tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-342268252011-04-22T01:27:55.252-04:00A forum for all things Washington Capitals - the Good, the Bad, and the Ovie!CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.comBlogger8331100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-63452126403604270192008-06-10T05:51:00.001-04:002008-06-10T05:55:48.651-04:00

The Cheap Seats are moving to swankier digs!A View from the Cheap SeatsThis site will remain up for the foreseeable future but will no longer be updated after today, so please adjust your bookmarks and site readers as necessary.Special thanks to friend of the Cheap Seats, Geneen for all her help and support in making the jump.

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-75031535486151062462008-06-05T22:23:00.006-04:002008-06-06T16:46:36.886-04:00

If you watched last night's Cup-clinching win by the Red Wings or saw any of the highlights you probably noticed that Detroit's third goal was a little...odd - going from the stick of Zetterberg, through a maze of players in front of Fleury, and landing between his pads.Then he sat on it, propelling the frozen rubber disk over the goal line.It would be a painful goal at any time but you almost

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-74854683917755957752008-06-04T23:18:00.007-04:002008-06-04T23:37:57.338-04:00

Congratulations to the 2008 Stanley Cup Champions,the Detroit Red Wings!Certainly a thrilling end to a thrilling 2007-08 NHL season....is it September yet?

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-54509359756636185372008-06-04T16:07:00.002-04:002008-06-04T16:14:14.186-04:00

More good news on the prospect front - the Caps have signed 2006 draft pick Oskar Osala to an entry-level two-way deal, beating the deadline to sign picks from that year by a little more than a week. Osala is a physical left-winger who played two years in the OHL before returning to his native Finland last year to play for Espoo of SM-liga, where he was named the rookie of the year.If you read

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-11498880321584553382008-06-04T01:08:00.002-04:002008-06-04T01:50:37.013-04:00

Ten years ago today, Joe Juneau sent the Caps somewhere they'd never been before - the Stanley Cup Finals. Do you remember where you were?

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-1613098991279739932008-06-03T15:40:00.004-04:002008-06-03T17:38:20.675-04:00

It's time for the NHL to take a serious look at the officiating.Forget about tweaking the rules or playing with the goalie pads to make them 1/184th of an inch smaller or deciding what undeserving location gets an outdoor game. After the Cup is handed out this week there should be only one topic of discussion for the rest of the summer, and that is the state of the penalty call in today's

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-9187583504492927232008-06-01T14:13:00.010-04:002008-06-01T15:09:44.485-04:00

It's impossible to go to a hockey game at any level these days and not find yourself bombarded with music, strange sounds, flashing lights, stupid audience participation games and feeble attempts at getting the crowd to cheer. It is, as some have mentioned in the past, the death of the pure hockey experience. The mantra of NHL arenas these days seems to be "keep them stimulated at all times", and

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-79860539327103945022008-05-31T00:25:00.000-04:002008-05-31T00:29:56.803-04:00

Ah, the Caps defense - a ragtag bunch of guys who ranged from the magnificent to the mediocre (said with love, of course). How did they fare this year?Steve Eminger - Poor Emmy. He was so frustrated this year as he found himself inexplicably exiled to the press box night after night, even after a coaching and systems change that seemed perfectly suited to his style of play. When he did manage to

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-65010467013661664462008-05-29T16:13:00.001-04:002008-05-29T18:19:58.553-04:00

Completing our look at the forwards...Viktor Kozlov - Kozlov took a lot of heat from Caps fans throughout the season for what was seen by some as a lack of production. But as easy as it is to dismiss someone who only had three goals by January 1, it's important to look at the whole picture. What he lacked in goal-scoring he gained in his ability to provide a solid linemate for Ovechkin - like

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-38180175210765630412008-05-27T16:21:00.005-04:002008-05-27T16:45:48.412-04:00

First and foremost, that "Yippee!" sound you just heard was the collective cry of joy of Matt Bradley fans everywhere - including yours truly. The gritty RW inked a three year, $3 million contract that will keep him in DC and avoid the whole messy becoming a UFA thing July 1.It's just another one of those great signings - keeping a key piece of the team in place, making sure the team chemistry is

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-42135310244248224682008-05-24T12:18:00.006-04:002008-05-25T16:33:56.120-04:00

Time to do what we do best as fans - judge, analyze, and at times mock our favorite players. How did they perform this year? Did they disappear in the playoffs or step up? Underachieve or exceed expectations?Up first, the forwards - Backstrom to Gordon.Nicklas Backstrom - Backstrom's journey this year may not have started with the instant spark of his teammate Alex Ovechkin; his skills were

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-52338231487105163182008-05-20T17:41:00.004-04:002008-05-20T17:44:58.828-04:00

Want a preview of what the Caps' locker room could look like in the next few years? Check out this footage from right after the Russians captured the gold, complete with bad Russian music and worse Russian singing from our very own #8.

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-5848733198455797562008-05-18T20:09:00.010-04:002008-05-18T21:33:17.010-04:00

There's been hockey aplenty this weekend, with international play colliding with NHL conference finals in an all-out battle for hockey supremacy and the attention of hockey fans everywhere.Without a doubt, though, the most exciting (and least painful, unless you're Canadian) of these games was today's World Championship gold medal game. It was the ultimate game, a clash of the titans, two

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-39493929835810117422008-05-14T20:42:00.003-04:002008-05-15T21:02:58.426-04:00

Okay, that does it. No more moping.It's been an emotional few weeks around here - the Caps are out, the Habs are out, Olie is out, and sadly Sid's playoff beard continues to be missing in action. Tough times all around.Rather than wallowing in misery and trying to pretend hockey doesn't exist right now, it's better to admit that the daily Redskins report on Washington Post Live just isn't doing

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-72165307111798752502008-05-09T18:10:00.005-04:002008-05-09T19:09:43.144-04:00

It's a sad day for Caps fans.No, it may not be unexpected or surprising. But hearing the news that Olie Kolzig is cutting ties with the organization that drafted him, whether it's for another team or retirement, makes official something that always seemed an abstract thought, a "what if", a someday...and it's sad. Heartbreaking.Sure, he's lost a step or two over the years and he's no longer a

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-20044917891717907202008-05-01T10:32:00.006-04:002008-05-01T11:12:27.200-04:00

Whew. And we're back. I'll tell you, there's nothing like a heartbreaking first round loss to the Flyers followed by a soon-to-be heartbreaking second round loss to the same damn team to almost make a girl lose her mojo, scrap it all and take up the NBA.So...how 'bout those Wizards, huh? Huh?Okay, no. I have no idea what's going on with the Wiz these days and honestly I couldn't care less,

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-51803142864306104612008-04-25T14:29:00.004-04:002008-04-25T17:13:29.278-04:00

As the second round of the playoffs gets underway and we are left watching it from our couches, we suddenly find ourselves with a wealth of time to talk about this season - what went right, what went wrong, and what we can expect next year.But we'll get to that later.Right now, though, I wanted to discuss something that is among my top five pet peeves, right behind the moron who gets up to use

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-16056954885809341202008-04-23T07:01:00.001-04:002008-04-23T07:06:48.203-04:00

As I watched Alex Ovechkin embrace each of the Flyers with the class and dignity of someone ten years older, one thought kept running through my head: They deserved better. This hurts because they deserved better, each and every one of them.It does hurt. In the aftermath of this game there will be things Caps fans can complain about, things they can point to that could and should have gone the

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-66233793298695596472008-04-23T06:57:00.003-04:002008-04-23T07:02:38.313-04:00

When you get knocked out of the playoffs in a year like this has been, it's understandable that the local papers will pay homage to the magical journey that it was, and rightly so. But when both the NHL's official website and ESPN come out with articles about how much the Caps achieved, how bright the future is, and how amazing they've been...you know you've got something good on your hands.From

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-70053102735413051392008-04-22T15:24:00.003-04:002008-04-22T16:07:20.622-04:00

Game 7 is a time for heroes, both expected and unexpected.So who is it going to be?You've got your usual suspects on both sides - your Ovechkins, your Semins...if you're pessimistic, your Brieres. But as is so often the case, it's not the big-name guys who become the story the day after a Game 7.This series has had many unsung heroes who are due for a little spotlight, and the odds are just as

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-37258408189406618282008-04-22T14:11:00.001-04:002008-04-22T14:13:05.833-04:00

How did we get here? The NHL Network has our Journey to the Cup all ready to go (although I think our journey involved playing teams outside of Canada...and poor Cris!):

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-33170339122490702702008-04-22T01:07:00.001-04:002008-04-22T05:40:22.898-04:00

Who: Caps-Flyers...the final showdownWhere: DC, home of the free and the brave, the nation's capital, and birthplace of the best fans in the NHLWhen: Tonight, 7:00 pm; Rock the Red!And so the long and winding road leads us here, to Game 7 - what seemed like the unlikeliest of places just three games ago. Where there was once a two-game deficit and an almost impossible uphill climb, there is now

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-56604086570943551152008-04-21T22:13:00.004-04:002008-04-21T22:22:00.774-04:00

No words necessary.

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-15959797023737711002008-04-21T01:11:00.003-04:002008-04-22T05:39:10.303-04:00

Who: Caps-Flyers, you know the drill...Where: Wachovia Center, home of the worst orange shirts in the worldWhen: Today, 7:00 pm. Bring your protective cups.We all know that there's no time to pat ourselves on the backs and celebrate that one win because it's just that - one win. Two more are needed to move on, or so it says in the NHL rulebook. So two more it is.And to get those two more they

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-43699294667974803002008-04-20T01:40:00.000-04:002008-04-20T03:47:59.217-04:00

In more ways than one.The Caps did what they had to do - they played hard, won Game 5 and avoided elimination. They were physical. They were well-positioned. They were opportunistic. They were, for forty minutes at least, a dominant playoff team.That's step one.Step two comes tomorrow night in Philly where an orange-clad crowd would like nothing more than to watch their boys land the knockout

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-65913384729424041972008-04-19T01:24:00.004-04:002008-04-19T04:53:30.793-04:00

Who: If you don't know this by now...get out.Where: Verizon Center - ROCK THE RED!When: Today. 1:00. Be there or be square.So it all comes down to...So this is for the whole ball of...So we're hanging on by a...So here we are. Backs against the wall, down for the count, TKO, washed up, done for, kaput - any other metaphor you can think of for being just about finished.But if there's one thing

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-73397056325636933742008-04-17T23:20:00.003-04:002008-04-18T00:32:24.851-04:00

We're not talking about this game. It was a much better effort by the Caps and there were a couple of places where the game could have gone in either direction - but it's over. Done. All eyes have to face forward, because what lies ahead is bigger than what we leave behind in Philly tonight.Caps fans, take heart.18 times in NHL history a team has rallied after being down 3-1 in a series to win

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-71768876248158761372008-04-17T14:55:00.003-04:002008-04-17T14:57:59.484-04:00

If you've had enough of the ridiculous stories that sometimes emerge here in the Cheap Seats, check out a great piece on Olie on NHL.com. There's no real purpose to it other than to spotlight the big guy and some of the behind-the-scenes action we love so much, but it's a fun read - something I'm sure we all need in these final nervous hours before puck drop.

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-89570253818293385512008-04-17T08:24:00.001-04:002008-04-17T06:08:01.410-04:00

So everyone knows about Daniel Briere's rapid rise to fame, sure. But do you know the real story? Read on...Once upon a time, in a far away land, a lonely little boy named Daniel lived on the edge of a vast and powerful kingdom. He dreamed of riches and grandeur, power and wealth beyond compare, and a silver cup with his name on it.Hours each day would be spent staring out the window just waiting

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-592041183813939982008-04-17T01:50:00.004-04:002008-04-17T02:21:27.712-04:00

Who: Caps-Flyers, Eastern Conference Quarterfinals Game 4Where: Wachovia Center, Philadelphia, PAWhen: Thursday, April 17, 7:00 pmBroadcast Info: CSN, VersusRemember all those games at the end of the regular season? Remember saying that each game was "the biggest game of the year"?Scratch that. Tonight's game has officially taken over that title.In any series game 4 is a pivotal one, and this one

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-66394429255917494472008-04-15T22:15:00.008-04:002008-04-15T23:14:08.404-04:00

I'm risking ruining my reputation as a (somewhat) level-headed, (kinda) even-keeled, unbiased (...ish) fan to make the following statement - but it needs to be said.I hate the Flyers.It's official. My unmitigated hatred for the orange and black is quickly returning to the level of contempt which at one time was only reserved for their Pennsylvania neighbors. I hate everything about them. I hate

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-86127858119179335372008-04-15T00:04:00.000-04:002008-04-15T03:32:11.435-04:00

Who: Caps-Flyers; Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, Game 3Where: Wachovia Center, PhiladelphiaWhen: Tuesday, April 15Okay; so Sunday didn't go exactly as planned. Time to take a deep breath, regroup, and prepare ourselves for Game 3: Revenge.You know, the City of Brotherly Love is never quite so lovely as when the Caps are making Flyers fans cry...and that's already happened twice this season.

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-36976439204413770922008-04-13T17:01:00.003-04:002008-04-13T17:02:58.617-04:00

Game 3 is on Tuesday. Philadelphia is a lovely place for revenge, isn't it?

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-48676605679711368702008-04-12T09:54:00.003-04:002008-04-12T10:07:07.781-04:00

During the last week there has been a poll on the Caps website asking fans to vote on who would score the first goal of the series. Oddly enough, Donald Brashear didn't even show up on the list of options.But it was Brash who kickstarted the scoring last night, earning a goal-scorers' goal just under four minutes in to give the Caps a 1-0 lead. He threw himself into the boards with glee,

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-28503211914869832008-04-12T01:58:00.002-04:002008-04-12T01:59:51.311-04:00

That's how you do it, boys - one down!

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-21199330951487268502008-04-11T12:05:00.002-04:002008-04-11T12:31:29.163-04:00

We've talked about the things you can measure, the stats and numbers and things that come in neat, pretty packages. But what about those qualities that every playoff team needs that you can't necessarily quantify with digits? It's often these little things that set the contenders apart from the teams that get swept...although they're often harder to pin down. Time to break down Intangibles:Follow

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-61563195369539164292008-04-11T00:29:00.004-04:002008-04-11T12:33:33.662-04:00

It still feels like some sort of surreal dream that we're even here right now...but here we are. Almost a week to the day the Caps clinched the Southeast Division, the curtain rises on a new postseason and we sit on the cusp of the first playoff game in DC in many years - and the first playoff game period for many of our players (and our coach).If you're like me, this past week has been a true

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-1856685122184582008-04-10T17:52:00.002-04:002008-04-10T18:44:12.611-04:00

One day left; anyone hyperventilating yet? Time to cool down a little, take a breath...and meet Martin Biron.Name: Martin Gaston Biron (yes, really.)Born: August 15, 1977From: Lac St. Charles, PQHeight: 6'1"Weight: 165 lbsPosition: GoalieCareer with Philadelphia: Traded to the Flyers February 27, 2007; signed a 2-year, $7 million extension a month later2007-08 Season: 30-20-9, 2.59 GAA, .918 S%

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-39223635171071038332008-04-09T14:22:00.006-04:002008-04-09T19:19:52.895-04:00

It's always fun to see ESPN's "experts" weigh in on different hockey-related subjects - it's more fun when they're nice, even glowing, in their discussions of the Caps. Observe:1. Which player do you think will be one of the out-of-nowhere role players who surprises everyone in the playoffs?Scott Burnside: I would keep an eye on Tom Poti. The veteran in Washington has put some injuries behind him

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-67878561977131626772008-04-09T12:24:00.002-04:002008-04-09T14:37:48.526-04:00

Since the lockout power plays and penalty killing have become more and more important - but it's always been a key ingredient of a successful playoff team. Time to break down Special Teams...Power Play Power: Philadelphia is a scary, scary team when they have the extra man and have been among the league leaders throughout the regular season in power play effectiveness. In fact as the regular

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-86050114628734662222008-04-08T18:15:00.000-04:002008-04-08T18:35:52.197-04:00

Playoff series are a great way to get to know another team - but it's always fun to do a little scouting ahead of time, isn't it? We'll start with none other than the magical spearing midget himself, Daniel Briere.Name: Daniel BriereBorn: October 6, 1977From: Gatineau, PQHeight: 5'10" (...uh-huh. Sure.)Weight: 181 lbsPosition: CenterCareer with Philadelphia: Signed as a ridiculously overpaid free

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-27988089040334567562008-04-08T12:08:00.003-04:002008-04-11T01:13:36.685-04:00

Today I want to talk about our defense. The best defense is an offense, and the best offense is a defense. The reason why offense is the best defense is because in hockey, the team that scores the most wins. And if our offense outscores their offense, they'll be defenseless. Their defense might be able to stop our offense, but it can't stop our defense. Because when we're on defense they have to

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-81833146580040983532008-04-07T22:30:00.005-04:002008-04-07T23:14:04.941-04:00

It's been great to see the growing friendship over the past few years between the Caps and other local sports teams like the Washington Nationals, and tonight Mike Green and Cristobal Huet became the fourth and fifth members of the Caps to make their way out to the mound to throw out the opening pitch. Here are a few captured moments from the evening:There was a nice little presentation on the

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-689125451248975872008-04-07T12:00:00.012-04:002008-04-07T12:42:04.426-04:00

We've got a bit of time on our hands thanks to the fact that we'll have to wait until Friday for our series to start. I guess it's been four long years...we can wait another day or two, right?So to kill a bit of time and sort out this matchup we'll be breaking down the various pieces that go into building a championship team and comparing the Caps to the Flyers, a different piece every day. It

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-56994303689577472582008-04-07T07:36:00.002-04:002008-04-07T05:49:05.170-04:00

Okay, Caps fans, no whining allowed.Why? Because the NHL has released the first round broadcast schedule - and while we love moaning and complaining that Crosby gets more attention, it seems that for the moment Ovechkin's playoff debut has become a bigger draw.The Caps-Flyers series has apparently been tabbed as the must-see Eastern Conference matchup (Detroit-Nashville will get the love for the

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-33985826628556677492008-04-06T20:51:00.004-04:002008-04-06T23:00:37.950-04:00

It's been a long stretch of emotional ups and downs over the past few months - for the team and the fans.But there was no greater emotional high than the moment the clock ticked down to zero last night, signalling the end of the 2007-08 regular season - and the beginning of the Caps' first playoff run since 2003.Phrases like "Cinderella story", "team of destiny", "dream" and "fantasy" have been

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-25924217803994472142008-04-06T03:35:00.004-04:002008-04-06T03:41:04.708-04:00

YOUR 2007-2008 SOUTHEAST DIVISION CHAMPIONS What a ride! ...and it's only just begun.

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-36179836785674996742008-04-05T01:38:00.008-04:002008-04-05T03:10:37.787-04:00

I was going to do a normal gameday preview, but somehow with this latest turn of events the usual frivolities seem to fall a little short - so we'll keep it simple.Last game. Last chance. Everything boils down to this one night. Win or get a point, and we're in; lose in regulation and we're out. It feels like the last 6 months have been leading up to this one moment, this one game. Everything

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-4412416601283932012008-04-04T01:16:00.000-04:002008-04-04T04:30:00.090-04:00

What more is there to say?The important thing here is that the Caps not only got two points but as soon as they took the lead (2165 hours after the game started) they seemed to smell blood and went in for the kill. It was mercifully devoid of any extra-frame excitement, although thanks to Karri Ramo the Lightning hung in there a lot longer than they should have - don't kid yourselves, if they

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-33062765985586422512008-04-02T21:34:00.006-04:002008-04-02T21:38:53.787-04:00

Alright, kids - straight from the owner, the Caps have extended the highly successful "Red Out" for the final two games:Capitals Extend Red Out to Remaining Two Regular-Season Games at Verizon CenterFans are encouraged to show their support and wear red to Thursday’s game vs. Tampa and Saturday’s regular-season finale against FloridaARLINGTON, Va. – The Washington Capitals have extended Tuesday’s

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-82207606228547109602008-04-02T15:31:00.002-04:002008-04-02T15:47:40.771-04:00

Lately it seems like someone new jumps on the Caps bandwagon every day. Our newest traveling companion, though, is the most unlikely of supporters - Damien Cox. Yes, the man who has consistently berated and mocked and belittled this Caps team is finally on board with a staggering statement: the Caps are so much more than just Ovechkin.Read on:A team that was the NHL's worst in November and not

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-30694493370406772102008-04-02T08:30:00.001-04:002008-04-02T07:03:11.003-04:00

Last night's crowd drew more than a few raised eyebrows and it seems to be all anyone can talk about - every newspaper article, blog post and column will be talking about what transpired at the Phone Booth last night, and for good reason. A sellout crowd swathed in red and cheering on the home team as though it was Game 7 of the finals? Unheard of in most hockey cities, let alone in DC.Two of

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-90804669092063960202008-04-02T07:36:00.003-04:002008-04-02T06:46:35.280-04:00

Last night's game certainly wasn't for the faint of heart...nor should it have been.The Caps and Canes exchanged bone-crushing checks, glamorous saves, end to end rushes, odd-man breaks, even injuries to key players. It had the look, feel and sound of a playoff game. It was what every great division rivalry should be - it was what the league intended when it force-fed the nauseating parade of

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-53669821571768212252008-04-01T23:40:00.002-04:002008-04-01T23:44:11.781-04:00

Photo courtesy of APA raucous sellout crowd, a dominant performance and a tie for first in the division. Yup, that's a good night!

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-81263401239836704272008-04-01T15:52:00.000-04:002008-04-01T16:45:34.217-04:00

Okay, so you've checked out what the Canes are doing to prepare and it's time to get yourself ready to go.What better way to get the blood pumping than with the (un)official theme song of the 2007-08 Washington Capitals? Illustrated with a few select images, of course, and compiled lovingly and painstakingly by yours truly....no, no. Hold your applause.Time to get pumped up, Caps fans - and

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-68986605698273335482008-04-01T01:01:00.002-04:002008-04-01T03:46:22.614-04:00

Who: Washington Capitals vs. Carolina HurricanesWhere: Verizon CenterWhen: Tuesday, April 1, 7:00 pmBroadcast Info: CSN, FSN-SouthMedia Notes:Caps' SiteCanes' SiteNHL.comWashington TimesWashington PostRaleigh News-ObserverAnd so it all comes down to this.In a week, a month, a season full of "biggest games", this one really is the biggest of them all. Win and the Caps are still alive for both

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-4827957386481660892008-03-31T14:23:00.004-04:002008-03-31T14:58:43.385-04:00

With the Caps breathing down the necks of not one, not two, not three, but four teams right now it's safe to say that every single player in Philly, Carolina, Boston and yes, New York, are looking in the rearview mirror.All you have to do is scan the sports pages from these cities to see exactly how much pressure the Caps are putting on everyone.Boston, a team that has flip-flopped with the

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-69536623890880345552008-03-30T02:20:00.003-04:002008-03-30T02:49:36.006-04:00

Now that the Caps have returned to the "safety" of DC, let's look at what they accomplished:- A potentially monstrous, heartbreaking end of the season road trip ends up going the Caps' way, with only one loss in six games away from Verizon Center. That's 10 - count 'em, 10 - points out of a possible 12.- Last night's win gives the Caps 40 on the year. The last time that happened was the 2000-2001

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-65424919241963731252008-03-29T22:53:00.007-04:002008-03-30T02:48:04.843-04:00

Photo courtesy of APJust two nights after their second straight nailbiting win, the Caps managed to put together a much more solid, convincing (if not a little bit boring) win - and put the Panthers out of their misery.It's hard to analyze this one too deeply for a number of reasons. For one thing, this was a very dejected Panthers team that had just dropped two straight and although not

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-1818101695595966022008-03-28T11:02:00.002-04:002008-03-28T16:45:50.125-04:00

With less than four minutes to go in regulation last night, the Caps trailed the bottom-feeding Lightning 3-2. It was a game that included stretches of the Caps outplaying their opponent intertwined with stretches where they looked either disinterested or hemmed in. And for Caps fans, it didn't look like two points were going to happen.With less than four minutes to go in regulation last night,

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-16394138243801631552008-03-27T23:33:00.004-04:002008-03-27T23:41:46.106-04:00

(...had to be done. Sorry.)Photo courtesy of APMy sentiments exactly, Brooks. Shall we go for another heart-stopping win on Saturday or can we just win decisively for once?

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-31133367992857295272008-03-27T15:14:00.004-04:002008-03-27T15:28:37.087-04:00

Reports out of Beantown have winger Chuck Kobasew out of the lineup for 4-8 weeks with a broken leg, an injury which continues to ratchet up the number of bruised and battered for the Bruins. He'll join Marc Savard, out with a cracked bone in his back, and probably defenseman Andrew Ference, out with a leg injury, on the sidelines for tonight's game against the Leafs.Remember two things.One, the

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-61406885047635702372008-03-27T14:20:00.006-04:002008-03-27T15:07:14.634-04:00

In the days and weeks leading up to the trade deadline, one of the biggest names floating around had been Brad Richards of the Tampa Bay Lightning. His sizable contract on a team that was likely going to be in a rebuilding phase made him a prime target for movement, and on February 26 the Lightning finally pulled the trigger. The deal sent Richards and Johan Holmqvist, Tampa's de facto starting

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-17879797541534033102008-03-26T14:28:00.007-04:002008-03-26T14:53:28.339-04:00

Per the Caps' website, the Caps have signed Jay Beagle to a two-year entry level contract.Financial terms were, as usual, not disclosed but it's probably safe to say he'll earn around the league minimum. Beagle has emerged as one of the top scorers for the Bears, picking up 32 points (18G, 14A) in 54 games played this year - for more scouting info you can check out Talk Hockey to Me, a

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-89410064028009670112008-03-26T14:09:00.004-04:002008-03-26T14:17:33.890-04:00

Add former Cap Matt Pettinger to the growing list of people who thinks Ovechkin should earn the Hart Trophy this year: "I haven't seen Iginla play this year -- I know what his numbers are --but (Ovechkin) scoring 60 goals and carrying his team, I don't know without him where Washington would be. The way he ignites the teams and ignites the fans, it's tough to go against him."Now that we've heard

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-83180078035306945042008-03-25T23:04:00.004-04:002008-03-26T06:46:24.879-04:00

Photo courtesy of APThere was speculation after Friday's come from behind win about which team would emerge in Raleigh last night. Would it be the team that looked sluggish over the last three or four games or the one that rallied from a two goal deficit en route to a decisive 5-3 win?After the first dizzying shift of swift skating, sharp passing, hard checking beauty the answer was clear. The

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-20043138354681388122008-03-23T15:15:00.006-04:002008-03-23T15:50:21.908-04:00

Since the advent of the three point game, it seems like the end of the year sends analysts and fans scurrying to the calculator to determine what, if any, impact that extra point has on the ultimate playoff standings. And year after year the conclusion remains the same - the impact is minimal at best.This year, however, it could be something to take a look at. If the Capitals don't make the

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-21387217837718772572008-03-22T11:41:00.010-04:002008-03-22T14:29:12.772-04:00

This team is so fun.No, really. It would be boring if they insisted on playing one way the entire season, consistently well or consistently badly, let alone within one game. Playoff race shmayoff race, it's much more fun this way - keeps us on our toes, we never really know what we're going to get.Except when it comes to the great #8. With him, what you see is what you get night in and night out.

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-73561346263896006662008-03-21T22:18:00.004-04:002008-03-21T22:26:42.693-04:00

How sweet it is indeed...on to Raleigh.

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-29236536200952543622008-03-20T21:55:00.002-04:002008-03-20T22:26:28.176-04:00

If there is one team worthy of drawing ire from the Caps and from the rest of the Eastern Conference, it's the Florida Panthers. It's just so annoying - they don't seem to realize the season has started until March, when they suddenly find another level to their game and not only play spoiler but put the fear of god into whatever teams may lie ahead of them.The last time the Panthers went to the

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-28620495211848517932008-03-20T15:30:00.004-04:002008-03-20T16:12:20.313-04:00

Seven games left and a bit of ground to cover. So what's ahead for our competition? Have the scheduling gods smiled upon us or is Bettman's ultimate plot still in motion?...yes?Here's how it breaks down:Carolina Hurricanes - 1st in division with 85 points- Seven games remaining, four at home and three on the road- Two sets of back-to-back games- Panthers twice (Carolina leads season series 4-2)-

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-76174019281619779182008-03-20T14:48:00.002-04:002008-03-20T15:07:01.226-04:00

"We've just got to put this game ... throw it in the trash and not let it linger."- Olie Kolzig"That might have been the result of the past couple of games where we were fortunate enough to win, but got out-played for the most part."- Matt Cooke"I just think we had a real stinker."- Bruce BoudreauConsensus? This game stunk. From beginning to end it had us wishing it wasn't televised, had us

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-69457860385051146902008-03-19T23:23:00.000-04:002008-03-19T23:27:11.802-04:00

Photo courtesy of Getty ImagesYou never want a game to be over in the first two minutes of play but this one was, as before RCN's cable geniuses had even flipped on the feed Williams had scored and that was it, game, set, match.It almost seemed inevitable. The Caps have been going at full speed for so long now, playing great hockey and for the most part getting results; a letdown was bound to

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-63265350922702843132008-03-19T13:54:00.005-04:002008-03-19T14:17:11.429-04:00

We've gotten a pretty good taste of Sergei Fedorov's moves on the ice, but what about off the ice? Check it out:And a little behind-the-scenes action with Feds and his brother:He's quite the renaissance man, isn't he?

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-8941660684491968732008-03-19T12:47:00.005-04:002008-03-19T13:32:47.795-04:00

It was a nailbiter for sure towards the end but when all is said and done what matters is that the Caps got two points - and they did it in that coveted game in hand, drawing them even with Carolina and Florida in games remaining.Frankly after last weekend's losses it's nice to see that the Caps still have two viable options left for a crack at the postseason. The win propelled them over Buffalo

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-48725173577621805542008-03-18T22:38:00.003-04:002008-03-18T22:47:54.317-04:00

Photo courtesy of APCongratulations to #8 for #100 and #300...and thank you, Cristobal.

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-41223112400097061212008-03-18T01:23:00.002-04:002008-03-18T04:45:18.287-04:00

Who: Washington Capitals vs. Nashville PredatorsWhere: Sommet Center, Nashville, TNWhen: Tuesday, March 18, 8:00 PMBroadcast Info: CSN, FSNMedia Notes:Caps' SiteNHL.comWashington TimesWashington PostSo here we go, On the Road Again. The Caps will be looking for some Sweet Southern Comfort as they pay a visit to Nashville, home of country music and the Predators, for the first game of a

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-50310175555135456372008-03-16T19:36:00.004-04:002008-03-16T20:05:02.664-04:00

It's been a long while since we could legitimately say that our goalie stole a game for us...but today our goalie stole a game for us.Huet turned aside 39 shots on goal and another two in the shootout to give the Caps a much needed 2-1 victory over the Bruins. It's a nice bit of payback for last Saturday's heartbreaker, snatching away a win after being outplayed for most of the game and even

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-36465444647202631372008-03-15T14:29:00.003-04:002008-03-15T14:36:42.659-04:00

Courtesy of ESPN, check out the shot breakdown from last night...those are some beautiful little x's to the left, aren't they?

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-64042441937759233842008-03-15T12:18:00.003-04:002008-03-15T13:05:15.899-04:00

Photo courtesy of AP Dominant.That's one word you could use to describe the Caps' 4-1 victory over the Thrashers last night. Simply dominant. Despite falling behind 1-0 in the first and appearing a little sluggish to start the game, the Caps still managed to outshoot, outdraw, outhit and outscore a weary Atlanta team en route to a crucial two points. It was a truly great team win and continues a

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-84202420806798062352008-03-13T16:11:00.008-04:002008-03-13T17:07:36.915-04:00

One down, 11 to go...- First off, congratulations again to Olie Kolzig on his 300th win, an amazing feat. It's been a chaotic couple of months, a chaotic season, a chaotic career - but the way he's been playing lately and the way he played last night, it's not hard to see how he achieved 300 wins.Photo courtesy of capitals.nhl.comWhatever happens after this season, the incredible things he's

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-73245940254062829302008-03-12T23:03:00.001-04:002008-03-12T23:05:41.765-04:00

Photo courtesy of AP Congratulations, Olie!

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-39113369595526773132008-03-11T23:35:00.003-04:002008-03-12T00:23:50.537-04:00

As the decongestants wear off and the sadness from this weekend's back to back heartbreakers fades away it's time to look at the rest of the season with a cool, calm and realistic eye.No, the Caps aren't out of the playoff race just yet. From here on out, though, it's even more of an uphill climb that will take a combination of Caps wins, help from other teams, and general good luck to get this

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-2536503686200183102008-03-08T00:03:00.000-05:002008-03-08T00:13:07.547-05:00

It's hard to claim injury or illness at a time of year when the big guys are likely playing with broken bones and torn muscles - and yet here we are. The flu has struck the Cheap Seats and alas, I am just not as tough as the boys who get paid millions to play a game. Go figure.At any rate, gameday previews for this weekend's back to back matinee games will therefore be reduced to reliving some

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-23958771146113209222008-03-06T00:02:00.000-05:002008-03-05T23:54:15.736-05:00

With sunshine there always seems to be a little rain here in DC...Mike Vogel is reporting that Dave Steckel broke his finger and is out for 2-3 weeks. It's a huge loss for the Caps - not only is Stecks one of the better faceoff men and penalty killers on the team, but he also makes up one-third of the Steckel-Cooke-Bradley line that has been flying these past two games.It's that time of year, I

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-22375708034104552892008-03-05T22:09:00.007-05:002008-03-05T23:30:35.465-05:00

Photo courtesy of Getty Images It is a week of exorcising demons.It feels good. Great. Fantastic. Like an enormous weight has been lifted.It wasn't a pretty game to say the least, but that tells you that the Caps played a perfect road game. They jumped on mistakes, got odd-man rushes, clogged up the neutral zone and shut it down in net. It may not have been necessarily enjoyable to watch and you

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-19821680995179895092008-03-05T16:43:00.005-05:002008-03-05T17:19:14.830-05:00

- With Huet still not 100%, Olie gets the nod tonight...so start your engines, everyone who wants to whine and moan and throw in the towel before the puck even drops.But first, remember a few things. One, Olie was not the only reason or even the biggest reason the Caps lost on Saturday, but he was a big reason they won last Monday against the Wild. And two, Huet resting tonight means he'll be

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-59011040880955579192008-03-05T16:30:00.001-05:002008-03-05T16:32:12.617-05:00

The Capitals are 3-1 in their last four games, and one of the main reasons for the mini-hot streak has been other guys stepping up. Since up until Saturday Ovechkin was mired in a career-long goalless drought, it was up to the rest of the team to find their offensive touch - so it's no wonder that when that happened, the wins started to come.Here's where the points have come from in the last week

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-9078591651914272052008-03-05T02:15:00.003-05:002008-03-05T03:00:52.933-05:00

Who: Washington Capitals vs. Buffalo SabresWhere: HSBC Arena, Buffalo, NYWhen: Wednesday, March 5, 7:30 pmBroadcast Info: CSN+, MSG, NHL Network (US), TSNMedia Notes:Caps' SiteNHL.comWashington TimesWashington PostLess than 48 hours after finishing up their most dominant performance of the year, the Caps travel to hostile land to take on the Buffalo Sabres. And by hostile...well, you've seen them

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-65793264267184075612008-03-04T07:27:00.005-05:002008-03-04T05:33:08.588-05:00

Quote of the Night:"We heard them. [Matt Bradley] was like, 'The fans wanted it, and I am a fan favorite, so I had to give them what they wanted." - Brooks Laich, on the fans chanting "we want 10" with the Caps up 9-2There are a number of ways to look at this game - feel free to pick your favorite.One way would be to write it off as yet another chapter of the Caps' ongoing inconsistencies, off

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-53516454255439724312008-03-03T22:56:00.005-05:002008-03-03T23:01:47.243-05:00

Photo courtesy of APThe look says it all. Big night for Ovie but a bigger night for everyone involved - talk about bouncing back!Much more to come on this one later, but for now...just enjoy the afterglow.

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-83587460071182405772008-02-29T22:55:00.003-05:002008-02-29T23:17:33.489-05:00

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-89912249620532752332008-02-29T03:13:00.003-05:002008-02-29T03:49:42.619-05:00

Who: Washington Capitals vs. New Jersey DevilsWhere: Prudential Center, Newark, NJWhen: Friday, February 29, 7:00 pmBroadcast Info: CSN; FSN-NYMedia Notes:Caps' SiteNHL.comWashington TimesWashington PostHere we go again - another game that is "the biggest game of the year", and it's up to the team to ignore all the controversy swirling around them and just play their game. Carolina's off tonight

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-70138908888462374922008-02-28T18:13:00.006-05:002008-02-28T18:59:36.659-05:00

As the dust settles from the Huet deal, it's starting to look more and more like this goaltender situation could be a problem. How big a problem and what repercussions it will have, on and off the ice, remains to be seen.Looking at this move from both a GM standpoint and a hockey fan standpoint, bringing Huet in for a song was absolutely the right thing to do. You get a proven number one goalie

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-70873524656751249292008-02-26T23:19:00.005-05:002008-02-26T23:35:49.349-05:00

Nothing like a spirited game from start to finish by the Caps to show just how excited these guys are to meet their new teammates, right?Put the questions about the goaltending situation behind you; worry not about Ovechkin's continued goal-scoring drought. Because all that matters right now is that this was a huge team win tonight, with stellar performances from Olie Kolzig and Brooks Laich

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-87232970780094536272008-02-26T15:47:00.007-05:002008-02-26T16:54:04.649-05:00

So the deadline has passed, the dust is slowly settling, and it's time to take stock of what we've got, what we lost, and where we're going.Let's start with the first deal of the day for the Caps. GMGM snatches up Cristobal Huet from Montreal for a second round pick in 2009, the pick received in exchange for Brian Sutherby. Talk about maximizing your assets - in Huet the Caps get a 32-year-old

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-70634931014287170592008-02-26T13:15:00.001-05:002008-02-26T13:16:30.874-05:00

...so much for a nice, quiet trade deadline day here in DC, right?Welcome your new Washington Capitals: Cristobal Huet and Sergei Fedorov.Raise your hand if you saw either one of those coming.

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-57274894657895566722008-02-26T02:04:00.001-05:002008-02-26T04:34:33.998-05:00

According to Yahoo!'s Ross McKeon, a deal is pending that will see the Stars send a package of players to Tampa Bay in exchange for Brad Richards - among them Jeff Halpern and backup goalie Mike Smith. The same source is saying the Canadiens have landed Marian Hossa in another packaged deal that could see, among others, Michael Ryder heading to Atlanta.Keep in mind that no one else is confirming

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-81742131503624446332008-02-25T21:03:00.003-05:002008-02-25T22:09:41.253-05:00

With rumors flying and a good chunk of the Southeast Division potentially on the move, these next 18 hours could prove eventful...or they could fall far short of expectations. My guess is it'll be somewhere in between.Here in DC the rumor mill is pretty quiet; we've already heard it straight from GMGM that the Caps, barring a fantastic bargain that will help the team, are standing pat with the

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34226825.post-29283922958155994472008-02-24T23:16:00.004-05:002008-02-24T23:28:51.005-05:00

I'm starting a petition to force Martin Brodeur into early retirement. After all, there's nothing like going out on top, and saving the collective rear ends of your listless team certainly qualifies as the top....who's with me?

CapsChickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12842304975138438055noreply@blogger.com4