11-04-2009, 09:23 PM
|
#5
|
Pro
|
Re: Rockin' The Red! - A Washington Capitals Franchise (NHL 10)
By Owen Ridley
The 2008-2009 season for the Washington Capitals was a big step in the right direction. Finishing the season as the Southeast Division champions with a 50-24-8 record. Lead by Alexander Ovechkin and his MVP winning season the Capitals went into the playoffs as the second seed in the Eastern Conference. Two rounds later in the Semi-Finals their season came crashing down with a game seven lose to the Pittsburgh Penguins.
That was then, this is now. A new season, a season of high expectations and with those expectations comes growing pressure. Pressure to succeed, pressure to go farther than before and finish what was started last year. “I’m not interested in more trophies, awards or statistics,” Ovechkin says, “I’m only interested in one thing this season and that’s the Stanley cup!”
No one has felt this pressure more than owner Ted Leonsis and general manager George McPhee. Following the season the Capitals entered the 2009 NHL Entry Draft with several draft picks including the 24th overall in the 1st round. Both owner and GM decided to use that pick on a speedy right winger from Michigan State University, P.J. Tait. “He fell right into our laps,” McPhee smiled, “it was a really good value pick for us.
After the draft is when things really heated up. During free agency rumors were surrounding Viktor Kozlov and Sergei Fedorov. Were they staying or going? Numerous reports had them staying with the Caps. While others signaled that they would be signing over seas. Finally, after the dust settled, both Fedorov and Kozlov were headed back over the Atlantic Ocean. “It was a crazy couple of weeks for us,” owner Ted Leonsis remarked, “we wish them both the best!” Others of note that will not be returning to the Capitals for the 2009 season are, Donald Brashear(New York Rangers) and Brent Johnson(Pittsburgh Penguins.) Losing Fedorov was a big blow to Washington. Now they needed someone to fill the center position on their second line, enter Brendan Morrison. Known for his play making ability, Morrison has centered some very talented wingers in his career. “I’m excited to be here and to be playing with so much talent, it’s going to be an incredible season,” Morrison said. Time will tell if Brendan is the answer for the Caps second line void at center.
Last but not least was the signing of Mike Knuble. Quite possibly the smartest move by GM McPhee. Knuble brings power, grit and a knack for scoring the always important garbage goal. “Some players just don’t like doing the dirty work,” Knuble laughed, “I don’t mind it at all, in fact I’ve made a career out of it.”
That brings us to the present: training camp. Camp opened recently with preseason games quickly approaching. We’ll bring you full coverage and a break down of all the positions and players in the next few days. Stay tuned!
|
|
|