Let’s not sugarcoat this one: The New York Rangers are offensively challenged, especially when Ryan Callahan doesn’t play. So while it’s good that the Capitals’ defense — and goalie Michal Neuvirth in particular — had a standout series, let’s not anoint them as Stanley Cup favorites just yet.
That’s one view.
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But this is another: The Capitals, after a playoff disaster in 2010 and a disappointing one the previous season, needed a strong opening to the postseason. Enter the Rangers.
Playoff hockey — playoffs in any sport — is about matchups. The Caps had a goalie playing his first postseason. The last thing Neuvirth needed was to be bombarded by a strong offensive team right away. As the Caps move forward, they will face better offenses. Hard to find any that are worse.
And Neuvirth will be called upon to steal a game at some point, making plays when the defense breaks down. That’s something he typically didn’t need to do vs. New York. But confidence is fragile for a goalie in the playoffs. Neuvirth, with a strong opening series, should have enough that he can carry a game when needed.
Still, keep in mind that the Capitals’ defense wasn’t the issue last postseason. Their power play was the primary culprit.
But what was nice is that the workmanlike Rangers can be difficult opponents for talented teams under pressure, and the Caps matched their effort and exceeded their talent. In the end, they did what they were supposed to do. After the past couple years, that’s a good start.
