Game #9
Caps (4-2-2, 10 points) at Atlanta Thrashers (4-1-1, 9 points)
Believe it or not, first place in the Southeast Division is on the line tonight when the Caps play in Atlanta. Okay – that means absolutely nothing in October. But give credit to the Thrashers, who have been better than expected so far. The big reason? Special teams. Atlanta has only played six games, but it has the NHL’s best power play with six goals in 20 attempts (30 percent). It also ranks fourth in the NHL on the penalty kill, allowing just three power-play goals in 25 chances (88 percent).
Caps will have to start this brief road trip without forward Alexander Semin, who did not accompany the team to Atlanta. He has been battling an illness (undisclosed) and an injury (undisclosed). At the morning skate at Philips Arena in Atlanta, Caps coach Bruce Boudreau again wasn’t sure how to describe Semin’s absence when he addressed reporters.
“It’s a combination platter. He was sick and then sore so…I don’t know.”
Just Sasha being Sasha, I guess. Well, Boudreau did say Semin – second on the team with six goals – could still meet the team on Long Island when it plays the New York Islanders on Saturday night. Both winger Alexandre Giroux and center Keith Aucoin have been recalled from AHL Hershey to fill in. Forward Boyd Gordon (back) is out as is defenseman John Erskine (bruised hand). Check back during the game tonight for updates between periods. Will also have another post this afternoon.
