The showdown between the Washington Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins was the series most hockey fans were looking forward to. Unfortunately to this point, the series has been heavily one-sided and as result, it’s left the Capitals in a 3-1 hole. The issue is, where does the blame lay?
GTD: What’s Wrong With the Washington Capitals
As the guys discuss, it’s difficult to point to one individual player, or ever a group of forwards that have significantly underperformed. But perhaps that word, forward, is the keyword. Washington’s blueline, while not lackluster, simply hasn’t performed to it’s fullest potential. Trade-deadline acquisition Kevin Shattenkirk stands out as the player who has impressed the least. Even then, can the series really fall at the feel of a single player? Does blame fall on head coach Barry Trotz? It’s a difficult question to answer, and one the guys spend serious time mulling over.
Can The Senators Hang On Against New York
From one Eastern Conference series to another, the question has to be asked about the Ottawa Senators: can they really defeat the Rangers? It took a miraculous four goal performance from Jean-Gabriel Pageau in game two to top the blueshirts, and the Sens were lifeless in game three. If Ottawa wants to have shot at bringing home Lord Stanley’s cup, they’ll need to find a way to deal with the speed, and aggressive forecheck that has wrought havok upon them in the last two games. Game four will be one for the ages at MSG.
Predators Are Picking Up Speed
Is there any team in the post-season that has looked as good as Nashville has. Perhaps the Penguins are the answer to that question, but without doubt, Nashville looks like the team to beat in the Western Conference. They appear set to make the finals in just nine games, only the second team to do so in the last three years, and against tough opposition as well. They stormed through Chicago, and now the Blues are crumbling under the speed, and transition of this Predators offense. Or perhaps more accurately this Predators defence. Ryan Ellis, and the rest of the blueliners have been key this series, and the guys discuss if they can continue to direct the play in the manner they have so far.
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Colton Praill
I host my own radio show across Manitoba, CA. When I’m not regaling you with whimsical stories, I’m writing, podcasting, or lamenting the woes of Arsenal, Detroit Lions, and Ottawa Senators fandom.
Nick Seguin
A brand marketer by day, a writer by night. Nick is a lover of all things hockey and a die hard fan of the Detroit Red Wings. With contributions to multiple blogs, Nick is continuing to marry his two passions: writing and hockey.
Graham Anderson
I’m a recent Brock University grad and a huge Blue Jays and Wild fan. I spent two years in the UK and am happy to be back in London Ontario for the 2016-17 MLB playoffs and NHL season.
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