How cool was this game? The Capitals opened a can of whoop-ass and slapped Vancouver around. The Vancouver forecheck never existed and Washington’s forecheck dominated. This game was an absolute joy to watch from beginning to end. When the other team is trying to get the puck out of their zone all night it is impossible to shoot. Hence, 10 shots for the night for Vancouver and the last one came from center ice. Federov was fantastic on defense. I was very impressed and may rescind an earlier post about keeping him at center on the third line. I thought Boyd Gordon played extremely well in his first game and that type of play may keep Sergei at the blueline. We’ll see.
Greenie’s power play goal was perfectly played and Nylander made a great move on the penalty shot, although I thought the call was a gift. I really hope this is what we see of Semin this year. That toe drag shot is very deceptive. And how cool was Jurcina’s goal? Boyd Gordon wins the draw to Clarkie who puts it on Jurcina’s stick and then into the goal. Very cool. I must say I replayed that one a couple of times. A perfect faceoff. Well done guys.
The Capitals continue to outshoot opponents. 35-10 in this game and the faceoffs were 50%. I will take it! Regarding an earlier post, Backstrom improved his faceoff percentage to 55% against Vancouver. We need more of this if Federov is to continue playing defense.
Thoughts?
