The season is fast approaching, and as the Blue Jackets prepare for another strong performance in 2013-2014, they look ahead to new opponents with a sense of caution. There are some teams who have had success, and teams who just haven’t hit their stride. And then there is the Washington Capitals. The team that has done everything except to get the chance to etch their name onto the Cup.
Every year, the Caps seem poised to contend with the best in the NHL. The success of their season typically depends on their, I dare say, enigmatic Captain, Alex Ovechkin. Typically, when Ovi is feeling it, the team rides a high into a healthy winning streak. But if he is struggling, whether it be with his play or relations with the coach, the team feels it. He really is their heart and soul.
November 23, 2011;Washington D.C., USA; Washington Capitals left wing Alexander Ovechkin (8) during the game against the Winnipeg Jets at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
After the Ilya Kovalchuk situation earlier this summer, there is much talk of the Russian stars leaving to play in their homeland, but Ovi and company insist they are here to stay, which is good news for the Caps.
The past several years have been more than frustrating in Washington, as Cup hopes often fall just short. Strong regular seasons lead to short-lived playoff berths, and each year the Finals just fall further and further away. Hopes are high for this season, however, and a rejuvenated Caps team looks to gain some ground in their quest for the Stanley Cup.
In mid-season of lockout-shortened 2013, the Capitals were falling back from division leaders Carolina, but one win in Raleigh sparked a trainwreck for the Canes, and opened the door for the Capitals to swipe the division title away from the Canes. The strong finish for the Caps bodes very well for the upcoming season, despite their failures in the Playoffs yet again.
So, given the promise and determination shown, how can the Capitals be defeated by Columbus?
December 31, 2011; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets center Derick Brassard (16) splits Washington Capitals defenseman Roman Hamrlik (44) and left wing Matt Hendricks (26)during the second period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports
Well, as said before, Ovechkin is the heart and soul of the Caps, and everything really runs through him. Which means if we can get him off his game, the team suffers. Get under his skin, and we can give ourselves an easy advantage. Obviously we don’t want to throw cheapshots, but if we just let him know he isn’t welcome on our side of the ice, I’m sure his ego will despise the refusal of space.
May 13, 2013; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) and Capitals center Mike Ribeiro (9) sit on the bench during a stoppage in play against the New York Rangers in the second period in game seven of the first round of the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Another way to get through or around the Caps is to strike early and often. Goals are great, but those aren’t exactly under our control. No, quick shots, heavy hits, won races, and crisp passes can just as easily break any team. Catch them flatfooted, and they are defenseless. In a nutshell, grab the game early, and dictate the pace for the next 60 minutes.
So let’s say the Jackets and Caps meet 6 times next season. Who’s to say we don’t just find success in the first game and the Caps fight back with a vengeance? No one can guarantee anything, especially not me, but in my opinion, if we break them in game one and fight harder in each game after, I don’t think the Caps will have to resolve to really fight back. Of course, that is just my opinion, and I have been wrong many a time before.
In summary, the Caps definitely show some promise for this season, but it does a team well to hit the ground running against such a team. Come out fast and feisty, and you will find success. I am interested to hear your opinions on the Capitals, so you know what to do.