While the talk from Game 3 of Pens vs Caps will ultimately be about the hit on Sid, his health, and the ongoing reality that head trauma is indeed an issue in the NHL, there was an interesting play in the 1st period I'd like to draw (excuse the pun) attention to.
Washington was up 1-0 after the Penguins took back-to-back penalties and looking to strike again while still up a man.
Washington was up 1-0 after the Penguins took back-to-back penalties and looking to strike again while still up a man.
At first glance, the play above looks ordinary. The puck is along the boards and the players are battling for possession. But if you look a little closer, you'll notice a few things. Check out Johansson's left skate. That's right, he's standing on the puck. Protecting it while balancing on his right skate and his left arm on the dasher.
As the players continue to dig, look at where he turns his head. He's drawn 3 out of 4 penalty killing Penguins behind the goal line, and while maintaining complete control of the puck, is looking in front for where to make a play.
The next image shows just how heads up a play it was. John Carlson was left all alone in the slot and Johansson, thanks to having his head up, skillfully slid the puck towards him for a high quality scoring chance.
Fleury ended up making the save as Carlson was falling over. But this is a great example of the skills and smarts that the players put to use on a nightly basis (as well as a complete breakdown in Pittsburgh's PK coverage).
Fleury ended up making the save as Carlson was falling over. But this is a great example of the skills and smarts that the players put to use on a nightly basis (as well as a complete breakdown in Pittsburgh's PK coverage).