A Washington Capitals blog from the most powerful city in the world 2012-05-16T16:00:53Z http://www.japersrink.com/rss/index.xml 2012-05-16T16:00:53Z 2012-05-16T16:00:53Z <img alt="Yep, that's right after the one, April 29, 2011." height="297" src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/entry_photo_images/4054156/GYI0064518234_extra_large.jpg" width="450" /> <p><strong><em>1</em></strong> - Number of goals that <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54348/alexander-semin" class="sbn-auto-link">Alexander Semin</a> has scored in the 25 games that comprise the last four series in which the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/teams/washington-capitals" class="sbn-auto-link">Capitals</a> have been eliminated from the playoffs (he was goal-less in seven games against each of Pittsburgh, Montreal and New York, and lit the lamp once against Tampa Bay). By contrast, Semin has 11 goals in 18 games in the series the Caps have won in the past four springs.</p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/6JZQnCyEmRCLWrnEohKmU20PIlg/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/6JZQnCyEmRCLWrnEohKmU20PIlg/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/6JZQnCyEmRCLWrnEohKmU20PIlg/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/6JZQnCyEmRCLWrnEohKmU20PIlg/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p> http://www.japersrink.com/2012/5/16/3024081/the-noon-number J.P. 2012-05-16T15:00:15Z 2012-05-16T15:00:15Z <p><i>From Alzner to Wideman, we're taking a look at and grading (please read the criteria below) the 2011-12 season for every player who laced 'em up for the Caps for a significant number of games during the campaign, with an eye towards 2012-13. Next up, Nicklas Backstrom.</i></p> <p></p> <hr class="widget_boundry_marker"> <div class="pane sports_data_widget player_info clearfix"> <img src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/player_photos/l.nhl.com/xt.fss.l.nhl.com-p.2198.gif"><h2><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54343/nicklas-backstrom" target="_blank">Nicklas Backstrom</a></h2> <h4 class="player-position">#19 / Center / <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/teams/washington-capitals">Washington Capitals</a> </h4> <div class="player_info_body"> <p><label>Height:</label> 6-1</p> <p><label>Weight:</label> 213</p> <p><label>Born:</label> Nov 23, 1987</p> <p><label>NHL Seasons:</label> 5</p> <p><label><a href="http://capgeek.com/players/display.php?id=844" target="_blank">Contract Status</a>:</label> $6,700,000 cap hit through 2012-13; UFA summer 2020</p> <p><label><a href="http://www.japersrink.com/2011/5/11/2161114/2010-11-rink-wrap-nicklas-backstrom" target="_blank">'10-'11 Rink Wrap</a>:</label> 4.58 rating</p> <p><label><a href="http://www.japersrink.com/2010/5/4/1456680/2009-10-rink-wrap-nicklas-backstrom" target="_blank">'09-'10 Rink Wrap</a>:</label> 9.24 rating</p> <p><label><a href="http://www.japersrink.com/2009/5/19/878117/2008-09-rink-wrap-nicklas-backstrom" target="_blank">'08-'09 Rink Wrap</a>:</label> 8.43 rating</p> <p><a href="http://www.japersrink.com/2008/04/2007-08-rink-wrap-nicklas-backstrom.html" target="_blank">'07-'08 Rink Wrap</a>: 8.61 rating</p> </div> </div> <hr class="widget_boundry_marker"> <p></p> <hr class="widget_boundry_marker"> <div class="pane sports_data_widget player_stats clearfix"> <table class="zebra"> <thead><tr> <th></th> <th>GP</th> <th>G</th> <th>A</th> <th>P</th> <th>+/-</th> <th>PIM</th> <th>PPG</th> <th>SHG</th> <th>GWG</th> <th>SOG</th> <th>PCT</th> </tr></thead> <tbody> <tr> <td class="td-name td-first">Regular Season</td> <td>42</td> <td>14</td> <td>30</td> <td>44</td> <td>-4</td> <td>24</td> <td>3</td> <td>0</td> <td>4</td> <td>95</td> <td class="td-last">14.7</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="td-name td-first">Playoffs</td> <td>13</td> <td>2</td> <td>6</td> <td>8</td> <td>2</td> <td>18</td> <td>0</td> <td>0</td> <td>1</td> <td>25</td> <td class="td-last">8.0</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p><b>Key Stat</b>: Backstrom was the only Caps player to average more than a point per game on the season.</p> <p><b>Interesting Stat</b>: Nick Backstrom was the Caps' leading point scorer on the season until the 13th game he was sidelined following his concussion; he led the team in total assists for another 15 games after that.</p> <p><b>The Good</b>: After a disappointing 2010-11 by the lofty standards he'd set for himself, Backstrom came out of the gates on fire in 2011-12 and re-established himself as one of the premiere offensive players in the league. Backstrom was neck-and-neck with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/55425/evgeni-malkin" class="sbn-auto-link">Evgeni Malkin</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/55015/claude-giroux" class="sbn-auto-link">Claude Giroux</a> in the league scoring race when New Year's came around. In fact, Nick had more multi-point games than he had scoreless games through January 3rd. Backstrom was able to do this despite a languishing offensive unit around him, which led to a coaching change, which resulted in an even more moribund offense than that which necessitated the coaching change.</p> <p>Backstrom was also reliable in all three zones. <b>Dale Hunter</b> picked his spots with his Russian scorers in the playoffs, but Backstrom's two-way game allowed him to take the ice in more situations. Backstrom<a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=30&s=8&f1=2011_p&f2=5v5&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67" target="_blank"> led all forwards in five-on-five time on ice per game</a> during the playoffs (after being second to only <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54337/alex-ovechkin" class="sbn-auto-link">Alex Ovechkin</a> in the regular season), and he was the <i>only </i>Caps player to have<a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=30&s=30&f1=2011_p&f2=5v5&f5=WSH&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67" target="_blank"> a positive Corsi-on during the playoffs</a>. Backstrom also only went two games in a row without a point once in the playoffs (Game 7 against Boston, Game 1 against New York). In two tight, low-scoring series, it's crucial to see star players show up with some reliability.</p> <p><b>The Bad</b>: Following Backstrom's three-point night against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/teams/calgary-flames" class="sbn-auto-link">Calgary Flames</a> on January 3rd, he was held pointless until the final game of the season when he had a goal and an assist against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/teams/new-york-rangers" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Rangers</a>. Some of that pointless streak can be chalked up to good defense, but the vast majority of it can be chalked up to a dirty elbow from our friend, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54660/rene-bourque" target="_blank">Rene The Rat</a> (fun fact, during Backstrom's 40-game absence he was outscored by The Rat by eight whole points). Obviously there's nothing Nick could do about another player's disrespectful and filthy behavior; the only thing we'd really want to change about Backstrom's season would be to get his chin out of the way of that elbow.</p> <p>But if we're going to nitpick, Backstrom's even-strength possession numbers weren't exactly eye-opening. Only three forwards had better Corsi-on than he did on the season, <a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=30&s=30&f1=2011_s&f2=5v5&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67" target="_blank">but Backstrom's Corsi was only moderately positive</a>. Even given the possession troubles that the team dealt with during the beginning portion of Hunter's tenure, you'd like to see such a talented (and important) player spend more time in the offensive zone.</p> <p>Finally, while you can question the call and the ultimate punishment, Backstrom simply cannot take himself out of the lineup with retaliation penalties. Backstrom lost his cool at the end of game 3 against Boston and ended up spending Game 4 wearing a suit. His teammates stepped up and kept the series from going 1-3 in Boston's favor, but there's no excuse for putting the team in that kind of spot. We're sure Backstrom knows this as well as anyone and doesn't need to be told.</p> <p><b>The Vote</b>: Rate Backstrom below on a scale of 1-10 (10 being the best) based on his performance <i><b>relative to his potential and your expectations</b></i> for the season - if he had the best year you could have imagined him having, give him a 10; if he more or less played as you expected he would, give him a 5 or a 6; if he had the worst year you could have imagined him having, give him a 1.</p> <p><b>The Discussion</b>: Backstrom is locked up as a core piece of the team for the rest of the decade, so there aren't any contract concerns. What does he need to do to get on the short list of the league's elite centers (if you don't think he's already there)? What parts of his game does he need to improve or round out? What would make his current contract look like a great deal, or a bad deal, for the Caps? What would Backstrom's role be on a championship team, is that how the Caps used him? Finally, what will it take for him to earn a 10 rating next year?</p> <fieldset class="poll-box"> <legend>Poll</legend> <h5 class="poll-title">How do you rate Nicklas Backstrom's 2011-12 season?</h5> <div id="poll_container_139065_958853096"> <form action="/polls/vote/139065?container_id=poll_container_139065_958853096" method="post" onsubmit="new Ajax.Request('/polls/vote/139065?container_id=poll_container_139065_958853096', {asynchronous:true, evalScripts:true, parameters:Form.serialize(this)}); return false;"> <ul class="poll-list clearfix"> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_619980" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="619980" /></span> <label for="poll_option_619980"><span class="option">10</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_619981" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="619981" /></span> <label for="poll_option_619981"><span class="option">9</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_619982" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="619982" /></span> <label for="poll_option_619982"><span class="option">8</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_619983" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="619983" /></span> <label for="poll_option_619983"><span class="option">7</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_619984" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="619984" /></span> <label for="poll_option_619984"><span class="option">6</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_619985" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="619985" /></span> <label for="poll_option_619985"><span class="option">5</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_619986" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="619986" /></span> <label for="poll_option_619986"><span class="option">4</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_619987" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="619987" /></span> <label for="poll_option_619987"><span class="option">3</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_619988" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="619988" /></span> <label for="poll_option_619988"><span class="option">2</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_619989" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="619989" /></span> <label for="poll_option_619989"><span class="option">1</span></label></li> </ul> <p class="poll-vote-submit"><input class="button" name="commit" type="submit" value="Vote!" /> <span> &nbsp; <span>514 votes |</span> <a href="#" onclick="new Ajax.Request('/polls/results/139065?container_id=poll_container_139065_958853096', {asynchronous:true, evalScripts:true}); return false;">Results</a></span></p> </form> </div> </fieldset> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/FSXFW6d2_hUl_cRT7RPcKT3ZtVI/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/FSXFW6d2_hUl_cRT7RPcKT3ZtVI/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/FSXFW6d2_hUl_cRT7RPcKT3ZtVI/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/FSXFW6d2_hUl_cRT7RPcKT3ZtVI/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p> http://www.japersrink.com/2012/5/16/3020858/2011-12-rink-wrap-nicklas-backstrom Rob Parker 2012-05-16T10:37:07Z 2012-05-16T10:37:07Z <img alt="April 21, 2012; Boston, MA, USA; Washington Capitals right wing Alexander Semin (28) celebrates a goal during the second period against the Boston Bruins in game five of the 2012 Eastern Conference quarterfinals at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-US PRESSWIRE" height="200" src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/entry_photo_images/4049385/20120421_jla_sj7_319_extra_large.jpg" width="300" /> <p><i>Y</i><i>our savory breakfast links:</i></p> <p>● If you didn't get your fill of "Dale Hunter calls it quits" links yesterday, here's a fresh batch. [<a href="http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2012/may/15/snyder-family-business-suits-hunter-best/" target="_blank">WashTimes</a>, <a href="http://www.csnwashington.com/hockey-washington-capitals/capitals-talk/Ovechkins-role-in-Hunters-decision?blockID=708188&feedID=6357" target="_blank">CSNW</a>, <a href="http://www.homermcfanboy.com/2012/05/15/with-hunter-gone-change-is-inevitable/" target="_blank">HomerMcFanboy</a> and <a href="http://www.hockeyprimetime.com/news/southeast/dale-hunter-steps-down-from-capitals" target="_blank">HPT</a> with recaps of players comments at <a href="http://www.csnwashington.com/hockey-washington-capitals/capitals-talk/Caps-on-playing-in-the-Hunter-era?blockID=708194&feedID=10283" target="_blank">CSNW</a> and <a href="http://www.russianmachineneverbreaks.com/2012/05/15/capitals-talk-future-dale-hunters-departure-on-breakup-day/" target="_blank">RMNB</a>]</p> <p>● But enough looking back, let's look forward. [<a href="http://insider.espn.go.com/nhl/blog/_/name/custance_craig/id/7932102/washington-capitals-facing-big-questions-offseason-nhl" target="_blank">ESPN</a>, <a href="http://live.washingtonpost.com/dale-hunter-capitals-future-051512.html" target="_blank">WaPo</a> (and <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/hard-hits/post/and-now-the-questions-about-the-caps-future/2012/05/15/gIQAhHHHRU_blog.html" target="_blank">again</a>), <a href="http://dc.sbnation.com/washington-capitals/2012/5/15/3021115/washington-capitals-dale-hunter-alexander-semin-george-mcphee-nhl-offseason-2012" target="_blank">SB Nation DC</a>, <a href="http://fanspeak.com/fsnhl/2012/05/15/caps-contemplate-massive-off-season/" target="_blank">Fanspeak</a>]</p> <p>● <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54348/alexander-semin" class="sbn-auto-link">Alexander Semin</a>'s agent seems to be a bit inconsistent in his statements regarding his client's intentions going forward, thereby making him the perfect man to represent Alexander Semin. [<a href="http://washington.cbslocal.com/?podcast_url=http://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/nyc.podcast.play.it/media/d0/d0/d1/d0/dI/d7/dS/10I7S_4.MP3%3Fauthtok%3D5561773317491324523_DCNZP4kQBLYo2ZdieVhT1iHnUk&podcast_name=ALEXANDER+SEMIN%26%23039;S+AGENT,+MARK+GANDLER,+JOINS+GRANT+PAULSEN+AND+SKY+KERSTEIN&podcast_artist=106.7+The+Fan&station_id=114&tag=pages&dcid=CBS.WASHINGTON" target="_blank">106.7 The Fan</a> (audio... highly recommended), <a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/alex-semin-denies-done-capitals-ovechkin-talks-ice-143626606.html" target="_blank">Puck Daddy</a> (with some bonus quotes from the captain), <a href="http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2012/may/15/alexander-semin-free-agent-capitals-gandler-mcphee/" target="_blank">WashTimes</a>]</p> <p>● In less-controversial Semin news, the man himself speaks on a number of less-controversial topics. [<a href="http://www.russianmachineneverbreaks.com/2012/05/15/alex-semin-on-ice-time-braden-holtby-and-hunter-hockey/" target="_blank">RMNB</a>]</p> <p>● <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/55503/matt-hendricks" class="sbn-auto-link">Matt Hendricks</a> did a hit with <i>The Junkies</i>... [<a href="http://washington.cbslocal.com/?podcast_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.podtrac.com%2Fpts%2Fredirect.mp3%2Fnyc.podcast.play.it%2Fmedia%2Fd0%2Fd0%2Fd1%2Fd0%2FdI%2Fd3%2Fd0%2F10I30_4.MP3%3Fauthtok%3D5561773320671798256_iaLO00kBEZwBQGHrhRzFys0&podcast_name=Seg.+09-+Matt+Hendricks&podcast_artist=The+Sports+Junkies&station_id=114&tag=pages&dcid=CBS.WASHINGTON" target="_blank">106.7 The Fan</a> (audio)]</p> <p>● ... and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54354/karl-alzner" class="sbn-auto-link">Karl Alzner</a> checked in with <i>LaVar and Dukes</i>. [<a href="http://washington.cbslocal.com/?podcast_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.podtrac.com%2Fpts%2Fredirect.mp3%2Fnyc.podcast.play.it%2Fmedia%2Fd0%2Fd0%2Fd1%2Fd0%2FdI%2Fd6%2FdZ%2F10I6Z_4.MP3%3Fauthtok%3D5561773326843122438_mEpxJf5ZtQPSk5tJecqR9zHREtI&podcast_name=Segment+5+Karl+Alzner&podcast_artist=106.7+The+Fan&station_id=114&tag=pages&dcid=CBS.WASHINGTON" target="_blank">106.7 The Fan</a> (audio)]</p> <p>● In which a beat-writer stops just short of banging the "Trade <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54337/alex-ovechkin" class="sbn-auto-link">Alex Ovechkin</a>" drum. [<a href="http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2012/may/15/whyno-is-ovechkin-still-the-man-for-capitals/" target="_blank">WashTimes</a>]</p> <p>● 30 Thoughts, Vogs style... [<a href="http://dumpnchase.com/?p=1593" target="_blank">Dump 'n Chase</a>]</p> <p>● ... and the original, with several Caps nuggets. [<a href="http://ctrlstudio.com/lab/weston/2012/05/15/friedman-patrick-kane-not-a-laughing-matter-30-thoughts/" target="_blank">CBC</a>]</p> <p><i>Notes on a few free agents, Dale-Departure winners and losers, Worlds and much more after the jump.</i></p> <p>● <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/65891/michal-neuvirth" class="sbn-auto-link">Michal Neuvirth</a> 's season didn't go exactly as planned. [<a href="http://kingsofleonsis.com/2012/05/15/michal-neuvirth-a-victim-of-circumstances/" target="_blank">KOL</a>]</p> <p>● Neither did <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54831/jeff-halpern" class="sbn-auto-link">Jeff Halpern</a>'s. [<a href="http://www.washingtontimes.com/blog/capitals-watch/2012/may/15/jeff-halpern-tried-put-happy-face-capitals/" target="_blank">WashTimes</a>, <a href="http://washingtonexaminer.com/sports/loose-pucks/2012/05/halpern-you-hope-theres-lot-other-opinions-out-there/613586" target="_blank">DCEx</a>]</p> <p>● But <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54850/tomas-vokoun" class="sbn-auto-link">Tomas Vokoun</a>'s did! Sorta. [<a href="http://washingtonexaminer.com/sports/loose-pucks/2012/05/vokoun-caps-ready-part-ways/614686" target="_blank">DCEx</a>, <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capitals-insider/post/tomas-vokoun-i-wasnt-planing-on-being-back-in-washington/2012/05/15/gIQAl3olRU_blog.html" target="_blank">WaPo</a>]</p> <p>● <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/55010/mike-knuble" class="sbn-auto-link">Mike Knuble</a>'s not done yet. [<a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capitals-insider/post/mike-knuble-says-he-feels-good-would-like-to-continue-playing/2012/05/15/gIQAHEisRU_blog.html" target="_blank">WaPo</a>]</p> <p>● Who are the big winners in Dale's departure ... [<a href="http://misterirrelevant.com/index.php/2012/05/15/five-caps-players-that-benefit-from-dale-hunters-departure/" target="_blank">Mr. I</a>]</p> <p>○ ... and who are the losers? [<a href="http://misterirrelevant.com/index.php/2012/05/15/five-capitals-that-suffer-from-dale-hunter%E2%80%99s-departure/#utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=five-capitals-that-suffer-from-dale-hunter%E2%80%99s-departure" target="_blank">Ibid.</a>]</p> <p>● In case you missed it, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54424/joel-ward" class="sbn-auto-link">Joel Ward</a> sat down with the Wall Street Journal to talk about <strike>the JPMorgan trading loss</strike> hockey. [<a href="http://capitalsoutsider.com/hub/nhl-player-joel-ward-hockey-is-for-everybody/" target="_blank">Caps Outsider</a>]</p> <p>● And the Caps' Conn Smythe goes to... guess. [<a href="http://rockthered.net/2012-articles/may/2011-12-capitals-awards-ceremony-conn-smythe-trophy.html" target="_blank">RtR</a>]</p> <p>● If season ticket renewals are any indication, you guys didn't hate Hunter Hockey as much as many of you claimed to. [<a href="http://www.tedstake.com/2012/05/15/thank-you-to-all-of-our-season-ticket-holders/" target="_blank">Ted's Take</a>]</p> <p>● In (sigh) international action ... [<a href="http://fhr.ru/" target="_blank">RMNB</a>]</p> <p>○ ... <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54343/nicklas-backstrom" class="sbn-auto-link">Nicklas B&auml;ckstr&ouml;m</a> suited up for Tre Kronor and provided a power play assist as Sweden defeated Latvia 4-0. B&auml;ckis is centering <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54422/patric-hornqvist" class="sbn-auto-link">Patric Hornqvist</a> and captain <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54373/daniel-alfredsson" class="sbn-auto-link">Daniel Alfredsson</a>. Sweden will play its quarterfinal match against a dangerous Czech team on Thursday. [<a href="http://www.iihf.com/competition/272/news/news-singleview-2012/recap/6789.html?tx_ttnews%5BbackPid%5D=6249&cHash=ff0c0e9b75" target="_blank">IIHF</a>]</p> <p>○... and the Sashas have joined Team Russia. They will play together on the second line, centered by <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/55726/pavel-datsyuk" class="sbn-auto-link">Pavel Datsyuk</a>. The puck drops on their quarterfinal round against Norway today at 2:15pm Eastern. Ovi granted an interview in Russian at his first practice with Sbornaya. [<a href="http://alexovetjkin.blogspot.com/2012/05/ovechkin-talks-to-russian-media.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FDXuq+%28Alex+Ovetjkin%29" target="_blank">Alex Ovetjkin</a>]</p> <p>● With four goals, three assists and a plus-8 in two championship-clinching games, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/111616/stanislav-galiev" class="sbn-auto-link">Stas Galiev</a> wraps up his Q career as the CHL Player of the Week. [<a href="http://stationnation.blogspot.ca/2012/05/galiev-named-chl-player-of-week.html" target="_blank">Station Nation</a>]</p> <p>● Finally, happy 28th birthday to <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54339/tomas-fleischmann" class="sbn-auto-link">Tomas Fleischmann</a>.</p> <p><a href="http://www.facebook.com/JapersRinkFanPage" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/images/icons/social/facebook_16.ve687b73.png" alt="Facebook_16"></a> <a href="http://www.twitter.com/JapersRink" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/images/icons/social/twitter_16.ve687b73.png" alt="Twitter_16"></a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/mcsw2OkLRfacrkujdsROjihv_q0/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/mcsw2OkLRfacrkujdsROjihv_q0/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/mcsw2OkLRfacrkujdsROjihv_q0/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/mcsw2OkLRfacrkujdsROjihv_q0/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p> http://www.japersrink.com/2012/5/16/3023167/wednesday-caps-clips J.P. 2012-05-16T10:30:29Z 2012-05-16T10:30:29Z <h2><a href="http://www.japersrink.com/2012/5/16/3023733/wednesday-off-topic-open-thread">Wednesday Off-Topic Open&nbsp;Thread</a></h2> <blockquote class="chat"> </blockquote> <div class="source"><p><a href=""></a></p></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/LrXZLjKgi_X2Fk3n7SsDKjIpSnw/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/LrXZLjKgi_X2Fk3n7SsDKjIpSnw/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/LrXZLjKgi_X2Fk3n7SsDKjIpSnw/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/LrXZLjKgi_X2Fk3n7SsDKjIpSnw/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p> http://www.japersrink.com/2012/5/16/3023733/wednesday-off-topic-open-thread J.P. 2012-05-15T16:00:46Z 2012-05-15T16:00:46Z <img alt="BOSTON, MA - APRIL 25: The Washington Capitals celebrate the overtime win after Game Seven of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at TD Garden on April 25, 2012 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Washington Capitals defeated the Boston Bruins 2-1 in overtime. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)" height="271" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/entry_photo_images/4040631/143402592_extra_large.jpg" width="450" /> <p><strong><em>30</em></strong> - Number of players - 17 forwards, 10 defensemen and three goalies - who <a href="http://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/WSH/2012.html" target="_blank">played at least one game</a> for the 2011-12 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/teams/washington-capitals" class="sbn-auto-link">Washington Capitals</a>, tying the franchise mark for fewest players used in a season (<a href="http://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/WSH/1992.html" target="_blank">1991-92</a>).</p> <p>(In case you're wondering - and you are - the most players the Caps used in a season was <a href="http://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/WSH/2004.html" target="_blank">51 in 2003-04</a>.)</p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/dAgoYLXlr99shtOa86AaZUwSy8M/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/dAgoYLXlr99shtOa86AaZUwSy8M/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/dAgoYLXlr99shtOa86AaZUwSy8M/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/dAgoYLXlr99shtOa86AaZUwSy8M/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p> http://www.japersrink.com/2012/5/15/3021523/the-noon-number J.P. 2012-05-15T15:00:36Z 2012-05-15T15:00:36Z <p><i>From Alzner to Wideman, we're taking a look at and grading (please read the criteria below) the 2011-12 season for every player who laced 'em up for the Caps for a significant number of games during the campaign, with an eye towards 2012-13. Next up, Keith Aucoin.</i></p> <p></p> <hr class="widget_boundry_marker"> <div class="pane sports_data_widget player_info clearfix"> <img src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/player_photos/l.nhl.com/xt.fss.l.nhl.com-p.1742.gif"><h2><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54349/keith-aucoin">Keith Aucoin</a></h2> <h4 class="player-position">#23 / Center / <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/teams/washington-capitals">Washington Capitals</a> </h4> <div class="player_info_body"> <p><label>Height:</label> 5-8</p> <p><label>Weight:</label> 171</p> <p><label>Born:</label> Nov 06, 1978</p> <p>NHL Seasons: 7 (parts)</p> <p><a href="http://capgeek.com/players/display.php?id=869" target="_blank">Contract Status</a>: $512,500 cap hit in 2011-12; UFA after 2011-12 season</p> <p> </p> </div> </div> <hr class="widget_boundry_marker"> <p></p> <hr class="widget_boundry_marker"> <div class="pane sports_data_widget player_stats clearfix"> <table class="zebra"> <thead><tr> <th></th> <th>GP</th> <th>G</th> <th>A</th> <th>P</th> <th>+/-</th> <th>PIM</th> <th>PPG</th> <th>SHG</th> <th>GWG</th> <th>SOG</th> <th>PCT</th> </tr></thead> <tbody> <tr> <td class="td-name td-first">Regular Season</td> <td>27</td> <td>3</td> <td>8</td> <td>11</td> <td>4</td> <td>0</td> <td>0</td> <td>0</td> <td>1</td> <td>21</td> <td class="td-last">14.3</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="td-name td-first">Playoffs</td> <td>14</td> <td>0</td> <td>2</td> <td>2<br> </td> <td>-2</td> <td>2</td> <td>0</td> <td>0</td> <td>0</td> <td>9</td> <td class="td-last">0.0</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p><b>Key Stat</b>: Aucoin led the Caps in <a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=20&f1=2011_s&f2=5v5&f5=WSH&f7=20-&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20#" target="_blank">points/60</a> at even strength and <a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=29&f1=2011_s&f2=5v5&f5=WSH&f7=20-&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20#" target="_blank">Corsi Rel</a> this season.</p> <p><b>Interesting Stat</b>: Aucoin's 14.3% shooting percentage was <a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/playerstats.htm?fetchKey=20122WSHSASALL&sort=shootingPctg&viewName=summary" target="_blank">fourth on the Caps</a>, trailing only <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54331/mathieu-perreault" class="sbn-auto-link">Mathieu Perreault</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/71846/marcus-johansson" class="sbn-auto-link">Marcus Johansson</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54343/nicklas-backstrom" class="sbn-auto-link">Nicklas Backstrom</a>.</p> <p><b>The Good</b>: Keith Aucoin has become the consummate journeyman, toiling in that purgatory between the AHL and NHL for over a decade. Thanks to injuries on the Caps' roster, Aucoin was able to make a semi-permanent leap up to the big club for his longest NHL stint since the 07-08 season with Carolina, and eventually translate that into his first NHL playoff action as well.</p> <p>There was a reason he stuck around for as long as he did, and it wasn't just the fact that the Caps needed a warm body at center. Aucoin was a reliable if not exceedingly flashy role player who found good chemistry among the team's third- and fourth-line players. He finished the season just two points shy of his career high of 13 (and tying his career total in assists, due in no small part to <a href="http://www.japersrink.com/2012/3/13/2869014/recap" target="_blank">a three-assist night against the Islanders</a>) while playing in 11 fewer games. He also picked up his first career playoff point with an assist on the eventual game-winner in Game 4 against his hometown <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/teams/boston-bruins" class="sbn-auto-link">Bruins</a>. His points/60 in the regular season was the highest on the team, and he was on the ice for <a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=25&s=23&f1=2011_s&f2=5v5&f5=WSH&c=0+1+3+5+4+6+7+17+18+19+20+21+22+23+24+25+26+27+28#" target="_blank">more goals-for per 60</a> than anyone else while also being on the ice for the<a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=25&s=24&f1=2011_s&f2=5v5&f5=WSH&f7=20-&c=0+1+3+5+4+6+7+17+18+19+20+21+22+23+24+25+26+27+28" target="_blank"> fourth fewest goals-against-per-60</a> among all forwards who played at least a quarter of the season.</p> <p><b>The Bad</b>: While he did lead the team in Corsi Rel and Points/60, Aucoin did it with<a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=13&f1=2011_s&f2=5v5&f5=WSH&f7=20-&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20#" target="_blank"> the easiest minutes on the team</a>, and by a healthy margin; he faced the 15th toughest competition among forwards, <a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=13&f1=2011_s&f2=5v5&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&f7=20-&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20" target="_blank">and the spread between 14 (Mathieu Perreault) and 10 (Nicklas Backstrom) was less than the spread between Perreault and Aucoin</a>. Aucoin also benefited from a <a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=34&f1=2011_s&f2=5v5&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&f7=20-&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20#" target="_blank">1043 PDO</a>, which was boosted by higher-than-average save % and shooting % (<a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=33&f1=2011_s&f2=5v5&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&f7=20-&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20#" target="_blank">.932</a> and <a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=32&f1=2011_s&f2=5v5&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&f7=20-&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20#" target="_blank">11.1%</a> respectively, both top 3 among forwards), numbers that would likely not hold up over a larger sample. It's nice that Aucoin was able to produce in the softer regular season minutes, but his scoring dried up in the playoffs (and a regression of his <a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=34&f1=2011_p&f2=5v5&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20" target="_blank">PDO to 993</a>), to the tune of <a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=20&f1=2011_p&f2=5v5&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20#" target="_blank">.46 points/60</a> at five-a-side.</p> <p>Despite Aucoin's skillset, and high scoring AHL pedigree, he was unable to become a productive member of the Caps' power play. Among forwards, he was 8th among <a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=29&f1=2011_s&f2=5v4&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&f7=20-&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20#" target="_blank">Corsi Rel </a>in the regular season, and <a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=20&f1=2011_s&f2=5v4&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&f7=20-&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20#" target="_blank">14th among points/60</a>. Given that Aucoin got the<a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=8&f1=2011_p&f2=5v4&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20#" target="_blank"> 7th most PPTOI among forwards in the playoffs</a>, you'd like to have seen him more productive. His rate stats on the PP look good (a<a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=29&f1=2011_p&f2=5v4&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20#" target="_blank"> team leading 25.7 Corsi Rel</a>, <a href="http://www.behindthenet.ca/nhl_statistics.php?ds=20&s=20&f1=2011_p&f2=5v4&f4=C+LW+RW&f5=WSH&c=0+1+3+5+8+13+14+29+30+32+33+34+45+46+63+67+17+18+19+20#" target="_blank">3.79 points/60</a>, 4th best among forwards), but that's a product of small sample. He had one power play assist in the playoffs, and that was thanks in large part to Alex Semin's shooting skill. He certainly wasn't alone in this regard, but for someone routinely getting big minutes on the power play he simply was not creating enough offense.</p> <p><b>The Vote</b>: Rate Aucoin below on a scale of 1-10 (10 being the best) based on his performance <i><b>relative to his potential and your expectations</b></i> for the season - if he had the best year you could have imagined him having, give him a 10; if he more or less played as you expected he would, give him a 5 or a 6; if he had the worst year you could have imagined him having, give him a 1.</p> <p><b>The Discussion</b>: Aucoin has paid his dues and bounced around from team to team over the last decade; with his contract set to expire on July 1, is he someone the Caps should try and hang on to, whether for another extended stint in Washington or a return to Hershey, or is it time to let him move on to his next stop? Does the playoff experience he's gained this year and hard work he's known for make up for certain glaring deficiencies as an NHLer? Finally, what will it take for him to earn a 10 rating next year?</p> <fieldset class="poll-box"> <legend>Poll</legend> <h5 class="poll-title">How do you rate Keith Aucoin's 2011-12 season?</h5> <div id="poll_container_139075_750302256"> <form action="/polls/vote/139075?container_id=poll_container_139075_750302256" method="post" onsubmit="new Ajax.Request('/polls/vote/139075?container_id=poll_container_139075_750302256', {asynchronous:true, evalScripts:true, parameters:Form.serialize(this)}); return false;"> <ul class="poll-list clearfix"> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_620021" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="620021" /></span> <label for="poll_option_620021"><span class="option">10</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_620022" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="620022" /></span> <label for="poll_option_620022"><span class="option">9</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_620023" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="620023" /></span> <label for="poll_option_620023"><span class="option">8</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_620024" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="620024" /></span> <label for="poll_option_620024"><span class="option">7</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_620025" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="620025" /></span> <label for="poll_option_620025"><span class="option">6</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_620026" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="620026" /></span> <label for="poll_option_620026"><span class="option">5</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_620027" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="620027" /></span> <label for="poll_option_620027"><span class="option">4</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_620028" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="620028" /></span> <label for="poll_option_620028"><span class="option">3</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_620029" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="620029" /></span> <label for="poll_option_620029"><span class="option">2</span></label></li> <li class="clearfix"><span class="radio"><input id="poll_option_620030" name="poll_option" type="radio" value="620030" /></span> <label for="poll_option_620030"><span class="option">1</span></label></li> </ul> <p class="poll-vote-submit"><input class="button" name="commit" type="submit" value="Vote!" /> <span> &nbsp; <span>305 votes |</span> <a href="#" onclick="new Ajax.Request('/polls/results/139075?container_id=poll_container_139075_750302256', {asynchronous:true, evalScripts:true}); return false;">Results</a></span></p> </form> </div> </fieldset> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/nSAe0m8Zntk2jvC1qbS-gKvawu4/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/nSAe0m8Zntk2jvC1qbS-gKvawu4/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/nSAe0m8Zntk2jvC1qbS-gKvawu4/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/nSAe0m8Zntk2jvC1qbS-gKvawu4/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p> http://www.japersrink.com/2012/5/15/3021091/2011-12-rink-wrap-keith-aucoin Rob Parker 2012-05-15T10:36:23Z 2012-05-15T10:36:23Z <img alt="February 28, 2012; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals head coach Dale Hunter (left) watches from behind the bench against the New York Islanders in the third period at Verizon Center. The Capitals won 3-2 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-US PRESSWIRE" height="200" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/entry_photo_images/4036222/uspw_6038098_large.jpg" width="300" /> <p><i>Y</i><i>our savory breakfast links:</i></p> <p>● <b>Dale Hunter</b> <a href="http://www.japersrink.com/2012/5/14/3019650/breaking-dale-hunter-steps-down" target="_blank">stepped down as Caps coach</a> yesterday... [<a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177652&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Caps365</a> (video), <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/nhl/capitals/story/2012-05-14/coach-dale-hunter-steps-down/54956344/1?csp=34sports&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+UsatodaycomNhl-TopStories+%28Sports+-+NHL+-+Top+Stories%29&utm_content=Google+Reader" target="_blank">AP</a>, <a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/dale-hunter-won-t-return-capitals-coach-heads-163618826.html" target="_blank">Puck Daddy</a>, <a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/7928759/washington-capitals-coach-dale-hunter-return-2012-13" target="_blank">ESPN</a> (with video), <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capitals-insider/post/dale-hunter-steps-down-as-capitals-coach/2012/05/14/gIQAf126OU_blog.html" target="_blank">WaPo</a>, <a href="http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2012/may/14/gm-hunter-wont-return-capitals-coach/" target="_blank">WashTimes</a>, <a href="http://washingtonexaminer.com/sports/loose-pucks/2012/05/dale-hunter-out-caps-coach-im-going-home/610006" target="_blank">DCEx</a>, <a href="http://www.csnwashington.com/hockey-washington-capitals/capitals-talk/Hunter-on-stepping-down-Its-a-tough-deci?blockID=707526&feedID=6357" target="_blank">CSNW</a>, <a href="http://washington.cbslocal.com/2012/05/14/dale-hunter-steps-down-from-head-coach-of-washington-capitals/" target="_blank">106.7 The Fan</a>, <a href="http://www.nbcwashington.com/blogs/capital-games/Dale-Hunter-Out-as-Capitals-Coach-151390845.html" target="_blank">NBC4 Washington</a>, <a href="http://dc.sbnation.com/washington-capitals/2012/5/14/3019719/dale-hunter-resigns-washington-capitals-coach" target="_blank">SB Nation DC</a>, <a href="http://peerlessprognosticator.blogspot.com/2012/05/home-is-where-heart-is.html" target="_blank">Peerless</a>, <a href="http://districtsportspage.com/washington-capitals-coach-dale-hunter-resigns-citing-family-concerns/7827" target="_blank">DSP</a>, <a href="http://www.puckheadsthoughts.com/2012/05/caps-coachless.html" target="_blank">Puckhead</a>, <a href="http://www.russianmachineneverbreaks.com/2012/05/14/for-dale-hunter-draw-of-family-hockey-empire-was-too-great/" target="_blank">RMNB</a>]</p> <p>○ ... which we probably should've seen coming... [<a href="http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2012/may/14/daly-this-blow-hurts-but-its-one-we-all-saw-coming/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS" target="_blank">WashTimes</a>, <a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/hockey/david-shoalts/home-is-where-dale-hunters-heart-is/article2432529/?utm_medium=Feeds:%20RSS/Atom&utm_source=Hockey&utm_content=2432529" target="_blank">Globe and Mail</a>, <a href="http://thestar.blogs.com/thespin/2012/05/no-surprise.html" target="_blank">The Star</a>]</p> <p>○ ... or not... [<a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capitals-insider/post/boswell-dale-hunter-stepping-down-seems-out-of-character/2012/05/14/gIQApmS4OU_blog.html" target="_blank">WaPo</a>]</p> <p>○ ... considering it even surprised at least one family member... [<a href="http://blogs.edmontonjournal.com/2012/05/14/dave-hunter-surprised-his-brother-dale-quit-caps/" target="_blank">Edmonton Journal</a> (but <a href="http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/juniorhockey/blog/ept_sports_juniorhockey_experts/post/dale-hunter-could-return-to-london-knights-bench-after-leaving-nhl-job?urn=juniorhockey,wp10957" target="_blank">don't worry, Mark, your job's safe</a>)]</p> <p>○ ... and spawned some theories about what really went on.... [<a href="http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/BackhandShelf/~3/e_LijSULCmo/" target="_blank">BS</a>, <a href="http://capitalsoutsider.com/2012/05/15/dale-hunter-was-not-fired/" target="_blank">Caps Outsider</a>]</p> <p>○ ... amid thoughts on what he accomplished and where it leaves the team... [<a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/learned-washington-capitals-season-122810056.html" target="_blank">Puck Daddy</a>, <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/capitals/washington-capitals-after-missing-another-opportunity-have-issues-to-settle/2012/05/14/gIQAdfrcPU_story.html" target="_blank">WaPo</a> (and <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/capitals/dale-hunters-exit-kicks-off-a-challenging-offseason-for-the-capitals/2012/05/14/gIQAx1guPU_story.html" target="_blank">again</a>), <a href="http://deadspin.com/5910103/the-capitals-are-a-team-without-a-coach-or-a-plan" target="_blank">Deadspin</a>,<a href="http://www.csnwashington.com/hockey-washington-capitals/capitals-talk/Caps-OT-Hunter-left-them-a-better-team?blockID=707796&feedID=6357" target="_blank"> CSNW</a> (video), <a href="http://washington.cbslocal.com/2012/05/14/elfin-playoff-ejection-means-the-hour-glass-is-set-for-hunter-to-make-a-decision/" target="_blank">106.7 The Fan</a>, <a href="http://www.russianmachineneverbreaks.com/2012/05/15/the-hangover-a-final-look-at-hunter-hockey/" target="_blank">RMNB</a>, <a href="http://districtsportspage.com/washington-capitals-start-over-again-as-hunter-goes-home/7834" target="_blank">DSP</a>, <a href="http://www.greatesthockeylegends.com/2012/05/dale-hunter-respecting-villain.html" target="_blank">Greatest Hockey Legends</a>, <a href="http://www.homermcfanboy.com/2012/05/14/why-the-caps-need-to-bring-back-dale-hunter/" target="_blank">HomerMcFanboy</a>, <a href="http://rockthered.net/2012-articles/may/moving-on.html" target="_blank">RtR</a>, <a href="http://fanspeak.com/washingtoncapitals/2012/05/14/where-do-the-caps-go-from-here-without-dale-hunter/" target="_blank">FanSpeak</a>]</p> <p>○ ... and, of course, plenty of wondering who might replace him... [<a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=631648" target="_blank">NHL.com</a>, <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capitals-insider/post/possible-replacements-for-dale-hunter-as-capitals-coach/2012/05/14/gIQAzbjVPU_blog.html" target="_blank">WaPo</a>, <a href="http://washington.cbslocal.com/2012/05/14/elfin-who-will-be-the-next-head-coach-for-the-washington-capitals/" target="_blank">106.7 The Fan</a>, <a href="http://www.csnwashington.com/hockey-washington-capitals/capitals-talk/Who-should-replace-Hunter-behind-the-ben?blockID=707786&feedID=6357" target="_blank">CSNW</a>, <a href="http://prohockeytalk.nbcsports.com/2012/05/14/so-who-replaces-hunter-in-washington/" target="_blank">PHT</a> (and <a href="http://prohockeytalk.nbcsports.com/2012/05/14/mckenzie-on-ron-wilson-coaching-caps-dont-hold-your-breath/" target="_blank">again</a>), <a href="http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/19044878/possible-replacements-for-dale-hunter-in-washington/rss" target="_blank">Eye on Hockey</a>, <a href="http://shatterthebackboard.com/dale-hunter-return-options-replace-capitals-head-coach?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=dale-hunter-return-options-replace-capitals-head-coach" target="_blank">The Sports Blitz</a>]</p> <p>○ ... as we bid a Caps legend a fond farewell... [<a href="http://capitalsoutsider.com/2012/05/14/thanks-for-the-memories-dale/" target="_blank">Caps Outsider</a>]</p> <p>○ ... and the players react. [<a href="http://dc.sbnation.com/washington-capitals/2012/5/14/3019994/dale-hunter-resigns-washington-capitals-alex-ovechkin-nicklas-backstrom" target="_blank">SB Nation DC</a>, <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capitals-insider/post/alex-ovechkin-on-dale-hunter-stepping-down-as-capitals-coach-its-his-decision-so-we-have-to-live-with-it/2012/05/14/gIQAOLeEPU_blog.html" target="_blank">WaPo</a>, <a href="http://washingtontimes.feedsportal.com/c/34503/f/629324/s/1f5b2b7a/l/0L0Swashingtontimes0N0Cblog0Ccapitals0Ewatch0C20A120Cmay0C140Ccaps0Ereact0Edale0Ehunters0Edeparture0C/story01.htm" target="_blank">WashTimes</a>, <a href="http://rockthered.net/2012-articles/may/the-saga-of-karl-alzner-a-bowflex-and-dale-hunters-departure.html" target="_blank">RtR </a>(?)]</p> <p>● The owner blogged... [<a href="http://www.tedstake.com/2012/05/14/thanks-dale-disappointed-but-thankful/" target="_blank">Ted's Take</a>]</p> <p>● ... <b>George McPhee</b> spoke to the assembled media about Hunter's departure, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/111542/evgeny-kuznetsov" class="sbn-auto-link">Evgeny Kuznetsov</a> and other matters... [<a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177650&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Caps365</a> (video), <a href="http://feeds.washingtonpost.com/click.phdo?i=0b2c9a47346bed08634ba3be5aa7ed1a" target="_blank">WaPo</a>, <a href="http://dc.sbnation.com/washington-capitals/2012/5/14/3019855/evgeny-kuznetsov-washington-capitals-george-mcphee-" target="_blank">SB Nation DC</a>]</p> <p>● ... and the journos had their turn with the players as well. [Caps365 video (<a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177677&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Ovechkin</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177697&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Backstrom</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177710&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Holtby</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177712&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Laich</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177707&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Green</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177701&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Carlson</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177700&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Beagle</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177706&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Chimera</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177699&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Brouwer</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177711&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Knuble</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177698&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Alzner</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177716&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Wideman</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177709&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Hendricks</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177713&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Neuvirth</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177708&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Halpern</a>, <a href="http://video.capitals.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=32&id=177715&cmpid=embed-share-video" target="_blank">Vokoun</a>), <a href="http://washington.cbslocal.com/2012/05/14/hunter-wont-be-back-as-caps-break-down-the-season/" target="_blank">106.7 The Fan DC</a>]</p> <p><span class="st"></span><i>Notes on a couple of Caps who likely won't be back and much more after the jump.</i><span class="st"></span></p> <p>○ <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54337/alex-ovechkin" class="sbn-auto-link">Alex Ovechkin</a> on jealousy. [<a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capitals-insider/post/alex-ovechkin-sometimes-you-dont-have-to-be-jealous/2012/05/14/gIQAUSXyPU_blog.html" target="_blank">WaPo</a>, <a href="http://washingtonexaminer.com/sports/loose-pucks/2012/05/ovechkin-leaders-group-have-be-together/612236" target="_blank">DCEx</a>, <a href="http://washingtontimes.feedsportal.com/c/34503/f/629324/s/1f5adf0b/l/0L0Swashingtontimes0N0Cblog0Ccapitals0Ewatch0C20A120Cmay0C140Calex0Eovechkin0Ealludes0Ejealous0Esituation0Ecaps0Elocke0C/story01.htm" target="_blank">WashTimes</a>]</p> <p>○ For <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54330/jay-beagle" class="sbn-auto-link">Jay Beagle</a>, them's the br... nah. [<a href="http://washingtontimes.feedsportal.com/c/34503/f/629318/s/1f5adbcf/l/0L0Swashingtontimes0N0Cnews0C20A120Cmay0C140Cbroken0Efoot0Esidelined0Ecapitals0Ebeagle0Efor0Elast0Etwo0C0Dutm0Isource0FRSS0IFeed0Gutm0Imedium0FRSS/story01.htm" target="_blank">WashTimes</a>, <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capitals-insider/post/jay-beagles-playoff-diary-a-broken-foot-surgery-and-saying-goodbye-for-the-summer/2012/05/14/gIQA2ZYcPU_blog.html" target="_blank">WaPo</a>]</p> <p>○ <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54850/tomas-vokoun" class="sbn-auto-link">Tomas Vokoun</a> will be one-and-done. [<a href="http://%E2%97%8F%20Alexander%20Semin%20's%20agent%20announced%20that%20his%20client%20will%20test%20free%20agency%20(and%20if%20it's%20anything%20like%20how%20he%20tested%20Henrik%20Lundqvist%20over%20the%20past%20two%20weeks%20and%20change,%20expect%20free%20agency%20to%20come%20out%20ahead)." target="_blank">WashTimes</a>, <a href="http://kingsofleonsis.com/2012/05/14/tomas-vokouns-tenure-in-washington-over-incomplete/" target="_blank">KOL</a>, <a href="http://www.russianmachineneverbreaks.com/2012/05/14/report-tomas-vokoun-to-join-the-new-lokomotiv-squad/" target="_blank">RMNB</a>, <a href="http://prohockeytalk.nbcsports.com/2012/05/14/report-vokoun-wont-be-back-with-caps-wants-to-stay-in-nhl/" target="_blank">PHT</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2012/5/14/3019975/tomas-vokoun-capitals-lokomotiv-yaroslavl" target="_blank">SB Nation DC</a>, with a "thanks for the memories" <a href="http://capitalsoutsider.com/2012/05/14/thank-you-tomas-vokoun/" target="_blank">at Caps Outsider</a>]</p> <p>● <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54348/alexander-semin" class="sbn-auto-link">Alexander Semin</a>'s agent announced that his client will test free agency (and if it's anything like how he tested <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54202/henrik-lundqvist" class="sbn-auto-link">Henrik Lundqvist</a> over the past two weeks and change, expect free agency to come out ahead). [<a href="http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/7929902/agent-says-washington-capitals-alexander-semin-headed-free-agency" target="_blank">ESPN</a>, <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capitals-insider/post/agent-unless-capitals-give-alexander-semin-more-ice-time-then-theres-no-reason-to-be-together/2012/05/14/gIQAxGhlPU_blog.html" target="_blank">WaPo</a>, <a href="http://www.csnwashington.com/hockey-washington-capitals/capitals-talk/Agent-Semin-not-returning-to-Capitals?blockID=707746&feedID=6458" target="_blank">CSNW</a> (and <a href="http://www.csnwashington.com/pages/video?PID=1iMLTB-E9klw8YQXfgxTX_7q0_tj4ZOnlJ7fqXW" target="_blank">video</a>), <a href="http://washingtonexaminer.com/sports/loose-pucks/2012/05/alex-semin-way-out-too/612776" target="_blank">DCEx</a>, with thoughts on the matter <a href="http://thehockeywriters.com/time-for-washington-to-part-ways-with-semin/" target="_blank">at THW</a>]</p> <p>● More worthwhile audio from yesterday outside of the above, including:</p> <p>○ <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54328/braden-holtby" class="sbn-auto-link">Braden Holtby</a> doing multiple hits... [<a href="http://washington.cbslocal.com/2012/05/14/lavar-and-dukes-holtby-sad-to-see-hunter-go-but-thinks-team-will-understand" target="_blank">106.7 the Fan</a>, <a href="http://www.stationcaster.com/player_skinned.php?s=65&c=426&f=533051" target="_blank">ESPN 980</a>, <a href="http://www.wtop.com/503/2863922/Holtby-reflects-on-postseason" target="_blank">WTOP</a>]</p> <p>○ ... <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54354/karl-alzner" class="sbn-auto-link">Karl Alzner</a> with Danny and Holden... [<a href="http://washington.cbslocal.com/2012/05/14/holden-and-danny-discussing-the-series-loss-with-caps-karl-arlzner-nothing-else-matters-besides-winning/" target="_blank">106.7 The Fan</a>]</p> <p>○ ... <b>Joe Beninati</b> with <i>LaVar and Dukes</i>... [<a href="http://washington.cbslocal.com/?podcast_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.podtrac.com%2Fpts%2Fredirect.mp3%2Fnyc.podcast.play.it%2Fmedia%2Fd0%2Fd0%2Fd1%2Fd0%2FdH%2FdS%2Fd6%2F10HS6_4.MP3%3Fauthtok%3D5561772424343080280_UnLQUUfBW9ZlnWm9TiO3tg2WZs&podcast_name=Segment+5+Joe+Beninati&podcast_artist=106.7+The+Fan&station_id=114&tag=pages&dcid=CBS.WASHINGTON" target="_blank">106.7 The Fan</a> (audio)]</p> <p>○ ... <b>Craig Laughlin </b>on <i>The Junkies</i>... [<a href="http://washington.cbslocal.com/?podcast_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.podtrac.com%2Fpts%2Fredirect.mp3%2Fnyc.podcast.play.it%2Fmedia%2Fd0%2Fd0%2Fd1%2Fd0%2FdH%2FdN%2FdJ%2F10HNJ_4.MP3%3Fauthtok%3D5561772424781371149_sQBMcYxqfDP1G1sde4G6gjvlM&podcast_name=Seg+11+-+Craig+Laughlin&podcast_artist=106.7+The+Fan&station_id=114&tag=pages&dcid=CBS.WASHINGTON" target="_blank">106.7 The Fan</a> (audio)]</p> <p>○ ... <b>Alan May </b>on <i>The Sports Reporters</i>... [<a href="http://www.stationcaster.com/player_skinned.php?s=65&c=426&f=533171" target="_blank">ESPN 980</a> (audio)]</p> <p>○ ... and <b>Smokin' Al Koken </b>on the <i>Mike Wise Show</i>. [<a href="http://washington.cbslocal.com/?podcast_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.podtrac.com%2Fpts%2Fredirect.mp3%2Fnyc.podcast.play.it%2Fmedia%2Fd0%2Fd0%2Fd1%2Fd0%2FdH%2FdQ%2FdK%2F10HQK_3.MP3%3Fauthtok%3D5561772425287915970_GAd6R5gwrhqGny14XT2vI0Kcs&podcast_name=Seg+05-+Al+Koken+joins+Mike+and+CJ&podcast_artist=106.7+The+Fan&station_id=114&tag=pages&dcid=CBS.WASHINGTON" target="_blank">106.7 The Fan</a> (audio)]</p> <p>● If there's one takeaway from the playoffs, it's that Holtby belongs in the NHL. [<a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/writers/pablo_torre/05/13/braden.holtby/index.html" target="_blank">SI</a>]</p> <p>● A look back at Alzner's season, by the tens (love these). [<a href="http://peerlessprognosticator.blogspot.com/2012/05/2011-2012-by-tens-defensemen-karl.html" target="_blank">Peerless</a>]</p> <p>● Da Bog does digits. [<a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dc-sports-bog/post/caps-playoff-exit-by-the-numbers/2012/05/14/gIQANjVBPU_blog.html?wprss=rss_dc-sports-bog" target="_blank">DC Sports Bog</a>]</p> <p>● A fantasy-focused look ahead. [<a href="http://www.thehockeynews.com/articles/47290-Offseason-report-Jets-Capitals.html" target="_blank">THN</a>]</p> <p>● One down, one to go? [<a href="http://wusa9.com/sports/article/205333/25/Caps-Owner-Ted-Leonsis-Is-In-A-Sticky-Situation" target="_blank">WUSA9</a>]</p> <p>● Handing out hometown awards. [<a href="http://rockthered.net/2012-articles/may/2011-12-capitals-awards-ceremony-art-ross-and-rocket-richard-trophies.html" target="_blank">RtR</a>, <a href="http://rockthered.net/2012-articles/may/2011-12-capitals-awards-ceremony-plusminus-and-green-jacket-award.html" target="_blank">RtR</a>]</p> <p>● The Puck Daddy eulogy for the 2011-12 Caps is up. [<a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/eulogy-remembering-2011-12-washington-capitals-204144408.html" target="_blank">Puck Daddy</a>]</p> <p>● A look at the prospect pool. [<a href="http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/14201/washington_capitals_own_topheavy_prospect_pool/" target="_blank">HF</a>]</p> <p>● Finally, thanks to everyone who made mine <a href="https://www.beardathon.com/capitals/JapersRink/profile.aspx" target="_blank">a $1,500-plus beard</a> and an even bigger thanks to everyone who has read and/or participated on the site over the past year - you guys make it all worthwhile.</p> <p><a href="http://www.facebook.com/JapersRinkFanPage" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/images/icons/social/facebook_16.ve687b73.png" alt="Facebook_16"></a> <a href="http://www.twitter.com/JapersRink" target="_blank"><img src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/images/icons/social/twitter_16.ve687b73.png" alt="Twitter_16"></a></p> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/RnNTumfi1Q_CazBB5R0v0HZCRbQ/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/RnNTumfi1Q_CazBB5R0v0HZCRbQ/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/RnNTumfi1Q_CazBB5R0v0HZCRbQ/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/RnNTumfi1Q_CazBB5R0v0HZCRbQ/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p> http://www.japersrink.com/2012/5/15/3020595/tuesday-caps-clips J.P. 2012-05-15T10:20:07Z 2012-05-15T10:20:07Z <h2><a href="http://www.japersrink.com/2012/5/15/3021432/tuesday-off-topic-open-thread">Tuesday Off-Topic Open&nbsp;Thread</a></h2> <blockquote class="chat"> </blockquote> <div class="source"><p><a href=""></a></p></div> <p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/6ayfIgEG0YBdV3joABVbRPZI8HI/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/6ayfIgEG0YBdV3joABVbRPZI8HI/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/> <a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/6ayfIgEG0YBdV3joABVbRPZI8HI/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~a/6ayfIgEG0YBdV3joABVbRPZI8HI/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p> http://www.japersrink.com/2012/5/15/3021432/tuesday-off-topic-open-thread J.P.