The last time that "Flames" were introduced to the "Capital".
I know there aren't a lot of Americans or American residents on this site, but for those who are, PLEASE, for the love of god, go vote. Also, try to be somewhat informed before you vote, because a random vote isn't a vote at all. People often get the government they deserve. Ok, moving on…
The Flames had a tough loss against the Caps as they played a solid game, but couldn't break down Barry Trotz's defensive system. My how things have changed since that game. The Caps are in the midst of a 4 game losing streak, allowing 4 or more goals in each game. Another disturbing trend is the blowing of leads, as 6 of the 7 losses this year have come after blowing a lead in the second period. The consensus seems to be that the Capitals are playing a solid game, then have a mental breakdown that leads to a great chance against…and they're all going in. The goaltenders just haven't given them the big save they've needed to recover from the mistake. The Caps can still score, and score in bunches with a GF/G of 3.09, but the miscues, defensive breakdowns, and shoddy goaltending has raised their GA/G to 2.82.
The Flames have taken off after that loss to Washington, playing some of their best hockey of the year. A hard fought and ill-deserved shootout loss to the Canadiens, then a solid win against the Predators, followed by a dominant blow-out win against the same Canadiens team that stole 2 points from the Flames. The Flames have scored 10 goals in the past 2 games, largely due to the play of guys like Gaudreau and Brodie driving the offensive play, but others have joined the party in the last 2 games like Monahan (3 pts) and Glencross (3 pts). Hudler, Granlund, and Jooris have also contributed to the offense. It's a great time for the offense to break out with all the key forwards on the shelf. I think most saw the Flames falling apart with the injuries, but the call ups have been just as good, if not better than the guys they replaced. Experience is still lacking down the middle, but Monahan has really stepped up his play as the #1 center, doing his best to shut down the opposition and add offense. Granlund has looked like a veteran out there and Bouma has done well in his 4th line role. The only struggles have come from Byron, who is much better suited at winger. You have to wonder if they are just waiting for Colborne to return rather than calling up another center. FYI, Colborne is skating with the team on the road trip, meaning his absence may not be for long, even though he is on IR.
The Flames inexperience at center may be exposed tonight with the high powered Caps offense, but hopefully they capitalize (pun intended) on their chances the way other teams have.
*fun fact: Alex Ovechkin's next point will make him the all-time franchise leader in points. He is currently tied with Peter Bondra for 1st.
Flames
Glencross-Monahan-Jones
Gaudreau-Granlund-Hudler
Baertschi-Byron-Jooris
Bollig-Bouma-Setoguchi
Giordano-Brodie
Russell-Wideman
Smid-Engelland
Hiller
Capitals
Ovechkin-Backstrom-Ward
Johansson-Kuznetsov-Brouwer
Chimera-Burakovsky-Fehr
Wilson-Latta-Beagle
Orpik-Carlson
Alzner-Niskanen
Schmidt-Green
Holtby
Go Flames Go!