Capitals Insider - Katie Carrera on everything Washington Capitals.

Posted at 09:30 AM ET, 04/30/2012

Karl Alzner: Capitals ‘had a tough time playing against our own style’

By Katie Carrera

Washington found itself flustered by New York at times in Game 1, and falling back into its old regular season habits.

By Katie Carrera | 09:30 AM ET, 04/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:00 AM ET, 04/30/2012

Ovechkin on ‘bad decisions’ and being better against the Rangers

By Post Sports Editors

The Capitals’ captain says he knows what he needs to do differently in Game 2 against the Rangers.

By Post Sports Editors | 08:00 AM ET, 04/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:29 PM ET, 04/29/2012

Jay Beagle’s playoff diary: Putting Game 1 behind them, Central Park and dinner plans

By Jay Beagle

The Capitals center talks about the series-opening loss to the Rangers and looks ahead to Monday’s Game 2.

By Jay Beagle | 06:29 PM ET, 04/29/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Playoff diary

Posted at 04:49 PM ET, 04/29/2012

Capitals self-critical over lack of intensity in Game 1

By Katie Carrera

The Capitals are critical of themselves for not playing with enough desperation in the series opener against New York.

By Katie Carrera | 04:49 PM ET, 04/29/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:25 PM ET, 04/29/2012

Braden Holtby’s play in Game 1 puts Caps in a predicament

By Neil Greenberg

The rookie goalie was anything but good in Game 1, stopping just 11 of 14 shots in a 3-1 loss, which will make emerging from this round a lot tougher than it otherwise might be.

By Neil Greenberg | 01:25 PM ET, 04/29/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Stats

Posted at 01:03 PM ET, 04/29/2012

Dale Hunter on Alexander Semin’s penalties: ‘You have to be smart on the ice’

By Katie Carrera

While it’s unclear if Alexander Semin’s demotion is more than a practice message to the winger, Coach Dale Hunter made it clear that he cannot be taking retaliatory penalties.

By Katie Carrera | 01:03 PM ET, 04/29/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:16 AM ET, 04/29/2012

Alexander Semin demoted to fourth line for practice

By Katie Carrera

Alexander Semin dropped to the fourth line for Sunday’s practice as Coach Dale Hunter adjusts his lineup.

By Katie Carrera | 11:16 AM ET, 04/29/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:41 AM ET, 04/29/2012

Mistakes pile up for Caps, result in goal for Rangers’ Chris Kreider

By Katie Carrera

Errors pile up on one shift for Washington and result in a game-altering goal for Rangers rookie Chris Kreider.

By Katie Carrera | 10:41 AM ET, 04/29/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:40 PM ET, 04/28/2012

Braden Holtby: ‘I had a tough time getting into the game’

By Katie Carrera

Braden Holtby allowed three goals on 14 shots as Washington fell, 3-1, in Game 1 against the Rangers.

By Katie Carrera | 08:40 PM ET, 04/28/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:47 PM ET, 04/28/2012

Game 1: Rangers score twice in 90 seconds to fuel 3-1 win over Capitals in series opener

By Lindsay Applebaum

The Rangers score twice in 90 seconds to fuel a 3-1 win over the Capitals in the opener of their Eastern Conference semifinal series.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 02:47 PM ET, 04/28/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:06 PM ET, 04/28/2012

Braden Holtby unflinching as Capitals enter second round

By Katie Carrera

The rookie Caps netminder is unflinching as his team enters the second round of the playoffs.

By Katie Carrera | 12:06 PM ET, 04/28/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:59 AM ET, 04/28/2012

Henrik Lundqvist on Caps: ‘We really want to beat this team’

By Katie Carrera

History may not mean much when considering current playoff series, but it can definitely offer a source of motivation — to the Rangers.

By Katie Carrera | 10:59 AM ET, 04/28/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:48 PM ET, 04/27/2012

Jay Beagle’s playoff diary: Happy for Wardo; back to business

By Jay Beagle

The Caps center talks about Joel Ward’s series-clinching goal in Boston and looks ahead to the second round.

By Jay Beagle | 06:48 PM ET, 04/27/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:32 PM ET, 04/27/2012

Key matchups for Capitals-Rangers

By Katie Carrera

The Caps encounter a familiar playoff opponent in the Rangers, a team they are facing for a third time in four years. Game 1 is Saturday at 3 p.m.

By Katie Carrera | 06:32 PM ET, 04/27/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:52 PM ET, 04/27/2012

Ovechkin on Joel Ward: ‘He’s right now Michael Jordan of hockey’

By Tarik El-Bashir

The Caps winger shrugs off the torrent of racist tweets that were directed at him Wednesday night after he scored the series-clinching goal in Boston.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 12:52 PM ET, 04/27/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:36 PM ET, 04/27/2012

History shows it could be boom or bust for Caps in second round

By Neil Greenberg

Since 1994, only a few seven seeds have made the conference finals and none has won the Stanley Cup.

By Neil Greenberg | 12:36 PM ET, 04/27/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:08 AM ET, 04/27/2012

Joel Ward arrives a hero at Friday’s practice

By Tarik El-Bashir

Joel Ward arrives a hero after Game 7 overtime goal.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 11:08 AM ET, 04/27/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:34 PM ET, 04/26/2012

Capitals will face Rangers in Eastern Conference semifinals starting Saturday (updated)

By Katie Carrera

Washington will face the Rangers, who advances past Ottawa with a win in Game 7, for the third time in four seasons.

By Katie Carrera | 09:34 PM ET, 04/26/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Categories: Capitals Insider

Posted at 01:43 PM ET, 04/26/2012

NHL playoffs: Capitals could face Rangers, Flyers or Devils in Round 2

By Katie Carrera

The Capitals are through to the second round where the Rangers, Flyers and Devils could each present different challenges.

By Katie Carrera | 01:43 PM ET, 04/26/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:24 AM ET, 04/26/2012

Ted Leonsis: ‘There’s a lot of work left to do’

By Katie Carrera

Capitals owner Ted Leonsis expressed his happiness with the first-round series victory over the Boston Bruins, but stressed that there is a lot more they want to achieve.

By Katie Carrera | 10:24 AM ET, 04/26/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Washington Capitals

Posted at 08:20 AM ET, 04/26/2012

Capitals’ role players ‘came to play’ against Boston

By Katie Carrera

With the top talents on both sides effectively canceling one another out, Dale Hunter said, it was up to the grinders to tip the balance.

By Katie Carrera | 08:20 AM ET, 04/26/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: washington capitals

Posted at 01:06 AM ET, 04/26/2012

George McPhee: Capitals ‘needed to win a series like this’

By Katie Carrera

General Manager George McPhee says the Capitals “needed to win a series like this.”

By Katie Carrera | 01:06 AM ET, 04/26/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:39 PM ET, 04/25/2012

Game 7: Joel Ward scores in overtime to lift Capitals over Bruins, 2-1, and into second round

By Lindsay Applebaum

Joel Ward scores in overtime to lift Capitals over defending Stanley Cup champion Boston and into the second round of the playoffs.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 05:39 PM ET, 04/25/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:32 PM ET, 04/25/2012

For Caps, it’s simple: Just shoot the puck

By Neil Greenberg

When the puck finally drops in Boston for Game 7 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals, the Capitals have a chance to win — if they start putting pucks on net.

By Neil Greenberg | 02:32 PM ET, 04/25/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:36 PM ET, 04/25/2012

Mike Green: Capitals are ‘confident and we’re going to do this’

By Katie Carrera

After two and a half days of buildup, the Capitals are ready for Game 7 to get going.

By Katie Carrera | 01:36 PM ET, 04/25/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:19 PM ET, 04/25/2012

Bruins’ mission: Stay ‘strong mentally’ in Game 7 vs. Caps

By Tarik El-Bashir

For Boston Coach Claude Julien, the key to beating the Caps in tonight’s Game 7 is being “strong mentally.”

By Tarik El-Bashir | 01:19 PM ET, 04/25/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:46 PM ET, 04/25/2012

Karl Alzner: Caps want to take advantage of wear and tear on Bruins

By Katie Carrera

Defenseman Karl Alzner says the Capitals can tell which Boston players might be hurting and that they want to take advantage.

By Katie Carrera | 12:46 PM ET, 04/25/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:46 AM ET, 04/25/2012

Alex Ovechkin ‘understands now exactly why he’s not out there at times’ for Capitals

By Katie Carrera

The Capitals captain says he isn’t always thrilled to be on the bench near the end of the game, but understands his role can change in the playoffs.

By Katie Carrera | 09:46 AM ET, 04/25/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:26 PM ET, 04/24/2012

Caps are loose, having fun ahead of Game 7 in Boston

By Katie Carrera

The Caps are loose and having fun ahead of Wednesday’s Game 7 in Boston.

By Katie Carrera | 03:26 PM ET, 04/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:02 PM ET, 04/24/2012

Bruins notebook: Bergeron will play in Game 7; top line looks to step up again

By Barbara Matson

The Selke Award finalist, who has an undisclosed upper-body injury, took the day off, but Boston Coach Claude Julien says he will be in the lineup.

By Barbara Matson | 03:02 PM ET, 04/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:17 PM ET, 04/24/2012

Brad Marchand doesn’t care if people say he's a diver

By Katie Carrera

Boston forward Brad Marchand has a reputation for embellishing his falls but says he doesn’t care what people say about him.

By Katie Carrera | 02:17 PM ET, 04/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:25 PM ET, 04/24/2012

Capitals aren’t intimidated by Boston’s home-ice advantage

By Katie Carrera

For some teams, playing Game 7 in Boston might be a daunting task, but the Caps think it helps their cause.

By Katie Carrera | 01:25 PM ET, 04/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:43 PM ET, 04/24/2012

Caps fans ‘know their history’ in Game 7, but they should forget it

By Lindsay Applebaum

Mike Wise writes that for fans all too familiar with Caps’ history, Game 7 inspires more dread than anticipation.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 12:43 PM ET, 04/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:40 PM ET, 04/24/2012

Jeff Schultz could return to Caps’ lineup for Game 7

By Katie Carrera

The rangy blueliner worked in a pairing with Dennis Wideman, which could indicate he will be back after sitting out the past three games.

By Katie Carrera | 12:40 PM ET, 04/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:30 AM ET, 04/24/2012

Caps have to take advantage of Bruins’ ‘banged-up’ defensemen in Game 7

By Tarik El-Bashir

Center Jay Beagle says the Caps have to take advantage of the Bruins’ “banged-up” defensemen.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 07:30 AM ET, 04/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:55 PM ET, 04/23/2012

Jay Beagle’s playoff diary: Thinking of nothing but Game 7

By Jay Beagle

The Capitals center says the only thing on his mind is Game 7 Wednesday night in Boston.

By Jay Beagle | 05:55 PM ET, 04/23/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Playoff diary

Posted at 01:56 PM ET, 04/23/2012

Dale Hunter to Caps: ‘You have to enjoy it’

By Tarik El-Bashir

Dale Hunter’s message to his Caps players ahead of Wednesday’s Game 7 in Boston: Enjoy the moment.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 01:56 PM ET, 04/23/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:39 PM ET, 04/23/2012

Capitals’ John Carlson: ‘We know what we have to do’ against Bruins

By Tarik El-Bashir

Defenseman John Carlson is confident that Washington can win Game 7 in Boston.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 12:39 PM ET, 04/23/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:46 AM ET, 04/23/2012

Capitals are familiar with Game 7s

By Katie Carrera

Washington has plenty of experience in Game 7s over the previous four seasons, though, not all of them have gone as the team would like.

By Katie Carrera | 09:46 AM ET, 04/23/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:32 AM ET, 04/23/2012

Bruins’ Ference: Having Game 7 experience ‘keeps your heart rate down’

By Katie Carrera

The Botson Bruins will rely on their Game 7 experience when they face the Caps Wednesday.

By Katie Carrera | 08:32 AM ET, 04/23/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:30 AM ET, 04/23/2012

Bruins ‘confident’ going back home for Game 7 vs. Capitals

By Gene Wang

But home ice has been problematic for the defending Stanley Cup champions

By Gene Wang | 07:30 AM ET, 04/23/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:26 PM ET, 04/22/2012

Game 7 will be a fitting end to closely-contested Caps-Bruins series

By Katie Carrera

For a series that has been so closely contested the whole way through, it seems appropriate that Washington and Boston will play a seventh, decisive game.

By Katie Carrera | 09:26 PM ET, 04/22/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:17 PM ET, 04/22/2012

Game 6: Seguin scores in overtime to lift Bruins over Caps, 4-3, force decisive Game 7

By Lindsay Applebaum

Tyler Seguin scores in overtime to lift the Bruins over the Caps, 4-3, forcing a decisive Game 7 in Boston.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 02:17 PM ET, 04/22/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:01 AM ET, 04/22/2012

Jay Beagle: Entering third period, ‘we all knew what had to be done’

By Katie Carrera

Entering the third period having allowed Boston to come back from down 2-0, “we all knew what had to be done,” Jay Beagle said.

By Katie Carrera | 11:01 AM ET, 04/22/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:48 AM ET, 04/22/2012

A look at Braden Holtby’s highlight-reel stop on Tyler Seguin

By Katie Carrera

Braden Holtby has made 175 saves over the course of this first-round series; his toe save on Tyler Seguin in Game 5 might have been his best yet.

By Katie Carrera | 09:48 AM ET, 04/22/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:10 PM ET, 04/21/2012

Troy Brouwer’s game winner fools Tim Thomas

By Katie Carrera

“He fooled me and beat me clean,” said Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas of the goal that put the Bruins on the brink of playoff elimination.

By Katie Carrera | 09:10 PM ET, 04/21/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:57 PM ET, 04/21/2012

Capitals’ 4-3 win in Game 5 puts defending Stanley Cup champion Bruins on the brink of elimination

By Katie Carrera

In the span of 24 hours these Capitals will have a chance to do something that no other squad in franchise history has – knock a defending Stanley Cup champion out of the playoffs.

By Katie Carrera | 08:57 PM ET, 04/21/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:38 PM ET, 04/21/2012

Game 5: Brouwer’s goal gives Caps 4-3 win over Bruins, chance to clinch series at home

By Lindsay Applebaum

Troy Brouwer’s goal with 1:27 to go gives Washington a big road win and a chance to clinch its first-round series against the defending Stanley Cup champs at home in Game 6.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 02:38 PM ET, 04/21/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:01 PM ET, 04/21/2012

Capitals react to 25-game suspension for Raffi Torres

By Katie Carrera

The NHL suspended Phoenix forward Raffi Torres 25 games for his hit on Chicago’s Marian Hossa. Veteran Mike Knuble says it is NHL vice president of player safety Brendan Shanahan ‘sending a message’ to players.

By Katie Carrera | 02:01 PM ET, 04/21/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:01 PM ET, 04/21/2012

Bruins shake up lines in search of an offensive spark

By Katie Carrera

In search of an offensive spark, Boston Coach Claude Julien shakes up his lines ahead of Game 5.

By Katie Carrera | 01:01 PM ET, 04/21/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:06 PM ET, 04/21/2012

Capitals gear up for back-to-back Games 5 and 6 against Bruins

By Katie Carrera

The Capitals gear up for back-to-back Games 5 and 6 against the Bruins this weekend.

By Katie Carrera | 12:06 PM ET, 04/21/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:15 AM ET, 04/21/2012

Nicklas Backstrom apologizes to teammates, back in the fold for Game 5

By Katie Carrera

Nicklas Backstrom apologizes to his teammates for suspension. He’ll be back in the lineup for Game 5 in Boston.

By Katie Carrera | 11:15 AM ET, 04/21/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:17 PM ET, 04/20/2012

Jay Beagle’s playoff diary: Team dinner and a cribbage tourney

By Jay Beagle

The Capitals center talks about the challenge of back-to-back playoff games — and what he’s doing to unwind beforehand.

By Jay Beagle | 06:17 PM ET, 04/20/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Playoff diary

Posted at 04:43 PM ET, 04/20/2012

Bettman on Capitals’ complaints about Backstrom suspension: ‘That doesn’t mean anything’

By Lindsay Applebaum

The NHL commissioner says Friday that criticism of the league’s disciplinary decisions as inconsistent simply reflect clubs disliking rulings that hurt them.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 04:43 PM ET, 04/20/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:36 PM ET, 04/20/2012

Alex Ovechkin: ‘It doesn’t matter how many minutes I play’

By Katie Carrera

Despite playing only 1:56 in the final frame, the Capitals captain says he’s fine with Coach Dale Hunter’s decisions. “Of course I want to be there, but it’s his decision,” Ovechkin said.

By Katie Carrera | 01:36 PM ET, 04/20/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:20 PM ET, 04/20/2012

Alex Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom reunited on top line during Capitals practice

By Katie Carrera

Capitals duo skates together at practice as Washington gets ready for Game 5 against the Bruins.

By Katie Carrera | 12:20 PM ET, 04/20/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:49 AM ET, 04/20/2012

John Erskine made an impact for Caps in Game 4

By Katie Carrera

The Capitals put John Erskine back in the lineup for Game 4 to help provide more grit in their own end; he did just that.

By Katie Carrera | 11:49 AM ET, 04/20/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:15 AM ET, 04/20/2012

Power play lifts Caps, continues to frustrate Bruins in Game 4

By Mark Giannotto

The Capitals have cashed in on two power play chances in this series, while Boston is a woeful 0 for 12.

By Mark Giannotto | 08:15 AM ET, 04/20/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:34 AM ET, 04/20/2012

Semin doesn’t say much about game-winning goal, but Capitals teammates say he’s ‘playing great’

By Katie Carrera

The Capitals winger says of his game-winning goal, “You approach and play every game different. Today I just decided to shoot it.”

By Katie Carrera | 12:34 AM ET, 04/20/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:20 PM ET, 04/19/2012

Alzner: Braden Holtby’s rebound in Game 4 a ‘very veteran-like response’

By Lindsay Applebaum

The Capitals’ rookie netminder says he feels like he saw the puck well in the Capitals’ Game 4 victory over Boston.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 11:20 PM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:00 PM ET, 04/19/2012

Game 4: Capitals win, 2-1, to tie series with Bruins at two games apiece

By Lindsay Applebaum

The Capitals win, 2-1, to tie their first-round series with Boston at two games apiece

By Lindsay Applebaum | 07:00 PM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:05 PM ET, 04/19/2012

Bruins notes: Scoring depth, Seguin’s struggles and igniting the power play

By Mark Giannotto

Coach Claude Julien talks about scoring depth, Tyler Seguin’s struggles and igniting the power play against the Capitals.

By Mark Giannotto | 03:05 PM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:40 PM ET, 04/19/2012

Bruins say game plan won’t change with Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom out

By Mark Giannotto

Washington will be without Nicklas Backstrom for Game 4 of its series against Boston, but the Bruins claim that won’t change their game plan.

By Mark Giannotto | 02:40 PM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:41 PM ET, 04/19/2012

Mike Knuble: ‘I always know how to jump back into it’

By Tarik El-Bashir

The veteran Capitals winger has been a healthy scratch, but says, “I always know how to jump back into it."

By Tarik El-Bashir | 01:41 PM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:46 PM ET, 04/19/2012

John Erskine could return to Capitals’ lineup for Game 4 vs. Bruins

By Tarik El-Bashir

John Erskine hasn’t appeared in a game since Feb. 12, but all indications are that the rugged Capitals defenseman will be in the lineup for Game 4 tonight at Verizon Center.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 12:46 PM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:29 PM ET, 04/19/2012

Caps will host preseason game in Baltimore for second straight year

By Lindsay Applebaum

The Capitals will host another preseason game in Baltimore, this time against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 12:29 PM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:07 AM ET, 04/19/2012

NHL Playoffs: Penguins rout Flyers to stay alive; Canucks avoid sweep

By Matt Brooks

Pittsburgh stayed out of the penalty box long enough to score 10 goals on Philadelphia while the return of Daniel Sedin helped top-seeded Vancouver avoid elimination in L.A.

By Matt Brooks | 11:07 AM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:36 AM ET, 04/19/2012

Morning skate update: Knuble, Erskine could be in lineup vs. Bruins

By Tarik El-Bashir

Alex Ovechkin and Alexander Semin are not taking part in this morning’s optional morning skate, so it’s hard to know what exactly Coach Dale Hunter has in store.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 10:36 AM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:17 AM ET, 04/19/2012

Capitals weigh in on the ambiguity of NHL suspensions

By Katie Carrera

The NHL’s disciplinary process is far from a consistent thing. The Capitals weigh in on the ambiguity.

By Katie Carrera | 10:17 AM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:23 AM ET, 04/19/2012

Jason Chimera unplugged

By Katie Carrera

Capitals veteran winger Jason Chimera sounds off on numerous hot topics ahead of Game 4 against the Bruins.

By Katie Carrera | 09:23 AM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:30 AM ET, 04/19/2012

Karl Alzner says he wasn’t calling Milan Lucic a crybaby

By Katie Carrera

Karl Alzner says he wasn’t calling Boston forward Milan Lucic a crybaby.

By Katie Carrera | 08:30 AM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:36 AM ET, 04/19/2012

Tomas Vokoun: Groin injury is ‘pretty severe tear’

By Katie Carrera

Tomas Vokoun talks about the frustration of having a “pretty severe tear” in his groin muscle, an injury that comes with no time table for recovery.

By Katie Carrera | 07:36 AM ET, 04/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:04 PM ET, 04/18/2012

NHL Playoffs: Can Penguins, Canucks avoid the sweep?

By Matt Brooks

The Wednesday night slate features a pair of elimination games for higher seeds looking to stay alive on the road while the top seed in the East ties to move within one win of the conference semifinals.

By Matt Brooks | 06:04 PM ET, 04/18/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:08 PM ET, 04/18/2012

How hitting affects Alex Ovechkin’s scoring

By Neil Greenberg

The Capitals captain is less effective on offense when he gets overly physical.

By Neil Greenberg | 03:08 PM ET, 04/18/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:50 PM ET, 04/18/2012

Jay Beagle’s playoff diary: Much-needed day off before another game of chess with the Bruins

By Jay Beagle

The Capitals center talks about enjoying a day off and looking ahead to Game 4.

By Jay Beagle | 02:50 PM ET, 04/18/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Playoff diary

Posted at 01:51 PM ET, 04/18/2012

Capitals: ‘We disagree with the NHL’s decision to suspend Nicklas Backstrom’

By Katie Carrera

Team issues statement saying discipline against Nicklas Backstrom was unjustified.

By Katie Carrera | 01:51 PM ET, 04/18/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:14 PM ET, 04/18/2012

Nicklas Backstrom: Cross check was ‘stupid on my part’

By Katie Carrera

A full transcript of Nicklas Backstrom’s brief comments about his one-game suspension.

By Katie Carrera | 12:14 PM ET, 04/18/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:09 AM ET, 04/18/2012

Capitals adjust lines in preparation for Backstrom’s absence

By Katie Carrera

Washington adjusts its lines in preparation for Nicklas Backstrom’s absence from Game 4. There may be a few alterations coming to defensive pairings as well.

By Katie Carrera | 11:09 AM ET, 04/18/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:49 AM ET, 04/18/2012

NHL Playoffs: Blackhawks’ Marian Hossa released from hospital after crushing hit from Raffi Torres

By Matt Brooks

With all the high hits, head-hunting and shameless sucker-punching going on this postseason, Brendan Shanahan and company are issuing handfuls of suspensions daily.

By Matt Brooks | 10:49 AM ET, 04/18/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:38 AM ET, 04/18/2012

Bruins found cracks in Braden Holtby’s defense in Game 3

By Katie Carrera

It took until Game 3, but Boston managed to crack young goaltender Braden Holtby.

By Katie Carrera | 09:38 AM ET, 04/18/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:09 PM ET, 04/17/2012

Nicklas Backstrom suspended one game for cross check

By Katie Carrera

Nicklas Backstrom has been suspended for one game because of his cross check to the head of Boston’s Rich Peverley.

By Katie Carrera | 11:09 PM ET, 04/17/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:43 PM ET, 04/17/2012

Bruins coach challenged his team before Game 3

By Tarik El-Bashir

Claude Julien was unhappy with energy in Games 1 and 2 against the Capitals. The pep talked appeared to pay off in Game 3.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 01:43 PM ET, 04/17/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:35 PM ET, 04/17/2012

Bruins puzzled by Backstrom’s cross check (Updated)

By Tarik El-Bashir

Team’s coach says it’s up to the league to determine whether Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom deserves punishment.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 01:35 PM ET, 04/17/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:23 PM ET, 04/17/2012

Dale Hunter: Bruins targeting Nicklas Backstrom’s head (Updated)

By Katie Carrera

Coach Dale Hunter defends Nicklas Backstrom and lashes out at the Bruins for targeting the recently-concussed center’s head.

By Katie Carrera | 12:23 PM ET, 04/17/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:01 AM ET, 04/17/2012

Capitals vs. Bruins: Milan Lucic responds to Karl Alzner’s crybaby taunt

By Katie Carrera

Bruins forward Milan Lucic responds to Karl Alzner’s crybaby taunt in Game 3.

By Katie Carrera | 10:01 AM ET, 04/17/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:41 AM ET, 04/17/2012

Nicklas Backstrom receives match penalty for cross check, could face suspension

By Katie Carrera

Nicklas Backstrom receives a match penalty and could face suspension for cross check on Boston’s Rich Peverley.

By Katie Carrera | 12:41 AM ET, 04/17/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:15 PM ET, 04/16/2012

Game 3: Chara’s late goal gives Bruins 4-3 win over Caps

By Lindsay Applebaum and Neil Greenberg

Zdeno Chara scores late in the third period to lift Boston, 4-3, and take back the series lead.

By Lindsay Applebaum and Neil Greenberg | 05:15 PM ET, 04/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:23 PM ET, 04/16/2012

Capitals look to ignite power play against Bruins

By Katie Carrera

Washington seeks to ignite its power play against the Boston Bruins in this Eastern Conference quarterfinal series.

By Katie Carrera | 02:23 PM ET, 04/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:09 PM ET, 04/16/2012

Bruins’ Krejci: Capitals ‘definitely surprised us’

By Tarik El-Bashir

David Krejci said Monday that the Capitals’ commitment to defense and combined 49 blocked shots caught the Bruins off guard in Games 1 and 2.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 02:09 PM ET, 04/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:48 PM ET, 04/16/2012

Capitals are a team to be ‘reckoned with’ on home ice

By Katie Carrera

Washington looks to extend its home-ice advantage from the regular season into the playoffs.

By Katie Carrera | 01:48 PM ET, 04/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:08 PM ET, 04/16/2012

Monday One-Timers: Is shot-blocking part of Caps’ new playoff identity?

By Katie Carrera

Is shot-blocking part of the Caps’ new playoff identity? If so, it makes one wonder what the team could accomplish this spring.

By Katie Carrera | 12:08 PM ET, 04/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:14 AM ET, 04/16/2012

Capitals tweak lines ahead of Game 3 against Bruins

By Katie Carrera

Washington tweaks its line combinations ahead of Game 3 against the Bruins.

By Katie Carrera | 10:14 AM ET, 04/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:59 AM ET, 04/16/2012

NHL Playoffs: Carl Hagelin, Matt Carkner suspensions continue league’s inconsistent rulings

By Matt Brooks

Brendan Shanahan and the NHL have been consistently inconsistent in their punishments for illegal hits during the NHL playoffs.

By Matt Brooks | 09:59 AM ET, 04/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:30 AM ET, 04/16/2012

Behind Braden Holtby’s pregame ‘Holtbyisms’

By Lindsay Applebaum

The Capitals’ rookie netminder has some odd warmup rituals, but they do serve a pupose.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 08:30 AM ET, 04/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:51 PM ET, 04/15/2012

Jay Beagle’s playoff diary: Resting up after a big win in Boston

By Jay Beagle

The Capitals center talks about the relief of winning Game 2 and what he did to unwind Sunday afternoon in Clarendon.

By Jay Beagle | 05:51 PM ET, 04/15/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Playoff diary

Posted at 02:42 PM ET, 04/15/2012

Capitals’ Mike Green: This is the ‘best I’ve felt in two years’

By Katie Carrera

Mike Green says he feels better than he has in two years even if he isn’t the player everyone remembers as being a Norris Trophy finalist earlier in the decade.

By Katie Carrera | 02:42 PM ET, 04/15/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:27 PM ET, 04/15/2012

Dale Hunter on Braden Holtby: ‘Holtsy’s our goalie’

By Katie Carrera

Coach Dale Hunter backs Braden Holtby as the Capitals’ go-to netminder for the forseeable future.

By Katie Carrera | 01:27 PM ET, 04/15/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:29 AM ET, 04/15/2012

Capitals hold optional practice Sunday

By Katie Carrera

After the first two games of their series against Boston features overtime, the Capitals hold an optional practice on Sunday.

By Katie Carrera | 11:29 AM ET, 04/15/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:40 PM ET, 04/14/2012

Nicklas Backstrom comes through in the clutch for Caps

By Katie Carrera

Nicklas Backstrom scores the game-winner in a critical double-overtime victory for the Capitals and also took a lot of physical contact from the Bruins.

By Katie Carrera | 09:40 PM ET, 04/14/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:11 PM ET, 04/14/2012

Braden Holtby keeps composure in Game 2 vs. Bruins

By Katie Carrera

The rookie Capitals goalie makes 43 saves against Boston in his second NHL playoff game.

By Katie Carrera | 09:11 PM ET, 04/14/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:14 PM ET, 04/14/2012

Game 2: Backstrom scores in double overtime; Capitals beat Bruins, 2-1

By Lindsay Applebaum

Nicklas Backstrom scores in double overtime to send the first-round series to D.C. tied at one win apiece.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 02:14 PM ET, 04/14/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:00 PM ET, 04/14/2012

Flyers, Penguins show a different type of playoff hockey

By Katie Carrera

Flyers-Penguins offers a different type of playoff hockey than a more typical, defensive series like Caps-Bruins.

By Katie Carrera | 02:00 PM ET, 04/14/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:40 PM ET, 04/14/2012

Karl Alzner: Expect a ‘more loose’ Game 2 between Caps and Bruins

By Katie Carrera

With both the Capitals and Bruins looking for offense, expect a different type of Game 2.

By Katie Carrera | 01:40 PM ET, 04/14/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:44 PM ET, 04/14/2012

Braden Holtby: ‘That’s my crease’

By Katie Carrera

Capitals’ goaltender Braden Holtby is looking to build off his strong 29-save outing from Game 1 Saturday afternoon for Game 2.

By Katie Carrera | 12:44 PM ET, 04/14/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:36 PM ET, 04/13/2012

Jay Beagle’s playoff diary: Losing in overtime, and then getting over it

By Jay Beagle

In his latest entry, the Caps center talks about the feeling of getting scored on in overtime, why he missed the skate and how he feels about Game 2.

By Jay Beagle | 05:36 PM ET, 04/13/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Playoff diary

Posted at 05:11 PM ET, 04/13/2012

Capitals hope shot-blocking efforts remain a ‘big-time pain’ for Bruins

By Katie Carrera

Every time the Bruins talked about needing to find more offense than they did in their 1-0 playoff-opening win, they brought up the Capitals’ shot-blocking efforts.

By Katie Carrera | 05:11 PM ET, 04/13/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:20 PM ET, 04/13/2012

Laich: Capitals have to create more space for Ovechkin vs. Bruins

By Tarik El-Bashir

The Capitals forward spoke to reporters after Friday’s practice about the goal of getting linemate Alex Ovechkin away from the Bruins who shut him down in Game 1.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 04:20 PM ET, 04/13/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:31 PM ET, 04/13/2012

Bruins’ concern the same as Caps’: need more offense

By Tarik El-Bashir

Bruins Coach Claude Julien said he was pleased with his team’s performance in Game 1, but acknowledged that his team must bear down on offense Saturday.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 03:31 PM ET, 04/13/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:06 PM ET, 04/13/2012

Capitals’ lines remain the same after being shut out by Bruins in Game 1

By Katie Carrera

Washington’s forward lines remain the same despite a sporadic showing by the offense in Game 1.

By Katie Carrera | 03:06 PM ET, 04/13/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:17 PM ET, 04/13/2012

Claude Julien: David Krejci ‘scheduled to play’ in Game 2 (updated)

By Katie Carrera

The Bruins center is not on the ice for practice after a pane of glass fell on him Thursday night, but he says he’s fine.

By Katie Carrera | 12:17 PM ET, 04/13/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:23 AM ET, 04/13/2012

Alex Ovechkin, Dennis Seidenberg and the hit heard around the NHL

By Katie Carrera

It was a matchup between Alex Ovechkin and Bruins defenseman Dennis Seidenberg that electrified Game 1 of this first-round series.

By Katie Carrera | 11:23 AM ET, 04/13/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:54 AM ET, 04/13/2012

NHL Playoffs: Nashville’s Shea Weber fined for hit on Zetterberg; Sharks, Coyotes win in OT

By Matt Brooks

In a postseason full of whistles, Shea Weber gets off with a slap on the wrist. Meantime the Sharks, Coyotes and Bruins all won overtime games while the Rangers rolled on Thursday night.

By Matt Brooks | 10:54 AM ET, 04/13/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:48 AM ET, 04/13/2012

Capitals praise Braden Holtby’s efforts in Game 1 loss to Bruins

By Katie Carrera

Despite a playoff-opening loss to Boston, the Capitals are pleased with the performance from their rookie netminder.

By Katie Carrera | 12:48 AM ET, 04/13/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:50 PM ET, 04/12/2012

Game 1: Bruins 1, Capitals 0, overtime

By Lindsay Applebaum and Neil Greenberg

Chris Kelly blasts a shot past Braden Holtby just 1:18 into overtime to give Boston a 1-0 Game 1 victory.

By Lindsay Applebaum and Neil Greenberg | 05:50 PM ET, 04/12/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:05 PM ET, 04/12/2012

Capitals-Bruins Game 1: Beagle misses morning skate (updated)

By Katie Carrera

Alex Ovechkin, Jay Beagle not on the ice for the Capitals’ morning skate at TD Garden.

By Katie Carrera | 02:05 PM ET, 04/12/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:51 PM ET, 04/12/2012

Bruins Coach Claude Julien: Alex Ovechkin-Zdeno Chara matchup is overhyped

By Tarik El-Bashir

Bruins Coach Claude Julien says the matchup between Alex Ovechkin and Zdeno Chara is a media creation.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 01:51 PM ET, 04/12/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:52 PM ET, 04/12/2012

Zdeno Chara on Bruins’ chances of repeat: ‘We don’t even talk about it’

By Tarik El-Bashir

Boston captain Zdeno Chara says, “We’re focusing on Game 1. You can’t be talking about something that you’re not even there yet.”

By Tarik El-Bashir | 12:52 PM ET, 04/12/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:50 AM ET, 04/12/2012

NHL Playoffs: Flyers rally from 3-0 deficit to stun Penguins in overtime

By Matt Brooks

Pittsburgh coach Dan Bylsma doesn’t believe in momentum in the playoffs. That’s probably a good thing after the Flyers stormed back from a 3-0 hole to take Game 1 in Pittsburgh.

By Matt Brooks | 11:50 AM ET, 04/12/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:32 AM ET, 04/12/2012

Morning roundup: Caps bring a new attitude to playoffs

By Post Sports Editors

Get caught up before the Capitals and Bruins face off tonight in Boston at 7:30 p.m.

By Post Sports Editors | 09:32 AM ET, 04/12/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:30 PM ET, 04/11/2012

Flyers vs. Penguins: Which team would you rather see lose?

By Matt Brooks

All the pieces are in place for a fun, physical, intense series between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. So which team would you rather see bounced from the Stanley Cup Playoffs in the first round?

By Matt Brooks | 06:30 PM ET, 04/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:55 PM ET, 04/11/2012

Jay Beagle’s playoff diary: Dinner in Boston and an early night ahead

By Jay Beagle

The Capitals center will be sharing his perspective as Washington makes its way through the postseason.

By Jay Beagle | 05:55 PM ET, 04/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Playoff diary

Posted at 02:08 PM ET, 04/11/2012

Video: How much pressure is on Braden Holtby?

By Post Sports Editors

The Post Sports Live crew debates how much pressure is on Braden Holtby going into the Capitals’ playoff series against the Bruins.

By Post Sports Editors | 02:08 PM ET, 04/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:18 PM ET, 04/11/2012

Sjogren practices with Capitals for first time since camp

By Gene Wang

Recalled Swedish center initially left Capitals on acrimonious terms

By Gene Wang | 01:18 PM ET, 04/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:31 PM ET, 04/11/2012

Holtby to start; Neuvirth to make trip to Boston

By Gene Wang

Vokoun does solo work but will not accompany team to Boston

By Gene Wang | 12:31 PM ET, 04/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:00 PM ET, 04/11/2012

Intel on the Bruins: Tim Thomas distraction, the ‘X-factor’ and more

By Post Sports Editors

NESN.com Bruins beat writer Douglas Flynn gives his take on the Bruins heading into Thursday’s first-round meeting with the Caps.

By Post Sports Editors | 12:00 PM ET, 04/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:41 AM ET, 04/11/2012

Capitals-Bruins: five storylines to watch

By Katie Carrera

There will be a number of subplots in the first round, but here are five storylines to watch as the Capitals take on the Bruins.

By Katie Carrera | 10:41 AM ET, 04/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:03 AM ET, 04/11/2012

Capitals not worried about Braden Holtby handling playoff havoc

By Katie Carrera

While the Bruins will likely test Braden Holtby with traffic and havoc in the crease, the Capitals aren’t worried about the 22-year-old standing up for himself.

By Katie Carrera | 10:03 AM ET, 04/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:23 AM ET, 04/11/2012

Capitals’ Joel Ward knows playoffs offer a chance for him to step up

By Katie Carrera

Washington signed Joel Ward last summer because of his postseason success. Can he step up now that the playoffs have arrived?

By Katie Carrera | 09:23 AM ET, 04/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:08 AM ET, 04/11/2012

Jeff Schultz could return to Capitals lineup vs. Bruins

By Katie Carrera

If this week’s practices are any indication, Jeff Schultz could be back in the Capitals’ lineup for Game 1 against Boston after sitting out the five final regular season games as a healthy scratch.

By Katie Carrera | 08:08 AM ET, 04/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:16 PM ET, 04/10/2012

Caps vs. Bruins: Does head-to-head regular season success matter in playoffs?

By Neil Greenberg

The Caps went 3-1-0 this regular season against the Bruins. Does that give them an advantage in the playoffs?

By Neil Greenberg | 03:16 PM ET, 04/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:42 PM ET, 04/10/2012

Capitals recall Mattias Sjogren

By Katie Carrera

Washington recalls Mattias Sjogren from the Swedish Elite League.

By Katie Carrera | 02:42 PM ET, 04/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:25 PM ET, 04/10/2012

Updates on Michal Neuvirth, Tomas Vokoun

By Katie Carrera

Michal Neuvirth and Tomas Vokoun were both on the ice Tuesday and met with reporters for the first time since suffering their latest injuries to offer updates on their recovery status.

By Katie Carrera | 01:25 PM ET, 04/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:23 AM ET, 04/10/2012

Michal Neuvirth, Alexander Semin taking part in Caps practice

By Katie Carrera

Michal Neuvirth is taking part in Capitals practice for the first time since suffering an apparent injury to his left leg on April 5.

By Katie Carrera | 11:23 AM ET, 04/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:33 AM ET, 04/10/2012

Tomas Vokoun skates at KCI for first time since aggravating groin injury

By Katie Carrera

Tomas Vokoun skates for the first time in Washington since he aggravated a groin muscle strain on March 29.

By Katie Carrera | 10:33 AM ET, 04/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:12 AM ET, 04/10/2012

Are Capitals underdogs vs. Bruins? Depends who you ask

By Katie Carrera

In five consecutive playoff appearances, this one is the first that pits the Capitals against a foe as the lower seed.

By Katie Carrera | 10:12 AM ET, 04/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:30 AM ET, 04/10/2012

Capitals will ‘push back’ against physical Bruins

By Katie Carrera

The Bruins play with a physical edge, Washington will need to match it.

By Katie Carrera | 08:30 AM ET, 04/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:41 PM ET, 04/09/2012

Capitals’ George McPhee on Nicklas Backstrom: ‘We’re just happy he’s back’

By Katie Carrera

General Manager George McPhee on Nicklas Backstrom: ‘We’re just happy he’s back’

By Katie Carrera | 02:41 PM ET, 04/09/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:23 PM ET, 04/09/2012

McPhee on Braden Holtby: ‘We have no choice -- if the other guys aren’t ready to go, he’s playing’

By Katie Carrera

General Manager George McPhee offers an update on the status of injured goaltenders Michal Neuvirth and Tomas Vokoun and discusses the Capitals’ situation in net.

By Katie Carrera | 01:23 PM ET, 04/09/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:37 PM ET, 04/09/2012

Can Braden Holtby give Caps a Cup-caliber performance?

By Neil Greenberg

It’s tough to know for sure how good the 22-year-old Caps netminder will really be at the NHL level.

By Neil Greenberg | 12:37 PM ET, 04/09/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:14 AM ET, 04/09/2012

Maintenance day for Semin, other Capitals practice notes

By Katie Carrera

Alexander Semin receives a maintenance day and other notes from the Capitals’ first practice of the postseason.

By Katie Carrera | 11:14 AM ET, 04/09/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:03 AM ET, 04/09/2012

Michal Neuvirth on the ice before Capitals practice

By Katie Carrera

The injured netminder was skating lightly before the Caps’ regular practice.

By Katie Carrera | 10:03 AM ET, 04/09/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:36 AM ET, 04/09/2012

Poll: Pick your winner in Capitals-Bruins series

By Post Sports Editors

Which team will prevail in the upcoming first-round series?

By Post Sports Editors | 09:36 AM ET, 04/09/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:13 PM ET, 04/08/2012

NHL playoffs 2012: First-round schedule

By Post Sports Editors

The complete NHL playoff schedule for the Eastern and Western Conferences, with dates, times and broadcast information.

By Post Sports Editors | 01:13 PM ET, 04/08/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:43 AM ET, 04/08/2012

Nicklas Backstrom returning to form for Capitals

By Katie Carrera

Nicklas Backstrom plays his best game since returning to the lineup on Saturday against the Rangers.

By Katie Carrera | 10:43 AM ET, 04/08/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:38 AM ET, 04/08/2012

NHL playoffs will be a fresh start for Capitals

By Katie Carrera

Washington’s uneven regular season ends with its intended goal and now, as Alex Oevchkin said, “It’s new season and it’s not going to be excuses.”

By Katie Carrera | 12:38 AM ET, 04/08/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Categories: Capitals Insider

Posted at 09:09 PM ET, 04/07/2012

Capitals beat Rangers, 4-1; face Bruins in first round of playoffs (updated)

By Lindsay Applebaum

After a convincing 4-1 victory over the Eastern Conference leading Rangers at Madison Square Garden, the Capitals are the No. 7 seed in the first round of the playoffs and will face the Bruins.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 09:09 PM ET, 04/07/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:02 PM ET, 04/07/2012

Open thread: Capitals at Rangers

By Post Sports Editors

The Capitals are already in the playoffs, but tonight’s game against the top-seeded Rangers will determine who they face in the first round.

By Post Sports Editors | 06:02 PM ET, 04/07/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:30 PM ET, 04/07/2012

Breakdown: Capitals playoff scenarios (updated)

By Katie Carrera

The Capitals have clinched a playoff berth but who they will face in the first round will depend on the outcome of several contests Saturday, the final day of the NHL’s regular season.

By Katie Carrera | 05:30 PM ET, 04/07/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:28 PM ET, 04/07/2012

Tortorella: Rangers want Presidents’ Trophy

By Katie Carrera

New York Coach John Tortorella made it clear that his team has plenty left to play for in the regular season finale.

By Katie Carrera | 05:28 PM ET, 04/07/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:56 PM ET, 04/07/2012

Joel Ward will play against Rangers, Mike Knuble to be healthy scratch

By Katie Carrera

Joel Ward back in the Capitals’ lineup for season finale against New York. Mike Knuble will be a healthy scratch.

By Katie Carrera | 04:56 PM ET, 04/07/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:00 PM ET, 04/07/2012

The Capitals’ shutdown ‘Wolfpack’

By Katie Carrera

Washington has found a solid checking line combination with Matt Hendricks, Jay Beagle and Troy Brouwer — or as they now call themselves, the Wolfpack.

By Katie Carrera | 02:00 PM ET, 04/07/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:35 PM ET, 04/06/2012

Capitals recall goaltender Dany Sabourin

By Katie Carrera

After injuries to Tomas Vokoun and Michal Neuvirth, Washington recalls Dany Sabourin from Hershey.

By Katie Carrera | 10:35 PM ET, 04/06/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:02 PM ET, 04/06/2012

NHL awards: Stats geek vs. old-school reporter

By Tarik El-Bashir and Neil Greenberg

Ever wondered what hockey scribes do between the end of the regular season and the playoffs? They argue over which players deserve to win the NHL’s major awards.

By Tarik El-Bashir and Neil Greenberg | 04:02 PM ET, 04/06/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:39 PM ET, 04/06/2012

Tortorella: ‘We want to win that hockey game’ vs. Capitals

By Katie Carrera

New York Coach John Tortorella says the Rangers, who are expected to start Henrik Lundqvist, want to win the regular season finale.

By Katie Carrera | 01:39 PM ET, 04/06/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:43 PM ET, 04/06/2012

Injured Michal Neuvirth to visit doctor; Braden Holtby will start against Rangers

By Katie Carrera

With Michal Neuvirth scheduled to see a doctor on Friday, Braden Holtby will start for Capitals in regular season finale.

By Katie Carrera | 12:43 PM ET, 04/06/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:30 AM ET, 04/06/2012

Capitals remain in reach of Southeast title, third seed in East

By Katie Carrera

Thursday’s win over Florida not only clinched a playoff bert for the Capitals, it kept hope alive for a fifth straight division title and home-ice advantage for at least the first round.

By Katie Carrera | 09:30 AM ET, 04/06/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Categories: Capitals Insider

Posted at 07:18 AM ET, 04/06/2012

On Hockey: Braden Holtby a solid Plan B for playoff-bound Capitals

By Tarik El-Bashir

ON HOCKEY | With Michal Neuvirth injured, the Capitals may be pinning their playoff hopes on the talented but inexperienced 22-year-old Braden Holtby.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 07:18 AM ET, 04/06/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:11 AM ET, 04/06/2012

Capitals took an unexpected route, but clinch fifth straight playoff berth

By Katie Carrera

Washington might not have followed the script laid out at the start of the 2011-12 season but it clinched a fifth straight playoff berth Thursday night.

By Katie Carrera | 12:11 AM ET, 04/06/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:44 PM ET, 04/05/2012

Capitals earn playoff berth with win over Panthers; Sabres out after loss to Flyers (updated)

By Lindsay Applebaum

Win over Panthers, Buffalo’s loss punches Washington’s playoff ticket.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 09:44 PM ET, 04/05/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:09 PM ET, 04/05/2012

Michal Neuvirth injured in Capitals’ game vs. Panthers

By Katie Carrera

Michal Neuvirth suffers an apparent lower-body injury in the second period against Florida.

By Katie Carrera | 09:09 PM ET, 04/05/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:03 PM ET, 04/05/2012

Open thread: Capitals vs. Panthers

By Post Sports Editors

The Capitals still are in control of their playoff fate, but they need to win tonight at home against Florida to keep it that way.

By Post Sports Editors | 06:03 PM ET, 04/05/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:24 PM ET, 04/05/2012

Capitals have to get back to protecting leads

By Katie Carrera

The Capitals have played well when leading for most of the season but in three of their past six games have coughed up multiple-goal advantages.

By Katie Carrera | 03:24 PM ET, 04/05/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:18 PM ET, 04/05/2012

Tomas Fleischmann on Panthers-Caps: ‘Everything is on the line’

By Tarik El-Bashir

The former Capital will be the Panthers’ top-line left wing as Florida aims to wrap up the only division title in franchise history and its first playoff berth in 12 years.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 02:18 PM ET, 04/05/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:08 PM ET, 04/05/2012

Jose Theodore likely to start against Caps

By Tarik El-Bashir

By Tarik El-Bashir | 02:08 PM ET, 04/05/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:12 PM ET, 04/05/2012

Capitals ‘better have a lot of intensity, lot of desire’ against Florida

By Katie Carrera

Washington remains in control of its playoff hopes if it can win tonight against the Florida Panthers at Verizon Center.

By Katie Carrera | 01:12 PM ET, 04/05/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:38 AM ET, 04/05/2012

Troy Brouwer ‘absolutely’ ready to face Florida

By Katie Carrera

Troy Brouwer says he’s ready to go for the game against Florida despite missing Wednesday’s practice.

By Katie Carrera | 11:38 AM ET, 04/05/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:30 AM ET, 04/05/2012

Capitals focused on winning, not chances of Southeast title

By Katie Carrera

The Capitals are more concerned with getting a precious two points, not their chances of the Southeast title, though the latter will add a wrinkle to Thursday’s game against the Panthers.

By Katie Carrera | 09:30 AM ET, 04/05/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:30 AM ET, 04/05/2012

Post Sports Live: Capitals hunting for playoff spot

By Lindsay Applebaum

Does Washington have enough mental toughness to make the playoffs? The Post Sports Live crew debates the issue.

By Lindsay Applebaum | 08:30 AM ET, 04/05/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:03 PM ET, 04/04/2012

Race to the postseason: How Capitals can clinch a playoff berth over Sabres (updated)

By Katie Carrera

A look at how the Capitals can clinch a playoff berth in the final two games of the regular season.

By Katie Carrera | 03:03 PM ET, 04/04/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:53 PM ET, 04/04/2012

Michal Neuvirth will face Florida

By Katie Carrera

Coach Dale Hunter says Michal Neuvirth will start on Thursday as the Capitals host the Florida Panthers.

By Katie Carrera | 01:53 PM ET, 04/04/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:12 PM ET, 04/04/2012

Brooks Laich doesn’t back down from playoff guarantee; Ryan Miller not convinced

By Katie Carrera

Brooks Laich doesn’t back down from his guarantee that the Capitals will make the playoffs.

By Katie Carrera | 01:12 PM ET, 04/04/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:04 AM ET, 04/04/2012

Dale Hunter expects Troy Brouwer to play against Panthers (updated)

By Katie Carrera

Winger Troy Brouwer is not taking part in the Capitals’ Wednesday practice.

By Katie Carrera | 11:04 AM ET, 04/04/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:57 AM ET, 04/04/2012

How to shift momentum: Just score

By Neil Greenberg

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS | The win percentage for a team scoring in the first or last minute of a period is basically a coin flip, except for when a goal is scored in the last minute of the second frame.

By Neil Greenberg | 08:57 AM ET, 04/04/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:45 AM ET, 04/03/2012

On Hockey: Capitals need to put their faith in Michal Neuvirth

By Tarik El-Bashir

With two regular season games left – and a first-round playoff series possibly only a week away — it’s time to name a starting goalie.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 11:45 AM ET, 04/03/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:18 AM ET, 04/03/2012

Capitals’ bad habits prove costly once again

By Katie Carrera

Washington has fallen into poor patterns when it comes to turning the puck over and failing to crash the net, as evidenced most recently by Monday’s 4-2 loss to the Lightning.

By Katie Carrera | 09:18 AM ET, 04/03/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:19 AM ET, 04/03/2012

Race to the postseason: Capitals may have cost themselves chance at winning Southeast with loss to Lightning

By Katie Carrera

Washington may have cost itself a chance to win the Southeast Division, and earn the third seed in the East with loss to Lightning.

By Katie Carrera | 01:19 AM ET, 04/03/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:51 PM ET, 04/02/2012

Open thread: Capitals at Lightning

By Post Sports Editors

Chat as Washington takes on the Lightning in Tampa Bay.

By Post Sports Editors | 05:51 PM ET, 04/02/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:12 PM ET, 04/02/2012

Michal Neuvirth to start, will face Lightning for first time since 2011 playoffs

By Katie Carrera

Michal Neuvirth will start against the Lightning and other notes from Tampa.

By Katie Carrera | 02:12 PM ET, 04/02/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:01 AM ET, 04/02/2012

On Hockey: Nicklas Backstrom’s return could be the difference for Capitals

By Tarik El-Bashir

ON HOCKEY | The return of the Capitals’ top center could be the difference if Washington makes the playoffs.

By Tarik El-Bashir | 11:01 AM ET, 04/02/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:55 AM ET, 04/02/2012

Race to the postseason: How the Capitals can clinch a playoff spot

By Katie Carrera

In addition to being able to clinch a playoff berth this week, the Capitals still have a shot at the Southeast Division title.

By Katie Carrera | 08:55 AM ET, 04/02/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:49 AM ET, 04/01/2012

Michal Neuvirth is stepping up for Capitals

By Katie Carrera

Goalie makes 39 saves in Washington’s 3-2 shootout win over Montreal and is becoming the go-to option in net once again.

By Katie Carrera | 11:49 AM ET, 04/01/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:29 AM ET, 04/01/2012

Nicklas Backstrom: ‘It was a fun game to play’

By Katie Carrera

Nicklas Backstrom returns to the Capitals’ lineup in 3-2 shootout win over Montreal.

By Katie Carrera | 12:29 AM ET, 04/01/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Categories: Capitals Insider

Posted at 06:20 PM ET, 03/31/2012

Open thread: Capitals vs. Canadiens

By Post Sports Editors

Nicklas Backstrom is set to make his return to the Capitals’ lineup tonight against Montreal after missing nearly three months with a concussion.

By Post Sports Editors | 06:20 PM ET, 03/31/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:23 PM ET, 03/31/2012

Race to the postseason: Capitals can’t take Montreal lightly

By Katie Carrera

The Capitals must keep winning to remain in control of their own playoff destiny and they know they can’t take Montreal lightly.

By Katie Carrera | 05:23 PM ET, 03/31/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:53 PM ET, 03/31/2012

Capitals eager to have Backstrom on power play again

By Katie Carrera

The Capitals are eager to get Nicklas Backstrom back in the lineup, especially on the power play.

By Katie Carrera | 02:53 PM ET, 03/31/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:29 PM ET, 03/31/2012

Michal Neuvirth to start and other Capitals’ lineup notes

By Katie Carrera

Michal Neuvirth to start against Canadiens and other notes from the morning skate.

By Katie Carrera | 12:29 PM ET, 03/31/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:26 AM ET, 03/31/2012

Nicklas Backstrom to return against Montreal

By Katie Carrera

Nicklas Backstrom will return to the Capitals lineup tonight against Montreal after missing 40 games because of a concussion.

By Katie Carrera | 10:26 AM ET, 03/31/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Stats, scores and schedules

Capitals Insider: April, 2012