The second period was a little more back-and-forth instead of one team dominating for long stretches like the first period. Here’s a few quick thoughts:
* Another strong period for Semyon Varlamov. He made two great saves going post-to-post on one-timers.
SEE RELATED:
* Caps have taken three penalties and haven’t drawn any. Let’s hope there isn’t a post-game rant about officiating just yet.
* It’s only two periods, but it would be hard to say the two kids on defense look more ready to help the Caps right now than Tyler Sloan. Both John Carlson and Karl Alzner have done some good things, and Carlson has sown he isn’t afraid to try and chip in offensively, but Sloan has been very steady. Might not be a stretch to say he’s been the most mistake-free guy on the blue line to this point.
* Nicklas Backstrom is ready to go.
* Mike Knuble is going to forecheck and block some shots.
