Recap: Capitals 2, Rangers 1 (OT)
by Kareem E. on Apr 13, 2011 11:39 PM EDT
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Print[GameCenter - Game Summary - Event Summary - Faceoff Summary - Corsi/Fenwick - Shift Charts - Head-to-Head - Zone Starts]
Bruce Boudreau vs John Torterella. Michal Neuvirth vs. Henrik Lundqvist. Alex Ovechkin vs. Marc Staal. Those matchups may have headlined tonight's opening round playoff match between the Caps and Rangers, but it was the Good Sasha version of Alexander Semin who stole the show, rifling home an overtime game winner - courtesy of Jason Arnott's perfect feed - and sending the Verizon Center into a state of pandemonium. Semin had a signature evening, notching a goal, an assist and a hooking penalty and earning the most prolific "Alex Semin Hat Trick" of his career.
And just like that, it's 1-0 Caps.
Ten more notes on the game:
- The choice to go with Michael Neuvirth as the starter for opening day was the logical decision, and Neuvy didn't disppoint, allowing one goal on 25 shots. King Henrik may have made more prolific saves (and was bailed out by several goalposts and bouncing pucks) but for tonight, Neuvy was a touch better. Rematch Friday.
- Alex Ovechkin finished with 15 shot attempts, six of them on net. However, it could be argued that Caps head coach Bruce Boudreau should do a better job getting him on the ice against a weaker set of Rangers defensemen. A majority of Ovechkin's minutes unnecessarily came up against the Rags top-pair of Dan Girardi and Marc Staal. The takeaway: Boudreau fought hard for home ice advantage, he now needs to use its perks more judiciously.
- It was Staal, however, who was responsible for the overtime goal, as his weak clearing attempt was caught by a perfectly positioned Jason Arnott at the blue line. Staal was a workhorse for the Rangers, logging 33:48, but one has to believe that fatigue played a role in his failed clear.
- The Rangers came into the game known as a team that could block shots. And they did, blocking 28 on the night. But it was the Caps who out-blocked them, doing it 32 times. Unlike the past few years, this Caps team is undoubtedly willing to pay the price. Well done, fellas.
- Although Rangers fans could claim that they "won" the first period by withstanding the on-slaught and emerging 0-0, it could be argued that the Caps set the tone for the series by outshooting, outchancing and outhitting the Blueshirts early on. The only thing missing were the actual goals. They'll come.
- Jason Chimera had a rough night, going -1 and failing to clear the puck on multiple occasions, leading the Rangers to have extended time in the Caps zone. He also missed on a 2-on-1, which in turn led to a Rangers 2-on-1 opportunity the other way. (Thankfully, it was snuffed out by the wily Scott Hannan.) Although Chimera generated chances and almost finished the game off in overtime, don't be surprised if the coaching staff inserts Eric Fehr into the line-up Friday night.
- Mike Green's first game back was relatively uneventful. At least until the third period. Early on, he re-enacted his one-man breakout show and had a handful of nice plays in the defensive zone. But there was a mis-communication on the first Rangers goal, as John Erskine got beat behind the net, and both defenders ended up chasing the puck-carrier into the corner. Result? A wide-open Matt Gilroy had an easy finish to give the Blueshirts a 1-0 lead.
- Speaking of defensemen, it was interesting to see Boudreau pair Green with Erskine and Hannan with Schultz. The Green-Erskine combination did not play well together in their relatively limited minutes at 5-on-5 during the regular season, and Hannan-Schultz didn't set the world on fire in their time together either. It will be interesting to see in Games 3 and 4 which pair Torterella targets with his top line (by virtue of getting the last line change). If there is a weak link in the Caps defense, Torts will find it.
- This may become known as the "Terrible Ice" series, with tonight's usually bad Verizon Center ice in extra poor condition. It clearly benefited the Rangers, and don't be surprised if the ice for Games 3 and 4 is unusually bad, even by MSG standards.
- Kudos have to be given to the New York Rangers for withstanding the initial ten minutes in front of a raucous house, getting outplayed and outhit by a more skilled opponent, but continuing to be patient and playing their game. The Rangers are not the most talented team in the NHL, but they are machine-like in their devotion to playing team hockey, and it's why they hang around when, on paper, they shouldn't. And it's why they'll make this series interesting.
The Caps have a chance Friday night to go up 2-0 and head to Broadway with a comfortable series lead. The team is energized, they're playing confident, and the Verizon Center will be in its usual thunderous state. But let's not forget: the Rangers won't roll over. John Torterella is a very good coach, one who can break down opponent's tendencies and exploit them. And he can motivate. The Rangers will make adjustments and come out fighting on Friday. The Caps need to respond appropriately, avoid mental let-downs and continue to play the style of game that propelled them to the top of the conference the last quarter of the season. If they do, another 18,000+ can spill onto F Street Friday night with smiles on their faces. Just like tonight.
Game highlights:
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Great recap, Kareem.
Kudos for giving the Rangers kudos, you said it well. This series could easily go 7, Caps need to bear down each and every period.
The ice will show everything.
Could easily go less. The Capitals need to respect their opponent. But Lundquist was lucky on at least 3 shots that he himself was beat on and did not save (unless you want to count an inanimate post as part of the goaltender outside of pure, unadulterated luck).
Bottom-line? Capitals could have turned this into a 3-0 game early.
by Charlie Foxtrot on Apr 13, 2011 11:51 PM EDT up reply actions
If the rest of the games go like this one, the series won’t go beyond 5, 6 games max. But the Rags played poorly tonight and missed a few chances of their own. You have to think they’ll play better. I think the Caps’ big hits threw off some of their guys to start the game.
Speaking of big hits, one of the Caps (Chimmer?) had a borderline headshot in the first period, against the glass. Would like to see another replay, but wonder if the Rags might complain to the league office.
Rangers missing Callahan in a game tonight is critical. If he’s in, his play and leadership may get them a win.
by Charlie Foxtrot on Apr 13, 2011 11:58 PM EDT up reply actions
You thought the Rags played poorly?
I don’t think they can play much better, myself. And I think the Caps can improve a lot.
I’m encouraged to get out of this one with the W, truthfully.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
It might have been the ice, but pucks were popping over their sticks. In OT, good freaking game – they could not settle the puck. Most of their odd man rushes were negated by the struggling to receive passes. By contrast, we were able to corral a lot of pucks.
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by Whiter Mage on Apr 14, 2011 12:00 AM EDT up reply actions
Rangers can play better than that. C’mon, seriously? You know they can be better than that.
by Charlie Foxtrot on Apr 14, 2011 12:02 AM EDT up reply actions
I thought they executed their system just about perfectly for periods 2 and 3. Don’t think they can do it better than that. They flubbed some chances, but they generated the chances out real good execution.
I don’t think they spend as much time in the Caps zone on Friday as they did tonight.
Disagree?
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Haha…I thought the only period they executed perfectly was the first. They played their system pretty well the rest of the way, but the first was outstanding.
Gotcha. No worries.
I think the Rags are caught on the horns of a dilemma, a little bit anyway. In order to get Gabo, Wolski and maybe AA going, they need to open it up a bit, but if they do that, they’re going to get abused whenever Staal and Girardi aren’t on the ice.
Those two playe 32 and 33 minutes tonight, which I don’t think they can keep up.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Actually, 32 and 33 mins for those two isn’t too high, considering it went to almost a full OT. That’s only ~24 mins if you take off the extra period.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 14, 2011 12:23 AM EDT up reply actions
It’s a lot easier to trust the Caps’ 3rd d pairing(Erskine & Schultz?) than the Rangers’(Gilroy & Sauer)
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 14, 2011 12:29 AM EDT up reply actions
but if they do that, they’re going to get abused whenever Staal and Girardi aren’t on the ice.
In case you didn’t notice..it was Staal/Girardi on for both goals yesterday, and both were key contributors to the two goals allowed (Girardi standing around while Ovechkin poked at the puck, Staal’s turnover obviously)
It’s fun to think we’re a one pair team, but Semin had a much easier time against our top pair than against the rookies.
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by George E. Ays on Apr 14, 2011 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Semin’s line was also matched up against the rookies with Staal/Girardi going against the top line. This meant that Semin got chances against Staal/Girardi when he’d come out at the end of an AO/Baxter shift and could catch the D when they were relatively tired. He also got a bunch of his time with against Staal/Girardi in the 3rd when the SOB line was put back together to push for a goal, so Semin was getting a lot more help from his linemates when he was out there against Staal/Girardi as opposed to McDonagh/Sauer. So there is a lot more going into Semin having an “easier time” against the top pairing.
But still, Torts was definitely not afraid of putting the rookies out there against top players, and they acquitted themselves fairly well. They are going to need to keep up their solid play going forward or this could be a short series.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 14, 2011 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions
They’re a solid pair, is really the point I’m trying to get across, because it seems alot of the comments are that we’re a 1-pair team, which hasn’t really been true.
The bigger question, for me right now, is why Dubinsky-Stepan are together. Your best tough minutes forward paired with the rookie that’s been sheltered all year, it doesn’t add up.
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by George E. Ays on Apr 14, 2011 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, Ovechkin and Backstrom were dominant last night. If they keep that up Torts is going to have to give Dubinsky more help in that matchup. Only Staal and Girardi had more EV minutes against AO than Stepan, which can’t be ideal for the Rangers.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 14, 2011 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions
The Alex and Alex Show
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No. 3 Go BU
Can’t get better than Matty G scoring in the game AND the Caps winning…
Go USA, Braves, BU Terriers, Irish, Caps, Colts, Hoyas, NU Cats, Wizards, DC United, Washington Freedom
BU Hockey: National Champions 1971, 1972, 1978, 1995, 2009
Yeah you can. You can get so much better.
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by Whiter Mage on Apr 13, 2011 11:59 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Matty G scores a hat trick but the Caps win 10-4 with Drury having the fourth Rangers goal?
Go USA, Braves, BU Terriers, Irish, Caps, Colts, Hoyas, NU Cats, Wizards, DC United, Washington Freedom
BU Hockey: National Champions 1971, 1972, 1978, 1995, 2009
2-0 Caps win beats any scenario of any Rangers scoring.
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by Whiter Mage on Apr 14, 2011 12:05 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Does it count if the caps 2nd goal was an Empty Netter?
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
And an Ovechtrick!
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 14, 2011 9:32 AM EDT up reply actions
Frankly, I think it’s a travesty that Neuvirth isn’t on that list.
by Murshawursha on Apr 13, 2011 11:59 PM EDT up reply actions
He was rock-solid but didn’t have to stand on his head tonight, which is a testament to the D.
"You do that you go to the box, you know. Two minutes by yourself and you feel shame, you know. And then you get free."
Hanan=Stud. That is all.
"And then they’ll look at guys in my situation, that could play three good games in a row and have one bad shift, and they’ll say, ‘Well, that’s why he’s been in the minor leagues his whole career.'" --Matt Hendricks
I actually expected it to be Lundqvist, Neuvy and the OTGWG scorer. I was surprised neither goalie got in.
Truthfully Neuvy didn’t have that much hard work tonight. Basically slightly less than 7 shots a period…the stop on Gaborik right in front may have been his best save, and it was shot right into him for the most part. Given that Henrik lost the lead and then the game, I think he gets bumped for that. 3 goals, 3 stars.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 1:43 AM EDT up reply actions
Not necessarily saying that either goalie deserved a star, but when both goalies hold their opponents to one goal in regulation, it seems the media folks that decied the Three Stars usually give them credit. You’re absolutely right that Neuvy was the beneficiary of good team defense, while Lundqvist was just lucky that the Caps couldn’t get their shit together on several wide open chances in the first period.
No Neuvy?
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by PrincessPowerful on Apr 13, 2011 11:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Nope. Neuvy got one of these
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Glad he got one of those. Good consolation prize. My only problem with the Palm certificates is that they get awarded prematurely many times.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
I think I would have gone with Semin, Neuvy , Lundqvist. But I bet it was a situation where they turned it in at the end of regulation and said game winner , Ovi , Gilroy.
But still.. where did the lighter fluid come from?
by Ridley me this on Apr 14, 2011 12:45 AM EDT up reply actions
So it took some “Semin whispering” and a nice feed from Arnott for Sasha to be playoff force? I’ll take it.
He was a playoff force vs the Rangers two years ago. In fact, he had the most points of all Caps. (That was tonight’s Intelligent Decision of the game trivia question at the game.)
But, Arnott doing some Semin whispering didn’t hurt.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
What Semin whispering might look like
by discuit on Apr 14, 2011 12:36 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
It’s nothing bad lol… just Arnott and Semin talking during a break. A lot.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
I think it’s real impressive, Arnott learning to speak Russian and all.
....when the truth is if they knew anything about the game, they'd be in it.
--GMGM
by redlineblue on Apr 14, 2011 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Here we go…
- Neuvy was valiant in goal tonight. Was getting proper support in front of him and caught everything he had to. Laich was screening him on the one he did give up.
- Erskine looked great tonight. He really stepped up to the plate and provided alot of physicallity throughout. Only real blooper I recall was when he colided with Green and gave up a real good scoring chance.
- Loved that first nasty goal by Ovie. Also, glad that Semin & Green were able to get some points immediately. Both of these guys have been snake bit in the past. The sooner they stop thinking about last year and focus on the path ahead the better. Also, it will make the VS recap show more tolerable tomorrow morning.
- I forgot how oppresive the ice cleaning is between the 3rd and OT. Did anybody else notice how the CSN intermission show kept getting interupted by commericals? Really sucked me out of the game, but you gotta love an extra 18 minutes of 5on5 hockey. Having said that, lets win the next one in regulation..
13
Agree with the desire to win next one in regulation. With a 7:30 ish start, it was close to 11 before it was over. I made the 11;15 blue line at Metro Center — the display board said the next trains were 19 minutes away.
Don’t make fun of my obsession over ketchup dispensers ever again! ;) Ted Leonsis
I was lucky in that the Metro Orange line train was arriving as we got down to the platform at the game — and we were able to get on and I was able to snag a seat.
But agree with the desire to win in regulation. I was wondering how many OT periods I’d be able to sit through and still make Metro. (And was wondering what Metro’s contingency plan is when OT games go super duper long.)
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
Erskine didn’t look so hot on the Prust goal, and he flubbed an assignment(almost skated right into Green, too) that let up a clear shot, too.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 13, 2011 11:59 PM EDT up reply actions
The intermission show commercials were rough, but having no commercials at all during OT was pure joy. And nearly a heart attack. But I’ll take both, especially on this day.
by Danny Burrito on Apr 13, 2011 11:59 PM EDT up reply actions
He shoots, he scores
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Need
Win one game. Do it 16 15 times.
The keyboard is mightier.
by breed16 on Apr 13, 2011 11:43 PM EDT reply actions 8 recs
baby steps
Win one game. Do it43 times.
Hi. I have a message for April LaPine from America`s heartland. Um, socks go on your feet not you`re arm. If God wanted `em on your arms, he would`ve put little finger things on `em or whatever. Alright, that`s all.
by renstar on Apr 13, 2011 11:49 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
3 times is 12 times too few. But you gotta crawl before you can walk.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Apr 13, 2011 11:50 PM EDT up reply actions
Superstition for the series: on the Rangers goal I had my towel face up, on the Ovie stuff goal I had it face down. Less white more red that way
by Dimagus on Apr 13, 2011 11:45 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Verizon gave out rally towels before the game.
by redpezrocket on Apr 14, 2011 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions
You should definitely spend the rest of the playoffs checking the alignment of your towel.
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Ha!
I first read that as Towel Face, up. Like a smiley face, then a frowney face.
got it now…
jtothetweet
"Cats been getting hookups on tatts since back in '01". - former buckeye Antonio Pittman
YEeeeeeee Buddy. Semin, thank you for showing up. He played really hard all night and could’ve easily had a multigoal game.
I also need to start taking Bayer Asprin
My drug depends on where I am. At home: beer during the game and Bourbon after. At Verizon: stone cold sober – the energy there is enough of a high for me.
Sounds like
A good economic plan as well!
jtothetweet
"Cats been getting hookups on tatts since back in '01". - former buckeye Antonio Pittman
Rangers Shut-Down Pairing:
Staal – 34 minutes (-2)
Girardi – 33:48 minutes (-2)
Capitals Shut-Down Pairing:
Carlson – 26:19 (Even)
Alzner – 23:42 (Even)
Torts chose to ride his best pairing into the ground, and guess who made the critical turnover to lead to Arnott’s takeaway and pass to Semin for the GWG. The answer is Staal, and it was a really terrible turnover, one that was incredibly stupid, and only happens because he’s tired.
Boudreau chose to be more even in how he managed his key blue-liner minutes.
Just interesting to me, but IMO, that was the difference.
by Charlie Foxtrot on Apr 13, 2011 11:49 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Also got zero support from the F on his team, so he had only a couple of choices, and he tried the safest one.
Zuccarello got 7 minutes (gonna guess that’s related to the dumb penalty) so everyone else had pretty decent sum of minutes. Collective brain cramp on that last goal, is my basic point.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Hell of a brain cramp and breakdown. If Carlson or Green make that play, we’re bitching for days.
by Charlie Foxtrot on Apr 14, 2011 12:09 AM EDT up reply actions
Not sure who the Rags’ F were that were on the ice, but they gave Staal zero help. Sasha was in the slot taking away the cross ice, Brooks pressured the puck, and Arnott lurked high in the zone…and there was no one giving him a place to pass either below the net or at the center of the blue line.
His choice was to make a risky play diagonally into neutral or try to go high glass.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
What about back behind the net or laterally to his partner? I’m actually asking, because I haven’t watched replays and can’t remember where Girardi was or where the other forwards were located. As I recall, Sturm was not close to the opposite end, or at least wasn’t guaranteed to retrieve the puck.
by Charlie Foxtrot on Apr 14, 2011 12:54 AM EDT up reply actions
No one behind the net. He could have thrown it into the empty corner and created a puck battle, but then it’s a race between Sasha and (I think) Girardi, which isn’t good odds.
Girardi, again, I think, was in the slot with Semin hovering nearby.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Just watched the replay. Also a piss-poor job by Girardi.
Staal had literally zero options. All the Rags F had flown the zone so they were in zero position to provide puck support. He had Brooks providing direct pressure, and Sasha was taking away the pass across the zone.
Girardi just stood there in the slot, and did not provide Staal with an option.
Then when Arnott turned the puck over, Girarid was slow to cover Semin.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
You’re right – absolute wasteland for him.
by Charlie Foxtrot on Apr 14, 2011 1:13 AM EDT up reply actions
Looking at the replay you can see a Rags F (Drury I think?) peel away from Arnott into the neutral zone after Arnott keeps the first clearing attempt in. Terrible play looking for a homerun pass instead of giving Staal some support for an outlet pass.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 14, 2011 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions
Drury, Dubinsky (who was awful) and not sure on the 3rd, but probably Boyle.
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by George E. Ays on Apr 14, 2011 12:39 PM EDT up reply actions
The Staal haters are out in full force today, don’t worry.
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by George E. Ays on Apr 14, 2011 12:39 PM EDT up reply actions
Need 15 more ending with something like this....
by free_spoons on Apr 13, 2011 11:52 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
That scared me. No more of throwing him down, please.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Apr 13, 2011 11:53 PM EDT up reply actions
How about just hugs?
Welcome to Japers' Rink, we're "elitist" as fuck.
by PrincessPowerful on Apr 13, 2011 11:54 PM EDT up reply actions
he also kind of stood over him and then skated away. i know it was in all in love, but damn!!
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 14, 2011 12:16 AM EDT up reply actions
Not sure what you’re talking about: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqLqBDJAaMc
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Arnott is a goddamned maestro
That whole final shift he was 8 steps ahead of everyone else, anticipating every move. Incredible. That’s a wily veteran if ever there was one.
If an Energy Spent : Productivity ratio statistic were ever recorded, Arnott’s would have to be tops in the history of time.
The keyboard is mightier.
“It’s an Arnott Energy Services Sasha Pep Talk!!!”
15 wins.
by Steck It Out on Apr 14, 2011 12:18 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions 6 recs
Great recap, although I disagree on Chimera. I thought he was real active tonight, and if I’m replacing anyone in the lineup to insert 16, it’s either 10 or 26…
by Alex Reed on Apr 13, 2011 11:52 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Yeah, I disagree on Chimera too. I thought he had a good game, was hitting, making some moves. Sure, he misses the net with his shot, but if that’s your problem with him, he shouldn’t every be playing. Hendricks was awful. Invisible except for an awful giveaway in the first period.
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by Rainbow, Kitty, Beer on Apr 13, 2011 11:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Could not disagree more with your comments on Chimmer, I thought he played a fantastic game. Really don’t think any of your comments are justified. He had several big hits, chirped with numerous Rangers after every whistle, was involved in numerous post-whistle scuffles, and created a good half-dozen offensive chances. His shot missed on the 2-on-1, but not sure how that created a 2-on-1 the other way. The guy is not an offensively skilled, but made excellent use of the skills he does have including creating some great chances.
There seems to be a real anti-Chimera bias in the recaps, which frequently go out of the way to point out what a rough game Chimera had. Tonight was really the wrong night to pick on him. I really think the comments on him in the recap are dead wrong.
Chims did what he’s here to do. If he could score consistently, he would make too much for us to be able to afford him.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Apr 14, 2011 12:06 AM EDT up reply actions
You completely misread my comment. I was agreeing with Alex Reed in that we were both disagreeing with the bullet point in the recap about Chimera; we both thought Chimera played well. Or is this some weird alien snark? Quoting myself: “I thought he had a good game”.
It is our most modestly priced receptacle.
by Rainbow, Kitty, Beer on Apr 14, 2011 12:20 AM EDT up reply actions
I wasn’t disagreeing with you, I was disagreeing with Kareem. In other words, I agree with your disagreement with Kareem. I apologize for not putting my comment in the correct physical location.
Ok, no worries. We’re on the same page.
It is our most modestly priced receptacle.
by Rainbow, Kitty, Beer on Apr 14, 2011 12:39 AM EDT up reply actions
From my vantage point, Chimera had a couple failed clears/defensive zone miscues early in the game that led to extended time in the Caps zone (and extra Rangers SOG). That’s not going to cut it for a third-liner. He needs to minimze chances against more than he needs to create chances for, because, frankly, he’s not going to bury many of his chances for. The hitting and chipiness is nice, but defensive zone responsibility is the number one priority for a 3W.
In OT, the Chimmer was buzzing. Gotta give him credit for that.
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I also saw a few Chimera miscues. I was not thrilled with his performance today. Not convinced he and JoJo are a good match.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 14, 2011 12:44 AM EDT up reply actions
Agree on Chimmer. Saw him get chances that he didn’t put away but what’s new about that? Hendricks however continues to be fairly invisible out there.
by Naptown CapsFan on Apr 14, 2011 12:15 AM EDT up reply actions
Getting home late is much better when you win.
by SA-Town on Apr 13, 2011 11:54 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Neuvy’s ES SV% today: .958
Lundqvist .931.
Advantage, The Truth
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by fat_daddyo on Apr 13, 2011 11:55 PM EDT reply actions 9 recs
Arnott and Semin were great tonight. Two prime scoring chances that resulted in posts, the GWG, and a number of other great shifts. It was slightly marred by Semin’s penalty, but a great night regardless. I don’t think my heart can take many more games like this.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
in Sasha's defense
…extremely soft call
by DonnieKnutts on Apr 14, 2011 1:48 AM EDT up reply actions
Two plays that caught my eye that nobody will ever put in any kind of recap, but that capture to me what’s different this year from other years:
At about 3:10 left in the 3rd, with the Caps killing a penalty, the Rangers’ right side pointman threw a puck hard across the ice through the legs of Scott Hannan (on the left side). What did Hannan do with the puck screaming at his skates? Absolutely nothing. He just let it pass through him, harmlessly to the corner.
Last year, that would have been an own-goal off Shaone Morrisonn’s skate.
At about 11:15 in overtime, with the puck in the Rangers zone and the Caps set up in their offense, there was a disputed puck right at the center of the blue line. It was drifting out of the zone, and Mike Green backed off and just let it out. He collected it, and calmly skated backwards to regroup.
Last year, Green would have pinched in to keep the puck in the offensive zone. 75% chance he keeps it in, 25% chance the Rangers forward pokes it past him for a breakaway and the game ending goal.
This is a different Caps team. I like what I see.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 13, 2011 11:55 PM EDT reply actions 9 recs
there was one more with Hannan. Late in the game (3rd?) he was back covering a quick developing 2-on-1. He wedged the puck carrier into the boards and peeled off to cover the pass all in the same play. It was gorgeous. The puck carrier got bobbled up because he had no where to skate from the former and no where to play the puck from the latter.
Hi. I have a message for April LaPine from America`s heartland. Um, socks go on your feet not you`re arm. If God wanted `em on your arms, he would`ve put little finger things on `em or whatever. Alright, that`s all.
by renstar on Apr 13, 2011 11:58 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
I saw that too, it was right after the Caps had a 4 on 2 and Chimera ripped a nice self clear high off the glass. I’m not sure how the Rangers only had Zuccarello and McCabe going the other way, but it was a very calm and impressive play by Hannan.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 14, 2011 1:45 AM EDT up reply actions
Good catches. Re: Green, I thought he was smart and responsible, looked to be playing very simply (except for a really dumb icing in the 2nd (?) I believe).
It is our most modestly priced receptacle.
by Rainbow, Kitty, Beer on Apr 13, 2011 11:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Schultz too.
Time and again he had his defense coverage down pat, collected the puck in the defensive end, and made the simple, smart, conservative clearing pass/outlet.
He was rock solid, and always getting the puck out of the zone smartly. Don’t need him to be making great outlet passes. Just need him and everyone else to do the smart thing with the puck, every. single. time.
"By far the worst performers on the team are in the front office." – Sally Jenkins
Nice recap, Kareem. One gripe: 2-0 is not a “comfortable series lead” for Caps fans.
(yes, it’s better than the alternative)
Was it just me or were most of the Caps’ shots glove side? Semin’s game winner? Blocker side.
"And then they’ll look at guys in my situation, that could play three good games in a row and have one bad shift, and they’ll say, ‘Well, that’s why he’s been in the minor leagues his whole career.'" --Matt Hendricks
Semin’s game winner? Sexy side.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Apr 14, 2011 12:01 AM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
The book on Lundqvist (as if it’s different than any other goalie) is to shoot high, glove side. It wasn’t working for them tonight because it seems that Lundqvist has read the same book, and was ready for the top corner shots.
Also, if I remember two years ago correctly, he gets tired and that glove starts to drop. So a lot of glove side shots sets up stuff down the line, hopefully. Though two years ago they were throwing an insane amout of shots on goal.
"Drive defensively" -Marge
"Sometimes the best defense is a good offense" -Homer
by Alz in the family on Apr 14, 2011 8:52 AM EDT up reply actions
I said it once and I’ll say it again….
by Steve418290 on Apr 14, 2011 12:04 AM EDT reply actions 10 recs
Please put a subject line in posts with images so they can be collapsed in the thread.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 14, 2011 7:09 AM EDT up reply actions
I remember that, I recall him holding a wrist but I’m pretty sure he played after that.
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
He played 6 shifts in OT. 19:03 total TOI.
When did you see him hit the boards?
"And then they’ll look at guys in my situation, that could play three good games in a row and have one bad shift, and they’ll say, ‘Well, that’s why he’s been in the minor leagues his whole career.'" --Matt Hendricks
He had one of the last shifts in the game. I was worried at first from how he hit the boards, but he bounced right back up after a few seconds.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
He got up and hit someone right away, I think he’s fine.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 14, 2011 12:19 AM EDT up reply actions
Perfect example of Good and Bad Sasha tonight. Took the almost expected offensive zone hooking penalty and then goes and scores an OT winner.
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
The thing that annoyed me most about the hooking PIM was that it came right off a faceoff when one of the NYR bottom lines was stuck out after a long shift and an icing. Instead of coming out fresh and taking advantage of it, Semin takes an offensive zone penalty.
But I’d say he made up for it.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 14, 2011 1:51 AM EDT up reply actions
as said above, it was a pretty weak call.
I’m not that mad at him for it
"By far the worst performers on the team are in the front office." – Sally Jenkins
He had his stick in the guy’s midsection. Wasn’t the worst hook in the world but definitely a stupid move in the offensive zone to even have your stick there. Hockey fans constantly see those hooks called and give the player a pass because it was a “weak call” or “ticky tack” call. At some point it’s the players’ responsibility to realize that if you put your stick in a guy’s midsection you are begging for a call, even if you aren’t hauling the guy down. Especially if you are Semin.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 14, 2011 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions
I rewatched portions of the game and saw Semin hooking people right off the faceoff a few times, uncalled. The whistles were away, and I like it.
by _Skullduggery_ on Apr 14, 2011 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions
also a couple of semi-questionable hits went uncalled
possible boardings or hits-from-behind in the regular season
by DonnieKnutts on Apr 14, 2011 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s how it always is, the refs aren’t going to call every hook. But that still doesn’t justify the play, especially when you are in a high profile area (like right around the opponent’s net) where a turnover can cause a great scoring chance. That’s where refs are most likely to call a hook.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 14, 2011 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions
I spent wayyy too much time watching this game (only got about 1/2 the pics I was supposed to…but THANK YOU to any rinkers who let me take their pic, I was the girl with the side bangs and caps red nails).
What a game!
I like Laich, but I <3 Green
Keep the faith!!!!!!
by RockinRed4Life on Apr 14, 2011 12:14 AM EDT reply actions
Great gut check win to come back from a goal down after dominating the opening period like that but coming up blank. I like the fortitude. I also liked the Care Bears getting heavy ice time starting part way through the 3rd. Nice move by BB.
I hate to pick on the guy after a big W, but Schultz was brutal again. Neuvy bailed him out twice after he was made to look incredibly silly in the open ice. Use you big f’ing frame to put a body on a guy! He and Hannan got top pairing minutes (Bad move by BB), although not against the Rags top line much, thank goodness.
1 on 1 he’s not a bad option only if he’s close to the guy – because of his long reach. But with ANY speed at all, and I mean ANY – shultz is in the rear-view
Funny, I thought Schultz had a good game. He blocked a ton of shots, had a nice chance in OT as well.
It is our most modestly priced receptacle.
by Rainbow, Kitty, Beer on Apr 14, 2011 12:22 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
agreed
I thought the Sarge was immense. “Blocked by Schultz” was out of Sam Rosen’s mouth every other minute
by DonnieKnutts on Apr 14, 2011 1:49 AM EDT up reply actions
It’s nice to hear ‘blocked by Schultz’ where the subject in question isn’t the goalie’s line of sight.
Welcome to Japers' Rink, we're "elitist" as fuck.
by PrincessPowerful on Apr 14, 2011 1:52 AM EDT up reply actions
Disagree very strongly. He had a few bad shifts, but a number of solid shifts. I remember one guy trying to go around him, and Schultz rode him into the boards all the way behind the net. He was his usual self – quietly effective, with only a couple bad shifts when his lack of speed was exploited.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
fenwick, corsi, qualcomp all don’t agree with you. Nor do the two semi breakaways created by guys skating puckhandling around him like a traffic cone.
Really? +4 in Fenwick, even in Corsi – not that bad. Half the team or more was below him in both. I honestly don’t know how to analyze qualcomp, but I doubt that disagrees any more than Corsi/Fenwick do. As for the last part, you evidently didn’t happen to notice that I said
with only a couple bad shifts when his lack of speed was exploited.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
I’ve learned not to trust my eyes with Schultz.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 14, 2011 12:46 AM EDT up reply actions
Sorry for OT, but…yikes:
@erlendssontrib
RW Marty St. Louis suffered two fractured teeth, had double root canal performed after the game, expected to play Fri.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
I wonder if he’s little enough to fool the tooth fairy.
Welcome to Japers' Rink, we're "elitist" as fuck.
by PrincessPowerful on Apr 14, 2011 12:24 AM EDT up reply actions 11 recs
The high stick was pretty brutal, and his mouth was definitely a mess afterwords. Not surprised, to tell you the truth.
TBL got kinda boned by the officiating.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I’m not sure that actually should have been called a high stick.
60.1 High-sticking – A "high stick" is one which is carried above the height of the opponent’s shoulders. (continues).
Most ice hockey rule books specify that the stick needs to be above the “normal shoulder height.” Given where St. Louis’ head was, I’m not sure this play would actually merit a high stick. Did he get whacked in the face? Sure. But was the contact above his normal shoulder height? I’m not so sure.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 14, 2011 1:18 AM EDT up reply actions
They had Kerry Fraser on TSN between periods talking about that missed call and he said that Michalek should have been given a 5 minute slashing penalty
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Apr 14, 2011 7:58 AM EDT up reply actions
Kerry Fraser is weighing in on missed calls in the playoffs? The entire city of Toronto weeps at the irony.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 14, 2011 9:13 AM EDT up reply actions
Indeed mate, indeed.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Apr 14, 2011 9:44 AM EDT up reply actions
Definitely not a high stick. He was on his way down. It was just an unfortunate play.
by _Skullduggery_ on Apr 14, 2011 12:18 PM EDT up reply actions
Sucks… But at least he’ll get to add “big time tough guy” to his resume.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 14, 2011 12:28 AM EDT up reply actions
That’s been on his resume since he was playing in Calgary. Marty’s never had a toughness issue.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 14, 2011 9:35 AM EDT up reply actions
YIkes! I don’t like the Bolts, but I like watching MSL play… get well soon, dude. Beat the Pens while you’re at it.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 14, 2011 9:35 AM EDT up reply actions
so i missed parts of the broadcast here and there, but i never noticed any real poncho love from joeB, locker or the CSN cameras. certainly the folks sitting immediately behind torts were usually poncho-less. were our efforts in vain?
*
i should say i missed huge chunks of the broadcast, like 10 minutes at a time. so definitely could’ve missed some CSN love.
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 14, 2011 12:26 AM EDT up reply actions
GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL. <3 Ovie and Semin
Just got home, 4 hours of CSN is only 8.65 GB, nifty.
was that the game-winner, or AO’s goal?
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 14, 2011 12:33 AM EDT up reply actions
Fucking gold bro.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 12:34 AM EDT up reply actions
Is there a youtube?
“History never sleeps…”
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 14, 2011 12:47 AM EDT up reply actions
350 days later...
They say there is symmetry in sports…but how much more could you handle in the comparison from Game 7 last year to Game 1 tonight? A 2-1 result, a 3rd period Ovechkin game-tying goal that gets reviewed, Sasha Semin performing the full spectrum of his abilities (good and bad). This time around however…the goal counted, and no one can bitch at Semin for not scoring in this playoffs. With a big assist from the Semin Whisperer.
Other shit…Green looked a little rusty, felt like he was giving up the O zone blueline too much and not holding pucks in, but also heard the ice was shit so maybe that had something to do with it. Couple posts, but Henrik was also very good. Stone Hands…argh. One of those has to go in at some point. Captain getting dirty, I liked it, and we needed it, considering he whiffed a couple chances but arguably could have 2 helpers at other points in the game. Overall, we’ll take it. Doesn’t matter whether you win by an inch or a mile, it’s a 1-0 series lead.
I could talk forever about this game but I want to eat something, and wait for Dimagus to do his gifs. Win one game, do it 15 more times.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 12:32 AM EDT reply actions
Oh…and FD…young girl I met???? Wtf bro? ;)
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 12:34 AM EDT up reply actions
Hahahaha not at all, just playing into some inside jokes with friends in my group completely unwittingly hahaha.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 12:42 AM EDT up reply actions
The afterglow of a nice win is, how to say this, a propitious time for making attractive acquaintances. All I’m going to say on that. But it led me to believe that it was a shot in the dark with greater than average chances of connecting.
Some day I’ll tell you about being on the Villanova campus as they won the National Championship against G’Town. If you aspired to smooch a total stranger, it was a pleasant environment.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
A thinking man, always taking advantage of his surroundings ;) hell everyone was happy tonight.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 12:46 AM EDT up reply actions
the sailor was there with his future wife, watching a movie, but decided to plant one on the nurse anyway. baller. from wikipedia:
Mendonça, on leave from the USS The Sullivans (DD-537), was watching a movie with his date, his future wife, Rita, at Radio City Music Hall when the doors opened and people started screaming the war was over. George and Rita took part in the partying on the street, but when they couldn’t get into the packed bars decided to walk down the street. It was then that George saw a nurse walk by and took her into his arms and kissed her, “I had quite a few drinks that day and I considered her one of the troops—she was a nurse.” In one of the four pictures that Eisenstaedt took, Mendonça claims that Rita is visible in the background behind the kissing couple.
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 14, 2011 12:52 AM EDT up reply actions
Green gave me much more than I expected.
He was rusty, but also clearly one of our best players
"By far the worst performers on the team are in the front office." – Sally Jenkins
I definitely wouldn’t go that far. Green wasn’t bad with only a couple defensive gaffs. But I thought his offense was terrible because his passing and stick handling were incredibly sloppy. Even on his best scoring chance in the 1st he didn’t get off the best shot because he didn’t handle a fairly easy pass cleanly. Sure, he was rusty, but that still doesn’t make him one of the best players last night. If we are talking best players last night Green is easily behind Hannan and Carlzner on D, and a slew of Fs.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 14, 2011 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Henrik Lundqvist:
“The shot was just a rocket. I tried to be square but I didn’t have time to react on that one. It was a good shot.”
"You do that you go to the box, you know. Two minutes by yourself and you feel shame, you know. And then you get free."
Too bad he does that all too often.
I like Laich, but I <3 Green
Keep the faith!!!!!!
by RockinRed4Life on Apr 14, 2011 12:44 AM EDT up reply actions
@jtbourne
Ho-ly hell can Semin shoot a hockey puck. In Ovy/Stamkos/Kovalchuk’s league. Goodness.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 14, 2011 12:41 AM EDT up reply actions
Certainly nothing we didn’t already know. I have never seen a better wrister except maybe Kovy
Aim for the head baby Jesus
No one in the league has a shot like his 1 back legged off balance wrister. He just as like a perfect whip of a shot when doing that for that much speed to it.
His slappers aren’t usually as good, but he sure nailed that one in exactly like 8/91/17 are signature for.
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
It was one of those shots where the goalie is pretty much a largish road cone. The shot is either going to miss the net or be on goal, and it’s either going to hit the goalie or go in… this one went in. Lundqvist had 0 chance of saving it.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 14, 2011 9:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Glad many people felt like I did that we could have put up 2 or 3 goals in the first two periods. We need to get a lead early in Game 2…start suffocating them and finish holding serve at home.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 12:45 AM EDT reply actions
Was so sick of the “Henrik, clap-clap-clap, Henrik” chants behind me in 425. Even when he did nothing they would do it. If he let in a softie I wanted to start the same chant from Caps fans.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 12:47 AM EDT reply actions
I was in 428, and actually kind of appreciated them drowning out the guys behind me telling Schultz “you’re not a corn stalk Schultz” and constantly yelling for our defensemen to “smash em into jelly.” They seemed pretty knowledgeable about hockey, but… jelly?
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 14, 2011 1:25 AM EDT up reply actions
Nailed to a tree.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
by EmilyB on Apr 14, 2011 1:33 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
I’m sorry, but that sounds funny. I could see how it would get annoying though…
by _Skullduggery_ on Apr 14, 2011 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Can I just say that I just got back from the game, and the first thing I did is read the GDT over and wow do some people on here fold like wet fucking rags. After that 3rd period goal how did people really think we had no chance at all?
by seanconore on Apr 14, 2011 12:57 AM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Doom and Gloom is strong. Resist the dark side.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 12:58 AM EDT up reply actions
Come over to the Dark Side… we have Cup Cakes.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 14, 2011 9:38 AM EDT up reply actions
i think part of the fun of the GDT for some of us is having other people around to share the highs and lows. hard to blame caps fans for getting down on the team in the heat of the moment.
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 14, 2011 1:01 AM EDT up reply actions
And it had been something like 9 periods since the Caps scored on the Rags.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I saw one guy start a first round exit chant and then talk about semin doing ‘another disappearing act’ in the third. He kind of was the only guy with 2 points tonight
Semin certainly showed all sides of Sasha tonight…there were a couple of Green haters in my section. He throws an icing down into the Rags zone and people were like “someone hit him in the head so he can stay injured”. Sad.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 1:18 AM EDT up reply actions
so i wasn’t there, i can’t comment about what was said. i just normally excuse the general ethos of GDTs, particularly during the playoffs.
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 14, 2011 1:19 AM EDT up reply actions
Re-watching overtime because we had a guest over so I was distracted.
there was a shift with 12:00 left in overtime where the Caps did some really beautiful cycling. Really tired some of the Rangers out. Girardi was one of them (with McCabe)
Atta dinnin stick a who!
Which led to this
This is just after Staal has turned the puck over to Arnott prior to the GWG.
That Ranger in the background is Girardi. As you can see, he’s just standing there watching the play. As Sasha moves to receive the pass, he sort of sidles into the crease and waves his stick at Sasha.
A really poor play. I’m putting that goal more on Girardi than Staal, as he did not give Staal an option, and then failed to cover his assignment.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
by fat_daddyo on Apr 14, 2011 1:16 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Girardi’s certainly in no mans land, but that goal’s on Drury and Staal, it’s hard for Girardi to anticipate the fail there.
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Tracking the Rangers - Numbers don't lie. They just don't agree with you.
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by George E. Ays on Apr 14, 2011 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions
The second bullet is something that really does annoy me about Boudreau. I understand not wanting to let the other team dictate who you play, but to not use the advantage that home ice provides is a failure of hubris. Boudreau has to do a better job of putting the team in a better position to win by getting the ideal matchups. Just because you line match does not mean the other team is controlling who you do or don’t play.
I have planned my grand attacks; I will stand behind their backs. With my brand new battle-axe, they will taste my wrath. They will hear me say as the pavement whirls, "I hate California girls."
by Steckel Me Elmo on Apr 14, 2011 1:09 AM EDT reply actions
Boudreau according to qoc did do that plenty the last two seasons, but it seems like partway through this year he kind of stopped caring.
As long as it gives the team its best chance to win, I don’t mind. He definitely should be getting ovechkin away from staal…i don’t think forwards are such a big concern.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Apr 14, 2011 9:06 AM EDT up reply actions
Eyes on the puck, from AP photog Alex Brandon:
"You do that you go to the box, you know. Two minutes by yourself and you feel shame, you know. And then you get free."
by LucyImHome on Apr 14, 2011 1:11 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Ovechkin GTG (Semin, Green)
“Hey, it’s a GOAL!”
by Dimagus on Apr 14, 2011 1:12 AM EDT reply actions 9 recs
That kid is money
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 1:14 AM EDT up reply actions
he really is a star. i hope he returns in game 2.
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 14, 2011 1:23 AM EDT up reply actions
That kid was napping while Semin scored the goal, then all of a sudden he woke up and started cheering. There’s a vid on youtube of it I think.
Given the age and relative lateness on a school night…plus his pro reaction on the above gif…I’ll rule to allow it.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 1:38 AM EDT up reply actions
Sorry OT, but did anyone notice that kid behind the Rangers bench wearing a Caps shirt and making the disallow sign with his arms when they were reviewing the Ovechkin goal?
I don’t think that means what you think that means… someone better learn that kid!
by _Skullduggery_ on Apr 14, 2011 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions
You’re welcome I stopped. Pissed I only got to see final 8 minutes or so of the Van/Chi game but tonight was good enough to make amends. Wish the Nashville game was on somewhere.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 1:19 AM EDT up reply actions
Yeah I know. I just can’t get enough. I’m going to fall asleep tonight to On the Fly.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 1:21 AM EDT up reply actions
21-44-28 had a very dangerous shift at about 4:00 left in overtime. Harbinger for what was to come…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
Was interesting the minor line switching that went on over the course of the game. Laich started on 3rd line but seemed to be just taking the faceoffs for Mackan instead of the plan a few of us laid out on here of Mackan just cheating like hell to win draws or if he got kicked out then Laich could take them. Eventually Sturm and Laich swapped lines, and when we were down 1-0 BB went back to SOB for a bit. Glad he eventually reunited The Semin Whisperer with Sasha for OT though. What a fucking missile.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 1:40 AM EDT up reply actions
Unstoppable.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 1:42 AM EDT up reply actions
Both ;)
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 1:44 AM EDT up reply actions
Less mugging, more hugging!
Welcome to Japers' Rink, we're "elitist" as fuck.
by PrincessPowerful on Apr 14, 2011 1:45 AM EDT up reply actions
I agree in principle :)
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 14, 2011 1:46 AM EDT up reply actions
That was playoff hockey...
The first time I have seen it from the Caps since the early 90s I think, and much appreciated. A couple of points:
The boys as a whole played outstanding in their zone. 32 blocks? Really? A few micues or weak plays here and there, but they did what needed to be done. Having said that, Michal Neuvirth made a lot of huge saves, Much as Lundqvist kept the Rangers in the game, since they couldn’t solve him, Neuvy had to keep the Caps in the game. While the one goal he gave up was savable, he was screened, and still, one in 25 works for me. Outstanding game by Michal, as I think we will continue to see.
Semin… only luck stops that. The weakest goalie, the best… doesn’t matter. You can’t see it, you just hope he shoots it at you. If you watch Henrik, he has started the spring to that side and the puck is already past him.
I said Caps in 5 by a total differential of 5 goals. I’m sticking to that.
I don't know, maybe it was the roses...
He returned to play later in the game… so I guess so. If he starts talking about how ice coefficients are shiny though, then maybe he needs to take a break…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 14, 2011 9:41 AM EDT up reply actions
Washington TOI
28:56 Backstrom
28:39 Hanaan (00:13 PP, 2:29 SH)
27:49 Schultz (00:13 PP, 2:29 SH)
27:38 Knuble
26:46 Ovechkin
26:30 Green (1:45 PP, 0:00 SH)
26:19 Carlson (1:18 PP, 1:31 SH)
23:42 Alzner (0:00 PP, 1:31 SH)
22:57 Laich
22:15 Semin
19:18 Erskine (0:00 PP, 0:00 SH)
19:03 Johansson
18:46 Arnott
17:53 Sturm
15:27 Chimera
14:37 Gordon
11:26 Bradley
09:59 Hendricks
I think Ovie’s goal needs a few taps of the stick here. I think it speaks to his want to win, stopping at the back post rather than circling and remaining as an asset to Semin as he came skating in. Then the way he dropped and kept pounding away till the whistle blew. Just the type of goal you’d much more likely to see 22 potting than 8. I just loved seeing that determination and then exuberance at his seeing it pay off.
And Ovie referred to Sasha as Jizz during that interview. And Versus aired it. Glorious.
by _Skullduggery_ on Apr 14, 2011 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Ovi was in front of Semin…I forget how the play transpired exactly, but Semin seemed like he was trying to be too cute with the shot.
So somehow, I think Ovi was like, “Silly Semin. Let me show you how its done.”
...duhhh....what's a goal?
by RedskinFan4Life on Apr 14, 2011 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s 2:15, I have to get up in an hour and a half, and I will leave you with this thought, in case you are inclined to get all fat and happy after this win.
In seven game series, the Caps are 4-13 when winning Game 1.
There is much work to be done.
If you've read this far...seek help.
In seven game series, the Caps are 4-13 when winning Game 1.
"You do that you go to the box, you know. Two minutes by yourself and you feel shame, you know. And then you get free."
by LucyImHome on Apr 14, 2011 2:14 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Please put a subject line in image posts so they can be collapsed.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 14, 2011 7:11 AM EDT up reply actions
Although it’s great to be up 1-0, one of the biggest facts that I’m ‘fat and happy’ is the way the Capitals’ came out tonight. Last year the Caps came out very flat and lost the first game in OT. Tonight, they came out with energy and dominated most of the game.
I do agree; however, that there is much work to be done.
Soon the Championship with be ours, all ours!
Semin had a signature evening, notching a goal, an assist and a hooking penalty and earning the most prolific “Alex Semin Hat Trick” of his career.
If Semin ever plays for another team, we have to tell them about the Alex Semin Hat Trick. They will never fully understand the depths of jizz. But hey, that’s just how it is.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 14, 2011 2:37 AM EDT reply actions
Observations from Section 421
What a treat that game was. Lots of good chances both ways, good hitting, tremendous effort by both teams… and oh yeah, the good guys won.
1) The game winning shot by Semin… no goalie saves it unless it happens to hit them. Was the only clean shot that beat Lundqvist last night.
2) The amazing thing for Lundqvist is that his top defensive stoppers, Staal and Girardi, were on ice for both goals against (it happens since they play alot against top scorers). What makes it amazing was that both goals were as a result of their being outplayed. Staal’s turnover set up the OT winner, and Girardi getting plowed when trying to stop Ovechkin set up the first goal. They did a pretty good job containing Ovechkin most of the night though.
3) Great game by Lundqvist and Neuvirth as well. Lundqvist truly was outstanding and if he wasn’t on his game, the Caps would have been up 2-0 or 3-0 after one. He was a real workhorse in net, and made a lot of tough saves, including a nice stop on Backstrom on a breakaway. Neuvirth didn’t have as many tough saves to make, but he made the save of the night when he stopped Gaborik point blank in front of the net.
4) Love the hitting and the aggressive physical play. Gotta be careful with it though. They could have called Brads for a boarding call in the third period, but didn’t.
5) Despite that they played well most of the night, both Ovechkin and Semin took very stupid penalties, Semin with an offensive zone hook (to start his Semin Hat Trick) in the first, and Ovie’s roughing on Prust in the third. You have to save that “revenge” for game 2… you’ll see Prust quite a bit over the next week or two, Ovie. You’ll get him back…
Still a good effort from both teams, a lot of good hard work, and in the end it comes down to raw talent… and if that’s how the series is going to go, the Caps are going to do well.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
Opposition Goalies
Lundquist had better not put together a series performance like Halak did last year… people always forget that the only reason the Habs won is because of his ridiculous performance, and countless “lucky” saves. Lundquist’s play last night was giving me flashbacks.
Except yesterday was full of crossbar hits and good opportunities in close.
Two things that were missing vs Halak last year.
"By far the worst performers on the team are in the front office." – Sally Jenkins
After Semin hit the pipe, I thought Game 7 vs Montreal all over again.
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by red army line on Apr 14, 2011 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions
ranger fan here...not looking for trouble
just wanna say that I was very impressed with what I saw last night from the caps defensively. They got in the way of the shooting lanes (granted the rangers didnt make it all that hard to do that since they didnt rotate) and they applied very good pressure in their defensive zone. On the rangers side of things we’re keeping our spirits up over at BSB that this is an inexperienced playoff team that just got a hell of a wake up call last night playing against a much more talented team. I would say that I was impressed with Nuevy but the Caps also cut down on the high quality scoring chances by forcing shots from low percentage areas and clearing the puck from the net.
My expectations for Friday are a more even game, with the rangers getting their playoff legs under them and start to get more comfortable with themselves in the playoffs. Good luck the rest of the way
"Don't look now, but there's one too many people in this room and I think it's you." Groucho Marx
"He may look like an idiot and talk like an idiot but don't let that fool you. He really is an idiot" Evgeny Nabakov on Garth Snow
In Prust We Trust
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A lot of smoke and desperate clawing at the door. It wouldn’t work. It would just be a big, hot mess." -Dig Deep
by Kevin Power on Apr 14, 2011 10:34 AM EDT reply actions 6 recs
Right back at you brother.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 14, 2011 10:39 AM EDT up reply actions
just wanna say that I was very impressed with what I saw last night from the caps defensively. They got in the way of the shooting lanes (granted the rangers didnt make it all that hard to do that since they didnt rotate)
I was saying the same thing about the Rangers’ shot blocking last night. I know the Rangers are a great shot blocking team, but the Caps were just firing it right into their shin pads from straight away. They would come in the zone, hold the puck for a second, see there wasn’t a great pass then fire it straight into the Dman who was standing in front of them the whole time without even trying to change the angle. The Rangers did a great job getting in shooting lanes, but it’s not like they were sliding around blocking all the shots.
Still, with all the blocked shots it had to be a real frustrating game for both offenses.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 14, 2011 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Both teams were quite good last night. Both goalies were on top of their game, both defenses were getting great position and therefore tons of blocks. This is what I’m expecting to see from the series – close games with tight defense. This is great playoff hockey.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
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