Managed to stay up and watch this. Much more physical game than I expected. I did actually see Mantha go after and hit a guy.
Goalie (and his posts) stole this one. We played as well as they did and took a bunch more shots, but ultimately we made the Sharks look like a good team and that's a bad sign. Our PP is pathetic, but we did beat the goalie multiple times, the puck just wouldn't go in.
I knew we were in trouble before the game when talking heads kept droning on about how we've dominated the Sharks in recent history and haven't lost in their building...blah blah blah
I expect it will be a mediocre road trip, but then what would you expect from a mediocre team? The Caps just aren't that good. We all knew it before the season started and the recent success was the Caps honestly playing above their level, and getting some bounces or breaks they were overdue for.
We have a team of aging superstars past their prime, good but not great goaltending, some young unproven talent, and a new coach. I dont think that adds up to a Cup contender.
I like the new coach, but not sure this team has the speed and stamina for his type of game.
Sooner or later the PP will get some goals just from the law of averages and that will help win a few games. There are plenty of mediocre teams for us to win half our games. We might even win a coach's challenge one day.
Oh, but hay - not to worry, the next several games should be a breeze vs Kings, Ducks, Knights, Coyotes, Stars, Rangers.... The Ducks are the only team in the next 6 with a losing record and they have lost 6 in a row so Im sure we can help them break that streak
