Sadly, these two points would have been huge as Hens lost and it was a 4 pt difference with the Rags. Instead of closing on both, we just dropped further back.
We gonna coast into playoffs in last WC spot, playing mediocre hockey the rest of the way. And then get completely outplayed and blown out by Florida. I don't see the Caps really being able to compete with any of the top tier teams. Florida, Carolina, even Tampa Bay or Toronto.
We have at best, a serviceable goalie...(depending on IF he shows up), weak D, weak team D, No PP whatsoever, average PK, old guys all around.
None of this adds up to much success. We have some great scoring talent, but it's old and slow talent, and that doesn't win enough games, and even fewer in the playoffs.
I don't know what the solution is. I don't see management moving the pieces that would have to be moved in order to have an impact. I really do not see them moving Backy. Maybe they'd move Oshie, but at what cost as far as picks to go so a team would take his contract. Carlson probably has the most worth as far as trade value, but I think they missed the big payoff window for that couple/several years ago, and also think he's here for the duration.
I'd like to see the whole team play with Sheary's effort. He seems to lift whatever line he is on, and is always in the play. Too bad for him he's not 6'-2.
And the goalie position is a glaring problem. Sammy has had plenty of opportunity to shine, but he's on his game only about half the time. At this point, I'm more comfortable with Vanny....just wish he'd seize the reins and become "Van the Man" but....no.
I didn't have real big asperations for this team this year, and the injuries this year certainly haven't helped, but all the fears of weaknesses we KNEW we had at the start of the season have come to fruition.
Still a bummer though. It's nice to hope/dream your team can win
