Last night was one of the few times this year that when we went down 1-0, I felt we could and would come back to battle and win the game. The team is developing some heart and character to go along with its talent. That is a small positive step and sign for us. Learning how to win and come from behind against a good team that is very defensive-minded is an incremental positive step for our team this year. I would love for our team to have that
Ted's Take
Backstrom is blossoming. Semin appears close to breaking out. And isn’t it encouraging to beat a good team with no goals from Ovechkin? That’s a GOOD sign! (Keep in mind: Alex drew a penalty that lead to Backstrom’s PP goal and assisted on Schultz’s goal. The great ones can make you winners WITHOUT scoring every night.)
Yesterday was an awesome awesome game. Please Ted, keep Bruce, he’s becoming a legend.
Could not agree with you more. I believe that the Caps are turning the corner and everyone better watch out!!
The 2nd period was the most one-sided, Capitals’ dominated period, that I have seen all season. Start to finish was solid, but the 2nd period was near perfection.
Last night the team got the “breaks” going their way because, as my Dad used to tell me, “Good luck is the residue of hard work”. Fifty-two more games for the squad to work hard, and win. Let’s Go Caps!
Mr. Leonsis,
You said a key buzz word in your post… “grind.” Well said. Perhaps the next word the Caps need to learn is “intensity.” (I’m not being facetious, just something to take on.) I like to consider myself a partial season ticket holder (I have a very busy schedule, season tickets are not a good route, but the Caps offer the flex six packs, and I have purchased 2 of those, plus a few extra games, awesome idea by the Caps by the way) and I have to admit, last night was awesome. The Caps “grinded” out a win. It seemed that during the second period the Devils never left their own zone. Whatever Boudreau said or did to get some kick into these guys worked, at least during last night’s game. I’ve never seen so much grind and intensity coming out of these guys. I do hope this is a sign of good things to come, the forecheck works as is proven by that win, and I’m sure many more to follow. On one last side note, I am curious as to the status of Ovechkin’s future. I’m not going to lie, he is one of the main reasons (I can possibly speak for other fans as well) I purchase the tickets I do. He brings goals and fans. I know he will be expensive next year, but an investment well worth it. Please let me know, if possible. Thank you
Last night was a great team effort from everyone. The initial goal that put the Devils up 1-0 wasn’t so much of a misplay by the Caps, but of three top-notch players making a play.
The second period last night was possibly the best period the Caps have played all season. Sutter said his team played brutally (they did), but the Caps took advantage and popped in 2 goals, and if not for a good game by Weekes, could have had 4 or 5 goals.
All in all an outstanding effort, although this needs to continue as the rest of the homestand doesn’t get any easier (Rangers, Sabres) followed by a trip to Tampa and Detroit…
But so far, with what’s happening, I like what I see.