- Battling for standings. The Caps have a 1-game lead in the standings for the presidents trophy. Just being in the running for this award is already an accomplishment for this franchise but what it brings the Caps is very important for two reasons. First, everyone knows the Caps have to get through the Pens this post-season. They failed to do this at home last year, but putting themselves in the Igloo this year will not help. It will also give them a chance to face a few lesser opponents, hopefully defeating them quickly, and giving them rest before the inevitable conference championship (most likely) with the second seed (most likely) Pens. Second, assuming they make it to the finals, they will likely face either the Blackhawks or the Sharks. Both teams are deeply talented, consistent and very difficult to beat at home. I don't see the Caps winning in the Sharktank, meaning 4 home games over a 7-game stretch will be invaluable.
- The Caps have an overfull roster, so health should not be an issue. The real issue the Caps will have is playing their roster correctly. They are going to have to finalize 3+1 issues before these playoffs start. The first and most discussed is goaltending. JT has played himself into the top seed right now for the goalie spot. But so had he last year and came out giving the Rangers a 4 spot and a win. Varly no longer has beginners luck on his side and is in a deep slump right now. Hes been injured, out of shape, and poor in most recent games. The Caps can only hope this resolves before the playoffs begins. The second issue is defense. With newly acquired Corvo and Juice back in the lineup the Caps have options. But the playoffs are not about options, they are about winning. This has contributed to piss poor penalty killing which will absolutely destroy them come playoff time. The third issue is offensive depth. They've moved players around through the year trying to find their #2 and #3 centers. Players need to step up and earn those spots. The +1 issue is chemistry. With so many moving parts and positions not rightfully claimed, when the top three issues shake out, this is the one that cannot be harmed in the process.
- Live by the sword, die by the sword. The Caps are the highest scoring team in the NHL right now, by a staggering margin. They are 16th in GA/G and while teams like the Pens might be even worse, the teams that make it to the finals are the ones that clean this number up come playoff time. Time for the Caps to win games 6-1 and not 6-5. Like above, the Caps have the best PP in the NHL, and again, by a staggering margin. They are 25th in the PK. This is an area that no playoff team is worse or even close to. Along these lines, puck control is absolutely crucial. So many Caps are called out for their fancy moves that result in odd man rushes (Semin, Ovie, Green, I'm looking at you). I don't care what sport you play, any coach will tell you the 3 keys to winning any game are Turnovers, Penalties and Special Teams.
I'm excited for the playoffs, but more than anything, I want to see the Caps play disciplined, emotional well-rounded hockey. I want a cup, not highlight reels. Thoughts?
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