Top 3 key Capitals to watch against Kraken

#2 John Carlson

John Carlson is in the middle of possibly his best season yet. He recorded two assists on Wednesday night at Philadelphia, marking his fifth multi point game of the season and the 139th of his career.

Carlson is tied with Victor Hedman of the Tampa Bay Lightning for the fourth most multi point games among active defensemen. Brent Burns has 175, Erik Karlsson has 168 and Kris Letang has 151.

Carlson recorded both of his assists in the third period, including the primary assist on Dylan Strome’s game winning goal. Carlson’s three game winning assists this season rank tied for first on the Capitals with Erik Gustafsson, Alex Ovechkin and Strome.

Carlson has scored six of his eight goals this season in the third period. He also has recorded four of his eight assists in the third period.

Seven of Carlson’s eight goals have come when the Caps have trailed, with two being game tying goals. Those happened in October on the 17th against the Vancouver Canucks and the 22nd against the Los Angeles Kings.

Carlson’s eight goals this season rank tied for third among NHL defensemen. Carlson has recorded nine points in his last 11 games with six goals and three assists.