The San Jose Sharks have started their season off in stunning fashion, putting together back-to-back shutout wins which is a first in team history. Banking off a goalie tag-team, both Anti Niemi and Alex Stalock put together quality games against both the Los Angeles Kings and the Winnipeg Jets. Now they look to keep up the momentum as they hit the road for a face off against the Washington Capitols.
Both goalies will have their hands full as Alex Ovechkin aims to pick up where he left off last season which was leading the league in goals scored. The captain had 51 goals last season and was the lone bright spot in the Capitols' down season which resulted in the firing of coaches. Now under the new eye of Barry Trotz, the Capitols are working to become more defensive minded. Last season they gave up 2.79 goals per game. This season is a different story as they have only allowed one non-shootout goal. The team is confident with the improved defense and the offense of Ovechkin, they can be a much more balanced unit.
In the net, Braden Holtby will hold off the Sharks' scoring attack. He has started the first two games in Washington and done well as they team begins a three-game homestand. He has experience facing the Sharks before, making 34 saves in a win last March. Considering San Jose's long-time success over the Capitols, the team is hoping he can do it again.
Despite the winning, San Jose is not satisfied with their level of play so far this season. Struggling on the power play, Patrick Marleau has the team's only pp goal in 12 chances. He has the best record against Washington with eight goals and 10 assists in 21 games against the Eastern Conference powerhouse.
