The Caps close out their road schedule in the preseason by heading down to Raleigh to take on the Hurricanes. The Caps are 3-0-1 in the preseason and will look to finish strong. Here is what the lineup should look like tonight.
Forwards:
Ovechkin-Kuznetsov-Williams
Johansson-Burakovsky-Oshie
Chimera-Stephenson-Galiev
Laich-Latta-Collins
Defense and Goalies:
Alzner-Niskanen
Schmidt-Chorney
Stanton-Carrick
Holtby
Peters
Other Notes:
*Yesterday the Caps released Madison Bowey, Chris Bourque, Carter Camper, and Paul Carey to join the Hershey Bears camp. Bowey, who is one of the Caps best prospects was sent down so he can play a lot of minutes for the Bears.
*Justin Williams will get a chance to play on the top line tonight. It looks like Trotz wants to take a look before deciding if it will be Oshie or Williams on that line.
*Chandler Stephenson will get a chance to impress Barry Trotz some more tonight as he is in a battle with Derek Roy for the third line center job. Remember that Roy is a try out while Stephenson is under contract.
*The 7th defensemen battle continues has Taylor Chorney, Ryan Stanton, and Connor Carrick are in the lineup. If I had to guess I think Stanton is making a case for that position as he has experience from his time in Vancouver.
*Sean Collins has been a surprise this preseason and has survived the first round of cuts. He will have his chance to show what he's got tonight.
*Marcus Johansson will make his preseason debut tonight. Johansson has been fighting a minor injury for a couple of weeks but will get a chance to play tonight.
*Michael Latta is back in tonight after being banged up a bit as well. This is a big year for Latta who is trying to make his way in the NHL.
*It appears that Braden Holtby will start tonight. With only 3 games left in the preseason I would think at some point Holts will get a full game but not sure if it will be tonight. Regardless Justin Peters will back him up.
*Overall things are starting to take shape. The team has played well and hopefully that will continue. Last thing is Nick Backstrom practiced today, that is a good sign but he still does not have a time table for his return.
Gametime 7:00 pm and it is not being televised
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
Postgame Recap: Caps 3 Islanders 1
The Caps improved to 3-0-1 in the preseason by beating the Islanders 3-1 last night at the Barclays Center. The Caps got goals from Sean Collins, Andre Burakovsky, and a late empty net goal by Karl Alzner to secure the win. (No Highlights)
My Thoughts:
*It looks like the line of Sean Collins, Carter Camper and Stan Galiev could be a Hershey line here in a week or so. As Camper and Galiev each got an assist on the 2nd period goal scored by Collins.
*The Caps struck on the power play in the 3rd period when Andre Burakovsky scored to give the Caps a 2-0 lead. Tom Wilson and Derek Roy got assists on the goal. It is possible that Brakovsky-Roy-Wilson could be the Caps third line to begin the season if Marcus Johansson and Nick Backstrom are healthy by then.
*Philip Grubauer started the game and stopped all 13 shots that came his way in 30:39 of the game. After that Justin Peters came in and stopped 10 of 11 shots in the final 29:11 of the game. Overall solid night for the goalies.
*Liam O'Brien is fighting for a roster spot, last night he Scott Mayfield in the first period. O'Brien needs to show that toughness if he has a chance to land a spot on the roster.
*The third defense pairing of Aaron Ness and Madison Bowey did pretty well. Each of them ended the game with a plus-1 rating. Ness got 15:27 of ice time while Bowey got 17:42.
*Overall with the game not being on TV I can only say so much but it looks like the Caps through 4 preseason games are playing well no matter who is in the lineup. That is also a good sign for the Hershey Bears when some of these guys report later in the week.
*Another note is the Caps want more offense from Tom Wilson and so far he has a goal and assist. Hopefully he can continue that because with his size he can be a huge asset to this team.
What's Next: Wednesday Sept. 30th at. Carolina 7:00 p.m with no TV
My Thoughts:
*It looks like the line of Sean Collins, Carter Camper and Stan Galiev could be a Hershey line here in a week or so. As Camper and Galiev each got an assist on the 2nd period goal scored by Collins.
*The Caps struck on the power play in the 3rd period when Andre Burakovsky scored to give the Caps a 2-0 lead. Tom Wilson and Derek Roy got assists on the goal. It is possible that Brakovsky-Roy-Wilson could be the Caps third line to begin the season if Marcus Johansson and Nick Backstrom are healthy by then.
*Philip Grubauer started the game and stopped all 13 shots that came his way in 30:39 of the game. After that Justin Peters came in and stopped 10 of 11 shots in the final 29:11 of the game. Overall solid night for the goalies.
*Liam O'Brien is fighting for a roster spot, last night he Scott Mayfield in the first period. O'Brien needs to show that toughness if he has a chance to land a spot on the roster.
*The third defense pairing of Aaron Ness and Madison Bowey did pretty well. Each of them ended the game with a plus-1 rating. Ness got 15:27 of ice time while Bowey got 17:42.
*Overall with the game not being on TV I can only say so much but it looks like the Caps through 4 preseason games are playing well no matter who is in the lineup. That is also a good sign for the Hershey Bears when some of these guys report later in the week.
*Another note is the Caps want more offense from Tom Wilson and so far he has a goal and assist. Hopefully he can continue that because with his size he can be a huge asset to this team.
What's Next: Wednesday Sept. 30th at. Carolina 7:00 p.m with no TV
Monday, September 28, 2015
Pregame Notes: Washington Capitals at. New York Islanders
The Caps are in Brooklyn tonight to take on the Islanders at their new home the Barclays Center. The Caps are 2-0-1 in the preseason and look to continue their solid play. Here is the lineup based on the morning skate.
Forwards:
Laich-Burakovsky-Wilson
Bourque-Roy-Beagle
Collins-Camper-Galiev
O'Brien-Sill-Carey
Defense and Goalies:
Alzner-Niskanen
Schmidt-Orlov
Ness-Bowey
Grubauer
Peters
Other Notes:
*Tom Wilson will be in the lineup tonight, Wilson scored in the preseason opener but has not played since .
*From what I have heard Philip Grubauer will start tonight and then Justin Peters will come in at some point.
*Tonight we should see two thirds of the defense we will most likely see on Oct. 10th. As Karl Alzner and Matt Niskanen will be one pair, and the young defense pair of Nate Schmidt and Dmitry Orlov.
*Again I am curious to see what Madison Bowey can do tonight. Bowey had an assist in the overtime loss in Boston last week.
*Aaron Ness impressed me in the preseason opener and is trying to win the 7th defensemen spot. He will be paired with Madison Bowey tonight.
*Today the Caps released the following names to the Hershey Bears camp. Vitek Vanecek, Riley Barber, Jakub Vrana and Tyler Lewington. Those guys should all get minutes with the Bears this season. Though Vanecek might be headed for the South Carolina Stingrays.
Gametime 7:00 p.m and is not going to be televised
Forwards:
Laich-Burakovsky-Wilson
Bourque-Roy-Beagle
Collins-Camper-Galiev
O'Brien-Sill-Carey
Defense and Goalies:
Alzner-Niskanen
Schmidt-Orlov
Ness-Bowey
Grubauer
Peters
Other Notes:
*Tom Wilson will be in the lineup tonight, Wilson scored in the preseason opener but has not played since .
*From what I have heard Philip Grubauer will start tonight and then Justin Peters will come in at some point.
*Tonight we should see two thirds of the defense we will most likely see on Oct. 10th. As Karl Alzner and Matt Niskanen will be one pair, and the young defense pair of Nate Schmidt and Dmitry Orlov.
*Again I am curious to see what Madison Bowey can do tonight. Bowey had an assist in the overtime loss in Boston last week.
*Aaron Ness impressed me in the preseason opener and is trying to win the 7th defensemen spot. He will be paired with Madison Bowey tonight.
*Today the Caps released the following names to the Hershey Bears camp. Vitek Vanecek, Riley Barber, Jakub Vrana and Tyler Lewington. Those guys should all get minutes with the Bears this season. Though Vanecek might be headed for the South Carolina Stingrays.
Gametime 7:00 p.m and is not going to be televised
Friday, September 25, 2015
Postgame Recap: Caps 4 Canadians 3 SO
The Caps yet again made to overtime on Thursday, this time the result was nothing. The game would go into a shootout where T.J Oshie would work his magic and Dan Ellis stood his ground and the Caps were able to leave Montreal with a win.
(We have Highlights!!! Long video however)
My Thoughts:
*The new guys were very good last night as T.J Oshie had a goal in the first period and scored the winner in the shootout. Meanwhile Justin Williams would get two assists.
*Andre Burakovsky started the scoring in the first period after taking a pass from Justin Williams he would score from the slot area to give the Caps a 1-0 lead 1:55 into the game.
*Alex Ovechkin scored his first goal of the preseason on the powerplay in the second period. Evgeny Kuznetsov and Justin Williams had the assists on that goal.
*Jonas Siegenthaler made his debut last night and got an assist on the Oshie goal. Siegenthaler finished the night with a plus 1 rating and had 17:14 of ice time.
*Braden Holtby had an off night for his standards giving up three goals on just thirteen shots and played the first two periods. It could be that he was board because the Caps outshot the Canadians 43-25 for the game.
*Connor Carrick picked up an assist as well on the Oshie goal and played over 21 minutes of ice time. Good news for him he didn't take any penalties which plagued his first preseason appearance.
*Jason Chimera also got an assist on the Burakovsky goal early in the first period. Last year in the playoffs I thought Chimera played some of his best hockey. I think he is due for a good season this season as a part of Barry Trotz's leadership group.
*Overall it appears the Caps outplayed the Canadians but had some breakdowns in the first two periods. Things that can be cleaned up because I don't see Holtby giving up that many goals on thirteen shots that often. It was good to see them get through the overtime period and to get the win. More cuts will be coming.
What's Next: Monday Sept. 28th at NY Islanders 7:00 pm and looks like no TV but will keep you posted
(We have Highlights!!! Long video however)
My Thoughts:
*The new guys were very good last night as T.J Oshie had a goal in the first period and scored the winner in the shootout. Meanwhile Justin Williams would get two assists.
*Andre Burakovsky started the scoring in the first period after taking a pass from Justin Williams he would score from the slot area to give the Caps a 1-0 lead 1:55 into the game.
*Alex Ovechkin scored his first goal of the preseason on the powerplay in the second period. Evgeny Kuznetsov and Justin Williams had the assists on that goal.
*Jonas Siegenthaler made his debut last night and got an assist on the Oshie goal. Siegenthaler finished the night with a plus 1 rating and had 17:14 of ice time.
*Braden Holtby had an off night for his standards giving up three goals on just thirteen shots and played the first two periods. It could be that he was board because the Caps outshot the Canadians 43-25 for the game.
*Connor Carrick picked up an assist as well on the Oshie goal and played over 21 minutes of ice time. Good news for him he didn't take any penalties which plagued his first preseason appearance.
*Jason Chimera also got an assist on the Burakovsky goal early in the first period. Last year in the playoffs I thought Chimera played some of his best hockey. I think he is due for a good season this season as a part of Barry Trotz's leadership group.
*Overall it appears the Caps outplayed the Canadians but had some breakdowns in the first two periods. Things that can be cleaned up because I don't see Holtby giving up that many goals on thirteen shots that often. It was good to see them get through the overtime period and to get the win. More cuts will be coming.
What's Next: Monday Sept. 28th at NY Islanders 7:00 pm and looks like no TV but will keep you posted
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Pregame Notes: Washington Capitals at. Montreal Canadians
The Caps are in Montreal for their third of seven preseason games leading into the regular season. The game once again is not televised so tomorrow I will probably not have highlights but I will do my best. So here is the lineup for tonight's game based on the morning skate.
Forwards:
Ovechkin-Kuznetsov-Oshie
Chimera-Burakovsky-Williams
Vrana-Roy-Brown
Collins-Stephenson-Galiev
Defense and Goalie:
Carlson-Orlov
Stanton-Chorney
Carrick-Siegenthaler
Holtby
Ellis
Other Notes:
*I am not sure what the defense pairing will look like but these will be the six defensemen that play tonight. I for one am interested to see how Jonas Siegenthaler will do tonight. Drafted in the second round this year and looks to be a good prospect.
*I am also interested to see if Ovechkin-Kuznetsov-Oshie can continue to build their chemistry together. I thought they played well on Monday and I want to see if they can continue that.
*Barry Trotz said the Derek Roy and Chandler Stephenson are in a battle to make a roster spot at center. Roy played very well Monday and I didn't see Stephenson in Boston because they weren't on TV. So that will be a battle to watch for as we go on.
*Braden Holtby will start tonight, not sure if Dan Ellis will come in again midway through or if Holtby gets the whole game.
*I want to also see if Jakub Vrana can do something tonight. On Monday Vrana had a few chances and should have scored. He has good speed and hands but just want to see him continue his development.
*Connor Carrick needs to have a better night tonight then Monday. I believe he took three penalties, he needs to play well to work his way up the defensive depth chart.
*Dmitry Orlov looked good the other night for not playing in a hockey game for 18 or so months. I hope Barry Trotz gives him 20 or more minutes to get him into shape because he can be a difference maker this season if healthy.
*Overall it is the third preseason game, I want to see the boys have a good night so they can start building towards the regular season.
Gametime 7:30 p.m and is not on TV
Forwards:
Ovechkin-Kuznetsov-Oshie
Chimera-Burakovsky-Williams
Vrana-Roy-Brown
Collins-Stephenson-Galiev
Defense and Goalie:
Carlson-Orlov
Stanton-Chorney
Carrick-Siegenthaler
Holtby
Ellis
Other Notes:
*I am not sure what the defense pairing will look like but these will be the six defensemen that play tonight. I for one am interested to see how Jonas Siegenthaler will do tonight. Drafted in the second round this year and looks to be a good prospect.
*I am also interested to see if Ovechkin-Kuznetsov-Oshie can continue to build their chemistry together. I thought they played well on Monday and I want to see if they can continue that.
*Barry Trotz said the Derek Roy and Chandler Stephenson are in a battle to make a roster spot at center. Roy played very well Monday and I didn't see Stephenson in Boston because they weren't on TV. So that will be a battle to watch for as we go on.
*Braden Holtby will start tonight, not sure if Dan Ellis will come in again midway through or if Holtby gets the whole game.
*I want to also see if Jakub Vrana can do something tonight. On Monday Vrana had a few chances and should have scored. He has good speed and hands but just want to see him continue his development.
*Connor Carrick needs to have a better night tonight then Monday. I believe he took three penalties, he needs to play well to work his way up the defensive depth chart.
*Dmitry Orlov looked good the other night for not playing in a hockey game for 18 or so months. I hope Barry Trotz gives him 20 or more minutes to get him into shape because he can be a difference maker this season if healthy.
*Overall it is the third preseason game, I want to see the boys have a good night so they can start building towards the regular season.
Gametime 7:30 p.m and is not on TV
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Postgame Recap: Bruins 2 Caps 1 OT
The Caps fell to the Bruins last night after David Pastrnak scored 12 seconds into overtime to give the Bruins the win at TD Garden. The Bruins outshot the Caps 32-27 in the contest. (Sorry No Highlights again)
My Thoughts:
*With the game not being on TV I will do my best, however I do know that Justin Peters was good last night. Peters stopped all 15 shots he faced till he was replaced by Philip Grubauer. Grubauer then gave up two goals on 17 shots.
*Nate Schmidt got on the board with a power play goal that tied the game in the third period. Schmidt appears to be in a battle for a spot on the third defense pairing, however I have him as the 5th defensemen so I think he makes it.
*Madison Bowey logged 21:22 of ice time last night and assisted on the powerplay goal by Nate Schmidt. Bowey was also had an even plus minus. I hope they keep Bowey around for a little bit because I would like to take a look at him.
*Zach Sill who was signed this offseason away from Pittsburgh also assisted on the powerplay goal in the third.
*The only other thing I can say is the Caps need work with the new overtime because they gave up a goal quickly on Monday when they had the practice 3 on 3. Last night they had to play to decide the game and it was a quick one as well. But it's the preseason and everyone needs to get use to it.
*Overall now the Caps are 1-0-1 in the preseason. I expect the group we saw on Monday get back in Thursday in Montreal but we will wait and see.
What's Next: Thursday Sept. 24th at. Montreal 7:30 p.m No TV as of now
My Thoughts:
*With the game not being on TV I will do my best, however I do know that Justin Peters was good last night. Peters stopped all 15 shots he faced till he was replaced by Philip Grubauer. Grubauer then gave up two goals on 17 shots.
*Nate Schmidt got on the board with a power play goal that tied the game in the third period. Schmidt appears to be in a battle for a spot on the third defense pairing, however I have him as the 5th defensemen so I think he makes it.
*Madison Bowey logged 21:22 of ice time last night and assisted on the powerplay goal by Nate Schmidt. Bowey was also had an even plus minus. I hope they keep Bowey around for a little bit because I would like to take a look at him.
*Zach Sill who was signed this offseason away from Pittsburgh also assisted on the powerplay goal in the third.
*The only other thing I can say is the Caps need work with the new overtime because they gave up a goal quickly on Monday when they had the practice 3 on 3. Last night they had to play to decide the game and it was a quick one as well. But it's the preseason and everyone needs to get use to it.
*Overall now the Caps are 1-0-1 in the preseason. I expect the group we saw on Monday get back in Thursday in Montreal but we will wait and see.
What's Next: Thursday Sept. 24th at. Montreal 7:30 p.m No TV as of now
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
Pregame Notes: Washington Capitals at. Boston Bruins
The other group of Caps are in Boston tonight to try to move the Caps to 2-0 in the preseason after last night's 2-0 win over the Carolina Hurricanes. Here is the lineup based on the morning skate.
Forwards:
Bourque-Burakovsky-Williams
Beagle-Stephenson-Carey
Elgestal-Latta-Brown
O'Brien-Sill-Mitchell
Defense:
Stanton-Carlson
Schmidt-Bowey
Moore-Lewington
Peters
Grubauer
Other Notes:
*Justin Williams will put on a Caps jersey for the first time tonight and will be on the top line. Williams projects to be the second line RW.
*Justin Peters will start the game tonight but like last night the goalies will split time. So, we will also see Philip Grubauer.
*I am interested to see how Madison Bowey does tonight. Bowey is a guy that should be in Hershey but he had a heck of a season last year.
*Andre Burakovsky will play center tonight, again with Nick Backstrom out he might have to play center for the first month or so of the season.
*I am interested also to see if Liam O'Brien can have a strong preseason like he did last year. In my opinion there is a roster spot for a depth player. I think it's between O'Brien, Chris Brown, Stan Galiev, and you can throw Zach Sill and Jakub Vrana in the conversation to.
*So, tonight another group of guys gets their turn to try to impress Barry Trotz. It looks like first cuts will be coming this weekend so we will see what happens.
Gametime 7 p.m and the game is not televised
Forwards:
Bourque-Burakovsky-Williams
Beagle-Stephenson-Carey
Elgestal-Latta-Brown
O'Brien-Sill-Mitchell
Defense:
Stanton-Carlson
Schmidt-Bowey
Moore-Lewington
Peters
Grubauer
Other Notes:
*Justin Williams will put on a Caps jersey for the first time tonight and will be on the top line. Williams projects to be the second line RW.
*Justin Peters will start the game tonight but like last night the goalies will split time. So, we will also see Philip Grubauer.
*I am interested to see how Madison Bowey does tonight. Bowey is a guy that should be in Hershey but he had a heck of a season last year.
*Andre Burakovsky will play center tonight, again with Nick Backstrom out he might have to play center for the first month or so of the season.
*I am interested also to see if Liam O'Brien can have a strong preseason like he did last year. In my opinion there is a roster spot for a depth player. I think it's between O'Brien, Chris Brown, Stan Galiev, and you can throw Zach Sill and Jakub Vrana in the conversation to.
*So, tonight another group of guys gets their turn to try to impress Barry Trotz. It looks like first cuts will be coming this weekend so we will see what happens.
Gametime 7 p.m and the game is not televised
Postgame Recap: Caps 2 Hurricanes 0
The Caps opened the preseason at Verizon Center last night and behind goals by Tom Wilson and Derek Roy were able to beat the Hurricanes. (No game highlights, this video was the only one I could find)
Video of Lack robbing Vrana
My Thoughts:
*Braden Holtby played a little more than half the game and looks very comfortable in the crease. Holts made saves look easy. Dan Ellis came in and was able to shut the door from there.
*Tom Wilson who the coaching staff wants more goal production this year started off well with a goal in the third period.
*Derek Roy who is try to make the roster had a great game last night. He was all over both ends of the ice and could have had more than one goal. However, he would score to add insurance late in the third period. If he plays that way all preseason he should make the team no problem.
*The young guys looked pretty good, Christian Djoos had an assist on the Wilson goal. Jakub Vrana had a few chances and was robbed by Eddie Lack in the second period. Stan Galiev had a solid game even though he didn't get on the score sheet. Conner Carrick didn't have a great night though as he took three penalties.
*Dmitry Orlov I thought did pretty well in his first game action in 18 months. I think once he got caught flat footed but other than that he was solid on the puck and made good passes. However, he will need a lot of minutes in the preseason to get ready for the season.
*They may not have scored but the line of Alex Ovechkin, Evgeny Kuznetsov, and T.J Oshie look like they already have good chemistry building. With Nick Backstrom possibly out till late October it will be important for them to continue to build that chemistry.
*Overall it was the first preseason game. Even though the first period was ugly I thought the team looked better and better as the game went along. Not a bad start.
What's Next: Tonight Sept. 22 at. Boston 7 p.m and appears it will not be televised
Video of Lack robbing Vrana
My Thoughts:
*Braden Holtby played a little more than half the game and looks very comfortable in the crease. Holts made saves look easy. Dan Ellis came in and was able to shut the door from there.
*Tom Wilson who the coaching staff wants more goal production this year started off well with a goal in the third period.
*Derek Roy who is try to make the roster had a great game last night. He was all over both ends of the ice and could have had more than one goal. However, he would score to add insurance late in the third period. If he plays that way all preseason he should make the team no problem.
*The young guys looked pretty good, Christian Djoos had an assist on the Wilson goal. Jakub Vrana had a few chances and was robbed by Eddie Lack in the second period. Stan Galiev had a solid game even though he didn't get on the score sheet. Conner Carrick didn't have a great night though as he took three penalties.
*Dmitry Orlov I thought did pretty well in his first game action in 18 months. I think once he got caught flat footed but other than that he was solid on the puck and made good passes. However, he will need a lot of minutes in the preseason to get ready for the season.
*They may not have scored but the line of Alex Ovechkin, Evgeny Kuznetsov, and T.J Oshie look like they already have good chemistry building. With Nick Backstrom possibly out till late October it will be important for them to continue to build that chemistry.
*Overall it was the first preseason game. Even though the first period was ugly I thought the team looked better and better as the game went along. Not a bad start.
What's Next: Tonight Sept. 22 at. Boston 7 p.m and appears it will not be televised
Monday, September 21, 2015
Pregame Notes: Washington Capitals vs. Carolina Hurricanes
The Caps open the preseason tonight at the Verizon Center against Metro Division rival Carolina. It's been a great offseason but now it's time for some hockey. Here is what the lineup should look like tonight.
Forwards:
Ovechkin-Kuznetsov-Oshie
Chimera-Laich-Wilson
Vrana-Roy-Galiev
Collins-Camper-Barber
Defense:
Alzner-Niskanen
Ness-Orlov
Djoos-Carrick
Holtby
Ellis
Other Notes:
*T.J Oshie will make his Caps preseason debut tonight, the first time putting on a Caps sweater since he was traded to the Caps in July.
*Dmitry Orlov missed the entire season last year, he will be in tonight and I expect him to play a lot during the preseason to get ready.
*Derek Roy will be in tonight, Roy was invited for a try out but could add some important center depth this season if he makes the team.
*I am excited to see the the young guys, Riley Barber, Stan Galiev, and Jakub Vrana will all be in tonight. If Vrana and Galiev light it up during the preseason one of them might have an outside shot at making the roster out of camp.
*Braden Holtby and Dan Ellis will be the goalies tonight. Not sure who will start but they are both going to play.
*Regardless of the score tonight there will be a 3 on 3 overtime period. This will enable the teams to get a taste of it before the regular season.
*Overall this will be the first game for everyone so it may be a bit sloppy but it will be nice to see the boys out there again tonight.
Gametime 7 p.m on CSN
Forwards:
Ovechkin-Kuznetsov-Oshie
Chimera-Laich-Wilson
Vrana-Roy-Galiev
Collins-Camper-Barber
Defense:
Alzner-Niskanen
Ness-Orlov
Djoos-Carrick
Holtby
Ellis
Other Notes:
*T.J Oshie will make his Caps preseason debut tonight, the first time putting on a Caps sweater since he was traded to the Caps in July.
*Dmitry Orlov missed the entire season last year, he will be in tonight and I expect him to play a lot during the preseason to get ready.
*Derek Roy will be in tonight, Roy was invited for a try out but could add some important center depth this season if he makes the team.
*I am excited to see the the young guys, Riley Barber, Stan Galiev, and Jakub Vrana will all be in tonight. If Vrana and Galiev light it up during the preseason one of them might have an outside shot at making the roster out of camp.
*Braden Holtby and Dan Ellis will be the goalies tonight. Not sure who will start but they are both going to play.
*Regardless of the score tonight there will be a 3 on 3 overtime period. This will enable the teams to get a taste of it before the regular season.
*Overall this will be the first game for everyone so it may be a bit sloppy but it will be nice to see the boys out there again tonight.
Gametime 7 p.m on CSN
Sunday, September 20, 2015
New Season, High Expectations for the Caps
Season 2 of All Things Caps Hockey has kicked off, the preseason begins tomorrow. After losing a tough seven game series yet again to the New York Rangers the Caps hit the ice with expectations that are sky high. The Caps may have lost veterans Troy Brouwer, Joel Ward, and Mike Green. However, the addition to Olympic hero T.J Oshie and Stanley Cup Champion Justin Williams have made the Caps on paper a Stanley Cup contender.
I think the Caps should have made it to the Conference Finals last year, but they fell just short. However, the moves they made this offseason have made the team better. With a mix of vets and up and coming young stars like Evgeny Kuznetsov and Andre Burakovsky the Caps look to have a solid team. Not to mention last season was the best all around season in Alex Ovechkin's career.
The reason I feel so excited to see this team this season is because of the way they played in the postseason last year. Yes, they fell short again but this team has not only gotten stronger with talent over the offseason but they have leadership as well. The addition of Justin Williams and T.J Oshie will be huge. The defense lost Mike Green but Nate Schmidt and Dmitry Orlov will be the new third defense pairing and people will know about them soon enough. Not to mention Braden Holtby has turned himself into an elite goalie.
Barry Trotz is changing the culture in D.C, and I think he is putting the pieces together to take the Caps to new heights. This season will be full of ups and downs, however, I feel something special is forming with this coach and team. I can't wait for Oct. 10th.
It all starts: Tomorrow vs. Carolina 7 p.m on CSN
I think the Caps should have made it to the Conference Finals last year, but they fell just short. However, the moves they made this offseason have made the team better. With a mix of vets and up and coming young stars like Evgeny Kuznetsov and Andre Burakovsky the Caps look to have a solid team. Not to mention last season was the best all around season in Alex Ovechkin's career.
The reason I feel so excited to see this team this season is because of the way they played in the postseason last year. Yes, they fell short again but this team has not only gotten stronger with talent over the offseason but they have leadership as well. The addition of Justin Williams and T.J Oshie will be huge. The defense lost Mike Green but Nate Schmidt and Dmitry Orlov will be the new third defense pairing and people will know about them soon enough. Not to mention Braden Holtby has turned himself into an elite goalie.
Barry Trotz is changing the culture in D.C, and I think he is putting the pieces together to take the Caps to new heights. This season will be full of ups and downs, however, I feel something special is forming with this coach and team. I can't wait for Oct. 10th.
It all starts: Tomorrow vs. Carolina 7 p.m on CSN
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Caps Top 10 Prospects: #1 Jakub Vrana
The final prospect on my list of Top 10 in the Caps organization is 19 year old 2014 1st Round pick Jakub Vrana. Last season in 44 games in Sweden, Vrana scored 12 goals and 12 assists. However, it was what he did when he got to Hershey which was impressing. In just 3 regular season games Vrana got 3 assists. In the Calder Cup Playoffs in 10 games Vrana had 2 goals and 4 assists. Vrana made a difference and was a dangerous player for the Bears.
This season I believe he will be a Hershey Bear, but he is definitely going to be someone to watch during the preseason because if he lights it up he may find himself on the Caps roster. Again, I think it is better not to rush him and to let him play top six minutes under Troy Mann and learn to be a pro. When the Caps drafted him the knock on him was his defensive game. However, from what I saw at rookie camp last year he is better than what they said. No matter what team he played on this year it will be interesting if he can continue the momentum he built at the end of last year.
First video is of Vrana's first AHL goal, second is Vrana wearing Helmet Cam at 2015 Development Camp
This season I believe he will be a Hershey Bear, but he is definitely going to be someone to watch during the preseason because if he lights it up he may find himself on the Caps roster. Again, I think it is better not to rush him and to let him play top six minutes under Troy Mann and learn to be a pro. When the Caps drafted him the knock on him was his defensive game. However, from what I saw at rookie camp last year he is better than what they said. No matter what team he played on this year it will be interesting if he can continue the momentum he built at the end of last year.
First video is of Vrana's first AHL goal, second is Vrana wearing Helmet Cam at 2015 Development Camp
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Caps Top 10 Prospects: #2 Madison Bowey
Today we look into a guy who had quite a productive year last year. Madison Bowey was the Captain of the Kelowna Rockets and won the WHL title. After that the Rockets would lose in the Memorial Cup. Bowey, 20 y/o, was drafted in the 2nd round in 2013 was in the middle of it all. Last season Bowey scored 17 goals and 43 assists in the regular season. What was impressive was he also scored 7 goals and 12 assists in 19 playoff games. Also not to mention he was a member of the gold medal winner Canada in the World Junior Championships.
I really like the skill set Madison Bowey has, he can skate and make good outlet passes. However, I see him has a John Carlson type guy. I think he can provide a good offensive punch but he is solid in his own zone as well. I think he is a year away but he is definitely going to be a big contributor to the Caps soon. This season though it will be good to play a ton of minutes for Troy Mann down in Hershey. I can't wait to see how he does as a pro this season.
First Video is Bowey at Development Camp, second video is of WJC Highlights
I really like the skill set Madison Bowey has, he can skate and make good outlet passes. However, I see him has a John Carlson type guy. I think he can provide a good offensive punch but he is solid in his own zone as well. I think he is a year away but he is definitely going to be a big contributor to the Caps soon. This season though it will be good to play a ton of minutes for Troy Mann down in Hershey. I can't wait to see how he does as a pro this season.
First Video is Bowey at Development Camp, second video is of WJC Highlights
Sunday, September 13, 2015
Derek Roy joins Caps for a Tryout
News has just come in that C Derek Roy will be with the Caps for a Professional Tryout. Roy, 32 y/o, in 72 games last season with the Nashville Predators and the Edmonton Oilers scored 12 goals and added 20 assists. This could be a possible answer to the third line center position and with Nick Backstrom recovering from hip surgery could add some depth. However, I think Roy will still have to have a good preseason to make the Caps roster.
Side note, the Caps rookies are in Florida for a three game tourney. Yesterday they lost to the Florida Panthers Rookies 2-1 in a SO. If you are interested tonight at 7 the Caps Rookies play the Lightning.
Side note, the Caps rookies are in Florida for a three game tourney. Yesterday they lost to the Florida Panthers Rookies 2-1 in a SO. If you are interested tonight at 7 the Caps Rookies play the Lightning.
Caps give C Derek Roy a Tryout
The Caps have given veteran center Derek Roy a tryout, more to come in a few.
Monday, September 7, 2015
Caps Top 10 Prospects: #3 Riley Barber
Today's prospect is Riley Barber, Barber has spent the last three years with Miami University. During that time the 21 year old 6th round pick from 2012 has been a point per game player. This year he will finally be turing pro. Last season, Barber scored 20 goals and 20 assists in 38 games, he was also the captain of the USA squad in the World Junior Championships.
I am excited to see Riley Barber make the jump to the pros this year. Most likely you will see him playing for the Hershey Bears, possibly as a top six forward as well. As a 6th round pick it appears the Caps may have found a gem. I still think he is a year away from making it to the NHL but he looks every bit the part of someone who can be an NHL player in a year or so. I won't be surprised if Barry Trotz gives him a long look during training camp here in the next couple of weeks. I would like to see him have a strong season in the AHL next year and then plan on him being with the Caps the next season.
(Video of Barber Goal at UM, Second video Barber goal in U18 Tourney)
I am excited to see Riley Barber make the jump to the pros this year. Most likely you will see him playing for the Hershey Bears, possibly as a top six forward as well. As a 6th round pick it appears the Caps may have found a gem. I still think he is a year away from making it to the NHL but he looks every bit the part of someone who can be an NHL player in a year or so. I won't be surprised if Barry Trotz gives him a long look during training camp here in the next couple of weeks. I would like to see him have a strong season in the AHL next year and then plan on him being with the Caps the next season.
(Video of Barber Goal at UM, Second video Barber goal in U18 Tourney)
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