The last time the Washington Capitals and the Anaheim Ducks met there was quite a brush up. Will there be any follow up action to be seen, here is how to find out for yourself.
The Washington Capitals continued their hot streak by winning their 5th game in a row, including the 3rd game of a 4 game road trip, by beating the Kings 3-1.
John Carlson‘s career year continued toward an expected Norris Trophy with two goals in this matchup. IIya Samsonov showed some much needed improvement of his body control around the goal.
Samsonov would have registered his first shutout of the season had he played a puck behind the net better, instead he got caught out of position and allowed an easy score.
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The Caps appeared to be playing slower than usual, most likely due to this being the second of a back to back. The Kings were playing with ferocity, but when you are in the bottom of the standings you need a little luck to make the intensity worth the effort. Fortunately for the Caps, the Kings were not able to solve the mystery of Samsonov and found themselves playing from behind all night.
The reassembled penalty kill unit was put to the test with three penalties to kill off, and the return of Hagelin from injury paid off as he gave 3:55 of short handed time.
Another key piece in Nic Dowd contributed an additional 2:44 of short handed time. Radko Gudas managed to shake off the elbow to the head and return to action, and made an impact while delivering four hits. However, we are still awaiting the return of Nicklas Backstrom as he is still listed as day to day.
The team looks to conclude the road trip with a final matchup with the Anaheim Ducks. The last meeting didn’t end the best as it resulted in a serious altercation, which ended with Hathaway suspended for three games for spitting at Erik Gudbranson. The game finished with the Capitals winning 5-2, with the two goals from the Ducks giving a last minute push but ultimately being too little too late.
Since their last meeting the Capitals have gone 5-2, while the Ducks have been 2-4 coincidentally with their last win coming Monday against the Kings. Considering the tension the last game these two met, there will most certainly be some animosity at the outset.
For the Capitals to complete the road trip sweep they will need to keep calmer heads but not let off the pedal with the physicality. With the short break the Capitals will most certainly go back to Braden Holtby to close the door on the Ducks. Holtby will need to replicate the last game to further break his career trend where he is 4-4 with an 0.873 SV% and 3.73 GAA when facing the Ducks.
Here is how to follow along with the action:
Date: Dec. 6th
Time: 10:00 PM EST
Where: Honda Center
TV Broadcast: NBC Sports Washington
Radio: WJFK 106.7 The Fan, Caps Radio 24/7
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