Top 3 key Capitals to watch against Hurricanes

#2 Ethan Bear

New Capitals defenseman Ethan Bear recorded his first point with the team with an assist on Jan 2. in a win at the Pittsburgh Penguins. He also logged 18:06 minutes of even strength ice time, which was the third highest total on the team.

During his Capitals debut at home against the Nashville Predators on Dec. 30, Bear logged 20:05 minutes of ice time and posted a plus one plus/minus rating. It was his first NHL game since April 13 and it came just days after he signed a two year contract with Washington on Dec. 28.

With Sandin out, look for Bear to have a good game offensively as Bear takes Sandin's spot on the second power play unit. It is a power play that got better but the offense still needs to play a full 60.

The other night against the Devils perfeclty summed up the entire Capitals season. They started cold. Got hot in the middle of the game. But then flamed out in the end.

To compete with a team like the Hurricanes, who are far better than the Devils, they have to protect the crease for a full 60. It doesn't matter who starts in goal and Bear will be relied upon as he adjusts more.