2011-12 Stanley Cup Prediction: The Washington Capitals
Since the key addition of Tomas Vokoun this off-season, the Capitals have a lot of people, including me, believing that this is the year that Ovi and his mates will finally get to lift the Stanley Cup. Goaltending has been the one big flaw that Washington has had the past few years. By signing Vokoun to a one year deal worth 1.5 million, I think they now have all the pieces to win hockey's ultimate prize. Vokoun has the highest save percentage since the lockout among NHL goaltenders at .922. In my opinion, he is easily the most underrated goaltender in hockey. Over his career he has played on some pretty bad teams and competing for a cup is surely going to be a different experience for him.
"He’s been on teams with no chance to win for a very long time," Vokoun's agent, Michael Deutsch, said. "The opportunity to compete for a Stanley Cup means a great deal to him."
Washington not only got themselves a reliable goaltender this off-season, but they also signed winger Troy Brouwer and defenseman Roman Hamrlik each to two year deals. Brouwer, who has a very high upside, will likely find himself on one of Washington's top two lines in 2011-12. The 26 year old had 36 points last season with the Hawks.
Meanwhile, the former all-star defenseman Roman Hamrlik will support youngsters Karl Alzner and John Carlson at the blue-line. The 37 year old veteran spent the last four seasons in Montreal and averaged about 30 points each season during that time period.
2010-11 was a bad season for many Washington stars. Alex Ovechkin potted only 32 goals which was a career low for him. Alex Semin battled injuries and had 54 points. Nicklas Backstrom finished with 65 points, 36 less than what he had in his previous campaign. Mike Green only played 49 games and had 24 points. This all resulted in another early playoff exit to the Bolts. This season they will be looking to bounce back and lead the Caps to their first ever Stanley Cup. I think they will get the job done.
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