Capitals: Top 3 key players to watch against Avalanche
John Carlson
John Carlson had a goal and an assist in Monday night’s defeat to the Islanders. It might have been one of the rare times Capitals fans booed Carlson as they initially thought the puck went off Ovechkin giving him 699. Sadly it wasn’t the case and the Capitals also lost 5-3.
Despite the loss, Carlson continued his case for the Norris Trophy. He has 52 assists which leads all defensemen and is second in the NHL to Leon Draisaitl who has 57 helpers. Carlson reached the 50 assist total in his 54th game and he’s the NHL’s fifth different defensemen in the last 30 years to reach that mark in 54 games or fewer.
Carlson also has 22 multi-point games which is eight more than the next closest defensemen, which is Nashville’s Roman Josi who has 14. It’s the third most multi-point games by a defensemen over the last five seasons and there’s still 26 games to spare. Carlson is on pace for 98 points by seasons end but can he get to 100 and put a stamp on a season where he should take home the Norris Trophy?
Not only is Carlson important for the Capitals now but he’s going to be important the next few seasons no matter who is in goal. It’s time for the defense to step up.