Washington Capitals: 5 keys to keeping the Stanley Cup
By Ron Juckett
WIN THE DIVISION
The easiest way to playoff success is storming through the regular season. But, as we know, the best laid plans of mice and men get caught in traps.
The last four years, the Caps won the Metropolitan Division. It helps to avoid the Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers in the first round. Over four best-of-seven series, having the first one against a weaker wild card is supposed to be easier.
Ask the Columbus Blue Jackets about easy series. Their six-game tilt last year was a nail-biting classic that had Washington on the brink before the series moved to Ohio.
Still, it is important to capture home ice against a weaker team. A fifth consecutive Metro crown ensures home ice advantage through the first two rounds. Although President’s Trophy’s are nice, they are overrated and bad things happen. Shh.
No, it is never impossible to win a championship from a lower-seed. Last year’s Caps proved they could win on the road when needed. But, it is important to get every advantage you can before the playoffs start.
By the time next April rolls around, those guys will skate on tired legs. The four rounds this spring, the shortened offseason and a full 82-game campaign will have the fittest of teams tired.
Series starting at home will help.