Quoting: krakowitz
Your division comment doesn't mean squat since the divisions are going to be realigned for this season. And I didn't realize that having a guy who scored 18 points in 30 games on the third/fourth line (Panik), a 3C on pace for 47 points (Eller) and an elite penalty killer scoring at a 35 point pace (Hagelin) was considered bad depth. That's a third line with every guy capable of putting up a point every other game, which is definitely more than most third lines give you. Vrana would've scored 30 in a full season and I believe only one of those was on the power play. Yeah sure some guys are making a bit too much for a bit too long, but the contracts don't matter once we're on the ice. If they did matter, your Islanders would be screwed since you can't even afford your only dynamic player. You're clearly looking at this with the most negative viewpoint possible. Be objective and recognize the fact that this is a team still capable of doing some damage.
Quoting: Islesforthecup
Didnt see any damage done in august. 8 goals in 5 games from the second highest scoring team in the reg season. Not saying its likely for them to miss the playoffs but dont expect them to still be alive in the second round. As for vrana i dont watch every caps game but doesnt he play on the 2nd line. Dont know for sure just thought thats how it was. As for barzal just because we didnt sign him yet doesnt mean we cant afford him. We also want to put out a team that could go far not bow out after 5 games.
I think the Caps still have some gas left in the tank. It’s not over yet for them.
-They have depth as mentioned above.
-They have experience.
-If everything clicks then they will pose a problem in the playoffs.
-The RTP failure could be a one off. Not the only team who didn’t perform. Heck the Blues lost to the Canucks.
-Thats why they play the games.
-I fully expect Washington to be competitive.
-In 1-2 years from now I think their window will be sealed closed and a rebuild will ensue.