Capitals 3, Penguins 1

So what happened?

The Caps rode a hot goaltender along with a few key plays to a win over the Pens. Both teams had spurts where they turned up the pressure, but Washington was able to capitalize on the chances they received.

The Pens were unable to score on four power play chances. That was the single biggest disappointment. They also allowed a power play goal to the Caps.

Flower was solid, making several key saves, but his miscue when trying to play the puck behind the net gave a wide open net to Eric Fehr on what would be the game winning goal.

It's hard to view this as just another regular season game. It felt like more than that. In the end, however, it is worth the same two points to the Caps, and will be just another loss for the Pens when the season comes to a close.

Who scored?

Malkin (14)

The Good?

• The effort and intensity was there.
• Staal was able to return. He was very effective on faceoffs and had some visibility early on.

The Bad?

• The ice conditions were bad. If that game is on a regular rink, Fleury doesn't misplay the puck.
• The hit Sid took at the end of the second was nasty and should have been a penalty. You don't really want your superstar getting blindsided on a national TV showcase.

The Ugly?

• The TV broadcast was the worst part. They were nowhere near close enough to the ice surface. The result was the worst viewing experience I've had since all of the games went to HD.

Any Surprises?

• Staal's return would be a surprise. Asham playing less than 5 minutes would be another one.

What's their record now? Any important move in the standings?

The Pens are now 25-12-3. They have 53 points and are still on top of the standings in the NHL (though they are tied with Detroit).

Who's next?

It doesn't get any easier, as Tampa Bay is coming to Consol on Wednesday.

Game #40 - The Winter Classic

Game 40 - The Winter Classic

Capitals (22-12-5, 49 points) at Penguins (25-11-3, 53 points)

Why does it matter?
You won't get a better hockey spectacle than this game. Everything about the event will be special and something to savor.

What has been happening lately?

• Pens - The Pens have been plagued by a bit of inconsistency lately, with the power play, the PK and the final scores all over the map.
• Capitals - The Caps not only have ended their losing streak, they have points in 5 straight games (4-0-1) and are playing well.

Questions to be answered

• Will the teams be too juiced up to start the game?
• Did someone outfit Geno with the rear view and side view mirrors so he can see Ovechkin coming this time?
• How will Staal's return impact the second line? Will HCDB put Staal right back up there, or will he work Jordan into a more familiar role on the third line until he gets his legs back?

Keys to the game

• Watch Ovechkin, especially early. He's sure to try to run someone in the name of "excitement".
• Win at even-strength. The Caps and Pens have both been inconsistent at best on the power play lately.
• Roll four lines and stay out of the box. Given the importance of even-strength play, you want to let the guys get into the flow of the game (especially with Staal returning).

Winter Classic Moved to 8:00 pm EST

Given the seeming weather situation, the NHL has moved the Winter Classic to a start time of 8:00 p.m. EST.

I like the move - I think the game will look great under the lights and the temperatures will be much more along the lines of what the players are used to for outdoor hockey.

It should be a great game. Preview will be up later tonight or tomorrow morning.