A New Challenge Awaits...

I started blogging March 14, 2007.  My blog was originally titled Bottomfeeder Baseball Blog, and I attempted to write about the Nats, Orioles, fantasy baseball, Capitals and other stuff.   It was not very good and nobody read it.  About that time, I also started writing about the Caps and the Nats at DC Sports Box, and I want to express my thanks to Al Santos for allowing me that great

Capitals Turn Up Intensity in Shootout Win Over Buffalo

With every pre-season game that passes, the Washington Capitals have turned up the intensity a little bit each time.  Last night against the Buffalo Sabres, before a not-quite packed house at Verizon Center, they did so again in beating the Sabres 4-3 in a six-round shootout.
Nicklas Backstrom, Mike Green and Matt Hendricks all scored in regular time and Tomas Vokoun made 21 saves on 24 shots to

Capitals re-sign Jason Chimera

The Washington Capitals announced Thursday via press release they re-signed winger Jason Chimera to a two-year deal, which runs through the 2013-14 season.  Terms were not disclosed in accordance with team policy, but several outlets report the deal is worth a total of $3.5 million, resulting in a salary cap hit of $1.75 million per year.
The speedy Chimera plays regularly on the Caps third line

About the White Nets

Nobody likes change.  Especially a change that has little-to-no warning.  Double-especially on a change to a product or service after it has been paid for.  Sometimes change can be for the good, sometimes... not so much.
Last night at Verizon Center, a pre-season hockey game between the Washington Capitals and Columbus Blue Jackets took place.  The Caps beat a Jackets team comprised mostly of

McPhee's Comments on NHL Realignment

Most of the Capitals Convention Saturday was about autographs, fan interaction with the players, and reuniting with old friends and making new ones.  But during the panel discussions there was some pretty decent information passed along if you were willing to pay attention.
One such case was in GM George McPhee's panel in the morning.  Once known as "The Undertaker", McPhee has gotten really good

Very Quick Impressions from CapsCon

Here are some very quick, incomplete and probably incoherent impressions of CapsCon today at the Convention Center.
1)  If the President of the United States is speaking in the same venue that 6,000-plus hockey fans are, someone may want to increase security.
2)  Also, he may want to pay his proper respects at Verizon Center at some point.  Just sayin'.
3)  Kevin Kaminski is more giving of his

First Annual Caps Alumni Game Kicks off Convention

The retired heroes of Washington Capitals' teams past walked by on their way to the locker rooms like a parade of memories. Don Beaupre. Calle Johansson. Mike Gartner, carrying a Toronto Maple Leafs equipment bag. Mark Lofthouse, who wore No. 8 before it was cool. Peter Bondra. The list went on and on.
For anyone that grew up on these names, these players, it was a thrill seeing them at

Boudreau Juggling Lines in the Pre-Season

I don't blame all the breathless Tweeting and posting from Kettler this week about how Bruce Boudreau is tinkering with possible line combinations.  We're all excited for the return of hockey and unless there's an injury or trade there's not much else to write about during a practice from training camp. 
Knuble's on the second line?  Johansson is still with Ovi!  Ward could play first or third

Capitals Cut 13 Players from Training Camp

The Washington Capitals cut 13 players this morning from training camp before travelling to Columbus for tonight's pre-season game with the Blue Jackets.
Among the cuts were Stan Galiev, who had a strong camp, and Danick Paquette, who was acquired in the off-season trade with Winnipeg for Eric Fehr.
Galiev was sent back to St. John of the QMJHL, his junior team, after a strong showing in both the

Caps Slush Through Baltimore Hockey "Classic"

The best thing to say about the Washington Capitals 2-0 loss to the Nashville Predators at the Baltimore Civic Center 1st Mariner Arena, is that no one got hurt due to the ice surface.
By all accounts of those that witnessed the event in person, the ice was soft, cracked, and pooling with water all night long.  The new voice of the Capitals, radio play-by-play man John Walton, remarked at every

Tomas Vokoun Gets Down to Business with Capitals

“When they tell me to play, I’m gonna go on the ice and gonna play the best that I can.”


Of all the new faces on the Washington Capitals this season, none is more experienced — and perhaps none more under the microscope — than 35-year old netminder Tomas Vokoun. Vokoun has toiled his entire career 13-year NHL career for bottom-dwelling teams, first during the infancy of the Nashville Predators,

Quick Hits from Day One of Caps Training Camp



Yes, some were sucking wind during the first day of camp. (photo by Cheryl Nichols)

We'll have plenty of quotes in a longer post later on, but here are some quick observations from Day 1 of the Washington Capitals  2011 Training Camp.  Everyone (including us) has been talking about the shaving cream pie in the face Alex Ovechkin received from some of his running mates for his birthday, but

Photos: Ovi's Birthday Shaving Cream Pie

After the first day of Caps training camp, several of the players spoke to the media. Alex Ovechkin was near the end of his comments when Nicklas Backstrom and Brooks Laich decided to give Ovi a shaving cream pie in the face for this 26th birthday! And apparently, teammates had already given Ovi one in the locker room so this was the second one of the day. 

Here are photos of the fun, including

Capitals to Wear Third Sweater Select Road Games

The Washington Capitals announced this morning via press release they will be wearing the Winter Classic uniforms for 16 select road games in the upcoming season.  We cannot applaud this move enough.
ARLINGTON, Va. – The Washington Capitals will wear a third jersey modeled after their 2011 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic jersey for 16 select road games during the 2011-12 season, vice president

Capitals Fall to Flyers 3-2 in Rookie Game

In the grand scheme of things, the vast majority of the players on the ice today will never wear a sweater in an NHL game.  But for the rookies and free agent invitees that donned Washington Capitals and Philadelphia Flyers gear for the annual rookie game, this game meant a lot to whether or not they would be gainfully employed playing for those respective organizations when camp breaks.
And for

Is It October Yet?

It's been quite a summer, eh Caps fans?
First, it started way too early.  Then GM George McPhee re-signed the most expensive roadside assistance technician, traded all of his draft picks and former starting playoff goalie and acquired a quarter of this season's roster in 24 hours.  For good measure, he locked up a cornerstone on the blue line for a fraction of market value.
There was a good 

Capitals Announce Training Camp Schedule and Roster

The Washington Capitals announced their training camp schedule and roster via press release today:
Every practice open and free to the public

ARLINGTON, Va. – The Washington Capitals will begin their 2011-12 Training Camp at Kettler Capitals Iceplex on Saturday, Sept. 17, vice president and general manager George McPhee announced today.
Training camp will last 19 days with the NHL regular

John Carlson Throws First Pitch at Nats Game

(D.Nichols/Caps News Network)
Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson threw out the honorary first pitch before the first game of a doubleheader between the Washington Nationals and Los Angeles Dodgers Thursday afternoon.  Luckily for all, there was a long enough break in the rain, at least downtown, for the event to not get washed out.
Carlson spoke to a few reporters from the press

Caps Announce Rookie Camp Schedule and Roster

Capitals Announce Rookie Camp Schedule and Roster
Every practice open and free to the public
ARLINGTON, Va. – Capitals rookies will take to the ice at Kettler Capitals Iceplex next week for the 2011 Washington Capitals rookie camp, vice president and general manager George McPhee announced today.

Several players will participate in rookie camp, which begins Sunday, Sept. 11, with a 10:30 a.m.

Ovechkin Signs Partnership with Bauer Hockey

Photos from the Press Conference:All Photos ©Cheryl Nichols Photography/CapsNewsNetwork

New Voice of Washington Capitals John Walton
Alex Ovechkin speaking to media
CEO Bauer Hockey Kevin Davis

Caps Care donated $25,000 to Potomac Valley Amateur Hockey Association
Ovechkin, Davis and George McPhee with the kids from PVAHA
Alex offered up his stool to Ted Leonsis and Ted declined
Ovi and Ted

More Ado About Nothing

First Matt Bradley.  Then David Steckel.  Who's next, Andrew Gordon?
Reporters caught up with David Steckel this morning, who was at Kettler getting some skating in with former teammates.  While Stecks didn't really add anything to Bradley's comments of a couple weeks ago criticizing Alexander Semin, he certainly didn't disagree with anything Bradley said.  “It's not like he went out and told

Washington Capitals to Hold Inaugural Alumni Game

The Washington Capitals announced via press release today the date for their inaugural Capitals Alumni Game, Sept. 23 at Kettler Capitals Iceplex.  At the Alumni Game at the Winter Classic last season, Caps fans that made the trip to Pittsburgh were treated to see Caps favorites like Peter Bondra, Craig Laughlin and Don Beaupre lace up their skates once again.  Based on the success of that event,

Debate: Which New Caps Player is Under Most Pressure to Succeed?

In conjunction with my blogger brethren Adam Vingan of Kings of Leonsis, we present a point-counterpoint on which new member of the Washington Capitals in under the most pressure this upcoming season.  Adam thinks winger Joel Ward has a target on his back, I think it's veteran goalie Tomas Vokoun. 

Later this week we'll take a look at which veteran Caps player fits that description.  As always,

PHOTOS: Caps Development Camp Scrimmage

Hockey in July? Yes, definitely. I think it is safe to say that the DC area is a "hockey town." There were an estimated 3000 fans at Kettler Iceplex to watch the Washington Capitals Development Camp wrap up on Saturday, July 16, 2011 with an intrasquad scrimmage and Fan Fest. [DevCampGuide]

Head Coach Bruce Boudreau and GM George McPhee addressed the media after the scrimmage as well as several

"Nothing like hockey in July"

The players shake hands after the final scrimmage of Development Camp. (C.Nichols/Caps News Network)

Early this week at Kettler Capitals Iceplex, there were some comments and debate in the media room about how much Washington Capitals fans were going to pay attention to the upcoming development camp. After all, the week-long series of practice and scrimmages featured -- for the most part --

Capitals Re-Sign D Karl Alzner

The Washington Capitals announced today they re-signed defenseman Karl Alzner to a two-year deal.  According to reports, the 22-year old will make $1.3 million in 2011-12 and $1.27 million in 2012-13, a total of $2.57 for the two-year deal.
If the reports are correct, this is an absolute steal for GM George McPhee and makes us wonder why it took so long for the deal to get hammered out.  This is

Group B Wins Scrimmage; Sjogren, Galiev Impress; Perreault Re-signs

The first intrasquad scrimmage of the Washington Capitals development camp went pretty much as expected.  It was -- for the most part -- sloppy and disjointed, with most of the goals coming off scrums instead of being the result of skill.  But we saw an older prospect look like the more experienced hockey player that he is, we saw the offensive prodigy struggle to stay on his skates at times, and

Photos: Caps Development Camp Day 1

Monday, July 11, 2011 was the first day of Development Camp at Kettler Iceplex for the Washington Capitals. Camp will continue through Saturday, July 16 ending with Fan Fest and an intrasquad scrimmage. [DevCampGuide]

Several players talked with the media as well as Coach Bruce Boudreau, GM George McPhee and Associate Goaltending Coach Olie Kolzig. Centers Cody Eakin and Mattias Sjogren are in a

Centers Eakin and Sjogren in Battle to Impress Caps Brass

Washington Capitals general manager George McPhee said it best Monday, on opening day of the Caps summer development camp, "I think all our positions are filled and we have good depth and we're ready to go."
Coach Bruce Boudreau agreed.  "There's not a lot of holes to fill. There might be that one hole right now."
That "one hole" Boudreau referred to is his third line center.  As the NHL

Changes to Capitals Roster: Going from Finesse to Physical

GM George McPhee has been a busy guy in the last couple of weeks.
In:  Mattias Sjogren, Troy Brouwer, Jeff Halpern, Joel Ward, Roman Hamrlik and Tomas Vokoun.
Out:  Matt Bradley, Boyd Gordon, Semyon Varlamov, Tyler Sloan and Eric Fehr.  In addition to Tomas Fleischmann and David Steckel last season.  So far.
That's a quarter of the team's active roster juggled since McPhee re-upped Brooks Laich

Capitals Trade Fehr to Jets

The Washington Capitals today announced they traded winger Eric Fehr to the Winnipeg Jets in exchange for a fourth round pick in the 2012 entry draft and RW Danick Paquette.
The move clears $2.2 million off the Capitals' salary cap for the upcoming season.
Paquette, 20, had 13 goals and seven assists with 179 penalty minutes for the Gwinnett Gladiators of the ECHL last season.  He was originally

Capitals D-Camp Roster and Schedule Out

The Washington Capitals announced the roster and schedule for next week's Development Camp, held at Kettler Capitals Iceplex July 11-16. The roster is highlighted with some of the brightest prospects the organization has to offer, including forwards Mattias Sjogren and Cody Eakin and defenseman Dmitri Orlov.
The 6’2”, 214-pound Sjogren (23) spent last season with Farjestad of the Swedish Elite

Making Room for Alzner

The Washington Capitals today announced they signed winger Troy Brouwer to a two-year deal, reported to be worth $2.35 million per year.  That's certainly a reasonable contract for a guy that's scored 39 goals the last two years combined, not to mention the physical aspect he brings to the game.
That leaves the Caps with one priority: Signing Karl Alzner.
With the Brouwer signing the Caps are

McPhee Drops Another Bombshell; Inks Vokoun to One-Year Deal

Just when you thought GM George McPhee was "done" making deals this off-season, he goes off and does it again.  Mid-day Saturday, on his birthday no less, McPhee signed veteran goalie Tomas Vokoun to a one-year deal, reported to be worth $1.5 million.  It was another stunning move for an organization that has now turned over a quarter of their active roster in a week's time.
Less than 24 hours

Busy Day at Kettler

CAPITALS SIGN VETERAN FREE AGENTS HALPERN, HAMRLIK AND J.WARD
The news rolled in quicker than most people could keep up with.
Jeff Halpern returned to the team he grew up with and Boyd Gordon walked.  Then, in a shock to everyone's system, Semyon Varlamov was traded away.  There was a brief lull.  Then, all hell broke loose. 
Roman Hamrlik.  Joel Ward.  A couple of veteran scorers for Hershey. 

Capitals Trade Varlamov to Colorado

Ending their involvement in the strange saga surrounding goaltender Semyon Varlamov, the Washington Capitals traded his rights to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for Colorado's first round pick in the 2012 entry draft, plus a second round pick in either the 2012 or 2013 draft.  TSN reports the Capitals have their choice of the second round picks.
Colorado's first round pick could very well be

Capitals Bring Back Area Native Jeff Halpern

The NHL free agent frenzy started at noon today and it didn't take too long for the Washington Capitals to make a mark, signing veteran center, and Potomac, MD native, Jeff Halpern to a one-year deal, reported to be worth $825,000, according to TSN.
Halpern, who started his career with the Caps, will center the fourth line and be used as a faceoff specialist, much in the same role that UFA Boyd

Strange, Busy Days for Capitals

The last week has brought little in the way of hard news, but plenty of rumors, agent talk and innuendo surrounds the Washington Capitals as the Free Agent period is set to start tomorrow.  Let's take a look at what we've heard over the last few days.
--First off, we know Brooks Laich will be back.  He re-signed Tuesday before testing the open waters. Laich's new contract immediately sparked

Brooks Laich Remains a Capital; Signs Six-Year Deal

The Washington Capitals announced today that they re-signed forward Brooks Laich to a six-year deal, reportedly worth $27 million.  It's a bold move to retain one of the hardest-working players in the game, an integral part of this team and organization.  While the cap hit of $4.5 million per season is steep for a second-line player, he would have been one of the more attractive free agents

Capitals Acquire Brouwer from Chicago for First-Round Pick

In the days leading up to the NHL's entry draft, Washington Capitals GM George McPhee indicated on several occasions he didn't think much of this draft class.  Friday night, his actions confirmed that his words were not meant as subterfuge, as he traded the Caps first round pick, No. 26 overall, to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for 25-year old right wing Troy Brouwer.
Brouwer is a Restricted

Random Thoughts on Draft Day 2011: Draft, Flyers, Realignment

With the 26th pick in the NHL Draft tonight, it's kind of a forgone conclusion that the Washington Capitals will select Russian center Alexander Khokhlachev if available.  The skilled Russian had a terrific season for OHL Windsor last year, notching 34 goals (12 PPG) and 76 points with a plus-9 rating and in 19 playoff games he went 9-11-20...as a 17-year old. 
Other names that might be

Caps Announce 2011-2012 Regular Season Schedule

The Washington Capitals announced their 2011-12 regular season schedule today.  Pre-season schedule was announced earlier in the week.

The Washington Capitals’ 82-game regular-season schedule for 2011-12 begins on Saturday, Oct. 8 at Verizon Center versus the Carolina Hurricanes at 7 p.m., with the first road game of the campaign set for Oct. 13 against the Pittsburgh Penguins at CONSOL Energy

"Olie the Goalie" Back with Capitals

The Washington Capitals today announced that Olaf Kolzig, known as Olie the Goalie and Godzilla to legions of Caps fans, has joined the team as Associate Goaltender Coach, joining his longtime coach Dave Prior, who was announced as Director of Goaltending and NHL Goaltender Coach.
These moves were made in response to Arturs Irbe resigning for personal reasons two weeks ago.
“We are excited to add

Capitals Sign Swedish Forward Mattias Sjogren

The Caps signed Swedish forward Mattias Sjogren to an entry-level contract today, reportedly for the maximum allowed to a rookie under the CBA.  Swedish papers Expressen and Aftonbladet had it early today, and Japers Rink was the first local outlet with the story.
Sjogren is a big, physical player according to scouting reports with good international experince, and should challenge for a spot on

On the Topic of Leadership

I read with interest both On Frozen Blog's piece "Renewed Questions of Leadership" and Ed Frankovic's "Caps Off-season Focus Should Be on Leadership".  I know both these guys very well from our time in the press box together, not to mention an episode or two of working out with 12 ounce curls, and have the utmost respect for both.  Please take a moment or two to read their opinions if you haven't

Should They Stay or Should They Go?

As we slowly come out of our post-sweep funk, let's take a look at the Washington Capitals impending free agents and start the debate on whether the Caps should try to re-sign the player or part ways with them.  The Capitals have seven unrestricted free agents and two restricted (must extend "qualifying offer" to retain negotiating rights).  Ages listed for start of 2011-12 season.
Jason Arnott 

Asking the Wrong Question?

With all due respect to Japers Rink, here's my noon number:  .667.
That's the Washington Capitals winning percentage this season without Mike Green in the lineup this season.  With?  .526.
The Caps went 30-27 when Mike Green dressed for games (including playoffs) and 22-11 when he did not.
That's all.

Starting Over

It's been a little over 24 hours now since the Tampa Bay Lightning eliminated the Washington Capitals from the Stanley Cup playoffs, finishing the four-game sweep in less-than-dramatic style Wednesday night.  I haven't written anything since the game re-cap because I was still kind of raw from the whole experience and wanted a little time to reflect.
The frustration of seeing things unfold, in

GAME FOUR RE-CAP: Capitals Swept Out of Playoffs After 5-3 Loss

"I think we were expecting to have a longer series." -- Sean Bergenheim, Tampa Bay Lightning
Tampa, FL -- As had been the case in the previous three games in this series, the Washington Capitals could not find the answers to some of the Tampa Bay Lightning role players in Game Four last night and paid the ultimate price for it. Third-liner Sean Bergenheim scored a pair of goals, his sixth and

Playoff Hockey?

Who is to blame when a team of great promise does not fulfill those expectations? It's a difficult question to answer. One on hand, you can place the blame on the coaching staff, failing to get the most out of the players. On the other, you have to place responsibility on the players that take the ice of field. Ultimately, you can lay out the most intricate, elaborate game plan know to the human

GAME THREE RE-CAP: "Complacent" Capitals Give Away Game Three

"We had a lot of enthusiasm and not being scared to lose, but being hungry to win." Lightning coach Guy Boucher
Tampa, FL -- Every Washington Capitals player that faced the media said the same thing in the locker room following Tuesday night's 4-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning, putting them in a no games to three hole: "We have to be ready [in Game Four]."  The unasked question?  Why weren't

GAME TWO RE-CAP: Lightning Strike Twice Against Powerless Caps

“It was a bad change,” Coach Bruce Boudreau, on the fatal line change in overtime.
When Alex Ovechkin scored at 18:52 of the third period to tie the game at two goals apiece and to force overtime, the Verizon Center erupted to the extent it has not since Sergei Fedorov's goal to beat the New York Rangers in the seventh game of the Caps first round series in 2009.
Six minutes and nineteen seconds

GAME ONE RE-CAP: Capitals Revert to "Older Day" in Third, Fall 4-2 to Bolts

"I thought, this isn't the way we play. It was reverting back to an older day." -- Coach Bruce Boudreau, on his team's play in the third period.


The Washington Capitals excelled in the latter stages of the season and in the first round of the playoffs by playing a controlled system, playing within themselves and taking advantage of their speed and strength on offense.  For the first half of

Capitals Should Have Healthy Respect for Lightning

The Tampa Bay Lightning are a good hockey club. They have a deep and talented offense, are extremely efficient on the power play, have a veteran and tough defensive corps, employ one of the most obnoxious agitators in the game, and now have a savvy goaltender that just happens to own the Washington Capitals in his history.
Add in the fact the Lightning just bounced the Caps' arch-rivals from the

Second Round Projections

As they did for the first round, NBCWashington.com assembled some of the finest hockey minds in D.C. (and us) and asked them to make some projections about the Washington Capitals second round matchup with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
As you'd expect, most predict the Caps will win the series, but there are certainly some interesting thoughts as to the keys to the series and matchups that bear

Schedule Set for Second Round

The Washington Capitals will face Southeast Division rival Tampa Bay Lightning in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, starting Friday night at 7:00 pm from Verizon Center.  There is a noticeable quirk in the schedule: back-to-back games in Tampa next Tuesday and Wednesday, due to the University of South Florida graduation ceremonies to be held at the St. Pete Times Forum on Thursday.
Here's the

Neuvirth Confident Heading Into Second Round; Practice Updates

ROOKIE GOALIE PLAYED EVERY MINUTE IN FIRST ROUND
Plenty has been written -- at least in the D.C. market -- about Washington Capitals goalie Michal Neuvirth after his fairly spectacular performance in the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals win over the New York Rangers.  But the young goaltender himself isn't paying attention to any of that right now. 
"It's pretty nice, you know, but I'm just

Growing One for the Cause

I've finally registered for Beard-a-thon, sponsored by the the Capitals and NHL.com.
You can find my profile here if you'd like to support the cause, the Fort Dupont Hockey Club.  Here's a description of the mission:  Washington Capitals Charities will be donating all proceeds from the 2011 Beard-A-Thon to Friends of Fort Dupont Ice Arena. Fort Dupont is the only public indoor ice arena located

GAME FIVE RE-CAP: Capitals Send Rangers Packing with 3-1 Win

“It was a great game by us. A great performance. We played a good 60 minutes. We didn’t allow them too many chances. Neuvy played great tonight. It was a great effort by everybody.” -- Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom.


Ovi celebrates the second goal of the game for the Caps. (C.Nichols/Caps News Network).

In the end, this was simply the culmination of a dominant team over a lesser opponent. 

Failures of Past Not Applicable to Team of Present

"I don't remember nothing." -- Alex Ovechkin's recollection of Game Five vs. Montreal in 2010.
There are plenty of stories being written today from all the different media outlets about the Washington Capitals playoff failures, especially when they've held a three games to one lead in their history, as they do currently over the New York Rangers.  I suppose, in its own way, this column is one of

GAME FOUR RE-CAP: Caps Comeback Ends with Double-Overtime Thriller

So, where shall we begin?
Ultimately, the only thing about this game that matters was the final score, with the Washington Capitals defeating the New York Rangers 4-3 more than halfway through the second overtime period to take a three games to one lead in their best-of-seven Eastern Conference Semi-final matchup.
But man, how they got there?  That will be the stuff of legends and lifetime

GAME FOUR PREVIEW: Knuble Out?

Tonight at 7:30 pm, Bruce Boudreau faces off against legions of New Yorkers defending their decrepit basketball arena.
Oh, I'm sorry.  There actually is a hockey game to be played.
The Washington Capitals lead the New York Rangers two games to one in their best-of-seven game series, but all anyone is talking about in the media -- both New York and D.C. -- is Boudreau's comments regarding fabled

Staal Hit on Green: Lobbying or Legitimate Gripe?

Washington Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau went on record this morning after today's very optional practice at Kettler Capitals Iceplex that Marc Staal's hit on Mike Green -- just before Alex Ovechkin's goal late in the second period of Sunday's 3-2 loss to the New York Rangers -- was a dirty hit and targeted Green's head, only three games returned from a lengthy absence due to concussion symptoms

GAME THREE RE-CAP: Rangers Take Play to Caps in 3-2 Win

There were a lot of factors that contributed to the Washington Capitals losing to the New York Rangers, 3-2, on Sunday before a packed house at Madison Square Garden.
If you're into conspiracy theories, this one was a doozy.  The Capitals were whistled for eight infractions to the Rangers four, including a couple of "Where was the penalty there?" calls.  The game winning goal was scored while the

GAME TWO RE-CAP: Captials Dominate Blueshirts, Take 2-0 Series Lead

Caps celebrate Jason Arnott's power play goal. (C.Nichols/Caps News Network)

Forgive an old hand for feeling good about a win.
The Washington Capitals got goals from Jason Chimera and Jason Arnott, and Michal Neuvirth turned away all 22 New York Rangers shots en route to a 2-0 win in Game Two, propelling the Caps to a 2-0 First Round series lead.
The affair resumes Sunday at 3:00 pm at

"Old Caps" Trigger Game-Winning Goal

If you watch a lot of hockey, you already know that playoff hockey is different than regular season hockey. 
Perhaps more than any other sport, the game transitions from one of preservation and artistry into a sacrifice at all costs, knock-down, bare knuckles, shot-blocking, tight-checking affair that elevates players like Karl Alzner and Dan Girardi into superstars while open ice snipers like

GAME ONE RE-CAP: Overtime In Game One? Of Course

No one said this would be easy.
The Washington Capitals finished first in the Eastern Conference.  The New York Rangers barely qualified for the eighth seed. But as is common in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, you can throw the records out the door.
Most prognosticators, including national media, expect this first round series to be a tooth and nail affair, with the winner escaping by the narrowist of

"Redskins Mentality" to Covering the Capitals

Yesterday, Tony Kornheiser had Washington Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau on his radio show from 10:15 am - 10:25 am, just before the coach took the ice for his team's 10:30 am practice at Kettler Capitals Iceplex for their last serious practice before Game One of their first round match against the New York Rangers. 
Mr. Tony talked to Boudreau about everything -- and anything -- but hockey.  And

Another Caps Playoff Roundtable

We'll have some personal comments Wednesday about the Capitals, the playoffs and the psyche of America's Hockey Capital.
But for now, Caps News Network was invited to participate in a playoff roundtable by NBCWashington.com with some of the brightest hockey minds D.C. has to offer. And some other guys too.
Seriously, we were honored to be asked to be part of the discussion, and there were some

Caps Rap 2 feat. Our Photography

Andrew Bowser, who produced the wildly popular "Caps Rap", is back with a follow-up, "Caps Rap 2", featuring the the photography of Caps News Network's Cheryl Nichols.
Here's the link to CSNWashington.com, where the video is posted.

Capitals-Rangers First Round Schedule Set

The NHL announced the schedule for the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs Sunday night.  As expected, the Washington Capitals will face the New York Rangers on Wednesday, Apr. 13 at 7:30 pm for Game One, to be broadcast on Versus.
The Caps and Rangers then play Game Two Friday, Apr. 15 at 7:30 pm, again on Versus.  Both Game One and Game Two will be in Washington at the Verizon Center.
The

GAME 82 RE-CAP: Caps Avoid Injury in 1-0 Loss to Florida; Face Rangers in First Round

The Washington Capitals and the Florida Panthers played a game last night in Sunrise, FL that did not matter.  Sure, it will go in the books as a 1-0 win for the home team, but the result was meaningless.
The Panthers, with the fewest points in the Eastern Conference, lost out on their chance at the second season weeks ago.  And the Caps had already sewn up the top spot for the second season in a

#GoalieWars

So over on Twitter today there's been raging debate on who folks think Bruce Boudreau should go with in goal for the Washington Capitals for Game One in the playoffs.  Essentially, who is this team's playoff goalie?
Japers' Rink asked the question today too, and provided the stats for an analytical approach to evaluating the decision.
Does Boudreau go with Michal Neuvirth, who the Caps have

GAME 81 RE-CAP: Caps Punish Panthers in Last Regular Season Home Game

by Cheryl Nichols

The 2010-2011 Southeast Division Champion Washington Capitals hosted the Florida Panthers for the last regular season game at the Verizon Center.  The Caps wrapped up Fan Appreciation Week with a 5-2 win over the Panthers.

The Caps jumped on Florida early with two power play goals in the first period, and made sure they stayed down, adding two more before garbage time late in

GAME 80 RE-CAP: Caps Outlast Leafs in Shootout, Clinch SE Division

The playoff scenarios are still wildly in flux, but one thing now is for certain.  The Washington Capitals will hold one of the top three seeds in the Eastern Conference, courtesy of their fourth straight Southeast Division title, after defeating the Toronto Maple Leafs 3-2 in a shootout before a capacity crowd at Air Canada Centre.
Mike Knuble, the fourth shooter for the Caps, scored the only

Honored

We found out this morning that Caps News Network was nominated as "Best Sports Journalist on Twitter" in D.C.

We are truly honored to be included with such good company.

We have the utmost respect for all of these folks and count many of them as personal friends.

Please visit the link to check out the poll, and please visit the websites of all the nominees.  They all do tremendous work,

GAME 78 RE-CAP: Chimera Lifts Caps Over Old Mates in Overtime

Jason Chimera, right, taps in game-winner for the Caps (C.Nichols/Caps News Network)
“Sometimes when we get a lead so early we kind of settle in instead of keep pushing the pace and that was a classic example of what we did tonight."  John Carlson
You got the sense, after a first period where the Washington Capitals took a 1-0 lead and outshot the out-of-the-playoffs Columbus Blue Jackets 15-4,

GAME 77 RE-CAP: Caps Can't Match Desperate Canes Intensity

“I thought at times it was a very lackluster game. If you don’t play with emotion, it’s tough.” -- Coach Bruce Boudreau.
There are no shootouts in the playoffs, but the way this game went, it should not have gotten that far anyway.
Rookie All-Star Jeff Skinner threw a harmless looking shot toward Washington Capital goalie Semyon Varlamov 1:46 into the third period which inexplicably escaped the

GAME 74 RE-CAP: Caps Clinch Playoff Spot with Shootout Winner in Philly

Um, allow me to catch my breath.
When noted antagonist Daniel Briere completed the comeback for the Philadelphia Flyers, taking a 4-3 lead with just 5:45 left in the game after his team trailed 3-0 just into the second period, the collective soul of the Washington Capitals -- and their fan base -- had every right to be crushed, dejected and exhausted.
But a little over two minutes later, a young

Caps to Face Flyers Sans Ovechkin

The Washington Capitals have decided to shelve Alex Ovechkin, their captain and leading scorer, for 7-to-10 days to rest an unidentified upper body ailment.  Ovechkin joins the ranks of Mike Green, Eric Fehr, Jason Arnott, Tom Poti and John Erskine -- stalwarts all -- on the Caps injury list.
It's no secret Ovechkin has nursed a wrist/hand injury all season long.  Back in early January, the Great

Capitals Success Dependent on Contribuions of Rookies

Entering play against the New Jersey Devils Friday night, the Washington Capitals led the NHL in minutes played by rookies this season.  It's not an insignificant statistic, as the Caps are now in a three-way tie for second most points in the league and preparing for the Stanley Cup playoffs.
It's fairly remarkable that a team that is relying so heavily on first year players -- and struggled so

GAME 73 RE-CAP: Czech Mate

There are five elements of goaltending: 1. Agility.2. Glove.3. Technique.4. Head.5. Health.Michal Neuvirth used all of these elements to his advantage Friday night, shutting out the red-hot New Jersey Devils 3-0, giving them their second consecutive loss and just about killing any remaining hope for the team from the swamps to complete their dramatic comeback attempt for a playoff spot.
Neuvirth,

GAME 72 RE-CAP: One Streak Ends...

The Washington Capitals saw their nine-game winning streak (and six-game road streak) snapped last night at the hands of the Detroit Red Wings, 3-2, in a lively, entertaining game before 20,066 at Joe Louis Arena.
The Caps and Wings played even for most of the night, but with Mike Knuble in the box for tripping midway through the third period, Henrik Zetterberg got his second goal of the night,

GAME 71 RE-CAP: MoJo Risin', Caps Win Ninth Straight

Every game the rest of the regular season is going to present the Washington Capitals with a chance to move up or down in the Eastern Conference standings.  But no team in hockey is on more of a roll, as the Caps won their ninth straight game overall -- and a team record sixth on a row on the road -- in a 4-2 win over last year's playoff nemesis Montreal Canadiens before a raucous crowd at the

GAME 68 RE-CAP: Caps Win Sixth Straight as Holtby Shuts Out Oilers

The Washington Capitals needed a game like this.
Before another capacity crowd, the Capitals finally looked like, well, the Capitals, unleashing a 5-0 shutout on the unsuspecting Edmonton Oilers, winning their sixth straight game in the process.  It's the first time since Jan. 14 the Caps have won by more than one goal.
Rookie Braden Holtby, making his tenth NHL start, blanked the

GAME 67 RE-CAP: Caps Outlast Bolts, Inch Closer to Top of Eastern Conference

Braden Holtby and the Caps celebrate a 2-1 shootout win over Tampa Bay. (C.Nichols/Caps News Network)
Don't let anyone fool you.  The Washington Capitals want to win the Southeast Division.  It's a source of pride with them, throughout the organization.  They pay lip service to the idea of making the playoffs and wanting a good seed, etc.  But they believe the Southeast Division banner belongs

GAME 66 RE-CAP: Semin Saves Father's Day



Dennis Wideman celebrates Alexander Semin's game winner against his former mates. (C.Nichols/Caps News Network)
The Washington Capitals, with their fathers and mentors on hand for the annual "Father's Trip", came to south Florida knowing that a win would give them possession of first place in the Southeast Division and draw them within four points of the Philadelphia Flyers for the top spot

GAME 65 RE-CAP: Caps Get Big Win Heading Into Statement Weekend

"You know, our fans deserve a better effort than what we've been giving them lately. Tonight we had some rough patches, but I think we played pretty well" -- Matt Bradley 
The Washington Capitals did not play particularly well last night, but they did play well enough to defeat an offensively challenged St. Louis Blues team 3-2, before another sold out crowd at Verizon Center.  Coupled with the

Captials Trade Deadline Special on 106.7 The Fan

If you still haven't had enough of the activity surrounding the 2011 NHL trade deadline and the impact the acquisitions GM George McPhee made for the Washington Capitals, check out 106.7 The Fan's Caps Trade Deadline Special.
We were invited to participate, as were fellow bloggers and media members John Keeley from On Frozen Blog, Ted Starkey from The Washington Times, Brian McNally from the

Arnott's Perspective -- on Chemistry and New Linemates -- In His Words

Jason Arnott in his Washington Capitals debut. (C.Nichols/Caps News Network)
Jason Arnott, acquired at the trade deadline to help spur the Washington Capitals as they head down the stretch, said some things from the locker room last night that were very interesting, considering it was his first game with his new team. 
He addressed the topic of his linemates tonight: Brooks Laich and especially

GAME 64 RE-CAP: Caps Turn Loud Boos to Rousing Cheers with OT Win

"It's extremely disappointing to lose it in the last 47 seconds.  We battled so hard for 59 minutes.  To come away with just one point in unacceptable."  --New York Islanders goalie Nathan Lawson, who came into the game with a save percentage under 89 percent.
The Washington Capitals got out of the gate early and dominated the first ten minutes of the game with a lineup infused with three

Capitals Add Depth, Experience at Trade Deadline

"We're really happy with what we've acquired.  We've addressed specific needs that we had and they're all good, experienced veteran players." -GM George McPhee.
The Washington Capitals -- as expected -- were busy at the trade deadline, acquiring center Jason Arnott from the New Jersey Devils and defenseman Dennis Wideman from their division-rival Florida Panthers.  Both moves address positions of

Capitals Trade for Dennis Wideman: Other Moves Coming?

The Washington Capitals earlier today traded for puck-moving defenseman Dennis Wideman, formerly of the Florida Panthers, in exchange for minor league forward Jake Hauswirth and their 2011 third round pick.
Wideman, 27, has 33 points (9 goals, 24 assists) this year for the Panthers in 61 games.  He will wear No. 6 for the Caps.
The veteran defender gives the Caps another two-way defenseman and

GAME 63 RE-CAP: Caps Bounce Back with Win on the Island on Busy Day

After a hectic day of waiver claims, roster shuffling, mysterious injuries and healthy scratches, the Washington Capitals actually took care of business, shrugging off a lackadaisical first period and storming back from a 2-0 deficit to knock off a young, energetic New York Islanders crew 3-2 before 16,250 at Nassau County Colosseum, the Islanders' biggest home crowd of the season.
There were

Caps Claim Sturm off Waivers; Other Roster Updates

Earlier today, the Washington Capitals claimed veteran winger Marco Sturm off waivers from the Los Angeles Kings.  The speedy, defensively responsible Sturm recently returned to action after missing a good chunk of the season with a knee injury. 
He has four goals and five assists in 17 games played for the Kings this season.
Sturm, 32, is a 13 year NHL veteran of three teams, and has been a 

GAME 62 RE-CAP: No Escape From New York

"The worst home loss I've been associated with." Coach Bruce Boudreau.
THE RESULT:  Just as in their last meeting between these two teams, the New York Rangers dominated the Washington Capitals in all facets of the game and handed the home team its worst loss in its own building since November of 2006, a 6-0 shutout that wasn't even as close as the score.
The Caps essentially gave up on this game

Hendy Re-Signs: Winners and Losers

Forward Matt Hendricks signed a two-year contract extension with the Washington Capitals today, worth a reported $1.6 million.  We evaluate the winners and losers!
WINNERS
Matt Hendricks, obviously.  The two-year extension finally gives the 29-year old something he's never had in his playing career: stability.
GM George McPhee.  He locks up a player that has become part of the heart and soul of

Edmonton Wanted to Know: "What's Wrong with Ovi?"

Jim Kerr of Edmonton's iNews 880 asked if I would be gracious enough to answer a couple questions about Alex Ovechkin, the season he's had thus far, the Washington Capitals struggle on the power play, and Ovi's leadership in the locker room.
Essentially, he wanted to know "What's Wrong with Ovi?"
Here's a snippet:  Dave Nichols with the Capitals News Network says a number of things come into play

GAME 61 RE-CAP: "Shaky" Shuts Out Penguins Yet Again

"He was pretty good." Coach Bruce Boudreau stating the obvious about his goalie.
The Washington Capitals are starting to serve notice.
In front of another national television audience, the team that was the highest scoring squad in the league last season showed their new commitment to playing a more defensively sound game. 
For the third time on a now-concluded five-game road trip, the Caps

GAME 60 RE-CAP: Solid Effort Nets Two Points in Buffalo

"We had to persevere if we were to succeed." Coach Bruce Boudreau on tough 2-1 win over Buffalo.
THE RESULT: The Washington Capitals have been getting outscored lately in the third period of games, but they reversed that trend Sunday afternoon, as a late tally broke a 1-1 tie and gave the Caps a road victory over the Buffalo Sabres, 2-1 before 18,690 in HSBC Arena and an NBC national television

Caps Fans Entitled to Stanley Cup?

I don't read every single word written about the Capitals -- by the pros, blogs or fans -- but I have to come close.  Yes, I read *almost* every last comment on all the blogs.
What gets me is the sense of entitlement some fans have, like they expect the Capitals to win the Stanley Cup for them, personally, and anything less is failure.  I think that a certain segment of the fan base just doesn't

GAME 58 RE-CAP: Caps Find Goals -- and Passion -- on Wild Night in Anaheim

The IIHF's new rules on the spelling of Russian surnames hasn't taken effect yet in the NHL, but whether you spell it Semin, Syomin, or just plain Sasha, the enigmatic Russian had one of those night, tallying three times in a Washington Capitals 7-6 win over the Anaheim Ducks, winners of eight of their last ten games entering play.
As a result, the Capitals inched past Montreal for fifth place in

Be Careful What You Wish For

"Playoff Hockey" is here.
You want tense, tight, low scoring games?  You got 'em, in spades.
You want defensive battles where one mistake can cost you the game?  Have them too.  Ask John Erskine about last night's 3-2 loss to the Phoenix Coyotes.
You want exciting, thrilling, high-speed hockey?  The kind that packed the Verizon Center last season as the Washington Capitals were en route to the

GAME 56 RE-CAP: Talent Means Nothing Without Effort

"For whatever reason, we stopped working.  We got comfortable -- a little too comfortable." -- Karl Alzner
Just over one minute into the game, Alex Ovechkin gave the Washington Capitals a 1-0 lead as he used All-Star defenseman Drew Doughty as a screen at the top of the face-off circle and beat Los Angeles Kings' backup goalie Jonathan Bernier for his 21st goal of the season.
That was the peak of

GAME 55 RE-CAP: Lack of Offense Leads to Loss

"If you play for one run, that's all you'll get." 
Long-time Baltimore Orioles manager Earl Weaver said that in his book, Weaver on Strategy.  He's of course referring to baseball, but I think that little gem applies to what the Washington Capitals are going through right now, and last night's 2-0 loss to the San Jose Sharks in particular.
The Caps, still mired in an epic scoring drought from

Ewell Leaves Legacy in Caps Press Box

Today is Nate Ewell's last game as Vice President of Communications with the Washington Capitals.  It's a position that lives in obscurity in most hockey towns: writing game notes, ushering players to media appearances, doling out press credentials. 
But in D.C., Nate Ewell is a rock star.
It wasn't his intent.  You can read a very well written biography and appreciation of Nate here and here. 

GAME 54 RE-CAP: Capitals Shut Out Cowardly Penguins

"They don't like us. We don't like them.  That's the way it should be." -- Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau
THE RESULT:  The Washington Capitals dominated their arch-rivals on defense, shutting out the formerly high-scoring Pittsburgh Penguins 3-0 on Super Bowl Sunday.  It was Washington's eighth straight win on "Super Sunday" and improves their career line to 14-3-1 on the big day.


Caps goalie

Bradley and Hendricks' Energy Set Tone for Capitals Win Over Lightning

Matt Bradley and Matt Hendricks will both tell you they aren't the most gifted players in the Washington Capitals dressing room.  That's not to say they aren't capable of chipping with a goal now and then, but the two have combined for 71 goals over 13 NHL seasons, so it's not their offense that's keeping them in the league.
Rather, it's their intensity, their emotion, their willingness to stick

GAME 53 RE-CAP: Ovechkin, Backstrom Lead the Way Against Bolts

THE RESULTS: The Tampa Bay Lightning put a Matt Bradley quote about this being the Washington Capitals' biggest game of the year up on their white board in their dressing room in motivation for last night's big Southeast Division showdown.
It didn't help much.
The Caps roared out to a 3-1 lead mid-way through the second period, and added two more goals in the third to inch a little closer to the

GAME 52 REVIEW: Caps Make Mistakes, Lose Opportunity and Shootout to Habs

THE RESULT: In the first game back from the All-Star break, the Washington Capitals came out guns blazing, scoring twice in the first period and looking like the team that won the President's Trophy last season as the top team in the league.
The rest of the game however, they fell back into the same uninspired, lackadaisical play that has plagued them since Dec. 1, allowing Brian Gionta and the

Caps Getting Their Legs Back After All-Star Break

Yesterday at practice, I caught up with a few of the Caps that missed some significant time due to injury that have returned recently, only to then sit again during the four-day All-Star game break.
Jeff Schultz:  "It felt good to be out there but the legs and wind aren't quite where they were, but it was a good four days that guys use to rest, the heal some bumps and bruises.  We'll have a good

GAME 50 RE-CAP: Disappointed Capitals Fall to Rangers in Shootout

"We've got to figure out ways to get to that net and find some dirty, ugly goals." --Matt Hendricks, who was the only Capital player to take that advice to heart.


Caps console goalie Braden Holtby after 2-1shootout loss. (C.Nichols/CapsNewsNetwork)

THE RESULT:  The Washington Capitals allowed a depleted, offensive-starved New York Rangers team to come into their building with their back-up

GAME 49 RE-CAP: OVECHTRICK!

THE RESULT:  The Washington Capitals rose to the occasion of "Hockey Night in Canada", with their superstar recording his first hat trick of the season en route to a 4-1 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs at Air Canada Center.
The Caps third baby goalie, Braden Holtby, was spectacular, making several "how did he do that" saves and kept his team in the game until they were able to break out in

GAME 48 RE-CAP: Backstrom Finds Mean Streak, Caps Dump Islanders

"I almost forgot how it was to score a goal." Nicklas Backstrom, obviously relieved his 21-game goal-less streak is over.
THE RESULT:  The last time Nicklas Backstrom scored an NHL goal was Dec. 1 in a 4-1 win over the St. Louis Blues.  It was the Washington Capitals fourth straight win and their record was 18-6-2, good for first in the Eastern Conference.
The HBO cameras had not yet arrived. 

Caps Face Pair of Must Win Games Against Least of the East

It's only mid-January, but the Washington Capitals are already facing a pivotal juncture in their season.  Their next two games, against two of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference are, for all intents and purposes, Must Win Games.
Tonight, the Caps skate into the Nassau Coliseum to take on the New York Islanders, one of the most down-trodden, talent-poor, financially strapped teams in all

Holtby Recalled from Hershey

The Washington Capitals have recalled Braden Holtby from Hershey Bears of the American Hockey League (AHL).  Mike Vogel reported that Michal Neuvirth was returned to DC for further evaluation.



Photo 2010 © Cheryl Nichols Photography/
Capitals News Network. All Rights Reserved.

GAME 47 RE-CAP: Lather, Rinse, Repeat: Caps Get Down Early, Lose in OT

"It's not like a secret." Bruce Boudreau, on getting goals around the net.
THE RESULT: In an all too familiar refrain, the Washington Capitals found themselves trailing after two periods of play, on the road against the Eastern Conference leading Philadelphia Flyers.
In 40 seconds worth of hard work in the third, the Caps tied the game up and looked to be carrying all the momentum into overtime.

GAME 46 RE-CAP: Third Period Outburst Propels Caps to 3-1 Win Over Ottawa

"I just said, quite frankly, I hope they realized how important this period is to our season." Coach Bruce Boudreau, on what he told his team at the second intermission.



Nick Backstrom and Marcus Johansson help John Carlson celebrate his power play goal. (C.Nichols/Caps News Network)
THE RESULTS: The Washington Capitals, struggling for six weeks now scoring goals, found themselves trailing 1-0

GAME 45 RE-CAP: What's Wrong with the Washington Capitals?

THE RESULT:  It would be easy to say that one of the best teams in the National Hockey League came into D.C. on a roll and took advantage of a Washington Capitals team that is struggling to score goals, both five-on-five and on the power play.
While that statement is true and accurate, the Caps 4-2 loss to the Vancouver Canucks, who Thursday night had a 17-game point streak snapped, was also just

Caps Face Canucks as Underdog; Bradley Update; Ewell Steps Down

The Washington Capitals have played this season with a target on their backs as the reigning President's Trophy winner.  Tonight's opponent, the Vancouver Canucks, come into Verizon Center with the league's best record, and a 17-game point streak broken last night by the New York Rangers.
I canvassed the locker room this morning, asking how the Caps feel playing the role of underdog against a

GAME 44 RE-CAP: Bolts Blank Caps Again, Take SE Lead

THE RESULT:  For the second time in a week, 41-year old goalie Dwayne Roloson shut out the Washington Capitals, leading his Tampa Bay Lightning to a 3-0 win, securing first place in the Southeast Division for the time being.
The loss is the fifth time the Caps have been shut out in their last 25 games.
Domonic Moore, Sean Bergenheim and Simon Gagne scored for the Lightning, who own the top spot

GAME 43 RE-CAP: Capitals Salvage Point in 4-3 OT Loss to Florida

THE RESULTS: The Washington Capitals took too many penalties, went 0-for-5 on the power play, and was indifferent on defense too many times, as they fell behind early, rallied furiously, but fell in overtime to the Florida Panthers 4-3 before a sparse crowd in Sunrise, FL.
"If we're going to look this lethargic on the power play, that's where we are losing games," coach Bruce Boudreau said. "It's

Ovechkin, Green Invited to NHL All-Star Game

The NHL announced today the list of players that will be available in the first ever All-Star team draft, and Alex Ovechkin and Mike Green of the Washington Capitals were both invited to participate.
In what has been a down year goal-scoring wise for Ovechkin, he is still tied for 11th in the league and leads the Caps in points (15-29-44, plus-10).  This is his fourth All-Star selection.
Green (8

Caps Casino Night Photos

Check out all of the fun photos of Caps Casino Night on the Caps News Network "Off the Ice" page.



Photos 2010 © Cheryl Nichols Photography/Caps News Network. All Rights Reserved.

GAME 42 RE-CAP: Flying Ovechkin Strikes in Caps 3-2 Win Over Panthers

THE RESULT:  As has been the case most of the time on the current run of success for the Washington Capitals, this one didn't come easy.  But the Caps held on at the end to defeat a tired--but game--Florida Panthers team 3-2, before a capacity crowd at Verizon Center.

Florida was playing their third game in four nights and fifth in seven days.  The Caps had not played since Tuesday night's 1-0

Adjusting to The Trap--The Players' Reactions

Earlier this week, CBC columnist Elliotte Friedman devoted several paragraphs to Washington Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau implementing elements of the trap into his systems.  It's worth the read as a set-up to this column.
At practice this week, I had a chance to catch up with several Caps players to ask them about the adjustments that have been made to the system and the challenge implementing

McPhee: Winter Classic "Seminal Moment" For Caps Franchise

After practice this morning, Washington Capitals GM George McPhee candidly spoke with reporters about the World Junior Championships, HBO's 24/7 and the Winter Classic.
ON THE WINTER CLASSIC
"On a personal standpoint, it may be the most fun I've ever had as a manager and maybe the most fun I've ever had in my hockey life. It was just a fabulous experience, it was sort of a 'Field of Dreams' thing

Updates from Thursday Morning Practice

There were a couple of medical updates from Capitals practice this morning:

Alex Ovechkin wore a yellow "non-contact" jersey this morning. He shadowed the top line of Alexander Semin, Nick Backstrom and Mike Knuble, but did not participate in drills. He avoided holding his stick with his left hand.

After practice, coach Bruce Boudreau revealed that Ovechkin had a cortisone shot following the 1

GAME 41 RE-CAP: OT Breakdown Cost Caps Point Against Lightning

THE RESULT: Two of the top scoring teams in the league played to a scoreless draw through sixty minutes.  Both teams played gritty, tight checking defense and their goalies played superbly as one would imagine in a 0-0 tie.
But breakdowns by all five players in red led to the Tampa Bay Lightning netting the game-winner two minutes into extra time, and the visitors took the extra point from the

This Was a Dirty Hit?

Go here and look at it for yourself.


It looks to me like Crosby stopped skating and was looking for the end of the period, not at where he was on the ice.
It looks to me like Steckel is leaning forward skating hard to get back into the play.
It looks to me like Steckel even tried to avoid the collision altogether, as he is left arm is away from his body for balance before the contact is even

GAME 40 RE-CAP: Just Another Two Points

THE RESULT:  Just another two points?  Not even close.
It was game that Bruce Boudreau said was "as close to the Stanley Cup as we've gotten" in atmosphere.  "When you see [65,000-plus] people in there -- whether they are booing or cheering -- it's an experince I'll never forget."
"It was more than just a game to everybody.  Don't let anybody fool you."
The official ledger will say the Washington

Winter Classic Photos

Here is a quick sample of our photos from the weekend - 4 photos of Ovechkin's "trip over the blue line." There will be more posted in near future. Not too bad from the upper deck (without my 70-200mm telelphoto lens!).





It looks like Dupuis is trying to slam Ovi's head onto the ice!
Photos 2010 © Cheryl Nichols Photography/Caps News Network. All Rights Reserved.