FOR YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE

I give you, Jay Beagle.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

HEARTBREAKER: CAPS FALL IN THE 7TH ROUND OF THE SHOOTOUT

FINAL SCORE: Penguins 3- Capitals 2 (S0)

W: Fleury

L: Neuvirth

Goals: WAS- Green (Semin, Backstrom), Knuble (Laich)

PIT- Crosby (Letang, Malkin), Kunitz (Crosby)

DC Hockey Spot's Recap

If there was ever a night that neither team deserved to lose it was tonight. The Capitals and Penguins put on a playoff life performance at Verizon Center that required a 7 round shootout to declare a "winner". Pascal Dupuis netted the winner over a stunned Neuvirth to send the Pens into the Christmas break on another high note while the Capitals are left to wonder what could have been. The Capitals never led in the game and squandered many PP chances, but it was difficult to be disappointed with the effort. But for a Capitals team that had been down on their luck, this one has to hurt.

Highlights, Lowlight, and Tidbits

MVP: There are a ton of options here, but Mike Green played his best game of the season and possibly one of his best games in a Capitals jersey. Due to the injury to Tom Poti, Green was forced to play over 34 minutes of an incredibly physical and intense hockey game. He also scored a key PP goal to tie the score and appeared to win the game in OT on a beautiful display of skill. We think he was robbed by Fluery on the goal line, but without an xray we will never knows. Although, Green thinks he does, as he answered the question of whether he thought he scored by saying "100%. I am not going to sleep tonight". Props as well to both Neuvirth and Fleury for outstanding games.

Highlight of the Night: Too many to count. It was that outstanding a contest. But to name a few...

- Ovechkin's hit on Malkin less than a minute into the game. It was on after that.

- Crosby's goal. Hell of a pass by Letang

- Green's goal. He looked like the weight of the world was lifted from him with that strike.

- Knuble's goal. Huge SH goal by the guy that we now see is a big leader on this team (thanks HBO)

Lowlight of the Night: Fleury's glove over the Green shot in OT. I really think it was in. But we will never know. Been that type of month.

Revelation of the Night: Never freak out in December, no matter how bad it seems. The Capitals played a hell of a game and in the words of Karl Alzner, the Caps are back.

Disappointment of the Night: This game was a perfect example of why shootouts need to go. Neither team deserved to be devastated in the locker room after the game. But that is just what we will see in the locker room on Wednesday night when HBO's "24/7" returns. It is a skills competitions that belongs in an All Star game, not a to decide a 65 minute battle.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Capitals have a lot of positives they can take from that game. As HBO has made very obvious, the Capitals and Penguins were currently on the opposite ends of the spectrum. But tonight showed that is no longer true. Someone had to lose and it is a shame it was DC, but I suspect the Capitals will go on a nice Boudreau Era run now, including a victory at the Winter Classic in Pittsburgh, PA.

Happy Holidays

ROUND 1 AT 7TH AND F

Washington Capitals v Pittsburgh Penguins

Thursday December 23, 2010

7pm

Verizon Center, Washington DC

Hockey's most covered rivalry begins anew tonight as the Capitals host the Penguins at the Verizon Center in Washington, DC. The Caps and Pens have been rivals for quite some time, although the rivalry has increased due to the rise of Crosby and Ovechkin as the two biggest stars in the NHL. This years contest has even more sizzle to it due to the HBO coverage and the Winter Classic (which believe it or not is only a week and a half away).

The Caps and Pens are two very different teams right now, as anyone who has seen "24/7" is painfully aware of. The Penguins are firing on all cylinders, losing only 2 games in the last 14. Crosby is on a 22 game point streak and the team as a whole is playing flawless hockey. The Capitals on the other hand were in a much covered 8 game skid, although recently have gotten back to winning hockey. The stars of DC though are another story. Ovechkin, Backstrom, and Green are in unusual slumps and the Capitals cannot depend simply on the heroics of Andrew Gordon, Matty Perreault, and John Carlson if they expect to be playing in June.

With this in mind, here are some story lines and keys for tonights huge tilt in Chinatown:

1) The Ovechkin Watch: Capitals fans can no longer argue that Ovechkin is better than Crosby. It is just simply not true right now. Ovechkin though can get back in the discussion with a huge game tonight.

2) Can the Caps Halt Another Streak: The Capitals are not known as a defensive team, but Bruce has been trying to implement a more defensive style in the last few weeks. Putting a stop to Crosby's dominance tonight would do wonders in validating what the Capitals are trying to do.

3) Will BB Account for Crosby: The Capitals did something they had never done before in the Ducks game- match lines. Tonight would be a good time to try that again as I would love to see Laich and Poti-Hannan play every shift against 87 in white.

4) Who Will Step it Up: If Ovechkin and Co continue to struggle, someone else has to step up. Look for Eric Fehr to build on his strong games in Boston and Ottawa.

5) Keys to the Game: Score first, covert on the PP, and try to neutralize Crosby. Pretty obvious.

PREDICTION:

The Capitals need this game way more than the Penguins do. The game is at home, they have not been playing well overall, and HBO has made them out to be a depressed group. This game could be huge to restoring the confidence and swagger that has been the staple of this Capitals team during the Boudreau Era.

Final Score: 4-3 Capitals. Caps will trailing 3-1 entering the 3rd period, will get a dirty grinder goal at the beginning of the 3rd and Carlson pulls his hero routine on a late PP to send it to OT. Then, Ovechkin returns to relevance with an OT game winner to blow the top of the Verizon Center (which hopefully I will hear from my apartment).

GO CAPS

LEAVE IT TO THE VET

Many wondered what the Capitals did Sunday night to bounce back from another 2-0 hole and official take all Capitals fans off tilt with a come from behind victory in Canada's capital. Turns out it might have been a Mike Knuble locker room speech, which can be seen on the latest installment of "24/7".

"It will not [expletive] turn into a 5-0, 7-0 [expletive] laugher where they're [expletive] giggling getting out of their [expletive] mess here. We're [expletive] down 3-0, and we are going to come back and were gonna [expletive] win this thing. We're not [expletive] going in the tank. That's enough right there. That's [expletive] more than a year's worth. It's not going to happen again."

If the Capitals make this a special year, chances are we can look back to that speech. Other highlights of the episode......

- Matt Hendricks looks straight out of a horror film.

- Matt Cooke is a dick. He cut the laces on the skates of a former teammate before a game.

- 106.7 The Fan's morning talk show "The Sports Junkies" are quoted questioning Boudreau, prompting harsh responses from Bruce and GMGM.

- Line of the Night: "Adversity is a good teacher. This could be the best thing that ever happened to us." - GMGM

- The Capitals' victory song is some techno song from Pauly D of "Jersey Shore" fame. Complete with fist pumps.

HBO 24/7 - Capitals Celebrate Jersey Shore Style from Greg Wyshynski on Vimeo.

REAL AMERICAN HERO

with an absolute laser in what has been the Caps best game in a month...

INTERESTING THOUGHT

Scott Burnside of ESPN writes today in his "5 things" blog that maybe it is time for the sinking Devils to unload assets, starting with the unthinkable, Martin Brodeur. In his argument he mentions the Capitals as a team that might be interested. I personally do not buy it. It would cost too many prospects and Brodeur is not the goalie he once was. But it was an interesting read.

http://espn.go.com/blog/nhl/post/_/id/2739/five-things-devils-grim-outlook-kings-missing-pieces-flyers-extra-goalie

IT'S OVER!!!!

FINAL SCORE: Capitals 3- Senators 2

W: Neuvirth

L: Elliot

Goals: Was- Perreault (Knuble, Laich), Fehr (Ovechkin), Perrault (Fehr)

Ott- Shannon (Winchester), Kelly (Neil)

DC Hockey Spot's Recap

It's finally over. The Capitals finally kick the elephant off their backs and all of Washington can exhale. The game did not start off well as the Caps came out looking lethargic and were down 2-0 after 1. Something clicked in during the intermission though (and we will see what happened on 24/7 Wednesday) and the Capitals finally got some luck. Perreault and Fehr scored two dirty beautiful goals to start the 2nd and help to take Cap fans off tilt. Then came what proved to be the winner when Perreault scored a goal on the second wave of the powerplay on another ugly scramble in front of the net. The Capitals were able to hold on in the 3rd, despite a scare due to a dumb penalty by Chimera with under three minutes to play, and the Capitals secured victory for the first time since December 1st. The Capitals piled onto the ice and mobbed Neuvirth when the clock hit :00, which is odd to see for a mid-December game. But, most of these Capitals have never had a chance to really overcome adversity since all their previous trials have ended in summer golf. So celebrate away and get ready to start a streak we like!

Highlights, Lowlights, and Tidbits

- MVP: Has to be Matty Perreault. When he is on he is really a spark plug for the Capitals. Speed, creativity, and a nose for the net. Someone on an ESPN board said he is a fast version of Danny Briere. Briere is one of my top 3 hated hockey players (with Crosby and Hartnell), but I do not think the comparison is far off. Kudos to Fehr as well.

- Highlight of the Night: When the clock hit :00. It was beginning to seem like it would never end.....

- Lowlight of the Night: When I went on official suicide watch when Chris Kelly scored in the 1st.

- Revelation of the Night: Eric Fehr playing with Ovechkin and Backstrom. Fehr built on a strong 3rd period in Boston and earned a full game with the big guns. And it worked. Many Capital fans have believe Fehr is the heir apparent to Knuble on the top line and we can see why now. He has better hands and a better shot than Knuble, but does not crash the net quite as well. But, Knuble seems to have lost a step and I for one would love to see more of Fehr with the superstars.

Just for Fun: Here is my personal "A Squad" for the Capitals:

Ovechkin- Backstrom- Fehr

Semin- Perreault- Laich

Chimera- Johnasson- Knuble

Bradley- Gordon- Hendricks

Green-Schultz

Carlzner

Poti- Hannan

Disappointment of the Night: A guy I really like taking a HORRIBLE penalty with the game in the balance. Terrible offense zone penalty by Chimera. He is lucky it did not cost them.

Heroics of the Night: Brooks Laich was a machine on that penalty kill. Ovechkin also made an impressive diving clear.

FINAL THOUGHTS

It will be interesting to see what happens next now that the streak is over. You would think they have to beat New Jersey and Pittsburgh to officially put the streak in the rear view mirror. But one of the biggest "knocks" on the Capitals is that they were not built for the playoffs and had never faced adversity. Well, now they have faced that adversity. Will it make a difference?

It also will be interesting to see if the Capitals really do become more defense-minded as Boudreau says they are trying to do. Even if they do, I still believe the Capitals need to do three more things to truly be ready for the playoffs:

1) Get creative with Ovechkin: He is figured out. Have to change how he is utilized. I would also move him to the LW on the PP and let him tee up shots like Stamkos does in TB.

2) Figure out the 1st period: Cannot play comeback when it counts.

3) Trade for a Center and a Goaltender: Ideally Perreault should be the 3rd line center and Johansson should be the 4th. Need a true #2 center. And I really think they need a reliable backup behind whatever young kid they go to battle with. GMGM should get on the phone with Holmgren in Philly and take either Boucher or Leighton off his hands.....

I THINK IT MIGHT BE TIME.....

SURELY THE FUCK WE CAN DEAL WITH THIS

The HBO Special "24/7: Capitals-Penguins Road to the NHL Winter Classic" debuted Wednesday night to rave reviews. The show follows the Capitals and Penguins in the month leading up to the Classic with unprecedented behind the scenes access. Of course, this not a good things for the Caps right now, as they are mired in a losing streak with the Penguins are winners of 12 of the last 14.

Despite the woes of the Capitals, the debut episode was spectacular. Unfortunately, the show paints the Capitals as a desperate team, which has bugged some. But, is it not true? I mean yes, the Capitals are struggling now, but the show also highlights the playoff letdowns of the past few seasons. The Penguins on the other hand are painted as a fun loving juggernaut, which is an accurate representation at the time. I hope we get to see some of the fun side of the Capitals in later episodes, but this streak is going to to have to end for that to happen.

Highlights of the Episode:

- The Capitals reaction to the losing streak. Refreshing to see that they are as pissed as we are.

- Boudreau's f-bomb speeches, which are priceless

- Ovechkin's response to John Michael Liles bleeding after the Semin cross-check to the ref: "Well he probably has sensitive skin, no"

- The Ovechkin fight. Interesting to get an inside look at it.

- Marc Andre Fleury and Co emptying rookie Mark Letestu's hotel room into the hallway

- The Ovechkin highlight reel at the beginning. Always fun to watch.

TED'S TAKE

Ted Leonsis is by far the most accessible owner in the NHL if not all of sports. He responds to emails, greets fans as they enter the arena, posts on Twitter, and writes an excellent blog. The Capitals are the organization they are today because of Ted.

And when everyone is in a panic, leave is to Ted to offer some perspective. Here is his post from today's Ted's Take titled "Can Everyone Stop Feeling Sorry for Us Now? :)"

http://www.tedstake.com/2010/12/17/can-everyone-stop-feeling-sorry-for-us-now/

ROCK BOTTOM

When should we panic? The question has been all over the newspapers and sports talk radio. Yes, its only December and yes the Capitals are still near the top of the conference. So panic, no. But ignore? Clearly impossible at this point.

Tonight, the Capitals dropped their 7th straight contest and FIFTH in a row at home. Let me type that again. FIFTH in a row at home. This previously unthinkable occurrence came to furtion with a 2-1 OT loss to the Ducks. The Capitals scored early on a hardworking goal by Brooks Laich but failed the dent the twine again, ultimately losing with 1 min left in the extra session. The Capitals clearly had their chances, but as has become the trend, failed to capitalize. Hiller made an amazing stick save on a tic-tac-toe play that is normally childs play for this team and Ovechkin missed on the net on a 2nd period breakaway.

Many pointed to the 7-0 loss at MSG against the Rangers as rock bottom. I disagree. This was worse and it is because they were unable to respond following the embarrassment in NYC. They tried and had their chances against the Ducks, and the effort was there in the 1st. But the 3rd was very flat, and a great team puts out nothing less than a 60 min effort and a win after a loss like the one at MSG. The Capitals failed to do either, leading to the conclusion that right now, the Capitals are at best an average team.

So, is it really OK to panic now? Here are some reasons for and against.

PANIC: The Home magic is gone.

Teams no longer seem to fear Verizon Center. The Capitals still have a relatively new fan base, so streaks like this are not taken well.

REMAIN CALM: The fans are still here.

Despite the play, Verizon was pretty full tonight for a Wednesday night and it still gets loud and passionate. But the natives are restless.

PANIC: Ovechkin is MIA

The Capitals will go as far as Alex Ovechkin takes them. Right now, he cannot seem to do anything right. He misses the net, passes when he should shoot and shoots when he should pass and does not seem to play with the reckless abandon he use to. Maybe the critics have gotten to him, but Ovechkin is not right.

REMAIN CALM: It has to be a matter of time....right?

Ovechkin cannot remain missing forever. He just cannot.

PANIC: This isn't exactly new.

It's not like Ovechkin's struggles coincide with the losing streak. He has not been himself all season. In fact, he has not been the same since the Olympics. So it's not new.

REMAIN CALM: It has to be a matter of time....right?

Ovechkin cannot remain missing forever. He just cannot.

PANIC: Did GMGM screw up?

Do the Capitals miss Flash? Does Hannan not fit in? The offense is sputtering since he left and the defense seems to be the same as it has always been.

REMAIN CALM: Lots of games and the flu.

The Capitals have not had many practices since the trade and when they have people have been hurt or sick. In fact, we have not seen the Capitals A Squad during the current streak.

But the biggest one:

REMAIN CALM: It is December, not April.

Let's hope they turn it around soon, particularly with three huge games this month, Pittsburgh at the Phone Booth, Montreal's return, and of course, the Winter Classic, on national TV.

QUESTION OF THE MOMENT

From time to time, DC Hockey Spot will pose questions regarding current NHL topics and chatter. Last night, Oiler rookie Limus Omark pulled off what is being called one of the most gusty shootout attempts in recent memory. But rather than constant praise and top 10 apperances, Omark has been met with a great deal of criticism from players and analyst. The complaint is that the rookie has not earned the right to attempt a move like the one he did last night. Here is a link to the shot: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dnsngTNeGTg and to the TSN article regarding the issue at hand: http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=345095

Personally, I do not get the argument or why the Omark goal is getting so much negative press. Sports are about personalities, and the NHL could use more personality. It should not matter if you are a rookie or a 10 year vet. If you can pull an incredible move off and score, more power to you. Its like saying Sam Bradford cannot complete a Hail Mary pass to win a game because he is a rookie. It seems absurd to me.

Also, I do not even think the move was that spectacular. Amazing? Yes. But the cool part, the spin, was at center ice. Take at look at these some of these shootout goals:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMad9tlj8II&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aW56LSffJtc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XreUfjIMBuY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68E9l-8cpWk

and of course http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6gyTV_vt2s

So, what do you think: WAS OMARK OUT OF LINE? SHOULD A PLAYER NEED TO EARN THE RIGHT TO MAKE A GUTSY MOVE?

CAPS EMBARRASSED BY PANTHERS

FINAL SCORE: 3-0

W: Vokoun

L: Varlamov

Goals: FLA: Everyone

WAS: No one

DC HOCKEY SPOT'S RECAP

Caps played like shit.

Highlights, Lowlights, and Tidbits

Highlight of the Night: Nothing

Lowlight of the Night: Everything

FINAL THOUGHTS

I was there. Worst game I have seen live in terms of the Capitals' performance (Game 7 was worse, but for a different reason). Caps, get your shit together.

DC HOCKEY SPOT POWER RANKINGS

DC Hockey Spot Power Ranking Philosophy: I believe Power Rankings are for body work, not at the given moment. So my ranking are based on more than a few games during a week.

1. Pittsburgh Penguins: Tops in the East, winners of 10 straight and Crosby is on a tear. Hard to pick anyone else. (Sadly)

2. Detroit Red Wings: Despite losing 2 straight, the wings are only 3 points off the pace of the Pens and have played 4 less games. They just keep getting it done.

3. Philadelphia Flyers: Deepest forward group in hockey and have been an excellent road team, which is important. Also have the leagues best goal differential.

4. Washington Capitals: Might have the most talent in the league and are winning despite a slumping Alex the Great. Look for them to move up when OV picks it up. Semin, Neuvirth, Carlson and the unsung heroes (Hendricks) have been huge early on. Look for the Hannan deal to pay huge dividends this year.

5. Vancouver Canucks: Will only improve as Burrows works his way back into the lineup to complete the best line in hockey (Sedin-Sedin-Burrows).

6. Montreal Canadiens: Solid goaltending from Price and contributions from depth forwards (Halpern, Darche) normally equals success.

7. Chicago Blackhawks: There has clearly been a Cup hangover and Salary Cap hangover, but the Hawks are still a force to be dealt with. Goaltending needs to improve to put them into the repeat category.

8. Boston Bruins: Tim Thomas is playing at an MVP level and the top line of Lucic- Kreicj-Horton has been impressive early on.

9. Atlanta Thrashers: A bit high, but I really like the makeup of this team. Excellent goaltending, young scoring talent, and the former Hawk's could make the Thrash a legit team in March and April. Plus they have the Caps number.

10. Dallas Stars: Good goaltending is always a key to success. Lots of under the radar talent in Big D (Neal, Benn, etc).

11. New York Rangers

12. Tampa Bay Lightning

13. Los Angeles Kings

14. Phoenix Coyotes

15. San Jose Sharks

16. Colorado Avalanche

17. St. Louis Blues

18. Columbus Blue Jackets

19. Anaheim Ducks

20. Nashville Predators

21. Minnesota Wild

22. Ottawa Senators

23. Carolina Hurricanes

24. Toronto Maple Leafs

25. Buffalo Sabres

26. Florida Panthers: Cannot seem to score goals despite some talent. Without Voukon this team is dead last.

27. Calgary Flames: Curious signings in the offseason are not panning out. This team is in dire straits.

28. Edmonton Oilers : There is hope for this team. They have a ton of young talent in Hall and Eberle.

29. New York Islanders: This team is going to lose Taveres if they do not find some success. However small it is.

30. New Jersey Devils: I have a feeling everyone is hockey is having a private laugh at the expense of the Devils. The team that frustrated everyone with the trap and tried to ruin hockey with the Kovalchuk deal is awful.

There you have it. Feel free to argue, agree, or just comment.

POWER RANKINGS

Each week, I will post links to the three most popular Power Rankings. Then, DC Hockey Spot will do it's own version of a Power Ranking.

Here are this weeks rankings

ESPN: http://espn.go.com/nhl/powerrankings

-CAPS- 5TH

SI: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/brian_cazeneuve/12/01/capitals.top.power.rankings/index.html-

- CAPS- 1ST

TSN: http://www.tsn.ca/fantasy_news/rankings/nhl/

- CAPS- 3RD

CAPS CONTINUE TO SPUTTER; FALL APART AGAINST LOWLY LEAFS

FINAL SCORE: Maple Leafs 5- Capitals 4 (S0)

W: Gustavsson

L: Neuvirth

Goals: Wash- Perreault (Poti, Semin); Knuble (Backstrom, Poti); Perreault (Laich); Ovechkin (Poti, Backstrom

Tor- MacArthur (Kulemin); Grabovski (Kabarle, Kulemin); Brent (Kabarle, Kadri); MacArthur (Grabovski, Kessel)

Shootout: Was- Ovechkin- Save; Perreault- Save; Semin- Save

Tor- Kadri- Save; Grabovski- SCORE; Kessel- Save

DC Hockey Spot's Recap

The Capitals finally had the game that plagued them over the last two years but they had managed to avoid so far this year. They only played 40 minutes and let an inferior team back into the game. The Capitals totally imploded in the 3rd period, surrendering three goals, including one with the goalie pulled, to squander a 4-1 lead and ultimately fall to the Maple Leafs in front of the 76th consecutive sellout at the Phone Booth. The loss marked the second in a row for DC at home. The Capitals controlled the first 2 period, getting 2 goals from recent call up Mathieu Perreault and from the suddenly awake Alexander Ovechkin. But the success was short lived as the Capitals took off 1 shift early in the 3rd and then disappeared for the last 5 minutes as they tried to force feed Perreault for the Hat Trick in a game they thought was wrapped up. The result of that style of play: Grabovski scoring the goal pictured above to send the Capital fans home bitter.

Highlights, Lowlights, and Tidbits

MVP: Mikhael Grabovski- He was all over the ice in the 3rd for Toronto, including scoring the goal to spark the comeback and then setting up MacArthur to send it to Overtime. He also scored the insane shootout goal to send Toronto home with the win.

Highlight of the Game: The second Perreault goal was nice. Excellent patience and shot. But lets be honest, this was the goal of the game...... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tG1c0FNGfPs

Lowlight of the Game: The overall lack of effort in the 3rd. And oh yeah..... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tG1c0FNGfPs

Revelation of the Game: Mathieu Perreault is ready to be a full time NHL player. Enough with him being too small. He skates well, creates chances, and has a nose for the puck. I think most Capital fans would be very happy with Backstrom. Johansson, Perreault, and Gordon down the middle. Sit Steckel. Its Mighty Mouse time!

Disappointment of the Game: Again, the 3rd period implosion. It's unacceptable for a team this talented, particularly at home. Packing it in with 20 minutes to go does not cut it. Also not playing "Unleash the Fury" in the 3rd.

Bad News of the Night: Schultz is out 4-6 weeks with a fractured thumb. Schultz has come a long way since being undressed by Dubinsky in the playoffs 2 years ago and is essential to the Capitals defense. Playing alongside Mike Green is not easy with his love of jumping up in the play and replacing Schultz will not be easy. It will also limit Green's game as he will have to be a little more responsible defensively.

The Counts

- Chimera "I'm Faster than You": 2

- Green Slips: None

- Semin Stick Penalties: None

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Capitals might have the most talented team in the league. They might well boast three of the top five players in the world. They might have a more balanced team than in the past. They might be battle tested by their Game 7 defeats. They might have improved their one major weakness with their trade last week. And it is only December, but

A championship caliber team does not lose that game.

CAPS SUFFER RARE HOME LOSS TO THE THRASHERS

Final Score: Thrashers 3- Capitals 1

W: Pavelec

L: Varlamov

Goals: Wash- Ovechkin (Semin, Carlson)

Atl- Peverley (Byfuglien, Ladd); Burmistrov (Antropov, Eager); Ladd (Peverley, Antropov)

DC Hockey Spot's Recap

The Capitals suffered a rare loss at home to the Atlanta Thrashers Saturday night, snapping an 8 game home streak against their Southeast Division rival. Ondrej Pavelec continued his recent dominance of the NHL, stopping all but 1 of the 46 Capital shots. Bruce Boudreau lamented that the game felt like the Montreal series in his post game report, and he was right. The Caps were shooting on from the perimeter and were unable to beat the red hot goaltender. Alex Ovechkin did finally break his 10 game goal-less drought, but it was not enough to stop the much improved Thrashers.

Highlights, Lowlight, and Tidbits

- MVP: Thrasher's Defense: The Capitals were kept out of the goal and away from the front of the net just about all game. Is this the formula to beat the Caps? Let's hope not....

- Highlight of the Night: The Ovechkin goal. And not just because it was a goal or because it broke the much covered dry spell for the Great 8. The Capitals line of Ovechkin, Backstrom, Semin, Carlson, and Alzner kept the puck in the Thrasher's zone for almost 2 straight minutes and looked like they were playing pond hockey. Insane display of talent that is one of the reasons the Capitals are one of the top teams in hockey,

- Lowlight of the Night: The Capitals had their normal 3-5 minute lull which allowed the Thrashers to take control of the game as Peverley and Burmistrov scored.

- Revelation of the Night: The Thrashers are a good team now that have the Capitals number. They have excellent goaltending and a lot of talent all over the ice. Burmistrov reminds me of a young Semin.

- Pleasant Surprise of the Night: Hannan can be a little fast when he needs to be. Seemed to get back on defense well last night.

- Disappointment of the Night: How often the Capitals big guns miss the net. It goes back to the perimeter idea. But the pucks on net and you get rebounds. Miss the net and you normally lose possession.

- The Counts

- Chimera "I'm Faster than You": 1

- Green Slips: None

- Semin Stick Penalties: None

Final Thoughts

The Capitals need to get tougher on offense. And it is not like the front office has not tried. Chimera, Knuble, and Hendricks were all great additions to add grit up front. But if the pucks are not hitting the net on the initial shot the grit does not do much. Ovechkin, Semin, and Green need to get their shots on net.

QUARTER POLE AWARDS

As the NHL Season moves into Decemeber, we hit the time of year when everyone makes their predictions for post season awards. Do they ever come true? Not often, but it is still fun. Below are DC Hockey Spot's picks for the Hart, Vezina, Norris, and Calder as well as a Stanley Cup prediction and East v West All Star Picks.

Hart Memorial Trophy: League MVP

Front Runner: Steven Stamkos, Tampa Bay

While he has cooled lately, Stamkos began the year on a torrid pace and is one of the major reasons that Tampa Bay is relevant again and that the Capitals are going to have to work to win the Southeast Division this year. He is the most dangerous player in the league on the Powerplay and his one timer reminds many of a young Brett Hull.

Runner Ups: Sidney Crosby, Pittsburg- Proving to be one of the most consistent players in hockey; Alex Semin, Washington- Do not expect him to be in the mix all year, but he has been the engine that has driven the Capitals offense while Ovechkin struggles to score.

Under Consideration: Eric Staal, Carolina; Dustin Byfuglien, Atlanta; Carey Price, Montreal

Vezina Trophy: Most Outstanding Goaltender

Front Runner: Carey Price, Montreal

Price leads the league in Wins with 15 and is in the top 5 in terms of S% and GAA. But what is most impressive is where he is doing it given his history. Montreal has thought Price to be a franchise goalie for quite some time, but the fans and media have had a hate-hate relationship with him over the year (particularly when Halak was traded). He is proving them all wrong and at this point is cashing in an MVP like performance.

Runner Ups: Tim Thomas, Boston- Good redemption story who leads the league is S%, GAA, and Shutouts. I only put Price above him because of the situation of playing in Montreal; Ondrej Pavelc, Atlanta- Excellent bounce back for early season fainting episode and is 2nd in the league in S% and GAA.

Under Consideration: Jimmy Howard, Detroit; Jonathan Quick, Los Angeles; Sergei Bobrovsky, Philadelphia

James Norris Trophy: Most Outstanding Defenseman

Front Runner: Dustin Byfuglein, Atlanta

Most thought Atlanta was insane to move Big Buff off the wing and back to the blueline, but he has thrived so far this season. His Stanley Cup winning experience has been invaluable to Atlanta and is doing his best Mike Green impression as he leads the league in points. He might also be the most clutch player in hockey today.

Runner Ups: Nicklas Lidstrom, Detroit- Has earned the right to be on everyones list and has backed that right up this year; Kris Letang, Pittsburgh- Near the top of the list in points and +/-

Under Consideration: Mike Green, Washington; John-Micheal Liles, Colorado; Tobias Enstrom, Atlanta

Calder Memorial Trophy- Most Outstanding Rookie

Front Runner: John Carlson, Washington

While a bit of a homer pick, Carlson is for sure in the discussion for winning ROY. He leads all rookies in ice time and is 2nd in +/- while racking up 12 points as a denfenseman. He also has been counted on to play big minutes against the opponents top line, although that might change with the arrival of Scott Hannan.

Runner Ups: Jeff Skinner, Carolina- Leads rookies in points. Sergei Bobrovsky, Philadelphia- Seems to finally be the answer to the goaltending woes in the City of Brotherly Love.

Under Consideration: Michal Neuvirth, Washington; Logan Couture, San Jose; Jordan Eberle, Edmonton.

Stanley Cup Prediction

This year the NHL has been as tight as ever. In fact, almost every team in the West is still in serious contention for a playoff spot. In the East, the Front Runners have to be Washington, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. Out West, the top teams early are Detroit, Vancouver, and Chicago.

DC Hockey Spot's Pick: Washington over Vancouver

Two teams that have been in the mix for years finally get over the top and reach the finals. Washington is able to capture their 1st Stanley Cup due in large part to a huge playoff by Alex Ovechkin and Brooks Laich (playing the role of Big Buff) and strong goaltending by a young duo, a la Carolina when Cam Ward and Martin Gerber lead the way.

Dark Horse:

- Boston- Any team with a goalie playing like Tim Thomas has a shot. And the return of Savard will only help an already improved offense.

- Los Angeles: Young team that should start to come together more as the year moves on. Look for them to make waves at the deadline if they are serious contenders for a Cup run.

East v West All Stars

While I know the rules have changed, here are DC Hockey Spot's picks for East and West All Stars.

East

C: Sidney Crosby- Pittsburgh

LW: Alex Ovechkin- Washington

RW: Steven Stamkos- Tampa Bay

D: Dustin Byfulgein- Atlanta

D: Zdeno Chara- Boston

G: Carey Price- Montreal

West

C: Pavel Datsuyk- Detroit

LW: Patrick Sharp- Chicago

RW: Daniel Sedin- Vancouver

D: Nicklas Lidstrom- Detroit

D: John-Michael Liles- Colorado

G: Jonathan Quick- Los Angeles

CAPITALS FALL TO THE STARS IN BIG D

Final Score: 2-1

W: Raycroft

L: Neuvirth

Goals: Wash- Knuble (Green, Fehr)

Dal- Riberio (Richards, Neal), Segal (Morrow, Woywikta)

DC Hockey Spot Recap

The Capitals came in to Dallas fresh off a complete game in St Louis, yet fell to the Stars in game two of the road back to back. The Capitals never seemed to really get going and had quite a few mistakes that cost them quite a few scoring chances. From Fehr missing a more or less open net to Oveckin falling down on the back door look, nothing really went the Capitals way in Big D. Dallas was able to survive with only two goals due in large part to the play of Andrew Raycroft. Yet the Capitals still have a chance to tie the game late, only to have a goal by the Real American Hero John Carlson disallowed on what looked to be a good goal. Not the Caps night in Dallas.

Highlights, Lowlights, and Fun Observations

MVP: Raycroft. Made the saves he needed to to keep the Stars lead safe.

Highlight of the Night: The Knuble goal was nice, particularly given his struggles, but I liked Ovechkin coming to the aid of Marcus Johansson at the end of the 1st. He took a penalty for it, but leaders are suppose to stand up for their team.

Lowlight of the Night: Ovechkin falling down on the back door look late in the 1st and fanning on a shot off the faceoff in the 3rd. Never seen him with such a stretch of bad luck.

Pleasant Surprise: Alan May in the booth. He is a lot smarter than I first gave him credit for. His rough sense of humor also balances Lockers corny humor.

Revelation of the Night: Johansson can skate. Given him some time and he will be protecting the puck and creating plays just like fellow Swede Nick Backstrom. Also, I am beginning to think Green cannot skate.

Disappointment of the Night: That the refs seemed too involved. Seemed to make the wrong call on the tying goal and missed a few obvious calls, most notably the slash of Schultz. But refs are not an excuse.

The Counts

- Chimera "I'm Faster than You": 2 I think

- Green Slips: 1 obvious one on the PP

- Semin Stick Penalties: None!!!!!!!!!!

Final Thoughts

Ovechkin might never score a goal again. That is obviously hyperbole, but defenses have him figured out. He is not always going to have as much bad luck as he does now, but he needs some new moves. I like the idea of moving him back to the right side. Or maybe structure the offensive breakout so he is not carrying the puck but skating to space on the break. That way he can be set up rather being tempted into the "cut to the middle move" or the toe drag. Just a thought. I was also looking forward to seeing Hannan play, but did not notice him much. This was confusing at first, until I remembered that a stay at home defenseman is not suppose to be noticed. He does seem to have more offensive instincts than advertised. He also got burned up the middle once and was in the box for the PP goal. I am sure he played well for the most part, particularly since I did not notice him most of the game.

Can't win em all.

CAPS DEFEAT BLUES 4-1

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Final Score: Capitals 4- Blues 1

W: Varlamov L: Halak

Goals: Wash- Laich (Backstrom, Semin), Gordon (Poti, King), Backstrom (Knuble, Carlson), Backstrom (Ovechkin, Erskine)

StL- Steen (Crombeen, Johnson)

DC Hockey Spot Recap:

The Capitals accomplished three things in their win over the St Louis Blues that have not happened often:

1) Scored any goals on Halak - After Halak almost by himself ended the Capitals quest for the cup last year, the Capitals made him look human.

2) Played a complete 60 min games- The Capitals are famous for falling asleep for 5 minutes a game and letting teams back into the game. They came close to falling apart late in the 2nd, but only a deflection was able to make its way past a stellar Varlamov.

3) Won in St Louis- The Caps were 0-7-1 in their previous 8 visits to Scottrade Center in StL.

Highlights, LowLights, and Fun Observations

- MVP: Varly- Made a TON of saves he had no business making. Reminds you of a young Hasek at times. Queue the goalie battle in DC.

- Highlight of the Game: Lots to choose from, but I loved Ovechkin's hit on Sbokota behind the net.

- Lowlight of the Game: Karl Alzner's 'stach.

- Positive Observation: Matt Hendricks and Boyd Gordon are very valuable to this team. And John Carlson might be our most complete defenseman, as a rookie. Always seems to be in the right place and is an equal contributor on both ends of the ice.

- Revalation of the Night: Ovechkin needs a new move. The cut across from the left wing to the middle does not work anymore.

- Disappointment of the Night: DJ King did not fight. What good are you???

- The Counts:

- Chimera "I'm faster than you": None that stuck out. Hendricks had a few though.

- Green Slips: 2-3, although some might have been Semin's

- Semin Stick Penalties: 1

Final Thoughts

The Capitals really seem to have put that awful stretch of three games behind them. They looked good in all aspects of the game tonight. Varlamov was spectacular in net and seems to have much better rebound control this year. And you really are beginning to see why everyone was calling for more grit in the offense as Hendricks, Gordon, and Co were at times the best players in the building. And the impressive thing is they have done it without their superstar lighting the lamp. Tomorrow against Dallas will be a real test as it is the second of a road back to back against a team playing very well right now. But when the Capitals are on their game, they are tough to beat. And that is without the Great 8 being his great self.

A DAY OF EXORCISMS

Two really interesting games on tap in the NHL tonight; Flyers v Bruins and Capitals v Blues. These two games are the rematches (in a way) of the two biggest upsets/choke jobs of the 2009-2010 NHL Playoffs. The Flyers became only the 2nd team in NHL history to come back from a 3-0 deficit as they defeated the Bruins and ultimately advanced to the Stanley Cup Finals. And while the Capitals did not lose their 1st round series after winning the President's Trophy to the Blues, the main catalyst for the travesty is the new goalie for the Blues, Jaroslav Halak.

So do these games mean anything? Not really, particularly on December 1st. But wins from the Bruins and Capitals will sure make their fans happy. I cannot speak for Bruins fans, but as a Capitals fan I will be thrilled if the Capitals win 10-0 tonight. And I would love if Semin scored 5 of those.

In other news:

- Crosby, Price, and Big Buff were the NHL Stars for the Month of November. Hard to argue against any of those, particularly Big Buff who has proved everyone wrong and has excelled on the blue line in Atlanta. I am curious who the other vote getters were. I would assume Stamkos, Semin, and Pavelec likely would be the next three.

- Scott Hannan will make his Capitals debut tomorrow night in Dallas. So nothing new on the back end tonight, but up front has some interesting stories to watch. How will Johansson do with his first crack at full time 2nd line center duties? Will DJ King go toe to toe with Cam Janssen or BJ Combreen? Will Fehr or Knuble break out of their slumps knowing that the Capitals moved some offensive fire power?

- Good article by Scott Burnside on ESPN today regarding the Capitals trade. He compares the move to when Tampa Bay traded for Darryl Sydor in their Cup winning season and asks whether this is a possible franchise altering moving that pushes the Capitals to the Cup. He also thinks another move could happen at the deadline, maybe even for someone like Brad Richards. That is of course pure speculation, but I would lose my mind if that trade went through.