Another exciting game for the Caps as they beat the Islanders in overtime.  This was one of those games where the Caps couldn’t score and you were just waiting for the Islanders to win it at the end.  However, a very weak call in OT allowed the Caps to go on the PP and win it thanks to a great pass from Semin to Ovie.  Of course, the Caps may not have even been in that situation were it not for two bad penalties putting the Caps in a 5-3 PK.  They gave up one goal, but not a second which was fortunate. 

The Caps outshot the Islanders 38-28 and won the faceoff circle war as well, 33-25.  The Caps carried the play once again.  Clark was back in the lineup with Steckel and Fehr being healthy scratches.  Clark and Flash have been quiet lately.  I don’t see either doing much.  In Flash’s case, he had a couple good shots, but has not scored a point.  Clark has done nothing as far as I can tell.  He needs to be in there scrapping.  I thought Brooks Laich played very well and has been lately.  He has not scored a goal though, but he is streaky.  He has gone two games in a row now with an assist.  Keep hustling Brooksie!

The Caps are off to Ottawa for a game tomorrow night.  The could head into the All-Star game with 65 points with a win.  Is anyone scared the Caps may win the division too soon?????

Thoughts?

Wow!  This was a good game.  The Caps skated very well throughout the entire game with the exception of a few minutes in the second period.  Unfortunately, this was when they gave up a terrible goal.  You can say what you want about Lepisto on the play, but I don’t fault him.  Yeah, he could have (should have?) made a better play on the puck, however NO ONE back checked.  There were TWO Islander forwards standing there in front of the net having tea.  What was everyone else doing?  That was called lollygagging when I played.  Give me a break.  Johnnie should have lit into everyone and I hope he did.  That was terrible.

On a positive note, Brash got a goal which was nice to see.  He works hard and fights for this team.  It is nice to see him score a goal (and the game winner!).  Nice going Brash!  Ovie and Backstrom scored, but Fehr had a nice backhand.  I was getting annoyed with him watching this game because he has not been contributing over the last few games and I wanted him sent down.  I know that is not going to happen with Clarkie out, but he needs to bang more or something.  One goal every ten games is not going to get it done, IMO.  Laich continues to be solid with two assists and missed a breakaway shot and a backhand shot that should have gone in were it not for excellent goaltending from McDonald.  Still, he contributes and has quietly amassed almost 20 points this season.  I will take that.  Keep going to the net Brooksie!  Johnnie played very well in the net.

When are the hurt people coming back?  I am reading that all are skating except Erskine.  Another defenseman has been called up for Sloan.  The 11th defenseman and we are only 25% of the way through the season.  Geez.  I have been happy with Lepisto, Helmer, and Alzner though.  It will be exciting to have Alzner up full time.  He is going to be good.

Thoughts?