Quarter Season Capitals Review
Despite starting off with a record of 5-5, the Capitals finished the quarter winning ten of their last eleven games and currently hold sole possession of the top spot in the league. Records of 9-2-0 at home and 6-4-0 away from the Verizon Center are both near the top of the league; however, the season is long and only a few points seperate first place and eighth. The second place Lightning are only four points back of the division lead with three games in hand, but with the acquisitions of ten-time All-Star Martin Brodeur and five-time Art Ross winner Jaromir Jagr, as well as the emergence of youngsters Steven Stamkos and Victor Hedman, it's no surprise they've completely turned around from their last-place finish in 2009.
Alexander Ovechkin and a strong supporting cast have consistently provided offense, yet the team has played solid on defense as well, trailing only the Edmonton Oilers and tying with the rival Lightning for lowest goals against average in the league (2.33). Rookie goaltender Simeon Varlamov has played 20 of the 21 games so far and has won 15 of them, but he's only had to play average to win. Facing an average of just 18.7 shots per game, he has made the saves needed at the right time, and stole the starting position from veteran and upcoming free agent Jose Theodore.
It is rumored that Theodore will not be retained after the season, especially with young goaltenders Braden Holtby and Michal Neuvirth developing strong from the minors. Other rumors suggest that management may be looking for a first line winger to complement Ovechkin so Alexander Semin can shift to his natural position of left wing on the second line, and that the team is looking to acquire a top defenseman to play with the slumping Mike Green and free him from too much defensive responsibility. After being recalled from Hershey early in the season, rookie Karl Alzner has steadily improved playing on the bottom pairing; he may be expected to become that top defenseman management is looking for. However, he has also been mentioned in the trade rumors.
Look for the Capitals to focus on improving their special teams for the second quarter. Although the powerplay is looking a lot better lately than it was at the start of the season, the team ranks at the bottom half of the league in efficiency, despite top forwards Ovechkin and Nikolai Zherdev leading the way with 11 powerplay goals and 21 powerplay points combined. The opposite can be said for the penalty kill. After starting the season strong, Washington's shorthanded units have struggled lately and have dropped to the middle of the league and fourth in the Southeast division, only ahead the Florida Panthers. However, their three shorthanded goals are tied for first in the league in that department; ironically, the division rivals Atlanta and Tampa Bay hold the tie.
Team MVP: Alexander Ovechkin (11 goals, 20 points, 3 game-winning goals in 21 games)
Biggest surprise: Robert Lang (5 goals, 15 points, +10 in 17 games), signed early in the season, and Brett Clark (1 goal, 7 points, +6 in 9 games), acquired via trade from Colorado
Biggest disappointment: Mike Green (2 goals in 21 games)
Predictions for the second-quarter: Ovechkin takes over the league lead in goals. Special teams improve. Zherdev gets a contract offer from the KHL and threatens to return to Russia.
The Washington Post
Moderator: SharksGM
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CapsGM
Re: The Washington Post
Third Quarter Season Capitals Review
An unfortunate arm injury to Alexander Ovechkin left the Washington Capitals reeling with a 2-2-2 record before the Olympic break, but with a healthy Ovechkin and the acquisition of center Olli Jokinen, the Capitals look to rebuild the streaks that put them at the top of the league the first half of the season. Being just two points out of first place in the Southeast and East, and three points back from Phoenix for the President’s Trophy, the team is excited to get back to the ice after enjoying some time in Vancouver watching Team Canada destroy the (gold medal) podium.
With four twenty goal scorers, the offense has provided some good but sometimes inconsistent scoring. Despite missing the last six games, Ovechkin still leads the team with 24 goals and 32 points playing 56 games, and his presence has been missed on both ends of the ice; a disappointing 1-0 shootout loss to Ottawa where the team managed just 13 shots was followed up by a 5-4 shootout loss to St. Louis. Although the blame could have easily be put on rookie goaltender Semyon Varlamov, who did not make a save in either shootout, coach Bruce Boudreau called out the entire team for their poor efforts, especially in the Ottawa game where Varlamov did everything he could in regulation to help the team win. Despite some mediocre games lately, he is still near the top of the league in the major statistical categories for goaltenders, despite playing only six NHL games prior to this season. “He’s a rookie, he’s still learning, and he’s doing all that he can to help the team win”, Boudreau said of Varlamov. “For all the times he’s bailed the team out, he shouldn’t deserved to be singled out after one or two bad games when the team in front of him needs to step up. He’s been working with Jose [Theodore] on shootout techniques and I hope that practise will help him.”
Ironically in a bit of a shake up move, Jose Theodore was dealt in a trade for Olli Jokinen shortly after Boudreau’s statement (pending a league review of the trade). A former Hart trophy winner and one of the better shootout goalies in the league, Theodore was never able to get much playing time after Varlamov took the starting job early in the season. 21 year old Czech goalie Michal Neuvirth looks poised to take the backup spot, and Braden Holtby and newly signed Jeff Glass are expected to share duties with Hershey. Other players involved in the trade included the talented Russian center Andrei Loktionov and recent acquisition Alexei Ponikarovsky. With Jokinen and recently acquired winger Milan Hejduk, the top six looks to be dangerous. There are still rumors that the team is looking for an experienced, top pairing defenseman to provide some consistency on the back end.
Team MVP: Alexander Ovechkin (24 goals, 60 points, 7 game-winning goals in 56 games)
Unsung Hero: Bryan Allen (112 takeaways, 117 hits, +14 in 62 games)
Biggest disappointment: Brooks Laich (4 goals in 49 games)
An unfortunate arm injury to Alexander Ovechkin left the Washington Capitals reeling with a 2-2-2 record before the Olympic break, but with a healthy Ovechkin and the acquisition of center Olli Jokinen, the Capitals look to rebuild the streaks that put them at the top of the league the first half of the season. Being just two points out of first place in the Southeast and East, and three points back from Phoenix for the President’s Trophy, the team is excited to get back to the ice after enjoying some time in Vancouver watching Team Canada destroy the (gold medal) podium.
With four twenty goal scorers, the offense has provided some good but sometimes inconsistent scoring. Despite missing the last six games, Ovechkin still leads the team with 24 goals and 32 points playing 56 games, and his presence has been missed on both ends of the ice; a disappointing 1-0 shootout loss to Ottawa where the team managed just 13 shots was followed up by a 5-4 shootout loss to St. Louis. Although the blame could have easily be put on rookie goaltender Semyon Varlamov, who did not make a save in either shootout, coach Bruce Boudreau called out the entire team for their poor efforts, especially in the Ottawa game where Varlamov did everything he could in regulation to help the team win. Despite some mediocre games lately, he is still near the top of the league in the major statistical categories for goaltenders, despite playing only six NHL games prior to this season. “He’s a rookie, he’s still learning, and he’s doing all that he can to help the team win”, Boudreau said of Varlamov. “For all the times he’s bailed the team out, he shouldn’t deserved to be singled out after one or two bad games when the team in front of him needs to step up. He’s been working with Jose [Theodore] on shootout techniques and I hope that practise will help him.”
Ironically in a bit of a shake up move, Jose Theodore was dealt in a trade for Olli Jokinen shortly after Boudreau’s statement (pending a league review of the trade). A former Hart trophy winner and one of the better shootout goalies in the league, Theodore was never able to get much playing time after Varlamov took the starting job early in the season. 21 year old Czech goalie Michal Neuvirth looks poised to take the backup spot, and Braden Holtby and newly signed Jeff Glass are expected to share duties with Hershey. Other players involved in the trade included the talented Russian center Andrei Loktionov and recent acquisition Alexei Ponikarovsky. With Jokinen and recently acquired winger Milan Hejduk, the top six looks to be dangerous. There are still rumors that the team is looking for an experienced, top pairing defenseman to provide some consistency on the back end.
Team MVP: Alexander Ovechkin (24 goals, 60 points, 7 game-winning goals in 56 games)
Unsung Hero: Bryan Allen (112 takeaways, 117 hits, +14 in 62 games)
Biggest disappointment: Brooks Laich (4 goals in 49 games)
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Virtual Jarmo
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Re: The Washington Post
Adam Burke
Former Commissioner, Current Jackets GM and Owner of Eastside's Hockey Elite Collide
Former Commissioner, Current Jackets GM and Owner of Eastside's Hockey Elite Collide
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CapsGM
Washington Capitals Draft Review
Although the Capitals did not have a draft choice until the fourth round, general manager Tim Gaw was still fairly busy and very happy with the five selections and two trades that he had in the last four rounds. Now holding two first round picks and two second round picks for the 2011 draft, Washington seems to be stockpiling picks for the future, which was evident after they took a gamble and traded their first two picks (#52 overall and #66 overall) to Carolina for the Hurricanes' 2011 first. Gone is the Russian sniper and the team's second-leading scorer in Alexander Semin; new players with the organization are physical defenseman Mike Komisarek, a future Hall Of Fame winger in Teemu "Finnish Flash" Selanne, and five young draft picks: forwards Artemy Panarin, Jason Zucker, Mauro Jorg, Vitaly Karamnov, and defenseman Dominik Bittner.
Artemy Panarin, RW
Drafted: 4th round, 112 overall
Height: 5'9, Weight: 154lbs
The scouting staff was looking to select several defensemen after the defense was badly exposed in the first round of the playoffs against Ottawa; however, they completely went against that philosophy and chose yet another offensive Russian winger with their first pick. Ecstatic that Panarin was still available, the Capitals hope that he can someday replace Semin's spot in the top six.
Dominik Bittner, D
Drafted: 5th round, 133 overall
Height: 6'6, Weight: 214lbs
With Komisarek and Bittner joining the organization, Washington somewhat addressed the need for a more physical defensive core; Bittner's upside is a potential #6/#7 defenseman, but the safe bet would probably be a minor-league bruising defenseman with somewhat decent offensive talent. The scouting staff compared him to "Scott Stevens, but without the talent".
Jason Zucker, LW
Drafted: 5th round, 142 overall
Height: 5'11, Weight: 174lbs
Washington drafted another offensive forward with their next pick. With decent stickhandling strength and no terribly glaring weaknesses, Zucker could be a solid player for the Hershey Bears soon and could even see some spot duty in the NHL; however, unless his defensive (and offensive) abilities exceed his potential, he will be an expendable player to the organization.
Mauro Jorg, LW
Drafted: 6th round, 172 overall
Height: 6'0, Weight: 192lbs
Jorg looks to have decent two-way abilities to add to the lacking forward depth of the Hershey Bears. At 20 years of age, he can immediately be signed to the AHL team. Like Jason Zucker, he doesn't have any glaring holes in his game, but he brings nothing special and will see even less time in the NHL than Zucker.
Vitaly Karamnov, C
Drafted: 7th round, 202 overall
Height: 6'1, Weight: 176lbs
With their last pick of the 2010 draft, Washington couldn't resist selecting another one-way Russian forward. With crazy offensive abilities, but little in the way of defense, consistency, effort, or even passion for the game of hockey, Karamnov has the boom-or-bust potential to become a top player in the AHL or beer leagues, but it's very unlikely that he will ever mold that offensive talent into a NHL-worthy skillset.
Regardless, +10 ceilings to Karamnov's positioning and hitting.
It was either him or Jorg, so I don't have much of a choice.
Artemy Panarin, RW
Drafted: 4th round, 112 overall
Height: 5'9, Weight: 154lbs
The scouting staff was looking to select several defensemen after the defense was badly exposed in the first round of the playoffs against Ottawa; however, they completely went against that philosophy and chose yet another offensive Russian winger with their first pick. Ecstatic that Panarin was still available, the Capitals hope that he can someday replace Semin's spot in the top six.
Dominik Bittner, D
Drafted: 5th round, 133 overall
Height: 6'6, Weight: 214lbs
With Komisarek and Bittner joining the organization, Washington somewhat addressed the need for a more physical defensive core; Bittner's upside is a potential #6/#7 defenseman, but the safe bet would probably be a minor-league bruising defenseman with somewhat decent offensive talent. The scouting staff compared him to "Scott Stevens, but without the talent".
Jason Zucker, LW
Drafted: 5th round, 142 overall
Height: 5'11, Weight: 174lbs
Washington drafted another offensive forward with their next pick. With decent stickhandling strength and no terribly glaring weaknesses, Zucker could be a solid player for the Hershey Bears soon and could even see some spot duty in the NHL; however, unless his defensive (and offensive) abilities exceed his potential, he will be an expendable player to the organization.
Mauro Jorg, LW
Drafted: 6th round, 172 overall
Height: 6'0, Weight: 192lbs
Jorg looks to have decent two-way abilities to add to the lacking forward depth of the Hershey Bears. At 20 years of age, he can immediately be signed to the AHL team. Like Jason Zucker, he doesn't have any glaring holes in his game, but he brings nothing special and will see even less time in the NHL than Zucker.
Vitaly Karamnov, C
Drafted: 7th round, 202 overall
Height: 6'1, Weight: 176lbs
With their last pick of the 2010 draft, Washington couldn't resist selecting another one-way Russian forward. With crazy offensive abilities, but little in the way of defense, consistency, effort, or even passion for the game of hockey, Karamnov has the boom-or-bust potential to become a top player in the AHL or beer leagues, but it's very unlikely that he will ever mold that offensive talent into a NHL-worthy skillset.
Regardless, +10 ceilings to Karamnov's positioning and hitting.
It was either him or Jorg, so I don't have much of a choice.-
SharksGM
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Re: Washington Capitals Draft Review
Ah yes, like Travis Green used to play like Sidney Crosby without the talent.CapsGM wrote:"Scott Stevens, but without the talent".
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CapsGM
Re: The Washington Post
Washington Capitals 2011 Midseason Review
With a record of 24-12-2, the Capitals currently sit in second place in the Southeast division and fourth in the Eastern conference, four points and two games back of the defending champion Lightning. Despite winning eight straight games earlier in the month, the Caps have struggled as of late, dropping four of their last six games, including three straight at home. If Washington hopes to stay competitive for the stretch run, the special teams and the team’s top players must step up more consistently.
Midseason Grades: Forwards
C Olli Jokinen – A
Stats: 38GP - 15G-28A-43P; projection: 30G-62A-92P
Currently fourth in league scoring, Jokinen’s struggles have coincided with the overall play of the team (goalless in six, pointless in three). However, he should likely continue to be among the league leaders in points – ever since his acquisition from Calgary last year, he’s produced one of the highest point-per-game averages in the league, and his five game-winning goals are tied for third in the league.
L Brian Boyle – A
Stats: 38GP - 12-19-31; projection: 22-36-58
Boyle has continued to surprise despite centering on the third line for the majority of the season. His 31 points, 12 powerplay points (from the second unit), and 81 hits are good for second on the team. Look for him to play a more important role to the team in the second half of the season, but it’s unlikely that he keeps this pace up.
C Jarret Stoll – A-
Stats: 37GP - 13-15-28; projection: 21-33-54
Acquired earlier in the season, Stoll was brought in to win key faceoffs, provide a solid defensive presence to the second line and occasionally chip in, and he has done just that.
R Milan Hejduk – B+
Stats: 38GP - 15-14-29; projection: 36-31-67
Tied for the team lead with 15 goals, Hejduk looks poised to reach his tenth straight 20-goal season. However, management expects a little more from the veteran.
R Anthony Stewart – B+
Stats: 38GP - 6-9-15; projection: 13-20-33
Beast.
L Oskar Osala – B
Stats: 38GP - 5-9-14; projection: 9-21-30
Tied for eighth in rookie scoring. If he didn’t have hands of stone he could score a lot more. Maybe he should just stop shooting (6.9 shooting percentage on 72 shots).
R Alexander Ovechkin – B-
Stats: 38GP - 15-14-29; projection: 40-36-76
Despite being tied for the team lead in goals, AO is playing below expectations and must play better in order for the Capitals to succeed.
L Nicklas Backstrom – B-
Stats: 38GP - 10-13-23; projection: 21-40-61
Occasional flashes of brilliance mixed with disappearing acts (goalless in eight after a hat trick against Atlanta). A move to the wing has helped to hide his terrible faceoff deficiencies and utilize his speed greater, but his production has still been a disappointment so far despite premier playmaking abilities.
L Teemu Selanne – B-
Stats: 33GP - 9-6-15; projection: 20-18-38
A shell of his former self, despite flashes of the game-breaking ability he showed in his younger years. For $1.5 million, his production is on par. This could be his last year.
C David Steckel – B-
Stats: 38GP - 4-5-9; projection: 9-11-20
Provides a solid presence to the bottom six and penalty kill, but his roster spot is nearly obsolete with Osala/Boyle/Stewart in the mix. Now slightly overpaid for what he provides, he may be on the way out.
R Nikolai Zherdev – C+
Stats: 34GP - 9-8-17; projection: 18-23-41
Constant disappearances. Healthy scratches. Demotion to the fourth line. Fights like shit. Yeah, he’s fallen out of favour. Good thing he’s signed for $23 million until 2015.
C Kamil Kreps – C+
Stats: 33GP - 3-3-6; projection: 6-8-14
Meh.
R Bill Guerin – C
Stats: 33GP - 1-6-7; projection: 2-10-12
Team punching bag who takes stupid penalties. His recent play has been terrible despite a five game point streak start to the season; the only thing preventing his demotion/buy-out is his off-ice leadership abilities.
Midseason Grades: Defense
D Mike Green – A
Stats: 38GP - 5-23-28; projection: 10-51-61
Being tied for ninth in the league in assists as a defenseman is an impressive stat. Combine that with his much-improved defensive play (only 25 giveaways so far and a team-leading and meaningless +18), and his name once again gets dropped undeservingly in Norris contention.
D Andrei Markov – A
Stats: 38GP - 7-21-28; projection: 13-46-59
Currently tied with teammate Mike Green for first in defenseman scoring, Markov should come close to reaching his career-best numbers.
D Karl Alzner – B+
Stats: 38GP - 0-5-5; projection: 2-17-19
One of the best young defenders in the league defensively and he’s still getting better.
D Mike Komisarek – B
Stats: 38GP - 2-10-12; projection: 5-20-25
Komisarek has settled in better after a terrible start to the season (+/- currently at -3 after reaching -9 earlier), coincidentally after being paired with his old defense partner Andrei Markov.
D Josh Godfrey – B-
Stats: 19GP - 1-2-3; projection: 3-7-10
The third rookie on the roster, Godfrey has not looked out of place since his call-up. He’s solidifying his spot on the third pairing and playing better each game.
D Dmitri Kalinin – C+
Stats: 38GP - 0-7-7; projection: 2-15-17
For a player making the league minimum, Kalinin has exceeded expectations; however, management would rather have a more sound and consistent defender on the third pairing. Look for Kalinin to be replaced by a player through trade or from Hershey if his play does not pick up soon.
Midseason Grades: Goatlenders
G Simeon Varlamov – B-
Stats: 38GP – 21W-10L-2OTL; projection: 44-23-5
We're seeing a much different Varlamov that won the Calder last year, but his play has picked up as of late. His .886 save percentage and 2.56 goals against average is surprisingly average for the current state of EHEC starting goaltenders.
G Braden Holtby – C+
Stats: 5GP – 3W-2L-0OTL; projection: 7-3-0
Average backup numbers for a rookie goalie. The coaching staff’s lack of faith with him suggests that management may opt to sign a veteran UFA before the regular season ends.
With a record of 24-12-2, the Capitals currently sit in second place in the Southeast division and fourth in the Eastern conference, four points and two games back of the defending champion Lightning. Despite winning eight straight games earlier in the month, the Caps have struggled as of late, dropping four of their last six games, including three straight at home. If Washington hopes to stay competitive for the stretch run, the special teams and the team’s top players must step up more consistently.
Midseason Grades: Forwards
C Olli Jokinen – A
Stats: 38GP - 15G-28A-43P; projection: 30G-62A-92P
Currently fourth in league scoring, Jokinen’s struggles have coincided with the overall play of the team (goalless in six, pointless in three). However, he should likely continue to be among the league leaders in points – ever since his acquisition from Calgary last year, he’s produced one of the highest point-per-game averages in the league, and his five game-winning goals are tied for third in the league.
L Brian Boyle – A
Stats: 38GP - 12-19-31; projection: 22-36-58
Boyle has continued to surprise despite centering on the third line for the majority of the season. His 31 points, 12 powerplay points (from the second unit), and 81 hits are good for second on the team. Look for him to play a more important role to the team in the second half of the season, but it’s unlikely that he keeps this pace up.
C Jarret Stoll – A-
Stats: 37GP - 13-15-28; projection: 21-33-54
Acquired earlier in the season, Stoll was brought in to win key faceoffs, provide a solid defensive presence to the second line and occasionally chip in, and he has done just that.
R Milan Hejduk – B+
Stats: 38GP - 15-14-29; projection: 36-31-67
Tied for the team lead with 15 goals, Hejduk looks poised to reach his tenth straight 20-goal season. However, management expects a little more from the veteran.
R Anthony Stewart – B+
Stats: 38GP - 6-9-15; projection: 13-20-33
Beast.
L Oskar Osala – B
Stats: 38GP - 5-9-14; projection: 9-21-30
Tied for eighth in rookie scoring. If he didn’t have hands of stone he could score a lot more. Maybe he should just stop shooting (6.9 shooting percentage on 72 shots).
R Alexander Ovechkin – B-
Stats: 38GP - 15-14-29; projection: 40-36-76
Despite being tied for the team lead in goals, AO is playing below expectations and must play better in order for the Capitals to succeed.
L Nicklas Backstrom – B-
Stats: 38GP - 10-13-23; projection: 21-40-61
Occasional flashes of brilliance mixed with disappearing acts (goalless in eight after a hat trick against Atlanta). A move to the wing has helped to hide his terrible faceoff deficiencies and utilize his speed greater, but his production has still been a disappointment so far despite premier playmaking abilities.
L Teemu Selanne – B-
Stats: 33GP - 9-6-15; projection: 20-18-38
A shell of his former self, despite flashes of the game-breaking ability he showed in his younger years. For $1.5 million, his production is on par. This could be his last year.
C David Steckel – B-
Stats: 38GP - 4-5-9; projection: 9-11-20
Provides a solid presence to the bottom six and penalty kill, but his roster spot is nearly obsolete with Osala/Boyle/Stewart in the mix. Now slightly overpaid for what he provides, he may be on the way out.
R Nikolai Zherdev – C+
Stats: 34GP - 9-8-17; projection: 18-23-41
Constant disappearances. Healthy scratches. Demotion to the fourth line. Fights like shit. Yeah, he’s fallen out of favour. Good thing he’s signed for $23 million until 2015.
C Kamil Kreps – C+
Stats: 33GP - 3-3-6; projection: 6-8-14
Meh.
R Bill Guerin – C
Stats: 33GP - 1-6-7; projection: 2-10-12
Team punching bag who takes stupid penalties. His recent play has been terrible despite a five game point streak start to the season; the only thing preventing his demotion/buy-out is his off-ice leadership abilities.
Midseason Grades: Defense
D Mike Green – A
Stats: 38GP - 5-23-28; projection: 10-51-61
Being tied for ninth in the league in assists as a defenseman is an impressive stat. Combine that with his much-improved defensive play (only 25 giveaways so far and a team-leading and meaningless +18), and his name once again gets dropped undeservingly in Norris contention.
D Andrei Markov – A
Stats: 38GP - 7-21-28; projection: 13-46-59
Currently tied with teammate Mike Green for first in defenseman scoring, Markov should come close to reaching his career-best numbers.
D Karl Alzner – B+
Stats: 38GP - 0-5-5; projection: 2-17-19
One of the best young defenders in the league defensively and he’s still getting better.
D Mike Komisarek – B
Stats: 38GP - 2-10-12; projection: 5-20-25
Komisarek has settled in better after a terrible start to the season (+/- currently at -3 after reaching -9 earlier), coincidentally after being paired with his old defense partner Andrei Markov.
D Josh Godfrey – B-
Stats: 19GP - 1-2-3; projection: 3-7-10
The third rookie on the roster, Godfrey has not looked out of place since his call-up. He’s solidifying his spot on the third pairing and playing better each game.
D Dmitri Kalinin – C+
Stats: 38GP - 0-7-7; projection: 2-15-17
For a player making the league minimum, Kalinin has exceeded expectations; however, management would rather have a more sound and consistent defender on the third pairing. Look for Kalinin to be replaced by a player through trade or from Hershey if his play does not pick up soon.
Midseason Grades: Goatlenders
G Simeon Varlamov – B-
Stats: 38GP – 21W-10L-2OTL; projection: 44-23-5
We're seeing a much different Varlamov that won the Calder last year, but his play has picked up as of late. His .886 save percentage and 2.56 goals against average is surprisingly average for the current state of EHEC starting goaltenders.
G Braden Holtby – C+
Stats: 5GP – 3W-2L-0OTL; projection: 7-3-0
Average backup numbers for a rookie goalie. The coaching staff’s lack of faith with him suggests that management may opt to sign a veteran UFA before the regular season ends.
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CapsGM
Washington Capitals Draft Preview
Washington's head scouts and most of the other general managers have toiled away preparing for the draft since the playoffs ended. However, general manager Tim Gaw has spent his time sipping on gin on the beach with full confidence that his scouting staff can make a couple steals with the average selections they have to work with. Washington currently holds nine picks in the 2011 EHEC Entry Draft and looks to acquire more.
First round, 27th overall (via Carolina Hurricanes)
Second round, 53rd overall
Third round, 63rd overall (via Colorado Avalanche)
Fourth round, 98th overall (via Winnipeg Franchise)
Fourth round, 106th overall (via Columbus Blue Jackets, via Philadelphia Flyers)
Fifth round, 121st overall (via Detroit Red Wings)
Fifth round, 131st overall (via Colorado Avalanche, via Edmonton Oilers)
Sixth round, 173rd overall
Seventh round, 203rd overall
The scouting staff this year has eyed players with decent size and consistency. It is quite unlikely that a defender with top four potential would still be available at 27 this year. With young defensemen such as Josh Godfrey, Andrei Plekhanov, Colby Cohen, and Dominik Bittner fighting for spots on the pro roster, the Capitals may pursue a center, as many prospects with second- or third-line potential should still be on the board.
Although many of the goaltenders eligible for the 2011 draft have not yet been scouted, the Capitals do not feel the pressure to draft a goalie early. 23-year-old Semyon Varlamov has emerged as a top (regular season <_<) goaltender, and Braden Holtby and Michal Neuvirth will compete to back him up. The organization feels like the goaltending position will remain stable for the next few years.
Despite the mediocre quality of the picks that Washington holds this year, the abundance of picks in the later rounds should at least help the Hershey Bears refill the depth they will inevitably lose in the off-season. Look for the Capitals to draft a lot of forwards, as it will help the future of both the pro and farm rosters - tentatively, Hershey only has ten forwards under contract for next year. With two underage slots available, it looks likely that the top draft choices will immediately play in the minors.
First round, 27th overall (via Carolina Hurricanes)
Second round, 53rd overall
Third round, 63rd overall (via Colorado Avalanche)
Fourth round, 98th overall (via Winnipeg Franchise)
Fourth round, 106th overall (via Columbus Blue Jackets, via Philadelphia Flyers)
Fifth round, 121st overall (via Detroit Red Wings)
Fifth round, 131st overall (via Colorado Avalanche, via Edmonton Oilers)
Sixth round, 173rd overall
Seventh round, 203rd overall
The scouting staff this year has eyed players with decent size and consistency. It is quite unlikely that a defender with top four potential would still be available at 27 this year. With young defensemen such as Josh Godfrey, Andrei Plekhanov, Colby Cohen, and Dominik Bittner fighting for spots on the pro roster, the Capitals may pursue a center, as many prospects with second- or third-line potential should still be on the board.
Although many of the goaltenders eligible for the 2011 draft have not yet been scouted, the Capitals do not feel the pressure to draft a goalie early. 23-year-old Semyon Varlamov has emerged as a top (regular season <_<) goaltender, and Braden Holtby and Michal Neuvirth will compete to back him up. The organization feels like the goaltending position will remain stable for the next few years.
Despite the mediocre quality of the picks that Washington holds this year, the abundance of picks in the later rounds should at least help the Hershey Bears refill the depth they will inevitably lose in the off-season. Look for the Capitals to draft a lot of forwards, as it will help the future of both the pro and farm rosters - tentatively, Hershey only has ten forwards under contract for next year. With two underage slots available, it looks likely that the top draft choices will immediately play in the minors.
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CapsGM
Washington Capitals Draft Review
This off-season saw the Washington Capitals restock a very bare looking pool of prospects through nine picks in the 2011 EHEC Entry Draft along with acquisitions of promising youngsters such as Colby Cohen, Nikita Gusev, Brian Lashoff. With their picks, Washington drafted six forwards and three defensemen. Capitals fans can get excited that management has the skills to emphasize youth in the organization while still providing a competitive team to watch. The possibility that the National Basketball Association will not have a 2012 season puts even more pressure and attention on the Capitals next year - D.C. fans will be sorely disappointed if the on-ice product is shit. Expect to see Washington Wizards point guard John Wall teaching the Russians how to Dougie in order to entertain the fans, because a third straight postseason fail would undoubtedly see animosity and riots of similar magnitude to the classless Vancouver assholes.
Only nine players (Karl Alzner, Matt Bradley, Josh Godfrey, Oskar Osala, Alexander Ovechkin, Jeff Schultz, David Steckel, Jose Theodore, and Semyon Varlamov) that started the league with Washington still remain on the pro roster after two seasons. Another off-season revamp saw players such as Nicklas Backstrom, Mike Green, Milan Hejduk, Teemu Selanne, and Nikolai Zherdev traded from the organization, mostly due to the new league’s financial policies forcing the Capitals to clear salary in order to retain their RFAs. With a high volume of personnel change for the third straight season, many pundits worry about potential problems regarding team chemistry and player adjustment. However, newcomer Pavel Datsyuk has had previous experience playing with the other high-profile Russians in international tournaments, and the Capitals are hoping that a Datsyuk/Ovechkin duo will perform as dangerously as the name dropping sounds on paper. The team has gotten slightly younger, but is still as talented as it has been since the start of the league.
2011 draftees:
Gregory Hofmann, C
Drafted: 1st round, 19th overall
84POT, 76CON, 6’0, 170lbs
Potential: Two-way second-line forward
Comparable to: Jarret Stoll
For their highest draft pick since 2007, Washington was pleased to see that Swiss center Gregory Hofmann was still available. With no glaring weaknesses in his game aside from skating, Hofmann should immediately begin his professional career with Hershey before joining the Capitals full-time possibly as soon as 2012-2013.
Nikita Tochitsky, C
Drafted: 2nd round, 53rd overall
66POT, 78CON, 6’2, 167lbs
Potential: Top-six forward
Comparable to: Saku Koivu
Washington took a gamble by selecting overager Nikita Tochitsky with the 53rd overall pick. Although he turns 20 this summer, Tochitsky can still become even better than his current potential shows. The Capitals have already offered him a contract and he will likely play a big role in the Hershey Bears youth movement next season. However, it is very uncertain whether he will become a good player in the EHEC or simply another great player in the AHL.
Max Friberg, LW
Drafted: 3rd round, 63rd overall
83POT, 54CON, 5’11, 185lbs
Potential: Inconsistent second-line forward
Comparable to: Alexei Kovalev
Despite the Capitals’ claims of drafting consistency and size this year, they could not pass up drafting a small, inconsistent forward with the 63rd pick. Too bad Nikolai Zherdev was recently traded, as he could have taught Friberg the ways to properly coast and play like a fringe ECHLer half the game. If he ever develops properly, Friberg may get a shot at making the Capitals in 2013 or 2014.
Matt Killian, D
Drafted: 3rd round, 76th overall
65POT, 78CON, 6’1, 191lbs
Potential: Top four defenseman, PPQB
Comparable to: John-Michael Liles
With their second pick in the third round, Washington selected defenseman Matt Killian. The Capitals have high hopes for the young defenseman to steadily improve into a top four defenseman in 2-3 years. At worst, his well-rounded talent alone can make him a steady defender for Hershey.
Seth Ambroz, RW
Drafted: 4th round, 98th overall
66POT, 70CON, 6’2, 211lbs
Potential: Fourth-line forward
Comparable to: Kyle Okposo
Despite being the fifth pick by the Capitals in the 2011 draft, Ambroz is surprisingly one of the safest picks to make the Capitals in the future. Of course, the big trade-off is that he has little upside. Aside from a decent shot and physical ability (which go a long way in this league), the rest of Ambroz’s skillset is mediocre. As a result, he should bounce between the pro and farm team if he ever makes it that far.
Andy Welinski, D
Drafted: 5th round, 121st overall
75POT, 78CON, 6’0, 188lbs
Potential: #6 defenseman
Comparable to: Paul Mara
Like Ambroz, Welinski has a decent shot at making the big league but will not likely make a big impact at either end of the ice. With sound defensive instincts, Welinski could become a solid bottom pairing defenseman.
Daniel Pribyl, C
Drafted: 5th round, 131st overall
68POT/73CON, 6’3, 189lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Rich Peverley
With good size and decent playmaking ability, Pribyl may one day make the EHEC as an injury call-up. However, the rest of his game is more suited for the AHL. He is not responsible enough defensively to consistently play as a checking forward and he can’t shoot, skate, or stickhandle well enough to play on a scoring line. One scout observed him “skating on concrete and handling the puck like a grenade, before fanning on a shot yet making a Crosby-level pass to a streaking teammate”.
Edward Wittchow, D
Drafted: 6th round, 173rd overall
47POT, 78CON, 6’3, 189lbs
Potential: Top four defenseman
Comparable to: Sheldon Souray
Wittchow has a long way to go before making the Capitals or even the Bears for a full season. He is a long-term project, but he has dark horse potential to become a solid EHEC defenseman. Improvement this summer would be a start, and the Capitals will stay patient hoping that Wittchow will develop into a physical second- or third-pairing defender in 3-5 years.
Shane McColgan, RW
Drafted: 7th round, 203rd overall
73POT, 35CON, 5’8, 165lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Nikolai Zherdev
With their seventh-round picks, the Capitals are obliged to select only small, high-risk, high-reward offensive forwards (see: Vitaly Karamnov).
Only nine players (Karl Alzner, Matt Bradley, Josh Godfrey, Oskar Osala, Alexander Ovechkin, Jeff Schultz, David Steckel, Jose Theodore, and Semyon Varlamov) that started the league with Washington still remain on the pro roster after two seasons. Another off-season revamp saw players such as Nicklas Backstrom, Mike Green, Milan Hejduk, Teemu Selanne, and Nikolai Zherdev traded from the organization, mostly due to the new league’s financial policies forcing the Capitals to clear salary in order to retain their RFAs. With a high volume of personnel change for the third straight season, many pundits worry about potential problems regarding team chemistry and player adjustment. However, newcomer Pavel Datsyuk has had previous experience playing with the other high-profile Russians in international tournaments, and the Capitals are hoping that a Datsyuk/Ovechkin duo will perform as dangerously as the name dropping sounds on paper. The team has gotten slightly younger, but is still as talented as it has been since the start of the league.
2011 draftees:
Gregory Hofmann, C
Drafted: 1st round, 19th overall
84POT, 76CON, 6’0, 170lbs
Potential: Two-way second-line forward
Comparable to: Jarret Stoll
For their highest draft pick since 2007, Washington was pleased to see that Swiss center Gregory Hofmann was still available. With no glaring weaknesses in his game aside from skating, Hofmann should immediately begin his professional career with Hershey before joining the Capitals full-time possibly as soon as 2012-2013.
Nikita Tochitsky, C
Drafted: 2nd round, 53rd overall
66POT, 78CON, 6’2, 167lbs
Potential: Top-six forward
Comparable to: Saku Koivu
Washington took a gamble by selecting overager Nikita Tochitsky with the 53rd overall pick. Although he turns 20 this summer, Tochitsky can still become even better than his current potential shows. The Capitals have already offered him a contract and he will likely play a big role in the Hershey Bears youth movement next season. However, it is very uncertain whether he will become a good player in the EHEC or simply another great player in the AHL.
Max Friberg, LW
Drafted: 3rd round, 63rd overall
83POT, 54CON, 5’11, 185lbs
Potential: Inconsistent second-line forward
Comparable to: Alexei Kovalev
Despite the Capitals’ claims of drafting consistency and size this year, they could not pass up drafting a small, inconsistent forward with the 63rd pick. Too bad Nikolai Zherdev was recently traded, as he could have taught Friberg the ways to properly coast and play like a fringe ECHLer half the game. If he ever develops properly, Friberg may get a shot at making the Capitals in 2013 or 2014.
Matt Killian, D
Drafted: 3rd round, 76th overall
65POT, 78CON, 6’1, 191lbs
Potential: Top four defenseman, PPQB
Comparable to: John-Michael Liles
With their second pick in the third round, Washington selected defenseman Matt Killian. The Capitals have high hopes for the young defenseman to steadily improve into a top four defenseman in 2-3 years. At worst, his well-rounded talent alone can make him a steady defender for Hershey.
Seth Ambroz, RW
Drafted: 4th round, 98th overall
66POT, 70CON, 6’2, 211lbs
Potential: Fourth-line forward
Comparable to: Kyle Okposo
Despite being the fifth pick by the Capitals in the 2011 draft, Ambroz is surprisingly one of the safest picks to make the Capitals in the future. Of course, the big trade-off is that he has little upside. Aside from a decent shot and physical ability (which go a long way in this league), the rest of Ambroz’s skillset is mediocre. As a result, he should bounce between the pro and farm team if he ever makes it that far.
Andy Welinski, D
Drafted: 5th round, 121st overall
75POT, 78CON, 6’0, 188lbs
Potential: #6 defenseman
Comparable to: Paul Mara
Like Ambroz, Welinski has a decent shot at making the big league but will not likely make a big impact at either end of the ice. With sound defensive instincts, Welinski could become a solid bottom pairing defenseman.
Daniel Pribyl, C
Drafted: 5th round, 131st overall
68POT/73CON, 6’3, 189lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Rich Peverley
With good size and decent playmaking ability, Pribyl may one day make the EHEC as an injury call-up. However, the rest of his game is more suited for the AHL. He is not responsible enough defensively to consistently play as a checking forward and he can’t shoot, skate, or stickhandle well enough to play on a scoring line. One scout observed him “skating on concrete and handling the puck like a grenade, before fanning on a shot yet making a Crosby-level pass to a streaking teammate”.
Edward Wittchow, D
Drafted: 6th round, 173rd overall
47POT, 78CON, 6’3, 189lbs
Potential: Top four defenseman
Comparable to: Sheldon Souray
Wittchow has a long way to go before making the Capitals or even the Bears for a full season. He is a long-term project, but he has dark horse potential to become a solid EHEC defenseman. Improvement this summer would be a start, and the Capitals will stay patient hoping that Wittchow will develop into a physical second- or third-pairing defender in 3-5 years.
Shane McColgan, RW
Drafted: 7th round, 203rd overall
73POT, 35CON, 5’8, 165lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Nikolai Zherdev
With their seventh-round picks, the Capitals are obliged to select only small, high-risk, high-reward offensive forwards (see: Vitaly Karamnov).
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CapsGM
A New Era
After seven seasons of seeing Alexander Ovechkin as the face of the Washington Capitals, it was an unfamiliar sight to not see the Russian superstar interviewing potential 2012 draftees. In a bold and surprising move last week, the Washington Capitals decided to trade Ovechkin to the Detroit Red Wings along with 2007 first round pick Josh Godfrey. In return, the Capitals received another young Russian sniper in Vladimir Tarasenko, a talented two-way defenseman in Dougie Hamilton, and the sixth overall selection in tomorrow's draft. Three straight years of playoff frustration led management to move the star that turned the franchise around in the mid-2000s, and the team hopes to market the young assets received as the future of the Capitals. After trading young defenseman Colby Cohen for another first round pick, Washington currently holds nine picks in the 2012 EHEC Entry Draft.
First round, 6th overall (via Detroit Red Wings)
First round, 23rd overall
First round, 28th overall (via Tampa Bay Lightning, via Pittsburgh Penguins)
Second round, 55th overall (via Boston Bruins)
Third round, 83rd overall
Fifth round, 137th overall (via Nashville Predators)
Fifth round, 143rd overall
Sixth round, 173rd overall
Seventh round, 203rd overall
What the team is expected to do with their three first round picks, especially the sixth overall choice, is up for discussion. There have been rumours that Washington will select defenseman Morgan Rielly if he is available, while some analysts predict that they will choose a forward such as Teuvo Teravainen, Alexander Galchenyuk, or Brendan Gaunce to replace some of Ovechkin's talent. There has also been talk of Washington going off the board entirely or trading the pick. With general manager Tim Gaw out of town for his cousin's engagment party tomorrow, he must make his pick via Twitter; however, he may be drunk enough to select a goaltender such as Malcolm Subban or trade the pick for the Boston Bruins' Dennis Wideman, who the Bruins have placed on the market since new general manager Jason Katerberg took over. Regardless, it makes for interesting deliberation from the pundits.
What the organization decides to do with the 23rd and 28th choices depends of what is done with the 6th. Chances are they will select at least one forward, and the team has reportedly scouted Zemgus Girgensons and Radek Faksa in-depth. If Rielly is chosen at #6, one of those two may be taken at #23.
With promising young defensemen in Cohen, Godfrey, and Dominik Bittner traded, the scouting staff will likely place an emphasis on improving the blueline this year. As usual, the organization hopes to find overlooked talent that can immediately make an impact for the Hershey Bears as well as the pro roster, since several of the AHL veterans have deteriorated faster than international relations between the United States and North Korea.
First round, 6th overall (via Detroit Red Wings)
First round, 23rd overall
First round, 28th overall (via Tampa Bay Lightning, via Pittsburgh Penguins)
Second round, 55th overall (via Boston Bruins)
Third round, 83rd overall
Fifth round, 137th overall (via Nashville Predators)
Fifth round, 143rd overall
Sixth round, 173rd overall
Seventh round, 203rd overall
What the team is expected to do with their three first round picks, especially the sixth overall choice, is up for discussion. There have been rumours that Washington will select defenseman Morgan Rielly if he is available, while some analysts predict that they will choose a forward such as Teuvo Teravainen, Alexander Galchenyuk, or Brendan Gaunce to replace some of Ovechkin's talent. There has also been talk of Washington going off the board entirely or trading the pick. With general manager Tim Gaw out of town for his cousin's engagment party tomorrow, he must make his pick via Twitter; however, he may be drunk enough to select a goaltender such as Malcolm Subban or trade the pick for the Boston Bruins' Dennis Wideman, who the Bruins have placed on the market since new general manager Jason Katerberg took over. Regardless, it makes for interesting deliberation from the pundits.
What the organization decides to do with the 23rd and 28th choices depends of what is done with the 6th. Chances are they will select at least one forward, and the team has reportedly scouted Zemgus Girgensons and Radek Faksa in-depth. If Rielly is chosen at #6, one of those two may be taken at #23.
With promising young defensemen in Cohen, Godfrey, and Dominik Bittner traded, the scouting staff will likely place an emphasis on improving the blueline this year. As usual, the organization hopes to find overlooked talent that can immediately make an impact for the Hershey Bears as well as the pro roster, since several of the AHL veterans have deteriorated faster than international relations between the United States and North Korea.
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CapsGM
Washington Capitals 2012 Draft Review, Part 1
Morgan Rielly, D
Drafted: 1st round, 6th overall
78POT, 87CON, 6’0, 190lbs
Potential: #2/#3 defenseman
Comparable to: Andrei Markov
Rielly is already ready for pro duty and should make the team straight out of training camp. Management hopes that Rielly will be able to complement new acquisition Dougie Hamilton both at even strength and with the man advantage - where Hamilton has the big shot and physical ability, Rielly has the defensive awareness and Paul Coffey-like passing abilities. Look for Rielly and Hamilton to play on the same pairing as early as halfway through next season. With Karl Alzner, Cam Barker, Zbynek Michalek and Andrei Markov signed to very cap-friendly deals, the future of the Capitals defense looks set for a few seasons.
Phillip Di Giuseppe, LW/RW
Drafted: 1st round, 23rd overall
75POT, 80CON, 6’0, 176lbs
Potential: 2nd/3rd-line winger
Comparable to: Brooks Laich
The Capitals were happy to nab Di Giuseppe with the 23rd pick. He has a solid shot and good defensive awareness, and what he lacks in size he makes up for in effort. Di Giuseppe’s only issue is that his offensive game may not be good enough to land a top-six role and there are many better defensive wingers around, so he will need to prove himself in order to make the Capitals full-time.
Erik Karlsson, LW/C
Drafted: 1st round, 28th overall
73POT, 84CON, 6’0, 162lbs
Potential: Second-line center
Comparable to: Matt Cullen
No, not the defenseman Erik Karlsson who was the 2012 Norris Trophy recipient in the alternate hockey universe known as the "NHL". This Karlsson is a center, who has modeled his game similar to fellow Swede and ex-Capital Niklas Backstrom (except not as good). Like fellow first round pick Phillip Di Giuseppe, his offensive abilities may not be enough to offset his lack of grit, which is a quality that the Washington Capitals value highly.
Tyrel Seaman, C/LW
Drafted: 2nd round, 55th overall
75POT, 65CON, 6’2, 196lbs
Potential: Third-line center
Comparable to: David Steckel
With good size and decent defensive awareness, Seaman may eventually take over David Steckel’s duties as the shutdown center for the Capitals. Seaman has a bit more offensive upside than Steckel and has been a faceoff legend for the WHL’s Brandon Wheat Kings. However, he is much less physical than Steckel and his offensive potential is nothing like the last Washington Capitals forward who's surname was pronounced identical to the body fluid. Due to the AHL junior player maximum rule, Seaman will likely remain with the Wheat Kings until the likes of Morgan Rielly, Douglas Hamilton, Max Friberg, and Phillip Di Giuseppe have developed and secured a spot with the pro team.
Chris Calnan, RW/LW
Drafted: 3rd round, 83rd overall
77POT, 68CON, 6’2, 188lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Loui Eriksson
With their fifth pick, the Capitals selected former star Jeremy Roenick's nephew Chris Calnan. Calnan has a decent offensive upside but his defensive shortcomings caused many teams to overlook him until the late third round. His main assets are his skating ability and his shot, and he should get a chance to make the team in 3-4 seasons as a powerplay specialist.
Riley Barber, RW/LW
Drafted: 5th round, 137th overall
76POT, 61CON, 6’0, 194lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Logan MacMillan
Barber should get some spot duty in a few seasons as an injury call-up, but likely won't stick with the team. His checking abilities and good shot should give him ice time on both Hershey's powerplay and penalty kill units.
Robert Baillargeon, C/RW
Drafted: 5th round, 143rd overall
73POT, 64CON, 6’0, 175lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Ryan O'Reilly
These comparisons and potential become more generic as we get deeper into the draft. Aside from a sick name and great playmaking and faceoff abilities, Baillargeon will be an average AHLer. At least these qualities make him more special than scrubs like Jesper Pettersen and Dane Fox.
Branden Troock, C/RW
Drafted: 6th round, 173rd overall
74POT, 66CON, 6’2, 174lbs
Potential: Third-line AHL forward
Comparable to: Rene Bourque
Above average defensive abilities may put Troock into a checking-line role as a temporary call-up, but his lack of offensive skills, poor skating ability, and low maximum VO2 levels will prevent him from becoming more than an AHL journeyman.
Ben Johnson, C/LW
Drafted: 7th round, 203rd overall
71POT, 73CON, 6’0, 186lbs
Potential: Third-line AHL forward
Comparable to: Boyd Gordon
Another AHL depth player with average size, offensive, and defensive abilities. Handles the puck like a 'nade, and unfortunately he isn't nearly as fast as the former Olympic athlete who he shares his name with, unless he takes some steroids and trains hella hard.
Drafted: 1st round, 6th overall
78POT, 87CON, 6’0, 190lbs
Potential: #2/#3 defenseman
Comparable to: Andrei Markov
Rielly is already ready for pro duty and should make the team straight out of training camp. Management hopes that Rielly will be able to complement new acquisition Dougie Hamilton both at even strength and with the man advantage - where Hamilton has the big shot and physical ability, Rielly has the defensive awareness and Paul Coffey-like passing abilities. Look for Rielly and Hamilton to play on the same pairing as early as halfway through next season. With Karl Alzner, Cam Barker, Zbynek Michalek and Andrei Markov signed to very cap-friendly deals, the future of the Capitals defense looks set for a few seasons.
Phillip Di Giuseppe, LW/RW
Drafted: 1st round, 23rd overall
75POT, 80CON, 6’0, 176lbs
Potential: 2nd/3rd-line winger
Comparable to: Brooks Laich
The Capitals were happy to nab Di Giuseppe with the 23rd pick. He has a solid shot and good defensive awareness, and what he lacks in size he makes up for in effort. Di Giuseppe’s only issue is that his offensive game may not be good enough to land a top-six role and there are many better defensive wingers around, so he will need to prove himself in order to make the Capitals full-time.
Erik Karlsson, LW/C
Drafted: 1st round, 28th overall
73POT, 84CON, 6’0, 162lbs
Potential: Second-line center
Comparable to: Matt Cullen
No, not the defenseman Erik Karlsson who was the 2012 Norris Trophy recipient in the alternate hockey universe known as the "NHL". This Karlsson is a center, who has modeled his game similar to fellow Swede and ex-Capital Niklas Backstrom (except not as good). Like fellow first round pick Phillip Di Giuseppe, his offensive abilities may not be enough to offset his lack of grit, which is a quality that the Washington Capitals value highly.
Tyrel Seaman, C/LW
Drafted: 2nd round, 55th overall
75POT, 65CON, 6’2, 196lbs
Potential: Third-line center
Comparable to: David Steckel
With good size and decent defensive awareness, Seaman may eventually take over David Steckel’s duties as the shutdown center for the Capitals. Seaman has a bit more offensive upside than Steckel and has been a faceoff legend for the WHL’s Brandon Wheat Kings. However, he is much less physical than Steckel and his offensive potential is nothing like the last Washington Capitals forward who's surname was pronounced identical to the body fluid. Due to the AHL junior player maximum rule, Seaman will likely remain with the Wheat Kings until the likes of Morgan Rielly, Douglas Hamilton, Max Friberg, and Phillip Di Giuseppe have developed and secured a spot with the pro team.
Chris Calnan, RW/LW
Drafted: 3rd round, 83rd overall
77POT, 68CON, 6’2, 188lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Loui Eriksson
With their fifth pick, the Capitals selected former star Jeremy Roenick's nephew Chris Calnan. Calnan has a decent offensive upside but his defensive shortcomings caused many teams to overlook him until the late third round. His main assets are his skating ability and his shot, and he should get a chance to make the team in 3-4 seasons as a powerplay specialist.
Riley Barber, RW/LW
Drafted: 5th round, 137th overall
76POT, 61CON, 6’0, 194lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Logan MacMillan
Barber should get some spot duty in a few seasons as an injury call-up, but likely won't stick with the team. His checking abilities and good shot should give him ice time on both Hershey's powerplay and penalty kill units.
Robert Baillargeon, C/RW
Drafted: 5th round, 143rd overall
73POT, 64CON, 6’0, 175lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Ryan O'Reilly
These comparisons and potential become more generic as we get deeper into the draft. Aside from a sick name and great playmaking and faceoff abilities, Baillargeon will be an average AHLer. At least these qualities make him more special than scrubs like Jesper Pettersen and Dane Fox.
Branden Troock, C/RW
Drafted: 6th round, 173rd overall
74POT, 66CON, 6’2, 174lbs
Potential: Third-line AHL forward
Comparable to: Rene Bourque
Above average defensive abilities may put Troock into a checking-line role as a temporary call-up, but his lack of offensive skills, poor skating ability, and low maximum VO2 levels will prevent him from becoming more than an AHL journeyman.
Ben Johnson, C/LW
Drafted: 7th round, 203rd overall
71POT, 73CON, 6’0, 186lbs
Potential: Third-line AHL forward
Comparable to: Boyd Gordon
Another AHL depth player with average size, offensive, and defensive abilities. Handles the puck like a 'nade, and unfortunately he isn't nearly as fast as the former Olympic athlete who he shares his name with, unless he takes some steroids and trains hella hard.
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CapsGM
Washington Capitals 2012 Draft Review, Part 2
Another season of playoff disappointment led to management making abrupt changes to the Capitals lineup. The era of Alexander Ovechkin in Washington has ended after seven seasons, and a new group of young talent has arrived. With 20 players with an average age of 26.55 under contract, the roster looks weaker and more inexperienced. However, the team will definitely become more dangerous as the new players develop, and a core built around Pavel Datsyuk, Andrei Markov, and Semyon Varlamov can never be overlooked. In addition, $7 million in cap space is the most Washington has had to spend since the inaugural EHEC season, where management decided to sign every aging Russian free agent to inflated contracts. Look for the team to be active in the free agent market as per usual.
The first draft day move made involved trading Colby Cohen to the Tampa Bay Lightning for the 28th overall pick (used to select Erik Karlsson) and Pittsburgh's 2013 third round pick. Cohen was acquired last off-season for veteran forward Milan Hejduk, but had a disappointing first season in both development and performance. It may be dangerous to move a physical monster like Cohen to a divisional rival, but Lightning general manager Justin Cote will probably trade him before the end of the month.
In a minor trade, forward Shane McColgan was dealt to the New York Rangers for defenseman Linus Hultstrom. There really isn't much to report on this trade, as neither player should become anything of value.
In a surprising move, Washington dealt Dominik Bittner, Braden Holtby, and the 113th overall pick to the Boston Bruins for Jamie Langenbrunner, Mark Dekanich, and the 55th overall pick (used to select Tyrel Seaman). Holtby was being groomed to take over the backup role from the departed Jose Theodore. However, the team seems to have just as much faith in Michal Neuvirth, and the newly acquired Dekanich should take over starting duties in Hershey. Despite his impressive development, the 6'7 Bittner was deemed expendable with the plans to acquire Dougie Hamilton and draft Morgan Rielly. Seaman should become a servicable player in the near future while Langenbrunner should be a good fit with Mike Fisher and Oskar Osala - captain Datsyuk was heard making a douchebag comment christening the line "Forwards Lacking Offense". With comments like these, can we really consider Datsyuk captain material? Has the realization that he has become the team's #1 offensive option and is not playing behind greats such as Steve Yzerman, Henrik Zetterberg, and Ovechkin already gotten to his head?
One of the biggest headliners of the 2012 EHEC Entry Draft involved Washington sending Ovechkin and Josh Godfrey to the Detroit Red Wings for Vladimir Tarasenko, Dougie Hamilton, and the sixth overall pick (used to select Morgan Rielly). With other superstars such as Steven Stamkos and Rick Nash finding new teams as well, the movement of exceptional talent signals a potential power shift in the league's top teams.
Although the team's regular season improvement over the past seven seasons has been remarkable, the playoff results during Ovechkin's tenure in D.C. aren't. The team has made the Eastern semi-finals just twice and were eliminated by the Pittsburgh Penguins three of the past four seasons. With just four wins in those three series, those Crosby-led - wait, Malkin-led - wait, Fleury-led - wait, Staal - ahh fuck it, those Penguins are pissing me off.
With a nearly $10 million cap hit, it was difficult for management to surround Ovechkin with talent. In return, 20-year-old Tarasenko will immediately fill his spot on the top line alongside Datsyuk and should soon emerge an offensive beast. Hamilton will spend the first part of the season in the minors but will undoubtedly make the team very soon, and 18-year-old Rielly looks poised to play straight out of camp. They better develop quickly, as Caps fans did not take the loss of their demi-god too well and rioted outside the Verizon Center, although the fires were of much less magnitude to the classless Vancouver assholes after their deserving loss in the NHL finals last year. The faster the young blood develops, the sooner the team will return to dominating the regular season (especially with the young players still on their ELCs) and appease the angry fanbase. Either way - yes, there will definitely be blood.
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Penguin
Re: The Washington Post
Although the team's regular season improvement over the past seven seasons has been remarkable, the playoff results during Ovechkin's tenure in D.C. aren't. The team has made the Eastern semi-finals just twice and were eliminated by the Pittsburgh Penguins three of the past four seasons. With just four wins in those three series, those Crosby-led - wait, Malkin-led - wait, Fleury-led - wait, Staal - ahh fuck it, those Penguins are pissing me off.
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CapsGM
Washington's top 10 prospects, bitches
#1 - Vladimir Tarasenko, RW
Drafted: 2010, 1st round, 7th overall
Potential: First-line winger
#2 – Morgan Rielly, D
Drafted: 2012, 1st round, 6th overall
Potential: #2/#3 defenseman
#3 – Dougie Hamilton, D
Drafted: 2012, 1st round, 6th overall
Potential: #3 defenseman
#4 – Nikita Gusev, RW
Drafted: 2010, 2nd round, 60th overall
Potential: Second-line winger
#5 – Phillipe Di Giuseppe, RW
Drafted: 2012, 1st round, 23rd overall
Potential: Top nine winger
#6 – Artemy Panarin, LW
Drafted: 2010, 2nd round, 60th overall
Potential: Second-line winger
#7 – Max Friberg, LW
Drafted: 2011, 3rd round, 63rd overall
Potential: Second-line winger
#8 – Erik Karlsson, C
Drafted: 2012, 1st round, 28th overall
Potential: Third-line center
#9 – Michal Neuvirth, G
Drafted: 2006, 2nd round, 34th overall
Potential: Backup goaltender
#10 – Tyrel Seaman, C
Drafted: 2012, 2nd round, 55th overall
Potential: Third-line center
Organizational strengths: Abundance of EHEC-ready impact wingers and defensemen.
Organizational weaknesses: Lack of high-end center depth, especially with 2011 first round pick Greg Hofmann no longer considered a prospect. Highly unlikely that any defensive prospects other than Hamilton and Rielly will have an extended EHEC career.
Drafted: 2010, 1st round, 7th overall
Potential: First-line winger
#2 – Morgan Rielly, D
Drafted: 2012, 1st round, 6th overall
Potential: #2/#3 defenseman
#3 – Dougie Hamilton, D
Drafted: 2012, 1st round, 6th overall
Potential: #3 defenseman
#4 – Nikita Gusev, RW
Drafted: 2010, 2nd round, 60th overall
Potential: Second-line winger
#5 – Phillipe Di Giuseppe, RW
Drafted: 2012, 1st round, 23rd overall
Potential: Top nine winger
#6 – Artemy Panarin, LW
Drafted: 2010, 2nd round, 60th overall
Potential: Second-line winger
#7 – Max Friberg, LW
Drafted: 2011, 3rd round, 63rd overall
Potential: Second-line winger
#8 – Erik Karlsson, C
Drafted: 2012, 1st round, 28th overall
Potential: Third-line center
#9 – Michal Neuvirth, G
Drafted: 2006, 2nd round, 34th overall
Potential: Backup goaltender
#10 – Tyrel Seaman, C
Drafted: 2012, 2nd round, 55th overall
Potential: Third-line center
Organizational strengths: Abundance of EHEC-ready impact wingers and defensemen.
Organizational weaknesses: Lack of high-end center depth, especially with 2011 first round pick Greg Hofmann no longer considered a prospect. Highly unlikely that any defensive prospects other than Hamilton and Rielly will have an extended EHEC career.
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CapsGM
2013 Season Preview
The volume of trades and rumours have dropped since the draft since half the league's managers went into hibernation after a stressful 2012 season. However, Washington management was active as usual in the free agent market. Notable acquisitions include Fernando Pisani and Evgeni Nabokov, who will provide veteran leadership as role players, and former 40-goal scorer Jason Blake, who looks to lead Hershey to a Calder Cup by himself.
Of course, the highlight of the off-season was the departure of Alexander Ovechkin, who had been subject to trade rumours after he was criticized for his inability to lead a team during the playoffs. During the draft, Ovechkin was dealt along with defenseman Josh Godfrey to the Detroit Red Wings. In return, the Capitals received two of EHEC's most promising prospects, defenseman Dougie Hamilton and winger Vladimir Tarasenko. They also acquired the 2012 sixth overall draft pick, which they used to select WHL defenseman Morgan Rielly. All three players represent a new marketing plan around D.C. that rivals Baracka Flocka Flames’ presidential campaign.
In:
Robert Baillargeon (2012 draftee)
Riley Barber (2012 draftee)
Jason Blake (signed via UFA)
Chris Calnan (2012 draftee)
Mark Dekanich (acquired via trade)
Phillip Di Giuseppe (2012 draftee)
Ben Johnson (2012 draftee)
Dougie Hamilton (acquired via trade)
Linus Hultstrom (acquired via trade)
Erik Karlsson (2012 draftee)
Jamie Langenbrunner (acquired via trade)
Evgeni Nabokov (signed via UFA)
Wes O’Neill (signed via UFA)
Tyler Plante (signed via UFA)
Fernando Pisani (signed via UFA)
Morgan Rielly (2012 draftee)
Tyrel Seaman (2012 draftee)
Vladimir Tarasenko (acquired via trade)
Branden Troock (2012 draftee)
Out:
Dominik Bittner (traded)
Benjamin Casavant (released)
Brett Clark (UFA)
Colby Cohen (traded)
Jean-Pierre Dumont (UFA)
Brett Flemming (released)
Josh Godfrey (traded)
Braden Holtby (traded)
Ian Laperriere (retirement)
Shane McColgan (traded)
Mike Modano (retirement)
Richard Park (UFA)
Alexander Ovechkin (traded)
Jose Theodore (UFA)
Scott Walker (retirement)
Kyle Wharton (UFA)
2013 opening night lineup:
Olli Jokinen – Pavel Datsyuk – Vladimir Tarasenko
Gregory Hofmann – Jarret Stoll – Nikita Gusev
Oskar Osala – Mike Fisher – Jamie Langenbrunner
Kamil Kreps/Taylor Pyatt – David Steckel – Fernando Pisani
Andrei Markov – Karl Alzner
Cam Barker – Zbynek Michalek
Brian Lashoff – Morgan Rielly
Simeon Varlamov
Evgeni Nabokov
There were no surprises for roster spots during pre-season, although the coaching staff was impressed with the play of several prospects. 2012 first round picks Phillip Di Giuseppe and Erik Karlsson developed instant chemistry, and may become linemates sometime in the future. Tarasenko was invisible during the pre-season, but his talent cannot be overlooked and he will be given every opportunity to succeed. Rielly was expected to make the opening night roster before he was even drafted, and his strong play was no surprise.
The days of Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom, Mike Green, and Alexander Semin developing as the young core of the team seem forgotten. Only David Steckel and Simeon Varlamov remain from the inauguration of EHEC, and fans look to a new wave of impact prospects to replace the traded stars. Gregory Hofmann and Nikita Gusev, who gained experience as rookies during last year’s playoff run, have been given bigger roles. Rielly and Tarasenko are expected to make an immediate impact as well. Teenagers Hamilton and Di Giuseppe are the next likely prospects to graduate from the system, but will start the season in Hershey. Wingers Max Friberg and Artemy Panarin could see some time with the Capitals if the team is hit with injuries.
With reigning Eastern Conference champion Winnipeg looking even stronger, and the two Florida teams showing considerable improvement, the Southeast looks to be the most competitive it’s ever been in the four seasons of EHEC. Ovechkin’s void makes the team much weaker on paper, and with several inexperienced youngsters slot into full-time roles, it will be difficult to achieve another 50+ win season. Management sees the 2013 season as a retooling year, so at this point third place in the division and a seventh seed is a realistic projection. However, general manager Tim Gaw won’t easily concede EHEC's top regular season winning percentage either. You’ve been warned.
Projected scoring leaders:
Pavel Datsyuk – 30-51-81
Olli Jokinen – 33-38-71
Vladimir Tarasenko – 23-35-58
Jarret Stoll – 22-30-52
Andrei Markov – 14-35-49
Simeon Varlamov +5LE
Morgan Rielly +5LE
Gregory Hofmann +5LE
Of course, the highlight of the off-season was the departure of Alexander Ovechkin, who had been subject to trade rumours after he was criticized for his inability to lead a team during the playoffs. During the draft, Ovechkin was dealt along with defenseman Josh Godfrey to the Detroit Red Wings. In return, the Capitals received two of EHEC's most promising prospects, defenseman Dougie Hamilton and winger Vladimir Tarasenko. They also acquired the 2012 sixth overall draft pick, which they used to select WHL defenseman Morgan Rielly. All three players represent a new marketing plan around D.C. that rivals Baracka Flocka Flames’ presidential campaign.
In:
Robert Baillargeon (2012 draftee)
Riley Barber (2012 draftee)
Jason Blake (signed via UFA)
Chris Calnan (2012 draftee)
Mark Dekanich (acquired via trade)
Phillip Di Giuseppe (2012 draftee)
Ben Johnson (2012 draftee)
Dougie Hamilton (acquired via trade)
Linus Hultstrom (acquired via trade)
Erik Karlsson (2012 draftee)
Jamie Langenbrunner (acquired via trade)
Evgeni Nabokov (signed via UFA)
Wes O’Neill (signed via UFA)
Tyler Plante (signed via UFA)
Fernando Pisani (signed via UFA)
Morgan Rielly (2012 draftee)
Tyrel Seaman (2012 draftee)
Vladimir Tarasenko (acquired via trade)
Branden Troock (2012 draftee)
Out:
Dominik Bittner (traded)
Benjamin Casavant (released)
Brett Clark (UFA)
Colby Cohen (traded)
Jean-Pierre Dumont (UFA)
Brett Flemming (released)
Josh Godfrey (traded)
Braden Holtby (traded)
Ian Laperriere (retirement)
Shane McColgan (traded)
Mike Modano (retirement)
Richard Park (UFA)
Alexander Ovechkin (traded)
Jose Theodore (UFA)
Scott Walker (retirement)
Kyle Wharton (UFA)
2013 opening night lineup:
Olli Jokinen – Pavel Datsyuk – Vladimir Tarasenko
Gregory Hofmann – Jarret Stoll – Nikita Gusev
Oskar Osala – Mike Fisher – Jamie Langenbrunner
Kamil Kreps/Taylor Pyatt – David Steckel – Fernando Pisani
Andrei Markov – Karl Alzner
Cam Barker – Zbynek Michalek
Brian Lashoff – Morgan Rielly
Simeon Varlamov
Evgeni Nabokov
There were no surprises for roster spots during pre-season, although the coaching staff was impressed with the play of several prospects. 2012 first round picks Phillip Di Giuseppe and Erik Karlsson developed instant chemistry, and may become linemates sometime in the future. Tarasenko was invisible during the pre-season, but his talent cannot be overlooked and he will be given every opportunity to succeed. Rielly was expected to make the opening night roster before he was even drafted, and his strong play was no surprise.
The days of Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom, Mike Green, and Alexander Semin developing as the young core of the team seem forgotten. Only David Steckel and Simeon Varlamov remain from the inauguration of EHEC, and fans look to a new wave of impact prospects to replace the traded stars. Gregory Hofmann and Nikita Gusev, who gained experience as rookies during last year’s playoff run, have been given bigger roles. Rielly and Tarasenko are expected to make an immediate impact as well. Teenagers Hamilton and Di Giuseppe are the next likely prospects to graduate from the system, but will start the season in Hershey. Wingers Max Friberg and Artemy Panarin could see some time with the Capitals if the team is hit with injuries.
With reigning Eastern Conference champion Winnipeg looking even stronger, and the two Florida teams showing considerable improvement, the Southeast looks to be the most competitive it’s ever been in the four seasons of EHEC. Ovechkin’s void makes the team much weaker on paper, and with several inexperienced youngsters slot into full-time roles, it will be difficult to achieve another 50+ win season. Management sees the 2013 season as a retooling year, so at this point third place in the division and a seventh seed is a realistic projection. However, general manager Tim Gaw won’t easily concede EHEC's top regular season winning percentage either. You’ve been warned.
Projected scoring leaders:
Pavel Datsyuk – 30-51-81
Olli Jokinen – 33-38-71
Vladimir Tarasenko – 23-35-58
Jarret Stoll – 22-30-52
Andrei Markov – 14-35-49
Simeon Varlamov +5LE
Morgan Rielly +5LE
Gregory Hofmann +5LE
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CapsGM
Good team, or terrible team?
Washington Capitals Midseason Review
Despite a recent four-game winning streak, Washington has looked inconsistent over the first half of the 2013 season. The team has struggled to find an identity after trading superstar Alexander Ovechkin, but is currently 25-16-2, seeding fourth in the conference and second in the division behind Dave Greybill’s Hurricanes. The Capitals still remain in the hunt for the division title and have closed the gap to just six points with a game in hand. However, the reigning Eastern Conference champion Jets have surged after a slow start, and are just five points behind the fourth seed with a mind-boggling five games in hand (blame the shitty NHL schedulers).
Management has surprisingly refrained from pulling the trigger on any panic deals yet, opting to make roster movement from within the system. Most notably, rookies Phillipe Di Giuseppe and Max Friberg were brought up from Hershey after tearing up the American Hockey League and have made an immediate impact.
The Good:
Top ranked penalty kill.
Hershey Bears first in the AHL.
Rookies stepping up.
The Bad:
Scoring depth past Pavel Datsyuk and Olli Jokinen.
Difficulty getting offense/defense/goaltending to perform well simultaneously.
Troubles against top-tier teams.
Midseason Grades: Forwards
DATSYUK, Pavel – A
Stats – 43GP: 17G-25A-42P
Projection – 82GP: 33G-50A-85P
Datsyuk continues to do things that Datsyuk does – for instance, producing at a point-per-game place while being a vital cog of the league’s top penalty kill. Turning 35 at the end of the season, he has yet to show signs of slowing down.
JOKINEN, Olli – A-
Stats – 43GP: 19G-22A-41P
Projection – 82GP: 38G-42A-80P
After a disappointing 2012 season where Jokinen was criticized for not living up to his $5.5 million salary, he chose to take a pay cut and remain with the Capitals. This year, he has produced like a $5.5 million player again and is already close to eclipsing his statistics from last season.
STOLL, Jarret – B+
Stats – 43GP: 9G-10A-19P
Projection – 82GP: 20G-25A-45P
Stoll has struggled offensively, but so has the rest of the team. However, his intangibles are what make him so valuable to the team – as usual, he remains a faceoff beast and a top penalty killer.
LANGENBRUNNER, Jamie – B+
Stats – 41GP: 6G-9A-15P
Projection – 80GP: 10G-18A-28P
Langenbrunner brings valuable leadership and energy to the bottom six. His +5 leads the team and his 62 takeaways leads all Washington forwards. Langenbrunner is no longer a 60 point player, but he has still made an impact.
FRIBERG, Max – B+
Stats – 10GP: 3G-8A-11P
Projection – 50GP: 12G-29A-41P
Friberg has sparked the offense since his call-up. Time will tell if this soft, inconsistent European rookie will continue to produce big numbers.
TARASENKO, Vladimir – B
Stats – 36GP: 8G-14A-22P
Projection – 75GP: 21G-29A-50P
The heir to Ovechkin has not looked like Ovechkin. Tarasenko’s development has stagnated, which earned him a short conditioning stint in Hershey and a placement on the trade block. However, he has responded well, scoring four goals in six games after scoring the same amount in the first thirty.
HOFMANN, Gregory – B
Stats – 40GP: 8G-17A-25P
Projection – 79GP: 18G-34A-52P
The Second-year Swiss forward Hofmann has shown considerable improvement in all aspects since his rookie season. However, his attitude needs improvement in order to take his game to the next level. He has been a healthy scratch for three games already and has not scored in eight games.
STECKEL, David – B
Stats – 36GP: 4G-3A-7P
Projection – 70GP: 7G-7A-14P
The longest tenured member of the team can always be counted upon to provide leadership and stability to the fourth line.
DI GIUSEPPE, Phillip – B
Stats – 13GP: 2G-4A-6P
Projection – 48GP: 8G-15A-22P
PDG is still among the top twenty AHL scorers despite spending a month with the Capitals. His versatility has allowed to play on any line, where he has not looked out of place despite 13 games of experience.
FISHER, Mike – B-
Stats – 43GP: 8G-9A-17P
Projection – 82GP: 17G-20A-37P
Fisher has performed adequately as a third-line center, but considering he makes $4.2 million, “adequate third-line center” isn’t enough.
OSALA, Oskar – B-
Stats – 37GP: 2G-4A-6P
Projection – 72GP: 5G-6A-11P
Typical fourth-liner. Subject to trade rumours.
PYATT, Taylor – C+
Stats – 28GP: 1G-3A-4P
Projection – 60GP: 4G-5A-9P
Calling yourself a "Stanley Cup winner" only takes you so far.
KREPS, Kamil – C
Stats – 29GP: 3G-3A-6P
Projection – 60GP: 5G-4A-9P
Kreps had a good start to the season, but his spot in the lineup is in jeopardy as the team looks to run a more offensive system.
GUSEV, Nikita – C-
Stats – 36GP: 7G-5A-12P
Projection – 68GP: 17G-19A-36P
The most overrated 78OA player in the league and winner of the most disappointing player award. Seriously, he’ll have a multi-point game and ten takeaways one night, then disappears for a week.
PISANI, Fernando – D
Stats – 27GP: 2G-2A-4P
Projection – 53GP: 5G-3A-8P
Useless.
Midseason Grades: Defense
MARKOV, Andrei – A
Stats – 43GP: 10G-25A-35P
Projection – 82GP: 16G-45A-61P
Beast. Leads all defensemen in scoring and on pace for a career year at age 34. Worth a franchise tag? Yes. Suck it, Mike Green.
BARKER, Cam – A-
Stats – 43GP: 2G-8A-10P
Projection – 82GP: 3G-18A-21P
Barker has brought a physical presence on a team that lacks big hitters on paper. Currently seventh in the league in hits and second on the team in ice time, he has quietly put up a season playing hard defense and taking on big minutes.
RIELLY, Morgan – B+
Stats – 43GP: 1G-15A-16P
Projection – 82GP: 5G-29A-34P
The 2012 sixth overall pick’s game has shown clear improvement over the course of the season, and it’s only a matter of time before he emerges as a top pairing beast. Suck it, Mike Green.
ALZNER, Karl – B+
Stats – 43GP: 1G-5A-6P
Projection – 82GP: 1G-14A-15P
The defensive anchor and unsung hero of the team once again. His game isn’t flashy, but it is efficient.
LASHOFF, Brian – B-
Stats – 41GP: 2G-3A-5P
Projection – 77GP: 5G-5A-10P
Second on the team in takeaways, but may be better utilized as a forward.
MICHALEK, Zbynek – C+
Stats – 35GP: 1G-3A-4P
Projection – 72GP: 1G-7A-8P
Injuring Jarome Iginla for three months will probably be the highlight of Michalek’s season. But that’s a big reason why the Penguins have not yet run away with the Atlantic Division lead. Well done, Zbynek.
SCHULTZ, Jeff – C+
Stats – 14GP: 0G-2A-2P
Projection – 25GP: 1G-3A-4P
Schultz filled in well during Michalek's suspension, but he belongs in Hershey.
Midseason Grades: Goatlenders
NABOKOV, Evgeni – B+
Stats – 15GP: 9W-5L-1OTL
Projection – 26GP: 17W-8L-1OTL
Latest Cup-winning goaltender has performed well in the backup spot, although he’s all pouty and shit for some reason.
VARLAMOV, Semyon – B
Stats – 29GP: 16W-11L-1OTL
Projection – 59GP: 31W-24L-3OTL
Varlamov has looked inconsistent and rather pedestrian this season. He’s picked it up lately, but the team expects more from the incumbent Vezina winner.
Despite a recent four-game winning streak, Washington has looked inconsistent over the first half of the 2013 season. The team has struggled to find an identity after trading superstar Alexander Ovechkin, but is currently 25-16-2, seeding fourth in the conference and second in the division behind Dave Greybill’s Hurricanes. The Capitals still remain in the hunt for the division title and have closed the gap to just six points with a game in hand. However, the reigning Eastern Conference champion Jets have surged after a slow start, and are just five points behind the fourth seed with a mind-boggling five games in hand (blame the shitty NHL schedulers).
Management has surprisingly refrained from pulling the trigger on any panic deals yet, opting to make roster movement from within the system. Most notably, rookies Phillipe Di Giuseppe and Max Friberg were brought up from Hershey after tearing up the American Hockey League and have made an immediate impact.
The Good:
Top ranked penalty kill.
Hershey Bears first in the AHL.
Rookies stepping up.
The Bad:
Scoring depth past Pavel Datsyuk and Olli Jokinen.
Difficulty getting offense/defense/goaltending to perform well simultaneously.
Troubles against top-tier teams.
Midseason Grades: Forwards
DATSYUK, Pavel – A
Stats – 43GP: 17G-25A-42P
Projection – 82GP: 33G-50A-85P
Datsyuk continues to do things that Datsyuk does – for instance, producing at a point-per-game place while being a vital cog of the league’s top penalty kill. Turning 35 at the end of the season, he has yet to show signs of slowing down.
JOKINEN, Olli – A-
Stats – 43GP: 19G-22A-41P
Projection – 82GP: 38G-42A-80P
After a disappointing 2012 season where Jokinen was criticized for not living up to his $5.5 million salary, he chose to take a pay cut and remain with the Capitals. This year, he has produced like a $5.5 million player again and is already close to eclipsing his statistics from last season.
STOLL, Jarret – B+
Stats – 43GP: 9G-10A-19P
Projection – 82GP: 20G-25A-45P
Stoll has struggled offensively, but so has the rest of the team. However, his intangibles are what make him so valuable to the team – as usual, he remains a faceoff beast and a top penalty killer.
LANGENBRUNNER, Jamie – B+
Stats – 41GP: 6G-9A-15P
Projection – 80GP: 10G-18A-28P
Langenbrunner brings valuable leadership and energy to the bottom six. His +5 leads the team and his 62 takeaways leads all Washington forwards. Langenbrunner is no longer a 60 point player, but he has still made an impact.
FRIBERG, Max – B+
Stats – 10GP: 3G-8A-11P
Projection – 50GP: 12G-29A-41P
Friberg has sparked the offense since his call-up. Time will tell if this soft, inconsistent European rookie will continue to produce big numbers.
TARASENKO, Vladimir – B
Stats – 36GP: 8G-14A-22P
Projection – 75GP: 21G-29A-50P
The heir to Ovechkin has not looked like Ovechkin. Tarasenko’s development has stagnated, which earned him a short conditioning stint in Hershey and a placement on the trade block. However, he has responded well, scoring four goals in six games after scoring the same amount in the first thirty.
HOFMANN, Gregory – B
Stats – 40GP: 8G-17A-25P
Projection – 79GP: 18G-34A-52P
The Second-year Swiss forward Hofmann has shown considerable improvement in all aspects since his rookie season. However, his attitude needs improvement in order to take his game to the next level. He has been a healthy scratch for three games already and has not scored in eight games.
STECKEL, David – B
Stats – 36GP: 4G-3A-7P
Projection – 70GP: 7G-7A-14P
The longest tenured member of the team can always be counted upon to provide leadership and stability to the fourth line.
DI GIUSEPPE, Phillip – B
Stats – 13GP: 2G-4A-6P
Projection – 48GP: 8G-15A-22P
PDG is still among the top twenty AHL scorers despite spending a month with the Capitals. His versatility has allowed to play on any line, where he has not looked out of place despite 13 games of experience.
FISHER, Mike – B-
Stats – 43GP: 8G-9A-17P
Projection – 82GP: 17G-20A-37P
Fisher has performed adequately as a third-line center, but considering he makes $4.2 million, “adequate third-line center” isn’t enough.
OSALA, Oskar – B-
Stats – 37GP: 2G-4A-6P
Projection – 72GP: 5G-6A-11P
Typical fourth-liner. Subject to trade rumours.
PYATT, Taylor – C+
Stats – 28GP: 1G-3A-4P
Projection – 60GP: 4G-5A-9P
Calling yourself a "Stanley Cup winner" only takes you so far.
KREPS, Kamil – C
Stats – 29GP: 3G-3A-6P
Projection – 60GP: 5G-4A-9P
Kreps had a good start to the season, but his spot in the lineup is in jeopardy as the team looks to run a more offensive system.
GUSEV, Nikita – C-
Stats – 36GP: 7G-5A-12P
Projection – 68GP: 17G-19A-36P
The most overrated 78OA player in the league and winner of the most disappointing player award. Seriously, he’ll have a multi-point game and ten takeaways one night, then disappears for a week.
PISANI, Fernando – D
Stats – 27GP: 2G-2A-4P
Projection – 53GP: 5G-3A-8P
Useless.
Midseason Grades: Defense
MARKOV, Andrei – A
Stats – 43GP: 10G-25A-35P
Projection – 82GP: 16G-45A-61P
Beast. Leads all defensemen in scoring and on pace for a career year at age 34. Worth a franchise tag? Yes. Suck it, Mike Green.
BARKER, Cam – A-
Stats – 43GP: 2G-8A-10P
Projection – 82GP: 3G-18A-21P
Barker has brought a physical presence on a team that lacks big hitters on paper. Currently seventh in the league in hits and second on the team in ice time, he has quietly put up a season playing hard defense and taking on big minutes.
RIELLY, Morgan – B+
Stats – 43GP: 1G-15A-16P
Projection – 82GP: 5G-29A-34P
The 2012 sixth overall pick’s game has shown clear improvement over the course of the season, and it’s only a matter of time before he emerges as a top pairing beast. Suck it, Mike Green.
ALZNER, Karl – B+
Stats – 43GP: 1G-5A-6P
Projection – 82GP: 1G-14A-15P
The defensive anchor and unsung hero of the team once again. His game isn’t flashy, but it is efficient.
LASHOFF, Brian – B-
Stats – 41GP: 2G-3A-5P
Projection – 77GP: 5G-5A-10P
Second on the team in takeaways, but may be better utilized as a forward.
MICHALEK, Zbynek – C+
Stats – 35GP: 1G-3A-4P
Projection – 72GP: 1G-7A-8P
Injuring Jarome Iginla for three months will probably be the highlight of Michalek’s season. But that’s a big reason why the Penguins have not yet run away with the Atlantic Division lead. Well done, Zbynek.
SCHULTZ, Jeff – C+
Stats – 14GP: 0G-2A-2P
Projection – 25GP: 1G-3A-4P
Schultz filled in well during Michalek's suspension, but he belongs in Hershey.
Midseason Grades: Goatlenders
NABOKOV, Evgeni – B+
Stats – 15GP: 9W-5L-1OTL
Projection – 26GP: 17W-8L-1OTL
Latest Cup-winning goaltender has performed well in the backup spot, although he’s all pouty and shit for some reason.
VARLAMOV, Semyon – B
Stats – 29GP: 16W-11L-1OTL
Projection – 59GP: 31W-24L-3OTL
Varlamov has looked inconsistent and rather pedestrian this season. He’s picked it up lately, but the team expects more from the incumbent Vezina winner.
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Commish Bub(NYR)
- Posts: 6507
- Joined: Sat Sep 26, 2009 11:30 am
- Location: Maine
Re: The Washington Post
Ha ha! Goatlenders. Sweet. 
Nice write-up, Tim.
Nice write-up, Tim.
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CapsGM
Washington Capitals 2013 Draft Review
Jimmy Lodge, C
Drafted: 1st round, 26th overall
73POT, 70CON; 6’0, 166lbs
Potential: 2nd line center
Comparable to: Travis Zajac
Chosen two spots after Samuel “I Didn’t Even Want Him” Morin, Lodge’s blazing speed and strong faceoff abilities would be a great fit for any team. His passing ability is a nice compliment to the sniper wingers in the system, and he could possibly see some time with the Capitals by the end of the season.
Nick Sorensen, RW
Drafted: 2nd round, 32nd overall
79POT, 87CON; 6’1, 168lbs
Potential: 3rd line winger
Comparable to: Jere Lehtinen
The Capitals dealt an extra second round pick to draft Sorensen. Although not overly physical and possessing limited offensive ability, Sorensen’s defensive awareness will make him a top checking forward and penalty killer. Like Lodge, he could also make the team by the start of the playoffs.
Tristan Jarry, G
Drafted: 3rd round, 69th overall
77POT, 74CON; 6’2, 178lbs
Potential: Backup goaltender/1B starter
Comparable to: Jhonas Enroth
Jarry is the first goaltender drafted by the Capitals since Braden Holtby in 2008, but has the potential to be one of the top goalies in the system. His talent and consistency exceed the levels of perennial AHL tweeners Michal Neuvirth and Mark Dekanich, and management is high on Jarry challenging former Vezina winner Semyon Varlamov for playing time in the future.
Luke Ripley, D
Drafted: 3rd round, 72nd overall
76POT, 83CON; 6’3, 193lbs
Potential: #5/#6 defenseman
Comparable to: Colby Cohen
Washington management was excited to pick up Ripley with the 72nd pick, but that excitement waned by the end of the fourth round when they drafted three other defensemen with similar styles. Ripley’s mobility and offensive abilities are limited, and he often puts himself out of position to throw a big hit a la Dion Phaneuf, but he definitely has the ability to hit a la Dion Phaneuf. He could potentially grow out of his positioning issues, and would become a solid bottom pairing defender in EHEC if he can.
Brett Pesce, D
Drafted: 3rd round, 86th overall
72POT, 91CON; 6’3, 174lbs
Potential: #5 defenseman
Comparable to: Jan Hejda
Pesce impressed Washington scouts enough to get drafted higher than expected. So far, the gamble has paid off and he has already shown improvement. Pesce will likely start the season in Hershey, where he should develop into the prototypical third-pairing defenseman that management will spend time developing yet ends up being traded eventually (see Dominik Bittner, Colby Cohen, Shaone Morrisonn, etc).
Avery Peterson, C
Drafted: 3rd round, 90th overall
52POT, 81CON; 6’2, 193lbs
Potential: 3rd line center
Comparable to: David Backes
Peterson is a long-term project, and won't make an impact for 3-5 years even if he reaches his full potential. However, he has shown considerable improvement this off-season, and could make a case for being a steal in the third round if he continues to develop. He could end up a poor man's David Backes, but Washington would be ecstatic if he became a rich man's David Steckel.
Ben Harpur, D
Drafted: 4th round, 92nd overall
70POT, 92CON; 6’6, 210lbs
Potential: #6/#7 defenseman
Comparable to: Colby Cohen
See Luke Ripley.
Wiley Sherman, D
Drafted: 4th round, 106th overall
47POT, 85CON; 6’6, 196lbs
Potential: #5 defenseman
Comparable to: Brooks Orpik
See Luke Ripley, although even that’s a stretch. He could end up challenging fellow 2013 draftees Pesce, Harpur, and Ripley as a physical stay-at-home defender, or he could end up a useless monster like Ryan O’Byrne.
David Kampf, RW
Drafted: 4th round, 116th overall
48POT, 80CON; 6’0, 168lbs
Potential: Top-six forward
Comparable to: Filip Forsberg
Kampf marks another high-risk, high-reward pick for the Capitals 2013 draft. He could very well end up working at an EHEC concession stand in four years, like many 22-year-olds in the current economy. However, if Kampf can put it all together, he could become a 30-goal winger in EHEC.
Fabrice Herzog, RW
Drafted: 5th round, 146th overall
71POT, 80CON; 6’1, 194lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Andrew Ebbett
Herzog is a long shot to ever make the pro roster. If anything, it’s because of his sniping ability – the rest of his game is very mediocre. At least he has a cool name.
David Griger, LW
Drafted: 6th round, 176th overall
43POT, 86CON; 5’10, 168lbs
Potential: Top-six forward
Comparable to: Andy McDonald
Yet another boom-or-bust pick, Griger could become a 60-point center in five years. However, size is an issue, and it’s unlikely he’ll get a chance with the Washington organization unless he exceeds all expectations of him.
Taylor Cammarata, C
Drafted: 7th round, 206th overall
75POT, 54CON; 5’7, 156lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Artemy Panarin
Meh.
Drafted: 1st round, 26th overall
73POT, 70CON; 6’0, 166lbs
Potential: 2nd line center
Comparable to: Travis Zajac
Chosen two spots after Samuel “I Didn’t Even Want Him” Morin, Lodge’s blazing speed and strong faceoff abilities would be a great fit for any team. His passing ability is a nice compliment to the sniper wingers in the system, and he could possibly see some time with the Capitals by the end of the season.
Nick Sorensen, RW
Drafted: 2nd round, 32nd overall
79POT, 87CON; 6’1, 168lbs
Potential: 3rd line winger
Comparable to: Jere Lehtinen
The Capitals dealt an extra second round pick to draft Sorensen. Although not overly physical and possessing limited offensive ability, Sorensen’s defensive awareness will make him a top checking forward and penalty killer. Like Lodge, he could also make the team by the start of the playoffs.
Tristan Jarry, G
Drafted: 3rd round, 69th overall
77POT, 74CON; 6’2, 178lbs
Potential: Backup goaltender/1B starter
Comparable to: Jhonas Enroth
Jarry is the first goaltender drafted by the Capitals since Braden Holtby in 2008, but has the potential to be one of the top goalies in the system. His talent and consistency exceed the levels of perennial AHL tweeners Michal Neuvirth and Mark Dekanich, and management is high on Jarry challenging former Vezina winner Semyon Varlamov for playing time in the future.
Luke Ripley, D
Drafted: 3rd round, 72nd overall
76POT, 83CON; 6’3, 193lbs
Potential: #5/#6 defenseman
Comparable to: Colby Cohen
Washington management was excited to pick up Ripley with the 72nd pick, but that excitement waned by the end of the fourth round when they drafted three other defensemen with similar styles. Ripley’s mobility and offensive abilities are limited, and he often puts himself out of position to throw a big hit a la Dion Phaneuf, but he definitely has the ability to hit a la Dion Phaneuf. He could potentially grow out of his positioning issues, and would become a solid bottom pairing defender in EHEC if he can.
Brett Pesce, D
Drafted: 3rd round, 86th overall
72POT, 91CON; 6’3, 174lbs
Potential: #5 defenseman
Comparable to: Jan Hejda
Pesce impressed Washington scouts enough to get drafted higher than expected. So far, the gamble has paid off and he has already shown improvement. Pesce will likely start the season in Hershey, where he should develop into the prototypical third-pairing defenseman that management will spend time developing yet ends up being traded eventually (see Dominik Bittner, Colby Cohen, Shaone Morrisonn, etc).
Avery Peterson, C
Drafted: 3rd round, 90th overall
52POT, 81CON; 6’2, 193lbs
Potential: 3rd line center
Comparable to: David Backes
Peterson is a long-term project, and won't make an impact for 3-5 years even if he reaches his full potential. However, he has shown considerable improvement this off-season, and could make a case for being a steal in the third round if he continues to develop. He could end up a poor man's David Backes, but Washington would be ecstatic if he became a rich man's David Steckel.
Ben Harpur, D
Drafted: 4th round, 92nd overall
70POT, 92CON; 6’6, 210lbs
Potential: #6/#7 defenseman
Comparable to: Colby Cohen
See Luke Ripley.
Wiley Sherman, D
Drafted: 4th round, 106th overall
47POT, 85CON; 6’6, 196lbs
Potential: #5 defenseman
Comparable to: Brooks Orpik
See Luke Ripley, although even that’s a stretch. He could end up challenging fellow 2013 draftees Pesce, Harpur, and Ripley as a physical stay-at-home defender, or he could end up a useless monster like Ryan O’Byrne.
David Kampf, RW
Drafted: 4th round, 116th overall
48POT, 80CON; 6’0, 168lbs
Potential: Top-six forward
Comparable to: Filip Forsberg
Kampf marks another high-risk, high-reward pick for the Capitals 2013 draft. He could very well end up working at an EHEC concession stand in four years, like many 22-year-olds in the current economy. However, if Kampf can put it all together, he could become a 30-goal winger in EHEC.
Fabrice Herzog, RW
Drafted: 5th round, 146th overall
71POT, 80CON; 6’1, 194lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Andrew Ebbett
Herzog is a long shot to ever make the pro roster. If anything, it’s because of his sniping ability – the rest of his game is very mediocre. At least he has a cool name.
David Griger, LW
Drafted: 6th round, 176th overall
43POT, 86CON; 5’10, 168lbs
Potential: Top-six forward
Comparable to: Andy McDonald
Yet another boom-or-bust pick, Griger could become a 60-point center in five years. However, size is an issue, and it’s unlikely he’ll get a chance with the Washington organization unless he exceeds all expectations of him.
Taylor Cammarata, C
Drafted: 7th round, 206th overall
75POT, 54CON; 5’7, 156lbs
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Comparable to: Artemy Panarin
Meh.
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CapsGM
Washington’s Top 10 Prospects
#1 – Jimmy Lodge, C
Drafted: 2013, 1st round, 26th overall
Potential: 2nd-line center
#2 – Nick Sorensen, LW/RW
Drafted: 2013, 2nd round, 32nd overall
Potential: 3rd-line winger
#3 – Tristan Jarry, G
Drafted: 2013, 3rd round, 69th overall
Potential: Backup goaltender
#4 – Brett Pesce, D
Drafted: 2013, 3rd round, 86th overall
b]Potential:[/b] #5 defenseman
#5 – Erik Karlsson, C
Drafted: 2012, 1st round, 28th overall
Potential: 3rd-line center
#6 – Tyrel Seaman, C
Drafted: 2012, 2nd round, 55th overall
Potential: 3rd-line center
#7 – Luke Ripley, D
Drafted: 3rd round, 72nd overall
Potential: #6/#7 defenseman
#8 – Avery Peterson, C
Drafted: 3rd round, 90th overall
Potential: 3rd-line center
#9 – Philippe Hudon, RW
Drafted: 2011, 5th round, 145th overall
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
#10 – Artemy Panarin, LW
Drafted: 2010, 2nd round, 60th overall
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Graduated: Vladimir Tarasenko, Morgan Rielly, Phillipe Di Giuseppe, Max Friberg
Traded: Dougie Hamilton, Nikita Gusev
Organizational strengths: Many prospects in all positions with EHEC potential. Top four prospects could make the team in 2015 or sooner.
Organizational weaknesses: No high-end talent or defensemen capable of excelling at both ends of the ice.
Drafted: 2013, 1st round, 26th overall
Potential: 2nd-line center
#2 – Nick Sorensen, LW/RW
Drafted: 2013, 2nd round, 32nd overall
Potential: 3rd-line winger
#3 – Tristan Jarry, G
Drafted: 2013, 3rd round, 69th overall
Potential: Backup goaltender
#4 – Brett Pesce, D
Drafted: 2013, 3rd round, 86th overall
b]Potential:[/b] #5 defenseman
#5 – Erik Karlsson, C
Drafted: 2012, 1st round, 28th overall
Potential: 3rd-line center
#6 – Tyrel Seaman, C
Drafted: 2012, 2nd round, 55th overall
Potential: 3rd-line center
#7 – Luke Ripley, D
Drafted: 3rd round, 72nd overall
Potential: #6/#7 defenseman
#8 – Avery Peterson, C
Drafted: 3rd round, 90th overall
Potential: 3rd-line center
#9 – Philippe Hudon, RW
Drafted: 2011, 5th round, 145th overall
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
#10 – Artemy Panarin, LW
Drafted: 2010, 2nd round, 60th overall
Potential: Top-six AHL forward
Graduated: Vladimir Tarasenko, Morgan Rielly, Phillipe Di Giuseppe, Max Friberg
Traded: Dougie Hamilton, Nikita Gusev
Organizational strengths: Many prospects in all positions with EHEC potential. Top four prospects could make the team in 2015 or sooner.
Organizational weaknesses: No high-end talent or defensemen capable of excelling at both ends of the ice.
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CapsGM
Re: Washington Capitals 2013 Draft Review, Part II
More playoff disappointment brings more lineup changes. Although 2013 was not as entertaining as the big moves of 2011 or 2012, two big trades this off-season saw Jarret Stoll, Nikita Gusev, Taylor Pyatt, and Mike Fisher dealt away. Forwards Wojtek Wolski, David Booth, and the familiar Jean-Pierre Dumont have been brought in. However, the core over the past two seasons in Pavel Datsyuk, Andrei Markov, Karl Alzner, and Semyon Varlamov is still intact, and it's unlikely the opening roster will change more unless a 2013 draftee makes a big splash out of camp.
Wolski was acquired in a deal from Colorado for Stoll, Pyatt, and Gusev, and brings a level of physicality that has been sorely missed since the Ovechkin trade. Also part of the deal were the 39th and 69th overall picks in the 2013 draft, which Washington draft winger Nick Sorensen (through moving up) and goalie Tristan Jarry. Both lack top-end talent but will become EHEC-ready players in 1-2 years.
The second deal was a sign-and-trade with Montreal. Veteran Mike Fisher and a 2014 second round pick were dealt for power forward Booth, and both teams are happy with the trade on paper thus far. However, the Capitals were happy 1.5 seasons ago when they dealt Brian Boyle for Fisher, yet management has been criticized for dealing the 6'7 monster in Boyle. The city hopes that Wolski and Booth can bring the combination of physicality and offense that has been missing since Ovechkin and Boyle flanked the Washington wings.
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CapsGM
Re: The Washington Post
Following a busy 2013 EHEC Entry Draft, the volume of trades and rumours has dropped since the league went into hibernation after a stressful 2013 season. Washington was active as usual in the free agent market. Notable acquisitions include Jean-Pierre Dumont and Shaone Morrisonn, both in their second stint with the team, and former Stanley Cup winner Colin White, who looks to provide some veteran leadership after taking an entire season off.
In:
David Booth (acquired via trade)
Jean-Pierre Dumont (UFA)
David Griger (2013 draftee)
Ben Harpur (2013 draftee)
Tristan Jarry (2013 draftee)
David Kampf (2013 draftee)
Jimmy Lodge (2013 draftee)
Shaone Morrisonn (UFA)
Brett Pesce (2013 draftee)
Justin Peters (UFA)
Avery Peterson (2013 draftee)
Luke Ripley (2013 draftee)
Wiley Sherman (2013 draftee)
Nick Sorensen (2013 draftee)
Colin White (UFA)
Wojtek Wolski (acquired via trade)
Out:
WHO CARES
Likely 2014 opening night lineup:
Zach Parise/Pavel Datsyuk/Vladimir Tarasenko
Wojtek Wolski/Olli Jokinen/David Booth
Jean-Pierre Dumont/Gregory Hofmann/Philippe Di Giuseppe
Brian Lashoff/David Steckel/Fernando Pisani
Andrei Markov/Karl Alzner
Morgan Rielly/Cam Barker
Zbynek Michalek/Shaone Morrisonn
Simeon Varlamov
Michal Neuvirth
In:
David Booth (acquired via trade)
Jean-Pierre Dumont (UFA)
David Griger (2013 draftee)
Ben Harpur (2013 draftee)
Tristan Jarry (2013 draftee)
David Kampf (2013 draftee)
Jimmy Lodge (2013 draftee)
Shaone Morrisonn (UFA)
Brett Pesce (2013 draftee)
Justin Peters (UFA)
Avery Peterson (2013 draftee)
Luke Ripley (2013 draftee)
Wiley Sherman (2013 draftee)
Nick Sorensen (2013 draftee)
Colin White (UFA)
Wojtek Wolski (acquired via trade)
Out:
WHO CARES
Likely 2014 opening night lineup:
Zach Parise/Pavel Datsyuk/Vladimir Tarasenko
Wojtek Wolski/Olli Jokinen/David Booth
Jean-Pierre Dumont/Gregory Hofmann/Philippe Di Giuseppe
Brian Lashoff/David Steckel/Fernando Pisani
Andrei Markov/Karl Alzner
Morgan Rielly/Cam Barker
Zbynek Michalek/Shaone Morrisonn
Simeon Varlamov
Michal Neuvirth
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CapsGM
Washington Capitals 2014 Draft Review
Adrian Kempe, C/LW
Drafted: 1st round, 8th overall
75POT, 87CON, 6’2, 187lbs
Potential: #2 power forward center
Comparable to: Gabriel Mandeskog
Washington’s scouting staff was pleased to draft Kempe with their first top ten pick since 2012. Kempe projects to be a physical two-way center with a strong shot. His weaknesses are his offensive creativity and his hockey awareness, but if he rounds out both he can easily become a force for the Capitals in 1-2 seasons.
Juho Lammikko, RW/LW
Drafted: 1st round, 21st overall
73POT, 79CON, 6’3, 189lbs
Potential: 2nd-line shutdown winger
Comparable to: Sam Gagner
The D.C. scouts were ecstatic that Lammikko was still around with their own first round pick, as they were rumoured to even move up in order to select him. At 6’3 and with decent offensive ability already, the Finnish winger may be tearing up Hershey immediately next season. What Kempe lacks is Lammikko’s strengths; however, his weak shot made him fall to the late first round.
Jack Dougherty, D
Drafted: 2nd round, 51st overall
62POT, 78CON, 6’2, 185lbs
Potential: #4 defensive defenseman
Comparable to: Cam Barker
Another player with size and consistency, Dougherty was the Capitals’ first defenseman selected in the 2014 draft. Dougherty is a risk and even if he does reach his full potential, it won’t be for at least another three seasons. It is possible for him to pan out as EHEC Cam Barker or NHL Cam Barker.
Brandon Hickey, D
Drafted: 3rd round, 81st overall
56POT, 90CON, 6’2, 181lbs
Potential: Top 4 two-way defenseman
Comparable to: Mattias Ohlund
Size and consistency continues to be a priority for the Capitals. A lot must go right for Hickey to realize his ceiling, but if he ever does, he could become one of the top defensemen of the 2014 draft. With many young defensemen in the system, the Capitals can afford to be patient with Hickey’s development.
Daniel Bagenda, LW
Drafted: 5th round, 141st overall
75POT, 73CON, 6’1, 198lbs
Potential: 3rd-line winger
Comparable to: Matthew Lombardi
The first player the Capitals drafted this season under 6’2, Bagenda has an outside chance of making a pro roster eventually. However, he will need to impress in order to ever make the Capitals deep group of forwards. Dat speed tho
Anthony Angello, C/RW
Drafted: 6th round, 171st overall
60POT, 65CON, 6’5, 195lbs
Potential: 4th-line forward
Comparable to: Zack Stortini
Goon.
Cordell James, C/LW
Drafted: 7th round, 201st overall
69POT, 61CON, 6’1, 190lbs
Potential: 4th-line winger
Comparable to: Fernando Pisani
Similar to Bagenda with less offensive upside. James could carve out a career as a PK specialist, but it’s more likely as AHL depth.
Drafted: 1st round, 8th overall
75POT, 87CON, 6’2, 187lbs
Potential: #2 power forward center
Comparable to: Gabriel Mandeskog
Washington’s scouting staff was pleased to draft Kempe with their first top ten pick since 2012. Kempe projects to be a physical two-way center with a strong shot. His weaknesses are his offensive creativity and his hockey awareness, but if he rounds out both he can easily become a force for the Capitals in 1-2 seasons.
Juho Lammikko, RW/LW
Drafted: 1st round, 21st overall
73POT, 79CON, 6’3, 189lbs
Potential: 2nd-line shutdown winger
Comparable to: Sam Gagner
The D.C. scouts were ecstatic that Lammikko was still around with their own first round pick, as they were rumoured to even move up in order to select him. At 6’3 and with decent offensive ability already, the Finnish winger may be tearing up Hershey immediately next season. What Kempe lacks is Lammikko’s strengths; however, his weak shot made him fall to the late first round.
Jack Dougherty, D
Drafted: 2nd round, 51st overall
62POT, 78CON, 6’2, 185lbs
Potential: #4 defensive defenseman
Comparable to: Cam Barker
Another player with size and consistency, Dougherty was the Capitals’ first defenseman selected in the 2014 draft. Dougherty is a risk and even if he does reach his full potential, it won’t be for at least another three seasons. It is possible for him to pan out as EHEC Cam Barker or NHL Cam Barker.
Brandon Hickey, D
Drafted: 3rd round, 81st overall
56POT, 90CON, 6’2, 181lbs
Potential: Top 4 two-way defenseman
Comparable to: Mattias Ohlund
Size and consistency continues to be a priority for the Capitals. A lot must go right for Hickey to realize his ceiling, but if he ever does, he could become one of the top defensemen of the 2014 draft. With many young defensemen in the system, the Capitals can afford to be patient with Hickey’s development.
Daniel Bagenda, LW
Drafted: 5th round, 141st overall
75POT, 73CON, 6’1, 198lbs
Potential: 3rd-line winger
Comparable to: Matthew Lombardi
The first player the Capitals drafted this season under 6’2, Bagenda has an outside chance of making a pro roster eventually. However, he will need to impress in order to ever make the Capitals deep group of forwards. Dat speed tho
Anthony Angello, C/RW
Drafted: 6th round, 171st overall
60POT, 65CON, 6’5, 195lbs
Potential: 4th-line forward
Comparable to: Zack Stortini
Goon.
Cordell James, C/LW
Drafted: 7th round, 201st overall
69POT, 61CON, 6’1, 190lbs
Potential: 4th-line winger
Comparable to: Fernando Pisani
Similar to Bagenda with less offensive upside. James could carve out a career as a PK specialist, but it’s more likely as AHL depth.
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CapsGM
Re: The Washington Post
There’s just three weeks to go until the opening night of EHEC’s sixth season, and the Capitals coaching staff continues to evaluate the infusion of youth and free agents into the system. With the departure of veterans J.P. Dumont, Patrik Elias, Pavel Kubina, and Zack Stortini, and the long-term injury of winger Wojtek Wolski, there are many open roster spots, and D.C. fans are interested to see who will make the team this year. Also gone is starting goaltender Simeon Varlamov. Replacing him are two of the top free agent goaltenders on the market – recent Cup winner Miikka Kiprusoff, and veteran Mike Smith.
2013 draft picks Jimmy Lodge and Nick Sorensen are the most likely candidates to fill the top six spots left by Wolski and Elias. Lodge, the club’s first round choice in the 2013 draft, has the offensive skill to play on a scoring line, and Sorensen, the second pick, has the defensive awareness to play on a shutdown line immediately. 2014 first round picks Adrian Kempe and Juho Lammikko have been given extended evaluations as well, but will likely start the season in juniors or Hershey. On defense, 2013 pick Brett Pesce may be given a role anchoring the third defensive pairing.
Projected starting lineups:
Zach Parise / Pavel Datsyuk / Nick Sorensen
Erik Cole / Gregory Hofmann / David Booth
Olli Jokinen / Jimmy Lodge / Vladimir Tarasenko
Todd Fedoruk / Boyd Gordon / Troy Brouwer
Morgan Rielly / Karl Alzner
Andrei Markov / Cam Barker
Brian Lashoff / Jim Vandermeer
Miikka Kiprusoff
Mike Smith
Projected fantasy pool stats:
Pavel Datsyuk – 75GP: 30 goals, 44 assists
Vladimir Tarasenko – 71GP: 28 goals, 42 assists
Zach Parise – 82GP: 33 goals, 37 assists
Olli Jokinen – 73GP: 26 goals, 31 assists
Jimmy Lodge – 77GP: 16 goals, 34 assists
David Booth – 75GP: 25 goals, 23 assists
Morgan Rielly – 76GP: 9 goals, 33 assists
Erik Cole – 77GP: 18 goals, 22 assists
Andrei Markov – 79GP: 6 goals, 31 assists
Gregory Hofmann – 66GP: 15 goals, 31 assists
Nick Sorensen – 72GP: 11 goals, 24 assists
Wojtek Wolski – 39GP: 10 goals, 21 assists
Cam Barker – 82GP: 8 goals, 22 assists
Troy Brouwer – 69GP: 8 goals, 19 assists
2013 draft picks Jimmy Lodge and Nick Sorensen are the most likely candidates to fill the top six spots left by Wolski and Elias. Lodge, the club’s first round choice in the 2013 draft, has the offensive skill to play on a scoring line, and Sorensen, the second pick, has the defensive awareness to play on a shutdown line immediately. 2014 first round picks Adrian Kempe and Juho Lammikko have been given extended evaluations as well, but will likely start the season in juniors or Hershey. On defense, 2013 pick Brett Pesce may be given a role anchoring the third defensive pairing.
Projected starting lineups:
Zach Parise / Pavel Datsyuk / Nick Sorensen
Erik Cole / Gregory Hofmann / David Booth
Olli Jokinen / Jimmy Lodge / Vladimir Tarasenko
Todd Fedoruk / Boyd Gordon / Troy Brouwer
Morgan Rielly / Karl Alzner
Andrei Markov / Cam Barker
Brian Lashoff / Jim Vandermeer
Miikka Kiprusoff
Mike Smith
Projected fantasy pool stats:
Pavel Datsyuk – 75GP: 30 goals, 44 assists
Vladimir Tarasenko – 71GP: 28 goals, 42 assists
Zach Parise – 82GP: 33 goals, 37 assists
Olli Jokinen – 73GP: 26 goals, 31 assists
Jimmy Lodge – 77GP: 16 goals, 34 assists
David Booth – 75GP: 25 goals, 23 assists
Morgan Rielly – 76GP: 9 goals, 33 assists
Erik Cole – 77GP: 18 goals, 22 assists
Andrei Markov – 79GP: 6 goals, 31 assists
Gregory Hofmann – 66GP: 15 goals, 31 assists
Nick Sorensen – 72GP: 11 goals, 24 assists
Wojtek Wolski – 39GP: 10 goals, 21 assists
Cam Barker – 82GP: 8 goals, 22 assists
Troy Brouwer – 69GP: 8 goals, 19 assists