For the primary time since January 2nd, 2024, the Washington Capitals discover themselves in a playoff spot within the Japanese Convention. The Capitals are additionally inside one level behind the Philadelphia Flyers for third within the Metro Division.
The Capitals moved some gamers out by the deadline, as they did final 12 months, however Washington is chugging alongside and enjoying regular hockey. Whereas their aim differential stinks, Washington is enjoying nicely on the proper time.
The Detroit Crimson Wings Leaving Door Extensive Open In Japanese Convention
As documented on NHLRumors.com, the Detroit Crimson Wings have left the door open for groups to go them, because of dropping eight of their previous 9 video games. The Buffalo Sabres are in hanging distance as nicely. However it’s the Capitals who management their very own future.
As TSN Hockey Analyst Martin Biron acknowledged on SportsCenter with Jay Onrait, the Washington Capitals are within the driver’s seat to make the playoffs within the Japanese Convention.
Jay Onrait: “Let’s speak in regards to the East. Obtained the Crimson Wings within the second wildcard spot. They lose to Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh is that is wonderful, they’re 5 factors again of Detroit. Now, the Isles and Devils are within the hunt. They each misplaced on Sunday. Who do you belief any of those groups to possibly put it collectively, Marty, and make a run within the Japanese Convention?
Martin Biron: “I’m having a tough time trusting groups which might be within the playoffs within the wildcard proper now. Is Tampa gonna keep there? They’ve been wonderful. However let’s take away Tampa. Let’s say they’re in. Is Detroit, the New York Islanders, each of these groups had a six-game successful streak.
The Islanders have now misplaced 4 in a row. Devils are one and eight of their final 9. Prefer it must be clear, it shouldn’t be anyone else combating for a wildcard spot. It must be between Detroit and the New York Islanders.
And now the stunning group, the group that whenever you have a look at factors proportion are literally in, is the Washington Capitals. Washington Capitals by .001 are literally the group are in proper now. They’re not exhibiting (graph on the display), however they’ve video games in hand.
2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs: High Eight Would possibly Be Set within the West
I imply, Ovechkin had a horrible begin to the season. They’ve a brand new coach, proper? Who’s the goaltender, Darcy Kuemper? No, it’s Charlie Lindgren, and he’s having an important 12 months. Ovie is getting shut to twenty targets (scored his twentieth Monday evening). It’s very stunning that the Washington Capitals, for my part, are the group to chase proper now.
It’s not the New York Islanders. It’s not the Detroit Crimson Wings. Who needs it? I’m asking them who needs New Jersey Would you like it? Pittsburgh, Buffalo who needs it? Seems to be like Washington needs it a little bit bit extra proper now.”
The Washington Capitals play a number of of those groups down the season’s stretch. The ultimate wild card spot is of their palms, too. However do they need it? That’s the true query.
