R1G3 Caps vs Rangers @ 7pm

[BlackIce]

We aren't alone in our misery.  Three of the four East Conference series are 3-0.  And after all, the Rangers/Caps series WAS the most lopsided-looking series coming in.


The Caps are an elite NHL team in one way only:  Competitive integrity.  They actually found a way for this group of players to sneak into the playoffs despite having one of the least talented rosters in the league.  And their reward??  Draft picks buried in the middle of the NHL pack.  There is no obvious way for the franchise to escape mediocrity or worse for several years, at least.  Even a couple of bonafide stars probably wouldn't be enough to lift this franchise to be a Stanley Cup contender.

[alta]

The only way the Caps were going to be contenders in the draft lottery was to lose more than %50 of their games since thanksgiving. And, the draft lottery is no guarantee of anything. It is extremely rare that a 1st round pick makes a difference in the first three years of their career. I think our perception has been skewed by a few select players. I can count five off the top of my head since Ovechkin was drafted, 18 years ago.

Team management needs to have a come to Jesus moment to see the reality they are dealing with. Such religious moments are rarer than 1st round picks making an immediate impact on a team.

[Mickstix]

You need to pick top 3 for a season 1 difference maker. Not sure we'll ever be bad enough to do that? We always stay just competitive enough to draft mid pack. I do know, I'd go with the biggest fastest player available when we do pick. Hopefully teach him whatever else he needs, but speed and some size is something you can't teach. And as slow as we are, we'll never be a "contender".
 
I'd be looking for a buyer for Protas now. He's gonna end up a 4th liner getting paid as a 2-3.  Can't wait to see what they give McMike in the offseaon. It better not be over 3.5/4 (if that). I know he's young, but guys with the "it" factor show it. He's a guy, but not THE guy. Same with Miroshnichenko.. Looks decent but nothing special, unfortunately.


Once again, we'll be pretty decent from the 2-4 lines, but lack difference makers on the top Forward line and top D pair. Need a couple/few superstars in those spots. As usual..