Dan Wallace: Once Again Goaltending Hurts Wild

That three goal burst by the Caps was very much on the defense. Several break downs leaving Stalock out to dry. Really wouldn't put the blame on him on any of those.

I watched the game last night - starting in the 2nd period.

I came away somewhat impressed by the Wild - a good team that was working hard. But the Wild just aren't as good as the Caps. The problem wasn't Stalock, but rather Ovechkin, Vrana, Oshie, Backstrom, Wilson, Carlson, and Orlov.

I've never been a big Stalock fan, his net movement and his spastic unorthodox style IMO is not conducive to being a number one goalie at the NHL level... That being said, he's a quality back up on most teams... I do believe that he has refined his overall play a bit in the latter half of this season and has arguably played well in the absence of Dubnyk. However, Stalocks best cannot carry this squad to post season success. He's a big question mark in close games.


This defensive unit has not played all that well lately IMO... The offensive play has been outstanding since BB was dismissed for whatever reason. I think Soucy was a bigger loss than most would have imagined... Patyrn has been ok since his return and Hunt is a decent offensive d man, but doesn't excite to many in his own zone. Dumba has scored a few points as of late, but has been getting beat thoroughly in his own zone and seems to be back to making bone headed plays/passes which haven't been to glaring because they haven't resulted in direct goals against but nonetheless result in added defensive zone time which does put stress on the rest of the team as well as the net minder.

I thought the Caps defense looked pretty solid in the second and third periods. They have been struggling mighty lately. You knew the Wild were going to come on strong in the third and it just didnt feel like any of the shots were all that dangerous

I thought the Caps defense looked pretty solid in the second and third periods. They have been struggling mighty lately. You knew the Wild were going to come on strong in the third and it just didnt feel like any of the shots were all that dangerous
- BrenosBagels

I get they have not been perfect, but they do have a 6'3", 220lb D on pace for 100 points this year...... They are solid.

On another note, you boys are going to have a ton of cap space this offseason, and Kaprizov is joining your squad. Paired with a UFA signing, this club could be in great shape next season