With 24 video games left within the common season, the Washington Capitals are 28-24-6 and one level exterior the playoff image. Missing the postseason for the primary time since 2014 is a risk.
The Capitals have struggled on account of a mixture of accidents and an ageing core. However there’s nonetheless time to rebound, particularly as soon as star winger Alex Ovechkin returns.
Ovechkin has not performed since Feb. 12, as he traveled again to Russia just lately after the dying of his father. His eventual return will present a lift, as will that of defenseman John Carlson, who has been out since December with a face damage. Carlson’s return will take a bit longer, however he continues to make progress.
Different gamers have just lately returned from lengthy stretches on the shelf. Nicklas Backstrom, the longtime Robin to Ovechkin’s Batman, has solely performed in 15 video games. Tom Wilson, who offers the staff with toughness, has solely performed in 9.
The Capitals haven’t been at full energy all season. Due to that, they do not have constant, high-volume scorers — an issue exacerbated with out Ovechkin, who leads the staff with 32 targets. Marcus Johansson is second with solely 13.
If one or two gamers step up frequently, it will do wonders. The commerce deadline is March 3, so maybe the Capitals can discover a scorer by then to assist open the offense.
Many followers are dissatisfied with the Capitals, who’re accustomed to success in latest seasons. Regardless of the tumult, nevertheless, Washington stays within the playoff hunt.
