I am happy to begin this article with the good news that the Washington Capitals have won the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs defeating the New York Rangers in 5 games. Game #4 said it all, where at Madison Square Gardens, the home ice of the Rangers; the Caps came from behind down 3-0 to win 4-3 in a thrilling double overtime.
For me, the series had 3 highlights. Goaltender Michael Neuvirth was the outstanding player with 1 shutout and only allowing 5 goals in 5 games. The special teams were excellent also. The penalty killers allowed only 1 goal in 22 attempts by the Rangers power play. Finally, Alex Ovechkin’s leadership shone throughout the 5 games and he scored 3 goals including the winner in game 2.
As this goes to press we don’t know whom the Caps will be up against for the second series. Regardless, the key to winning will still be goal tending and special teams.
The Caps depth is still their overall strength. Even minus stars Mike Knuble, Mike Green and Dennis Wideman who were injured in the first round, the Caps won rather handily. It is still undecided if these 3 will be available for round two, but if they are, it will certainly strengthen the team even more.
Watch the defense in the next series. As a defenseman myself, I alway watch for young players who mature early in their careers. Karl Alzner and John Carlson are displaying this maturity and are true leaders on the ice at ages 20 and 22. Carlson is playing as much as 26 minutes a game and I believe is a future All Star. Further more, Mike Green is a superb defenseman and when healthy can be the best defenseman in he league. He is the leader on the power play and can be the fourth forward on the ice with his offensive, defensive style.
The Caps, having won their first round in only 5 games have to wait several days for the next series to begin. Having a long break between series has its pluses and minuses. The extra time is golden for injured players, however, momentum and concentration can get lost. This is where a good coach, and I believe that Boudreau is one, has to be the leader to keep the players focused on the ultimate goal…the Stanley Cup.
The will to win will ultimately bring the Cup to Washington. The big win in game 4 against the Rangers proved to me that they have the passion and desire. They never quit. GO CAPS!
Watson is a 17 year NHL veteran, Capitals Star Defenseman and owner of Bugsy’s Pizza in Old Town Alexandria.
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