I can't wait to see how that juggles everything else.

The all-Russian line? Maybe he will add some needed aggression to the line. Backstrom isn't getting it done.

Please tell me Erskine is getting replaced as well. That guy is an idiot. Someone needs to explain why he plays over Eminger.

Good move. You need something to get your 65 goal scorer going. It does nto have to be forever, but something needed to be done.

Now, just give us the good news that Eminger is in.

Smells like a flip-flop with Backstrom.

Hopefully it gives Ov a spark.

Good! A real center. No dissing on Backstrom, but for such a crucial game Ovy needs someone who can get him the puck a little better. I predict next year Backstrom will be a lot tougher to check in the playoffs, but this year, we need Feds.

@ WTH - Erskine and Jurcina - can't decide who's worse.

I agree with this move. No one has annoyed me more throughtout this series than Backstrom. He simply has not fought for the puck at all. He's tenative on the power play. But on the bright side, he still is still just a kid and will hopefully learn from this experience.

This is going to be a good toss up for the flyers. Backstrom is a good passer and will really help Semin and Laich on the second line. Anyone agree? Fedorov on the top line will help ignite ovie and kozie (hopefully). That line needs a good spark and bringing Fedorov up from the second line should provide additional speed for the flyers defense and should throw a whole new look onto the ice.

LETS GO CAPS!! BELIEVE!

As for last night:
Blaming Huet is the last thing true caps fans should do. He has led us to the promised land for the first time in 5 years! Without him in net, i don't think we'd be where we are. The problem is within his inconsistent defense! Jurcina is just a retard for trying to force a pass through 2 flyers when the entire right side was wide open. A cone marker would make a better defenseman than Erskine. Morrisson shouldn't try to force a puck through Mike Richards who ended up receiving a penalty shot (total BS by the way). Huet was literally hung out to dry for most of the night.

Another thing. If you were a NHL defenseman and you saw your opponent burying your goalie to the ice WTF would you do about it? You need to clear the front of the net and NOT let agitators like F-ing Hartnell and scorers like that little pansy Briere run over hime!! Grow some balls D and hit someone!! Is that too hard to ask for?

I know its hard for Ovie to find time and space but it is not going to get any better at all without trying. For the first time in his short career it looked as if Ovie was playing very inconsistant and at times looked as if he didn't care at all (mainly since every time he was on the ice there was a black shirt following him everywhere). When he did find time and space the passes were either 10 ft in front of him or 10 ft behind him or in his skates. Absolutely horrible display of teamwork by this team tonight. However, this being said, I believe these past 2 games will light a fire under each one of their A$$es for the rest of the series!

And PLEASEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE someone demolish SCOTT THE P.O.S. HARTNELL from standing in the front of the net!!! ALong with that S.O.B. BRIERE!

PUT EMINGER IN AND SCHULTZ OUT! fedorov did a better job on D than schultzy!

COMMON CAPSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS! Come too far to pack it in now. FIGHT FOR ALL DC!!

I think the caps can win in 7 with a win thursday. (fingers crossed)

Philthadelphia definately has the most CLASSLESS and IGNORANT fans in the entire league! Any areana chanting profanity as clear as day on national tv is an absolute disgrace to the respective city! So congrats Philthy on taking home the Ignorance of the Day award!

@ Jill

Erskine is worse. By far.

Regardless the news is positive. Clearly BB has already started a much needed shake-up!!! Hopefully Federov will shoot on net more than Backstrom, so some of the attention goes away from Ovie.

Backstrom is not used to the physical play of the Flyers. This wasn't a real issue for him in the Swedish league. Philly has been moving him off the puck at will. Putting Feds at ctr is a good idea. Now can we just do something about our D?

This looks like a desperation move by Boudreau.

It certainly won't hurt, considering Backstrom has been completely eliminated physically in this series.

If they put Backstrom on the line with Brooksy and keep Cooke on the third line... that should create more balance.

In order for the caps to win this series, they are gonna need a tough, rugged forward on every line and this move will hopefully accomplish that and create more space for ovie and koz to work with.

Now, just get John Erskine aka the guy who skates like he is stuck in cement off the friggin ice.

Seems to me we've played 1 period of solid hockey through this whole series. When is someone going to stand-up for Huet? Absolutely no intimadation on our parts - the flyers own us there. I heard BB say in all due time and he doesn't want us taking penalties, but we are taking stupid penalties anyways! Looks like this series is over unless we grow up quickly and start playing with pride.

I approve of Sergei on the top line. And Eminger does need to get back in the lineup. But if Schultz is out then is there anyone who can replace Erskine/Jurcina in the lineup or are we stuck with them for Game 4?

Katie, I think the answer is "no."

Time for the Backup Plan
By Jason La Canfora
.......
But a change in net can alter a team's identity, foster a rebirth of sorts and give an opponent a new wrinkle to consider, with no position being more important or influential this time of year. It's much too late to finally add that pounding, hulking defenseman long missing to punish forwards around the crease (impish Flyers forward Daniel Brière, of all people, is wreaking havoc in such high traffic areas), but the right goalie in the right moment can steal a game or sway a series, overcoming a discrepancy in personnel.

AKA gmgm=discrepancy in personnel

Great article Jason, you're right on the money!

@ longtimecapsfan

I totally agree. With Fedorov shooting more and working for the puck will allow Ovie to find a little more time and space to perhaps provide some offense.

last nite were the vary first hocky game i ever seen i like to see wwf resling and nascars i realy think that that liitle cutie pie briere shuld be my little love man he is so much hottie i relly have a big man crush on him!

Posted by: MCD | April 16, 2008 11:26 AM

must be from the DUNGEEN...

For the love of all things sacred... it's FedOrov people. O! It's a freaking O! Arrrghhhh

Interesting.

Hopefully, this tells Backstrom that we really need him to put on another 20 pounds in the off-season.

But also, I think this is for pure name recognition, too. Philly has reason to fear Federov, because they know what he can do, and will allow him a litle more room. Granted, Backstrom needs to earn their respect, too, but, in this series, at least, I think he's too small to do it effectively.

But this looks good. Kozlov has two shooters to feed. (Not to mention, he hit the post himself on a good shot yesterday.)

The Caps need some luck, bad.

@ Jill

Definitely Erskine. Young D are prone to make mistakes, Juricina's giveaway was terrible. But Erskine? The guys is consistently out of position. Not only does he make mistakes, but he purposefully takes penalties, like that elbowing. I'd much rather have Eminger out there. He is at least confident with the puck, and he won't take bone head penalties. Someone tell me why he is still in the doghouse.

Backis was ok in physical game (shoulder on Richrads), but he was worthless otherwise. Too much for a young kid.

Fedorov definitely deserved to be on top line. I just wish he could shoot more.

Do you guys know that he almost won hardest shot competition at all-star? He was shooting like over 100 mph.

And boy, what a smooth skater he is even at 38.

Now Flyers let Backis to hold the puck and eat PP minutes because he can't shoot.

I sure hope Feds will unleash 100mph if all his partners will be covered.

This is an excellent move by BB. Now Erskine and Schultz need to hit the pine. Erskine is too slow to catch anyone and Schultzy is too inexperienced and not 100% game shape. Too bad one of the two will stay in the lineup. I say Schultz should sit and Eminger should enter!

Hopefully this doesn't hurt Backstrom's confidence. We still believe in you Nicky, even if you can't grow a beard!
I'd rather add someone like Laich to the first line to replace Kozlov. Laich will be a menace around the net and create havoc for Backy and OV to do their thing. Kozlov is playing way too soft. Put him down on the 3rd line, maybe his skill will complement them better.

It's easy to remember how it's FedOrov...his brother's name is FEDOR Fedorov...HA.

I think we are finaly seeing the defense we saw in the first part of the season. When BB took over we were so attack, attack, attack all the time that we forced the other team to back off our D and it made it easier for them to move the puck. Now that Philly has turned the table we are seeing our D for what they really are. We knew this was the area we needed to address a while back, so hopefully we can take care of it in the off season

La Canfora sucks, he has been following hockey and the Caps lately. Last time he watch playoffs was probably in 1998 as a beat writer for Red Wings

Erskine needs to seat especially if he isn't going to take out Hartnell or Richards. How many times are they going to run our goalie?

Federer - n. Suisse tennis star
Fedorov - n. Russian hockey star

@james

"Philthadelphia definately has the most CLASSLESS and IGNORANT fans in the entire league!"

You're an idiot. How classless is it to call it "Philthadelphia?" Oh yeah, it's not only classless, but, as you say, ignorant.

I'm with the folks that think that this is a place for talking about HOCKEY. You know, the game that we're all addicted to. Not stupidity like calling a city names.

828- I hear you man, I do. They made a great run. The difference between the reg season and the playoffs is really staggering. Every year I'm reminded just how different it is. Its easy to forget over 82 games. I never give up. Its just not my way. Of course, that often means that I'm fighting a losing battle. But I fight, and I think thats the most important thing. Its why i got picked on the playground. I HATE the fact that 3-1 will decide it, I really do, but if they lose 3 straight then they aren't winning 3 straight. Very very few teams have pulled that off and I dont see this being one of them. THe blueline is too thin. Now does that mean that they can't win this series? HELL NO! If they win thursday, we're all square. But the problem so far has been Backstrom, Kozlov (2/3 of the top line) Jurcina, Erskine and Schultz (half the blueline). The lines have to change. The mindset has to change the most. These guys need to be dirty, mean and vengeful. THey aren't right now. It looks like Men vs Boys. Green is the only one thats fought (damn comcast). Bradley Cooke and Brashear should be laying waste to the Flyers. Until that happens, until the lines evolve, until the soft get hard (heh), the Caps won't win.

I'm getting really frustarted with the way that Huet is being touched/kicked/beaten to the ice.

Looking for a way for Clark to test his groin in a game situation but not deal with the stress of a whole game? Put him in for one shift to flatten Briere. No one else seems to be doing it.

"Philthadelphia definately has the most CLASSLESS and IGNORANT fans in the entire league!"

Yes, they are. Chanting profanities with little kids in attendance? Attacking Tie Domi in the penalty box? lol. And the list is going on and on. Ask any hockey fan on this planet, and he would tell you that.

Fedorov*, excuse me

Switchups are good. Think the Brashear-Gordon-Fehr needs to get more ice time too. They don't deserve to be in the 4th floor basement. Fehr and Brashear are +2 so far this series... leading plus/minus on the team.

We should have signed Alzner. He is NHL ready now. We could have used him when Pothier went down. He is better than Jurcina, Erskine & Eminger

LOL!!! La Canfora sucks??? You sound kind of silly saying he doesn't know hockey in one breath and the next pointing out he was the beat writer on for the Detroit Red Wings.

Which is it?

All i know is that I actually approve of this move. Backstrom's passes have NOT been that strong in this series. And he doesn't have enough confidence in his physicality to really rough anyone up. So he's been kind of useless. Now they need to BENCH Jurcina's rear end. And it's probably too late to call anyone up, unless they did it and we haven't heard yet. But Emminger needs to play. I wouldn't mind seeing Erskine on the bench too. But that's a mathematically impossiblity. Because he's REALLY useless. And I think at some point we have to put Olie in the goal at least for a while during one game. He's got the attitude and he won't let a single person run all over him. And maybe he could fire up the team more. SOMEONE/THING has to. It's been frustrating to watch this series from home because you can see all of the things going on all over the ice that people may not get a full view of at the rink.

I don't know, but pull it together Caps! We're behind you.

Clark isn't coming back. Can we just let it go???
Backstrom is just getting pounded--not his fault he is young and small. As for the rest of them, time to step it up.

I actually like when people say/type Federov. I don't know why, but it sounds cool. I am sure Fedorov don't mind either.

:)

I apologize for the actions of the Philly fans last night. My sons were at the game, and I know they can be a little bit out of control sometimes, but they are good hearted people, well except for Britt

Ugh...EMINGER..sorry stupid extra M

??? You sound kind of silly saying he doesn't know hockey in one breat

It was a typo. I meant "he has NOT been following hockey lately and esp. Caps and it shows".

I officiate amateur hockey of all levels and I must say that when I ever I officiate a game and either one of the teams is from Philly, I know I'm in for dirty play, classless fans, clueless coaches, and self important twits who think that by becoming belligerent they will get their own way. I have never seen a collection of self-proclaimed "hockey fans" who are as completely ignorant of hockey as many of the Philly folks. All they know is how to be dirty (not unlike their city), how to give cheap shots, use sticks as weapons and how to start altercations. Oh, and they are quite good at shouting expletives and showing their true ignorance. Perhaps that is what they mean by brotherly love? Therefore, I find it to be quite humorous when I see one of these people question ANYONE'S hockey knowledge. I can tell you from first hand experience with those people, that most of them, not all, but most have about as much hockey knowledge as they do class, which is very, very little. Perhaps that is to be expected from a city whose greatest and most revered athlete is a fictitious boxer from a cheesy '80s movie.

Its make or break time for our beloved caps. Win in game 4 to have momentum coming home or lose and be against the ropes and really feel the pressure. With that being said, the caps do seem to play their best with their backs to the wall.

COMEON CAPS!!

surely one of the floaters from last night deserves a rest
Backstrom is scared stiff
Cooke was nowhere
Brash wouldnt do his job after huet and ov got mugged
the grit guys like stecks laich fehr worked hard
federov impressed
but our d needs all forwards to help out
I STILL THINK LAING DESERVES A START
IT COULD ONLY HELP A TEAM THAT HAS A LOT OF OF ITS PLAYERS WATCHING NOT PLAYING
philly has show playoff hockey is very different from regular season
hope the people in control of drafting sees this

To my understanding, Alzner is actually signed, it just doesn't go into effect, for whatever reason, until next season. Am I wrong?

Generally Erskine is worse than Jurcina, although the next time Jurcina wants to play he did last night, he should either be nice enough to gift wrap the puck before handing it the forechecker, or just put it in our own net, so as to avoid the suspense of having the forechecker score.

Finally EMINGER is back! I hope for good this time..

I think its time for the bigger, tougher Ollie to play Thursday

Jurcina wants to play he did last night, he should either be nice enough to gift wrap the puck before handing it the forechecker

I can guarantee you he will. He has learned the lesson.

BTW, several players did that, and one of them was Fedorov in the third. Flyers were good at applying the pressure, but Caps will watch the tapes and will be prepared for that in game 4.

GET ERSKINE OUT OF THERE. HE CANT KEEP UP with any speedy forward. Its not like hes clearing the crease for Huet. This has been going on for months, why the hell is he playing.

PLEASE....Someone send that punk Briere back to munchkinland where he belongs!

As for La Canfora, he is not one of hockey's sharpest minds but he does know a thing or two. And he knows sports. His observatoins are pertinent because they take into account reality without blind worship. We, my blogging and non-working friends, are closer to blind worship. La Canfora is right about switching goalies. Not because Huet has been bad (he's been, unfortunately, the predicted playoff Huet) and NOT because Huet NEEDS to be sat. The switch should happen because it changes things up for the Flyers. They have to solve something else suddenly. It affects THEIR game. Now, unfortunately, and with all do respect Mr. La Canfora, Jason wasn't articulate enough to fully develop that thought under his tight deadline.

Regardless, the point is that putting in battle worn and tested Olaf Kolzig, with his eye on a prize that proved suddenly and frightengly out of his grasp from the bench, will send a ripple through not only the Caps lineup, the Flyers as well.

Fedorov to the top line - great. He needs to shoot more. Right now the shots are coming from the defensemen. Not alot of shots from the wings or Centers.
Backstrom - He is young. He actually tried to shoot a bit yesterday. Putting him and Fedorov on the same side of the power play is useless unless Fedorov shoots.

As to D - you see what they are.

As to Goalie - I have a theory - they don't want to bench Huet, because they are concerned about resigning him. The goals he is giving up are similiar to the ones Godzilla was giving up earlier. (1 on 1's, short side ect.) Kolzig would be a better matchup vs this style of play. If BB is truly fearless, he will start Kolzig.

As to fights - DB tried a couple of times last night. But no one would go with him. Watch the last face off last night. He was hanging all over a Flyer - and they just skated away. I doubt these Flyers want to fight - they just want to bully. Best way to beat a bully? Don't react, choose the time and place and pound them. Coach BB is entirely correct - a time and a place.

Get Game 4!! Last night my 4 yr old son asked me - when I was taking him to a Caps game... uh oh... He is too young...

hehe
Take Care,
Matthew

It's time for Olie to play. At least he will actually protect/defend himself when someone charges the crease. He is also bigger than Huet which I think would help with the Flyers method of play. They seem to have Huet figured out.

Good move by BB.
And thanks god they're skating today.

I'm all for QL getting in a game. He could block those slap-passes from the point on their PP.

Tarik, any thought as to why they haven't entertained moving Kozlov off the first line instead of Backstrom? To me, it seems as though Backs is catching on to the level of intensity and physicality of the playoffs (an he certainly needs this experience), while Kozlov has looked completely intimidated, if not disinterested. Is there a (good) reason the Caps haven't entertained moving Kozlov off the first line?

Olie isn't the answer.

Laing isn't the answer.

Jurcina looks "tired", but I'm nervous about Emmy and Lepisto amongst the starting 6 D-men on the same night...

For being one of the biggest teams in the league, it seems pretty obvious that we are not the strongest.

On the bright side, i think Fehr was very impressive in his first NHL play-off game. Maybe he will be a mainstay in the line-up for years to come. It seems like he is more fit for play-off hockey at least

Interesting move. Backstrom seemed real slow last night, but of course I only saw what was on the TV. I would also take him out of the first unit of the power play. He seems hesitant to make passes, maybe he is thinking too much. By no means this means that I am down on him, I just think the coaches need to address some of his play.

I meant to say hesitant to make passes during the power play.

We know Patrick Thorensen has balls; not sure we can say the same about our d-men!

I'm happy with the increased Caps coverage at the Wash Post (read: Mike Wise's great columns) but La Confora's knee-jerk garbage article this morning made me sick. Simply useless article for anyone who's actually followed this team. He represents everything "last generation." This is a new team, with better players than when he covered. We need a big big game from Huet in game 4. Simple as that.

@King Huet,

Philly is indeed a classless city, but let's be fair, if anyone deserved to be beat up in the penalty box, it was Tie Domi. Now, maybe, Sean Avery.

Fun fact: Anagram for Tie Domi: Me Idiot

Anyone want to play a different game for a little bit- find the bright spots? Mike already named Fehr, personally I've been impressed by Semin. He's getting his chances and finishing his checks, I'm just waiting for him to break through.

@ Steve R, couldn't agree with you more on that last post. Olie isn't the answer. You ride the horse that got you there. Also Laing is not the answer. He lost a significant amount of value to the Caps after they brought in Fedorov and Cooke, two good penalty killers who also have other skills. Laing brings penalty killing to the table, not much else. Putting in Fehr over him was the right move (this isn't in retrospect either, I was calling for this before).

Jurcina isn't great, but he's what we have now. I'd sit him over Schultz if Schultz wasn't injured. The answer is NOT Lepisto. I think people are a bit too high on him. By a bit, I mean way too much.

@honed

I would agree with you if Semin hasn't whiffed on every shot.

@honed
I agree with you, Semin has been played great. I also like the play of Bradley.

Good move, but it won't much matter if they keep trying to play a finesse game. The changes we need to make extend FAR beyond juggling lines.

I am a huge HUET fan but he has played horrible. We need a bigger goalie. Put in Kolzig and see what happens. To many goals by HUET. Kolzig is a better is a matchup for the bigger flyers team

This team was built to possibly make the post season, not win in it. Big difference.

Fans should be kissing the feet of AZAMAT & Midget for being allowed to spend more money on their waste of a "team".

@old time hockey
Totaly, completely agree about Domi.

Corey reports that Fedorov is playing on the point on PP, Alex has been moved up front.

This is what I've proposed! BB heard me!!! :-)

Gainey is looking smarter every day.

Hey Koharski,"HAVE ANOTHER DONUT FAT BOY"

@Chief

Well, we got Huet for Sutherby basically. And he got us to the postseason. So it isn't a bad thing. But it does look like Gainey took a good chance in handing over the reigns to price.

@smartfan

I'm not convinced that Kolzig is the answer. He brings size to the table, and he definitely wouldn't tolerate the Flyers running into him and crap, but the type of goals Huet has been giving up have been exactly the type of shots Kolzig has been beaten with all year: Breakaways, 5-hole, and high blocker side. But then again, who really knows what would happen, maybe he finds some old playoff magic. I'm sure the thought has crossed Boudreau's mind, but personally I think it's too early to make the switch.

@ MTB

I might agree with you if they weren't as uninformed as Tony Kornheiser. Sure, they'll at least, maybe, stay to the end of the game, but their knowledge base is still extremely shallow when compared to Tarik or any one of us. It's nice they're paying attention, but I'd almost rather the paper reach out to one of us to write a column -- the fan base writing for the fan base, eh? It might say more than "the building is really loud" and "Look at all the red shirts and silly mohawks. These guys are 'rad'"

I hate that type of thing.

HEY D "f**KING HIT SOMEBODY"

Chief,

You saying you haven't picked up a new red shirt for the playoffs?

From NY Slap shot blog
Score: 5 FUNNY

Millions of hockey fans around the world awoke grumpy this morning. With both Washington and Minnesota losing, their hopes of a Stanley Cup Final which features Nicklas Backstrom facing Nicklas

Backstrom suffered a severe blow. The Caps now trail the Flyers two games to one. The Wild are now tied with Colorado two games each. In their repsective losses, Nicklas Backstrom played over 24 minutes and scored no points and Nicklas Backstrom was pulled after the second period having allowed five goals on 29 shots. Both will have to step it up to make this dream a reality. Let's Go Backstroms!

I loved it when Brash got a goal in the other game. I don't understand why Brash was not sent to send a message after Huet was run over last night. The Flyer's appear to think that we won't retaliate if they mess with Huet in the crease or anywhere else. I believe that protecting our goalie has to be a priority in the next game on Thursday.

I am not convinced that Olie is the answer. Huet has let in a few goals that he should have saved but most of the goals have come off screens and when his defense has let him down.

Kolzig:

i think they may stick with Huet Thursday night and if we lose then BB might give Olie a last ha'rah at home.

LET'S FACE IT BOY'S PHILLY IS BIGGER,STONGER AND MORE DETERMINED!!!

our defense is wilting and it affects our O. there's no question about it. forget about our top line not producing nonsense. our d which was never harrassed during the regular season cannot make a pass or get the puck off the boards to save a life. theres no communication and more importantly, their confidence is shatterred. Dale and Rod need to come down and give a pregame talk. Bruce is right, we havent played to our ability yet, and if we can find it...look out cause there's some building of goals backing up. caps 8 - flyers 3.

Alzner is not signed. The caps own his rights, but have not signed him to a contract yet. The arrangement is that unless he is on the big club, he must go baCk to juniors. So you do not want to start his rfa and ufa cycle starting until he is over 20 or ready. Should be next year. It is clear our defense could use him ...as well as Godfrey. The defensemen you see today will not be the same next year. Guys and Gals remember, a week ago we were happy to make the playoffs. This team is still in the rebuilding process and this series is going to teach them a whole lot about what is taking in the playoffs. That being said, bring in the big goalie...as I have said he will defend his crease.

The Caps settled down 2nd period and gave them some good opportuinites to tie the game. The Caps settled in their the last 2 periods of last night's game and should have a good chance to tie up the series tomorrow night.

no one is blamming HUET but he has never done well in the playoffs. That's why montreal made the switch. He got us here now lets give olie a shot. We have been giving up way to many goals. 3 goals in the playoffs should be enough to win a game. but were having to score way more.

I think with Kolzig what people are forgetting is he really hasn't played that bad the last couple months before Huet took the starting job, aside from the Chicago game. He isn't as much of a risk as before, at least in my opinion.

My worry is that they bench Huet, Olie plays well enough, but the Caps exit this round or next. Then, Huet is mad about being benched and leaves, Olie leaves, and we are stuck with a mad Johnson as our only goalie.

Chief,
12:31pm post is beautiful!

@Opita: Yeah, Bradley always plays his heart out, I hope they bring him back next year
@Hew: Oh I know, that's what I mean when I say I'm waiting for him to break through. He takes a lot of flack but he's responding well to the higher intensity of the playoffs.
Another bright spot- maybe Alzner or Finley will be ready next year?? lol

Wachovia center looked like "The Great Pumpkin" Charlie Brown

FREE T-SHIRTS FOR EVERYONE

For being one of the biggest teams in the league, it seems pretty obvious that we are not the strongest.

Bingo. Flash and Backstrom are on the weak side, as are Jurcina, Schultz and Eminger. Pothier is made of pillows. Clark, Ovie and Brash are our strongest. Bradley isn't as strong as the size of his bite.

And as mentioned by others, Olie and Laing aren't the answer. And despite some of La Canfora's assertions, Olie is a non factor until the series is at 3-1; you ride the horse that got you there unless you come up on the end in a hurry. (Turco has had a career full of great reg seasons and first rnd playoff exits.)

What needs to happen is this team has to dig deep and find the strength that is absent. They need to play like a cohesive team and hit, check and mercilessly fight. I'v been watching the other games, every night, and the Caps are easily the least physical team in the playoffs. Calgary and Minnesota are rough, as is San Jose. The rangers and devils are playing all out. So is Philly. That has to change or the outcomes will remain the same.

Hey Uncle Ted, Where's my T ????????????

Put Olie in already. What is BB waiting for? Huet earned three starts, and Olie has earned at least one too and he can take these guys. If no one is going to defend the goalie put the one in who can defend himself.

The only reason I wouldn't start Huet is if I wanted to tell my team that you've completely embarrassed him as a fellow teammate. But, mentally you can't take him out, philly would feed off of that waaay too much, you'd have to do it at home. Olie could provide a spark in game five if we lose tomorrow, but we wont.

Goaltending ain't the problem. Giving up odd-man rushes like candy on Yo-mama-ween and not clearing the traffic in front of your keeper are the problems.

I like the idea of the WWDD tshirt.
what would dale do

Keep Huet in.

Its night and day.

I love Olie, he's been a top flight goalie for as long as I've known the caps --- but thats over. His lateral movement and recovery are sooo slow and he leaves open nets for wrap arounds and put aways 10 times a night.

Huet has let some SOFTER goals in, but hes been solid otherwise.

I DO NOT support putting Olie in there.

LaCanfora just woke up from coma. What year is it? 1998?

Alright, hope he doesn't read this blog, but if he does, you really need to wake up, Jason.

HI my name is CC and i am a CAPS FAN

Welcome CC keep coming back it works if you work it

Did anyone else see the Frozen Four last weekend? Finley is a younger, i believe left handed, Jurcina. He looked terrible in the game with Boston College. Now, Boston College kicked Notre Dame's ass, too, but I noticed how slow Finley was, when compared to about anyone else on the ice. I'm not saying he won't be a good D-man one day, but, until he pulls a Jagr and does 100 one-leg squats per leg a day all summer long, he won't be up to NHL-speed next year.

Here's hoping.

When things aren't working you juggle and switch things up. Even though Kolzig sucks he has that 2% chance of carrying a team in the physical playoffs style. HUET has never been good in the postseason. Its showing.

We need more D. Bring up players; sami and make the line changes real short. 35-40 secs. keep the players fresh

This series is not even close, especially with Philly blowing game 1.
The only way Washington can win is if Philly beats themselves, otherwise it was over before it started.

Philly, from 30th last year to back into the post season, wha happened to the 5 year rebuild ?? hehe

@REEKIE
I didnt say Laing was the answer what I said was that his effort in the 40games he played was an example of hard work that it takes to win playoff games
I think he deserves a start while maybe some of the floaters and non performers could benefit from sitting down for a game.
I would rather have him play at his usual 110% than some our stars who are clearly uninterested in making the sacrifices needed to win playoff games.
he wont be the answer but he also wont be the problem like some of our other players are

...anyone heard from Ron C lately?? Where's the fearless prognosticator now? Good riddance...

The lads need to get together tonight and look each other in the eye and talk about being accountable to each other. They are a bunch of individuals right now, not the team they were in March. And Philly has forced that, so let's give them some credit, but we can swing it back our way.

Game 4 is the series--that has to be the mindset. The D needs to tighten their s%*! up. The O needs to put more pucks on net and get rebounds, and stop trying to make perfect plays. Huet needs some serious amnesia and come out and play the game of his life on Thursday, and I have no doubt he can do that. We have to come home 2-2; it's as must-win as it gets right now.

And for the life of me, someone needs to put Briere's face into the ice and Upshall's too, penalty be damned (our PK has been pretty good anyway)

Believe, Caps fans--we're not done yet.

12 steppin caps fan

3 Game grades... We need these signed by your parents and returned.

Ovechkin
1G 2A -2 12SOG 16hits 3TA 4GA
OV has only made his presence felt for about 5 minutes of 180 minutes of hockey. Credit the Flyers for doing something few have tried and failed to do. No excuse, he needs to be better, and he knows it.
D- (only because he scored the GW in game 1)

Backstrom
0G 1A -1 3SOG 0hits 0TA 3GA 58%FO
Our Calder candidate looks lost and scared. Not quite European hockey. Honestly, most 19/20 European players would be lost and scared.
F

Kozlov
0G 0A -3 5SOG 5hits 0TA 4GA
He has disappeared also, you'd expect more from Koz since he's a veteran of NHL play. Big, finesse guys get eaten up by Coburn/Timmonen.
F

Semin
0G 2A -1 9SOG 2hits 4TA 5GA
He has been the the most dangerous ineffective sniper in the series if thats possible. Having said that, he has stayed out of the box and at least is visible when he's out there.
C

Fedorov
0G 1A -1 6SOG 50%FO
He does the little things you dont see, but this team need more than little things. What more can you ask of him?
C

Cooke
0G 0A +/-0 5SOG 10hits
Another guy who has seemed to disappear. Besides registering 6 hits in the first game he has done nothing but missed 2 point blank shots on Biron. 6 hits first game, 4 the next 2? Cooke, you're suppose to get people mad at you.
D-

Laich
1G 0A -2 4SOG 3hits 58%FO
Has played better than most forwards, but that aint saying much. Credit him for crashing the net on his score. Need more action from him, maybe the promotion will help. His fall cost us the first goal in game 3.
C

Gordon
0G 0A -1 1SOG 1hit 50%FO
I know he one of those character guys, but he hasnt done anything of note, nothing. 1 hit in 3 games? Zero penalties? Someone check his pulse.
D

Fleischmann
0G 0A -2 1SOG 2hits 1TA
Everybody's whipping boy. His -2 came in the first game that we won. As ineffective as anybody on the team, even Ovechkin thus far.
D-

Brashear
1G 1A +2 4hits
Has played a good 3 games as a 4th liner if your name isnt Brashear. He hasnt even mixed it up, mashed a face or anything instigative. I gotta believe by orders from upper management. Take the kid gloves off of him.
B-

Steckel
1G 1A -1 3SOG 4TA 1GA 43%FO
Has played well, decent on the PK. Maybe the finger isnt 100%, hence his below 50% on faceoffs, his specialty.
B-

Bradley
0G 2A -1 11hits
4th line is holding its own, however 7 hits in the first game, win, 4 total in the next 2, both losses. Start hitting.
C+

Fehr
1G 0A +2
Looked good in game 3. So good, I would move him to the 3rd line and move Bradley to the 4th.
B+

Green
3G 1A -1 10SOG 13PIMs 7 hits
Two good games sandwiching an awful one. The most dangerous Capital by far. Defense has been ok, not great, but offensively where would we be without him?
B

Morrisonn
0G 1A +/-0 4hits 2TA 2GA
Has played poorly. His positioning has been questionable. Bad passing. Pretty shaky thus far. Where's the grit?
D-

Poti
0G 1A -1 3SOG 2hits 4GA
Pretty much useless. Not hitting anyone, giving up the puck. Not clearing out of the crease. Does anyone think he is not 100%?
D-

Jurcina
0G 0A +1 9hits 5GA
Monumental blunder in game 3 that cost us dearly. Has done mediocre job other than that.
D

Erskine
0G 1A -1 5hits 3GA
Can't make an outlet pass, got out of position on Briere's 4th goal in the series. Pretty much useless.
D-

Schultz
0G 0A -2 0hits 3GA
The worst display of hockey from any defenseman from any team, that includes Modry. Should not have been out there due to his injury.
F-

Eminger
0G 0A -1
Lets see what he can do.
C-

Huet
11GA .884sv%
This is the most difficult grade to give, we could be 2-1 in this series if the defense doesnt sh!t the bed. Too many GA's in our own zone giving Huet little chance to get comfortable. Shouldve been able to stop a couple of shots but not all of them, bottomline, he needs to play better.
C-

Upper Management
1 W vs 2 L
Boudreau is trying to make this Capitals team something that it either can't do or is very bad at doing it. The Flyers arent going to be intimidated by us, there is nothing we can do to change that. Crashing the net, creating chances off of turnovers, any monkey can see that is one of our issues. So, what now? A line change? I don't know, from where I'm sitting it looks like Stevens is doing a better job of effecting the overall play. Briere has 4 goals? Why havent we stopped him?
D

I'm still hoping and believing that the Caps will win this series. But I think BB has been thoroughly outcoached so far. It reminds you that as great of a job as BB has done this, he's very much a rookie, too. So it's good to see a shake-up, any shake-up. It will be interesting to see how the Russians do, but I'd still like to see a more physical presence on OV's line to help him get some more space (but not Brash.. preferrably somebody who can skate).

I think one of Olie's main problems all year has been dealing with people in his crease and loose pucks in front. Why do we think he'll make a difference when that's how this team is scoring against us?

Don't stop believing !

We need to add toughness to the 1st line, not more skill. Yes, Feds can win faceoffs and is responsible on D, but OV is getting beat up out there. OV does hit back, but we can't have their guys get a free run at him every shift. Skate him with Cooke or Brads or even Laich for a little bit so if anyone gets near him, they'll be sorry by the end of the shift. Boy, we could really use Clark for this series...

But I think BB has been thoroughly outcoached so far. It reminds you that as great of a job as BB has done this, he's very much a rookie, too.

Obviously he is learning. It's not AHL. I have no doubt he is a great Coach. The question remains, how fast can he learn from mistakes? If Caps will win game 4, which I believe will happen, it's fast enough.

Now is the time we could really use Pothier and Nylander to mix things up, and push some Flyers around...

Giving up odd-man rushes like candy on Yo-mama-ween and not clearing the traffic in front of your keeper are the problems.

Posted by: Hector Camacho | April 16, 2008 12:48 PM

and don't forget the Caps inability to get traffic...any traffic in front of Biron.

Okay agree with a lot, but not all! Huet has been hung out to dry, but he has not been tough either - his stick side is weak and he is small - Give Olie a chance to come up big then go back with Huet - (2 losses in a row - hmmm - I would change something).
-No Laing is not the answer but it's a far cry from getting pushed off the puck and pucks getting to the net - (33 shots vs. 19 shots).
-Kozlov has totally dropped the ball and become insignificant for the playoffs - won't need him next year.
-Cooke has been invisible the last 2 games - what happened to his big hits!
-Jurcina has just sucked totally - I even could have made a better pass than that crapola last night - he should be embarrassed to be such a big guy and play like an AHLer and wimp to boot..No excuse period for that type of play - no pass from me and I usually give the benefit over doubt.
-Erskine just needs to focus on playing his game and worry about Erskine!!!
-Ovie needs to get back to what he does best and stop worrying about the hits!
-Backstrom is just not ready for the playoffs - too young - and my gosh do we have to teach him how to shoot the puck again - he totally annoys me with holding onto it toooooo long - every time - every shift - Urghhhhhhhhhh.
-Green thinks he is better than he is, but at least he doesn't look scared!
-FEDOROV HAS BEEN THE BEST PLAYER EVERY NIGHT!
-Semin is at least dishing out some good hits and creating chances - very surprising - NOW FINISH THEM!
-Our 3rd and 4th lines deserve more ice time - they are creating the turnovers and making good decisions every shift! Reward the positives in our line-up!
-Lepisto scares me, but how much worse can he be than Jurcina was last night - try anything.
-I think Fehr did a good job, he didn't hurt us in particular any worse than the unseen Kozlov?????
Okay thanks for letting me vent, I can make it through the day now...
And after all of that, I still believe we can win this Series. I must be a true CAPS fan - def. much better than a Philly fan on any given day - they are just impossible to deal with and always have been and always will be - they are a disgrace to all who love any sport!

@smartan
Why all this huet's never been any good in the playoffs? where does this come from? He played 6 games vs the eventual cup winner Carolina w/ 2.3gaa, won 2 lost 4 with a team that wasnt that good and didnt score a lot. not trying to single you out, but I just dont know where this huet is not a playoff goalie is coming from esp when its so clear getting out of our end and allowing multiple odd man rushes, stretch passes is a problem.

Ovechkin Fedorov Semin
Cooke Backstrom Kozlov
Fehr Laich Clark
Bradley Steckel Brashear

Swap Gordo For Clark if Clark Stays hurt

but OV is getting beat up out there

Sorry I haven't seen a single epizode of that. You simply can't beat Ovechkin physically and Flyers were smart to realize that. Instead they put European Kimmo Therapy and it has been very effective so far. If you are going physical vs. Ovechkin, you're waking up a giant.

Fedorov, on teh other hand, was quite physical yesterday. If he could handle Legion of Doom back then, he can handle 5'9" Richards or Kimmo Therapy.

Jschon, your tough!! phew hate to be one of ur students..any curve?

Nice work JSchon. I think that pretty much caps this discussion. I could argue for a plus here or minus there, rarely a letter grade, so screw it. I concur and with that am going to try to get something done today. This blog is taking me down.

Go Caps.

If I were BB I would scratch Kozlov and Backstrom for game four and bring in Laing and Flash

The regular season rebuild is over ?
How many years for the post season rebuild ?

Easy fix to our problems. Up the physical play to their level, and for god's sake when one of their dudes starts messing with Huet, they need to be hit out of their skates.

Excellent assessment by JSchon.

Management/Boudreaux made a huge tactical mistake when they inserted Erskine/Shultz in favor of Eminger.

They went with brawn over mobility, and paid dearly on the Umberger and Briere goals. On both, either Erskine or Shultz were exposed (slow feet).

Another reason we're going to lose this series, the Caps are simply too green. Philly brought playoff hockey and the Caps, unaccustomed, don't know how to respond.

I'm happy with Bradley and Semin. Semin especially. I didn't realize he had this much heart.

Where's Ovie's?

Hey Chief, I hear Pittsburgh is doing pretty well this year. Why don't you go complain about them and leave us alone until next season.

put McPhee behind the bench

@JSchon - nice job as always - Dang I'm frustrated - how do we get better after all of this? Now I'm starting to believe we get rid of Kozie and keep Feds, hope Nylander can go the entire season and hope the "D" get stout - keep Clark and move some "D" and see what the youngsters can do. Man, our "Defense absolutely sucks". Can't believe these are the same guys that won 7 in a row to finish the season. Is it intimidation or are the last 3 games the worst of the season???

@Tarik

If someone messes with Huet in the next game...Just pop a Philly writer right in the face...We got to send a message somehow.

Don't blame goaltending (even pre Huet).
Don't blame offense.

Blame defense.
For the sheep out there giving Midget McFee props, how about now realizing that he's a LOSER manager.

I'm not reading it all...but I'll toss these in there.

1. The penalty shot last night. I was surprised it was called, BUT IF HE CALLS A SIMPLE PENALTY, THE GAME IS OVER! Caps were down 1 at the time and putting Philly on the PP for the last 3 min of the game = Game over. The ref did us a FAVOR. Stop complaining about the call.

2. While we do need some help 5-5, and I don't mind this move, where this team REALLY needs help is PP. I've now see 1 game from each of the Playoff matchups and we are the ONLY team in the playoffs that does not have a PP unit that plants a man infront of the crease.

Our defense was horrible last night. I typically stick up for Erskine and Juice, but there is absolutely NOTHING I can say good about them last night. Erskine cleared the crease to the best of his ability, but there is only so much you can do to a guy infront of the goalie without drawing a penalty.

As for Schultz, he was out of the game after @ 2 min of ice time. To say he played bad last night is just moronic.

I am happy we can get back to R/L defensive pairings tonight. Poti/Juice, Mo/Green, 4/44. Putting guys on their natural side makes them instantly better.

Think Kolzig deserves a start. Christosmall is too little. The officials give him no respect.

You know, while Olie has let in some softies and yes his movements aren't as fast or sharp as they used to be, the reasons he was scored on a good bit are the exact same as the reasons Huet is being scored on. POOR DEFENSE. So this is NOT a new problem. And it was one I was hoping would be addressed at the trade deadline, but hey, at least we got what we DID get. But I seriously think we should have tried for another Defenseman. Someone much more stay at home.

Yes Jurcina screwed up, no doubt. But he has the package to be there, he just needs a smack in the face to wake the f up.

Backstrom will appreciate the demotion, he's no diva. How old is he? Playing against a top, experienced agitator line? In a hostile arena in his first playoffs?

I'll laich watching Laich this next game. Backstrom and Semin both play intricate games, it will be fun to see how they all fit together (fun can have many meanings).

My choice for the checking line would be Konowalchuk-Halpern-Dahlen.

We could use Reekie and Tinordi about now too.

@GoUnited

Flash? That kid needs to ride the pine for the whole series. He's the easiest one to knock off the puck. Laing Plays with heart and is good on the PK, but he doesn't provide any offense. The team needs less finesse and more grit on all the lines. I like Fedorov on the first line, and maybe Laich there as well, because he's the only one so far who's really made an effort to provide screens.

WOW - Jschon has a lot of time on his hands now that he is not coaching.

Has a european captain led his team to a Stanley Cup championship yet ?

@ffs enough

Agree with you on the penalty shot. I was actually thankful that it was called, because we would have had no chance if we were man down for 2 minutes. Had Huet saved it (and he saves penalty shots 72% of the time), would have increased our momentum even more, and we would have been in good shape for the final 3 minutes. Didn't work out, but it was still the best scenario.

@Hew

I'm not coaching? Coaching what? I'm confused.

In response to why Ovie's been ineffective. The flyers knew and stated PUBLICALLY that to beat Ovie, you don't play physical with him, you play physical with those around him. They have done that PERFECTLY and gotten Backstrom demoted.

Am I alone in wanting to see Ovie/STECKEL/BRASHEAR as the top line vs Phi? Our checking line is creating so many chances in the offensive zone, if they can just get some of those to Ovie it's over. 10 Goal game.

MRo: Nah -- I'll take Kono & Ulf but I'm still mad at Halpern.

Chief

Clark is a European?

The simple fact that Clark has been out all year and STILL WEARS THE C is proof at how important the team feels he is, and HOW MUCH WE NEED HIS TOUGHNESS right now.

If he's 80%, we need him, if just for 1 game to stand infront of the crease on PP and be a target for Ovie. COVER YOUR EARS, CHRIS! IT'S RAINING RUBBAH!

Why not put me in goal. Huet has just not looked that good this series.

(repost)

Ok back!
@metalCAp and KingHuet
haha please don't remind me of Advanced placement from Highschool... haha by AP i meant Accounting Principals sorry about that.
I think I bombed the test anyway. I'm gonna finish that class with barely a C... I hate accounting and I hate my Prof even more.
Back to hockey though... I don't know why everyone is counting the caps out. Playoffs are all about response when your backs to the wall. Even tho the caps got out played in game 2 their backs were hardly to the wall being tied 1-1. Now it's 2-1 and theres a little more pressure let's see how they respond.
Hopefully they actually make some adjustments rather then talk about doing it. Hopefully BB doesn't become the the backfall to Caps fans and actually impliments some type of order to that team.

@smartan,

"HUET has never been good in the postseason. Its showing"

You're basing that statement on what? The one other time he went to the post season in the NHL? You phrase it like he's bombed in the playoffs for the last 5 years & he went once aside from this year (with a 2-4 record 2.33 GAA and .929 sv %)

@MRo - Please Reekie, he can't even skate with these guys today, he got walked around his last 3 years in the NHL - Tinordi Yes only because he didn't need to skate after he finished his check - basically the guy was broken, Reekie NO WAY!!! I did not like the guy at all - very over rated in my opinion! Maybe Cote / Callie Yo' - at least they provided checking and skating ability.
NO REEKIE - NO WAY - NO HOW

As of now, I think, for the health of my heart and mind, I am going to be taking my leave of this board. Atleast till the offseason.

I need to start to feel more positive about this team and I can't do that reading these posts.

It's the playoffs. They are tough, and they are LONG. Until you've lost 4, you are still alive. And the 'anything you can do, I can do better...' applies to any team, ESPECIALLY one with Ovie on the club.

Here's to a blowout in our favor on Thurs...Sparked by the return of the General, #17.

Everyone needs to leave Huet alone... From what I've seen he's the only cap aside from Ferorov and dare I say Brash that is implimenting any type of effectiveness against the flyers so far... I would include Semin in the group but that kid sure likes to play post eh?
Putting Ollie in as i said before would be a horrible move at this point and send the complete wrong message to this club. Ollie hasn't seen the prime time in monthes and throwing him into the fire could have some big reprecussions. Especially because Huet is making at least 8 phenominal saves a game at this point. Flyers are throwing everything but the kitchen sink at Huet and his Defense is just leaving him out to Dry. I'm a big Ollie fan don't get me wrong, it's just not the correct solution. Especially for this young caps line up

Haven't had much time to read or reply, but I see that there's all this doom and gloom here. We're just down 1-2. There's no need to panic just yet. Despite playing some of our worst hockey in the past few months we were in both of the last two games until the very end.

One thing I was thinking about after last night's game and while watching playoff games was... do any of you remember many shots on the Flyers goal that were tipped by someone in front? I sure don't. Stick Brashear in there on the PP if you have to! He's shown some very good hands. Great assist yesterday.

Eminger for Schultz helps us. I think Emi has played very well, but just has a label of being a spare part.

I'm almost certain Clark is a great guy, but I never thought of him as Captain material. He's a great guy, hard working and all, but Captain ? NO.

Clark was named Captain at the most inopportune time, he has yet to recover from the added BS that goes with it. I wish him well.

@uncatim

Ok, no Halpern, then bring in Dale Hunter. Even better. Kono-Hunter-Dahlen.

At least Halpie helped out with the GW against Carolina down the stretch.

@FFS Enough
I aggree I think some of the fans on here are already folding. Come On caps fans wake up and realize you've only lost 2 games. The caps are only down by 1 game with an important game 4 being played tomorrow. So you lost game 2 and 3. Big deal the playoffs are all about how you respond when your backs to the wall and as i said above *points up* being tied 1-1 is hardly playing with your backs to the wall... 2-1 theres a little more urgency and pressure there. Let's see how they respond before everyone starts giving up on this series.

With all due respect to Nick, how about we demote Journey?

How about instead of Dont Stop Believin the guys grab hold of something a little harder charging, a little more forceful? How about AC/DC, Vollmer, Metallica, etc?

Of course I still think it would be funny to see Semin groovin to Gonna Make You Sweat or Sexy Back. (Just kidding - kind of).

Sorry, I know that is not exactly hockey talk. But at this point I am tired of trying to play coach, GM, motivator, etc.

@MRo

Haha. I was just about to mention Dale Hunter. We could really use a guy like him.

@Kim
I think Abba's Dancing Queen with Semin skating around on the ice would get a chuckle out of me... Not that I'm making fun of Semin, just for some reason that image makes me laugh... nor am I making fun of ABBA... well no actually I am sorry, but all their songs make me laugh

@Greenie
Fair enough, Reekie was extra slow at the end. But for years IMO he was a solid in the back - not particularly accident prone and took care of crease crashers.

We could use his quality in this series. I like our youth long term, but we could use a Reekie round here to break in some of these kids imo.

Tarik, it's been a really long second....

Kim: Janis Joplin's Try! (Just a little bit harder)

Just got word that Kimmon Timmonen is fine and will be playing in Game 4... I know you're all probably hating me for that update, I'm just not a big fan of talented players getting hurt in the playoffs... I almost pissed myself when AO was on the ice for sometime... I was pretty nervous that he tweaked a groin.

Also Either way which ever team comes out of this series I would love to see them kill the team they play next. I mean I know caps fans must hate the flyers at this point, but honestly Hockey is all about trial by association. If the Caps beat the flyers I wanna See the caps beat the crap out of the pens in the next round... That would make my year. I'm curious as to whether caps fans would cheer the flyers on to beat the every so annoying HABS... I mean you have to admit their fans are by far more annoying then flyers fans. Most of them would spit on the idea of their team even being compared to the likes of NHL teams... I hate the whole arrogance behind that Montreal franchise... but eh I guess when you dominate for as long as they did you've earned the right to act like that.

I'd like to point out (again) that Jeff still says Fedorov and Huet(?) are the top Caps in the playoffs and that GMGM is responsible for getting the team to win, not BB.

Huet goes down and closes his eyes this series hoping the Flyers don't shoot over his shoulders. I can do that.

Huet isn't losing the games but if he's going to use that "technique" all series Olie is bigger.

My own changes would be: Scratch Erskine Poti and Jurcina. Insert Eminger Boumedienne and Lepisto. Scratch Fehr and Flash, insert Lainger. Let Kolzig play. Huet hasn't been awful... but hes been far from playoff calibur.

@Jeff,

Actually, not making fun of Semin either. Truth is I really like the dude. Earlier in the season there were quite a few who held the opinion that he was this stiff, non-team liking, lazy, whatever. I think that he has shown that he does like it here, that he does like this team, and I think that underneath that outwardly shy demeanor is this wickedly funny guy. Just something about him. I keep waiting for him to do something that surprises everyone and shows what a riot he really is.

Oh, and anyone else think maybe he needs glasses or something? How many times this year (not just the playoffs) has he shot wide or high? Just saying. Then again, I think the shot to Biron's head was on target yesterday.:)

A few observations:

It is way too early to give up - if the Caps were up 2-1, would we be thinking we had the series in the bag? NO!

No way would I go with Kolzig now. It has been too long since he has played in a meaningful game. We have to ride Huet now to the end, for better or worse. Huet has not played that bad, as most of the goals he has not had much of a chance on due to the poor D. However, here have been a couple where a timely great save might have made the difference...

Letting Philly run over Huet has to stop, even if it costs us a 5 minute major and a game misconduct. The next time a Flyer does that (when not pushed by a Cap), he should get mauled immediately. They have to send the message that it will no longer be tolerated.

Don't give up on Ovie...

I know it's been said, but what bothers me the most, more than the lack of scoring by our stars, it the lack of HEART that has been shown. Nobody has defended out goalie. Nobody has defended anyone who has been mugged by the thugs in philly. WHen Brash was resigned, everyone made the argument that he was necessary to keep teams off of Ovie. It's time to earn his paycheck.

On a serious note, how I am feeling right now about this team reminds me of a sports quote I like.

"Sports do not build character they reveal it."

I think we are going to see a lot about the character of this team on Thursday.

@ Icebat
I didn't say best... I said most effective. I'd include Green, but he's had so many mental lapses and blown coverages on D that the goals he's scored for the caps have been almost a wash in my mind. that being said the kid has one hell of an upside tho... 22 now thats a blue chipper.
Semin would be included as well if it weren't for the fact that it seems like he's playing "posts"... Brash and Fehr caused some havoc last game and might be on to something be establishing the puck down low behind the net.
As for Huet he's a butterfly goalie. He's going to go down like that. He's had some goals that I'm sure in his mind he'd want back, but honestly you can't fault him at all for those goals... It seems like on every shot the flyers have a player with thier butt right in his face... wheres the defensive responsibility? Ollie is a good goalie and a great competitor. I'm not about to make a prediction as to what would happen if he were in net cause no one knows. I think while it might temporarily get rid of some of the problems the caps are having right now, I'm skeptical as to whether it would fix the big problems the caps are facing... and those problems aren't coming from the goalie

@Jschon,

Agree largely with O ratings, D ratings not so much. IMHO: Erskine D, Mo C-, Jurcina F, Poti C, Green C, Shultz, F (D if you grade on a curve for being hurt)

Jurcina has been damn near useless. Erskine is playing the best he can, which isn't saying much. Shultz was bad, but I blame the injury. He doesn't look like himself. The rest have been merely inconsistent, not downright awful, although Mo is in danger of entering awful land.

Remember Mo is playing hurt, too.

Iron Maiden The Trooper

@ Leeguru
True Brash was brought to Washington to play the protector role, but in the playoffs you really can't go running around "protecting" alex. Alex has to fend for himself and personally I don't really enjoy watching the way he's responding. He gets mad and frusterated and he appears to be on cruise control just waiting for that big retaliation hit on Richards. Ovie needs to hurt the flyers by playing more aggressive to the net and turning that switch he has to the on position.
I think all of that goes for the rest of the caps too. They are getting beat up by a smaller flyers team. The caps are bigger then the flyers and are capeable of throwing some hits too... it's just the choices of when to throw a hit that I find confusing about this caps team. Anyone else catch that odd man rush that lead to a flyers powerplay late due to 2 seperate caps trying to take big runs at flyers. Flyers are playing smart physical hockey and picking and choosing when to go out of their way to hit
I think the Caps should try forechecking a bit harder as well. This is not a very Mobile blue line for the flyers and have had problems both in this series and other games against teams that play high pressure.
All that being said I have yet to feel a real consistent urgency from the caps. They have moments where they seem desperate and those moments they establish pressure, but it doesn't last long. Not sure if it's nerves, Fatiguem, or what it is. Personally I think there will be a different caps team on the ice tomorrow

Leeguru: I think, as someone else mentioned in an earlier post, that Brashear is being held back by management. If that is the case, I don't believe it is working -- he has to be allowed to play his role. I just can't believe that he is unwilling to defend his teammates, especially Huet.

@Tarik

If someone messes with Huet in the next game...Just pop a Philly writer right in the face...We got to send a message somehow

Exactly. They have more writers in Philly than entire WP and WT combined though. But if it won't work we should send GMGM to pop Bobby Clarke.

Bobby Clarke: Ouch, that hurts! Hey, I am not GM anymore.

GMGM: If you were GM, I'd kill ya.

Jeff, you're reasonably hockey-knowledgeable yes?
There's a term, 'going down early'

Now depending on the girl, well, maybe that's not so bad. In hockey though it tends to be considered a bad thing.

Huet's level of play has unquestionably dropped in the playoffs. A goalie's job is to stop shots. He still stops most of them. So is that your definition of effective?

We've all seen some stats on his play on Tarik's blog. I haven't seen where he ranks in playoff goaltending, yet.

He's not the problem. But to single him out as a notable this series?

I'm glad BB took my suggestion in the previous blog:

"Very frustrating so far.

I am not a Kolzig apologist, but since the NHL now apparently allows tackling the goalie, it's time to put the bigger goalie with a temper back in net. Let Kolzig give Briere and Hartnell a few whacks to the back of the legs with the big stick. Make the change for game 4. Game 5 is too late.
Also start tackling Biron since it's now legal.

Briere should have gotten 6 minutes for running Huet on one play last night -- 2 for goalie interference, 2 for unsportsmanlike conduct for shoving Huet's stick farther away, and 2 for roughing for hitting Huet in the back of his head as Briere skated away.

Why none of the Caps has planted Briere permanently into the boards is beyond me.

Backstrom is playing even younger than he is. [b]I would put Fedorov on the first line in his place.[/b]

The Caps as a whole need to start hitting hard every chance they get.

I know the Hart trophy is for the regular season, but if Ovie doesn't start being the Great 8, I believe some voters will hold it against him.

Let's go Caps!!! Win Thursday and you have home ice advantage again!

Jeff,

First, don't go using big college words on me! (Fatiguem sounds like some sort of fluid build up. And yes, I know it was a typo!)

Second, Ovie CAN take care of himself. But Brash's primary role is as a team enforcer. And we have several on the team, and not one is stepping forward to due what is necessary (ie KILLING that midget Briere).

Personally, I would like to see Kolzig in net. I think this would really send a message to the team that they've played like absolute crap. I also wouldn't mind seeing Laing somewhere in the lineup (I know the knock on him, he's small but hell I think he'd help with the PK which they torched us on) with Erskine out and Feds on D. I just think that Erskine is just to slow and Feds would be a huge upgrade in that department as well as the breakout.

I think Tarik and Corey are sending the message to Phillies beat writers. Which beat writers team will beat up another one?

More in a sec.

A 2 goal lead will embolden even a twerp like Briere to do his candy ass goalie agitation. How many 2 goal leads have the Caps allowed this series? Oh yeah - a lot.

I still believe this team is too good and has come too far to think that, EVENTUALLY (Game 4, I hope):
- some PP goals go in
- Hartnell, Richards and Briere will not get a free pass in front of Huet anymore
- Biron will get to know Laich, Fehr, Brash (and anyone else with the stones to get slashed in front of him) a whole lot better
- Huet gets out of the 1st period with no goals allowed

A win in Philly on Thursday gets us back to DC all knotted up. It's do or die and I love it. Beats watching the f'ing Masters.

Leeguru: It is the lack of punishment dealt by Bradley and others as well as Brashear that makes me think it is a directive from somewhere above. You are right, why have an enforcer and not use him, especially in the playoffs.

@ Icebat
Those are all very valid points... Love the going down early analogy that made me laugh haha. But I truley believe Huet's going down early is a direct result of poor Team Defense. Other then that Briere Goalie over his shoulder yesterday Huet can't be faulted for any of those other goals (not to mention that Briere shot was quite the cookie finder though eh?)
I'm not going to sit here and say I think Huet is better then Ollie... Actually when you guys aquired him I was questionable as to why the caps thought they needed him other then the fact that Ollie's getting Old... but i think you guys got the wrong goalie if you plan on resigning him. Huet thinks pretty highly of himself and thats why he was chased out of Montreal by Gainey (that and the next Ken Dryden seems to be playing up there)
However, I think Huet has played quite stellar so far and his sub par stats and spoty mediocre play is a direct result to poor team defensive play

@JSchon
thought you id-name was aply on words - Jim Schonfeld - so just making a bad joke!

With an emphasis on getting more traffic in front of the net, he's got Sergei Fedorov and Mike Green playing the point, Alex Ovechkin in the slot, Brooks Laich in front of the net and Nicklas Backstrom on the wing. That means Alexander Semin has been moved to the second...

I was preaching for that since forever. BB heard me. :)

Uncatim, I agree. I think it was BB and the coaches saying not to take any stooppid penalties. well, we need some stoopid-messages-sending-penalties-now!

whoops -" a play on"

@Leeguru
hahahahaha quickly someone urban "dictionize" that....Fatiguem more often then not eh?

At this point, a hit (legal or not) against someone in orange can't be considered stupid.

@old time hockey

You're too kind to our giveaway unit, I mean defensive unit.

Me and Corey ain't scared of them Philly writers, even if we're outnumbered 100 to 2.

Hit anything in orange!

Punch an NBC broadcaster for me while you're at it.

Tarik - could you spread some of that confidence and attitude to the team?

I should've gotten it Hew.

It did confuse me because I have coached baseball and basketball. (Not on any level worth noting)

just trying to lighten the mood - Lord knows, I'm depressed today.

What do you know, after 8 hours of sleep and one boring philosophy lecture later, I'm a Caps fan again!!! Today is a new day Caps fans. Tomorrow is a new game!

Here's to fervor from our Defense and PP and eloquence from our 5-5 and our goalie!!

Let's go Caps!!!!!

@Tarik
hahaha I've seen majority of the flyers writers and met some of them... They aren't what you call "outdoor kids" they are definatly the "indoor kids" type so I'm sure you guys can hold your own...

On a serious note... I'm very impressed with this sites blog and hockey write ups so far. I really enjoy reading what you guys have to write about and all of you seem like you're petty talented Article and Hockey writers... I love that mike Wise article today... I sent that one to almost everyone I know. But comeing from a flyers fan keep up the good work... I'm really having fun on here

Jeff, I need to take care of some things but here's my last on the subject for now:

1. If GMGM is responsible for the Caps making the playoffs and not BB, then GMGM is also responsible for the Caps performance in the playoffs. (Both statements? Ridiculous)

2.Maybe we would agree with you that Huet's play has been "spectacular" despite the D if the Flyers weren't scoring so much.

But alas, I'm no GMGM, what do I know...

http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/flyers/20080416_Flyers__Briere_push_Capitals_goalie_Huet_around.html

oh, and did anyone find out anything about what Kim(?) suggested? I might even skip class Friday morning to make it to DC if it means boosting morale.

Oh, and Dave is right about the a*hole chant. It's offensive, but happens all the time. JMU fans (and our marching band) have gotten in trouble in the past for chanting obscenities.

Let's go Caps!!

I like the way Boudreau set up the Power Play lines like that today. It sounds like it would be more effective that way.

I would like to know what the real lines for tomorrow will be, considering Boudreau said they were merely experimenting today, to see if they find something they like.

Caps need to put Richards, Umberger and Briere on their @$$ like this :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3Gvfr9GUC0

Go Caps!

@IceBat
I'm not saying GMGM is a god or anything... but he did put togeather the team you guys have right now and from what i see there's a lot of potential and a good mix of veteran and youth talent... BB has to get his players to respond the correct way. I've made my views clear on what I think is wrong with BB's methods... I think if the caps continue to play like this it would over shadow that great run they had, but i guess that's the nature of sports. I still question the caps scouting on the flyers and their inability to fix their flaws, or at least make it seem like they attempted too.
As for Huet again I don't know maybe I'm wrong... it wouldn't be the first time. I just call it like I see it and I see the flyers putting up 31 + shots a game and thats not even telling the whole picture cause most of those shots are either coming from screens, one timers, and right in front of him. I mean the turnovers in the Defensive zone... not even Rob Louy could bail out all of those turn overs

Anybody else tired of Jeff?

@Jim

http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/flyers/20080416_Flyers__Briere_push_Capitals_goalie_Huet_around.html

That last comment made by BB is just the reason why I question his methods... "Maybe we're learning as a young team what it's going to take to beat these guys. Hopefully, we're learning very quickly." That's stuff fans say... not a coach

@Jim

Nice catch.

Sorry guys, but if Flyers get consistently close to Huet again I'm going to jump off the BB wagon.

@ Harry,
He's not being a troll. Leave him alone. Just because he happens to bleed orange and black doesn't mean he's not capable of talking hockey.

Finally! Ovie is in the slot instead of on the point! What took so long??

@Jill
I like that move of Ovie to the slot. It creates another headache for the flyers to had to adjust too... However if they keep trying to set that player up in the box for a shot their powerplay will continue to struggle I think. I really wish the Cap's would try "expierimenting" with the Umbrella Look and stick that Wicked Slapper of Greens up at the top and then move Ovie down to the net/behind the net... I think they would get better results that way
They only flaw with that system idea is that the flyers have a very potent counter attack and as very dangerous on the PK, Leaving Green Up high by himself might cost them... Maybe try that stud you guys have in Morrison

Harry-Jeff's okay.....He's being civil and he's made some good points. Philly fans I believe get into a "zone" when they are at the arena or stadium. Heck, didn't Ed Rendell throw some snowballs in the Bounty Bowl? But they're good fans and good people. WHEN THEY ARE NOT IN THE ARENA!!!!!

I just wonder whether Ovechkin is going to be the screen or whether they're going to try to work the puck towards him. I don't particularly want to see Ovechkin get in the way of shots, tough-as-nails or not.

I think Huet should stop worrying about and embelishing the contact and worry instead about stopping the puck.

Our D should smear Briere into tomorrow. Too bad Witt left town.

On the bright side, if the Caps can steal one tommorow, it's then an even best-of-three series, which is pretty good given how bad they've been outplayed.

More brightness...this is all gravy experience for this young team. Who really expected them to be here anyway?

Only one team wins the Stanley Cup.

Schultz said he doesn't expect to play tomorrow and is having trouble with everyday things like getting dressed

But, he has no problem getting undressed, especially when playing with Erskine.

[rimshot]

@old time hockey
hahahahahahahahahahahaha nice
I still think Jurcina has been the one stinking up the ice... he played below average on friday, horrible on sunday, and somehow he managed to play even worse on tuesday... How long will it take BB until they A) scratch him to send a message
or B) scratch him for the sake of winning.
You can't allow weak links especially in the playoffs. I hope none of us have to watch him tomorrow.
I have a quick question is there another Dmen the caps can dress in place of Jurcina? cause thats the only excuse I'd give BB is if there is no one else to "go"

eminger, but he'll play for schultz. there are some guys down in hershey, lepisto and boomer

Even though Jeff is with the dark side, he's more fun to talk about the Caps with than Chief.

I'm just sayin'.

@Steve R
I'm unfamiliar with Chief... but i'm pretty sure that comment you just made put me up at public enemy # 1 to him hahaha

@JMU
Right now I'd call anyone up to replace Jurcina. I don't like singling out players, but he honestly doesn't belong in this series for you guys

How much orange and black does he bleed? It sounds more like blue, red, white, orange and black which mixed together sounds like something that might come out of Thoresen's nuts.

And why can't he go talk hockey with the rest of his ilk. He's trashin' our team, our coach, our water boy all in the name of "talking hockey". Unlike some of our more passive comrades on the ice I'm going to cross check him in the ribs if comes in front of the net.

Me and Capitals need play with more ST