Capitals Insider - Katie Carrera on everything Washington Capitals.

With a nifty dangle move and several walloping punches thrown in defense of teammates, Michael Latta will make it hard for Coach Barry Trotz to bench him this weekend in Montreal.

By Alex Prewitt | 09:05 AM ET, 01/30/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:20 PM ET, 01/29/2015

For Eric Fehr, faceoff success is ‘when you start believing that you’re a centerman’

By Alex Prewitt

Fehr won 77 percent of his draws in the 4-0 rout over the Penguins, including 13 of 17 against Sidney Crosby.

By Alex Prewitt | 01:20 PM ET, 01/29/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:14 AM ET, 01/29/2015

With 12th goal this month, Alex Ovechkin overtakes NHL’s lead

By Alex Prewitt

With his fourth two-point effort in five games, Oveckhin is on a blistering pace and is the only NHLer with double-digit goals this month.

By Alex Prewitt | 09:14 AM ET, 01/29/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:31 AM ET, 01/29/2015

Postgame: Shutting out Pittsburgh ‘a good reminder’ for Capitals after four-game slide

By Alex Prewitt

When the Capitals play how they hope to, dictating the pace and matching physicality, the games will look like this 4-0 beating of the Penguins.

By Alex Prewitt | 01:31 AM ET, 01/29/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:18 PM ET, 01/28/2015

Capitals vs. Penguins: Game 48 pregame notes and discussion thread

By Alex Prewitt

Braden Holtby will start again, Michael Latta will start for only the third time this calendar year, Sidney Crosby returns for Pittsburgh and Maxim Lapierre debuts.

By Alex Prewitt | 07:18 PM ET, 01/28/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:35 PM ET, 01/28/2015

Brooks Laich: Rivalry night against Pittsburgh ‘a game we must have’

By Alex Prewitt

All but eight Capitals participated in the optional morning skate, trying to sweat out the lingering frustration of Tuesday’s loss in Columbus.

By Alex Prewitt | 01:35 PM ET, 01/28/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:44 AM ET, 01/28/2015

Road gets tougher for Capitals to end current slide

By Alex Prewitt

With four straight defeats behind them, including two against losing teams, the Capitals look ahead to see three 60-point juggernauts barreling toward them.

By Alex Prewitt | 10:44 AM ET, 01/28/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:27 PM ET, 01/27/2015

Postgame: ‘No excuses’ from Capitals after fourth straight loss

By Alex Prewitt

The Capitals have scored 14 goals over their past four games bridging the all-star break, but have allowed 17. This did not sit well with Coach Barry Trotz.

By Alex Prewitt | 11:27 PM ET, 01/27/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:56 PM ET, 01/27/2015

Capitals at Blue Jackets: Game 47 discussion thread

By Alex Prewitt

After the highest-scoring all-star game in history, the Capitals and Blue Jackets get back to work, both at different crossroads.

By Alex Prewitt | 06:56 PM ET, 01/27/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:45 PM ET, 01/27/2015

Cam Schilling had just started vacation when the Capitals called him up

By Alex Prewitt

Schilling flew from Philadelphia to Atlanta to Ft. Myers to Atlanta to Philadelphia, then from Harrisburg to Chicago to Columbus. He was tired.

By Alex Prewitt | 04:45 PM ET, 01/27/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:14 PM ET, 01/27/2015

Trotz: In tight playoff race, Capitals cannot afford to ‘throw away points’

By Alex Prewitt

By Alex Prewitt | 04:14 PM ET, 01/27/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:32 AM ET, 01/27/2015

A conversation with Brooks Orpik about his ‘frustrating’ penalties

By Alex Prewitt

The defenseman has committed 22 minors this season, five more than any other skater on the Washington Capitals and 10th most in the NHL.

By Alex Prewitt | 11:32 AM ET, 01/27/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:21 PM ET, 01/26/2015

Back from all-star break, Capitals preach better ‘puck management’ while leading

By Alex Prewitt

Washington limped into vacation by blowing a two-goal lead against Edmonton, and now must navigate the tricky landscape of protecting an advantage.

By Alex Prewitt | 06:21 PM ET, 01/26/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:42 PM ET, 01/26/2015

The potential impacts of player tracking in the NHL

By Alex Prewitt

The tested “active tracking,” essentially embedding chips into players’ sweaters and jerseys.

By Alex Prewitt | 12:42 PM ET, 01/26/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:18 PM ET, 01/25/2015

2015 NHL All-Star Game: The real reason Alex Ovechkin badly wanted a car

By Alex Prewitt

The Caps star aimed to get picked last in the game draft so he could win. He didn’t. It paid off anyway.

By Alex Prewitt | 11:18 PM ET, 01/25/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Alex Ovechkin

Posted at 04:13 PM ET, 01/25/2015

2015 NHL All-Star Game: Team Foligno vs. Team Towes discussion thread

By Alex Prewitt

Chat about the hockey and try not to get scared by the Nationwide Arena cannon.

By Alex Prewitt | 04:13 PM ET, 01/25/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:32 PM ET, 01/25/2015

2015 NHL All-Star Game: Tracking chips unveiled during skills competition

By Alex Prewitt

The latest innovation is a technology that could blow open the data door and transform the way everyone ingests this sport.

By Alex Prewitt | 02:32 PM ET, 01/25/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:59 PM ET, 01/24/2015

2015 NHL All-Star Game: After skills competition, Alex Ovechkin still really wants a car

By Alex Prewitt

Ovechkin claimed he sold his entire fleet of cars. It seemed like a little white lie.

By Alex Prewitt | 10:59 PM ET, 01/24/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:39 PM ET, 01/24/2015

2015 NHL All-Star Game: Three-time champ Alex Ovechkin falls in breakaway challenge

By Alex Prewitt

It was hard to beat local favorite Ryan Johansen’s combination of Ohio State football, a small child and the Flying V.

By Alex Prewitt | 09:39 PM ET, 01/24/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:16 PM ET, 01/24/2015

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman talks outdoor games, salary cap, player tracking

By Alex Prewitt

Addressing reporters Saturday afternoon at the 2015 NHL All-Star Game, commissioner Gary Bettman zipped through a wide range of newsworthy items.

By Alex Prewitt | 05:16 PM ET, 01/24/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:44 PM ET, 01/24/2015

NHL announces creation of World Cup of Hockey 2016 in Toronto

By Alex Prewitt

The initial event, scheduled to begin Sept. 17, 2016 at Air Canada Centre in Toronto, will feature eight teams, each playing three pre-tournament games and three round-robin qualification matches.

By Alex Prewitt | 03:44 PM ET, 01/24/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:44 PM ET, 01/24/2015

Prospect Riley Barber ‘trying not to think’ about future with Capitals

By Alex Prewitt

Checking in with the former sixth-round pick during his junior season at Miami (Ohio), as well as a shrine to Washington goaltending coach Mitch Korn.

By Alex Prewitt | 12:44 PM ET, 01/24/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Riley Barber

Posted at 09:44 PM ET, 01/23/2015

2015 NHL All-Star Game: Alex Ovechkin really wanted to be picked last, was not

By Alex Prewitt

Seriously. He really, really, really wanted a car. Even though he has a bunch of them.

By Alex Prewitt | 09:44 PM ET, 01/23/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:53 PM ET, 01/23/2015

2015 NHL All-Star Game notes: ‘A huge honor’ for former Caps prospect Filip Forsberg

By Alex Prewitt

The former first-round pick leads all rookies in points, and earned a promotion from skills competition participant to full-fledged All-Star after injuries opened up spots.

By Alex Prewitt | 05:53 PM ET, 01/23/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:19 PM ET, 01/23/2015

2015 NHL All-Star Game: Alex Ovechkin balances ‘obligation’ and ‘fun’ of sixth selection

By Alex Prewitt

The Capitals’ captain also touched on a variety of subjects, like playing under Coach Barry Trotz.

By Alex Prewitt | 03:19 PM ET, 01/23/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:33 AM ET, 01/23/2015

Capitals goaltender Braden Holtby ‘a full-tilt guy’

By Alex Prewitt

Why Holtby talks on game days, whether teammates have noticed his casualness after catching pucks and the goaltender’s progress in “body control” and “safe choices.”

By Alex Prewitt | 10:33 AM ET, 01/23/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:30 PM ET, 01/22/2015

Dmitry Orlov injury update: GM Brian MacLellan expects ‘clearer picture’ soon

By Alex Prewitt

The young defenseman’s recovery from wrist surgery has been shrouded in mystery and marked by plateaus, but the Capitals’ general manager said a final decision should come within the next several weeks.

By Alex Prewitt | 01:30 PM ET, 01/22/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Dmitry Orlov

Posted at 11:36 AM ET, 01/22/2015

Pending free agents talk desires to re-sign with Capitals

By Alex Prewitt

Mike Green, Jay Beagle, Joel Ward and Braden Holtby were all upfront in expressing hopes they could sign new deals with the Capitals next summer.

By Alex Prewitt | 11:36 AM ET, 01/22/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:11 PM ET, 01/21/2015

After eight months together, Trotz and MacLellan ‘on the same page’

By Alex Prewitt

The Capitals’ head coach and general manager say they are in accord entering the All-Star break.

By Alex Prewitt | 12:11 PM ET, 01/21/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:16 AM ET, 01/21/2015

Once welcoming rest, Capitals now must use All-Star break to ‘regroup’

By Alex Prewitt

Three straight losses means the Capitals will spend their sun-splashed vacations both trying to rest and thinking about what to fix.

By Alex Prewitt | 10:16 AM ET, 01/21/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:00 AM ET, 01/21/2015

In third straight loss, Capitals encounter ‘same problems that keep plaguing us’

By Alex Prewitt

The Capitals have allowed 13 goals over the past three losses, including seven in the final period of regulation.

By Alex Prewitt | 12:00 AM ET, 01/21/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:06 PM ET, 01/20/2015

Capitals vs. Oilers: Game 46 discussion thread

By Alex Prewitt

“You’ve lost a couple games and you need to stop that before it rolls in the wrong area,” Coach Barry Trotz said, before his team faced the NHL’s least-winning squad.

By Alex Prewitt | 06:06 PM ET, 01/20/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:11 PM ET, 01/20/2015

Capitals GM Brian MacLellan talks Forsberg trade, Mike Green and Alex Ovechkin

By Alex Prewitt

Some miscellaneous topics from the general manager’s chat, more suited for a smorgasbord of random notes.

By Alex Prewitt | 03:11 PM ET, 01/20/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:15 PM ET, 01/20/2015

GM Brian MacLellan: Trade decisions to be ‘made off performance’ of young forwards

By Alex Prewitt

With the trade deadline coming roughly a month and a half from now, the Capitals’ general manager spoke with reporters about his views on the team’s current needs.

By Alex Prewitt | 02:15 PM ET, 01/20/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: NHL trade deadline

Posted at 05:21 PM ET, 01/19/2015

One game away from the All-Star break, Capitals welcoming rest

By Alex Prewitt

“When you’re mentally tired, the little aches and pains, they hurt a little bit worse,” defenseman Matt Niskanen said.

By Alex Prewitt | 05:21 PM ET, 01/19/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:25 PM ET, 01/19/2015

Trotz: Capitals ‘still need a piece or two’ for playoff push

By Alex Prewitt

The trade deadline is over a month away, but Washington’s bench boss was candid about his desire for more experience up front.

By Alex Prewitt | 03:25 PM ET, 01/19/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:30 PM ET, 01/18/2015

After consecutive defeats, Capitals see ‘huge’ game Tuesday against Edmonton

By Alex Prewitt

With the All-Star break on the horizon, Washington doesn’t want to limp into vacation with a loss against the NHL’s worst team.

By Alex Prewitt | 01:30 PM ET, 01/18/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:08 PM ET, 01/18/2015

Early deficits, late comebacks, ultimate losses define weekend for Caps

By Alex Prewitt

Valiant efforts against Nashville and Dallas were sandwiched by slow starts and bad finishes that gave Washington its first losing streak since early December.

By Alex Prewitt | 12:08 PM ET, 01/18/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:48 AM ET, 01/18/2015

Postgame: In losing another back-to-back, Caps needed crisper effort to help Peters

By Alex Prewitt

“That’s the nature of the job,” said the backup goaltender who made his first start since Nov. 29. “That’s what I signed up for.“

By Alex Prewitt | 12:48 AM ET, 01/18/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Justin Peters

Posted at 07:20 PM ET, 01/17/2015

Capitals at Stars: Game 45 discussion thread and pregame notes

By Alex Prewitt

After falling to Nashville, the Capitals try to avoid their first losing streak since early December.

By Alex Prewitt | 07:20 PM ET, 01/17/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:18 PM ET, 01/17/2015

After falling in Nashville, Capitals aim to avoid a losing streak

By Alex Prewitt

Coach Barry Trotz’s bunch hasn’t lost consecutive games since early December, but now backup Justin Peters gets the nod in Dallas.

By Alex Prewitt | 02:18 PM ET, 01/17/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:18 PM ET, 01/17/2015

Capitals hope Andre Burakovsky can mirror countryman Filip Forsberg’s growth

By Alex Prewitt

“Hope so,” Burakovsky said. “This is kind of a learning year for me.“

By Alex Prewitt | 12:18 PM ET, 01/17/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:29 AM ET, 01/17/2015

Postgame: Late penalty, turnover spoil Barry Trotz’s homecoming to Nashville

By Alex Prewitt

The emotions ran the gamut for the former Predators coach, none more prevailing than disappointment over the Capitals’ first regulation loss of 2015.

By Alex Prewitt | 12:29 AM ET, 01/17/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:18 PM ET, 01/16/2015

Capitals at Predators: Game 44 discussion thread

By Alex Prewitt

Barry Trotz returns to Nashville. There are some other storylines too.

By Alex Prewitt | 07:18 PM ET, 01/16/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:59 PM ET, 01/16/2015

With team success, Tom Wilson finds less need to fight

By Alex Prewitt

“If we’re playing good hockey, we’re playing a four-line game, we’re up in the game, anyone that knows the game knows that’s not really a good time for our side to fight,” Wilson said.

By Alex Prewitt | 04:59 PM ET, 01/16/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Tom Wilson

Posted at 04:25 PM ET, 01/16/2015

Nashville Predators reaping benefits of trading for Filip Forsberg

By Alex Prewitt

“If you get traded, there’s two ways you can look at it,” Forsberg said. “Either that one team doesn’t want you or the other team really wants you. I just decided to look at Nashville really wanted me,“

By Alex Prewitt | 04:25 PM ET, 01/16/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Filip Forsberg

Posted at 10:46 AM ET, 01/16/2015

Defenseman Nate Schmidt (shoulder blade) faces long recovery with optimism

By Alex Prewitt

Doctors feared a much worse injury than a fractured scapula and Schmidt’s confidence had gone in the tank before he went to Hershey.

By Alex Prewitt | 10:46 AM ET, 01/16/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:05 AM ET, 01/16/2015

The time Barry Trotz talked himself into a private B.B. King show wearing flip-flops

By Alex Prewitt

Plenty of stories will be told on the occasion of Trotz’s return to Nashville. This might be the best.

By Alex Prewitt | 09:05 AM ET, 01/16/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:41 PM ET, 01/15/2015

Nashville and Barry Trotz both ‘in good places’ on eve of reunion

By Alex Prewitt

The homecoming for the Capitals’ coach will be weird, hug-filled but, if Nashville general manager David Poile’s prediction comes true, a sense of normalcy too.

By Alex Prewitt | 12:41 PM ET, 01/15/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Barry Trotz

Posted at 12:15 PM ET, 01/15/2015

Nicklas Backstrom’s Olympic doping appeal resolved with reprimand

By Alex Prewitt

Backstrom will be allowed to keep his silver medal, though evidently that was not in jeopardy during the proceedings.

By Alex Prewitt | 12:15 PM ET, 01/15/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:33 AM ET, 01/15/2015

Niskanen’s jarring hit jolted Caps, inspired ‘Leave It To Beaver’ reference

By Alex Prewitt

“He’s like Eddie Haskell,” Coach Barry Trotz said. “He’s got the young face and all that. But he’ll run into you, give you the stick.”

By Alex Prewitt | 10:33 AM ET, 01/15/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:57 AM ET, 01/15/2015

Sporting facial stitches, Jason Chimera records a point for second straight game

By Alex Prewitt

“I think his acting and modeling career has gone the wayside of mine lately,” Coach Barry Trotz said.

By Alex Prewitt | 08:57 AM ET, 01/15/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:05 AM ET, 01/15/2015

Postgame: Capitals snatch another low-scoring, one-goal game

By Alex Prewitt

Braden Holtby earned his fourth shutout of the season, Jason Chimera scored less than four minutes into the night and Washington won its fourth game since early December when notching two goals or fewer.

By Alex Prewitt | 01:05 AM ET, 01/15/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:56 PM ET, 01/14/2015

Capitals vs. Flyers: Game 43 discussion thread

By Alex Prewitt

The final game before Barry Trotz’s return to Nashville commences in primetime at Verizon Center.

By Alex Prewitt | 06:56 PM ET, 01/14/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:24 PM ET, 01/14/2015

Capitals injury updates on Niskanen, Schmidt and Orlov

By Alex Prewitt

Niskanen should play vs. Philadelphia, Schmidt will rehab in both Hershey and Washington, and the Capitals are concerned about Orlov having ‘a failed year.’

By Alex Prewitt | 06:24 PM ET, 01/14/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:34 PM ET, 01/14/2015

Andre Burakovsky starting sixth straight at Capitals’ rotating-door right wing

By Alex Prewitt

The 19-year-old rookie has provided a measure of stability to the spot, but Coach Barry Trotz has often chosen the position based on matchup.

By Alex Prewitt | 02:34 PM ET, 01/14/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:22 AM ET, 01/14/2015

Capitals prospect Madison Bowey talks winning gold at world juniors

By Alex Prewitt

“Being able to sing ‘O Canada’ with a gold medal around my neck was pretty honorable,” the former second-round draft pick said.

By Alex Prewitt | 10:22 AM ET, 01/14/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Madison Bowey

Posted at 02:04 PM ET, 01/13/2015

Capitals balance aggression, restraint in six-on-five situations

By Alex Prewitt

When a goalie is pulled, Coach Barry Trotz takes a penalty-kill approach.

By Alex Prewitt | 02:04 PM ET, 01/13/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:46 AM ET, 01/13/2015

Against Colorado, Capitals’ fourth line was ‘really good’

By Alex Prewitt

Jay Beagle scored a goal. Jason Chimera cycled well and recorded an assist. Tom Wilson drew a penalty, by getting smacked in the face by a goaltender.

By Alex Prewitt | 09:46 AM ET, 01/13/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:47 PM ET, 01/12/2015

Capitals win sixth straight at Verizon Center

By Alex Prewitt

For the third time in regulation this season, the Capitals won a tight game when scoring two goals or fewer and continued their success at home.

By Alex Prewitt | 11:47 PM ET, 01/12/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:47 PM ET, 01/12/2015

Capitals vs. Avalanche: Game 42 discussion thread

By Alex Prewitt

The Capitals continue a three-game homestand, starting goaltender Braden Holtby for the 19th straight time.

By Alex Prewitt | 05:47 PM ET, 01/12/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:05 PM ET, 01/12/2015

Back from Hershey, Justin Peters ‘probably’ starting this weekend

By Alex Prewitt

Braden Holtby’s starts streak will grow to 19 Monday night against Colorado, but Coach Barry Trotz said Washington’s backup will make his first appearance since Nov. 29 soon.

By Alex Prewitt | 01:05 PM ET, 01/12/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:56 AM ET, 01/12/2015

Capitals defenseman Nate Schmidt fractures shoulder blade, out 6-8 weeks

By Alex Prewitt

“It’s hard for me to even put into words,” said Mike Green, Schmidt’s primary blue-line partner. “He’s such a good, young player.”

By Alex Prewitt | 11:56 AM ET, 01/12/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:24 AM ET, 01/12/2015

On pace for career-high numbers, Eric Fehr has ‘settled in’ at center

By Alex Prewitt

After shuttling across three lines to start the season, Fehr has spent 19 of the past 20 games between Brooks Laich and Joel Ward, and has now recorded points in six of seven.

By Alex Prewitt | 10:24 AM ET, 01/12/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:06 PM ET, 01/11/2015

Capitals react to Nicklas Backstrom’s All-Star absence: ‘It’s ridiculous’

By Alex Prewitt

But Backstrom seemed indifferent about the snub, despite being the only 40-point scorer averaging a point a game this season to miss the event in Columbus.

By Alex Prewitt | 03:06 PM ET, 01/11/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Nicklas Backstrom

Posted at 11:28 AM ET, 01/11/2015

Over past three games, Capitals’ penalty kill has ‘executed phenomenally’

By Alex Prewitt

Since the Winter Classic, Washington has taken fewer penalties and killed at roughly a 90 percent clip.

By Alex Prewitt | 11:28 AM ET, 01/11/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:46 PM ET, 01/10/2015

Postgame: ‘No sense of panic’ for Capitals after fast start against Detroit

By Alex Prewitt

After surging to a 3-0 lead, the Capitals withstood Detroit’s late push to win their fourth in five games.

By Alex Prewitt | 11:46 PM ET, 01/10/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:43 PM ET, 01/10/2015

Capitals vs. Red Wings: Game 41 discussion thread

By Alex Prewitt

Discuss the middle point of the Washington Capitals’ 2014-15 season.

By Alex Prewitt | 06:43 PM ET, 01/10/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:25 PM ET, 01/10/2015

Alex Ovechkin chosen to represent Capitals in 2015 NHL All-Star Game

By Alex Prewitt

Barry Trotz will not be pleased that Nicklas Backstrom was snubbed.

By Alex Prewitt | 06:25 PM ET, 01/10/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:29 PM ET, 01/10/2015

Goaltender Pheonix Copley embracing short stay with the Capitals

By Alex Prewitt

“I just want to soak it in,” Copley said. “We’ve got great guys here. I want to learn as much I can and watch how these guys prepare and take what I can from it.“

By Alex Prewitt | 01:29 PM ET, 01/10/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:01 PM ET, 01/10/2015

Trotz: Oleksy promoted as reward, Schmidt reassigned for ‘more touches’

By Alex Prewitt

Trotz explains sending Nate Schmidt to Hershey for two games and recalling Steve Oleksy in the interim.

By Alex Prewitt | 01:01 PM ET, 01/10/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Nate Schmidt, Steve Oleksy

Posted at 11:11 AM ET, 01/10/2015

Capitals recall Steve Oleksy, reassign Nate Schmidt to Hershey

By Alex Prewitt

More explanation to come from Coach Barry Trotz after the Capitals’ morning skate Saturday.

By Alex Prewitt | 11:11 AM ET, 01/10/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:25 PM ET, 01/09/2015

Caps send Peters to Hershey, call up Copley

By Alex Prewitt

Backup Justin Peters will get some needed work; rookie Pheonix Compley will back up Braden Holtby Saturday against the Red Wings.

By Alex Prewitt | 12:25 PM ET, 01/09/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:00 AM ET, 01/09/2015

Holtby is prepared to keep his streak alive

By Alex Prewitt

Caps goalie has no problem extending his consecutive starts mark, but upcoming back-to-back may end it.

By Alex Prewitt | 11:00 AM ET, 01/09/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:10 AM ET, 01/09/2015

Capitals frustrated in loss to Flyers, but continue to climb standings

By Alex Prewitt

On Dec. 3, the Capitals were a dozen points behind the New York Islanders. Now, they have trimmed the deficit to three.

By Alex Prewitt | 09:10 AM ET, 01/09/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:57 PM ET, 01/08/2015

Capitals suffer fourth loss while shorthanded in OT

By Alex Prewitt

Since Dec. 2, the Capitals have lost five times. Three of them have come while trying to kill penalties in overtime.

By Alex Prewitt | 11:57 PM ET, 01/08/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:57 PM ET, 01/08/2015

Capitals at Flyers: Game 40 discussion thread

By Alex Prewitt

Discuss the first meeting of the season between the Interstate 95 rivals.

By Alex Prewitt | 06:57 PM ET, 01/08/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:58 PM ET, 01/08/2015

Holtby breaking Caps’ consecutive appearance record; Peters to Hershey

By Alex Prewitt

Holtby will start for the second straight night as the Capitals visit the Flyers; backup Justin Peters will play two games on a conditioning loan with Hershey.

By Alex Prewitt | 05:58 PM ET, 01/08/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:56 AM ET, 01/08/2015

In first meeting with Flyers, Capitals expect typically physical affair

By Alex Prewitt

“It’s probably not a building you want to bring your kids to, that’s for sure,” defenseman Brooks Orpik said. “You’ll learn some new language, “

By Alex Prewitt | 10:56 AM ET, 01/08/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:49 AM ET, 01/08/2015

Brooks Laich, typically strong in high-traffic areas, again scores from deep

By Alex Prewitt

“Everyone calls them greasy goals,” Caps forward said. “There’s actually finesse and talent in going to a high-traffic area and finding space.“

By Alex Prewitt | 09:49 AM ET, 01/08/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Brooks Laich

Posted at 11:55 PM ET, 01/07/2015

Holtby strong in win vs. Toronto; Wilson passes concussion protocol

By Alex Prewitt

Now comes the tricky decision for the Capitals: Should Holtby receive his 23rd straight appearance to break the franchise record?

By Alex Prewitt | 11:55 PM ET, 01/07/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:17 PM ET, 01/07/2015

Capitals at Maple Leafs: Game 39 discussion thread

By Alex Prewitt

Peter Horachek makes his debut as Toronto’s interim head coach, with an old friend and longtime colleague manning the visiting bench at Air Canada Centre.

By Alex Prewitt | 05:17 PM ET, 01/07/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:15 PM ET, 01/07/2015

Heavily penalized Capitals ‘need discipline’ to limit whistles

By Alex Prewitt

No NHL team has averaged more shorthanded time since Dec. 23 than the Capitals, and their 29 total penalties

By Alex Prewitt | 03:15 PM ET, 01/07/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:35 PM ET, 01/07/2015

In Toronto, facing old assistant Horachek ‘special’ for Trotz

By Alex Prewitt

Horacheck was named the interim head coach of the Maple Leafs on Wednesday morning, and his first game comes against his old colleague in Nashville

By Alex Prewitt | 02:35 PM ET, 01/07/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:49 PM ET, 01/07/2015

Defenseman Matt Niskanen (lower body) game-time decision in Toronto

By Alex Prewitt

“I don’t know yet,” Niskanen said. “And that’s the truth, I actually don’t know yet.

By Alex Prewitt | 01:49 PM ET, 01/07/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Matt Niskanen

Posted at 01:56 PM ET, 01/06/2015

Trotz: Capitals will ‘hold off’ on returning Andre Burakovsky to center

By Alex Prewitt

The top-line right wing experiment went well, so the Capitals are letting this play out.

By Alex Prewitt | 01:56 PM ET, 01/06/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Andre Burakovsky

Posted at 09:54 AM ET, 01/06/2015

Capitals waiting to decide path for backup goalie Justin Peters

By Alex Prewitt

Justin Peters could start outright against Philadelphia, the Capitals could wait to see how Braden Holtby handles Toronto or, send him to Hershey.

By Alex Prewitt | 09:54 AM ET, 01/06/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:24 PM ET, 01/05/2015

Alex Ovechkin named NHL’s second star of the week

By Alex Prewitt

After three straight games with one point and one assist, Ovechkin earned some league-wide recognition.

By Alex Prewitt | 02:24 PM ET, 01/05/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:27 PM ET, 01/05/2015

Capitals defenseman Matt Niskanen day-to-day because of lower-body injury

By Alex Prewitt

Defenseman will skate with the team Tuesday, Coach Barry Trotz said, and should be a game-time decision for Wednesday’s visit to Toronto.

By Alex Prewitt | 01:27 PM ET, 01/05/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Matt Niskanen

Posted at 10:59 AM ET, 01/05/2015

Defenseman Karl Alzner sets new career high with three goals

By Alex Prewitt

Inside the celebration scrum, Alzner and his teammates were yelling about the milestone.

By Alex Prewitt | 10:59 AM ET, 01/05/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Karl Alzner

Posted at 07:49 PM ET, 01/04/2015

Another late five-on-three penalty kill boosted Capitals over Panthers

By Alex Prewitt

Coach Barry Trotz also had some strong words for the drawn penalty that put Washington at a two-man disadvantage.

By Alex Prewitt | 07:49 PM ET, 01/04/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:43 PM ET, 01/04/2015

Capitals vs. Panthers: Game 38 discussion thread

By Alex Prewitt

The Capitals look to avoid the brunch-time hangover when the Panthers visit Verizon Center

By Alex Prewitt | 01:43 PM ET, 01/04/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:30 AM ET, 01/04/2015

Capitals see important post-Winter Classic test in low-scoring Panthers

By Alex Prewitt

“It’s a tough game because they play that tough style of hockey,” forward Tom Wilson said, because their last meeting ended in a 20-round shootout.

By Alex Prewitt | 10:30 AM ET, 01/04/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:53 PM ET, 01/03/2015

Backup goaltender Justin Peters ‘hungrier than ever’ to play again

By Alex Prewitt

With Braden Holtby among the NHL’s best goaltenders in December, Peters hasn’t started since Nov. 29 , so he’s tried to stay fresh.

By Alex Prewitt | 03:53 PM ET, 01/03/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Justin Peters

Posted at 02:09 PM ET, 01/03/2015

Capitals trying Andre Burakovsky beside Alex Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom

By Alex Prewitt

Burakovsky will become the seventh right winger rushing with Ovechkin and Backstrom this season.

By Alex Prewitt | 02:09 PM ET, 01/03/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Andre Burakovsky

Posted at 12:09 PM ET, 01/02/2015

Between power play goal and 5-on-3 kill, Capitals’ special teams came up big

By Alex Prewitt

“To me, that was the tipping point of the game,” Coach Barry Trotz said of the big kill.

By Alex Prewitt | 12:09 PM ET, 01/02/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:30 AM ET, 01/02/2015

2015 Winter Classic link roundup: Relive the Capitals’ win

By Alex Prewitt

All the stories, dumped into one place.

By Alex Prewitt | 09:30 AM ET, 01/02/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:09 PM ET, 01/01/2015

‘Warrior’ Brooks Orpik led Capitals in ice time three days after injury scare

By Alex Prewitt

Orpik make the game-time decision himself and finished with 24:44 of total ice time.

By Alex Prewitt | 08:09 PM ET, 01/01/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:43 PM ET, 01/01/2015

Before beating the Blackhawks, Capitals soaked up Winter Classic experience

By Alex Prewitt

“Took a second there before the puck dropped at the start just to look around and realize how privileged we are to be in a game like this, an event like this,” Brooks Laich said.

By Alex Prewitt | 07:43 PM ET, 01/01/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:30 AM ET, 01/01/2015

Capitals vs. Blackhawks: Game 37 (and Winter Classic) discussion thread

By Alex Prewitt

Talk about the game with your fellow fans.

By Alex Prewitt | 11:30 AM ET, 01/01/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:00 AM ET, 01/01/2015

Despite Winter Classic pageantry, game has ‘an exhibition feel’

By Alex Prewitt

The cavernous feel and delayed sound make some NHLers feel ‘out in the middle of nowhere’

By Alex Prewitt | 11:00 AM ET, 01/01/2015 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Stats, scores and schedules

Capitals Insider: January, 2015