Wild is the best way to describe the Rangers 5-4 shootout win over the Capitals tonight. What else can you say? There were back-to-back-fights early on, the inept Ranger offense scored four goals in regulation despite the inept power play going 0-5 with the man advantage and a fluky goal in the fourth round of the skills competition secured two points for the home side.
It wasn't pretty, it was infuriating at times and it was far from reassuring but as my buddy Mr. X from the Blue Seats said, you just gotta win them right now. It isn't about style points.
*During our postgame chat, Mr. X brought up an interesting thought - because of Lauri Korpikoski's development, Brandon Dubinsky has become expendable. I am not sure I am ready to write Dubi off at this point, but if he doesn't regain his scoring touch soon, he could make for some great trade bait. Nigel Dawes made a great play on the Naslund goal and scored in the shootout but certainly should be worried come deadline day as he can't seem to keep a consistent effort this season.
*Can anyone explain why Aaron Voros felt the need to fight Matt Bradley right after the exciting main event of Brashear and Orr? Does Voros actually think he needs to earn his roster position by fighting? The spot is his as long as Petr Prucha is the only other player vying for the slot. *Pru had 22 power play points over 68 games played coming out of the lockout so why shouldn't he be given a look over Voros? If not for the pathetic "man advantage," the Rangers could have won this in regulation. Redden and Drury got a ton of ice time and neither one put together anything resembling a good scoring chance. Mr. X thinks that Drury is hurt and it is as good a theory as any why he looked so bad of late. Redden has no excuse for his lack of offensive talent but some credit must be given as he played one of his best games defensively this season.
*It was good that Alex Semin didn't return for a bongo encore as that little extra offense could very well have sank the Rangers.
*As for that other Alex, even when Ovechkin doesn't score, he is still a huge part of the game. He worried the Ranger defense, played physically (13 hits!!), scored in the shootout and got himself a nice cross-ice helper on Mike Green's first goal of the night.
*Nik Zherdev's disappearing act is now getting tiresome and is certainly dragging the Blueshirt offense down. How someone with so much skill can't put 2+2 together is quite frustrating.
*Oh Tom Poti, how I still hate thee. I was asked how they rank and I think Poti is my No. 1 and Redden has passed Malik. It is a tough call, they are/were all just so bad and tried so little while earning so much ...
*On that note, Scott Gomez wasn't particularly good in this one. Most of the power play woes can be attributed to him but he did collect a pair of assists at even strength - granted one was a completely undeserved second assist but a point is a point, right?
*I'm sure there is more but I am exhausted so feel free to chime in in the comments with anything I missed/skipped.
*And finally: PHW Three Stars
3-Ryan Callahan - one goal and one assist.
2-Mike Green - two goals.
1-Lauri Korpikoski - one goal and one assist.
Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Paul Mara - Sure he scored a goal but his best work was in the Ranger end as he stepped up to challenge the persistent Capital attack, including Ovie.
2-Cally - He was the best Ranger on the ice but you have to wonder why he can't perform with the same reckless abandon every night.
1-Green - Not only did he score on to suh-weeeeeeeet shots, he was also solid on defense in more than 28 minutes of ice time.
30-20-5: A Wild Night Against the Washington Capitals
The NHL season is a rollercoaster ride of emotions for fans, and in the case of the 30-20-5 record for the team in question, there have been highs, lows, and games that are simply unforgettable. In this article, we're going to delve into one such memorable matchup where the team with this record faced off against the formidable Washington Capitals. This clash was a wild ride filled with ups, downs, and a hockey experience that left fans buzzing. So, let's explore this game in detail and address some FAQs along the way.
The Set-Up:
The team with a 30-20-5 record had been having a decent season, juggling their performance between flashes of brilliance and moments of inconsistency. They were hovering around the middle of their conference, showing potential for a playoff run, but they needed to string together more wins to secure their spot.
The Washington Capitals, on the other hand, were a force to be reckoned with. They boasted a roster of seasoned veterans and superstar talent, making them perennial contenders. Their presence on the schedule was a true litmus test for any team.
The Pregame Hype:
As the puck dropped for this matchup, the atmosphere was electric. The team with a 30-20-5 record was facing a daunting challenge, and their fans were eager to see how they would fare against the Capitals' powerhouse lineup. The pregame buzz was palpable, with fans from both sides anticipating an intense battle.
The Game Unfolds:
The first period was a showcase of skill and speed from both teams. The Capitals drew first blood with a thunderous slapshot that beat the opposing goalie, but the team with a 30-20-5 record responded with a quick goal of their own. The game was tied, and the crowd was on the edge of their seats.
As the game progressed, the intensity only grew. The Capitals' power play unit was firing on all cylinders, but the opposing goalie made a series of incredible saves to keep their team in the game. On the other end, the team with a 30-20-5 record had their fair share of scoring opportunities, but the Capitals' netminder was equally impressive.
The Turning Point:
In the third period, with the game still deadlocked, the team with a 30-20-5 record found themselves on the penalty kill. It was a critical moment in the game, and the penalty-kill unit rose to the occasion. They not only killed off the penalty but also managed to score a shorthanded goal that sent the home crowd into a frenzy.
The momentum had shifted, and the team with a 30-20-5 record capitalized on it. They scored another goal shortly after, taking a commanding lead. The Capitals pulled their goalie in a desperate attempt to stage a comeback, but the home team's defense held firm, sealing the victory.
The Aftermath:
The final score read 30-20-5 in favor of the team that had faced the mighty Washington Capitals. It was a game that showcased their resilience, determination, and ability to rise to the occasion. The players received a standing ovation from the fans, and the arena reverberated with chants of victory.
FAQs:
1. How did the team with a 30-20-5 record manage to kill off a critical penalty and score shorthanded?
The penalty-kill unit displayed exceptional teamwork and defensive prowess. They pressured the Capitals' power play, forcing turnovers and creating scoring opportunities. The shorthanded goal was the result of quick thinking and execution on the counterattack.
2. Who were the standout players in this game?
The goaltender for the team with a 30-20-5 record played a crucial role, making key saves to keep his team in the game. Additionally, the penalty-kill unit and the player who scored the shorthanded goal were heroes of the game.
3. What does this victory mean for the team's playoff hopes?
This victory was a significant confidence booster for the team's playoff aspirations. It showcased their ability to compete with top-tier teams and demonstrated that they could rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
In conclusion, the game with a 30-20-5 record against the Washington Capitals was a thrilling rollercoaster of emotions, filled with spectacular plays and moments that will be etched in the memories of fans. It was a testament to the team's resilience and their potential to make a deep playoff run. As the season continued, fans eagerly anticipated more unforgettable moments on the journey to playoff glory.
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