This is it. Win or go home. I'm not ready to go home. Hope you're not, either.
Rule of the day for the Islanders: keep your composure. The Caps are gonna be physical, as they've been all series. So what. Turn the other cheek. The Isles can't, and shouldn't get caught up in any retaliation. Stay out of the box. While each team has 14 goals in the series, the only place where the Caps have any advantage is on the PP, where they've outscored the Isles 2-0. That's it. Stay out of the box, the chances of winning increase.
The Isles, while relatively green in playoff experience, are unfazed by the situation. Cappy says they're gonna be the same team they've been all year:
“They’ve had that refuse-to-lose attitude, and I’ve said that. They’re a relentless team. It doesn’t matter how young we are or the rookies we have, they’ve got a veteran team on that side. They have a veteran hockey team from the back end to their goaltender right on out. I think we respect them but we don’t fear anybody.
That’s been our attitude all year. We just keep coming. We’re not going to go away. Whatever happens, and I told you going into tonight’s game, I knew our guys would work hard and give us everything they’ve got." |
Boychuk brings the perspective we knew he would, with his pedigree:
“Don’t be scared out there. Play with confidence. It’s one game, but it’s a very important game.”
“You have to stay in the moment and not let emotions get the best of you. That’s the main thing. You don’t want to take a penalty. You could be going home because of that penalty.” |
Finally, Cal Clutterbuck touches on what we're all feeling:
| “I think there’s a feeling of guys realizing how hard it’s been to get to this point—and I think there are a lot of guys in this room who aren’t ready to let that go.” |
Jaro Halak brings the playoff experience you'd want in a goalie with the series on the line. In playoff elimination games, Jaro is 6-1 in his career with only 12 goals allowed. He's relaxed heading into tonight:
| “I’m not trying to put extra pressure on myself. I’m just trying to go out there, have fun and help the guys try to win the game.” |
Regardless of the outcome, I'm proud of our boys. Let's get it done tonight.
Let's Go Islanders!
He's got a problem with his power
With weapons on patrol
He's got to walk a fine line
And keep his self-control
Sort of moot now because the Isles need to go to a full court press in the 3rd. Need to create some sort of pressure.
I find myself agreeing if that is what he said. Hopefully it wakes them the fuck up.
Good post
Believe.
But he sure as shit deserves to win this series. Also...#WinForLubo.
In comment 12252596 pganut said:
Come on boys.