Offense Struggles in Caps 3-2 Overtime Loss to Pens

The Caps have played reasonably well so far this year against the Penguins but have earned a record of 1-1-2. They have earned points in all but one game against them this year and matched up again with Pittsburgh Tuesday night. Overall, the Capitals played decent, but not good enough to earn the victory, falling 3-2 in overtime.

Pittsburgh dominated in the shot department outshooting the Capitals 37-22. The Penguins also dominated in the face-off circle winning 55% of the draws. It seems that when the Capitals do not win face-offs, they do not win games. The Capitals need to win more face-offs on a nightly basis to be able to close out these close games. You simply cannot win games if you cannot shoot the puck and you cannot shoot the puck if you do not win the face-offs to be able to control the puck.

Although the Capitals lost and it is another frustrating defeat at the hands of the pens, not all hope should be lost. They played physical, which kept them in the game, outhitting Pittsburgh 31-15. Another bright spot is once again Vitek Vanecek. He saved 34 out of 37 shots for a save percentage of .919. Connor Sheary scored again tonight and has been playing really well as of late. He has 6 goals in 8 career games against his former team and Richard Panik also recorded a goal, his second of the year.

The Capitals are currently sitting at second place in the Eastern division with 22 points.

Bruins 24 – GP 16

Caps 22 – GP 18

PIT 21 – GP 17

NYI 21 – GP 18

PHI 19 – GP 15

Caps fans, if you are panicking, slow your roll as there is no need for that right now. This team has been playing well for most of this season. Yes, it is frustrating to see them lose another overtime game this year, but things will turn around. They are a few simple fixes away from being a huge threat to make a playoff push and win another cup.

The Caps will be back in action again Thursday night facing the Penguins once more at Capital One Arena.