.
by Charlie Foxtrot on Nov 3, 2010 10:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Ooooh, yeah, I recall. Neuvy got way out of position. Kulemin still probably buries it as he had a ton of time in prime real estate. Someone got torched after Erskine blew it on the wall, totally whiffed on keeping Kulemin in front of them. I think it was King.
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Ha! And here I was thinking I was being awfully negative considering the Caps got the win.
And it just looked to me like he got out of position on it – he looked pissed at himself afterwards. Not to diminish what was a great play by Kulemin, of course, but it seemed like Erskine did a noble job of trying to get the puck away as he fell down and Green was taking care of his man in front of the net. It was such a tight shot that, if Neuvy’s in slightly better position, he stops it.
…he’s certainly earned the right to have an off-night, though ;) And he was great in the shootout.
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The Siberian Sniper
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Huh, thought they gave Kaberle one of those goals.
"DON'T SAY THAT! Please! That is the worst, most stupid thing anyone could say! Cause it quite clearly isn't "only a game." I mean if it was do you honestly think I'd care this much?"
by Bald Pollack on Nov 4, 2010 12:02 AM EDT up reply actions
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
by sydtron on Nov 4, 2010 1:11 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
I just noticed that too…typo for the win.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Nov 4, 2010 1:12 AM EDT up reply actions
A hard hat to go with those stone hands
Congrats, Jason Chimera!
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
*****
It’s still early in the year and the Caps still haven’t hit their stride yet – and obviously this is pending the outcome of the Anaheim-TB game (go Ducks!)…but man is it nice to see this again:
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
…and of course as soon as I post that, Tampa scores to break the 1-1 tie. Geez. (Sorry, OT hockey but it was somewhat relevant.)
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Admit it. Stamkos must be on your fantasy team.
The wait for 10/7 begins. This man is focused. Are you?
Ha! Actually if he was on my fantasy team he probably would have one goal, be a -27 and suffer some season-ending injury in the next few games.
Come to think of it, I have Knuble on mine…seriously, I’m a major jinx.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Right? It’s kind of amazing how the Devils’ ongoing shitshow has covered up the fact that Buffalo is very quietly having a nightmare start to the season. And Miller’s injured now, he was out tonight.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
I knew Miller was out, but I had no clue Buffalo imploded. Quietest implosion in history?
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B-b-b-b-ut Shaone Morrisonn!
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ShoMo is the cause of the implosion? Of course! :)
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Yup. Obviously they’re talking about it in Buffalo and if you listen to XM Home Ice at all they mention it occasionally…but I really think the whole saga in New Jersey has overshadowed any and all other stories of suckitude.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
aaaaaaand TB-ANA going to OT. So TB will be back on top of the SE , even if they take the OT loss because they’ve played less games.
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Boooooooo!
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
slightly less boo!
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
Yes…can’t wait till next week. Get to go to the Bolts game too. Although since I went tonight, and now going Friday night…and my friend who lives in NYC wants me to come up Tuesday for the Rags game, I guess I’ll get my fill before then too :)
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Nov 4, 2010 1:02 AM EDT up reply actions
Did not realize Backstrom was that ugly at the dot. Yikes.
Sounds like Mike Green can kiss that Norris trophy goodbye. Duncan Keith’s people are probably mass xeroxing this game as we speak.
/semi-sarcasm’d
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Keith was a -4 tonight, so his camp is probably just as happy to forget tonight.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 3, 2010 11:19 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
A thoroughly entertaining game, though at times for all the wrong reasons, and a good show for all the fine folks watching on TSN. I felt calmer going into the shootout than I ever did last season, and Neuvy and Ovie and Sasha didn’t let me down. Beauty waterbottle hit by Semin to end the game.
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sure hope my dad had fun at the game, because I had 3 or 4 freaking heart attacks at home tonight.
Bruce said Semin’s sick in his post-game and it was up in the air if he would play.
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I don’t think I heard Alzner’s name called more than once tonight. In 22 minutes. And that’s what we want, right?
Exactly what I was thinking. Quietly effective, that’s exactly how he needs to play.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
My brother was listening to the Toronto broadcast on NHL network and said that they were giving Schultz props as an extremely underrated defensemen at some point. Probably early, though, given some of the struggles of his pairing tonight.
The wait for 10/7 begins. This man is focused. Are you?
Yeah, he was…rough. Wouldn’t surprise me if he was sick, to be honest – there were times where he looked completely out of it, unaware of the puck or the player right next to him. Very un-Schultz-like.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Was not too happy with the PP in OT. With only 3 defenders the lines are more open and good passing hands would probably do more harm than a big butt in front of the goalie.
Cup, please.
2 posts and good puck movement and retrieval, there have been worse PP 4 on 3 in history
"Have you ever played?" "Yes, I was a goalie"
DJ King deserved 2 bullets, one for how terrible he is at hockey and the other for how much of a clown he is. And I mean clown in a bad way
"Have you ever played?" "Yes, I was a goalie"
by MikeyGreen on Nov 3, 2010 10:58 PM EDT reply actions 4 recs
He’s not that bad, c’mon!
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"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
Same Old Shit ... Let's Vent
Never thought I’d see OV tally one and Semin somehow get away with a slapshot tally all in in the same gimmick. Anyways. That sucked. Flash sucks. Facing an inferior team playing the second tilt of back to back games and surprise the Caps couldn’t put the final nail the coffin after taking a 3-1 lead. Am I surprised with the lack of cold blooded killer instinct? Sadly no. Caps were fortunate to escape with a point. This win felt pretty hallow. Leafs’ dogged determination definitely earned the point. Gus50 is a monster. Btw, Flash sucks. Any chance Leafs take Sloan, Erskine and Fahey for Komarisek? I jest…
Caps still leaving a lot to be desired in this young season. What else is new?
Good recap Becca and appreciate the optimism as always.
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by Christoph J on Nov 3, 2010 10:59 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
One of the real positives is that Neuvirth showed the stones to make some solid saves after falling behind 4-3 and outplayed his opposition during the shootout.
He could have spoiled us by preventing us from falling behind, but he played just well enough to let us get two points.
The wait for 10/7 begins. This man is focused. Are you?
No doubt Neuvirth continues to keep the Caps’ in the game, especially during moments they have no business in getting a shot at grabbing the two points. Definitely a positive, for sure.
It still doesn’t quell my concerns with the team overall.
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by Christoph J on Nov 3, 2010 11:13 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
We have some great players who make mistakes and take dumb penalties. Sadly, that kind of goes with the territory to a certain extend and I’m pretty much done with expecting those with wandering sticks to stop having wandering sticks. At least their penalty kill has improved enough to not make the penalties fatal every night.
Frustrations: King on the ice for goals against.
Goal due to aggression (breakaway goal) and bad penalty (following Fehr penalty).
Not enough structure following the failed power play to start the third period.
Positives:
Power play showing punch.
Scoring further down the lines and from the back end (Chimmer scoring, two “goals” by defensemen)
Gutting out a vic by Neuvirth.
I still see enough positives to not walk away from this one bummed out. I’ll just have lowered expectation against the B’s.
More than anything, I’m interested to see how the coaching staff responds to this one with the performance and coherence against the B’s.
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If we’re going to through King under the bus for the goals against, let’s remember that Bradley’s giveaway led to (I believe) that first goal. The 4th line has had better games.
"DON'T SAY THAT! Please! That is the worst, most stupid thing anyone could say! Cause it quite clearly isn't "only a game." I mean if it was do you honestly think I'd care this much?"
by Bald Pollack on Nov 3, 2010 11:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Brads was definitely partly to blame for that, I’d agree – made the hit but forgot about the puck and then was unable to get it out when he had a chance.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
They also had a shift in the second where they couldn’t get the puck out of their zone on a couple different occasions.
"DON'T SAY THAT! Please! That is the worst, most stupid thing anyone could say! Cause it quite clearly isn't "only a game." I mean if it was do you honestly think I'd care this much?"
by Bald Pollack on Nov 3, 2010 11:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Brads wasn’t super strong, and outside of the penalty kill and Steck’s face offs, I wasn’t impressed with the entire fourth line.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
It sounds weird to say considering he’s only been here a month, but I really missed Hendricks out there tonight. It’s probably because he’s so similar to Bradley in what he brings to the lineup on a good night, and Brads certainly wasn’t bringing it tonight – the void is palpable.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Great point. Got to give props to GMGM for bringing in Hendricks. Gritty but not utterly without skill.
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Yeah, I don’t think he was sitting just because King was in – although the fact that Toronto was dressing Orr meant King almost had to go in.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Not the point – I’d rather a 4th of Bradley Hendricks and Steckel or something I dunno.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
Wasn’t impressed with King tonight and I’d prefer that 4th line, as well – but I’m saying that I think Hendricks was injured and that’s why he didn’t play.
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I want Delly back.
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"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
Ima reading lots of recaps right now and apparently Coach was ready to scratch Semin on account of illness. Coach also notes that Neuvirth has now played in 11 of 12 games and that just might be a lot of games in a row for a rook.
Other recaps say Schultzy didn’t look all too healthy either.
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wouldn’t surprise me. Everyone in greater DC seems to be suffering from this head cold/sinus infection to one degree or another.
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Gotta start somebody else, Holtby debut ftw!
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"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
And now I’m remembering that the Wild had a horrible flu running through their dressing room to the point where guys were seeing the team docs AFTER PRACTICE about dehydration and not being able to keep food down.
Where did our team play just about one flu incubation period ago?
Yep. Minny.
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I still see enough positives to not walk away from this one bummed out. I’ll just have lowered expectation against the B’s.
There are always positives, for sure, but I can’t say I saw enough to walk away without feeling bummed out. I’ll caveat that with the fact that’s just my initial gut feeling and emotions given the Caps’ history over the past 2-3 seasons. Lots of fundamental issues are still there. Lowered expectations are always a baseline for me, again a defense mechanism.
Emotion and passion aside, I’ll say this:
PP is starting to look better; specifically the puck movement
Carlson and Alzner had one of their better games all around, especially Carlson
Neuvirth continues to be a rock (aside from the first goal)
Secondary scoring was a welcome sight
Caps have Green’s offensive contributions they’ve sorely missed when he was out
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I wouldn’t say we had no business getting the points tonight…I don’t think anyone can claim Toronto outplayed us on the whole tonight. Probably way more even than it should have been but without “The Monster” making some of the saves he did (even though at least 2 of them while great saves should have been finished) and us in general missing those scoring chances when we could have extended it from 3-1 to 4-1 and finish it off it gave that whole 3rd a chance to happen. Obviously it doesn’t feel like a great win when we blow a lead like that, but they still have to go try and get the points too. I’m sure they know what’s coming after giving up that lead.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Nov 4, 2010 12:17 AM EDT up reply actions
I wouldn’t say we had no business getting the points tonight…I don’t think anyone can claim Toronto outplayed us on the whole tonight.
Just to clarify, I wasn’t saying the Caps had no business getting points tonight. That said, I still think they were fortunate to get the two they did get. I give credit to the Caps for not completely rolling over dead after the Leafs roared back to take a 4-3 lead as the game’s final period came closer to an end.
I don’t claim Toronto outplayed us on the whole either. It was disconcerting though, that they did outplay us with enough tenacity and execution to finish the chances they got for a good stretch while on their way seizing the momentum. Let’s not forget Toronto played the second of two tilts with a little rest. The penalty on Lebda which put the Caps on the PP that lead to the tying tally was iffy.
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surprise the Caps couldn’t put the final nail the coffin after taking a 3-1 lead. Am I surprised with the lack of cold blooded killer instinct? Sadly no.
You know…of all the things that have bugged me about the Caps so far this year, I have to say that the lack of killer instinct hasn’t been one of them. Tonight’s got away from them but in every other game this year they’ve been very good at protecting the lead, even when the score was insanely lopsided like their matching 7-2 wins.
It’s going to happen occasionally, the Leafs aren’t as bad as they used to be (unfortunately) and even when they were bad they seemed to be able to do this to the Caps. Sometimes the other team just wants it as much as you do.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
And they were playing for their injured Captain tonight too.
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It’s funny, I was thinking about that on my way home from work tonight – that I hate playing teams who just lost a major part of their lineup because there are basically two ways the game is going to go. Either the opponent really just can’t overcome the loss, even through one game, and it’s a crazy lopsided tilt in the Caps favor…or the opponent takes it as a challenge and a rallying cry and figures out a way to win.
It wasn’t quite the latter but the Leafs did seem to have some jump, so…yeah.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
And the Caps were playing for? … Oh that’s right, the President’s trophy.
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Now you’re just being silly.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
In all seriousness, if the Leafs had an incentive in the form of playing for their injured Captain lat night, what exactly were the Caps’ playing for? Just the two points? No problem with that, but I hope that’s not all they play for every game.
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it reminds me of how well the Caps played last season when Ovi was out for injury and then suspensions. When a team’s captain or lead player is hurt, the team can either collapse or rally. The Leafs rallied. It’s just extra motivation beyond the usual desire for a win by every team.
Alright, confess-how many goals are you going to make this year?
"I'm not going to tell!"
Well can you at least guarantee fifty?
"No way. I have a different objective. To win."
by capsyoungguns on Nov 4, 2010 9:52 AM EDT up reply actions
You know…of all the things that have bugged me about the Caps so far this year, I have to say that the lack of killer instinct hasn’t been one of them
I concur and that’s a very fair statement. So far this year this year is the part I agree with. However, my comment about the lack of cold blooded killer instinct is based on what arguably has been an issue that’s carried over from last season (and even the season before.) It bugged me because the Leafs were playing their second game in a row — this one on the road. Up 3-1, or even 3-2, is it unreasonable to expect the Caps’ put the dagger in and then become irritated when they don’t?
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I’ll go out on a limb and suggest that part of the reason the Leafs made a comeback tonight was because Hendricks was out of the lineup and King was in. In other games this season when the Caps have had a lead, BB has been able to roll 4 lines, including two fairly effective checking/energy lines. When you dress a player that you can’t play for more than 5 shifts a game, it makes it a lot harder to do this. I think the Caps really missed Hendricks’ energy and tenacity last night.
Carlson looked more relaxed and aggressive (only occasionally to the team’s D-etriment) tonight. He stood up plays at both bluelines and seemed less yippy than the last few outings.
The guy next to me was yelling encouragement to “Fake Backstrom” throughout the second and third. It struck me as quite silly, at first.
DJ King’s here cause he’s a good fighter, right? Just checking, cause his dustup with Or wasn’t even as satisfying as Green and Kovalchuk.
There's no 'i' in "team". But there's a 'nap' in "champion".
by redlineblue on Nov 3, 2010 11:00 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Well put:
There was plenty of good to go with the bad, though, and when all is said and done, it still counts as a win.
We’re 8-4. Woohoo. I’ll take it and run to the next game, where we get a shot back at the B’s and a chance to repeat Calgary.
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I think Friday’s game will be a much better barometer of where our team is at than tonight’s game was. We’re getting a team that’s cleaned our clocks twice this season and we need to make a statement at home and put together a complete effort. It’s BB’s job to show that he can get the team to put its effort in that situation and show that we are still The Powerhouse instead of a power in the East.
The wait for 10/7 begins. This man is focused. Are you?
You have no idea what’s going to happen until they actually play the games. The Caps are capable of beating anyone if they play a complete game. Be nice if they have a better lineup with no King and Hendricks back in the lineup. Be even better if either Poti or Mackan can come back and contribute.
The wait for 10/7 begins. This man is focused. Are you?
Well, you’re right. Any one game can come down to bounces or breaks or flukes. But Boston is playing a ton better than the Caps right now.
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What I could see happening is the Caps losing a close 3-2 game due to a mental mistake here or there, which will leave a lot of us thinking “gee, it would be nice if the Caps would’ve practiced better habits in the 12 games leading up to this one.”
I’m becoming a bigger believer in the notion that there’s a culture problem in this locker room that’s going to continue to subvert their playoff hopes, and it ain’t gonna change from within.
Not Fire Bruce yet, but the idea has been implanted in my brain. Kind of like Inception, but not a dream.
Culture problem? You mean like, let’s not practice hard and party all night because we know we can win anyway?
The practices I’ve seen look tough enough. Like most people, I have No F N Idea what their party habits are, or aren’t. The Caps will let a team climb back into games. Wherever that habit comes from, it’s well-enough established that we notice when they don’t do it, instead of when they do.
There's no 'i' in "team". But there's a 'nap' in "champion".
They haven’t been doing it this year, though – as I said above, it’s something I’ve been impressed with. Every so often it’s going to happen to even the tightest defensive team. Toronto just doesn’t give up and they pulled even.
The fact that the Caps didn’t just pack it in after the first or fourth Toronto goals should say something, too.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Thankfully the Blackhawks had Patrick Kane to provide the steady hand of leadership during their Stanley Cup run. His willingness to forego the pleasures of wine and women are an example and a testimony to hockey players everywhere that it is impossible to win Stanley Cups unless you have a total and unwavering devotion to the game.
The wait for 10/7 begins. This man is focused. Are you?
by souldrummer on Nov 3, 2010 11:28 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
don’t forget, he also gave up cab rides. I’m sure he was using public transportation.
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He is a man of the people. A working man for the working-class. I imagine that he was shoveling coal in the offseason like Mickey Mantle to try to get himself prepared for the grueling task of defending the Stanley Cup without Buff the Bodyguard.
The wait for 10/7 begins. This man is focused. Are you?
Meanwhile Toews is the actual Captain and about as no-nonsense as it gets. It’s fun and all to take shots at Kane, and I see the point you’re trying to make, but when it comes to the leadership the ‘Hawks had I don’t think your point will stand.
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by Rob Parker on Nov 4, 2010 12:12 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I wonder why Hendrick didn’t play but I presume Boudreau wanted to give King another chance and also wanted to get Fehr in the lineup.
But I presume Hendrick would have played if Semin had been unable to play due to illness.
Rocking the Red since 1975
Hendricks had a impressive black eye (left eye) from a puck encounter at practice either today or yesterday. He was out on the ice for warmups but it was prolly an easy choice for coach to let him sit this game out.
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"Yeah, they gave it a run tonight, but I’m sick of moral victories and lacklustre efforts." —Comment from PPP on the Leafs.
Funny that that pretty much summed up how I’m feeling about the Caps’ after tonight.
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by Christoph J on Nov 3, 2010 11:10 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I mean, I had a fucking ball at the game. I’ve made it to two this season (and the first times I’ve gone on my own dollar) and it’s been a blast. I stand the entire game in the back row, yelling my lungs out.
On a side note, should we have dropped a 3-1 lead? No.
Should we have beaten the Toronto Maple Leafs? Yes. Did we? Yes.
There’s a lot of issues, but for tonight, I’m happy.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Nov 3, 2010 11:36 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Calle Johansson and Peter Bondra get to go home happy, too. Kind of cool seeing them up in the owner’s box.
They give out wings for shootout goals? No wonder people toss their hats onto the ice for a two-goals-plus-a-shootout-goal “hat trick.”
I was surprised to see “FREE WINGS” on the board between the goal and the three stars.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
dude, wings. any excuse for free wings.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
by RedBirdie on Nov 3, 2010 11:42 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Do not complain about free wings!
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
If it says 5-4 in your morning paper it says “FREE WINGS”!
The wait for 10/7 begins. This man is focused. Are you?
that would be money if the front page of the Post said “FREE WINGS!”
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Didn’t the Caps put up five goals against the Red Wings back in 08-09? The headline coulda been “Win over wings wins fans wings.”
Bob Loblaw Launches Law Blog?
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
by D'ohboy on Nov 4, 2010 11:31 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Bondra’s was busy pecking away at his blackberry when CSN showed him!
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I’d like to nominate this post for the “Keeping it all in perspective as a fan” award. Sometimes, you’ve just got to say “screw the analysis, LET’S GO CAPS!”
glad you had fun! did you rock the scarf?
I’ll blame the shoot-out on my dad. He went tonight. In 8 games since the start of last season, SIX have gone to the SO. The man is one hell of a curse.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I Euro-styled the scarf. Wore it for most of the games, but held it up during “Loud” sections. Also got a rally towel and a puck from the girls who roam the concourse. Kind of sweet getting free things as I walk out of the bathroom for no reason.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
Coulda asked for more scarfs!
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
I hope my dad remembered my request to get a scarf….probably not.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I wish I had a bag so I coulda gotten 10, I only got 2 extras.
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
We eventually were just giving them away in like, 3s.
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
I only have 2 extra, one for the momster and one for… uhhh, no particular reason really.
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
thanks because you’re busy chatting with your internet hockey girlfriends :)
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
And I didn’t have a fucking ball, but that’s probably because I wasn’t at the game or haven’t been to one this season thus far. Plus I had no adult beverages on hand.
Should we have beaten the Toronto Maple Leafs? Yes. Did we? Yes.
There’s a lot of issues, but for tonight, I’m happy.
The Caps beat the Leafs. Yes. The Caps beat a team that doesn’t exactly play in a manner that gives them trouble in the manner that certain other teams do. Yes. Did they beat them in the manner one would expect for all the talk about improving, and learning lessons, etc? No.
There’s a lot of issues, but for this morning, I’m not happy.
Previously incarnated as UF and UnleashFurry...
Lost member of the now defunct 'Black Avatar Alliance'
Just saw the Sid Fight. Got to say that kind of fight ought to slow down some of the Crysby stuff. Star players dropping the mitts ain’t a great habit, but he more than held his own.
The wait for 10/7 begins. This man is focused. Are you?
He’s still a whiner who acts like a little kid when things don’t go his way. I still have fond memories of him repeatedly crosschecking Zetterberg in the back during the final seconds and Howard facewash him afterward.
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
Truthfully we could say this about so many players in the league though…the only reason some of us and many other teams’ fans make a big deal out of it in his case is cause he’s a superstar. You know…the same kind of bias and media blitz that Ovie gets for even borderline stuff.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Nov 4, 2010 1:17 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
It’s because he’s a superstar that makes it so bad. Ovie gets away with things too, but, he now has the reputation. Crosby is still the golden child, even though he has some antics I bet Avery would find unsavory.
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
In some respects he’s a “golden child”…but he’s dealt with the whiner and diver stuff since he entered the league. It was pretty bad the first year or two, but there’s no denying he’s matured out of the majority of that stuff. I’m just saying when he has an isolated incident nowadays EVERYONE notices because his name is Crosby. We all gripe about it when Ovie has that type of thing happen to him because of who he is, fair or not…and if you really want to be objective it must be noted that on some level Sid deals with it as well.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Nov 4, 2010 1:23 AM EDT up reply actions
He’s got such great balance and core strength that he just kept yanking Niskanen off balance. Once Niskanen started flailing he got a couple shots in. That’s pretty much Crosby’s MO in fights that the other player is expecting.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 4, 2010 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
This is the first remotely big lead we’ve blown all season. I wouldn’t worry unless it becomes a pattern again.
Carlznerson was awesome.
This was probably Neuvy’s worst game of the season. His rebound control was mediocre at best.
I’ve been waiting for the inevitable “bad game” and I hope this was it. Every player has a bad night once in a while.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Goalies are funny people and probably into routine. The accolades and attention for the rookie of the month thing might have upset the fortunate karma part of his performance.
He was real solid during the shootout, though. I’ll be interested to see how he performs in shootouts over the long haul. Wonder if there’s a “book” on him yet and maybe the lack of a book helps him to win with just being his fundamental self.
Seeing Neuvy’s effectiveness without some of the eyepopping reflexes of Varly’s better games has helped me learn to appreciate his steadiness.
The wait for 10/7 begins. This man is focused. Are you?
Man, how good was Neuvirth in the shootout tonight?
I wasn’t terribly happy with the rest of his game – I thought his rebound control left a lot to be desired in some situations – but he did a pretty stellar job against a couple of strong shootout performers. Cheers to that.
He wasn’t as good as Gustafsson’s stick on that two on one.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
Until I saw the TSN replay that’s up on NHL.com I really thought Nicky shanked that one wide, I was convinced the “save of the game” was more of a “didn’t go in of the game” than anything else. Now that I’ve seen it…hell of a save. It still might have been going wide but I feel a bit better knowing it was a save and not just Nicky choking on the open net. Like he did in the shootout.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Also, shoutout to all of the Leafs fans who I talked to at the game. Each one was knowledgeable times ten about our team, and more than excited to talk about it, while at the same time I got this vibe of “It’s awesome to see my team play, I don’t get this often” from them. Also they were all friendly.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
A lot of the leafs fans I talked to are part time caps fans.
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
I got that too – but I also had a conversation with a guy from Kitchener who was attending his first ever Leafs game. He wore a suit and a poppy. It was one of the best hockey conversations I have ever had.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
Poppies rule.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
anyone know where to get a poppy around here? I want to rock one Remembrance Day-style.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I don’t track my best hockey conversation.
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
Yes, Boyd’s pass was nice. But that whole sequence may be my favorite of the year. Our D was in TROUBLE on that shift. Green and Schultz could not get the puck out of the zone. The team cleared short and got new FWDs on but Green and Schultz were stuck. We’ve heard this story before. I told my wife as soon as I saw the short clear “It’s gonna end up in the back of our net..” Except, a certain Mr. Bradley took it upon himself to hunt down the puck and get it deep into the leafs zone. Not only did he make sure our D got the change, he set up Boyd for his nice pass to Chimmy. Quite a beautiful sequence.
So…what a game. Not in a totally good way. Probably not even in a half good way. First things first, Alex Semin. Never have I seen (wait that’s not true, it’s all the time with him) a player combine such tremendous play with such lack of focus and poor moments. It felt like he was losing every other puck between the blue lines and just always looking two steps ahead when trying to bring the puck under control. That being said, his pass on the Green goal was sublime, watching him and Nicky practice those side to side saucer passes pregame I know how he does it so well. It’s why I always want him there on the PP. We all know he has sick hands too, and they were on display to tie it up in the 3rd. In the shootout…hell, go do it if it works. As the goalie if it doesn’t hit you it’s in if it’s on net.
Carlson had a strong game as Becca outlined in her recap, felt like him and Alzner were having the smoothest time digging pucks out of our end and moving it forward.
Backstrom was a little off tonight, just not making any shots. It was a great save on him at the end of the 2nd but it still should get buried…Ovie put it on a platter for him. Speaking of Ovie…he got robbed on the PP in OT (on which we had literally 4 or 5 chances that probably end the game any other time), but man he should have buried that chance to start the 3rd on that PP. He had Monster down, but shot it into the glove. If he gets that up where it needs to be it’s in.
It’s late, and I want to catch up on the thread, last point I wanted to make, and I don’t know if it was because lines got messed up with the special teams play at times during the game but when Gordo, Chimmer, and Brads were out there together they were playing fantastic together, especially on the 2nd goal. Awesome to see that you can indeed pass it to Stone Hands…
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
Emily, how is it possible that you have not posted a screencap of the NHL’s goaltending stats leaders tonight? neuvy’s beautiful face is gracing it!
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Ooooh, I didn’t seeeee it yet! Off to go see!
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Beauty
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
God, I hate Tim Thomas.
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
eye of the beholder.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
oh, Em, please don’t tell me we need to hold an intervention! I’m sure sure Becca’s around to sanction another “Night of 1,000 Puck Bunny Posts”!
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
er, no. But if I was a Bruins fan, I might could find him… compelling.
Theo kinda spoiled me for goalies, y’know.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
He’s certainly no Patrick Sharp!
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
I hope we light his ass up on Friday.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Nov 4, 2010 12:47 AM EDT up reply actions
On a defensive note, we need our top defensive pairing to be our top defensive pairing. Not the best night for either Schultz or Green. Too many mistakes. Not that they were all Green or Schultz’s fault, necessarily.
It seemed that the goal scored against our 4th line came when they were playing an extremely long shift.
Rocking the Red since 1975
Just like Neuvy, they were bound to have an off night like anyone else. Watching Carlson and Alzner play as well as they did was a nice balancing factor, although I’m hoping Greenie and Schultz just had an off night. Friday night will be a test for sure.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Nov 4, 2010 12:28 AM EDT up reply actions
OT, sorry.
@JohnCarlson74
just downloaded the new taylor swift album, i dont want to sound cocky but im pretty sure she wrote a song about me hehe
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
El Oh El
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
Didn’t she wear a Pens jersey on stage once??? For shame John.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Nov 4, 2010 12:47 AM EDT up reply actions
This seems to be worthy of Kangaroo Court for a rookie. Somebody make him wear some embarassing Taylor Swift souvenirs on a roadie as a hazing or something
The wait for 10/7 begins. This man is focused. Are you?
Dude wore a britney spears shirt once. Furrealz.
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
When you’re a RAH…I think you can get away with that.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Nov 4, 2010 12:52 AM EDT up reply actions
I'm super cereal
I have a twitter.
Not another Capitals blog!
"Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat"
by Ovechwin on Nov 4, 2010 12:56 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
poor leafs fans
god, I would hate to be a leafs fan right now. I would just be pulling my hair out wondering why, even after solving a scoring drought with 3 goals in 3 minutes against an exceptional goalie, that they can’t pull out two points.
Better luck next game, dudes.
Was it just me, or was the FO performance good at the end of the game? It seemed like they were winning important draws.
Maybe it was the terrible performance the rest of it that made me not notice if it was good at the end. Felt like they won a couple of the draws in OT but weren’t getting it out of their zone.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Nov 4, 2010 1:02 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t know, getting a point on the league’s best team last year and rallying from 2 goals down (all minus your Captain)? Wasn’t a wholly bad effort from them.
"DON'T SAY THAT! Please! That is the worst, most stupid thing anyone could say! Cause it quite clearly isn't "only a game." I mean if it was do you honestly think I'd care this much?"
And hey, at least he registered a shot in the shootout
I just looked up the statistic, and amazingly enough, Ovechkin has registered a shot in every shootout in which he has participated. Man, that guy is good!
"Do not be afraid to ask for credit, for our way of refusing is very polite."
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 4, 2010 8:27 AM EDT reply actions 3 recs
His shootout Corsi is off the charts.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Florida
|
58 | 27 | 20 | 11 | 65 |
|
Winnipeg
|
62 | 29 | 26 | 7 | 65 |
|
Washington
|
59 | 29 | 25 | 5 | 63 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
59 | 27 | 26 | 6 | 60 |
|
Carolina
|
60 | 23 | 26 | 11 | 57 |
(updated 2.22.2012 at 8:56 AM EST)
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