I watched the game...had a day off and ready for hockey, so....
I mean it's like what 2-3 days into camp so I didn't really expect much. For pre-season the team is required to dress 8 vets so not surprised to see some of the younger "vets" like Milano, NAK, & Protas at all. Mantha - I think they are honestly trying to evaluate, but he looked pretty good to me. He really needs to have a good season in order for the Caps to have success.
Boys looked okay. Lots of youngins, Shephard looked pretty good in goal...second guy...not as much.
With this roster, I don't have my hopes on another Cup, but would like to see the boys compete.
Strome looked good, Cookie (Milano) looked good, and Mantha looked pretty good. Nice to see Milano score and Strome hit at least 2 posts. I think the faster guys will look better in Carberry's system. Willy should fit in well with faster game, but curious as to what line he lands on.
I could see Willy and Kuzy together, and I could see Strome and Milano together if he can keep scoring and Mantha would fit if you could actually do something. If he would live up to his potential I could see a Strome/Milano/Mantha line working well.
Fever looked really good on D - he has some serious wheels. He will fit with Carbery's move up the ice system. McIlrath certainly made his presence known (and felt) but he's a AHL guy for sure.
A lot will depend on how well Nicky can play, and which Kuzy (will the real Kuzy please show up, please show up) Yes this is an older roster, but the guys can still play. Health will make a difference, and we need the younger guys to contribute for sure.
I see the older guys getting less minutes than last year under Carbery. He wants a fast game, and that's not really Ovie/Backy/Oshie game anymore.
Goaltending will need to be better than last year as well.
If last year is the benchmark by which we measure, than I expect this year will be an improvement. (not that that's saying much)