Game #50 Recap: Caps 1 New York Rangers 2 (OT-SO)

The Capitals played a hard nosed defensive game and led 1-0 until six minute left in the third period. Then a fluky bounce ends up in the back of their net to tie the game 1-1. The two teams played a scoreless overtime period and went on to the shootout. Braden Holtby play a brilliant 65 minutes in net for the Capitals but was simply outmatched in the shootout. After stopping 28 of 29 shots in the game, the rookie gave up 3 goals on 4 attempts in the after action skills competition. The Capitals went 2 for 4 and came away with their 4th overtime loss in 10 games. The Caps took the lead in the second period when Marcus Johansson hit Matt Hendricks perfectly with a seem pass that Hendricks deflected into roof netting of the goal. The Capitals once again could not generate any sustained offense and the power play woes continued. The Capitals are struggling to get offensive chances due in part to an ineffective second line scoring threat. The Caps may need to made a move to shore up this line prior to the trade deadline that is rapidly approaching. Their are 32 games remaining and Washington needs to get its feet under them or it will be another short summer for the boys.

Of Note:

• Matt Hendricks scored for the second consecutive game and buried his shootout attempt with another fake, deke move like the one he used on the breakaway goal in Toronto.
• Alex Ovechkin was all over the ice but just couldn't get the puck to bounce his way. On several occasions he lost the puck in stick handling moves and his shots were right at the goalie for the most part. On the power play he generated momentum and looked to be in the prime scoring area and he chose not to shoot and passed up a golden opportunity. I think he needs to think less and react more.
• Scott Hannan picked up his first assist as a member of the Capitals. His drop pass to Marcus Johansson allowed the center to pick up Hendricks heading to the net.
• The power play was 0 for 2 on the night but the penalty kill was 2 for 2 and have moved back up to #2 in the rankings.
• Braden Holtby deserved better but I do know what he will be working on this off season. In 8 games the rookie is 4-2-2 with a 0.908 save percentage. Not bad.

Official Recap
Game Summary
Event Summary
Shootout Summary