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After failing to score a goal in the first three games of the 2016-17 season, the Capitals’ third-line finally has a goal, thanks to some nice hustling from defenseman Nate Schmidt.

Taking the puck at center ice, Schmidt carried the puck into the offensive zone and fired a pass to Justin Williams, who redirected it past Florida Panthers goaltender Roberto Luongo.

On a great feed from Nate Schmidt, #Caps get on the board early on @JustinWilliams‘ 1st goal of the season. #CapsCats on @CSNMA. #RockTheRed pic.twitter.com/U9UVDhpLwc

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) October 21, 2016

The goal is Williams’ first of the season and Schmidt’s first assist and point on the year. Evgeny Kuznetsov would knock home a rebound to give the Capitals at 2-0 lead early in the first period.

The effort from the third-line is encouraging, considering that Williams, Eller, or Brett Connolly failed to make any noise in the game two nights ago. While Williams is a proven producer for the Caps, Eller and Connolly are the newest additions to the team and neither have been particularly impressive in their short time with the Caps.

Schmidt’s hustle and determination on the play is also a good sign for the Capitals. While he may not be as productive offensively as his fellow young blueliner Dmitry Orlov, Schmidt has shown signs of being a solid, two-way defenseman and has become more involved in the offensive rush this season, something that could bode well for his offensive totals. Hopefully, all four players wil start to gain some steam over the next few games, as the Caps will be an even better team if all their lines are clicking.

Smart screen and tip from @kuzya92 for the second Caps goal. #CapsCats pic.twitter.com/SLGZmFZPhU

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) October 21, 2016

By Michael Fleetwood

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