Capitals Flyers Preview: March 14, 2019
A week after a strong performance in Philadelphia, the Washington Capitals return to Wells Fargo Arena to face the Philadelphia Flyers once more. Despite losing to Pittsburgh last night
At 41-22-7, the Capitals are still two points ahead of the New York Islanders for first in the division. Playoffs look likely, though if they want to improve their seeding, they need to keep winning. After blowing a 2-0 lead in Pittsburgh on Tuesday, the Caps cannot afford any more mistakes. Alex Ovechkin’s 1,200 point career was a solid showing for him, but it will need to be a team effort to keep them in the running.Though the unsung hero of the Caps may just be Jakub Vrana, who has scored twenty goals this season including two against the Penguins. If the Capitals are to win tonight, it will be on defense. Vrana has stepped up in the penalty kill, which has helped the Caps remain in the Top 10 for all teams.
Philadelphia remains in desperation mode. They currently sit sixth in the Metro Division, with a record of 34-27-8, five points behind the Columbus Blue Jackets for the last wild card. Goaltender Carter Hart returns to the net for Philly. The rookie goalie suffered an ankle injury earlier this season, but the mere fact he has to be in net at all is a sign of confidence as wins become more and more important down the stretch.
Game time is 7:30 p.m. The Capitals have won both games against the Flyers this season, both games by a score of 5-3. One was achieved at home, the other in Philadelphia. But Braden Holtby in net tonight looks to keep that record intact.
