Boston Bruins 4, Caps 3 (Shootout)
So the regular season is finished and the Caps – just like thier fans – are waiting to find out who they will play in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. Washington finished the season with 313 goals – the most in the NHL since the Pittsburgh Penguins scored 362 in 1995-96. Will have more on that achievement in a later post. Not much to say about this particular game since neither team had much to play for. The Tim Thomas-Jason Chimera scuffle was entertaining – though Chimera was angry afterwards and shook off Thomas’ comment that he may have “overreacted.” Semyon Varlamov looked good in goal with 35 saves on 38 shots. Not good enough to get a playoff start right off the bat, I’m guessing. Bruce Boudreau is still playing his cards close to the vest on that one. But needless to say – a decision has been made. He’s just not sharing. But the Caps at least have to feel like Varlamov is playing himself into a legitimate option in the playoffs. I’ll have more once we figure out who the Caps’ opponent will be in a few hours. Remember, there is still the goal scoring race to watch as Sidney Crosby and Pittsburgh play the New York Islanders tonight. Alex Ovechkin is one ahead of Crosby at 50-49. Will that lead hold? Stay tuned.
Caps Notes
» Washington finished with the best home record in the NHL – 30-5-6 – and set the team record for home points (65). The 30 wins tied a team record, as well. The Caps also set a single-season attendance record (749,357) with their 48th regular-season sellout in a row.
» Alex Semin and Alex Ovechkin combined for 90 goals – the most by any two teammates in the NHL. Semin’s goal on Sunday against the Bruins was his 40th of the year and his 300th career point.
