1. Braden Holtby – Since getting pulled from the game against COL where he allowed three goals on three shots, Holtby has bounced back quite well. In his last two starts, he stopped 67 of 72 shots (.931 SV%). He hasn’t looked perfect but anything is better than what he was doing to start the season. If the Capitals want to have a shot at winning the Metro, they will need this brand of Holtby more consistently.
2. Power Play Success – Making the most of their limited opportunities in these two games, the Caps converted 3 of 5 power play chances. TJ Oshie is off to a hot start this season and is third in the league with four power play goals. When teams double Ovi, it usually opens up more room for Oshie down low. Usually Carlson to Backstrom to Oshie. Tic Tac Toe at its finest! In the first three games of the season, the Caps went 2 for 11 on the PP, but since Kuznetsov returned from his three-game suspension (dude likes to party), the Caps have gone 9 for 26 on the PP which is 34.6%. It is nice to have him back!
3. John Carlson, American Hero – I WILL KEEP BEATING THIS DRUM! Carlson has 18 points through the first 10 games and is the third defenseman to EVER hit those totals in that span to start a season. He is also currently on a seven-game point streak. Carlson for Norris.
Overall, I generally liked the team play for these two games. There were stretches in both games where the Capitals we severely outplayed and outshot but they found a way to win. The special teams are clicking right now and we are getting superior goaltending. That is usually a recipe for success. We have some tough contests left in October so lets hope they can keep it going!
Remaining October Schedule
10/22 @ Calgary Flames (5-4-1) - W1
10/24 @ Edmonton Oilers (7-1-1) OT1
10/25 @ Vancouver Canucks (5-3-0) W1
10/29 @ Toronto Maple Leafs (5-3-1) W1
Thanks for reading!