Rough night in Toronto

Unfortunately, the Capitals weren't able to overcome their continuing roster issues, losing to the Maple Leafs 3-0. Yet again they failed to produce on the power play, going 0-5 with the man advantage. I understand that we're using smoke and mirrors to just field a team at this point, but something has got to be done to address the Caps problems with special teams before the start of the year.

Hire a consultant, hire an assistant that specializes in teaching the power play, but do something. The team has looked terrible all year when they go a man up. Most of the power play goals they score are a result of individual plays by the Alexes. If you can't knock in a couple cheapies, you won't win many games (especially not in the "new" NHL where you're guaranteed 4-5 opportunities a game).

On the bright side, it was good to see Fred Cassivi look solid in an uber-rare start. He didn't get the win, but did impress with his shot stopping ability and his collected demeanor in net. Not to knock Johnson, but I'd like to see Freddie get a couple more starts before the close of the season. The guy has worked his butt off to get to the NHL level, and it's nice to see him get some playing time. Maybe we can spring to get him some properly colored pads, too.

From a drafting perspective, tonight's loss brought the Caps within 1 point of the 4th overall pick, and within 3 of the third pick. Despite the relatively low depth of talent in the draft, a 3 or 4 pick overall should be good trade fodder after the season for a team looking to pick up some young talent.