On paper it didn't look good for the Coyotes - not only were they up against the best team in hockey, but their prized rookie Clayton Keller was out sick.
Led by two goals by under-the-radar rookie Christian Dvorak, the Coyotes routed the Caps 6-3.
You wouldn't expect the Capitals to lose to the Coyotes, let alone allow six goals since they're the league's best defensive team, but it happened.
It was a crazy day all around yesterday as after the game I watched Real Time and at one time found myself agreeing with Rick Santorum!!
The Coyotes have some trouble at centre ice, but Dvorak is capable, Keller is a centre (though maybe not right away) and so is Strome. The team's other writers keep longing for Brad Richardson, but they forget that, like Burmastrov, he also sucks.
The fact is, those two guys aren't centres on a playoff team. The Coyotes need to make the Playoffs next year, so they're going to have to solve their C depth issues with trades and FA signings. Certainly Holland, Burmistrov, Richardson cannot be on the same team, if that team wants to be good.
Also, Doan was back, but I barely care. No offense, he needs to retire.
From a Capitals perspective, the game was brutal, but meaningless. You can' t blame these guys for not caring at this point, they've all but locked up the President's Trophy, and even if they lose it, I doubt they care.
Fact is, if they win they get to face Boston, Toronto or Tampa - all of which provide upset potential in one way or another + an added risk of looking forward to round two.
If they slip to second, they get the banged up Penguins and a shot for revenge.
There is only a week to go! (and I guess bad blow for the Islanders, but they were never making it!!).
Thanks for reading