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In some ways, this win was more encouraging than many of the others during the Caps’ home winning streak. They didn’t blow the game open or take control early and coast to victory—instead, it was puck control and puck movement from start to finish.
It was a gentle reminder that the team is capable of playing a 60-minute game when it’s necessary. That’s always welcome, reassuring, and likely good to help stave off bad habits that could come with regular blowout wins.
They also kept that five-goals-a-game streak alive. And Nicklas Backstrom is now just one point away from 700.
Here’s Thursday night’s Plus/Minus:
And now, this…
The trip keeps getting better for Fatima. #HockeyIsForEveryonehttps://t.co/1qLP9d4g8W pic.twitter.com/aoHWhfZrEl
— NHL (@NHL) February 10, 2017
Ten more notes on the game:
This game really seemed to suit the Caps. It was slow and not terribly exciting, and they dominated. Washington used its skill and speed to control the puck and patiently create opportunities offensively while preventing Detroit (17 SOG) from generating any sort of sustained pressure.
The Caps haven’t locked up the division or the President’s Trophy just yet, but with the way things are going, it’s hard to imagine this being in question for much longer. The team is on pace for 122 points. That’s about nine better than Columbus or Pittsburgh, and five ahead of Minnesota. With 30 games or fewer remaining, that’s a lot.
Game highlights: