Sunday, April 18, 2010

In defense of... the defense

Many words are being devoted this morning to the struggles of Mike Green and Jeff Schultz, each of whom had a difficult game last night.  It is part of a running narrative that disparages the Capitals defense.  And for purposes of this series and these playoffs, it is a valid concern.

But let's step back from the white-hot cauldron of playoff commentary for a moment and think a little bit about the longer term.  Think about opening night next year.  It is entirely likely that the Caps will dress four defensemen -- Mike Green, Jeff Schultz, John Carlson, and Karl Alzner -- none of whom will have yet reached their 25th birthday (Green will turn 25 on October 12th).

How many teams in the NHL would like to have that problem on their blue line?

1 comment:

Mark Bonatucci said...

Thank you, a voice of measured reason - as always!