Panthers prowl on Caps in overtime

Marty Reasoner and Michal Neuvirth watch a deflected shot trickle into the net during the first period of the Capitals' 4-3 overtime loss to the Panthers.

The Caps came into tonight’s game with a lot of confidence stemming from a 3-2 victory Saturday against these same Panthers.  As the game began, the Capitals quickly began to look like their regular selves in the first period.  Throughout the season the Caps have dug themselves holes that have made winning and getting into any kind of rhythm very difficult. 

In the first period the Capitals surrendered two goals, one of which resulted from a Florida two-man advantage.  In the same series of plays, Mike Knuble was hit with an interference penalty, which was soon followed by a Nicklas Backstrom boarding call.  The Panthers then capitalized when Mike Santorelli scored on a rebound from a Stephen Weiss shot.

Another score was added when Marty Reasoner deflected a Bryan McCabe shot.  The score at the end of the first could have easily been 4-0 or 5-0, but the game was kept within reasonable reach of a comeback by Michal Neuvirth’s outstanding saves.

In the second period the Panthers once again capitalized on a two-man advantage with Jason Chimera and John Carlson in the sin bin. The Panthers goal was again created off a Stephen Weiss shot which was rebounded and scored by David Booth. 

Finally at the 10:10 mark in the second Marcus Johansson tallied one for the Caps on a beautiful give and go between he and Brooks Laich.  Shortly after, Alexander Ovechkin rifled a pass to Knuble, who then top shelved a shot past goaltender Tomas Vokoun. 

On the upside, going into the third period the Caps had trimmed their deficit to one goal, but they were also 0-5 on power plays.

As the third period started the Capitals hopes were high to continue their comeback. After 7:12 into the third period, Marcus Johansson struck again on a tip in.  The chance was created from a backhand shot by teammate Matt Hendricks, from behind the net. 

At the 12:31 mark in the third the Caps spoiled their sixth and what would be their final power play.

As regulation came to an end the score read 3-3.  Shortly into overtime All- Star defenseman Mike Green was called for hooking.  Unfortunately this penalty would be the death of the Caps and at the 2:51 mark in overtime.

Dennis Wideman shattered the Caps hope at getting three points with a top-shelf wrister. 

Overall it was a very disappointing performance, mainly because of the 0-6 mark on the power plays.  Also the Caps continue to bury themselves with many costly mistakes in the first period.  Stay tuned for tomorrow night’s game at 7 p.m. against division rival Tampa Bay.

Player of the Game: Marcus Johansson (2 goals)

Stat of the Game: 0 for 6 on PP

Hit of the Game: Ovi on Weaver (3rd period)

Unsung Hero: Mike Knuble