Capitals vs. Maple Leafs: Three Keys To Victory In Game 2

3. Special Teams

At even strength, the Capitals and Maple Leafs were roughly equal in Game 1. The Caps won the even strength Corsi battle, with chances slightly favoring the Caps 69 to 62. However, what won them the game was their special teams play. The Caps relied heavily on it in Game 1. If they can win the battle again in Game 2, it will be a huge help to their chances.

Both teams have excellent special teams. Washington got a power play goal in three opportunities. Even on the two power plays they didn’t score on, they used them effectively to wear out the Leafs and shift momentum in their favor. The Caps comeback began on the power play courtesy of Justin Williams. Washington pinned Toronto in their own zone, exhausting them. The Leafs’ fatigue hurt them in the last 37 minutes.

Washington also won the battle when they were shorthanded. Of course, it helps when you only commit one penalty. But as they say, the most effective way to have a good penalty kill is to rarely use it. Staying out of the penalty box against the Maple Leafs is a wise decision. But fans should be optimistic about their penalty kill being able to handle things because they held Toronto without a shot on their lone power play.