Puck 'N Hockey

The Capitals looked much better against the St. Louis Blues even though they lost 4-3 after a shootout.  However, there were still shades of the defensive zone problems that have plagued the Capitals for the past few games.

Jeff Roberson/AP Photo

Overall, the Caps seemed to recommit themselves to team defense.  Forwards seemed to be getting back to cover up trailing Blues skaters entering the zone.  I thought in general, the Caps’ defensemen were playing smarter than in recent weeks.  Alexander Semin seemed determined to head into the the Olympic break on a hot streak.  Hopefully, that continues after the Olympian returns from Vancouver.

The one thing I did notice, especially towards the end of the game, was a lack of defensive zone puck pursuit.  Many loose pucks were not gobbled up by Caps defenders.  The Blues received scoring opportunities from simply out working the Capitals in their end.  Heading into the stretch towards the playoffs, the Caps need to tighten up defensively.  I would accept a drop in goal production if it meant less scoring opportunities for the opposition.

These type of problems are the details that will help propel a team towards the playoffs and helps win championships.