2017-2018 Recap:
The Washington Capitals finally lifted their first Stanley Cup in franchise history. After many years of heartbreak, Alexander Ovechkin and his teammates finally hoisted the cup after winning every single playoff series on the road. It was the most successful season in Capitals history. Ovechkin had is most successful season yet after winning four trophies. The Stanley Cup, The Prince of Wales Trophy, The Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy, and the Conn Smythe trophy. Evgeny Kuznetsov also had one of the most successful post seasons in NHL history with 34 points in 24 appearances in the post season.
Off Season Moves:
Additions: New Head Coach Todd Reirden and his staff; Nic Dowd, C; Dmitrij Jaskin, RW
Subtractions: Barry Trotz and his staff; Jay Beagle, C; Philip Grubauer, G, Alex Chiasson, RW
- Ep. 197: Fields to Pittsburgh, Still Available Free Agentsby Full Press Coverage on March 18, 2024 at 8:00 pm
What to Expect:
Last year was the Capitals most successful year. The best way to follow up such a fantastic season is to do it again. Players are coming in fresh to preseason and everyone has their eyes set on lifting the Cup for the second consecutive season. With a new coaching staff, there could be an adjustment period. But, because of the successful off season moves, the Capitals have managed to keep the core of their Stanley Cup winning team.
For the Capitals to have the same success this year, they need to play exactly like they did last year. The Capitals know that they now have a target on their back, and they are accepting the pressure. Another key to success is keeping a healthy team. Injuries were a big problem for the Capitals last year. But, even when injuries struck, the next player in line stepped up to the podium and matched the level of play.
The Capitals cannot remained satisfied with last year’s victory. They are looking to lift the Cup again with the same focus as last year. While the Capitals still have good odds to repeat this year, challenges await. The Capitals are certainly a playoff team again, but how far they go in playoffs can depend on injuries, player form and coaching.
The Capitals started the new season by beating Boston 7-0 Wednesday night.
Cover Photo Credit: Associated Press Photo/Nick Wass)
Zac Herr covers the National Hockey League for Full Press Coverage.
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