Perry Nelson/USA TODAY
If you missed the game last night, or opted for sleep in the third period (kudos to you), here are the primary takeaways from last night’s 4-1 loss in Edmonton.
QUICK FIVE
1. Power-less – The Capitals power-play continues to struggle,statistically. However, both powerplay units showed improved offensive zone time, and registered decent scoring chances against Edmonton on Wednesday night. The goals will come if they continue to play the man-advantage as they did last night.
2. Speed Kills – Opponents team-speed continues to be an issue at times for the Capitals. The Caps have demonstrated the ability to neutralize an opponents speed, but if a lapse occurs, it can be lethal.
3. Second Thoughts – The second period started out much better for the Capitals, as most of the first few minutes was played in Edmonton’s zone. Edmonton scored on their first shot of the second period, near the midway point of the period. The goal seemed to zap the Caps intensity from that point forward.
4. Orlov? Or Not? – Dmitry Orlov wobbled once again. He was deked, which led to him turning his back on an offensive line rush that led to a goal. He’s had a pretty decent start to the season, so I don’t take too much from his performance last night, as the entire team looked a bit jet-lagged. I do feel his quick-decision making warrants continued monitoring, as this is something you can’t teach your way out of.
5. Helloooooo Mr. Wilson!? – Tom Wilson was invisible last night.
Additional Thoughts:
Andre Burakovsky looked decent on the first line last night, particularly when it came time to find Ovechkin. Burakovsky made several “bang-bang” feeds to Ovechkin for scoring chances.
The Caps cycle game was much improved last night. The ability to move the puck around in the offensive zone seemed to hit mid-season form at times.
Most of last night’s game could be attributed to the coast-to-coast travel, change in time zones, etc., so much of it could be a wash. We’ll have a better feel on Saturday night in Vancouver.
By Jon Sorensen
It’s too early for Caps fans to hit the panic button. I think a month in, this team will be firing on all cylinders.
Pingback: Game Preview: Capitals @ Canucks | NoVa Caps