Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Prior to Tuesday, Matt Niskanen had only scored three times all season, but this week he found the back of the net twice, both game-winners. He also provided the crucial assist for the Caps game-winner vs. the Penguins on Tuesday night. Let’s take a look back at his heroics.
Tuesday March 1 vs. Pittsburgh:
It looked like Nisky’s slapshot went in, however the puck went off of T.J. Oshie’s stick as he was ultimately credited with the goal on the power play. Nicklas Backstrom fed Niskanen from the top of the slot as he fired a one timer a one-timer. Oshie’s stick touched the puck as it traveled in. Regardless, it still haunted Niskanen’s former team.
Wednesday March 2 vs. Toronto:
It was déjà vu. The Caps had the man advantage in a 2-2 game at home in the third period. Backstrom passed the puck to Niskanen as he fired it from the top to score and give Washington the eventual 3-2 win. This time, he was credited with the goal.
Saturday March 5 at Boston:
Following Friday night’s 3-2 loss to the Rangers on home ice, the Capitals began a four-game road trip on Saturday night against the Bruins. Unlike the previous three games this week, all ending with a 3-2 score, last night’s game was a 2-1 affair that saw Niskanen come up big in overtime. Andre Burakovsky fed the puck to Nisky and his slaphot went past Boston goaltender Tuukka Rask to give the Capitals their 100th point on the season.
By Michael Marzzacco
Niskanen had a great week. Some of the other articles this past week have called attention to the less then stellar performance from the first two lines at 5on5. Ice time needs to be earned and at this point going out West the 4th line followed by the 3rd line deserves more ice time than the first two lines. Ice time should be 4th, 3rd, 2nd, then 1st. This should not have anything to do with stardom or egos. 1 or 2 games of this may send the message needed to turn things around and may help with the first period blahs.
Like Trotz says “everyone must be accountable”.