The Caps remained win-less in Minnesota with a 2-1 loss to the Wild last evening. The game was the complete opposite of the game in Carolina. The Caps gave up an early goal and looked to be a step behind all night long. Michael Nuevirth put up another good effort in the net for the Caps but had little support from the rest of the team. Minnesota scored again in the last minute of the second period. With the Wild on the power play, Karl Alzner was called for another penalty and in the commotion the Caps stopped skating and the Wild put the puck in the net. So the Caps started the third period on the penalty kill and proceeded to take two more penalties in the frame. The Caps then put up a furious pace in the final five minutes. Alex Ovechkin cut the lead to 1 with a little over a minute remaining. Unfortunately that was all the offense they could muster. The Capitals failed to score in the first period for the 6th time in 10 games. This trend has been a major reason the Caps have been unable to play their game.Simply put the team needs to be better prepared to start each game.
Of Note:
- Ovechkin's goal broke a five game goal drought for the left winger. Mike Green got the only assist on the play.
- Nicklas Backstorm had a strong game but was robbed twice by the Minnesota goalie of the same name. Backstrom led everyone in face-off wins and percentage, winning 17 of 24 draws (71%).
- Matt Bradley was making his presents felt. He delivered a game high 5 hits.
- The Caps killed 4 of the 5 power plays they faced and have allowed 5 goals on 44 chances in the first 10 games. The Caps power play was anemic again going 0 for 2. The Caps have not scored a power play goal in the last 5 games.
- Nuevirth stopped 15 of the 17 shots he faced. He has played in all of the Capitals first 10 games.
- The teams 22 shots on goal was a season low.
- The Caps travel to Calgary to face the Flames on Saturday.
Official Recap
Game Summary
Event Summary
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