Arch-rivalry part 1: Capitals on the Rise

So here's the event that happens only four times a year. Hopefully more than that, but it's only October. The Penguins have owned the Caps after the lockout, going 10-1-1 in 12 games (10-1-0 without King Crosby). Ovechkin is the best goal scorer in the game. Crosby is the best player in the game. Malkin is not far off, but not nearly as clutch.

Not blog style this time, but things bear mentioning early in the 1st. Crosby starts things off with a bang by out-Ovechkining Ovechkin. The next 10 minutes is hardcore defensive battle.

The Caps' power play is a thing of beauty. Semin is a hilarious name. The Pens' PK is even better.

Go-Go scores on a silly PP. The Pens control the puck on their man-up for the first time this season (at least it felt like it). After a good pass by Bing, Malkin fires it in and Goligoski gets a great chance. He bobbles, shoots once he gets control and Theodore demonstrates why he shouldn't be a starter. 1-0 PENGUINS!

Another thing of note is that Zigomanis might be the best pickup in recent Penguins history. They got him from the Coyotes for "future considerations" aka a sammich.

The Caps look really good, and will most likely win their division once the Canes pull their annual choke job. However, two things will keep them out of the SCF barring a lot of luck:

1. Jose Theodore. You can take Olie the Goalie out of Washington, but you can't... take the spirit of Olie the Goalie out of Washington. Hm.

2. Penalties. I know you're all fired up and stuff, but play smarter. Your defense is not exactly stellar and your goaltenders are atrocious. UPDATE: As I typed this, Malkin scored a PP goal. 2-0 PENGUINS!

3. Fewer games vs. Southeast opponents. That's at least 4 fewer wins this year, meaning crucial jockeying for position in the East. They absolutely have to win the division to get home ice at any point.

Getting time to go to practice. Bing (Crosby for you Pensblog virgins) has 2 A before the end of the first, and the Caps just got the gayest penalty (Too Many Men). Malkin has 1 G and 1 A, meaning the dry spell is over for both.

Earlier today I predicted 5-3, decided by an empty netter, in favor of the home team (PIT). I stand by this prediction even with a 2-0 lead. GO PENS, I'm out to buy beer. I mean play water polo >_>

- Matt