Caps Prove Why They Are Among The Best-Caps 4, Habs 2

The Washington Capitals outshot the Montreal Canadiens badly and came away with a 4-2 victory. The Caps once again proved why they are a Stanley Cup contender. Carey Price got the call in goal for the Habs and made 39 saves, several of the spectacular variety. Josh Gorges and Benoit Pouilot scored for the Canadiens, who appeared to be afraid to make a mistake most of the night. The officiating continued to be "interesting". Case in point on the Caps first goal, Travis Moen took a high stick in the face (which was missed) and then Andrei Markov had his stick broken with a slash as he attempted to clear the puck. Washington was able to score shortly after leaving me cursing at the TV. The Habs were able to tie the game, but a brutal shift by Hal Gill led to a pair of Caps goals....1 off his foot and the other through his legs as he backed in on Price. A power play in the 3rd got the Canadiens within a goal, but another with under 7 minutes to go generated nothing close to a tieing strike. Michal Neuvirth made 24 saves in the Caps net. The PP went 1/3 while the PK gave up one questionable goal (as Moen was skating around with a stick in his eye and Markov with a broken stick). Some other thoughts:

>Pleks and Cammi had some cahnces, but couldn't capitalize. Pacs seemed to be a step behind them the whole game. Let's hope Big Tits isn't out for too long.

>Dags had an off night, serving the puck up on several occasions to Caps players. He certainly wasn't the only one, but 3 passes on Ovechkin's stick deserves mention.

>Gill and Mara continually backed in on top of Price which led to scoring chance after scoring chance. Spacek should avoid one timing the puck at all costs.

Not only did the Canadiens come up short, but the Canadians also lost at the WJHC. Congrats to Habs prospect Danny Kristo, but that was a tough loss....both games. The Silver Wolf Whiskey Hab of the Game tonight goes to Benoit Pouliot. Had a goal and several other good chances. Consideration also given to Gomez and Gionta. Next up the Panthers Thursday night at the Bell Centre.