They were clearly the better team and they amped it up to another level. They parlayed their momentum from round 1 quite efficiently while we never seemed to be able to step it up and catch them in terms of energy and production. Little things seemed to bother us this series. We weren’t resilient and we didn’t get over obstacles placed in our way. We are all accountable on this performance starting with me.
Their role players outplayed our role players.
Their highest paid players outplayed our highest paid players.
In fact, their role players outplayed our highest paid players.
Their goaltending was better.
Their special teams were better.
They adhered to their coaches’ system better than we adhered to our coaches’ system.
The wheels fell off for us. No doubt about that.
They deserve their success. They won and we lost. They move on. We ponder what to do next to improve our performance in the playoffs.
I was happy with our regular season performance. We won the East again.
I was happy with our first round performance winning a series in five games.
I am stunned that we were swept in round 2.
I am surprised that around the league such close games are turning into big leads for other teams as well.
In times like these people are emotional; angry; and demand change. I understand.
The best course of action for us though is to let a few days pass; be very analytic about what needs to be improved; articulate that plan; and then execute upon it.
Clearly we know we have to improve to build a franchise that is as good as our fan base.
I appreciate your emails. I appreciate all of the advice we are being given by media and bloggers. I understand that we are what our record says we are.
Thank you for your support during this grind of a season.
Thank you for caring so much. I am so very sorry we let you all down.
We were outcoached. Bruce is not a bad coach, but he couldn’t compete with the top coaches in this league (Tampa, Pitts, Detroit come to mind). We had no luck, they had lots of it (look at their goals off our defenders). That is not an excuse for being swept by a division rival. We were humiliated, and our players knew it. We are still young, and we have a second wave of talent coming (Kuznetsov, Orlov, Eakin) and our best defensive pair is still young (Alzner and Carlson) and Johannson is improving by the game. Our oldest star is Semin, and he is hardly a veteran at this point. Green looked better in this playoff than last year, but he is not as good as Carlson and can’t be paid like he is a super-star when he is just very good. Ovi can win a game himself, Green will not. The “problem” with Bruce is that he does so well in the Regular Season (historically, not this year) that it is hard to fire him mid-year. If we don’t get farther next year, he needs to go for sure. We need a coach who can out think his oppontnent, not just throw talent at the problem.
Thanks for your honesty; I have faith that you will make the right choices. We love you as an owner, because you communicate with is and you pay Ovi’s bills
Mr. Leonsis,
Congratulations on this past season.
Soon after Jason Arnott was acquired he had a positive impact on Semin. Jason and Semin developed a chemistry as linemates. Jason may be able to help motivate Semin even more in the next few years if Arnott is resigned. I have been a Semin fan since he was drafted by the Capitals and reacquired in ’06. Hopefully his #28 will one day hang in the rafters of the phone booth along with #8′s and #19′s.
Good Health to you and your family.
Ted,
It amazes me, how STUPID some of these ‘expert analysts’ actually are. How they can masquerade as an ‘expert’, pretending to know a thing or two about the game, and actually GET AWAY WITH IT is a mystery to me. Yes, let’s trade Alexander Semin and Mike Green. They’re not that good anyway (sarcasm). Ted, I’ll tell you why statements such as these are so poorly thought-out. We could get rid of them, and bring up some more of our young guys, instead. The problem with this, is that it usually takes at least a few seasons for young players to get acclimated. By this time, Ovi is 30. You’ve just wasted five years and you’re basically right back to where we are now. OR, you could ditch Green and Semin and bring in some more expensive veteran guys. The problem with this? All you’re doing is effectively narrowing our window to win a Cup. You have two or three years to do it with the vets, and if you don’t, all you’ve done is waste another three years. They are now over-the-hill NOT TO MENTION we are actually BEHIND where we are now, because we no longer have the talent of Alexander Semin and Mike Green in our lineup.
In case you can’t tell, I am extremely against trading away any of our ‘Young Guns’. It would be a catastrophic mistake to let any of them get away. Without Semin/Green, we don’t even get by the Rangers. That’s a fact. People can bitch all they want, but the fact is that the talent of these guys is what sets us apart. Without them, we don’t win. You take away Alexander Semin, you take away exactly 25% of our playoff scoring. Do you really want to do that? I know you’re smarter than that, Ted. Don’t let it happen. And what about Mike Green? He contributed 1G and 5A for 6 points in only 8 (7.5, really) games played. As far as I can tell, that is EXACTLY what we expect from our offensive defenseman. And coming off of multiple concussions, no less. KEEP HIM.
I’m sorry, Ted. But I am getting really sick of having to listen to these people pick on the SAME SCAPEGOATS EVERY SINGLE YEAR, REGARDLESS OF PERFORMANCE. I expect it from the fans, but I’d think the guys on sports radio shows and the like would know better. Apparently not.
Let people threaten to get rid of their season tickets if you don’t trade Semin/Green “for a bag of pucks” (seriously?) … The fact is, there will be THOUSANDS of people waiting in the wings to snag those tickets. You’ve brought an exciting brand of hockey to DC, and that’s why so many of us are loving it. This team DOES HAVE what it takes to win a championship. We just need to be patient. Only one team can win it every year. Our time is coming, I can guarantee you that.
I’m worried because after our loss to Montreal last year, we listened to the critics, and we changed our style of play (even though we REALLY didn’t need to). I can only hope that you will choose not to listen to the critics this year. Don’t listen to the idiots telling you to trade away a two-time Norris Trophy finalist. Don’t listen to the idiots telling you to trade away a 40-goal scorer. I’ll tell you something, Ted… For every fan out there who thinks Semin/Green should be traded, there are ten more fans who BELIEVE in this team, AS CONSTRUCTED.
However, if Bruce stays and does NOT start Varlamov in the playoffs next year, I may have to off myself out of sheer frustration. Three years now, we’ve watched Varlamov start on the bench and three years now, we’ve come away disappointed. Figure it out, Bruce. The kid is EASILY the most talented of our three goalies (and actually, I’d venture to say second only to Carey Price in the entire NHL) and yet he watches the postseason from the bench. You had me screaming at my television when the starting goalies were announced for Game 4 against Tampa. Give him a shot to START a series, and THEN finish it. Every year we’re put in a position where Varly is expected to come in off the bench and play clean-up to the mess that the other guy has created. GIVE HIM A SHOT AS THE STARTER and things will end differently, I guarantee it.
Oh, and this isn’t just blind love for Varly, although I am a huge fan of his. It’s actually an educated opinion (I’m the starting goalie for my university) based on having watched him since he came to this organization. It’s also based on the fact that both Neuvirth and Holtby (Holtby less-so than Neuvirth) have HUGE holes in their game that are easily detected and exposed. And just imagine, if their tendencies/flaws are this easy for ME to detect while I’m sitting at home watching… Imagine how easy it is for an NHL player or an NHL coach of another team to catch on. Hmmmmmmmmm.
In conclusion, my biggest frustrations this postseason were with Nicklas Backstrom (although I believe it to be an anomaly in an otherwise outstanding career) and with Bruce, not only for starting Neuvirth, but for sticking with him. I have to tell you, Ted… I called this one loooooooooooong before it happened… The minute that Neuvirth was announced as our starter, in fact. And it’s not that I don’t LIKE Neuvy… Because I do. He seems like a great kid, and he’s going to be a great goalie. But he’s not there yet. I watched all 82 regular season games, Ted… And I called this one, dead-on. I said to a friend of mine, before the playoffs even started – “Neuvirth will be fine against a weaker Rangers team. They have no offense, and he’ll look good. It will give Bruce confidence in him, a confidence that is NOT warranted. The minute we get up against a team that has some offense, he’ll crumble. But by this point, Bruce will have so much blind faith in him that he will refuse to make a switch.” That is EXACTLY what happened. I also remember saying, “The weak five-hole goals, dribblers squirting right through Neuvirth’s legs… Those will be the death of us in these playoffs.” Again, I’m 2-for-2. It was a tendency that was evident for him throughout the regular season, a tendency to leave a hole between his pads where the puck could squeak through. And it followed him into the playoffs.
That’s all I’ve got for today. I’m basically just sick and tired of hearing fans and media alike put ALL of the blame on the SAME playoff scapegoats, every single year, regardless of how those particular players perform. Just sick of it.
Great year Ted! I think this years playoffs is showing that the super stars like Vancouver’s Sedin twins who tore up the regular season are invisible and the Kessler types so please get Brooks signed for next year! Nashville has a team of ham and eggers and no big names but as a team they get it done. I know their goaltending had a big factor and I think we have a good group with Holtby I seeing being a number one. I have watched almost every game for the last three years and have been a Caps fan for over 30 years. I think the team seemed to take a different identity with Holtby in net. He has that confidence and attitude that seems to flow off the plays also. Hextall did it in Philly and I can see Holtby doing the same for the Caps. The young D we have are getting stronger and I would consider moving Green forward when Widemen and it Poti comes back next year healthy. Johannson is a great young talent and love to watch him skate and can see him doing well next year. I think speed is what we need to keep adding. Guys that are fast and aggressive will win puck battles day in and day out over the figure skaters like Semin. I think we can trade him to get us another Brooks like player a Dustin Penner type. I was hoping that would of happened before trade deadline. Jason and Marco have seen their days and we need to bring up young hungry Hershey guys. I’m not a Brian Burke fan but some things I do agree with him. I see how the Leafs put up a run in the second half of the team with speed and grinders and good goaltending and they don’t have half the young talent the Caps do in the system. If a Mark McNeill, Mark Scheifele or even a Sean Couturier is around in out draft slot that would be a nice big fit at Centre. Have a great and productive off season and looking forward to a big season and playoffs next year!
As you can tell by the posting date, I have taken a little time to mull over my disappointment. When we got swept by Tampa I was on board with finding a new coach, trading away Green and Semin, and basically starting fresh.
I feel now that would be a huge mistake. I think that most hockey fans would agree that the Detroit Red Wings have been the most dominant team in the post lock-out NHL. The winged wheel have made an appearance in the playoffs for 20 years running. Out of those twenty straight years, they have 4 Stanley cups. 4. This was our fourth year in a row. That’s right I said “Our”. After the highs and lows with the current team and the mostly lows with the previous teams in Washington I feel as invested in this team as anyone else.
The first year of this four year run, we were basically out of contention when a coaching change was made and we ended up in the playoffs. The second year, we had an epic battle in the second round that will live in Stanley Cup Playoff history forever, and lost to the eventual Stanley Cup Champions. The third year was a disappointment, and this year even more so due to the way we handled the Rangers in round 1.
I would be thrilled to look back in 16 years on a 20 year playoff run with 4 Stanley Cups to show for it. Hockey fans are some of the most rabid fans in sports. Stepping out side of myself it reminds me of the offspring of a European soccer fanatic and an American football fan. We dress in crazy outfits for the games and want to burn the arena down when we lose. Reflecting on this fact has convinced me that the right thing to do is to stay the course.
Having said that, I do believe, that the one thing this teams needs is an identity shift. It seems to me that some of the players on this team just don’t have the personal drive to get to the finish line. Coaches included. My personal thought is that starting now, no more endorsement deals for the coaching staff. BB earns his money on the ice or not at all. Resign Brooks Laich. The day he signs, the “c” gets sewn on his sweater. No one, not even Ovie, has worked as hard as Brooks over the last four years. Our captain leads by example. That example is not personal stats or air time on NHL network or ESPN, but WORK ETHIC, and intestinal fortitude. Lastly, as a fan, I love the open practices and other events that allow me unprecedented access to my favorite team. However, I am left wondering how that access affects my favorite team. Practices are now closed to fans and press. The entire organization needs to focus and stress the necessity of team work and core values.
Until next year, we reflect and reload, then re-rock the red.
Thanks again, Mr Leonsis, for being the greatest owner in sports. Count this as another vote for you buying out Dannyboy and getting my Skins back on track.
Thank you for UR response, it was a nice letter. I disagree w/ many, the Caps wanted the run..the cup. What was lacking was skill and patience, along w/ 4 great line’s to play. Ovie can’t do it all.. it takes a team. 4 lines.. that is what the Bolts had that the Caps and Pens didn’t have. Bolts also had the veterans w/ the experience and that is a huge plus. And last but not least.. is there anyone in the NHL or anywhere that can say Lecavalier, St louis, Gagne, Stamkos, Malone, Downie, Purcell, Thompson, etc etc etc. and not cringe at having to be on the ice with these men ?
Give me a break.. the Lightning are the underdog team, not mean to sweep any one.. lol Like your coach said.. Don’t under estimate the Lightning or else!
Slashing at the Bolt players, infront of the Ref’s.. stupid. But you got by with it.. not once but several times, hitting Roloson.. really stupid. Elbowing and etc etc.. Skill will always win out w/ the hockey Gods.. obviously.
Think about the things mentioned.. then figure out your “game”. Ovie .. needs to have more professionalism instilled in him. His dirty tactics got him no where did it?
Well maybe it did.. Golf anyone?
You have a good team.. now train it as such! Get back in there and win!
What was so disappointing is that the team never showed up for the 2nd series. They did not compete, or stick with a system.
What’s worse is that all I hear from the organization – Boudreau and GMGM – is excuses. That’s not the noises of a winning organization. It’s the sound of an organization with a losing attitude hanging around its neck like an albatross.
What good does a President’s Trophy do? It should be blown up at the beginning of the season next year to make clear the team understands it is worthless.
Big changes need to happen before this team has a chance of realizing the kind of mental shift that needs to happen before this team can succeed. The team will never get better until each individual in the organization is held accountable.
Deal Semin. Pick 2 out of 3 goalies – deal the other one. Get a veteran presence. Blah blah blah.
It won’t make a bit of difference till the team’s leadership faces up to the complete and utter failure of this year and takes responsibility for it.
@RocktheRed
It’s interesting that you bring up Chicago and Pittsburgh. Both of those teams’ cup runs were preceded immediately by a coaching change.
Just sayin’.
Dear Ted –
Your organization has provided me with some of my fondest memories – from my dad religously driving our family out I-495 to the old US Air Arena to cheer for the team in the 80s and early 90s; when the team moved downtown, we started transversing the metro to get to Chinatown for games; we were there for the run to the finals in 98, and then for the Jagr years, and now the Young Gun years. It has been quite a journey, one that is stiched into the fabric of who I am. The maturing the organization has gone through over the last 4 years has been simultaneously wonderful and, at times, hard to watch. You’ve raised the bar, and for that I thank you. I know you are going to be making strategic decisions about some of our best players, our coach and our GM – all in the name of the team and in building a better whole. I wish you luck and ask that you please not hesitate to raise the bar again.
The ‘fans’ who want us to trade Alexander Semin and Mike Green for Brad Richards and whoever else, obviously haven’t been around that long. Trading our young talent, THE FUTURE OF THIS TEAM, for overpaid, over-the-hill veterans is exactly what we SHOULDN’T do. It’s exactly what we did when we got Jagr, and how’d that work out? Alex Ovechkin is 25. Nicklas Backstrom is 23. Alexander Semin is 26. Mike Green is 25. They’re the core of our team and they are all YOUNG. If we trade away our ‘Young Guns’ for a bunch of overpaid veterans, do you know what we’re doing? We are DRASTICALLY narrowing the window for this team to win a Cup. With the guys we have on the roster now, we have time. They’re young. We have time to make it happen, and winning a Stanley Cup does take TIME, for those of you who showed up at the Verizon Center about the same time that Ovechkin did. If we bring in a bunch of veterans, we have a window of maybe one, two years to win the Cup. That’s it. And then if we have some bad luck, or the bounces don’t go our way… It’s over. And then what will we be left with? No Cup, and no talent left on our roster. That’d be real nice, wouldn’t it? Ted, you said it yourself. This team is constructed to compete for the next DECADE. Don’t make the mistake of trading away any of our young guys. You take away even ONE of them, you drastically hurt this team’s chances. People forget that this team is still young. We have a very large window to win a Cup here, there is no need to panic. The boys will grow and mature as a TEAM. I only wish that some of these fans who hopped on the bandwagon five years ago when The Great 8 came to town would realize that when attempting to win a Stanley Cup, THERE ARE NO QUICK FIXES. You have to allow the team to mature as a team. Organizations that make the mistake of looking for a quick fix usually don’t get very far. The Ottawa Senators are a perfect example. Who are the teams who have won the Cup the past couple of years? Chicago in 2010 and Pittsburgh in 2009. Both are teams who drafted extremely well, kept the core of their team intact and were patient enough to allow them the time to mature TOGETHER. Ovie, Nicky, Semin and Green are all UNTOUCHABLE as far as I’m concerned, as are Carlson, Alzner, Johansson, and all THREE of our young goalies. The ‘trade Varly’ cries are just plain nonsense. You people forget that he was our playoff saviour the last two years. When Varly is healthy, he is BY FAR the best goalie on this team. That’s it. I honestly can’t read half of this crap anymore. Ted, I hope you have enough knowledge of the game to see the potential that this young team has, and enough patience to allow them to realize it. The true fans of your team are not going to walk away just because it’s been six years in the Ovechkin-era and we haven’t yet won a Cup (God, people do you hear yourselves? Ovie is only 25, for God’s sake).
Ted,
I posted earlier on a need for a coaching change. I since returned to read the comments of others. I hear the call for Semin and Green to go. I know that you do not make decisions based on message board posts, but under no circumstances should you let the fans run an outstanding defenseman like Mike Green out of town. I have seen this happen in the past with Larry Murphy and he went on to have an outstanding career and win numerous Stanley Cups. Mike Green is still young as defenseman go and with Alzner (whom you need to resign) and Carlson give us an outstanding young nucleus to build around defensively.
In the case of Alex Semin I am unsure, but I see so much talent and I am afraid to just give that away. This one I will cede to someone who knows the situation better than I can see from the outside. Like I said before do not rush into a decision, but a coaching change is likely needed for us to take the next step. Thanks as always for listening, you remain the best owner in pro sports.
I’ve been a fan long enough to appreciate how fortunate DC is to have a competitive and entertaining hockey team — thanks for another good season. Please consider supporting a rule severely penalizing ALL hits to the head, except fighting I guess. Seriously, losing players to these injuries really detracts from my enjoyment of the game and in my view the benefits of a ban far outweigh the costs. Thanks for listening.
Ted, I grew up a Red Wings fan, so I must admit I was slightly pulling for Tampa Bay in your series because of the Yzerman factor, but I have to say, you are an amazing owner and person.
Every sports team and fan of any sports team would be lucky to have you for an owner. Your passion for the game, the sport, your team and most of all, your class and character is second to none.
Best of luck in the future.
Ted, I’m now a Tampa resident and Lightning fan. Years ago, I lived in Northern Virginia and was a Capital fan. I appreciate what you have done for the program. In fact, my son saw his first hockey game in D.C. and has played almost every day since. I’m sure he’s not the only one that was drawn in by your franchise.
My assessment, The Lightning play as a unit, team first, second and third.
The Capitals are full of highly talented individuals that play like individuals. Hockey is the ultimate team game and the Caps could win the cup if they would sell out for the team.
Like everyone else here, I appreciate your heart-felt message about the Caps’ season. I’d also like to thank you for all the wonderful ways you have developed the Caps as a team and the NHL in DC as a fan experience. Though I’ve been a fan since the mid-80s, the last several years have been special.
On the coach controversy, I think that BB was the perfect man to turn the Caps around when he first took over in 2007. He hugely boosted their morale and got them to believe in themselves. He loves the game and he loves his players. But now I’d have to say that the team has outgrown him and that he cannot take the Caps to the level of serious Stanley Cup contender.
The problem? BB is a classic player’s coach. He coaches by gut, not by analysis. He indulges the stars who perform well, rather than working hard with the stars who could perform better. He obsesses too much on tweaking the team’s mood and chemistry, not enough on demanding from every player perfection in the game’s fundamentals. When watching the Caps, fans of other teams say this a lot: What a hugely talented team… but why do they so often seem unfocused?
It’s frustrating, for fans, how BB seems too easily satisfied by (or at least claims he can do nothing about) careless play by his superstars. Ovi in particular desperately needs serious coaching on tactics by someone he respects, and sadly he is not getting it. It’s downright weird how this magnificent athlete is failing to become a smarter player as he matures. If this isn’t BB’s responsibility, what is? The Caps need a coach who can be to Ovi sort of what Scotty Bowman was to Steve Yzerman. And they don’t have that coach right now.
Of course, my opinion is just one among many. But I do endorse the recommendation made by another reader that you “red-team” the Caps’ future. Get together a group of expert outsiders and have them deliver to the news–good and bad–about what the rest of the NHL intelligentsia thinks about the Caps and what they most need to improve. I suspect that at least some of the answer will involve coaching.
Mr. Leonsis,just wanted to say, that I enjoy your ownership of my favorite team in sports. So we got knocked out of the playoffs, no team can win it if they don’t have the chance, at least we get into the playoffs now, and have that chance. The team you have built in Washington has at least a chance to get “there”. I have been a Caps fan since ’74,and I for one am excited about the future you have brought to “my” team. With you as owner and the kids you have in the system your dream as well as mine will come one day soon.”THE STANLEY CUP”!
His systems are not what made ov a to time mvp in fact it had little to do with it
Just want to say you rock! Everyone needs to remember that all good things take time. Caps are young and hungry. Everything will be okay. Thanks for being the best owner in the NHL.
“Thank you for caring so much. I am so very sorry we let you all down.”
I really appreciate this sentiment. Shows me you can really relate to the depths of despair some of us are feeling. Personally I think other players besides Ovechkin need to work even harder. The good breaks will come easier and more often with that harder work!
Dear Ted,
I’m a fan from Hungary. I’m very sorry that the team lost the games. I hope to the next year your dream will come true and the Capitals will win the Stanley Cup.I wish them good luck. Congratulations to the results until now.
Karoly
i am a big fan of the caps although living in buffalo ;the sabres are my favorite.that said i like your style.let the emotion subside and make well thought out decisions.your common sense will tell you the caps are very very close.maybe a couple of players need a new location but keep the core and the coach.hopefully next year the caps and my sabres will meet in the conference final.wish every owner in sports had your class.
Unbreak my heart.
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=364734
There is a line from that particular article that really did not sit well with me and if other readers have seen it, I’m pretty sure it irked them as well.
“What we’re doing here, I believe, is putting a good team on the ice every year and hopefully one of these years we win it. But we’re in the mix every year,” McPhee said. “And it could be worse: We could be missing the playoffs.”
It incenses me that he would say something like this. It’s like an excuse and writing off any responsibility for the season. “hopefully one of these years we win it” or “it could be worse”. This feels like what is wrong with this hockey club to an extent…complacency. It will get better one day.
Ted,
That is really classy of you. Thank you for this post, it really made my day seeing a heartfelt blog from a man like yourself.
We’ll get em next year! Go CAPS!
Tony Kornhiser has referred to the Caps during the playoffs as “the choking dogs.” Although I disagree with the words, the point that he is trying to make cannot be argued – that is, it cannot be argued logically.
There’s a lot to cheer about as a DC fan of the Caps. I don’t think most of us are asking for much, either. Mostly, we’d like to win in the regular season and, then, make a legitimate run in the playoffs.
Although there’s enough blame to go around, it isn’t going to change the facts: we’ve been here three times before, and, for whatever reason, or combination of reasons, we still haven’t made a real run for the cup.
My wife knew we would lose by the look on our players faces when we went down by one early in the first on Tuesday. And sadly, they lived down to her expectations.
As they noted in the Natural, “losing is a disease.” And what our guys need right now is a good shoulder to cry on, and some serious sports counseling.
Ted, again, I’d like to thank you and the team for an . . . exciting year, full of potential and future prospects. I just hope to live long enough . . .
Thanks for letting me sound off!
I’m in the tank for you, Ted, you’re the best owner in sports. Caps aren’t my team but I’d like them to do well for your sake.
Reg season is so not playoffs; Caps-TB regular season was nothing like Caps-TB playoffs. Is this a championship team? Does it have skill, but not character? I think that’s the question.
When it comes to my boys, the Habs, I didn’t think Carey Price was a Stanley Cup goalie. He hasn’t proven me wrong. I don’t know if BB is a SC coach. Not saying he isn’t, just don’t know.
Caps have their Gretzky in Ovie. But who’s the Messier? Find your Messier (like that’s easy), find your Al Arbour or Scotty Bowman, then you get your SC.
“I expect him to be back. He’s a good coach.”
- George McPhee upon being asked about Bruce Boudreau’s future, via Tarik El-Bashir
So what happened to the full analysis and accountability you promised? You treat your fanbase like they were friggin’ idiots……………..
Am I disappointed… absolutely. But there is no need for all of the criticism of the coaching staff and management. How many teams can go from one season to the next with a complete philosophy change and take the conference in both cases… not too many.
The cup will come to DC soon enough. I’ve heard it said, that you can do everything right in the stanley cup playoffs and still not end up with the cup. Luck will be on our side eventually as long as we continue to put out the kind of product we have been. Keep the Faith.
Thankyou Ted for being such a great and driven owner… your team is great, the fans are and will be rockin the red and believing again next year. And please keep Arnott, I’d love to see what we can do with him in the locker room for an entire season.
You’re a class act, Ted. I appreciate your involvement with the team, and your obvious regard for the fans. You’re one of us, and I can’t tell you how rare that is for an owner. The Caps are my home team and I will always support them; winning a Cup would just be gravy.
Ted be happy, you can do it.
We have been Caps Fans for serveral years now. After the first game I said we would be swept. The Bolts had a dynamic coach that pushed and prodded the team on and off the bench. We have a bunch of high paid team members that are sitting in a pile of excuses and “don’t know how it happened”. I could not even bear to listen to the videos after the game. The players were acting like cry babies, instead of grown men, except for Brooks, Knuble, and Arnott. Keep those three, and tell the others to get with the program or get lost.
I have heard BB over and over talk about no one tells Ovi what to do, he just jumps in and does it. What kind of coach is that? One who gets bench penalties for too much men on the ice. I believe the team needs someone who knows and has won over and over. We have an amateur who makes excuses constantly instead of taking the initiative to learn and do what it takes. The young guns need some direction and stability. All BB did all season was change the lines and hope it worked.
The Bolts looked like a well greased machine, and we looked like “willie nillie what do we do next” players. I think you already know my recommendation, even though I have been a BB fan for the past three years. The other assistant coaches look like they have it together. I know you will do the right thing. Thaat’s my amateur observer and hockey lover opinion.
Ted,
As a Capitals fan, I was upset and concerned (as many others). But as the disappointment subsided today, I realized that 1) We have a very young team, 2) We have a relatively young coach (in terms of years in that position), and 3) It takes time and experience to win in the NHL playoffs. Lots of reasons that we failed in the 2nd round, but I’m confident that Bruce B. will make them better, George M. will make them better, and most importantly, your young and talented team will make THEMSELVES better next year. Please don’t panic and make too many changes. These are good guys, good players, and upstanding citizens. We love them and support them, and we want them to succeed ALMOST as much as they want to succeed.
Enjoy the summer and be confident that we’ll be supporting you next fall and winter. Looking forward to seeing my team in the playoffs next spring!
Mike
Mr. Leonsis,
I have followed your stewardship of the Caps since your taking the helm and have nothing but respect for the way you run your organization in the front office. Having said that, you know that in the business world when things get tough it’s core values that keep one plowing through. This is the problem with your hockey team…they play dirty. Playing dirty is a cheat. Those who cheat do not have the grounding to hold up under extreme pressure. Coach has to go and the culture must change…Bolts beleved and fought for each other and played the game hard and clean…PRIDE. Take it from a fan who has endured the garbage in Tampa for several years…what a breath of fresh air.
nice take Ted, but I just read that GMGM expects BB to be back. How can you already make that decision? A coach matters. Look at The Bolts. Look at the Pens. Sometimes a change is needed. i am a long time season ticket holder and I will not be supporting a team lead by a buffoon selling carpet and Mercedes with cup holders and hawking verything else in sight. He was OUTCOACHED. There were no adjustments to the 1-3-1, none to the poor power play, never pulled Neuvy (not that anything was his fault but hell even Ryan Miller and Fleury were pulled). Yes there were injuries and bad bounces. But don’t blame this collapse on anything unless and until you take a hard look at the coaching. There are plenty of coaches out there that would demand more from these guys — and get it.
I left the Washington area 6 years ago when the Capitals were still struggling to find wins and fans, and have marveled at their success since then. If the players had shown the same intensity and dedication to a system as my soon-to-be-defunct Coyotes did with NO superstars, the Caps would be hoisting the Cup in June. I like Bruce B alot, and obviously the players have a belief in what he brings, but sometimes, as shown in the Gretzky-for-Tippett change in Phoenix, you need to shake things up. I’m sure whatever you and George decide will be done for the right reasons, and next year will end differently…and the Caps are still ‘my team’!
Dear Mr. Leonsis,
Being a Caps fan since 1984 when I was introduced to hockey, I am proud of what this franchise has done since you bought the team from Mr.Pollin. You have built the franchise the right way, through the draft (add pieces along the way in free agency when it worked and when it failed and trades in trying to fins the right pieces) and been a winner for four straight years.Playoffs baby! Yes, it is frustrating that the Caps lost in four straight against Tampa, but look at the Sharks…built the same way and not won a cup yet. The time will come. This franchise is being run great and the Caps are very young and successful.100 points in consecutive seasons is nothing to sneeze at. The time will come and I appreciate all that Mr. Leonsis has done in building a winner in Washington. Patience is a virtue and the time will come. It will. There are great building blocks that this team has and like they say, “You gotta work your way to the top.” I have seen the 4OT losses in the past and seen the team come together to win series against the Rangers 2 out of the last 3 years. I’m proud to be a Caps fan and thanks for making Washington D.C. a hockey town and seeing how passionate Caps fans are. The building is packed every night and rocking the red is great. We will be back..
A couple of comments from a fan since ’74.
The indifference exhibited in game 1 was inexcusable- I knew that would come back to bite them, and it did when Tampa got all of the lucky bounces in games 2 and 3. In game four, Tampa just wanted it more- the Caps got beat, plain and simple. I feel that it all snowballed from the pathetic game 1 effort- or lack thereof.
I would give one more year to the status quo- with appropriate deference to the salary cap. The core group is still young and developing.
Two players, however, are vastly over-rated; Green and Semin. Green is a defensive liability and will remain injury-prone, and Semin is an unreliable head-case. I’m not interested in their press clippings.
Considering the utter lack of defense, I feel that Neuvirth played reasonably well- game 3 could have been 10-3.
Would it make sense to bring in a hard-ass coach? I’m glad that’s not my decision to make.
Ted-
Thank you for being the best sports team owner anywhere!
Why people think the solution to defeat is fire the coach?? And where’s the list of potential candidates to replace BB with? Everyone needs to take a deep breath and calm down. Yes, there needs to be some personnel changes that will not make some fans happy, but I’m confident that you, the coaching staff and GMGM will work it out.
Looking forward to CAPS CONVENTION in Sept!
Ted,
I’ve read a lot of these posts and highly disagree with a lot of them. It is obvious that many of the fans posting do not understand how difficult it is to win a cup. The last 7 cups have been won by 7 different teams and they are not always the best teams on paper or in the standings. I don’t have to tell you this, but drastic changes are not the answer. I’m sorry for the inpatients of many of the fans. You have a great thing going. The Caps are fun to watch and I’ve been a Caps fanatic since I was 10 years old. Thanks for building a great team! I can’t speak on behalf of all Caps fans, but I’m am very thankful for what you have done with the team. The cup will come to Washington, it is clear that its not a matter of “if” but a matter of “when.” I’m patient because I realize that this is hockey and not baseball, you can’t buy a championship. I know you and Mcphee will strike that chord needed to bring the cup here. That will be a sweet moment for me. Take care and enjoy the off-season!
Ted-
Appreciate your comments and commitment to the team. I think several people have already said it but it deserves repeating-you are a class act as an owner and I know you and your team will make the right decisions. The deadline adds were great, make sure we keep them. MacPhail is a great. I think Beaudreau will get us there enventually. We need to get more speed. I think it’s time for Ovie to stop double shifting on the power play.
Ted
What is the meaning of your comment: “We are all accountable on this performance starting with me.” How will you demonstrate your own accountability? It’s one thing to state it, it’s another to back it up with real, meaningful action.
Ted:
First off, what a tremendous owner you are. Your approach to building the Caps from nothing to a perrenial power is truly inspiring. I see a lot of that with what the Nationals are doing. When you took over the Wizards, I was thrilled. The Caps might not have a Stanley Cup, but we at least have a Champion of an owner. If we could just get you to buy the Redskins…
As for this collapse. Ted, I grew up in DC and came to California in ’92. I still love the Caps (only a diehard Los Angelino can root for the Kings or Ducks). I was at Capital Center for a 2 OT game against the Islanders. I saw the Caps blow a 3-1 lead against the Pens. I watched in horror as many truly dominant teams in the 80′s just could not get by inferior competition.’98 was great and then ended so suddenly. Losing that 7th game to Sid and the Pens a couple years ago…it still stings. And then last year’s disaster. Getting swept by a Tampa Bay team that may very well win the whole thing is not as bad as the Montreal disaster. But, it is a sign of something many of us posting here feel and believe, namely that you need to make a coaching change. Most of us love Bruce. He took this team from doormats to dominant. He is a great guy, the kind of guy you want to go have a beer with. But, he has turned into the Marty Schottenheimer of the NHL. He can’t get the Caps to the next level. Sure, some of the players deserve the blame. You can’t blame Ovi as I don’t think anyone played harder than him or wanted it more. But Semin, Backstrom, Green, Arnott…they just vanished. I just think you need a change of philsophy, a change of approach. Something like that. This team is too talented to get swept. If they lost in 6 or 7, that’s different. But, to me, this sweep is like the Cowboys getting pasted by the Packers in that Sunday night game. That’s what cost Wade Phillips his job. As much as I like Bruce and think he is a great coach, I really think a change needs to be made.
As a Caps fan, thanks so much for making this team so good again. All of us who Rock The Red appreciate it.
Oh and one final request….change the Wizards name back to the Bullets…please
Thanks Ted!! Best wishes and GO CAPS!!!
all these people who are angry at the organization are obviously not true fans. true fans always support their team. only one team can win the championship a season, and if it’s not this year, hopefully it’s the next year
Ted,
Will you please buy the Redskins?
-All DC Sports Fans
Ted,
I agree with you in the playoff players have to work hard,hard, hard, never give an inche to others.
Also Mr.Boudreau is a great person, but he’s not the right coach for this team.
See you next year in the final playoff 2012
Best regards,
Gaetan from Canada
Ted. I can understand your frustration as a majority owner of an under-achieving hockey franchise. But do not be fooled, this result occurred because of a season set back. When your franchise decided to play a defense first approach to the game, you left out some key elements and/or ignored certain aspects of your team. For example, your team is full of offensive firepower which is great for the way the game is played now days. Also, you need the right coach for the style you want to play. Bruce is a great coach but he is not one for a defensive style of play. Your teams core is made up of Europeans which is great but know this, they are taught offense first. Not defense. Why would you attempt to fix what is not broken? Last year they were eliminated by the Montreal Canadians because of one man. Halak. Sure they didn’t play great defensive hockey but you don’t have to when you score almost 4-5 goals a game. I don’t understand what your franchise is trying to do, but my advice to you is to go back to the offensive style of play. That is the Washington Capitals.
I want to thank you for a great season. May God continue to bless you and your business, teams, and family. I would like to look at the playoffs as half full, and that the puck did not bounce our way, by no means we need to tweek our personnel because of this. Ovie is right, if it is not broke dont fix it, all of our mistakes were due to a overchiever team who had the puck bounce their way, look at Boston,
Do me a favor and keep everyone, Wideman and Potti healthy is a major difference.
Thanks again!!
Ted, thank you for being such a great owner and fellow Georgetown Alumnus. We all know that something has to be done with the team as it now stands. I agree with you that we have to let things calm down and then review each player, coach and GM. Then decisions will be made. The CAPS will return! GO CAPS!
With the talent on your team,there should be no question that you need and should have won a Stanley Cup,and after 4 years of disapointment,with the talent that is on this team,it has to be the coaching staff that needs to be held accountable or changed,I know it’s an old cleche that you can’t fire the players,so it has to be the coach,well that statement is 100% correct,what makes a team better and what makes an individual better can only come from the coach,why is it when there is success ,the coach always gets the credit,fair enough,but when there is failure,it’s always that the team did not perform to their best of their ability,this has to fall on the coach,he is not getting the point accross,and he falls way short on his motivational skills,there needs to be a change,I am sure Boudreau is a nice guy,and well liked,but he is getting paid to win,and in my life if you don’t win or perform you should not be allowed to continue your empl;oyment.
I agreed with what Nate said.
Nate says
“They adhered to their coaches’ system better than we adhered to our coaches’ system.”
Guy Boucher did a better job at is 1 season againts B.Boudreau.
Ted,
Nice post and appreciate your approach. I did have a question, do you bring in advisers from outside the organization to give you a “unvarnished” overview of what other teams see when the look at the Capitals? Strength/Weaknesses/etc. It seems like there are a couple of major holes that need to be closed if you want to get to the next level and I don’t know if GMGM or BB are able to get outside their own “head/heart” and be able to take the steps necessary to correct.
A very classy “letter” by a very classy man (and organization). However, I think you are being a bit too harsh, when you apologize for “letting us all down”. If anything, “we” let you and the team down — some of those Twitters and Emails that came into Comcast last night were harsh… and a tad unfair.
Yes, it is disappointing to lose so early in the playoffs, but we all need to remember — over the past three years, Gabby has managed two Eastern Conference 1sts, and one 2nd. While that success hasn’t translated into the playoffs, those folks who think Bruce needs to go, need to remind themselves how bad things were, four to seven years ago, before he got here. His coaching, his systems — it is what made Ovie a 2-time MVP, and what has allowed this team to attain un-paralleled success. More importantly, this team has won (and lost) with class (remember Brooksie’s flat tire fix last year after Game 7).
Definitely, some things need to be looked at, some focus re-acquired, some strategies (powerplay) and line changes (Arnott really needs to stay paired with Semin) re-thought. But, in the end, I think Alan May said it best, when he reminded us, that the late season surge (i.e., the defensive lockdown after the trade deadline) started, when we acquired Arnott, Sturm, and… Wideman. Wideman missed the last few games of the year as well as the playoffs… and things were not the same. Apparently, he is an important guy, and it unfortunately took something like the Tampa series to drive that point home. I hope we are able to keep Arnott and Wideman (Sturm is already under contract), and the majority (if not all) of the team as well.
After all, we did essentially start four rookies this year, and the Young Guns are still young, and although growing pains are hard to watch sometimes, they deserve a chance to figure things out together. They are a fine group of men, talent-wise and character-wise, and although it is hard to lose this way, I am proud to wear my Capitals jersey.
Thanks to everyone for a wonderful season…!
After only 3 months with the new ‘defense-first’ system, I think it was still too much of a novelty for the team and they were too self-conscious on defense and too tentative on offense and afraid to make mistakes. Tampa Bay comes along with their 1-3-1, and now the Caps are thinking waaaay too much.
The last 3 cup winners did not have a ‘defense-first’ identity. They were just really good hockey clubs that knew how to play solid defense when it was called for.
The Caps need to play another full year under the new system until the transition between defense and offense becomes second nature to them and they don’t have to think about it.
Just a thought.
Ted,
If I may call you by this name. You have done well to turn a hockey team into the darlings of Washington D.C. as the other owner of a football team has destroyed its legacy. We still are a very good team, yet we need more leadership and determination comes playoff time. We see to believe that winning the southeast title makes our season, and we lose our focus as a team come playoffs. This is when certain players still seem to need a kick in the hockey pants and pick up their level of play. You saw it by the Tampa team 1 -4 lines all played as a unit. The Defense stood tough and forwards out skated all but a few of the cap players. Defenceman is a good beginning, Alzner and Carlson are your future, Shultz was shown to be wayyyy to slow they out skated and muscles him all games in Tampa. We still have no 2-3 line center so teams stack against our #1 line. Your done well trading for picks well time for a topline player to be traded for picks and turn them into good solid choices for a strong defenseman as well as a solid 2-3 line center i the draft.We have a coupleyoung players coming up time to have them step in as well. Goal tending is not the issue 3 solid players maybe even 4, yet we might need to trade one so we can get a draft pic as well or solid 2 way player. I could go on but i think this is enough to say,Hoping for a brighter future and soild wise choices to elevate a very good team and owner to the TOP GOAL OF SIR STANLEY in D.C.
P.S. I am living in Tampa btw, I grew up with the Caps at the beginning in ’74. Time to kick this in gear,the jokes are flying here at work towards the caps..ughhh just do it! !!
Ted, you are a class act. This team will have a Cup. I believe and I have been a fan since 1979. The boys lost their mojo in the 2nd round. TB still had theirs intact. I will still believe in the Caps next year. You have brought wonders to this team. Thank you.
Ted,
You are great owner and put on a great show at the arena. Please keep coach Boudreau, he is a winner. We just need to become meaner, I think we are too “nice”.
Go Caps
I’ve felt for sometime that we have a cancer on this team. And, I’m afraid that if that tumor is not removed the doctor, who apparently is missing the diagnosis, will lose control over the situation and this team will flat line.
The cancer, in my opinion is Alexander Semin. While I believe that he is one of the most talented guys on the planet, he does not have heart. He appears soft of mind and body, and he is a liability more than a benefit. I would be willing to bet that he is talked about behind his back by his team. I questioned the extension, but maybe he has more trade value that way?
I also love the doctor (Coach), but I’m starting to think that he’s being taken advantage of by his team. As long as the cancer is cured, I’m all for keeping Coach. However, the ONLY replacement that I would consider would be someone who has won a Stanley Cup before, either as a player or as a coach. WINNERS BREED WINNERS!!! And, with all due respect to Coach and GMGM, they have never won a Stanley Cup. Case in point…Stevie Yzerman at Tampa.
Enough said.
Caps need to get an elite goaltender–that’s what’s holding this team back from winning the Cup.
When you have a post season record 17-20, There is a problem with your coaching. Fantastic to finish top of Eastern Division many times during regular season , but come playoffs they are out coached and leader-less. There is no fire in the Caps come playoffs. Obvious by last year’s series loss to Montreal and the destruction by Tampa Bay. In the first game, the 1-3-1 defense of tamps was brilliant. What changes did Bruce make to adjust to it? I think Bruce is a great guy and sometimes great guys can only do so much. Keeping Bruce, I see continued path of losing early to lower seeded teams as the last 4 years have shown. I am a Flyers fan, born and bred , but respect the Caps and see the opportunity for a Stanley cup fading each year. With teams like Philly , Boston, Buffalo, Tampa, Pittsburgh and NY building up . caps are limited to time frame of success. You need a coach which can light a fire under this amazingly talented team. For the good of hockey and Washington DC ( which needs some team winning), Bruce needs to go .
It is beyond obvious that the only thing holding this team back is a head coach. Please Ted, do the right thing,or you will lose many of your loyal fanbase. All our bandwagon fans haven’t endured the last four years.As a season ticket holder,please don’t put us through any more of this coach.
Ted: here’s where your accountability comes in:
Keep the pieces, all of them…and make it clear that the whole thing is on *them*.
You don’t win the Cup. You don’t skate around the ice with it (shoot, I bet you don’t skate). THEY do; and it’s plain that they want to win it with their teammates, their teammates NOW, and are as puzzled as, maybe more so than, you are. Tell them to look at each other and ask each other: how bad do we really want this?
They’re at the point where the chuckles are starting. Upheaval now – from the best team in hockey the last two years – will be for, OK, what? The only change that will work is in the hearts and minds of the players; only they can make that change; and it’s after all for what THEY want, not something you could want nearly as much as they do.
TELL THEM. Then protect them from the heat while they figure this out.
McPhee has it right: there isn’t a playoff coach or a playoff-structured team. There’s only good, and not, and you have as good as there is. Tossing 82 games for 16 is a fool’s errand. The best after 82 is the best…if they believe they are. And that’s the hurdle.
You do this, and make it public, the way you did when you said we need to start over, and the league (even those %$$##@ Pens fans) will say: there’s an owner.
And the players just might say: we’re a TEAM.
Ted i had the pleasure of meeting you in the elevator with your son after a game the year you changed coached you did not know us we were 3 all former hockey players, you said someting to us like you were looking for a dummy to buy this team.We knew how you felt at that time the Cap were loosing and going nowhere you felt hopeless at the time,I remember saying to you that you had too much dead woods on your team and that you had very good players but no system.You change your coach and aquire the goalie from Montreal.You fan started coming to your game and you made the playoff you could get a ticket for the last 12 games you wre sold out, and i was thinking about the dummy and smile what if you had sold this team??.You have a very good team but some players are not playing as a team i could mention about 4 of them.You might have to make some change again but my first impression of you is that your are a very smart man and you will do what is best for The Caps I am very sorry that you loss and this time it is hard to accept but in 3 weeks you will be working hard for the best to improve your team. Boudreau did very well for you but he need help.Defence , goalie and 2 fowards again thank you for all you did for the CAPS we enjoyed them very much thank you
Ted-
I’ve been a Caps fan since the very inception of the franchise. I can remember dragging my parents down to Hechts to buy playoff tickets on merely the *chance* that the Caps would make the playoffs for the very first time (they didn’t). That was one of what has been a long string of disappointments for the only DC franchise I’ve ever passionately followed. The others are well chronicled.
This year stings particularly bad. This was the year that things were to come together. To be swept out in the second round is quite frankly inexcusable. As I told someone after watching games one and two of the series, I’d rather watch a bunch of no-names who grind, scrap and play hard every minute than watch the disappointment that is this squad.
Too many stupid mistakes – bad line changes, defensive lapses, offensive players disappearing – it was particularly frustrating.
I thank you for bringing the franchise up to this level. The hardest hurdle to clear is often the last one and that’s certainly the case here. I don’t pretend to know the answers, but it’s clear *something* is wrong and needs to be corrected. Whether that’s by addition, subtraction or both is for smarter people than me. I’m hopeful you have the right guys who can figure that out.
I’m numb to post-season letdowns by now. I find solace in the fact that at least this year’s heartbreak isn’t at the hands of the Penguins like so many others.
Ted,
Just to make clear, you don’t “win” the Eastern Conference by finishing first in points in the regular season. You get the banner when you are officially better than every other team in the Eastern Conference and go on to the Finals.
Apparently, the Caps, as currenly constituted from the top down, are a long way from that banner.
Ted-
I have been a Caps fan since 1974 (when I was 4) and was at the first game the Caps ever won. I am truly a life long fan and I now live in California but follow every game no matter where I am in the world. I believed we were fairly evenly matched with Tampa going into the series and that it could certainly go either way. However I cannot accept being swept without concluding that either our core players do not want to win as badly as their core players and/or we were massively outcoached. I believe that both are the case. Ovi has tremendous passion but in hockey you cannot carry a team from left wing and he needs his teammates to match his intensity, which they did not. I feel like we have now been passed by Tampa Bay, who 4 years ago were one of the worst teams in the league. Crosby and Malkin will be back. We need to do much, much more not to waste Ovi’s career and truly be a cup contender. The composition of this team must change. You need more players who compete hard every night (e.g. not Alex Semin). You need to pick the goalie who scares other teams (Holtby). You need to not accept this result.
You’re right on the money, here, Ted; we got outplayed by a very good team (that we were chasing most of the season and was only two wins worse than us). Those fans calling for big changes forget that this team’s front lines remain among the youngest in the league, so the core group has years to get better and win lots of Cups; perhaps the Lightning should be the guide; they won the Cup the year AFTER ousting us, then lost their stars and haven’t appeared again for 7 years. Every team needs tinkering, but let’s not forget that George and Bruce have gotten us into the playoffs for four years with this group; we’re among the best in the East with a very exciting brand of hockey; and (as LOTS of other teams are learning this year), the difference among the top 12 teams in the League is very small, a bounce or two here and there.
Ted, those Caps fans calling for drastic changes need only ask the diehard fans of DC’s other teams, the ‘Skins, the Nats, your Wiz or United, whether they’d trade the disappointment of a second round Playoff loss after a great season for the disappointments of paying to watch a season long loser, and I’m guessing Caps fans would be the ones with the pride to see how much we owe this team for seven great months of sports highlights. “Wait til next year” may not be the song we wanted to sing, but at least we can have true belief that next year still has the promise of a championship season. Tinker, but don’t destroy, please!
Ted, thanks for another great year. You and George are class acts and are doing a great job bringing in new your drafted talents. I have been a Caps fan since Mike Palmateer was traded back in the 80′s and have seen some great and no so great years. The past two years having such great seasons to be let down in the playoffs is tough to watch. I think the core is there but need to add a vetran leader like a Brad Richards early in the year even if that means unloading a few big guys contracts and letting the Hershey up and comers grow. The goalies are solid and I can see Holtby taking a run at the number one spot next year. Neuvy had a great year and playoffs. Maybe time to let Varly go for another top 6 player. Brooks is a must sign and Johansson is probably going to double his points next year as his talent is showing he belongs in top two lines. Green and Wideman gives you two talented offensive D men along with Alzner and Carlson. Maybe trade Green for another top forward or even move him up as a forward. Talent is there just have to get a vet to lead the team forward. I think Bruce has done a fantastic job and it’s tough to watch how frustrated he was watching his team get out worked and out played. A few goals off d skates and an over time win in game two could be a whole different story now.
Ted,
While I applaud you for your candour, I think there are some positives to be taken from this season. The team performs well year-in and year-out, they don’t need to learn how to win during the regular season, they have that down. They were a handful of games away from taking the President’s Trophy for a second year in a row. But what I see, as a VIP season ticket holder and long time fan, is a bunch of guys who have no urgency in their work. They all get paid a whole heck of a lot of money, and injured or not, a coach and the management need to motivate them. They are utterly unmotivated. I am sure you’re fielding a lot of crazy ideas, so I won’t hold mine back either, but I think this team could use a therapist, a team building experience and some real consequences for poor play. Four years is three to many to not learn from past mistakes. All sports ultimately come down to the bottom line, money – if the team isn’t making money, and the players aren’t making money, ie bringing championships, then something needs to be done. But if you’re happy with your players and coaches, then bring someone in to shed a different light on the situation, a motivational speaker for a year might do the trick to get everyone out of this ‘feeling sorry for myself’ attitude that isn’t acceptable.
From my perspective, the Caps got away from the new Defensive system they changed too, and fell into a mix of the ‘old system’ and the ‘new system’. It seemed, when the pressure was really on, they ‘forgot’ about playing a defensive style, and reverted to their old system. BUT not enough of their old system to play full on attack hockey. SO, they were left somewhere in the middle – which equates to losing hockey. The Rangers never really threatend the Caps, because the Caps new they couldn’t score consistently. The Bolts are about the same level as the Caps, and we just couldn’t stick to our system, we collectively panicked.
As painful as it is to suggest, I wouldn’t change anything. Let the new system settle in another regular season, make changes at the deadline if there needs to be some, but DON’T let the players off the hook by firing BB. Stay with the system, believe in it.
Thank you for your comments but a change needs to happen now. Letting a few days pass isn’t going to quell the anger of us, the fans. 4 straight seasons of disappointment from a team that should have made the finals 3 of those 4 years. I am and will always be a Caps fan but I won’t spend the money for season tickets this year unless proper changes are made. Hearing the same apology time and time again is getting old. Last your team and the fan’s team played with no heart and it clearly showed. IF you want us to continue to believe in this team then give us something to believe in by making the necessary changes to provide us with a team that has focus and a coach that can inspire the team and motivate them, because last night Bruce did none of those things.
It wasn’t the turnout I expected, however, I really enjoyed watching the Capitals play this year!! As a mom of two boys, both hockey players, all I can ask is that they try their hardest at whatever they do. I thought the Caps gave it their best effort. Thanks for a great season!
I too have been a loyal Caps fan for the better part of 30 years, and agree completely with the comments that we have the right players. Ovie, Sasha, Neuvy, the whole gang. But we also have the right head coach and GM. The two best acquisitions the team has made in the last decade are Bruce Boudreau and George McPhee. Before them the Caps were middle of the pack at best – making the playoffs at all was a good season. They brought the Caps to perennial powerhouse status. We have the right players and the right guys in the front office. We just need to be patient. Remember the NJ Devils a while back. Got blown out in the playoffs a couple times, then won the Cup! Be patient! DO NOT BLOW UP THIS TEAM!
Ted, tough way to end another stellar season. This is a great team, with a great mix of talent. Unfortunately there are two seasons in the NHL and we have sucked at the more important season two years in a row now. Good luck to you as you digest the season and analyze your next moves.
It’s easy to point the finger at Bruce, personally I don’t think he’s a great motivator, but the guys seem to respect him, so I’ll let it to you and George as to whether he stays or goes.
I think we have 3 young goaltenders that could start on any NHL team – we should look at moving one and bring in a veteran goaltender to help whomever mature. I think we could do better with our goaltending coach as well.
As everyone else, I’m a frustrated fan…. however I think radical change on the player front would be a mistake. I say we stick basically with what we have, make a few minor changes and hope for better Spring next year.
Good luck with your deliberations.
Mr. Leonsis
Thank you for the sincere letter. I wish other owners in the area would have the same heart you do, i.e. D.S. All I can say is that everything starts with the players. They are accountable for showing the passion of just playing hockey and not being paid for it. There seems to be no heart or grit in this team. Players are on the ice not coaches. Boudrea has tried hard to motivate this team but they have not responded. It is time to make changes to the people on the ice, not necessarily the coach. I know that is not popular to say, but that is just a quick fix that won’t solve the real problem.
Thanks for listening and I will always support the Caps as I have for years.
Ted thanks for being such a great and involved owner! George and recruiting scouting staff has done a great job in drafting young talent so that seems to be successful in my eyes. I think with all this great young talent that we might need to trade a Semin and Varly to pick up a proven UFA like Richards. I think we need that grit up front and have two top centres. Nick is good but I think had an off year so let him have a chance to prove he is the number 1. Johansson is very talented and love the way this guy plays. I think next year his numbers will double. I like the goaltending and think Holtby will be a number one. Defence has the core with Widemen and Green both healthy should be interesting. I’d love to see a vetran like a Richards brought in for the full year and grow with the team and not after the trade deadline. This way he can take the team along with OV and so OV doesn’t have to take so much on his shoulders. He played his butt off as did Neuvy but other big paid guys didn’t have the heart. Brooks is a key sign this off season. To a successful 2012 Playoffs next year!
Ted,
It really surprises me that with all the “Caps fans” in the area, how quickly they turn and are all about ripping the team apart because they didn’t move on into the third round of playoffs. Yes, I’m just as disappointed as everyone else (trust me! I’ve lost my voice from screaming at the tv during the last game!) I know our team needs to have some minor changes done but it seems that everyone is forgetting that just a couple of years ago (right before Boudreau got here) the Caps weren’t even making it into the playoffs. I agree with Andre when he said that “One of your highly paid players which will remain nameless but who was identified by tv broadcasters displayed a nonchalance that does not belong on a winning team”. If you’ve watched enough games, you will have noticed that you see him standing around the blue line (more often than not) waiting for a pass so he can have a breakaway chance for a goal. Breakaway chances are more for single glory not team oriented at all. He should be in the thick of it during the whole time just like everyone else. I take nothing away from him because what he can do with a stick and a puck is sick! But when the team, as a whole, works as one – that’s what has led us to the top every time! That’s what Boudreau has been teaching them. To work as a team and that has worked when they have followed his advice. So, I hope you will consider that when you are analyzing who should go and who should stay. In my opinion, Boudreau is one that should stay.
I love what you’ve done with this team so far. The issue as I see it is discipline. This team doesnt have it. They don’t play a full 60 minutes, they take mindless penalties night after night and can’t seem to change lines. I know they’re a young team but Boudreau got to reel them in or go. We will never win in the playoffs if we can’t handle the fundamentals.
Thank you for your thoughtful comments. Like so many others, we were shattered and can only imagine how the players and staff feel. While we recognize changes will have to be made, they will still hurt. Just as they did when we found out that greats like Bondra & Kolzig were gone. You, George McPhee, Bruce Boudreau and the other coaches, and these wonderful players have turned DC into a hockey town — something we never thought we would see. It was a great run. It’s sad that the bubble burst. See you at Caps Convention!
You need some winners on your team, other than a WJC in 03 Ovechkin hasn’t won anything (and men’s world championship’s don’t really count). Other than Arnott, has anyone else really led a team in the NHL or internationally to a title. Crosby by now has WJC titles, captained a stanley cup winning team and proudly has the golden goal, but he still had veteran winners on his teams. Whatever, the team i route for can’t even make the playoffs so at least you have a start.
I respect the comments to your fan base and the fact that you put them first in your intial thoughts after the disappointment. But the reality of the situation is that in this day and age, you have to shake things up. I believe that you have a formidable club at your disposal, and there are some nice pieces to build a championship. In my humbled opinion, I believe championships are built from the crease out. You need to address your goaltending situation and bring in a proven performer that has elevated his play coming down the strecth and within the playoff format. After that comes your defensive corps in which I believe needs a little rattling. A true shutdown man, which a clearly hard to find, needs to find his way to the Verizon. You have some pieces that could bring in some depth on D. To be honest, I would begin shopping Semin and Green. There’s a market out there for both of them and I think the return on their potential could fill some gaps in your plan in regards to depth and leadership. Finally I must mention as good a guy Boudreau is, it’s time to pull the trigger and look elsewhere for a different voice. Clearly, he must not have the right recipe to get your core going. Also, he has made some bad decisions in the past in regards to goaltending and never really solidified the situation. Maybe a fresh voice, younger voice such as Guy Boucher could elevate your teams play and keep them consistent in their efforts instead of having Bruce shoot his mouth off trying to protect his team’s weaknesses. This all coming from a Leafs fan must help you see their is always light at the end of the tunnel, but it seem without change yours maybe becoming more bleak as our’s continue’s to grow.
What a heartbreak! My husband and I are long time partial season and then full season ticket holders. We attended virtually every home game this year. After watching the loss last night, I turned to the Detroit-San Jose game. The intensity level of both those teams was so much higher than that of the Caps. I just don’t understand it. We love the team and rebuilding that has been done, but somehow the necessary spark and commitment for the playoffs just wasn’t there for this series. It’s a long time to October til we can start again.
I think the caps should allow their young guys from Hershey to fill up line up spots instead of keep bringing in Vets. Jason was invisible in the playoffs after such a great start coming over. They need to get Brooks back as UFA and guys like Gordon and Bradley. The core of the team is there and goaltending is there. Trade Semin and Varly and sign someone like Brad Richards who is a proven winner to lead OV on the first line. Backstrum and Brooks and Fehr on Second line, and gives you Johansson, Chimera and Bradley for a fast third line and Gordon, Hendricks and Beagle. I would put Green up forward with OV on the first line and let him play forward. If Wendal Clark can go from D to FW and be successful with Green’s speed and talent he should be able to do the same.
Hi Ted,
I’m a Bruins fan by heart, but I do pay attention to every team in this league. I think your biggest problem is that Ovechkin is the captain of this hockey club. Ever since Ovechkin became captain of the team, his point production has dropped tremendously. I don’t think he’s ready for that responsibility yet. I know Crosby is the captain, but he’s a little different. Ovechkin was on an avid tear through the league last season with 50 goals and 59 assists, but it could have been more if he wasn’t named captain. His production dropped immediately and lost the top spot in the league. He’s too serious and over-thinking everything he does. Make a guy like Tom Poti, Mike Knuble, or Matt Bradley be captain of the team and take this pressure off of Ovechkin, it doesn’t suit him well at all. He’s similar to Joe Thornton in a sense that he can’t handle that pressure. Joe is now the captain and handling it decently, but his point production suffered as a result of it going from 132-114 to now in the 70s. Give Ovi the A or leave him without any form of captaincy and watch him excel. Get Chris Clark back.
I appreciate that sentiment but this is a killer. It seems that Coach Boudreau is given a longer post season failure lease than Eddie Jordan was with the Wizards. I know you weren’t in control at that time but how much patience should we have when the same problems in post season continue on the ice as it did on the hardwood in the playoffs.
Thanks for being forthcoming and good luck in the future!
I appreciate your conciliatory tone, Ted, and agree that acting in haste won’t help the Caps. I hopethe Caps articulate a long-term plan for building this collection of players into a team that can win the Cup. This is obviously a longer-term project than we thought. Right now, we just don’t look close.
The team’s core group peaked 2 years ago; I would respectfully suggest that the GM & coaches have seen enough to evaluate everyone in the system by now. I hope it’s more clear now what’s missing & what’s needed.
Nobody with the exception of Ovi & Knuble plays like an untouchable asset at this point.
It is time to upgrade the Caps’ role-players, & address the power play.
It is time to add some leadership before the season starts, not at the trade deadline.
It is time for Ovi to step away from being a Captain & get his game back.
Ted, you have some tough decisions to make. I believe that the team is at a crossroads, of sorts. Time is running down on competing for a Cup with Ovi as the team’s centerpiece & driving force. And that’s a shame for him & for us.
I’m not going to say this team is terrible or that they don’t have potential.
However, they’re regressing. This team is worse then they were last year, and they’re a good bit worse than they were two years ago. This is all despite two additional years of coaching, maturity, and a trade deadline that brought in three veteran players. Their defense is better, but their offense has fallen off the map completely. And yet, their defense still fell apart when it counted most in this series. This team needs a change to move forward. It’s not going to be easy, but that’s what has to happen. If it doesn’t, there is no reason that next year will be any different than this year.
Also, the regular season IS different than the playoffs. If they weren’t, the Capitals wouldn’t be amazing at one and horrific at the other.
Ted,
While this last week was a huge disappointment, I want to thank you for 6-7 months of great hockey. I love this team and while last night was heartbreaking, you, GMGM, Bruce, the boys and your entire staff is outstanding. While I can’t afford season tickets, my wife and I go to several games every year and watch TV the other times.
Chin up – there’s next year!
Bob
Dear Ted, I could not be more proud to have you as our owner. Your class and smarts continue to show. Several things I have noticed the last 2 years. 1, Mike Green is not a very good defensemen. He’s good at trying to play in the rush and scoring, but when it comes to defense, hes sub-par. 2, Alex Semin needs to learn to hit the net when he shoots. Countless times i see him shoot the puck nowhere near the net, and take stupid shots. He also seems to take stupid penalties in the offensive and neutral zone because of his lazy defense. 3, we need to take Ovechkin off the point and move him to the wing on the PP. 4, our goalies are good, no doubt about it. They do however seem to let in a cheap goal every game. Once they reach the next level, look out! But until then, they cannot lead us to the cup. 5 and final, as much as i love Bruce in the regular season, when it comes to the playoffs, I’m not confident with him. He doesn’t seem to change things up when things are not working. So unfortunately, i do not think he is the right man for the job anymore.
This was a tough end to the season. But it already has me wanting to be October to be rocking the red again. Cannot wait for next year and thanks for listening!!
Please:
1) Don’t be too analytical about Semin. Three playoff years in a row he has been completely invisible when he’s been needed the most in ‘do or die’ spots in a series. He seems completely disengaged (plus the fact he refuses to participate in the one of the great traditions of Stanley Cup playoffs, simply growing a playoff beard, is super annoying). He unfortunately does not fit and it’s clear.
2) Please ban Chris Cooley or any other Redskin from the locker room- it’s like transporting bed bugs.
3) Playoff success of players, goalies, and coaches in Hershey has proven not to correlate with Stanley Cup playoff success.
4) Maybe remove the burden of the ‘C’ from Ovechkin and find a player who has won the CUP to come in and take over in that role. A special assistant coach with a ring might be a nice addition as well…
5) Please no longer allow your coach to utter things publically and at news conferences like “we were the number 2 team in hockey in the regular season…” OR “we’ve had the beast record in hockey the last 3 and a half years..”. The fan base has moved on from being happy with regular season successes. It matters NONE anymore and it’s annoying us further. We have the best player on the planet for a window of time. The last 2 years we have squandered incredible opportunity to win the Cup, with Pittsburgh going out early both years. We love Boudreau but enough is enough with reciting regular season accolades in trying to explain away pure failure in the playoffs.
Ted- our trust is with you but if you can, please get some effective people into the organization and into influential positions THAT HAVE WON THE CUP!
Mr. Leonsis, In all the years I have been a Caps fan I have enjoyed your tenure as owner the most. I, like all true Caps fans are disappointed. Every year is different and I look forward to next season (earlier than I had hoped). I know we could never grasp the depth of decisions needed to be made in the proffesional environment. I’d hate to see any players lost, but I also know it might be the only way to improve. It seemed our speed was not up to theirs and our fear of losing paralyzed us at times.
I wish you and the orginization the best in the decisions you have to make. And I will be here in NC rooting against the Canes and screaming at our team on TV.
Character, grit, passion and desire.
These seem to be the traits that it takes to seperate the ‘regular seasoners’ from the ‘Stanley Cup Champions’. Seemingly teams which have enough players who have these specific character qualities will be the ones who will elevate their game from that of the levels required to win in the regular season versus the heart and passion to win in post-season play. When winning the Stanley Cup is the collective pinnacle of a player’s existence… over that of fame, fortune, and personal achievements… the Stanley Cup will be the result.
Sadly, when I look at the Washington Capitals, I see a group of players who think that they can continue to play at the same heart and talent levels that it took to be a champion in the regular season… but then to not elevate their gameplay and passion to the required higher level of what it really takes to be a champion in the post-season. Talent alone will never capture it, it takes the heart of a champion. A couple players demonstrated this… but regretably not enough to get the job done.
Instead of firing the coach, I think the Caps need to get a few more players of ‘locker room Stanley Cup passion’, and then to lead by example with that same passion translated onto the ice… and the Stanley Cup will have a home in Washington, DC.
Another year of gloom and doom that comes to an early end. Another year of being disgusted and angry with a few absent and careless players(funny the same two come back year after year)Semin & Green. This team is on a good path(although I didn’t see anything wrong with the offensive focus and find that the defensive focus doesn’t make the team any better) I cannot and do not blame the goalie or Ovie and a couple other players. Backstrom had a bad playoffs but I’m sure he’ll bounce back, the two stooges that I named before are lost and hopeless causes. Green has no defensive qualities or assets, sure he has a great shot but should be on the 3rd or 4th line as a forward…he can’t help or prevent a beach ball from scoring in the defensive zone and appears to not always be present or conscious in his role. Anyways, thanks for trying and caring about this team, I still do and will although I’d like to see #’s 52 and 28 sail onward elsewhere.
Ted –
I do agree that there is a time now to sit back and not make any hasy decisions so soon after a very disappointing 2nd rd sweep. You cannot sit back and do little or nothing this off season. Changes must be made and damn loyalties to whom ever. The GM or the Coach. Personally I think Boudreau must go. Its time for a new voice in the locker room and no more maintenance days, optional practices. You either come to practice or find somewhere else to play. If you are hurt get your @ss in for treatment and rehab. I played baseball in college & my coach would not have put up for any of what I saw over the past week from this team. They for one acted like they were intitled to the CUP! Enough is enough! Some heads need to roll & it should start with the coach. AS for players….Semin is a waste of a jersey! He plays when he wants to play. Trade him now while you can still get something for him, maybe! After seeing his prefomance in the playoffs I am sure the other GM’s wouldnt touch him with a 20′ hockey stick! Sturm & Arnott were also a joke! So glad we didnt give up anything major for them. I would have rather seen someone from Hershey in the line up than, Sturm. Green needs to go as well! Eitther that or move him to forward. And one of the goalies needs to be traded for help and not draft picks! If you hold on to them all too long you are not going to get “JACK” for one. I.E see the LA Angels and Brandon Wood! One of the most heralded minor league players coming up and turned into a total bust. Should have traded him when they had the chance a couple years ago. Now they get NADA and are most likely to waive him. Personally I think it should be Varly or Neuvirth put up on trade block. Holtby should be the #1 Guy! I rode up in the elevator once with Irbe and even he said Holtby is the best of the 3! I think he knows what he is talking about. Sorry for the lengthy comment. We as fans do appreciate your honesty and personal interaction with us the fans! I do sincerely hope you will not stand pat and do make the necessary changes to get this team to a stanley cup! The fans are counting on you!!
Dear Mr Leonsis,
First of all, I want to say that I understand exactly how you feel. I’ve been watching all the Capitals games these recent years and I know you’re passionnate just as much as I am. This is why I’m writing to you today.
I’m a consultant-strategist and my job is to find solution when people think they aren’t any. Now it’s enough! I’m tired to see a bunch of talented guys like the Washington Capitals fail short year after year and I’m proposing to help. I’ve got experiences with the Collective Bargaining Agreement, I know everything about the game, I also had the chance to discuss a lot with a cousin’s husband, Julien Brisebois of the Tampa Bay Lightning and I want your team win the Stanley Cup next year and for years to come. I may be an idealist, but I have a dream and I guess my dream is the same than yours.
I’m asking for a chance to help you and help your team succeed. It may be a bottle in the ocean but guess what… I’m taking the chance!
Ted-
Thank you for your astute and kind letter. Dedicated and loyal fans are dissapointed and borderline angry. This year has been a rollar coaster going out on a very low, low!
I agree that immediate changes aren’t needed. Take time and assess then move forward. We have a GREAT team, but tweaking will be needed. What we did at the trade dealine made a huge difference. I hope changes made this summer look similar. Nothing drastic – but calculated!
Thanks for being the best owner in sports!! I will continue to Rock the Red all summer!
I absolutely agree with Mark Yantz. We are loyal fans and will begin counting down the weeks until next season probably by this weekend! We love the Caps and always will. They just need a major push in some way. Or something. Anyway, hang in there. We’re not going anywhere! Go Caps!!!!
Mr. Leonsis,
I like your attitude about the latest let down. Could you PLEASE buy the Redskins??
Fans seem to believe that we trying to accomplish a more defensive game in the “middle” of the season. If I recall correctly, I do believe it was said before preseason games had begun that I change is our style was necessary due to the outing from Montreal last year. It really just took effect after the skid in the winter.
Fans seem to believe we need a coaching change. What we simply do not see that you see, Mr. Leonsis, is the relationships between the players, the coaching, and the managing staff. I, for one, trust your judgment, alongside Mr. McPhee’s, in determining who is to stay and who has helped as much as they could for our future intents and purposes. We as pure spectators can bark all we want about the need for a coaching change, but in all honesty, we can never truly know the respect, care, and moods that occur in the locker room or conference rooms. This makes our gripes null and void and simply for venting purposes. I look forward to what is, hopefully, necessary and successful change.
My personal feelings on this year are of overall satisfaction. The fight this year to take the southeast was brutal. To come out on top of the east was phenomenal. I do believe there should be small tweaks in the lineup alongside possibly one major move. Just keep the heart in the locker room. Please, do not move the core, heart players. Move those with their emotions too loose or non-existing. I think we all know now who the face of that is.
As for Tampa and their win, they deserved to advance. The indeed outplayed us. The heart was shared with every single line, shift, and player. Roloson was as on point as he needed to be against us. Neuvirth was great, until maybe the last two games where his inexperience began to show, as was expected eventually. What we did get to see was a glimpse of a future NHL goalie coming up in our ranks. What a great future for this kid!
This year has proved to me that hunger is not enough. “Heart”. Heart needs to be alongside the hunger. Feed the soul and feel the effect. Next year……..
PS. Maybe that power play needs a complete makeover. This would have been a whole different series.
I would hope afer careful analysis that change is the operative word used and given action behind.. Agreed 4 years with the same nucleus has not yielded the satted goal of winning the cup. The coach takes the fall in sports and honestly in this case it should be no different. if this were a sales persons job and they couldn’t sell they’d be out of work. So why shouldn’t the coach be in this case.
Great Season but same old playoffs….
This team seems to lack discipline and accountability during the playoffs. If BB couldn’t fix this for the last 3 years I don’t think he is the man for the job. You could blame the players all you want, that they stopped following his systems etc etc. At the end of the day I don’t see him doing anything about it when they fail to follow his system. No accountability, the players need a more strict coach a coach who if you don’t follow you are sitting. And now it seems like these playoff issues have become a habit to this players. Which will only destroy our dreams of a cup anytime soon.
Anyways I been a Caps (4 year season ticket holder) fan since the 80′s and will still be one next year but I sure don’t like to see my money go to a product that is not producing anything. It would be a nice gesture of your part if you could give us at least a discount on the latest raised ticket prices. You probably won’t but you know we deserve something better than this last two wasted years with a product that only gets more expensive but fails to produce when it matters.
Ted,
It’s clear that this team the way it’s constructed (players & coaches) have accepted losing. I know everyone says the right thing after the loss but a week from now the players will be all around the world and another early playoff exit probably will not be the first thing they think about in the morning. Two of our top salary cap space occupiers were complete no shows. In fact one (#28) was so nonchalant that several writers have questioned if his mind was already on summer vacation.
Everyone says they need to grow together and move forward. But, if as a collective group everyone is accepting losing together there will be no moving forward. A wake up call, jolt is desperately needed. We need players that play with hunger, grit and heart! Hopefully you and management will be able to infuse some of that for next season.
A lifelong Caps fan.
Teddy, Thank You for an exciting season. We had some monumental wins and we have many great memories. You have created proud and loyal Cap Fans. Our time will come.
I know how you feel right row.
But in the middle of the season, I said to you that your coach was not the one you need to reach the Stanley Cup, and in fact I was right. I said to you to fired him, and replace him like New Jersey does it a couple of years ago.
Personnaly I think that your GM is not the best GM to bring the good player to Washington, and win the Stanley Cup.
So if you need a person who works in Hockey and can advise you, contact me, you have my e-mail with this comment.
Thanks
Stephen
Ted – You are the best owner in sports. As long time season ticket holders, my family and I thank you for your commitment to making the Caps a winning franchise and, in doing so, giving us so many wonderful memories. We are currently living in Europe and all of us, including my 93-year old mother, stayed up throughout the playoffs to watch our beloved Caps play, mostly at 1:00 a.m. We have lived and died with this team for so long, that we are, of course, bitterly disappointed in the result of the Tampa series. It was a stunning collapse and it certainly seemed that the Caps lacked focus and determination against the Lightening. It was heartbreaking. But the team is young. I have no doubt they’ll win the Cup soon and more than once. Lets go Caps!
I have been a fan of the Washington Capitals since 1984. Went to many games at the old Cap Centre and many many more at the MCI/Verizon Center. I have never been as disgusted by the effort and play out of this team like I am this year. I took it hard back in the late 80s early 90s when the Caps would overacheive and then run into a Hot Team or the dreaded Hot goalie. So many awful blown 3-1 series leads, but all the time, the marginally talented players like Kelly Miller, Mike Ridley, Pivonka, Kypreos, etc, would be giving it their all. You could just tell they were leaving it all out on the ice. This current group of overpaid d-bags have absolutely no heart. They repeatedly talk of Semin being enigmatic and touchy, but all I see is a guy who has wide open shots but sails them high and wide. I see a supposed #1 Centerman (Backstrom) being absolutely invisible and most of the time giving pucks away and hardly trying. Backstrom gave absolutely zero help to Ovechkin so I am amazed Ovi had as many goals as he did. I am just completely disappointed in how he played all season. I honestly hope he is injured because that would make more sense than him just sucking.
Mike Green was an absolute disaster on the ice all season. A complete wreck that did way more harm than good everytime he was on the ice.
All of these clowns are led by a coach that has zero ability to make adjustments. Apparently everyone in the hockey watching world has heard Tampa plays a 1-3-1 defense except Boudreau. I have zero faith in his ability to manage within a game. Much was made about his vaunted move to a more defense philosophy but all I see was a uninspired team with zero heart getting swept out of the 2nd round. Just a complete disgrace. They showed nothing. The Rangers scored 2 goals within 7 seconds. The Lightning scored 2 goals within 15 seconds. All that shows is a team that is weak, poorly coached, and far too fragile to play professional hockey. I blame Leonsis, GMGM, Boudreau and the entire organization for coddling these players like children. It was embarrassing to watch the display, especially since we had to see how professional Tampa Bay played. They had heart. They cared. They scrapped. They dug deep while the Caps did absolutely nothing.
I have paid a good amount of time and money on the Caps over the past 27 years. I have officially given up. I gave up on the Redskins when they repeatedly produced cr@p on the field and within the organization. Just an embarssment. I would much rather go back to the teams of the late 80s/early 90s than this collection of stiffs. Trade them all except Ovechkin. Everyone else on the team was a joke. How many soft/lucky goals can Neuvirth give up before it is his fault. How many times can a team score short side from along or close to the goal line on him because he isn’t covering the post well enough. The entire team was just lazy and had zero heart. I am done with them
I won’t give you advice on what to do with the team. You have plenty of armchair quarterbacks to do that. One accomplishment you can take great pride in is delivering on your slogan “Building America’s Hockey Capital.” I was there in 1998 when we played Detroit in the Stanley Cup finals. The Verizon Center was packed with Red Wings fans and it looked and sounded like we were playing our home games in Joe Louis Arena. Under your stewardship Washington has truly become a “hockey town.” The last two years in the playoffs I can count the number of opposing team jerseys I saw in our building each night. Last weekend I had a Caps shirt on running errands around town and I can’t tell you how many times people spontaneously yelled out “Go Caps!” That never would have happened 4 years ago. Some old-timers (like me) may occasionally laugh at the lack of hockey knowledge of these newbies in the stands. But given the sorry state of the other professional franchises in town (I’m not holding you responsible for the Wizards yet), you have given us a team to be proud of and brought our community together. That in and of itself is one goal you, your management and players have achieved!
First of all, I’m not from DC area but I admired the Caps for their style and speed. I was gravely disappointed by the performance of the team as the whole.
Ovi deserves a lot of respect and credit for the offensive rush of the Caps, but every video highlight shows that his limited moves and therefore made him very predictable to limit or crush. He is also very studied by every NHL and KHL coach. He may be a good C but Caps need a better and older C with a lot of real NHL play-off experience.
The team had no support for Ovi. All passes were given to him every time he was on the ice. Also, he did not look good on the point during the PP. Changes to PP had to be made during the series and Ovi had to be taken-off the point to rest for the next 5-on-5 shifts.
Goaltending. Neuvi played great, but he was studied well and his weaknesses exploded all the time in the series. BB had to try to use Varlamov after game 2, unless he had an injury, etc.
Finally, it looks like the coaches did not study secondary Lighting players at all. It is worth mentioning that the most damage to the Caps came from the Lighting’s third line. Caps were surprised, including BB, and it was very disappointing.
Nevertheless, with minor adjustments in coaching and defense this team in its current roster can crack any other team in the league.
Good luck Caps.
This team needs to re-evaluate the ‘C’… he is one of the most capable players in the league, but continues to be a one man show. until he can make players around him better, this disappointment will continue…
Tampa Bay was phenomenal and they play the type of game I applaud – skill, quickness, intelligence, hustle. If they win, it won’t be because they tried to just “out physical” the opponents…and they have a good shot at the Cup, I think.
I like BB a lot – I LOVE his loyalty to his players, I love the class he showed in speaking about the loss and his gratitude to the effort of the team. But our top core of talent needs a coach as exceptional in his way as they are in theirs and I don’t think BB is that guy. I esp think our ability to change on the fly was lacking. We’d try something, it wouldn’t work, and we’d keep doing it.
But it also must be said that luck plays a part: Wideman was a very key part of the puzzle after the trade and he went down a week before the end of the reg season. Varly was largely unavailable this year. Who knows what happened to Backs? (But someone should talk to him and get his own opinion…)
Ted:
“Accountable” is a pointless word if no action follows. It doesn’t necessarily mean fire the coach, but it might. It doesn’t necessarily mean trade high-profile players, but it might. Making changes doesn’t mean making stupid changes with no actual plan–and I see you are against doing that, which is good–but everything is not ok with this team. The playoffs, which should bring out the best in a team, bring out the worst in this one. Something substantial needs to change, or else you can expect the same next year.
Mr. Leonsis thank you, we know that this team has taken a huge step forward since 2005. I remember just a few years ago being able to run laps around the concourse during Caps games all the while high fiving Pens, Sabres, and Rangers fans.
You have done a remarkable job taking this franchise to the next level and it makes me so proud to see Verizon clad in red all season long. Thank you.
But there is huge problem with this team that needs to be addressed and addressed immediately. There is no reason that our young star laden roster could not take 1 single game from TB. A depleted Pittsburgh team pushed them to the brink without 3 of their best players.
TB’s 3rd liners were better than our 1st liners.TB lost two of their best players early in the series against us. There is no excuse for this years Capitals performance.
Last seasons debacle was our learning experience. This year should have been our redemption.
We need leadership that will light a fire under our players. We need players that will play their hearts out for 60 minutes instead of 40 minutes.
I am a season ticker holder and I have accepted the price increases the last 4 years with the hope that this organization will take the next step and bring DC a championship. But there is nothing worse than being swept by a team in the division that you’ve dominated for 4 years.
Ted, This team played without any heart. The top line got shut down as eaily as they did against Montreal last year. The team is a regular season team, not a playoff team. It is a team that needs to add heart and soul players who bleed hockey. Tampa added grit and heart in the offseason, and not any real talent. Any team that wants to be successful in the playoffs needs heart, but I didn’t see that in these players. There needs to be motivation to win the long, hard battles. We want to win the Stanley Cup, not the President’s Trophy.
Ted, Thank you for all you’ve done. The regular season product sells, but after so much underachieving in the playoffs, the plan is not working. Honestly, you have to look at coaching. We were unable to adapt to TB’s system. We were unable to shuffle lines and get the most out of players. We were not prepared and not ready. Our coach is like the business development guy who promised the big contract but never delivers. As much as Bruce is a good coach and great person, he is not right for the team…..the past 4 years prove this. Leadership has to make the tough choices. Please don’t let year 5 be more of the same. I am embarrassed to drive with the Caps license plates after such a humiliating performance…year after year after year. Please look for a new direction…the current is NOT working.
Let me start off by saying that I appreciate what you have done for this franchise and the DC area. I have been a Caps fan for over 30 years so have been through alot of disappointment with this team. I also appreciate that I am no longer outnumbered by opposing teams fans when I go to a Caps game.
I do however disagree with several of your statements from above. I don’t think that Tampa was the better team, they were the team that wanted it more. From the last four playoff year flameouts the only team that I think was better than the Caps was the 2009 Penguins. Talent does not win Stanley Cups, heart and hard work does. It appears to me the last years Canadians and this years Lightning were far better conditioned teams than the Caps and that is inexcusable.
Also I don’t believe you should be happy with winning the east and the southeast that means nothing if you don’t capitalize on it. Stop with all the talk about winning the cup until you put a team on the ice that has enough heart to go and take it. Take down all the division, conference, presidents and winter classic banners they all mean nothing. Do not hoist another southeast division championship banner it’s embarrasing. Clearly the southeast division champions are the Tampa Bay Lightning. The only banner that hang in the Verizon Center is the Bullets championship banner.
It takes great leaders to win a Stanley Cup the Nick Lindstroms, Sidney Crosbys and Jonathon Toews all live to play hockey. The Alex Ovechkens, Alex Semens and Nick Backstroms all play hockey to live. Maybe if they spent half as much time working on their game as they do driving fast cars and chasing skirts they wouldn’t be playing golf already.
If Bruce can’t motivate this talented group of underachievers maybe it’s time to find someone who can.
greetings from Saskatoon, Canada! Mr. Bettman needs to clone you Ted! You have a passion and drive for the NHL that I have not seen in 30 years from an owner.
I have watched the Caps meticulously this season because they draft a lot of Western Canadian kids. Trust me Capital fans… the best is still coming. You have a young stud of a goaltender in the wings named Braden Holtby and some character kids with tons of grit that are about to start playing in Hershey. (Garrett Mitchell, Cody Eakin among others)
Unfortunately I saw a lot of passengers on your team during the playoffs. Just to be politically correct I’ll only say that some were “imports”. With a little bit of tweaking, your team will be a true contender. Cheers sunshine and peace!
The Caps are a fun team to watch. Games are great entertainment. But in spite of how much we want them to be, they are not a team to believe in. The wheels have come off of my emotional investment. I’ll keep watching and going to games, but I can’t care this much going forward.
Ted,
Thank you for everything you’ve done to make the Capitals so interesting; it was a crazy season and a sharp contrast to last year’a up-tempo pace. It was major a disappointment to get swept by TB this year, but, in many ways’ that’s life. Collectively all we can do is pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and try again.
I think we’ve got a long way to go before we can take a serious run at the Cup, but I believe you and your team has enough time in the off-season to make the necessary changes.
Best of luck and have a wonderful summer.
Ted, someone has to be held accountable. The regular season means little when it comes to the playoffs. By and large, the Caps do not have a killer instinct and appear soft. They failed to show up for Game 7 against the Pens. They became the first #1 seed to blow a 3-1 lead last year against the Habs. They became the first #1 seed to be swept in the first or second round since the current seeding approach was put in place seventeen years ago. The message needs to be sent loud and clear that the effort, focus, and results are unacceptable, and that mediocrity will no longer be tolerated. I don’t know how you can possibly send that message without relieving Boudreau of his duties.
how do i email you?
i agree with this 100% from above:
“The “C” should be worn by a player that can lead a locker room by example, expressions of emotion are not examples of leadership. Those who wear their emotions on their sleeve are not grounded enough to lead, and those selected to lead the Capitals, certianly wear their emotions on their sleeve.”
and i also agree with this comment from above:
“This season was a step back”
Ovechkin Is no leader. Knuble or Arnott would be high candidates
get rid of Mike Green or make him a forward
get rid of Jeff Schultz he is the worst player on your team
get rid of Sloan
Acquire better D-minded Defesemen
Dennis Wideman is great it was a shame we lost him.
focus on Semin, he may be lazy but thats bc he doesnt get the credit and opps to shine but when he does ….what happens?
Semin is shadowed by 8 it took Arnott to fire that kid up hes possibly top shotta on the team.
focus on Nick Backstrom he is one of the best players in league but something is wrong with him, he has a mental block.
there should be work all summer long for this team to become a team
host a vacation for the players and their immediate families and build a real relationship with these guys. and allow them to build a real relationship with each other. no more commercials from Gabby hes a great coach but lacks respect ’cause he runs his mouth so much. Email me lets talk
Ted,
I am season ticket holder on and off for over 20 years despite residing in the Hagerstown area this whole time. It is a long drive which I love to make because of my love for the Capitals. I am unfortunately used to the playoff collapses. Theses last three years have been the worst however. Many times in the past we had players with great heart but we lacked the talent to get over the top, now however we are loaded with talent. We need heart, the heart of someone like Dale Hunter. Dale has turned into a marvelous coach at the junior level and maybe we need to ask him if he would like to try his hand at the top level. I know there is no guarantee that he will be interested, but I feel we should ask.
In no way do I ask for Bruce’s dismissal without a tinge of sadness. I really wanted him to succeed because he is a genuinely nice person. In the end however that may be his downfall. I wish for him great success in the future, but it is time for us to move on. If not Dale then someone else with the fire and intensity that he brings, someone to get the best from the great talent you have assembled.
I know you feel as bad as I do, maybe even worse. But we will dust ourselves off and make the changes needed to someday bring the Cup to Washington. I still believe in you as the owner to bring that dream home. Read my advice and consider it with all the other advice you are receiving and then let’s get ready to Rock the Red again starting in September. May God bless you and thanks for listening.
John
Ted, we’re all disappointed, for the fourth time in a row.
Somehow being swept doesn’t hurt as much as dropping
Game 7s. The failure was on the ice, not on the bench.
This team and this system could have won it all.
Tweak the roster, pick up a couple of veterans, and let’s go again.
One of the best coaches I ever worked with used to say, “If you lose by a lot, it’s the players fault. If you lose by a little, it’s the coach’s fault.” You lost by a little, so you don’t have to look far to find out where changes are needed. Still it was a great season. I’m not much of a professional sports fan, but the Caps are the only team I follow. You are the only team owner in DC worthy of the loyalty of your fans. Best of luck. I know you will make the right choice for your team. Hockey and basketball fans should thank their lucky stars that you are at the helm.
Continuity is an ineffective strategy with the wrong leader. The question for a great CEO (which you clearly are) is not “Should I fire this employee?” but “Would I hire this employee today if the position were vacant?”.
President Lincoln fired several great, distinguished and highly qualified commanding generals (Scott, McClellan and Halleck) before ending up with Grant. There was even a period of time during the Civil War when he and Sec of War Stanton assumed the role of commanding general under an advisory board (no, I’m not suggesting you coach the team). However, it is obvious that during the playoffs your current coach seems incapable of making the necessary strategic, tactical and motivational changes that are necessary to accomplish the stated goal of your franchise.
Bruce Boudreau seems to be a good man. But would you hire him today as coach of your team given your goal of winning a Stanley Cup?
Ted,
I thank you and the rest of the Caps organizatino for giving us some great times the past few years. I too, am frustrated and angered at the somewhat complacent appearance of some of the players on the ice. While others are crashing nets and getting bloodied every night, others wait for that one perfect shot and moment of glory. It starts with players I believe. If they don’t buy into the system and are not team players, then there is no business for them being here. I agree with your point about letting the steam out for a few days so people can calmly sit back and analyze what went wrong and devise a sound “blueprint” for the future. Again, thanks and I will still continue to support the CAPS! That is what a TRUE fan should do!
Bruce helped create the culture that is a big part of the problem. Also, when Arnott got here, it took 2 periods for him to see that this team wasn’t playing the right way to win in the playoffs. That was months into the “defensive conversion”, so that leads me to believe that bruce’s system wasn’t so great, or the players weren’t listening to him. Either way that’s an indictment of his coaching. Its time for a coach who won’t tolerate all the mistakes due to lack of compete level, it’s time for a coach who won’t resort to “loser-talk” of too many men penalty questions and goals that shouldn’t have counted.. no more excuses
This was a difficult year for many good teams around the NHL. The breaks just didn’t go your way, but that doesn’t mean there is a fundamental problem with the team. The Caps players and their current coaching are a good team. They’re also a likable group of guys that are easy to root for. Winning the Cup is a journey that takes perseverance and faith, not finding scapegoats when luck isn’t on your side.
I love this team, I’ve been a fan for a long time. I’ve suffered the ups and downs. Bore the losses and celebrated their wins. And pretty much knew that this season, we still were not ready to be Stanley Cup Winners.
It was never more apparent than the airing of the 24/7 HBO series. I am NOT a Penguins fan and never will be, but truthfully from ownership right on down to through management and coaching to the players culpability…it is one of the tightest run ships I’ve ever seen in the NHL. And it made me change my mind on that particular club.
While the players are the ones who are supposed to have the heart to make it on the ice, they need every inch of discipline from much higher up on down to the least utilized player.
This team/franchise needs to come together…now how do we make that happen? I want to be able to wear my sweaters with pride in a team I believe in. In an organization I know believes in itself.
You’re a fantastic owner Ted…I know how much you care for the team…But you have to see the chinks in the armor for what they are and have the nerve to address them head on. Its not easy…but if we are gonna win…it has to be done.
I’m sure you have heard the definition of insantiy right? Well That bodes the same for me. This management gets two weeks from me to show that they are willing to change the culture. If not, I will be watching from home instead of purchasing my seats. This whole playoff flame out is getting old. Not quite as old as keeping the same passengers on the plane.
P.S. Steve Yzerman has won just as many playoff series in his first year as ours has in how long Ted?
You know what is more stunning than watching my beloved Caps get swept out of the playoffs? Getting my credit card statement and seeing that I was charged TWICE to print each of my Caps playoff tickets. It seems as though I missed the fine print that you will be charged a SECOND print fee if you do not print your tickets at the time the order is placed. What a ripoff! Did Dan Snyder buy the Caps behind our backs??? Just lost a season ticket holder…….
Even though, it was a rocky season,we were able to come back and take east. We were pretty dominant against the Rangers,but as we got one step closer to the cup, everybody on the team just became nervous. Most of caps’ first touches were mishandled, there was no hustling for the puck, and goaltender did not seem very confident. While watching these games, I thought to my self “even I would battle harder than most of the players on the team.” Tampa won,. because they had that mentality, our guys’ play seemed as though they were playing in a charity event, it certainly didnt seem that it was second round of the playoffs. I am gonna throw something at u to help ur team in the next year’s playoffs. First, put an experienced goaltender in the net, Neuvy was not working out since game one. Second, let ovechkin do what he does best, and improve ur defense. I dont see why Ovi, the scoring machine, has more hits than everyone else on the team. Seriously, Caps defense dissapointed me, at one point I thought of going on the ice and teaching ur “d” how to finish their checks.Ill stress it again, dont try to transform ur offensive unit into a defensive one, just work harder on ur defense. If Ovi doesnt score 60 goals next year, I’d know that u didnt listen to me
Great post, Ted. Thanks for all you do for this team and us fans.
Please make an effort to resist some kind of ‘rebuild’ as suggested by many above. Tossing players and coaches to the wayside because of 4 games isn’t the answer. Fans for 15 teams are gonna be upset that their teams don’t have the Cup in a couple weeks, so we’re not alone. That pain, sharp as it may currently be, is necessary for future success.
We have great tools on this team, all of them represent pieces of the larger puzzle. From the coaching staff and administration to the AHL call-ups, we possess the greatest talent-base in the NHL.
The ‘system’ that was developed earlier this year was a bold move, and paid great dividends in an area of our game where we were struggling. Props to the organization for taking it in and making it pay off. The price we paid for that repair was a reduction in goals scored, but the benefit to the overall game was significant.
For me, there are 2 things missing from our game. First is a killer instinct. Second is flexibility and the ability to adapt to a different opponent. Historically, these are the factors that have hurt us in the playoffs. While our system gave us significant success against New York, it proved ineffective against Tampa. They WERE the better team in those 4 games, as you have rightfully acknowledged. They outplayed us, outworked us, and they kept their focus thruout.
The Capitals are a fantastic team. Continue the push, tweek the game where its needed, and get us ready for next season.
Best to you and the Capitals!
Ted,
I’m sure my input wil get lost in the sea of comments that have already hit your blog. Regardless, I still believe. Having stated that though, I simply can’t be a fan of your Washington Capitals any longer.
I put my final thoughts, in brief, on the home page of my blog so as not to add to the billions of pixels about your Capitals on comment sections. http://singingfromthecrease.wordpress.com
Tampa Bay did deserve to win. They get great kudos from me for hiring Guy Boucher and having a team that was most certainly “All In”.
I can’t be a fan looking from the outside any longer, so I have to do what’s best for me. Thanks for being you Ted.
GO CAPS!
Ted, please don’t listen to the people overreacting. Thank you for your comments here. I know you’re doing all you can to get this team to win a Cup, and I trust that the decisions you make will have only that goal in mind. Don’t let the naysayers get you down. Winning a Cup is not an easy thing to do. You have the right approach. Take some time, and make sure the decisions you make are at least well thought out. We can only hope that the changes that are made will work out for the best. I appreciate everything you’ve done and are doing for this team.
Please don’t consider this an apples and oranges comparison, but the Pittsburgh Steelers don’t cave to pressure from the fans or media. They stay the course. They had three coaches over the past forty years, and have succeeded. It took Bill Cower years to win the big one. If you hire the right coach, you stay with them and be patient…
Ted,
Thanks for your comments. I hope that not too many changes are made up top, but rather starting on the blue line and working your way back. Our defense is lacking and, while Neuvi has an amazing glove, he leaves much to be desired in the crease. One thing I noticed when we were in the Tampa offensive zone was that there were three or four bolts protecting the goal every time we would crash the net. I hope you consider Holtby in net next season as he seems to have a better handle on stopping the puck when it is in the paint. I’d love to see Bruce back next season with only some minor tweaks and healthy players. God love ya, Ted. Here’s to next season! GO CAPS!
Thank you for the classy letter Mr. Leonsis and you are right in waiting to not make any decisions until emotions have settled down. I hope that coach Boudreau doesn’t lose his job b/c I don’t think it should all fall on his shoulders, but it’s your team and you must make that call.
LA Kings fan here so I know a little bit about playoff disappointments! I understand you Caps fans are upset but there is lot more right with this team than wrong. Although there is a ton of talent the Caps are still a young team – 8th youngest in the NHL. The experience over the last two playoff runs, brief as they were, will pay dividends down the road. If the old saying “You have to learn how to lose before you can learn how to win” is correct, then the Caps have learned a lot.
we dwelled on the horrible officiating , they didint . unfourtunately it went both ways but at very bad times … it seemed we couldnt get over it . I think they battled as hard as us all the way to the end . they got there brakes we didnt . they were more optimistic … its amazing that the talented goal tenders we have cant shine in the playoffs . you have to be the best defensive team to win a stanely cup and that starts with gaoltending if your goalie doesnt stand on his head you have the slightest chance to win a champonship . tim thomas is bailing the bs out when needed b , roloson bailed them out and he was better then neuvirth … he played way to far in his net and the crash the net style praivailed cuz of it roloson came out of his creiss and drew penalties . thats where the bulk of tampa goals went and also exploited neuvirth week blocker side
Will you please stop with this “we are what our record says we are” crap. We’ve won 2 playoff series since we drafted Ovie. Our record when it matters says we are crap. Fix it.
I think that we are truer to the team we had last year. The notion of having a great defense is fine, but or forwards were constantly on there heels so we didn’t get that fluidity that we saw last year! Get a new Coach with an offensive mind and let’s outscore everybody!
Thank you for caring, Ted. It helps to know we have an owner who will analytically look at how to make this team better while still listening to the fans and improving the overall fan experience.
Ted -
Your comments show what a classy person and owner you are. You are a credit to the NHL and to professional sports. In a moment when your disappointment would make it easy to be critical and negative, you chose to be gracious and professional. Professional sports needs more owners like you! I believe we also have one in Tampa (thank goodness)! Best of luck in the future!
In a nutshell, all I can say is that this team lacks focus. Twice they get successive quick goals scored on them.
Besides I never agreed with change from offensive style to defensive style of hockey. Why get away from the team’s strengths? Can’t let a 2 week period in December change your identity.
They were a better team last season when a guy named Halak performed a minor miracle.
This season was a step back
we are one of the most successful teams in the nhl… keep the boys and their coach… we will breakthrough… we want them to believe so we must believe in them
Stop apologize Ted. There’s no surprise with the caps elimination. If you’re tired enough to loose email me. Former Nhlers knows the game and can be great guy too. Unfortunately, you don’t win championship that way. Building champions needs great management an vision and obviously It’s missing here.
Mr. Leonis,
you are a class act and have tried everything in your power to put a great product on the ice. However, if the goal is to win the Stanley Cup, finishing first is the regular season loses some of its meaning. Unfortunately I think if you want the Cup you will need to change the chemistry of this team. One of your highly paid players which will remain nameless but who was identified by tv broadcasters displayed a nonchalance that does not belong on a winning team. I think despite Boudreau’s efforts, the Caps have not been able to play ‘as a team’ in the playoff; too much is expected of the starts and not enough of the supporting cast. Also an experienced goaltender in the fold might help the two brilliant young men you already have enlisted to mature into superstars. I think the roster as it stands today will no longer buy into BB’s system and you need to swap one of your young ‘superstars’ for some character. So close and yet so far away.
While I was travelling (ironically, I was in St. Pete during game 2!) and did not get to see every minute of each game; what I did see indicated to me that Neuvirth certainly performed well enough for the team to win. Unfortunately, he was let down again and again by those in front of him. The series result was not what one would have anticipated, but anyone familiar with the Bolts should have known that they are a formidable opponent. I look forward to better things at this time next year …
The plan has been worked and results haven’t been delivered. Accountability to that plan must be delivered. Where that does get delivered rests on your shoulders. The only decision I would be disappointed in would be status quo. That being said, accountability rests in order, with you, then the GM, then the coach, then the players. I believe you’ve done your part, and McPhee has acquired boat loads of talent through very savvy picks and trades. That leaves the coach. As much as I like Boudreau, I think he has proven he doesn’t have “that certain something” to get NHL players to excel in the playoffs.
Thank you, Ted. Looking forward to next year.
I thought Ovi, Knuble and Erskine tried as hard as they could, even if they did not get the best results. We do have a lot of passengers on this team, and the criticism of our team is biting — soft, lazy and no heart, also known as “Alexander Semin.”
Pretty pathetic that a Crosby/Malkinless Pens team can push the heck out of the lightning, a team that the Caps should clearly be more familiar with, and that same Caps team cant muster a win. That speaks volumes to the coaching, and sheer leadership in the locker room. The “C” should be worn by a player that can lead a locker room by example, expressions of emotion are not examples of leadership. Those who wear their emotions on their sleeve are not grounded enough to lead, and those selected to lead the Capitals, certianly wear their emotions on their sleeve.
Another year, another disappointment. I am not so calm about this as many others appear to be. You are a great owner and have brought pride to a franchise team that is not typically a “hockey town”. I was there when the Caps got swept by Detriot in the Stantley Cup and we had problems selling those games out. Not the case now. I have spent a small fortune for me and my family to continue to be the avid fans that this town needs. Not to be an armchair quarterback but frankly teams are built to win championships, not to simply make the playoffs. This team is not getting any younger and two great opportunities have sliped by now. Most teams are not fortunate enough to have this kind of talent year and year out. Beaudreau is a great coach but after 4 years of chokes and disappointments it is time for a change. This team needs more discipline and is running out of time. Goalies are very good, but not great. They are young and have some time but the clock is ticking on most others. I am crushed as a fan again and hope for some aggressive changes in the coming year. Ovie needs to stop trying to carry this team as it has shown not to work. Sorry for the rambling – I just want a championship team already!
Ted:
I am a native Washingtonian, a former season ticket holder, the proud purveyor of my Scott Stevens “Shape Up With Milk” poster, which is framed and remains in my garage, and now live in Los Angeles.
This season, I allowed myself to become 12 again . . . I am despondant. The Capitals mean so much to me.
I am so impressed with your stewardship, and your e-mail above. That is what was needed. I have every confidence in the world that, with you at our helm, that the Washington Capitals will be fine. Every decision you make will be carefully planned, carefully executed.
Thank you again.
Tom
Let a few days pass? You’re joking, right?
We’ve let years pass, and sitting around watching this team crumble over the last week should have given you and the management plenty of time to make the proper decisions – I know it gave me enough time to decide I can’t support this team anymore as long as nothing changes.
Boudreau is a great person, but he’s not the right coach for this team, sorry.
I agree with most of your note. I don’t believe their goal tending was better then ours. I have follow and been a Caps fan for 30+ years.I remember Kolzic as the skipjacks goalie. I remember opening the scoop.I have been and will be a loyal fan so please think about this. The additions made at the deadline were great adds, please do not let Arnott or the others get away. Arnott has and will continue to add something the Caps has always been missing that is a core gut determination to be better. We keep falling back and coasting on the fact that we can catching up if we want The Caps need to get past that they need someone to push Semin, Green and all the other players. I watched Arnott for years and he is that type person. you have the team you just need the people on the ice and in the locker room to challenge them, too show them 20 min of work is not enough they have to play 60 and never let of the gas. Your additions were your best players I hope you see that. Thank you and the whole team for a great year I am bummed now but eager for next season.
You were great. Players were great. Tough last four games. IDK what was going on. I know the org. must be receiving a lot of hate right now but I support you all.
I wrote you last year and am saying the same thing. BB does not seem to be able to coach or motivate the players to follow a system. BB does not pay attention to details in the playoffs. The Caps seem to have conditioning issues as well. He is in over his head.
My family is still supporting and loving the Caps. It was a great season – HIGH highs and LOW lows. We appreciate your honesty and integrity in the manner that you own and operate this team. You are doing the right thing by taking the time to weigh options rather than jump right into dismantling the team. I know that you want a deep run for the cup next year as ardently as all of us want it. We’re still with you.
I’ve been faithfully rooting for this team for over two decades now, so I was a fan before you were the owner and will always remain a fan. I said at the trade dead line that no acquisition this team could make would possibly win them the Cup this year, even if they traded for Mike Richards or something because the leadership of the team, that is, the coaching was no longer something the team was responding to and it was obvious. Then we traded for Arnott and things began to change and for the first time all season they looked like they were making real progress. Bruce is a nice guy and his old system was fun and it was cool making the playoffs with him in that great first run. Its time to move on though. He obviously had no command of the team in Montreal and no answers and he had no command of the team in Tampa again. The power play fell apart last summer despite having some of the most talented players in the world and it never recovered. Backstrom improved non stop until this season and was outplayed by a rookie in the playoffs- he never showed up this season after signing a ten year contract. If Bruce can’t get him to play I can’t see how they can coexist moving forward. He was one of the only players to produce last playoffs and if he had done so again we would probably have won at least a couple games. The vaunted defense fell apart this series and the penalty kill as well. The fish rots from the head. It’s time for Bruce to go.
Ted, well put on the 2nd round. Emotions are difficult sometimes to keep separate from making sound business choices.
Starting as a youngster going to Hershey games, I was hooked on hockey and the Washington Capitals. THANK YOU for what you have done with this organization and are no doubt going to do for this team going forward with your passion, commitment, and attitude toward being the best.
Ted,
This may sound crazy but i guarantee you a coach who can win it all and get the most out of his players by developing mental toughness is FRANK ANZALONE. He is currently head coach in Quad City. This is the guy to lead you to the Stanley Cup. Forget roster changes. Sign Frank to a 1 year contract and get out of his way. This team has all the talent it needs to win the cup.
I am just finishing your book. I have no doubt that you will make the right decision. This season was a success for you and your team. Overall, you were highlighted in an HBO special, played in the Winter Classic and made two rounds of the Playoffs. Being a Sharks fan, I know the slim margin between success and failure. I appreciate that Doug Wilson chose to keep players like Marleau and Setoguchi even though their performances in the past have had fans asking for their heads. Look what happened last night. You have a great group there. Believe in them and they’ll believe in themselves next season.
I love the Capitals and have for over 20 years. That being said, I have to disagree about the goaltending. I think Neuvy couldn’t have played any better than he did. He is definitely a superstar goalie! Thank you for a wonderful season!
Ted,
Thank you for being such an awesome team Owner! Its so refreshing to have a sports owner in DC who makes an effort to reach out to us fans and care so much about his team! You along with George Macfee have truly made the Caps a first class team. And while us Caps fans are hurting today I know you guys will make the right moves to bring a Cup to DC. Its been almost 20 years since this city has won much of anything but I know with your guidance the Caps will bring a Stanley Cup home! Keep up the good work!
Ted, Obviously, the current Caps team and coaching staff is not working well enough together to allow us a playoff game in June. This season ending truly did not live up to my expectations nor was the half-assing I saw from players against TB. I expect to see the same passion from our highly paid players, as you see from your fan base. I will leave it up to you, George and others to figure out what needs to be changed and hopefully we will have better results next year.
Except that the Lightning weren’t the better team. The Capitals clearly had the better team, but didn’t execute well enough. There was no drive, no heart, no willingness to do what it takes to go the next level, while the Lightning had all of those.
Also, the Lightning clearly out coached the Capitals. Sorry, but something needs to happen with this team to get to the next level, and I don’t think the players are the problem.
Mr. Leonsis, you are the only person that has the power to do something. SOMETHING needs to change. Get it done.
Lifelong Capitals fan here, and like the first two posters, I’d like to thank you for fielding such a talented and entertaining team (I think there are a few bars in Dallas that would like to thank you, too).
Like you and the rest of the Caps’ fans, I’m absolutely gutted by the way the season ended. We all have opinions about what changes should — and should not be made — and not that you asked for mine, but I don’t think George McPhee or Bruce Boudreau should be replaced. If anything, Coach Boudreau deserves (but won’t get) Coach of the Year consideration. To go through such a massive philosophical and schematic change in mid-season and still win the Eastern Conference is extraordinary.
It’s natural that there will be some tweaking of the lineup, but I think the overhaul for which many fans are calling would be more detrimental than beneficial. We all hate losing, but yours is an extraordinarily talented team that is getting close.
Thanks for running your team in such a first-class manner — already looking forward to next season.
Hey Ted,
I think you are a great owner, but you don’t need me to tell you what Einstein said about insanity. If some of these players are unable to be motivated, its time to move on from them and if its just that they aren’t motivated, it may be time to move on from Bruce/George. Lets not forget that since the Caps started rebuilding, the Lightning have won a cup, dismantled, rebuilt, and just swept the Caps en route to the Eastern finals.
I’m tired of investing my hard earned money in a team that pays millions of dollars to “superstars” who refuse to show up when it counts.
I wish you the best, and I hope next year is a good one for both of your teams.
Only take fan feedback from this week as a sign of how much everyone loves this hockey team. We care so much more because of the way it has been established (so many guys are ‘our own’ from Hershey and draft picks), not because the team wins a lot (although that helps)! I trust in you guys to keep improving the right way!
The Boss, George Steinbrenner, had required that all new members of his team, sit through a showing of Pride of the Yankees with Gary Cooper. Corney? Maybe. But he was trying to show that being a Yankee was a responsibility, a total commitment, even a way of life. I don’t think you need to become a Trappist to be a good hockey player but you need to have a commitment to the goals of the team, on ice and off, if you want to seriously contend for the Stanley Cup. On ice effort and locker room attitude are not the problems here. The rest of the day/night, with inordinate time spent burning the candle at both ends, is what is hurting us. The twenty-somethings on this team, take their cue from the guy with the “C” on his jersey. That is a critical and full time responsibility throughtout the season and the playoffs.
Thanks for the great season! also almost more importantly thank you for your candid honesty regarding your team!! Its definitely refreshing to read something that us as fans saw, but you wouldn’t think the teams owner would see the same thing. Usually you see a PR statement and no heart. If the players showed the same heart this past week we would be looking forward to the next round.
Pixels dont cut it anymore. Action has to be taken.
As a long time fan of the Washington area sports teams, I can’t tell you how thankful I am that you are the owner of the Capitals. Your accountability and wise counsel is much appreciated! I agree, we were outplayed, plain and simple at pretty much all levels. I am confident you will make the right decisions in the off season.
As a Caps fan since year one, I am disappointed, as I have been in the past, that the team is out of the hunt for the Cup, but am already looking forward to next year.
Obviously BB, GMGM, and the Tedster have some work to do, and hopefully their work will pay dividends next year. I don’t think that onus for the loss should be entirely on BB’s shoulder, he made mistakes I’m sure, but he also made a number of moves that made a difference, and some of the STAR players were MIA!
I guess I will root for TB, as they are a good team that played well.
Looking forward to next season, so LET’S GO CAPS!
Very classy post and thanks for what was a great season despite the devastating early(ish) exit. Sometimes I wonder if Ovechkin’s aggressive, unpredictable style makes it hard for his teammates to play with him during crunch time. He seems to take too much on his shoulders at times and when he makes an unforced error, or several in a night (I strongly believe he made more unforced errors than any NHL player this year and I think that would be a very telling stat to investigate), it becomes contagious and his teammates panic once he takes too much on himself to no immediate avail.
Now, I don’t think his unforced errors were problematic this particular series, but something just seemed “off” with him. He seemed to be hogging the puck at times and woudln’t pass in critical situations when teammates were wide open. There were times of brilliance, but we need him to be a rock during the playoffs, not so much a virtuoso. We certainly live and die by him.
In what appears to be all too often, Ovi breaks down the ice with the puck too quickly for his teammates to catch up with him. By the time they reach the top of the offensive zone, he’s already shot the puck on goal and there’s no one there for a rebound. Or his shot gets blocked by one of the 2-3 opponents he is single-handedly trying to take on. This, of course, has made for several of the most fun-to-watch goals when this tactic has worked, but it’s also lent a hand to our playoffs failure in my humble opinion.
Don’t get me wrong, there were times this season where he was an exceptional play maker and you can see the enormous potential in that regard. But I hope his performance is scrutinized heavily during the off season so that he can adapt to his teammates better, not vice versa, because clearly it doesn’t work against opponents playing at the top of their game. He’s no doubt the best “backyard” player in the world – but how can be become the best NHL team player? His leadership skills continue to improve and I think with honest reflection, analysis, and hard work, so can his all around game.
I’m not trying to sound too harsh towards Ovi and I certainly don’t think he should bear the burden entirely on his shoulders for our loss. We are lucky to have him. But we need to not tip toe around the Russian Machine. Boudreau said last season that he felt it wasn’t his place to tell the “best player in the world” to change his game. BB is not hesitant to get in his players faces, although Ovi does seem to be an exception.
These are just the observations of one fan, and I’m sure that there is subjectivity in my popints, but I hope you might consider my overall message.
Thanks for everything you’ve done with the Caps. I LOVE Ovi, but sometimes we need to prod the ones we love, even when we have so much to thank them for.
GO CAPS!!!
PS
I think Ovi is at his best when he is NOT playing point. I think he should focus on being in the middle, near the goal mouth. With Mike Green and Wideman out, however, there were few other options, and that’s just a tough break and you can only do the best you can with what you have. And we should salute our players for giving 110%. It’s not from lack of trying or caring that’s for sure! I think that under your ownership, we continue to have a bright future and I am thankful for that.
Ted,
You are a wonderful owner. I’m proud to be a caps fan and season ticket holder. This postseason was a HUGE let down. Like you I am scratching my head trying to figure out what happen after we looked so good against the Rangers. This is what I came up with.
1. We came into the series feeling way too confident.
2. Tampa clearly outworked us in every aspect of the game.
3. Tampa played with more heart, they wanted it more then us.
I think that’s all I need to say about that, we all know how Tampa just flat out beat us good.
Moving forward I do not envy you. I know you will need to make a lot of important decisions. No matter what you do I just hope the changes you make will inspire the players to leave it all out on the ice in the playoffs next year.
Looking forward to rocking the red next season!
Ted, great post. You are a stand-up owner and I am proud to be a fan of your team. GO CAPS!
Of all the playoffs losses, this one stung the most. Advice will be offered in abundance but at the end of the day, you and you alone will have to make a tough (or several tough) choices. I know you are experienced in this area but don’t let inertia, emotions, and a sense of perhaps false loyalty dominate your decision. Professional sports is a business and you don’t want your customers to leave. If the writing is on the wall, you have got to let go what you thought would work and hoped would work and find a different way.
Good luck. We will all pout for some time but look forward to some real change this year. It is broken so please fix it.
Thanks for all of your effort and for providing us a venue.
Thank you for a GREAT season and all the ups and downs!!!
Unbelievable highs this season, coming from out of the cellar, and now an unbelievable low.
I understand the need for patience so that non-emotional actions rule, but please, as a long time fan seeing this window at the chance of a cup closing, make changes that will make a difference! This window will close faster than we know it!
See you next fall.
I can’t tell you how reassuring it is having you as an owner for this team. It’s easy to be a team owner in times of great success, but painful times like today require an owner who has the confidence not just of his team but of the fans. You appear to have the former, and you clearly have the latter. Do what needs to be don, Ted, and we’ll see you next fall.
The coach does not make changes or adaptations in-series. Although a good teacher, he is not a playoff tactician not a motivator. Key players who prefer to sit in the grandstands must go.
Just don’t charge for the second round tickets and take it out of the players money for the round and we will call it even.
You (publicly anyway) control your emotions so much better than I and many other fans. Change is indeed necessary, but you’ll be more successful with your calm, patient, analytical approach than I would be with my knee-jerk emotional approach! Thank you for staying pragmatic when so many of us are unable to do so.
I hope next year is better in the post season, even if we get knocked out in the 2nd round again. Let’s play games we can be proud of. I didn’t see any game in round 2 this year to be proud of. Contrast this with the Flyers/Bruins game 2, where the Flyers played their hearts out and simply got beat. Flyers fans can be proud of that game 2 despite the result.
As Ron pointed out, at least we have the Winter Classic! And another Eastern Conference regular season win. See you next year. Let’s Go Caps!
My heart is heavy, not for me, but for the players. I know they wanted to win and I can only imagine how they feel by seeing the looks on their faces and hearing the heaviness in their voices during interviews last night. I am proud of this team and proud to be a Caps fan! I can’t wait for next season to start! My only request is this – please do what you can to bring back Brooks Laich. His attitude and work ethic would be sorely missed.
Ron, that is precisely why the Caps will never go anywhere. The Winter Classic was nothing. Beating Pittsburgh in a regular season game was nothing. I guarantee you that when they lost that game, they had no trouble sleeping that night. But the Caps, and you, think that such a small victory was in some way meaningful and powerful. It was not.
The Caps need to refocus themselves and forget this obsession with Pittsburgh. They need to rebuild this team slightly away from flash-and-dash, and towards a grittier, more two-way style. For playoff wins, they need to have a team that can wear other teams down on the cycle, to make teams pay the price behind the net and along the boards. Right now, this is not the case. No team fears the Caps in the playoffs, because they make Charmin look like galvanized steel. The Caps couldn’t cycle against a PeeWee AA team as currently constructed, let alone a team of adults. Why do you think the Pens, minus their stars, took the Lightning to 7 games?
And forget the obsession with Pittsburgh that apparently so many, including Bruce, cannot let go of. It’s an embarrassing addiction.
“I am so very sorry we let you all down.”
Saying this means a lot to me. Taking accountability for performance means a lot. Thank you for being a standup person. Lots of blame to go around but the buck has to stop somewhere.
I was expecting to hear the same kind of thing out of the locker room last night. I was very disappointed that neither our Coach nor Captain could bring themselves to accept culpability for what happened. To me this is worse than losing.
Do you watch NASCAR?
After every race the winning driver always thanks the fans. Drivers that finish poorly, APOLIGIZE to their fans, sponsors, teammates. They understand that while they may not be solely responsible for winning or losing that they are the front man for everyone else who makes winning or losing possible.
Thank you Ted! We just have to keep working at it and right now I do not have any ideas on how to improve because they are all fueled by knee-jerk reaction. I believe in the organizations wisdom….the correct decisions will be made.
Need the next layer of talent Ted. Lets get young again in spades: Orlov, Kuznetsov, Eakin and Holtby.
As for Bruce, I have to say as good an Xs and Os coach he is, he does get tight and wound up which I think cascades down. And, he plays it too safe: why did we not go with a healthy Varlamov last night? Neuvirth has never had this kind of workload (I don’t think he ever played back to back games). His confidence was shaken as well – losing 3 straight.
Everyone said the Caps should have gone after Thomas before the season began, then Niemi and then Roloson before the deadline, and then Vokoun at the deadline – veteran goaltending is a proven formula in the playoffs. We are paying the price for that experiment.
Changes need to be made – most certainly. But, we will come out better and stronger as a result.
Thanks Ted, it’s difficult to be angry when we see a level headed leader such as yourself being realistic about things. Here’s to next year
I know it is too late to say know, but i feel like if we played them with the old system, run&gun or whatever you call it, we would have had a better chance at winning the series. We played exactly how Tampa wanted and that’s where I see out couching stuff failed. We should have tried to outscore them. Sorry, had to vent.
That was painful to attend last night. Nothing went right and no one could do anything about it. I love the Caps but those guys on the ice last night are a long ways from being ready to dominate like they should. They’ll get there, I’ve got faith. Good season. Go Caps.
We are building a hockey town and that is what matters! Thanks Ted, Bruce, George and all the players. Reflect this summer and come out swinging in the fall. We all still love our team!
Class act Sir. Tampa fans thank you for the props.
I live in the Tampa Bay area. The series against the Caps was one of the best I’ve ever seen. The Caps ability to comeback and keep it close made it impossible to relax until the buzzer sounded. The only thing better than the series was your first class, gracious and very objective analysis. You have a great team, and your team and fans have a great owner. Thanks for making hockey the gold standard for professional sports by upholding the ethics,team-first,and sportsmanship that define the game.
Ted – as a fan since 1988-89, I have had to withstand the old “curse” – when you came, I wiped the slate clean. New owner, new players, new coach, new arena. And now, 2 years in a row of heartbreak. While last year was an epic failure, this year hurts more. Maybe because it’s fresher, obviously. But maybe it’s because the expectations were that we would learn from our prior playoff exits the past 2 years and grow from it. The words were there, the system change was there, and generally speaking the execution was there, at least in the regular season and the 1st round. To have it all fall apart in round 2 is stunning. No lie, Tampa was prepared. The bounces didn’t go our way (that’s the understatement of the year!) But shouldn’t we have been able to adapt? Easy for me to say, I know, but somehow we have to learn how to adapt quicker, to be more nimble. Otherwise, our opponents will continue to figure us out and we’ll be left scratching our heads and watching from the outside.
Thanks for a great season! This year had a lot of ups and downs, but just remember all the people in December who said “Mark my words, the Capitals won’t even make the playoffs”. The front office pulled out some great acquisitions and it is unfortunate that Dennis Wideman was unable to return in time.
“They adhered to their coaches’ system better than we adhered to our coaches’ system.”
By this you surely meant, “We were outcoached.” It doesn’t take much in depth analysis to realize this was the case. The lighting played a 1-3-1, and we couldn’t adjust.
Best owner in professional sports. You have a great team; it will continue to improve. I know it will.
Go Caps, and see you next season!!!
Ted,
You are the consumate professional. As you know, the changes and additions you make will be watched closely and scrutinized by all. I trust you will do the right thing, as the owner of my favorite sports team. If I could say one thing to you, it is…Please retain Bruce Beaudreau. He did an incredible job with this team during the season, and has had success at every level. He deserves to continue to build upon this success with a very young team. I am confident he has what it takes to get us to the Stanley Cup!
Thanks for a great season. I’ll always keep the faith. I’ll always Rock the Red!
Already looking forward to 2011-12!
Go CAPS!!
Well said. We are missing Grit. Shows that hard work can and sometimes does overcome talent. Need to keep gritty players like Brooks Laich, and ad more of those type of guys. Coaching is fine. Less finesse and more hard workers…See you next year
It was a great season and you can hang your hat on that. I know it hurts to lose but maybe the loss will parlay into something special next year. Thanks Mr. Leonis and sorry about the loss.
As a fan for the last 25 years, I appreciate that this team is in a much better place than it ever has been. The organization and fan base are here to stay.
That being said, if we’re locked in with the Young Guns, then something in management has to change. Either some of the core players or the coach/GM has worn out its welcome. It’s unfortunate, but that seems to be the case.
The sweep angers me; the franchise I love. Good luck with your review.
One thing is interesting to note. Mike Green right before the playoffs tweeted, “hey you all do you think I should come out with my own playoff t-shirt?”. I believe this lack of focus is one of your main issues. You would never see Crosby, St Louis, Kane, Stamkos….. and so on even considering marketing themselves before the playoffs. Selfish players = No cup.
I think in a few days we can appreciate the Ranger series, esp. the amazing game 4 comeback — I was totally expecting us to pull that off again in period 3 last night.
Carlson, Alzner, M.Jo., Neuvy all have some more playoff seasoning now. Maybe next year we’ll have a healthy Green, Wideman and Poti — would’ve made for an entirely different blueline picture in the series. But Tampa was missing key players w/ injuries too, and Pittsburgh, which at least pushed them to 7 games.
It was an exciting season though and I hope the powers that be can figure out what’s missing and help us attain a longer, happier playoff run next year.
Mr. Leonsis:
Heartbroken is the appropriate term to describe how I’m feeling this morning. I’m proud to say that I watched 82+ games this year both in person and via television this season, but that also set me and my fellow fans up to fall hard! I can’t imagine how the players must feel after what they invested into this incredibly up and down season. I have no wisdom to pass on other than to say thanks for a heck of a regular season of fun. I’ll go focus on the Redskins for a while!
Thanks Ted, as tough as last years exit was, this years was flat out embarrasing on all levels. Hang in there, we’ll lift a cup some day, hopefully sooner than later, and when we do it will be amazing.
While the season may have come to yet another premature, painful close, a hearty thanks to you and the organization Ted. This team is so much fun to watch throughout the year, and I have every reason to believe that you’ll do whatever is necessary to translate the astounding regular season success into the playoff success that we are all desperate for.
We need a taskmaster. There is too much complacency on this squad.
Please don’t let us down anymore. I’ve gone through this disappointment way too many times. I’m tired… just tired.
Ted, I think you did pretty all you could. I think George McPhee did all he could in getting us the best possible additions at the trade deadline at minimum cost. We strayed from our system at the worst possible time, we had mental lapses, and we had bad bounces, a recipe for disaster. Add me to the voices that say Bruce needs to go. I think he deserves a lot of credit for changing this team’s identity, for some great coaching decisions (who would have thought going into this season that Carlson and Alzner would be our shutdown d-pair?), but for one reason or the other, he is not getting through to the team. That may be no fault of his own, but a new coach with a new mentality is needed here in Washington.
Caps is a class act organization that clearly starts from the Top (you, the owner).. It was heartbreaking to not see our boys hold the cup this year, but they gave us a great season, and the Caps Fans will still be just as loud next season, with new hopes and dreams. Thank you Caps, we love you!
For some reason I’m finding this one harder to stomach then the early exit last year.
Hi Ted,
Thanks for sharing so openly your thoughts about this season that came crashing to a halt. As frustrated as I feel as a long time fan, I know that you feel this on a much more personal level.
Your summary is a stark testament to what we fans are trying to understand. How is it that we were outplayed, out coached and out hustled by a team that we were quite competitive with during the regular season?
I admire your desire to stay analytical about this team. It may need further tinkering, but the core is worth staying with. In my opinion what’s needed is the intangible… finding a way to keep players loose when the pressure is on.
Think about the 2004 Boston Red Sox the self proclaimed “idiots.” They found a way to play their best when it mattered the most and it finally brought them to the promised land.
Keep the faith!
As much as it is appreciated, there is no need for you to apologize to us. As a long-time Caps fan I have seen the ups and downs of this team from the beginning. Lord Stanley will find his way to Washington – of that I have no doubt. And the longer the wait the sweeter the reward will be. This just wasn’t our year.
You have many tough decisions to make in the coming weeks, and I wish you the best. Thanks again for a great season. See you in September.
Thank you.
Those 2 points from the Winter Classic were HUGE!!!! And please don’t fire Bruce Boudreau. That would be a mistake.
Come on Ted, I want to be mad at you but that was well said. Ha. Ugh. So depressing. Just please do the right thing this summer.
Ted you are great owner with a great coach and team. I too am shocked by the sweep but I am confident you have the pieces in place to evaluate and adjust for next season.
As much as I love the Caps and the Little Round Man, something has to change. Not today, but before next season. Winning the East four years in a row and then an early exit from the Playoffs each year isn’t “normal”. The Redskins stink, the Wizards stink, the Nationals stink. All we have are the Caps, and they keep us ecstatic most of the season and now, again, horribly depressed. Watching the third period last night was torture.
ps Please give all of Backstrom’s money to Ovie and Neuvirth.
Ted, the Caps are the only successful game in town when it comes to DC area sports. That alone should buy you and the organization a couple more years of goodwill from the fan base. Thanks for being a class act and showing the rest of the league how it should be done.
I am just a casual fan of hockey, but I know how badly this area wants to get behind a winner. The end of the season is very disappointing for sure, but this year was not at all a failure. The guys took one step further into the playoffs this year, and hopefully the pain and embarrassment of this series will motivate them to work harder in the offseason and next regular season to prevent it from happening again. The one statement you made above that defines this series is “their role players outplayed our highest paid players”. I hope Ovie and the rest of the team are taking good, long, hard looks in the mirror this morning.
Rock the Red!
Completely agree. Thanks for not making excuses and taking responsibility. With that much raw talent and experience, the only thing left to do is refine and mature it. Hopefully you will keep that in mind as the blogs, “experts”, and fans call for change. Thanks again for another season at VC and the opportunity to attend the winter classic.
Honestly this post sounds like a repeat of last years loss post. We can not keep making excuses for poor performance from players that make millions of dollars.
I think your observation that “their role players outplayed our highest paid players” says it all. Keep the Coach and McPhee. Need to find more heart in the locker room. It was evident from the outset of last night’s game that only certain players came to play. Good luck in finding a solution. I will remain a loyal Caps fan no matter what.
Jeff Levine
Thanks for a great and fun season. As a diehard Caps fan and a diehard NHL fan, your post describes my feelings exactly. I won’t pretend to know what the right personel decisions are for this organization, but whatever you choose, make sure it moves us forward and doesn’t take us a step back.
Interesting that, like Bruce, you seem to only mention the players when talking about the failures of the 2nd round. What about the coaching?Their coach out coached our coach. Why didn’t you mention that?
Another year, another coach out coaches Boudreau. No adjustment , no adapting. It’s a fact Ted, and it seems likes it time to move in a different direction.
Adapt and overcome is a Better strategy than stay the course and continue to fail when it matters most.
A complete review of the organization is required. INCLUDING coach and GM. It cannot be business as usual. This wasn’t a loss, it was a complete humiliation for the team and its fans.
Next year Ted. XOXO
Respectfully Ted, you forgot “Their coach was better than our coach. “
Hey Ted,
To me it was still a great season. I enjoyed watching them transform to a more defensive style as quick as they did. A full off season and full season next year they will be better set for the playoffs in 2012. I also want to thank you for the way you built this team and the way you are building the Wizards, with patience and youth.
Thanks CAPS
Roald
Great post, Ted, thank you. It was a great ride with a terrible, abrupt ending. We’ll be back next year.
Thanks for being a class act and thanks for a great regular season. That said, I am eagerly awaiting the changes we will make to become a team built for the post season as the regular season success doesn’t mean squat and just falsely builds hope…as Tarik said in his great write up yesterday…Caps fooled us once again.
Thanks Ted for an awesome season, whatever happens whoever stays and whoever goes I for one will be here next season and the many seasons to follow
GO CAPS (in Ted I trust)
Great season. I enjoyed watching. Also, I thought the HBO thing was great. Love the coach even more now!
Ted:
While the playoffs have broken my heart two years in a row, I am still very proud to be a Caps fan. It gives me great confidence knowing that you are our [primary] owner, and always have a long term plan in mind, not a knee-jerk reaction. We are not ‘seriously’ broken, we just need to continue to make the changes required to win. And regardless of what anyone says, the regular season does matter. I don’t buy 41 games/year just to earn a shot a buying playoff tickets – I buy because I love attending games at Verizon will all the other Caps fans and cheering loudly for my team, our team.
Keep the faith and stay the course as I know you will.
Thank you Ted for a good season. As a Caps fan, I appreciate your and the entire team’s efforts. Go Caps!
I’m not quit sure why so many are calling for Bruces head. I think he should stay. You put the team first and he is clearly what’s best for this team. People need to remember that Neuvy is technically a rookie and let’s be clear the burden cannot be placed on his shoulders. He kept it as close as it was. The defense failed and you just didn’t get any bounces. I commend you for a good season. Hopefully the fans will think logicaly and get excited for next year. You are the best owner in the NHL. Keep up the good work.
Someday, we can both check the “Win a championship” off our list of things to accomplish. Except, you are the owner and I am the fan. We both need to keep our happiness focus on track and realize that it’s just a game!
I also agree..well said, Mr. Leonsis. My son and I watch every single game possible and have done so for many years now. You have put together a simply remarkable team, in my humble opinion, from top to bottom, and it’s a testament to who you are, your diligence and determination. As fans, we owe you a huge thank you! Many of the talking heads, and even some regular fans are calling for a coaching change this morning. I am heartened to see that, at least per your comments here, you prefer to wait a few days for any decision. Again, imho, Bruce Boudreau is not the problem. I do not profess to have the answers, but I well remember what the team and it’s results were prior to Bruce, and of course, since. There is no doubt we all wanted more this year, but then that’s true of any year where we fall short. I am convinced beyond any doubt that we remain on the right track, and simply do not believe a major shake-up is the answer.
Again, Ted, thank you and your team for another great season, and you have at least two committed lifetime fans out here in Winchester!
Thanks for the season Ted. Was a fun and emotional ride while it lasted.
Whatever the previous Plan has been it has worked wonders during the regular season and failed miserably during the playoffs.
Hope that everything is looked at critically in the next couple of weeks and that a NEW plan is put in place.
4 years is long enough for the previous plan.
I don’t envy the difficult decisions ahead for you. Looking back at the 2003-2004 roster and results this team has come so far, but the final result remains the same. The cup holder is still empty.
Almost the same comments from a year ago. We keep reliving the same nightmare over and over and over. We keep hearing about “analyzing” and “getting better” and “their team was better”… yet we keep getting the same post-season heartbreak year after year after year after year. Bruce’s playoff series winning percentage is .333 – no acceptable by any measure. You talk about adherence to the system, but what really happened is that we were outcoached. If it was a failure to adhere, that in and of itself falls to the coaches. Keep things the same and we will get the same results. Very disappointed!
My family is crushed. My 30 years as a loyal Caps fan will remain.
However, I am a firm believer that this team was out disciplined and out hustled. That starts with the coach and then with the players.
I played hockey for 15 years and made it to a descent level. The coaches that got the most out of me were, quite simply, the ones I disliked. Why did I dislike them? They made me work harder and play a style that helped the team and not myself.
I am no means a professional athlete and can not imagine the pressure of the NHL. But the basics remain. If an inferior team destroys your psyche and defeats you handily, over and over.. then indeed, it is time for a change.
Ted,
Thanks for a great season. Though I agree with the analytical system for the most part, sometimes you need to go with gut!
- Hossein
You’re a class act and an asset to the NHL. As a Lightning fan, I was shocked that we were able to sweep your Caps. I attended the two home games here in Tampa and was thrilled at the outcome. But. more than than that, my son and I were inspired by the play of your Captain, Alex Ovechkin. IMO he is the best player in the NHL and no one, I mean no one worked harder or gave more in the series. Sometimes, individuals shine brighter in defeat and Alex certainly proved that.
As an NHL fan for over 40 years, I appreciate your candor and availability to all hockey fans. The Caps time will come soon.
Thank you.
Thank you for being rational and deliberate in evaluating what happened and how to address the results. Your leadership in all of this helps ease the frustration and drowned out the hysterical calls for immediate action. Tough decisions ahead – good luck. Fan base respects you.
Thank you Mr. Leonsis for caring. I know there are many fans (like yourself) who are disappointed with the outcome, but still believe this is a special team. I wish you the best in working with the team management to make the tough decisions this off season.
Like any fan, I have a few ideas… but every armchair GM does. I’ll save that for my fantasy hockey leagues. What I will say is that I think that there is something fundamentally missing from this team. I believe we have the talent to win.. but are lacking the mental fortitude to persevere in the playoff atmosphere. I trust the organization will evaluate the options and try to make changes to improve next year. Thanks again for putting yourself out there for the rest of us fans. It helps to know that you share the same intensity for winning that many of us do.
Thanks to you, the guys, Bruce, George, the entire Caps organization. I’m sure our heartbreak can’t begin to compare with yours. There’s so much I’m proud of from this season and I have complete faith we’ll come back even better in September. We have a very special team.
At the end of the decision-making process, I sincerely hope that Bruce Boudreau is not made a scapegoat. I can’t find fault with him when it’s clearly the lack of execution that led to this defeat. Not sure what needs to be done, but fortunately there are smarter people than me in charge of those choices. Onward.
Ted,
Well done.
You have proven yourself to be a dedicated owner and fan. As a fan and an owner you have to want better than this; as we all do. I can’t believe we are out in 4.
All aspects of the franchise should be examined – coaching, staff, players, front office, player development and scouting. There is too much raw talent to end seasons like we have the last 4 years.
I look forward to hearing your plan.
Go Caps!
Harry
Well said Ted, thanks for a good season! We’ll fondly remember the Winter Classic
Thank you for a great season. It was fun. Stick to the analytic approach, always better than a knee jerk.