I don't know why the OP made that original comment but from my perspective it seems beyond silly to put the last few kicks at the can this core has at a cup on the backs of two goaltenders who have played less than 40 NHL games.
I dont disagree with that. At the same time over the last 2 years knowing Holtby was coming to an end, I saw no conversation about getting a legit cup quality veteran goalie. It was entirely Samsonov and a back up or Samsonov and a 1B which means a Halak like journeyman.
My view is that MacLellan is hoping that Sammy can be a legit stud after 2 seasons of starting and that between now and then the Caps are capable of winning with respectable play in net. Carolina seems to think they can win with Mrazek. I would take Sammy over Mrazek all day. Vanecek strikes me as a goalie that just provides wins.
I dont think there was any plan that Lundqvist would lead them to a cup. I thought the hope there was that if Samsonov stubbed his toe, Hank could cover for him for a bit or they needed one big game in the playoffs, Hank could do it.
The Caps win a cup on their veteran coach, veteran defense corp, and the support for a young goalie that players like Backstrom and Oshie and Willy and Ov provide. Scoring a goal to pick up a mistake from a kid.
When it comes down to it, the Caps dont have a stud goalie but they have Chara which sets a tone