Round 1 Preview: Washington Capitals vs. Philadelphia Flyers

 Well here we are, the Caps long successful regular season is over. Now it is time for them to start their quest for Lord Stanley's Cup. It will not be easy as they will take on their rival the Philadelphia Flyers in Round 1. Here is the schedule for the series.

Game 1: Thursday April 14th at. Washington 7:00 p.m
Game 2: Saturday April 16th at. Washington 7:00 p.m
Game 3: Monday April 18th at. Philadelphia 7:00 p.m
Game 4: Wednesday April 20th at. Philadelphia 7:00 p.m
*Game 5: Friday April 22nd at. Washington TBA
*Game 6:Sunday April 24th at. Philadelphia TBA
*Game 7: Wednesday April 27th at. Washington TBA



My Thoughts:

*The Flyers forwards have some speed, and they have some skill. In my opinion the Caps will have to shut down Jakub Voracek, Wayne Simmonds, and their captain Claude Giroux. If they can do that then the Caps will have a major advantage.

*Another key matchup will be how the Caps can keep Shane Gostisbehere in check as well. Ghost has had a hell of rookie season but I feel the Caps might be able to make things tough for him if they can forecheck him hard.

*The goalie matchup, Braden Holtby vs. Steve Mason will be a interesting one. I don't see Mason as a top tier goalie, but he has played well the second half of the season. If Braden Holtby can play the way he is capable then it will put a ton of pressure on Mason.

*The Caps need to be strong up and down the lineup, all 4 lines will need to be rolling. That will enable the Caps to wear down the Flyers over time.

*Defense will need to be sharpe, they have to be smart in their pinches because the Flyers speed can be an issue. Of course they have to keep away from the odd man rushes. I will be interested to see if Mike Weber gets in the lineup with the Flyers being a heavy team.

*Another thing is that this will be an emotional series, these teams really go at it. So, the Caps have to play with their heads. The Flyers will test that, so especially a guy like Tom Wilson needs to play his physical game. However, he needs to do it before the whistle. Willy, did have an impact in the Islanders series last year, he can do that again this year.

*Overall I am excited that the playoffs are about to start, and this series is going to be a fun one. It will be very tough for the Caps, the Flyers are going to be a tough opponent for sure. I think the Caps have to get off to a good start and make a statement in the first game. We will see it should be fun.


My Prediction:

 I think the Caps are still the overall better team, the Flyers though will make it a tough series. The reason I think the Caps still win the series is because they have more overall balance than the Flyers, and the better goaltender. Caps in 6