It is really disappointing to have such a good game end in such a terrible way.  The Caps controlled the shots against the Bruins as they ended with a 36-28 advantage and they carried the play throughout the game.  If Thomas wasn’t great for Boston this would have been 10-2.  Whatever.  Ovie’s stupid pass through the middle allowed Thornton to score for Boston despite a good effort from Theo.  Still, a bad play.  Green is guilty of this a lot as well.  You must go up the sides people!

The Caps and Bruins were physical in this one as well which made it even more exciting.  I read the Caps were outhit 31-21, but it seemed like the Caps stood up for themselves.  I am thinking that since the Caps were in the Bruins’ zone most of the night it allowed them to hit more.  Still, my main concern right now is the PK.  The Caps cannot go into the playoffs with a PK south of 80%.  When the Caps went to the Cup in ‘98 their PK was above 90%.  That is insanely high, but it allowed the defense to play aggressively.  Right now, the Caps cannot take stupid penalties because they lose games as a result.  I stupid hooking call on Backstrom lost this game.  Enough said?

I am encourage by Theo’s continued good play.  Hopefully, this is the Montreal goalie we knew and the Theo of October and November is gone.  Chara’s hit on Ovie was clean and fair.  As much as it upset me to see Ovie laying there I couldn’t fault Chara.  It looked like Ovie just caught a toe in the ice and his speed left him vulnerable.  That is good, hard hockey.  It wasn’t dirty.

Semin sucks.

Thoughts?