But I actually think our goaltending will be a strength this season.
I believe our goaltenders will rise to the opportunity granted to them. They are young, talented and hungry and it is now “their time.” We are loaded at the position. We need to stay healthy but I am happy that we are playing the kids.
I disagree with the thesis of this article.
There is validity in the concern expressed. We must give the goaltenders a little help with good, solid defense. They can not do the work alone. Looking forward to an awesome season! Last night even my three-year-old grandson said, “….but Grandma, hockey season is still so far away.” Thank goodness for the season highlights DVD set!
You’re right, Ted. That does sound crazy.
While I think that top end goalies are overvalued in today’s NHL, I do think it’s risky to go with two guys as young as Varlamov & Neuvirth.
One of them could have a Niemi or Mason moment. But, with Sabourin as the organizational #3, I do believe that the Caps are operating a bit without a safety net this year.
Speaking of Niemi, I wonder if a team like the Caps could entice him to sign a cheap one year deal that allows him to hit the market again next summer as a RFA with arbitration rights?
Agree fully, Ted – Varly and Neuvy have both shown what they can do, and the tandem reminds me so much of the Parent/Favell duo that took the Flyers to consecutive Stanley Cups in the mid-70s. Now, if we had just one more “bully” on the blueline to give ‘em a little protection. . .
I’m sick of people using the term “make or break season” when referring to any Capital, save for maybe Matt Bradley or Mike Knuble. Varlamov is 22 years old. Jimmy Howard was atrocious until he was 25. If Varly gets hurt and doesn’t play this season, do we cut him? No. Likewise, if he struggles and we bring in outside help, do we cut him? No. Why? BECAUSE HE’S TWENTY TWO YEARS OLD. If he was in his late 20s or early 30s I could understand it being a “make or break season,” but Varly is here to stay for a while unless we get a tremendous trade offer.
I think time will tell if goaltending is truly a strength for the Capitals. Varlamov has been injured and inconsistent, while Neuvirth still has to prove he can play everyday at the NHL level. Time will tell.
Hey Mr. Leonsis
I know the CAPS will have a great year and I’m looking forward to the CAPS going all the way.
You’re not alone in your thinking. You have a veteran-loaded offense that will go to great lengths to take the pressure of the defense and goalies. Your biggest concern is to make sure the netminders are comfortable on the ice and in DC. Stress doesn’t help a situation.
The only way to find out if the kids are “Ken Dryden” or “What’s His Name?” is to play them. As long as we get one more than the other team, who cares?
They are both playing for a contract so I fully agree with you. It isnt like they have all the money like Albert Haynesworth up front. Your on to something to say it could be a strength. Neuvy will play out of his mind like he did in Game 6 of the Calder Cup Championship at Giant Center in Hershey. That kid is hungry for a chance. This is a make or brake season for Varly. Sounds like he is in it to win it with the number change and training at Kettler already. Let’s get that big Defensive Defensemen to teach our kids Alzner and Carlson how to handle the NHL style of play as a role model and we will be fine. Wish Rod Langway would work with those two for a while. He does have a Norris Trophy by the way. Those guys need a mentor and Poti isnt that guy. That is the best way to protect the investment in Carlson and Alzner. They both can be Gems one day if they are set up right.