Caps are fourth in the division in terms of points % – only second because they’ve played one more game than Pittsburgh, and three more than Philly. The race for 2-3-4-5 in the division is close, so no need to panic at this juncture. But as a team, they rarely look like they’re gelling.
The fact that Laviolette stopped them mid-line rush yesterday and made them do it over tells me they’re still adapting to his system and its details. If you recall GMBM said he acquired Eller at the draft, not the TDL, because of how long it can take a guy to adapt to a new system when joining a new team – the same logic must apply when you’re onto your third HC in four years, and in that time you’ve been coached by eight different HCs and assistant coaches. Guys like Carlson are at their best when they can play instinctively and read the play, not read the system. Add to that the constantly-changing pairs and lines, and adapting to the tendencies of 2-3 new goaltenders, is it any surprise they’re struggling a bit? The good news is their defense isn’t looking like a tire fire right now, and they’re getting better goaltending again. Give them time.