1. The Capitals came out charging in the period. Shots were 7-3 in favor of the Caps early in the first period. Five of the shots were considered high danger chances. It could have easily been a quick two or three goal lead had it not been for Raanta’s stellar play. Coyotes weathered the storm and finished the period strong with a 1-goal lead and a 13-12 shot advantage.
2. Breakaway problems – The Capitals gave up at least three or four breakaways this game. The only one Arizona converted was by Michael Grabner. Couldn’t find any stats but apparently, he is known for his breakaway conversions.
3. Coyotes PK and Defensive Zone 5v5 – I thought the Coyotes played extremely well when they were in their own end last night. They used an aggressive forecheck and forced the Capitals to make quick decisions. This ultimately disrupted any flow of offense and they really couldn’t set up anything like they normally do. You will typically see teams do this to the Caps in the playoffs. It works.
4. Second Period Start – The Coyotes got two quick goals to start the second period to go up 3-0. One play went to video review and was correctly overturned to a good goal. Saw the twitter jokes online but Samsonov should really considering switching to a glove that isn’t so see-through!
5. Kuznetsov scored two goals last night extending the franchise record for games with a multi-goal scorer to nine games.
6. This was the second time this season the Capitals scored with an extra man in the final minutes of a game. Over the years, they have consistently been one of the better teams at 6 on 5 conversions.
7. This was the 5th game this season the Capitals erased a 2-goal deficit. This is the only game that resulted in a loss. They lead the NHL with only one multi-goal loss.
8. Oshie had a pretty rough game but made up for it with the game tying and temporary game winning goals. He missed his shootout attempt which is very rare. His career shootout stats are 43/82 (52.4%) which is 3rd best in the league among active players.
9. The Vrana-Kuznetsov-Wilson remains sizzling hot. They have put up 12 goals and 13 assists the last five games.
10. Arizona won this game with superior goaltending and opportunistic scoring. Credit the Caps for battling back and earning a point which they really had no business getting. The win streak may have ended at six but the point streak stays alive! 12 straight games with a point (10-0-2).
Next Game: Wednesday 11/13 @ Philadelphia Flyers
Thanks for reading!
By Brian S.
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