So Caps were better in both home games and were worse in away games. Series tied now. Pretty fair.
G4 was more defensive by both teams and the scoring chances were rare. The lack of Wilson and poor offensive depth were clearly visible. Some of it is on Trotz surely. Some is on players.
Did anyone expect Wilsonaless Caps will cruise through Pens to get the 3rd win easily? I did not. Pens rallied and won.
But defensively yesterday could be a best game for Caps so far. Limited Pens most of the game. I liked that. Keep that and tweak offensive plan for G5 with the last change. Win G5. And it's all OK.
Personnel wise I dont know. Oshie is still not the player he was last season. Bottom-6 guys are worse than Bura was before his injury. What a pity.
Maybe it's time to split 8 and 92 to make Pens hands full.
Stephenson-Backstrom-Oshie (would like to save one line to stability purposes, also proved to be effective against Crosby)
Vrana-Kuznetsov-Connolly
Ovechkin-Eller-DSP
Boyd-Beagle-Chiasson
We could use Bura right now... And Wilson.
PS: Notes to self: Beagle needs to be signed again (for cheaper). Wilson will cost much more next season. Vrana is not top-6 ready still (not a huge problem atm). Gersich... well, I said he's not ready after his 1st period. You guys were offensive