+11 – The Capitals’ goal differential in the second period, highest in the League to date. Through eight games this season, the Caps have picked up 13 goals in the middle frame (tied for second-most in the NHL) and given up just two (tied for fewest). The Caps have also outshot opponents in that second period, putting 87 pucks on net while allowing just 62 the other direction.
After a few seasons where they were just middling in the middle period, second-period outbursts were actually a strength of theirs last year, as well. They finished the season with a second-best 103 goals scored and just 83 allowed.
Of course, it’s probably a good thing that their second period is so strong, because right now it’s what’s driving the bus. While sporting a +11 in the second period, they’re -11 over the other two and have been outshot 160-156 in first and third periods.