'Super Tuesday'

I am too excited to concentrate on work today. Let's Go Caps!

I hope we win the North Carolina primary then!

GO CAPS!
(fingers crossed...)

Got my fingers and toes crossed!
I predict a hat for OV, and I'm never wrong.

Let's Go Caps!! I hope they bring it like they did in the 3rd period of Atlanta. That was some truely inspiring hockey. I'll be flying through my exam tonight, so I can at least watch part of the game. Hopefully I won't be disappointed...

Id love to have Lainger in there as opposed to Flash. Atleast we know what we can get out of Laing, flash...not so much.

You would think it would be a no brainer... I hope flash proves me wrong and scores a big goal.

Flash should be in the press box. He plays too lazy and too small to be effective in the NHL. Bring up a hustle guy like Bourque who has a scoring touch; he'd fit much better with Laich and Cooke. Fehr is a really good call on the 2nd line in that Semin and Flash on the same line is asking for trouble. I like the defensive pairings.

FROM LAST SESSION:

@ JSchon re: Front Page

That was my statement, and I will retract it, it wasn't a viewing party. I guess they had just stated that they were going to show the game and have some discounts.

I am going to give them another shot tonight, hopefully we pack the house, not that it will take a lot of CAPS fans.

BTW I believe that the Budweiser products are $1.00 at CAPS games, but in the bottle, I had a few drafts before I found that out. So you may want to bring that up w/ your server before hand.

$4.00 draft - $1.00 bottle, that was easy.

GOOD LUCK GREENIE!
LET'S GO CAPS!!!

I like the storyline that this game is important to have a chance at the division. However, the reality is, and many agree, that the Caps need at least 10 points in the last six games to have a chance to make the playoffs period. Every game is important for any scenario. Lose twice and they're done.

TSN appears to have jumped on the "Super Tuesday" bandwagon as well. Perhaps Buce doesn't deserve ALL the credit for coining that one...

Is anybody doing work or are you doing the same thing I am and constantly checking the remaining schedules of everyone in the race!!!

Lets go Cap-i-tals (Clap, clap, clap clap clap)

See ya'll at the Caps viewing party at Front Page!!!!!!!!!

Good for Eminger--had a solid game Friday and gets rewarded by getting a jersey for tonight...hope his solid play (as well as the rest of the team's) continues...

Lets go Rangers, Let's Go Toronto (who will be without Sundin and Antropov), Lets go Tampa Bay, Let's go Senators, Lets Go Devils (just because its fun to see the Pens lose).

Am I missing anything?

@ Sombero Guy

Yeah, Let's go Caps!!!

Come on Boys! Although I don't think ends tonight if we lose. This story has more twists left yet I feel.

3-1 Caps win with Ovie, Feds and Brooks to get the goals.

Good luck Greenie too if he/she hasn't already left for NC yet.

UNLEASH THE SUPER TUESDAY FURY!!!!!

I say we release Brashear and get Patrick Roy's son to be our enforcer...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V300TvmWuxU

I've learned my lesson.

I'm skipping out of class early tonight to watch the Capitals game ... and keep an eye on several other key games on Center Ice.

It would definitely be nice to start seeing some of that "I score the big goals" play from Mr. Fehr. This day is dragging!! Bring on the game already!

LET'S GO CAPS!!!

@ Jim

Haha, yeah I took care of that part in my first post, but thanks for keeping me in check

finally, Semin in his natural position!...second line looks good.
good to see Emmy in as well!

GO CAPS!!!!

unfortunately, i'll be listening to Kolbe tonite, then watching the DVR later:(

Roy's kid is freaking insane, when is he elligible? I wish I could skip tonight

Aint this fun? We actually have a reason to show up for the games and root in late March. Awesome.

Lets go Capitals lets go!

Too much hoopla, they haven't shown they can rise to the occasion in the past when the fans go expecting to see magic.

This is another opportunity for them to make or break a lot of season ticket sales for Ted. History kinda says what generally happens in these cases, but you gotta believe the team will deliver at some point.

(yes I know it's an away game, but all eyes are on)

Wow. Roy's son kicked some serious butt there.

Roy's son is an idiot! And a coward! Who fights a person when they're on the ground? Wuss

I may puke.....

Sorry,

it is $2.00 Budweiser products, but remember, bottle, not draft.

Unrelated, Boston is without Marc Savard for their home-and-home with the Leafs (last I checked he was leading the league in assists).

I'M FREAKIN' OUT MAAAN

Scratch Flash, play Laing. Laing plays his soul out every shift and does whatever it takes. Flash... not so much.

@ austinsteve

Who cares about season ticket sales right now???

IMO if you haven't seen enough exciting hockey w/ the obvious expectation of moving forward to bigger and better next year as these kids progress in their careers... i feel sorry for ya.

@Finn

Yeah i agree. Roy should have let up once it was clear the guy on the ground was done.

I'm still here!

Super Tuesday isn't unique or that hard to come up with. I know that because I called tonight the same thing on our my families blog this morning. If I could come up with it, then anyone could.

I've also been sitting at my desk being unproductive all day thinking about this game tonight.

I feel I must drink heavily before and during the game in order to combat my anxiety...

Everybody wear your lucky jerseys tonight.

I'll be sporting the Kozzy.

I hate to say this, and golly I hope the boys win, and I'll be cheering, but every time they have a long break, the caps seem to come out flat. Big game, they come out flat. I hope I'm wrong

Scofield

"IMO if you haven't seen enough exciting hockey w/ the obvious expectation of moving forward to bigger and better next year as these kids progress in their careers... i feel sorry for ya."

applause applause applause standing ovation etc etc etc.

I couldn't say it any better myself. And believe me, what you've put on paper has been going through my head for quite some time. I'm just no eloquent enough to get it the paper.

/more applause.

I'll be sporting a blank one since thats all I have, I can't decide who I want to be....although I thought about "00" with my name

Time for a trade deadline recap, allow Mr. Stat guy to provide the... stats?

PIT
Hossa 1g 5a in 6 games 3w 3l
Dupuis 2g 9a in 11 games 7w 4l

ATL
Christensen 2g 2a in 10 games 2w 8l
Armstrong 3g 5a in 13 games 2w 11l

DAL
Richards 2g 7a in 9 games 2w 7l

TB
Halpern 6g 6a in 12 games 4w 8l
Jokinen 1g 8a in 13 games 4w 9l

SJ
Campbell 2g 10a in 13 games 12w 1l

BUF
Bernier 2g 6a in 10 games 5w 5l

WAS
Fedorov 1g 4a in 12 games 8w 4l
Cooke 2g 3a in 11 games 7w 4l
Huet 5w 2l 1.89gaa .926sv%

I think you forgot Holmvquist (I doubt I'm spelling it right), I want to say he got pulled in his only start

Ugh I can't get out of class tonight. Darn you, education! :p

I feel your pain

@ Yosh

Thanks for the support. I just don't think now is the time for that stuff. 2 weeks from now, good or bad, you can point back to this game if need be... but lets worry about that after the season is over.

gotta win tonight. woot!

Im so excited for the game I just spoiled my pants at work.

@ Sombrero Guy

I think it's a safe bet to root for the Rangers to win in regulation tonight as well. Philly is a team that can fall out, and give us more room to get in.

Based on what i've seen / been able to pick out.. if the Caps can go 4-1-1, we should be able to sneek into the last spot. We could even get in with less assuming a great deal of help along the way. That said, it's better to control our own destiny, so better win them all to be safe.

Go CAPS.

-PS- Anyone else bothered immensely by Semin's minus-20, and the fact that although he's been on the 2nd line, that line has been tinkered with all year long. We need to get Clark back and put on that line to give Alex some help.

Good to see eminger getting to stick in the lineup. He played well the other day.

It's been an exceedingly long time since I"ve had anything to be this excited about Caps-wise at this time of the year.

Here's to a huge win tonight!

LET'S GO CAPS!!!

I know y'all are getting tired of me repeating myself, but I'm still upset...why is Flash in the line-up? He's good for getting hit and coughing up the puck 5-6 times a game. He has scored one great goal this season with a wicked wrist shot...why not Laing on that checking line and scratch "flicker."

@Leeguru,

So you're saying when there is a layoff they are flat and when there is a big game they come out flat? If so, maybe it will be a double negative and they'll come out energized.

Is Chara back for the Bruins?

Chara is back but he's obviously playing with the shoulder injury he sustained against the Caps. He's no where near as effective.

@Yosh

I know Scofield. Trust me, eloquent is not a word I would use to describe the dude. He must have someone ghost writing his blog comments....

@Hew

"Flicker" =LMAO - that should stick.

@Old Time hockey,

I was thinking that as I was typing. I'm hoping that works out! I was panicked this morning. All excited for the game, then thought about the recent performances...

wow that other goalie must have really pissed off Roy jr there... how is dad handling this:
"son, time to put out the thrash"
"no"
*loud* "put out the thrash! or else..."
*son transforms into Hulk*

---------------------

Whatever the final result will be, I hope the Caps bring 50-60 minutes of their "A" game. If they do, there is only one outcome.

LETS-GO-CAPS!

When I was reviewing the games for today lst night, I was a litle freaked out at just how many important teams play. GO OTTAWA, RANGERS, TORONTO, TAMPA BAY and of couse GO CAPS!!!! Find some way to beat those pesky Canes!

When I was reviewing the games for today last night, I was a litle freaked out at just how many important teams play. GO OTTAWA, RANGERS, TORONTO, TAMPA BAY and of couse GO CAPS!!!! Find some way to beat those pesky Canes!

Achtung, Panzer!

Tonight I'm gonna UNLEASH MY HALF SLAP SCHULTZE to propel Caps to the victory!

Papa Schultz, a quiet tower of Caps defense

NEW YORK -- Fueled by unprecedented League-wide competition for playoff spots and positions, the NHL is on pace to obliterate its March attendance records. A per-game average of 17,900 fans -- 97% of capacity -- has filled NHL arenas this month. The existing March record average of 17,331 was set last season.

The late-season surge has ensured another season of record NHL attendance. The 2007-08 per-game average of 17,194 is running 1.7% ahead of the 2006-07 campaign, which concluded with a record figure of 16,961. The NHL will surpass 20 million in total attendance for the seventh consecutive season and will, for the first time in its 90-season history, conclude the regular season with a per-game average in excess of 17,000.

Theres no time to lose, I heard her say
Catch your dreams before they slip away
Dying all the time
Lose your dreams
And you will lose your mind.
Aint life unkind?

1) Chara iS back, he got toasted a couple of times by Kovolov the other night.
2) Eminger should be in the lineup the rest of the way. Erskine is to much of a liability
3) Fleischmann is a waste of a sweater. No points in a month? Are you kidding??? Playing regularly you have to accidently get a secondary helper. Agree that Laing deserves to be out there, Flash(hate that nickname!) does not.

Can anyone else believe it's been 12 years since the Caps were in the Cup Finals? Has it been that long since there was any excitement in springtime hockey?

Here's to making the playoffs and making some noise... Go Caps! Go Nats! Go Skins!

@Yo

Great post. The NHL is in great shape with very few teams being garbage, and the playoff hockey for the last month.

I think as VS. markets itself better with time..and a complete HD lineup...NHL Network etc...The league should be in good shape moving forward.

Somebody call Doc Brown for a time machine so I can jump ahead to March 25, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. Hopefully the Canes will "make like a tree, and get outta here..."
Is it 7:00 yet? Great scott!

Agree to it all - Eminger deserves to play, Erskine is a liability from what I have seen, and Fleischmann - hate the nickname also - far from a "Flash" shouldn't play if he can't produce. Give someone else a chance, don't get what Bruce see's in him. Today has been a complete waste of time for me! Went to the beach at lunch

Philly/NY is an important game..but really..who cares about that game. Boston is the team we should be worried about here. They are right ahead of the Caps.

Personally, I would love to see Philly win, start a Rangers slide and allow the Caps to over take Jagr and the Rangers..that would be poetic justice. But that is just me.

@ sombrero guy

the kid cleans up nice for work. it's one of the beauties of being me... although, you may be right... eloquent may be a tad much. but again, i have to thank yosh... maybe i have a face for radio (or type in this case)

See post above -

The HD thing is huge I feel. The average fan hates Hockey on TV, but the HD improves the "watchability"

Totally bored here...just waiting for end of day

if flash isnt performing why put him on a checking line where he will be useless??
sit him and play Laing who knows what his job is and unlike flash does it every game

@Wendel
Totally agree - the checking line is the worst place for "flicker." He would be best served watching from Durham or better yet Hershey.

If my calculations are correct, when this baby hits eighty-eight miles per hour... you're gonna see some serious sh**.

Is Lepisto back with Hershey?

Also, if the Caps want the best possible player for a call up it isn't Bourque. It would be Giroux!

Honk if you want me to UNLEASH MY HALF SLAP SHOT TO PROPERL CAPS TO THE VICTORY!

Papa Schultz, a tower of Caps defense

I WILL PROPEL CAPS TO THE VICTORY!

Super Tuesday will be superb day for Caps.

Papa Schultz

Shut up Shultz. You flinched when Kovalchuck came at you.

That was Morrisson

Dang Schultz you got burned....

@ mauree

re: Roy, Jr. I have been listening to NHL Home Ice radio and the talk around Canada has been whether or not Patrick instructed his son to go after the goalie. Looks like the temper dad has went into the son. And we thought Olie was emotional.

Lets hope that's the only time that is said today

papa, are u ever going to hit somebody?

Bucci picks OV MVP and Kane the Calder.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=buccigross_john&id=3310486

Well, someone said it was Morrison.

But can I still propel and unleash my half slap shot to slap Canes? Can I?

Honk here if yiou want me to unleash my 1/2 s.l.a.p s.h.o.t !

Tarik,

Since you've already started to write tomorrow's article to the leading national newspaper and the voice of America Washington Post, here my headline suggestion:

Schultz, Ovechkin propel Caps to the victory over Canes

Your humble top +/- d-man,

Papa Schultz

I'm gonna hit, slap and spank Canes tonight. Watch me!

From the previous post:

Looks like tonights match has brought out our literary sides ... next we'll be hearing from Edward Renehan!! (Oh, sorry - sore subject for some folks ... ;-)).

Dave UK Caps Fan and JSchon - well played ... you both deserve Pulitzers!! :-D

Anyone else tired of seeing the Comcast commercial with Clark? "Chris Clark plays for the Washington Capitals..." yea, if riding a bike counts as playing.

If Kovalchuk would come to me, he'd look like a teenie tiny midget cause I am a giant. Chara looks ordinary when I am next to him.

Kovy can only score with full slap shot, I can do it with half of his effort. I am the only guy in the entire Universe with half of a slapshot. Saving energy is saving the Universe, going green.

Gibby

"Can anyone else believe it's been 12 years since the Caps were in the Cup Finals?"

Well actually, it's the 10 year anniversary, but I"m not counting or anything :).

Wow. Buccis is smarter than he looks.

Leeguru:
BITE YOUR TONGUE!!!

TJ/Murshawursha:
AMEN!!! I have always been on the Laing over Flash bandwagon. Laing may not score, but at least he blocks shots (i.e. he has the highest blocks per game percentage on the team!!). Why won't the coaches listen to us?!?

Caps fan in TN:
Glad to see you FINALLY got your priorities straight ... ;-)

why am i playing? is it those naked pictures i have of BB?

@Chief Boo! aka "Lover not a fighter" (the possibilities grow)

I'm sorry I spoke my mind. Unfortunately the facts don't lie. How many times have we gone days between games, been all excited, only to be dissappointed? And this is not some of 828's reverse pyshcology

@Chief Boo! aka "Lover not a fighter" (the possibilities grow)

I'm sorry I spoke my mind. Unfortunately the facts don't lie. How many times have we gone days between games, been all excited, only to be dissappointed? And this is not some of 828's reverse pyshcology

Re: Flash

Why does everyone expect him to be an All-Star during his first full season. Granted, no points since late February is a bit of a stretch, but not everyone is an Ovechkin or Backstrom. A good comparison might be the Sedin twins. It took them both a couple of years to evolve into NHL players...

I mean he's had his opportunities, but just needs to learn to finish. I think that at this time next year everyone on this board will be clamoring how cheap the Caps got him for.

Remember the almighty Bondra only had 28 (12g/16a) points his first season with the team.

To All Caps Fans
**I promise to represent the best and most fun team to watch in hockey by drinking beer and cheering my heart out!!!!**
I'm out of here!
Checklist................
-Change of clothes
-Body Armour
-Ovie Jersey
-Tickets
-JSchon prayer!
(Hope to survive the Candy Canes!!!)
Let's GO CAPS! Finally!!!!
I'll try to check in before the game!

My girlfriend and I make a running joke out out of the ridiculousness of Comcast STILL insisting on airing that Chris Clark commercial. As a person, I wish Chris Clark the best, and I certainly hope that he heals quickly. From a hockey perspective though, at this point, as a matter of team chemistry and team improvement, he's honestly not even that big a priority to me anymore. It's almost as if his continued absence from the lineup, coupled with those repetitive and obnoxious Comcast ads, has made me annoyed with him personally, for no actual valid reason. Sorry Clarkie.

I like the first 3 lines, though I'd definitely substitute Laing in for Brashear. Its such an important game that I don't think any team is gonna be taking a lot of cheap shots, where you'd need your enforcers. On the other hand, Carolina is pretty damn fast, so a 4th line guy like Laing is perfect to keep up and block some shots. We're not playing the Flyers here. Brashear is a liability against fast teams.

But keep Flash on the 3rd line. Yeah, he hasn't produced, but the Caps will need all the offensive skill they can get against Carolina and Ward.

@ Ovie's New Tooth

You're such a slacker! Go center Ovie's teeth. Every time he smiles, you are gone.

i'm an ahl all-star. nothing more. i'll prove you wrong yosh!

Yo,

I fill the void... just not on game days ;-)

Vlad, spot on. Let Flash keep playing and give Laing (a person who can actually skate/kill penalties/contribute in a positive manner to the team) a sweater.

I have a dream...

Tonight when I step on ice in NC, it will be a small step before I get into a full stride, but it will be a giant step for Caps, fans and the kind.

It's not what Caps do for you, it's what you do for Caps on super Tuesday.

BELIEVE!!! My hald slap shot will destroy Canes ward.

I'm heading to the Front Page early. I need to secure a choice seat at the bar, unless they splurged and bought some flat screens. Be there by 5:30.

Leeguru:
No need to apologize - you have every right to speak your mind (and thank you for doing so respectfully). Having said that, shame on you! Naughty boy!! ;-) Come on, now ... you know as well as I do that you can't look at any stats or trends or whatever from this season when it comes to the Caps ... you just have to BELIEVE!!! So remember, happy thoughts = positive mojo. Got it?!? Are ya with me?!? :-)

RE: Lover not a fighter, suffice it to say that I am not a big fan of Roy at the moment ...

Yes ma'am.

I myself am an instigater. Then usually a punching bag. so I guess I'm against fighting too.... ;)

I'm officially useless at work now. Brain dead. This is from somethign I thought earlier, no brain cells were killed in creating this post.
I think Flash is going to be a decent player for us eventually. He does not have the strength to be an NHL player right now. He did work on his lower body strength this summer to get him closer, but his upper body strength is lacking. I think it would be best to sit him for the rest of the season. He is surely worn down and has been worse than useless for us because he's constantly knocked off the puck and not strong enough to be of any real use on defense.
He needs to get his rear in gear over the summer and bulk up, he's not in the AHL anymore, that speed of his ain't so special in the bigs and he can't hide that. He's not real bright, but he's quick and creative and if he can be at all responsible on defense and not cough up the puck on a regular basis, I think he'll be an effective second-liner for us. He's also got Yogi Svejkovsky syndrome, which is why no goals in a month (not going to the net).

Someone ask Papa Schultz what good a half-slapper is without someone in front of the net. The Caps score most of their goals on rebounds, screens and deflections, none of which happen without a guy in front. This is why the first powerplay has been inconsistent while the second clicks along with Laich. This is also why we started beating Lehtonen. This is why Clark scored 30 goals and why Fleischmann won't.
Someone tell Boudreau it's Arbor Day and to plant a tree in front of their cage. Gotta have at least one guy on each line to do it.
Brooks Laich won the John Madden Obvious Award with his quote "If you want goals, you go to the net." Now the Caps have to do it on a regular basis if they want to win.

Leeguru:
So is that what you were doing with your post - instigating?!? If so, it worked! ;-) Lucky for you, well, you know ...

I wish i did know....

This is what I'm gonna do to Canes tonight:

################################

pound 'em to submission.

No mercy, the killer instinct will prevail tonight...

We kill 'em dead.

Papa Schultz

I'm good enough, I'm tall enough, and dog gone it, people like me.

@ Lee,

"I myself am an instigater"

Yes you are, and good at it too.

Leeguru:
P.S. Please don't call me ma'am, sir ... ;-)

Sounds like Carolina is ready for the Caps:

http://www.newsobserver.com/796/story/1012272.html

Let's hope Ovie and crew come out jumping and silence the RBC Center. I'll be glued to the tv as usual.

Go Caps!!!

This is going in a direction that should not continue in the caps blog....

Phew.....

What Green Machine said...

Question for Tarik or the blog:

Since surely most NHL teams are doing their HOME games in HD, why can't we use their video feed and our own audio? I know the Caps have played some road games this year that have been on CSN-HD, but I don't understand why in this day and age we can't get both road and home games in HD.

Question for Tarik or the blog:

Since surely most NHL teams are doing their HOME games in HD, why can't we use their video feed and our own audio? I know the Caps have played some road games this year that have been on CSN-HD, but I don't understand why in this day and age we can't get both road and home games in HD.

Sir Leeguru:
That's a different kind of instigator ...

@Jammand,

After spending last Friday being unable to watch the Caps vs Atl, I'm happy to just see the game tonight HD or no

Work has decided to stop paying the fee for DirecTv's sports package, so I'm stuck listening on XM.

Sir Leeguru:
Mauree can hook you up with free online feeds ... he's connected! :-)

Chief Boo!

Don't call me sir, I work for a living! ;)

I forgot about that. Mauree, send me that link for watching the games

@Boo,

Was the hook you up / connected intended as a pun?

@ PACAPSFAN

I'm also stuck in PA and a Caps fan. That being said, I'd still rather see Bourque than Giroux go up for Flash. He fits the third line well due to his grade a hustle. Giroux is more finesse like Flash. The Caps don't need finesse at this stage.

BTW, where in PA are you. I'm stuck in the tenth circle of hell -- Lancaster. I wish my job had stayed in DC (boo hoo).

*wears the hacker shirt*

@Sir Lee

Here's a link, works with TVU for tonight:

tvu://66289

Leeguru:
Yes, Sir (oops, I mean, OK - got it!)! ;-)

Steve:
No ... and you two need to behave!! :-P

Mauree:
As usual, you da man!! :-)

BTW, interesting article on nhl.com regarding the Caps and the race for playoff spots in the east:

http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=358018

@mauree,

Thank you. However, it requires installing software that my computer will not allow. I will just have my XM tonight I guess.

Flash needs to do this summer whatever Green did last summer. Seriously -- he should follow Greenie's workout to a tee -- Greenie said he realized last year that he didn't have the physical size and strength for the NHL, so he did something about it. Look at the results.

It may come down to goaltending tonight. Both Kolzig & Johnson had stinkers in Carolina earlier this year. Huet fared much better against the Canes earlier this year when he was wearing a Habs jersey.

@ red dragon:

I think that is the key unknown in this. They have not faced us with Huet yet.

Let's pump the Canes full of 1.21 gigawatts! The only thing powerful enough to create that kind of energy is... Alex Ovechkin! What the hell's a gigawatt?!

Hook

Not arguing that point at all. I'm just saying that he isn't the full player he will be. For most players the first full season is a time to grow.

Though in terms of Green, I'd like to see a little bit more defense out of him.

GO SENS GO!!!
LETS GO RANGERS!!!
GO LEAFS GO!!!
TAMPA BAY PLEASE WIN 2nite!!!

LETS GO CAPS!!!!

If those 4teams win out plus the Caps I will be in heaven! GO CAPS GO!!!

GO SENS GO!!!
LETS GO RANGERS!!!
GO LEAFS GO!!!
TAMPA BAY PLEASE WIN 2nite!!!

LETS GO CAPS!!!!

If those 4teams win out plus the Caps I will be in heaven! GO CAPS GO!!!

I'm not doing well at solitare....

WHEN IS THIS GAME STARTING???!!!

Leeguru

Not soon enough. I feel like I'm stuck in limbo.

7pm Lee. What really sucks is I have an indoor game at 8:50....

Steve R

Where do you play?

@Yosh,

Tuesday nights in Rockville, just ended Thursday nights in Germantown.

Damn you P.T. Barnum,Damn you!! UTF!!

Off to class to watch this game on a silent simulcast (sheesh, don't tell the prof)

Priorities Steve. kraig won't be there, why should you?

Papa Panzer Schultz:

Now is the time for your true weapon. The three-fifths slapper. They won't know what hit 'em. No mercy.

Love the lines. Thank God Huet between the pipes!

C'mon boys! Take a lesson from Patrick's boy.

UNLEASH THE FURY!

Wish Lainger were in there, though.

In class praying the rosary for the Caps. Gotta love that old time religion.

Steve:
Where's Mauree?!? If I get grief for skating during a game, then you should get it for playing during a game!! ;-)

Mauree:
For the record, I am NOT skating tonight ... :-D

Leeguru:
What do you do that there are TVs where you work? And why on earth would they deprive you of your Cappies?!? Mauree has a few online tricks up his sleeve, so he may be able to hook you up yet! I went to one of his links once and I was able to watch without downloading anything, but I can't remember what it was ... sorry! :-(

FINALLY! It's almost game time. It felt like an eternity, waiting for this game to come..

Chief Boo!

i work at a car dealership. So we have TV's in the customer lounge. And for some reason they have cancelled the sports package, so I can't watch. Poor mee!

I just hope Comcast shows us the game and not BookTV again.

tvu?

@ Boo!

I, hope you feeling good!!! i just wanna know if you know if i can get the game on the radio that doesnt need media players. because mind doesnt work!! i can listen and i cant watch the game. And i hope we gonna win tonight that will be great!!! Go Caps!!! and go Cristobal!!!!

Looking pretty solid... need to get some goals.

Depends on which sport Steve is playing :D

Sometimes they broadcast a format viewable by media player. Tonight you need either sopcast or tvu.

Sopcast link: sop://broker1.sopcast.com:3912/22668

TVU link:
tvu://66289

What a game! Are the Canes using the honk honk honk???

That is why Eminger does not play - cause of stupid penalties like that. He is worthless.

OTT up 1-0

Where is everyone???

Crossbar - game of inches!

"What are you gonna do"

What a deflection by AO. Come on boys!!!

"The inches we need are everywhere around us. They're in every break of the game, every minute, every second. On this team we fight for that inch. On this team we tear ourselves and everyone else around us to pieces for that inch. We claw with our fingernails for that inch. Because we know when add up all those inches, that's gonna make the pucking difference between winning and losing! Between living and dying!?

I am listening. Got exciting. Had a customer. TOld customer to be quiet while game was on. NO QUESTIONS! SIGN HERE!

@Lee,

Kraig is in Calif, I'm in Olney & we're short tonight, gotta go.

@Boo,

Heap on the abuse, I can take it.

@Mauree,

Soccer

I always enjoy coming home from work and class to read the comments here. Definitely told my boss I had a group meeting for class to get out of picking up somebody's shift tonight.
Great, well there's the "enforcer" we were looking for....Keep out of the box, boys...please???

AAAHHH Steve, just an excuse. Big game here!

@828

Either you have Al Pacino in front of you now or you watched that movie a friggin lot lol

Knew a penalty was coming... must stay out of the box.

Knew a penalty was coming... must stay out of the box.

oh my god

Oy

Was the penalty even there? **&^#$^(Q#(*&$^(#(&%*^($#QW%*&^#Q(*&
$^#(Q*&$%#^%$*&(!#@$^)(#%$^&%#^&am it

Great - Caps outplay and they are not rewarded...

Mauree - searched for the quote... thought it was a must.

Again - Caps outplay the other team and the Canes get the break... typical

Buf still losing though - def need Bos and Phi to lose.

well that sucked...

Semin......

Incredibly gifted player.

Incredibly selfish player.

The most selfish player we have.

He should be on his own hockey team.

Trade Semin!!!!!

I have enough of this stupid dork

Please trade him for bag of pucks, I don't care

so how the game look so far, are they playing good! i just can watch the scores so. Is the teem doing ok!! the good thing is that's 0-0 for the first, let's hope the seconde will be great!!!

BS goal for Canes...

Kolzig would have stopped that because he would have been delayed to get over to the other side. JK - but Im sure people will say something like that.

Poor Melanie,

Mon Cherie, no, it's 1-0 Canes. A fluke goal bounced in off a caps skate. I didn't see it, but I keep hearing the Carolina Radio announcers gushing over it.

woops, i miss the first goal, well they have to play verry good for the rest of the game

Semin is -20, a definition of cancer.

I don't care if he is talented. It's not a problem. The problem is in his head. Trade the dumb mf@#*er

Melanie,

The Caps look really really good - however, the Canes just got a BS goal off of Gordon's skate on the PP. The Caps should be up 2-0 - Ward is playing really well. Need to keep up the intensity and we will win this game.

Yeah, it was suppose to be pass, but the puck hit a Caps skate, and redirected into the net. Unlucky, but still plenty of time left, and it's only one goal. And Caps are outplaying the Canes.

Melanie:
Did you try www.washcaps.com? On the right side below the Hurricanes symbol is says 3WT - Listen Live. This might take you directly there:

cache:http://gameradio.nhl.com/cc/playa.php?url=http://boss.streamos.com/wmedia-live/nhl/9314/20_nhl-washington_game_audio_050909.asx

Lee:
Poor you, indeed. As long as the customers know their place ...

Steve:
Soccer schmocker ...

Mauree:
I think skating trumps soccer, don't you?!?

Yeah, I also wouldn't mind seeing Semin traded. For a tough, veteran, stay-at-home D-man. -20? Whoooo boy.

Alex was a -19 last year and now he is a +22. Be patient with Semin - he will be alright. Stupid penalty, but I could see it coming when the Caps could not get it out of their zone. I thought it would be Morrison that would have gotten the penalty.

@ Leeguru,

thank's for that, but it's ok it's only 1-0 and we have 2 periods left so anything is possible!! am very positive for the rest of the game, i know we gonna win:)

: you know the great words in french hen!!!

@Melanie

Je took 8 years of Francais, and speak very little! Never could get the accent right

BOS up 1-0

Ugh. Semin has so much potential. If he could learn to play two ways, grrr. End of period killer with Ward standing on his head.

Lee:
You should listen via washcaps.com, too (or on 107.7) so that you can get the local announcers ... how can you stand listening to the Carolina guys?!?

I hope that goal does not deflate them (see what bad vibes do, Leeguru?!? :-P). They are outplaying the Canes and if they keep it up they will be rewarded!

It's not over - 40 fun-filled minutes to go!!!

LET'S GO CAPS!!!

Be patient? He is a cancer, even Russians fired him from their national teams twice. And when Ovechkin was -19, I am pretty sure there were players with worse +/-.

Semin peaked last season because his contract was up. Then he got a fat contract and disappeared. His ankle injury is long gone and he still sucks. Nothing close to when he worked for a contract.

This guy will never be a team player, NEVER! If Ovechkin wouldn't be around, he could be much worse.

For those watching outside the DC area with a good connection: http://sportsline.com/nhl/gamecenter/live/NHL_20080325_WAS@CAR

Auto-refresh, live updating, etc... Displays the last five plays, only slightly delayed from the actual game...

@ Leeguru

That's ok, i have a little accent myself in english, i tink it's naturel to have it. And if you dont speake verry often that's a normal thing, dont by shy of it, it's cute when you hear a person whit a accent

@Boo!
I think skating trumps soccer, don't you?!?

*cough* *cough* *coughsurecough*

That goal reminded me of the Nicklas unfortunate event. The good news: that one happened seconds from the end, we have two periods to overcome this.

COME ON BOYS!!!

@Chief Boo!

Too much metal in my building. I can't get a proper radio signal. The only reason I got XM was for the hockey games!

Melanie,

I will speak french with you any time! ;)

You would have thought somewhere along the way to the NHL that coaches would have taught Semin what the words "teammates" and "passing" meant.

I guess he was the top player on every team he played for before the Caps and needed to be the guy that had to do everything.

Got lucky with that break away.

We look timid to start the 2nd...not good.

Joe B certainly doesn't want anybody to think they actually scored that goal, does he? I believe he's used the phrase fluke goal ten times in the past three minutes...

Yo, I forgot you had so much knowledge about the Caps - my bad, you are right as Semin will probably have a goal tonight.

See

good job Semin!

Semin 1:1!!!!!!!

Do that again 828. Do that again.

GGGGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOOOOOALLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!

Good call on the goal 828!

YESS!!!! SEEEEMIIIIIIN!!!!
What a pass by Fed

Why can't the Caps score on the Canes in the PP? They are one of the worst teams in the league, sheesh!

Yeah, 828, can you do that again? Please???????

lol nice one 828 :)

Raber! Where have you been man!

Good job, Fedorov! He really had a good couple of shifts.

Well, at least Semin didn't miss an empty net

Happy to be wrong about not getting a PP goal. Boy it takes a long time to post. So glad that Semin made up for the lousy penalty! I say keep him and the bag of pucks.

SIXTY ONE!!

Leeguru:
Did you try www.washcaps.com for radio coverage?!? :-)

Melanie/Leeguru:
je ne parle pas francais, parlez anglais so vous plais.

Yo:
Cancer ... eww ... yuk ...

Mauree:
:-P :-P :-P :-P :-P

Darn it, I burned the pine nuts! See what happens when I try to make dinner when the game is on?!?

OVECHKIN!

Nice - thanks all - someone talk smack about a player... and I will counter it with a goal.

OVIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

61!!!!!!!!!

OVIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEE

What a pass by Backs..

Carolina feed just showed a black guy in black jersey cheering for Ovechkin's goal. Greenie, is it you?

Good job!

@ Boo!

i think your pretty good for someone that does not speaking french, i think your verry capable of speeking french Mr"

and it's great that Ovie score a seconde goal youpi!! Bravo Ovie!!!!

@828
Fedorov sucks, he's way too old, put anybody else in please he sucks so much - good for nothing.

Nice! Keep it going!!

Talk about holding the stick on that penalty - what a joke.

Talk about holding the stick on that penalty - what a joke.

please, please, please, NO GOAL!!!!

the Canes should be proud on their goals.

No goal - can't see the puck.

schmack-mauree - I have a feeling Feds will get another assist tonight. His huge goal is going to come later in the season.

The Carolina radio guy says no goal. i actually like this guy. he's not a homer.

Another one of the young guns will score a goal tonight though.

DAMN IT!

That was a home call. There was no conclusive view! total BS!

Ridiculous... another late period goal that was crap. And another helper by the Caps.

Can't believe that counted. Never saw it in the net. (although as Joe B is pointing out, it was in front Huet and then it wasn't and there is only one place it could be.) In a metaphysical sense, that was in. In a legal "show me" sense, no goal.

Can't believe that counted. Never saw it in the net. (although as Joe B is pointing out, it was in front Huet and then it wasn't and there is only one place it could be.) In a metaphysical sense, that was in. In a legal "show me" sense, no goal.

That shouldn't have been a goal for the Canes for at least three separate, valid reasons. I'm fully willing to buy into an anti-Caps referee conspiracy at this point, it's patently obvious (and not just in this game) that they WANT the Caps to lose.

Melanie:

I speak just enough French to be dangerous ... I do much better in German. I have actually been to Montreal a couple of times - it is absolutely beautiful!!

Were you able to get a radio feed at www.washcaps.com?

BTW, it is mademoiselle (or madame, if you must!)!! :-)

And here goes the wheels...

oh my god... what's going on...

what was the issu with the second goal for carolina, was it good or not???

nice no call on Mr. Yamaguchi.

No penalty???

FLA and Buff tied it up.

Bos up 2-0

you're kidding me how in the hell they didn't call that hook/trip????

@ Boo!

No i didnt get a radio signal, i dont know, it's just not working. And some peaple call me Madame and some call me Mademoiselle, i'm 28 so i'm in between:)

Wasn't that no goal in the NJ Pitt game the same type of goal on the last Canes goal - pushed into the goalie... what a joke - so subjective.

I'm not the best judge, but it looks to me like Green lost his edge anyway and was going down regardless, Hedican just helped him out....I guess that could go with a hook, but tripping, imo, wouldn't float...

Melanie:

Sorry the radio did not work for you. :-(

Just to clarify, I was referring to me - I am Mademoiselle (or Madame, if you must), not Mr. ... :-)

I'm outta here! Workday has ended, get to go listen to Kolby on the way home. See y'all tomorrow!

Laich is getting a goal - he is due.

sorry about that Mademoiselle!( désolée pour cette erreur:),

And if i may, what was the thing about the seconde goal, they crush on Huet and they said the goal is good???

Melanie - yeah, they stroked Huet and got off... they scored.

refs sucks!!!

I can't believe this game is tied... the two Canes goals are... a monument to injustice and negative karma.

The only way out is a spectacular third period. Overcome the refs, the bounces.

i can hardly wait until bb signs his contract so he can administer his discipline instead of worrying about gmgm's input. there are some players that need a wake up that bb cant do until he is given the contract that allows him to deal will no shows at practise,dumb penalties and a lack luster defensive committement
come on gmgm sign him and give him 100% control.

I guess Alex is a pirate now instead of a sniper (and so much more).... Ah, I guess I could see him with an eye patch and a parrot...

Yeah, Melanie.
And in New Jersey, a Penguin (Letang) pushes a Devil over his goalie blatantly (Letang didn't have his stick) and the Devils scored. Ref IMMEDIATELY waved it off, and Toronto upheld it.

I think a big issue is that they can claim that Morrisonn pushed Cole over Huet all they like, but if you watch the replay you see Cole's shoulder hits Huet's mask before Morrisonn makes contact with Cole at all.

I'm not going conspiracy, but I am calling some shenanigans.

nat - that whole pirates of the Caribean theme to Alex was so my idea... I saw that and was like WTF...

Huet is better in clearing the puck than the Dmen.

True story.

Could have used that goal off the boards.

Melanie:
Don't worry about it - I just thought you should know! :-) Regarding your question, I guess they thought our guy pushed their guy into Huet, so that's why it counted (but I didn't see it go over the line).

nice call, I never even thought about it... I might break out Photoshop later and make him a pirate and set it as my background... Ward's mask has the pirate and ship on it... an interesting coincidence...

nat - I just think that theme song is great - pumps me up for some reason - as does Alex... inspirational and cool sounding.

how's the game so far in the third, is it ok for the caps!!!

melanie - right now - could go either way.

828--Yeah, I can agree with that... its "lets go out, kick butt and take names" without being too rocky-esque or "eye of the tiger"...

Thank 828, hope they do it just in one way and beat the hurricans!!

Question for the more hockey literate--- Can you dig a puck out from under a 'tender? Assuming they didn't cover well?

Not like the puck is laying there, but if its visible under a pad or the body enough for an attacking player to see it....

Poti, what the heck was that??? I'm sure his intentions were good, but that really just looked like he was all "please don't hurt me"

nat - everything goes until the whistle blows. You may get beat up by the defenders after the play, but you keep playing until you hear the whistle.

4 min left! Melanie - hope the Caps beat the Hurricants as well.

828---okay... i guess i knew that...so as long as you don't get a ref thats super quick on the whistle, everything's gravy for going after "loose change" as joe b and locker like to call it...yeah, i knew that...sorry :\

Would like to win this game out right - but I will take the points.

Look at those senators go.....
And good ole Halpy's helping us out..

K, got 1 point... lets go for the 2nd point.

Overtime coming up. Makes it harder to overtake Carolina.

828-Ovie gonna score the wining goal, in overtime!!! cross my finger:)

NICE PENALTY!!! If it goes to a SO - we win with Huet.

Whiter Mage-
Everyone grab a broom! It's Shenanigans! No shootout please!

Obvious hooking penalty by CaROLINA.

4 on 3

COOOOOOOOMEEE ONNN BOOYSS!!

Right here, right now!

I don't know if my heart will last through OT... Well, i guess it held up through ATL, so it'll make it through...

Ok, BOS is going to win. I know its crazy, but maybe pull Huet for the 2nd point..... SO is such a crap shoot.

Shootouts are such bollocks. Go Greener go!

Six-ty Two!
Six-ty Two!
Six-ty Two!

Damn - Philly tied it up... C'mon Rangers... Jagr - earn your money

Caps win - I am confident in this.

Ward is sick

Well, the Caps had almost enough shots in OT, but here comes the shootout.

@828,

Why should Jagr earn Ted's money now. He didn't earn it when was here.

Nice miss of the first shot by CSN.

Nice job Comcast - didnt even see the first attempt by the Canes.

is this our first SO with huet in net??

Old time - maybe Jagr needs to make up for the lost chances.

YYYYYYYYYEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!

Told you... nat - no, Huet had another SO - he stopped them all in that one as well.

Kozlov gets the two points for the Caps!

yes..

SER! Yes, there is some definite Kozlov(e)at my place tonight!!!!

ward is sick about it =)

Kozlov played unbelievable tonight. And... he got a winner.

They stole this point... those were the two most ridiculous goals ever.

Great game by the Caps. 44 shots on net, Ward is a beast.

I meant Carolina stole the one point of course.

Three guys to get rid of:

Flash
Kolzig
Semin

The team would be much better off w/o them

Kozlov can have his way with my wife any time he wants.

OMG!

@ nat.

regarding the whistle/able to play the puck from underneath a goalie...the ref is supposed to blow the whistle AS SOON AS he or she loses sight of the puck. it rarely happens that way tho. do you think the ref saw the puck the WHOLE time during that play? i don't.

yes, the caps was deserving this win, whit the goals they dont deserve, it's great that we have the win, Go Caps Go!!!

@badkarma723

lmao

Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet!

Yo-
Take it easy. Semin is a baby. Give him a minute.

Kozlov as the new specialist: the shootout?

Guy can't buy a goal 5 on 5, but is nearly 50% in the SO? Jeez.

Don't worry about Yo - he is the GM for Atlanta.

Definitely a turning point tonight vs. Canes:

They deserved to lose and Caps deserved to win.

For most of the game Caps were better.

Feds and Huet were huge for this victory.

Canes commentators on Feds "I can see why he won Selke"

Philly got at least a point... We are in the same position as we were before tonight - only one point closer to Carolina and now have some breathing room from Buf, Fla, and Tor.

Okay, I thought maybe it was, I guess (unfortunately) if he had lost, I would have remembered...
Geez, the guy's been here a month and I'm already taking him for granted...Sorry, Hip Hip Huet!!
Let's go Caps!!!!!!!!!!!

Boo Yah! to all Caps fans. I am here in Carolina country, mired in hicks who really know nothing about hockey. And as a Woodbridgian and longtime (first game 78') Caps fan I am overjoyed at tonights SO win...

We finally started winning SO's this year....

What a F*****' game!!!!

Hey, eight 2 eight,

Easy, don't kill a messenger. If you tell why I am wrong, that would be much more appreciative.

@badkarma...too funny!!!

@Jordan...props for wearin the lucky Kozzy jersey!

WHAT A FINISH!

Flyers just scored...F***

%#$%-ing Rangers just blew it...

Looks like Kozlov's contract is worth every penny. nice goal.

Semin can make up for 6 minutes of screw ups in one shift. cripes I hope Sergei can talk some sense into that kid.

Philly and Boston won :-( At least Buffalo lost and we got 2!!

Boy, can't wait to hear Greenie's report!! What a blast he must have had ... I hope it makes it out alive!! :-)

As stated a long time ago - Forwards do not mature until they are 26 years old. So, going with that - I will re-evaluate Semin and Flash when that time comes. They are both young and have done good things for the Caps. Defending Semin more than I am Flash - but the same goes for both.
You can say what you want, but bottom line, both of them are here for another 2 years... so, you might as well get used to them. Semin is sick - he has not gotten a penalty in over a month. Stop trying to find a scapegoat to solve the Caps problems because it makes you seem ignorant. Enjoy the win and hope there are more to come to make the playoffs.

Flyers won - same situation as before - 4 points for 3rd or 7th - and 2 points for 8th...

If we can beat Carolina - basically, it's who ever loses first will not get the SE Div Championship. Hope Carolina starts to slide.

No worries. Philly and/or Boston will choke.

2 behind Boston, 4 behind Philly & Carolina, 5 behind NY. We gained 1 point on Carolina and NY tonight, but that's it... :-/

Given the Rangers, Bruins, and Flyers record in OT, I'm beginning to hate 3 point games.

Hell, every player they picked up at the deadline has paid off. In previous years it always seemed like they were just blindly grabbing players. Remember Tocchet?(sp?)

I guess skipping ethics class was the right call. What do I do NEXT Tuesday? :)

Boy, Carolina could have been hit with a dozen penalties tonight as cheap as they played ...

f-ing Flyers win in OT

Raber - those 3 point games may pay off for us in the end. The tie breaker goes to the most wins - with those OT losses - if we are tied with them, we will have more wins and that will launch us into the playoffs. Head to head - we will not beat Philly and Boston, however, because the tie breaker goes to the most wins first - we will take them if we are tied in points.

Green is fun AND scary to watch...Flash didn't deserve his new contract...Back line played very solid tonight. Yo, Semin's upside (22 goals?) is much greater than his downside (-19?)...GMGM signed Kozlov for his SO skill and it finally paid dividends...Anyone disagree that the Caps wouldn't still be in the hunt had GMGM not signed Huet, Feds, and Cooke?

Green is fun AND scary to watch...Flash didn't deserve his new contract...Back line played very solid tonight. Yo, Semin's upside (22 goals?) is much greater than his downside (-19?)...GMGM signed Kozlov for his SO skill and it finally paid dividends...Anyone disagree that the Caps wouldn't still be in the hunt had GMGM not signed Huet, Feds, and Cooke?

Night all - going to dream about Flyer, Bruin, and Hurricane mudslides.

Caps fan in TN:
You didn't tell us that you were skipping ETHICS, of all classes!!! LOL!!! Is that, um, ethical?!? ;-)

Feds lost to Staal in faceoffs 33%, but won overall 53%

http://www.nhl.com/scores/htmlreports/20072008/ES021143.HTM

But look at Ovechkin, wow!
11 shots on goal, 4 hits
The closest in hits is Juice - 3 hits
The closest in shots, Feds, Backie, Gordon, Semin, each 4 shots on goals.

When you look at those stats you realize what a different kind of animal Ovechkin is.

I know its been brought up before, but does Lisa Hillary ever scare anybody else when she jumps out at you from the Caps homepage??? Even the players didn't scare me that much when they jumped up.

@TJ2 I dont disagree. Huet has been huge, and its tough to see them going this deep without the additions.

I'm hoping Clarke can make it back. Also word has it that if they make into post season, Nylander will suit up. apparently he has already been skating hard and taking shoting practice at Kettler. If they make it and they are healthy, I have to think no team in the East wants any part of the caps.

Stop trying to find a scapegoat to solve the Caps problems because it makes you seem ignorant.

You're dumb. I had a better opinion of you. Say what you want, but I ignore you from now on.

Watching hockey central on versus. Has anyone made more out of a mediocre career than Jonesy?

"Has anyone made more out of a mediocre career than Jonesy?"

Barry Melrose.

@pch49 -- lmao, i found D2 mighty ducks on tv... my night may just be complete....

@Yo

Chill, dude! We know you don't like Semin. You don't have to repeat yourself every 2 minutes.

@All

OK. So I missed the game on accountathafact that I had a b'day. Family took me to dinner.

So the Refs sucked (again) - big surprise. I think that Bettman and crew told the Refs that they can't let the Caps get into the playoffs because Sindy Crysby is supposed to get all the hardware every year he plays no matter what. Even the Vezina.

What's the take on the game?

one other. Darren Pang. aka pocket hercules, only goalie with a 6 hole.

without a doubt, the worst officiated game i've ever seen - "roughing" on ovechkin? the no boarding call on Gordon late third... many cross-check/rough/hook/hold/trip calls on canes that needed to be called... just overall bs reffing, as well as the "phantom goal" - thanks a lot retardo refs - i'm hoarse from yelling at the tv.... dang!

Greg:
What?!? You had a BIRTHDAY?!? What were you thinking?!? :-P (Happy Birthday! :-))

My take on the game - the Caps outplayed the Canes and the Canes had two bogus goals (seriously - not that I am biased or anything). Backs (and Fed) made some pivotal passes and Ovie got 61. If the Caps keep playing like this, they will keep winning, but they will do so in regulation ... they can make it and they will if they continue to bring it for a full 60 minutes. BTW, Kozie's SO goal was a thing of beauty. As much as I love Ovie and his ability to make crazy goals, I don't know why he keeps making the SO line up - the SO is not his friend. At least Huet is a SO monster (although I heard him say he used to struggle with it - could have fooled me!). And that's all I have to say about that.

I thought it was funny that the fans were chanting "ref you suck" after getting the gimme goal. They also have a horn guy now?

Thieves.

Boo: One of your earlier posts reminded me of something we were taught in culinary school years ago. There are five stages of cooking nuts -- not done, not done, not done, not done, burnt.

Boo!

Yeah. I went from 52 to 51. They go backwards after awhile.

I think the whole reason AO is in the SO is because he's the big draw. My guess, but I agree. He needs something else. What he brought to the NHL in the first year was unique. Eveyone's seen it, and now he's being copied (did you notice that?), so the goalies are expecting something specific from him. Basically, he's become predictable on SO.

I've turned around 180 degrees on Koz since the beginning of the season. He's really playing great. Kudos to him!

Did they play the full 60? That's something to work on for next year! I hate these 10-20 minute games they play!

@Greg S

They played 60+5 minutes. Watch the recap, you're not going to believe the Canes goals.

@Boo!
Boy, can't wait to hear Greenie's report!!

I was thinking the same thing!

@Yo
People are entitled to their opinions, chill, let's respect each other. Honestly, your view of Semin is a bit extreme - and one that I don't share at all.

Anyway, let's enjoy this win. We didn't gain on any playoffs contenders, but tonight the Caps played big when it counted. They never let up, even after those two discouraging lousy goals by the Canes/refs. Promising for the remaining 5 games.

@uncatim

THAT's funny!!!

And Thanks, I guess, Boo! for the b'day wishes.

I like Rod Stewart's song sentiments..."forever young." It's all between the ears anyway. OK, not all. Things like knees don't work like they used to.

@Greg S

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday Greg!!

Greg:
You are a wise man ... how about this:
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY OF YOUR 39TH BIRTHDAY!!! (And you are not required to tell people which anniversary it is!! ;-)).

I thought they played a full 60. Carolina turned up the heat at the end, but our boys stayed in there. All in all a decent showing by our beloved Caps.

uncatim:
Yup, I found the 5th stage ... :-P

alright, just got back from the game and man did the caps own that game. It is funny though, after all that, the canes fans thought the refs cost them the game. Guess they forgot to see all the missed calls that the refs let go against them.

One thing i like about living down here though is that no other hockey area can touch the tail gate down here for hockey games.

Alright caps, lets win the next 5 and make the play-offs so I have a reason to come back up to DC for a couple games

@Mike

What calls are they complaining about?

As a former southerner (I guess I still am, kind of) and Canes fan (sorry!), I'll say that we know how to tailgate because we practice at football and baseball games during the off-season and between hockey games...

Let me clarify that I'm a former southerner and former Canes fan...

Caps all the way!

I advocate having no refs @ all during Caps games. That was ludicrous tonite ...again.

I want to boycott the NHL again,
took me 4 years to come back & watch my beluved Caps after the lockout.

but here is the clutch & grab thuggery again.

Had to work tonight, so I just finished watching the game on TiVo. Fortunately, I did manage to avoid learning the score until I saw it.

By the way, the best thing about watching a game on TiVo is that you can fast forward through the long, stupid pauses as the linesman refuses to DROP THE FRIGGIN' PUCK.

Anyway, the Caps deserved to win; Carolina's goals can only be described as Jack and sh-t. But that should give our boys confidence going forward because the so-called best team in the Southeast couldn't even put one real goal on the board at home.

Watch out for Tampa.. they crushed Florida's hopes tonight so they have to be considered dangerous.

Oneal

THE HORROR:

Whether 7th or 8th, the Caps could face the Pens in the 1st round if the get in to the playoffs.

That really pains me. I hate the Pens, but they have our number. I'm just not ready to start that crap up again. I just don't wanna do it. sigh.

Good morning Caps fans. Boy did we need that win last night. I was pretty hard on Viktor at the beginning of the year, but the big blonde Russian is making a convert out of me.

I am so glad that Tampa decided to get a win finally last night. Now they have that out of their system. I always liked Jeff Halpern, but I hope he gets all nervous and jittery on Thursday.

I know it is like beating a dead horse, but I really hope Laing gets a sweater over #43 (wont call him that other name until he plays up to it again). I hope #43 is next year's Green, but at this critical point in the season we need players that have proven impact on an aspect of the game. I will take PK prowess over some day he may actually hold onto a puck, pass effectively, or finish a play anytime. Especially since the refs keep putting our boys in the box.

Has anyone else seen the VW commercial where the guy is messing with a couple looking at a car by remote beeping the horn? Well, it led to another priceless kids moment at my house.

The horn goes honk, honk, honk, and my eight year old goes "Let's Go Caps!" She thought it was one of those Comcast Caps commercials.

Oneal:
I love watching games on my DVR for the same reason ... only problem is that you can't be in here real-time! ;-)

I know what you mean about Tampa ... they could take us by surprise. The Canes are tough and FLA has always been a thorn in our side ... our remaining 5 will not be easy! I looked at the Canes schedule and, while it is not much different, I would say it is easier - they've got Atlanta in mix. I hope the Caps keep winning but, even if they do, it is not a sure bet - someone ahead of us really needs to slip.

007:
I'm not too worried about that - we almost had 'em last time (that mistake won't happen again), and they seem to be struggling a bit (plus Crosby is not 100%). Regardless, we'll cross that bridge when we get to it! ;-)

Speaking of horns, did our Horn Guy make the trip to Carolina or do they have their own horn guy now?

Anyone know if video of last year's into to the Caps games is available somewhere? I was looking for the one where they are all coming off of the elevator with Rob Zombie music in the background.

Kim:
I agree - I feel like a broken record, but I'd take Laing over Flash-in-the-pan ANY day. FREE LAING!!!

Kim:
Check out www.nhl.tv and go to the Caps portal - they have most of the Caps videos/commercials there.

#43 is invisible.

@Boo,

Does Greg S's birthday trump skating and soccer as a reason to not be able to watch the game?

Steve:

1. Skating
2. Playing Hockey
3. Birthday
4. Ethics Class
5. Soccer

;-)

So did you at least win?!?

@Boo!

You're such an instigator! lol

1. Playing hockey
2. Bachelor Party
3. Soccer
4. Ethics Class
5. Birthday Party
*somewhere double digits* Laundry
*somewhere double digits+1* Skating

Here are Boston's and Philly's remaining games:

Bos:
Tor
Ott
@Buff
@NJ
@Ott
Buff

Philly:
@NJ
@NYI
@Pitt
NJ
Pitt

Please, Please NJ get your &%@% together and beat these swine.

@Boo,

Nope, got our butts kicked. We were light on players so they ran us into the ground. Highlight of the game was the shot I took from knife fighting range that hit their goalie square in the face. Had a mirror immage of the addidas logo on his forehead after that.

I think Mauree's list is about right, but I'd drop playing hockey down as I skate like Happy Gilmore.

For those that went to the Front Page to watch the game, how was it? Is it a good place to watch the game? Do they have a big screen and show the HD telecast?

Kim-

Your eight-year-old is a better caps fan than I am. Truly admirable work you've done to spread the game to the young'ins.

I'm done with Flash for this season. He has shown me absolutely NO ability to understand the game he is playing and what he has to do to be productive. He's taking low-percentage shots, and getting knocked off the puck worse than Semin in ATL.

I'm willing to give him another chance next year, but I feel much better now that I can direct my "Semin-Ire" at someone else, rather than 28's defensive liabilities.

Hey Greenie is that you in the highlights on CapsTV?
SHANANIGANS!!!!!!!!!!!!! BS 2nd goal by the Canes, officiating was at best a joke most of the night, but we got the 5 on 3 so it had its moments for us as well.

Yeah Greenie give us a report!!

Yo

I'll step in where 828 went to sleep.

I have been a very vocal critic of Semin. I believe he (and AO) are defensive liabilities when they are on the ice and BB needs to adjust his defensive pairings based on those two. It hurts me to watch Semin toe-drag into the zone and get clobbered off the puck or just plain lose it behind him while our D is on a line change. It's a big problem.

For this season, though, I'm willing to give Semin a pass. He has played on the opposite side from his natural position for most of the season. While we would all like him to be AO, he clearly is not and never will be. But he is a great #2 scoring line guy provided we can give him some consistency.

This season, he has planed alongside the following C's:
Backstrom, Gordon, Kozlov, Nylander, Fedorov, Laich.

AO has had the following C's:
Nylander, Backstrom, Kozlov

Semin has played with the following Wingers:
AO, Kozlov, Laich, Fehr, Flash, Cooke, Clark, Pettinger.

AO's Wingers:
Semin, Kozlov, Clark (Maybe Flash a game or two?)

I can't blame Semin for not knowing where the hell his teammates are at times, let alone who the hell he's playing with on a nightly basis.

If this team can stay healthy next year, and give Semin a Nyls/Clark or Nyls/Kozy combo every night, I can guarantee you he won't be -20 and under 30 goals.

Couple of observations- The Cane's first goal was as flukie as they come but point is they never should have had the opportunity. At 5 on 5 preceeding the Semin penalty ( our sencond line was on the ice) we let Carolina control the puck like it was a power play. Reminded me of last seconds of Pitt game when Backstrom knocked in the puck.

Not to beat a dead horse, but #43 is worse than useless- he is a huge weakness. He never wins a battle along the boards, rarely makes a good pass, and never finishes. Got to put someone else in there. At least Bruce got smart- Flash only played about 10 minutes.

Also, Nylander's absence is felt more and more ( yes, I know we have won 6 of 7) but we are hardly getting any equal ice production from any other than the first line. Federov is really good defensively and is good on face offs but he has obviously lost speed and is not the passer Nylander is. We have too much dead wood out there as far as scoring goes. This can come back to haunt us.

Last, we've got to ride Huet now. Obviously, just an opinion but I don't think we win last night if Huet didn't play. He made some gloves saves that Kolzig hasn't been making and has played great in the shootouts. Got togo with him the rest of the way.

No let down,boys, agianst Tampa! We were focused on Carolina- that game is over. Move on.

Apologies that the Leafs reverted back to their normal form (old, slow, and stupid) against Boston. Hopefully they can be the proverbial t*rd in the punchbowl tonight.

In watching highlights, noone could understand how the second Carolina goal was allowed to stand when the NJ goal under the same instance wasn't. Essentially the same play, yet two different calls. Inexcusable.

Patrick

leafs were also without sundin and antropov. I don't know if anyone here thinks they could beat a single team in the league without those two.

Good Morning to the best fans in the NHL hockey world! (Good thing you don't have to hear my voice that hasn't yet recovered from the taunting and screaming I did last night!)
Okay, let me first start by saying you truly missed the best game of the season, by far! For those of you who missed it...
-The refs were pathetic - they missed more calls than I have ever seen on both sides of the puck, but at least they let them play!
-Ovechkin was a beast last night, he was flying and throwing hits like I have never seen before! ( And his goal - totally Awesome, he should have had a hat trick last night!!)
-Kozie is worth every penny we pay him - he deserves a raise after last night. The man can close his eyes on the ice and still thread the needle, the guy is totally sick and unbelievable on the ice - his passes get through places they shouldn't! Man- he is my total hero!!!!
-Semin redeemed himself a little - even though he makes stupid decisions, no lie the guy can put the puck in the net!
-Flash is about as worthless right now as anyone on the ice. If you can't take a hit then get off the ice, needs to work on his balance and upper body, he is WEAK(maybe next year)!!!
-Feds is as good if not better than Kozie and anyone who thinks he is not worth the money, you better watch the game last night again, he is the most responsible player I have ever seen offensively and defensively, he never quits and if he can't take the body, he takes the stick! Wow very impressive night for him!!!
-Of course, Huet was big last night! Can't say enough about him being in great position all night! He was square to the shooter and focused - have to say he was the best player last night!
-Carolina got 2 cheap goals because for the first time all season our "D" showed up and took EVERY body going to the net - that is how you play defense!!! Finally, they banged some bodies!
-Eminger looked a bit tentative at first, but played an excellent game as did Poti!

***Now for the Carolina Fans - I read them JSchon's prayer before the game! They threw popcorn and trash at me and told me to watch my back! When Hamilton scored the first goal they were in my face big time, but when Semin scored no-one had anything to say and then when Ovie scored, I spilled my "Good Beer" on myself, I was so happy, I stood on my chair and danced in the isle! They all booed me and laughed because it looked like I wet myself!!(It was pretty funny)- I was lucky the fans were pretty nice and they all knew that on last night
THE CAPS OWNED THEM!!!!!!(They were lucky to get a point!)
Wow - one of the best nights of my life ever!!!!

@MadFlava and anyone else interested

I was at Front Page last night. It was great. 2 viewing areas. One had a very large flat screen and 2 small flats in the bar. I was switching in between both the bar TV's and the big screen because of my bar seat. The volume was up real loud. Crowd was about 50 people strong. There were chants and I was sitting next to the caped guy, who is a fan of note I think.

Melissa the bartender is very attractive and always keeps the beers flowing.

Slapshot made an appearance and passed out stress hockey pucks. The owners of FP are huge hockey fans and passed out Capital pint glasses to everyone I think.

Lots of high-fives, groans, oooohhhs and aaaaahhhhs.

There wull be another viewing party tomorrow. $2.50 bud light drafts and half price appetizers during the game.

Good times.

Joe B said "Toronto" apparently had a view where they could see the puck cross the line...i've seen many replays and still can't see it. Cole was already crashing into Huet when Morrison hit him...should have been an interference penalty and an end to their powerplay. Are we just paying more attention to the refs bc we're so close to the playoffs or are they really just screwing us every way possible lately? Either way the refereeing is terrible and Bettman's response on XM was pathetic, he considered all those calls against boston good calls and the non calls against teh Bs in that game as "okay".
things i hate:
1)pittsburgh (towels, sindy, filth, et al.)
2)nhl officiating (esp. mcCreary)
3)bettman

@Pat

I agree and let me add to your list.

4) 3 point games
5) secondary assists
6) Flash

JSchon - You almost have me sold. So the game volume was on and there was no music playing in the place?

I might have to make an appearance tomorrow night.

JSchon: is that front page ballston? sounds like a good time!

Greenie: were there other caps fans there? couldn't really hear em on tv

@Pat
I was there last night, it was a bad call -
no doubt, but what can you do, the only positive out of it was Morrison hit someone really hard with Poti in pursuit as well, Think Positive here and I will sum it up quickly!

The CAPS finally played as a team and they were playing for each other last night - I haven't seen it all season the way it was last night, seems they are challenging each other to take responsibility, it might have something to do with FEDS now being here, but it was nice to see, they didn't let the refs steal their GAME!!!
Be happy, today is a new beginning!!

re: Front Page

Times like these, I really miss being in DC.

@ Greenie

Great report and way to fight for us fans.

@ Pat

Expected that bettman would stick up for his refs. I heard Joe say the same thing and as he said, we will have to take Toronto at their word that they had a shot that showed the puck went over. Whatever!
I still think it was an assumption on their part.

As for the refs, in an unbiased position, I would say they equally missed calls on both sides. We did get a 5 on 3. I did not think the hooking on Green was that big of a penalty and probably should not have been called. If a slight hook on the hand can spin the player around and make him fall, then that is a bit questionable. I do not think this was the worst officiated game.

The Canes getting two flukey calls though does show how strong we played and I hope is a bigger springboard into the last 5 games. If they play like this the last 5, nobody will beat us.

re: Front Page

Times like these, I really miss being in DC.

@ Greenie

Great report and way to fight for us fans.

@ Pat

Expected that bettman would stick up for his refs. I heard Joe say the same thing and as he said, we will have to take Toronto at their word that they had a shot that showed the puck went over. Whatever!
I still think it was an assumption on their part.

As for the refs, in an unbiased position, I would say they equally missed calls on both sides. We did get a 5 on 3. I did not think the hooking on Green was that big of a penalty and probably should not have been called. If a slight hook on the hand can spin the player around and make him fall, then that is a bit questionable. I do not think this was the worst officiated game.

The Canes getting two flukey goals though does show how strong we played and I hope is a bigger springboard into the last 5 games. If they play like this the last 5, nobody will beat us.

@Pat
Not many CAPS fans at all - Me and about 20 other crazy people!! It was sold-out and it was loud for the CANDY CANES! But there was some cheering for Ovechkin's goal! Wish you all were there!!!!

Good win, we SHOULD have won in regulation but I'll take the 2 points.

Can we pleas get some help with Filthadelphia and The Poo(h) Bears

@Jill & Pat and all who can get to the FP tomorrow night...

No music was played, although a little Journey wouldn't have been bad. Just Joe B and Laughlin. Everyone should try to make it out FP tomorrow night.

Yes, it is the FP in Ballston, not DuPont.

Yeah, it's great and all, but does anyone else find it strange that there's a commemorative t-shirt for Alex's 61st goal when the season's not even out yet?

http://shop.nhl.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3063955&cp=1920318

@JSchon - thanks for the prayer - It was the talk of the Candy Cane Fans - well done! They loved it! Wouldn't be surprised to see a couple of posts from their fans as I invited them to join in today!!! Told them we were the best FANS ever!!!

In all seriousness, does ANYONE have a digital copy of "Ice Breakers, Goal Shakers?" I'll pay you for it.

FFS Enough - agree.

I just don't understand why people are trying to point out a scapegoat. It's been Semin when he was injured - Olie, Flash... but someone said yesterday, you can point your finger at any Capital on why the Caps are not higher in the standings. Every single Capital has made a mistake or has made constant mistakes. They are all young and will continue to make mistakes until they mature.

Semin sucks and we are on the verge of making the playoffs? The Caps are the most dangerous team in hockey right now and I can guarantee Semin is one of those reasons why the Caps are so dangerous.

Like I said last night - relax and enjoy the win.

@Greenie

I missed my calling. I need to start a religious sect. (I havent been to church on a regular basis since dating some chick from Philly, she was a b!tch)

Glad you came away alive Greenie. I need to figure out tomorrow's sermon, errrr, I mean message for the TB game.

@ 828 - No matter what you say, I still have big problems with Semin.

The officiating in the NHL is getting and worse. Last night's game is a perfect example.

I hope the boys continue to play hard.

The officiating in the NHL is getting worse. Last night's game is a perfect example.

I hope the boys continue to play hard.

Almost at 400

400th!

Every team has a handful of players that bloggers love to hate and have issues with. I have been on numerous blog sites and it goes without saying, every team has their Semin, Olie and Flash.

Poor Semin, he will always be the other Alex, the other Russian, the other left winger. His problem is completely mental. He needs get over the fact that he isnt as good as OV. Unfortunately he might have to realize that on another team.

He plays 18 minutes a game, all I want is 9 good, mentally sound minutes from him. He is still young and trying to figure it out. Luckily his mistakes arent killing us.

Hey Greenie, was that you on the CapsTV recap?

I still question this "extra camera" that the NHL used to call the second canes goal.

Why would the NHL have cameras in an arena that aren't being used for TV coverage?

It seems very fishy.

Giuliana DePandi!

I do believe all arenas have an overhead cam that looks down on each goal for review. I may be mistaken.....also never seen so many posts to one thread...the excitement level is high. so many possiblities.

I was debating on posting to your website, but since I met an awesome person and a knowledgeable Capitals fan last night (Greenie), I thought it would be nice to join your blog for a few moments.
It took me all morning to process your comments - My you have a tough blog board!
My comment of concern to address is that it seems Alex Semin is taking a beating; Every team has their problems, but I would like to have yours!
Let's say for a minute we have a problem like Semin, his name is Trevor Letowski, two major differences and pay attention - Trevor is 30 years of age, has 7 goals and 6 assists with a +/- of 13 - he kills us, at least your Semin is "Young" and has the ability to mature not to mention (22 goals) - Trevor does not!
Just for the note - Great Game last night it was a lot of fun and Greenie is a neat person, (not to mention that she is good looking and wouldn't marry me last night!)
She loves hockey and represented your team very well.
One last thing before I go, whoever wrote the prayer that she presented aloud before the game to our entire section, that was one of the best pieces I've heard!
Nice to see hockey fans as passionate for DC as Greenie an your bloggers! I might have to be an Ovechkin fan after last nights show, but only because of Greenie!
Hope you all enjoy your win and we will see you in DC on the 1st of April - Catch Us if you CAN............Bob!

"Hey Washington, the news today..."

@ Paul

I like the idea of just calling him #43... he doesn't even deserve a nickname; and we don't deserve to have to type his full name.

I make a board motion to only refer to the bum as #43.

@ keef

yes, definitely... so when he scores 62 tomorrow... that shirt won't make any sense... cause the new team record will then be 62. poor play by the caps.

Mauree:
Boo Hiss!!! :-P Hey, at least when I skate I am on an ice rink!! And no, I am not an instigator - that title is reserved for Sir Instigator Leeguru!!

Steve:
LOL!! Poor goalie ... but hey, it worked wonders for Olie!! So ... was it worth it?!? Hopefully this little experience will help you to get your priorities straght next time!! ;-)

Greenie:
You battled well, my friend ... well indeed. Thanks for sharing and for being an uber fan!! :-D

The Caps played a solid game last night - glad we got the 2 points despite everything! Next meeting with the Canes will be a home game so that should work in our favor having a little more control over the matchups. The first goal that was scored came on a penalty after Semins line could not get it out of the zone. They were tired and personally I would not have Semins line out there in the last minute of play if I could help it. He's a great offensive talent... but that line is sometimes a bit of a liability in their own end.

Lets all hope TO will want some revenge on the B's.

@JSchon, re: Semin

You hit it on the head...Semin's problem is that he tries too hard to outshine Ovie. He has a lot of talent, but he is always pressing too hard to make a flashy move and prove himself, and half the time all he does is outsmart himself. He needs the coaching staff to hammer "keep it simple, stupid" into his head until he can just relax and be Alex SEMIN, the second-line, 40- (or maybe even 50-)goal scorer.

Hello