The 2013 season of the Washington Capitals is rolling along as usual as the team sits second behind the Pittsburgh Penguins in the Metropolitan Division by 13 points. The New York Rangers currently sit in fourth as they hope to get a much needed win against their Eastern Conference rivals who are coming off a nine-game homestand.
The Rangers are surrounded by goalie controversy. Henrik Lundqvist just recently signed a monster contract extension that cemented him the franchise goalie for the team. However, Cam Talbot is outshining the veteran and could keep the reigning Vezina Trophy winner on the bench. New York won back-to-back games with Talbot, but Lundqvist is the fan-favorite and has the impressive resume that might speaker louder than stats.
Since signing his extension Dec. 4, Lundqvist is 2-4-2 with a 3/41 goals-against average. He gave up four goals on 19 shots against the New York Islanders while Talbot assisted in the wins against Minnesota and Toronto. In two games, he racked up 49 saves that helped New York finish off a 3-4-2 homestand. Lundqvist has the better resume against the Capitals going 19-14-4 in his career, including a 5-0 shutout in Game 7 of last season's playoffs.
Meanwhile, Washington continues to look their same dominant self. Alex Ovechkin has netted 30 goals which leads the NHL this season. However, he is in a small drought, having not scored in 37 shots over eight games against the Rangers. The New York defense has kept the star veteran in check.
Both teams have split the first two games against one another this season. Injuries should not play a large factor in this matchup as both squads have almost everyone healthy.
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