Under Dale Hunter, the Washington Capitals are in the business of winning one-goal hockey games. They have been completely transformed from the high-flying, exciting, offensive-oriented style of play under Bruce Boudreau to the conservative, grinding, defense-first mantra of Hunter and Jim Johnson. So far, it’s worked.
The Caps escaped the first round, winning the closest series in NHL history (every game decided by one goal) and are tied with the New York Rangers at one game each heading back to D.C. for two games at Verizon Center. Obviously, Hunter’s goal is to win the Stanley Cup. He doesn’t care how he does it. He, and his coaching staff, have decided that the best way to win is to keep the games close and low scoring. Every minute of a tie game is victory. But are the methods they are employing good for the team, organization, and the players? [Read more…]