Jesse in Toronto, Ontario asks…
After losing in the first round, should the Washington Capitals make wholesale changes?
Answer: Absolutely not
The Washington Capitals did not play poorly in the first round. The club simply was faced with a goaltender who performed ridiculously well.
Even against the league’s best teams, a streaking goalie can single-handedly win a series. Jaroslav Halak did just that for the Montreal Canadiens.
Of course, the Habs needed to score goals. A net minder, technically, cannot be victorious without a modicum of support from his teammates. However, most rosters in the National Hockey League could have beaten the Caps with Halak in net.
Washington had a fantastic, 121-point season. Could general manager George McPhee improve his lineup in some areas? Certainly. But, firing the coach or altering the nucleus of such a promising group would be fatuous.
Though supporters of the Capitals may detest the suggestion to preserve the status quo, the notion is rooted in objectivity…not emotion.
Relax, people.
