The Washington Capitals are set to close out their first extended homestand of the season as they take on the Seattle Kraken. The Caps have had a solid homestand, winning two out of the three prior games and are looking to end it on a high note against the visiting Kraken. Seattle, on the other hand, is playing the fifth game of a demanding six-game road trip. Coming off a 5-2 loss to the Flyers in Philadelphia on Monday night, the Kraken will be aiming to bounce back in this matchup.
Caps coach Spencer Carbery emphasized the importance of finishing the homestand strong and maintaining a positive process. The team's ability to respond after a loss has been a characteristic of the group, with a solid record in games following a defeat during the Carbery era. The Caps are looking to continue their trend of swift rebounds after losses, preventing extended losing streaks.
Brandon Duhaime, who joined the Capitals last season, is set to play his 300th NHL game against the Kraken. Duhaime has evolved as a player since joining the Caps, showcasing improvements in various aspects of his game. His dedication to development and hard work on and off the ice has contributed to his growth as a player in Washington.
Duhaime has found success playing alongside Nic Dowd in a shutdown role, bringing energy and reliability to the lineup. Dowd and Duhaime have developed strong chemistry on the ice, with the veteran center mentoring the younger winger. Dowd's guidance and instructions have played a significant role in Duhaime's adaptation to his role within the team.
Jason Serbus, the Capitals' head athletic trainer, is set to reach an impressive milestone of 2,000 professional games. Serbus, known for his calm demeanor and wisdom, has been a valuable asset to the team since joining in 2017. The players expressed their gratitude for Serbus's hard work by gifting him an Alaskan fishing trip as a token of appreciation for his dedication and commitment to their well-being.
In goal, Logan Thompson will get the start for the Capitals, boasting strong stats in his first four starts of the season. Thompson has been reliable between the pipes, and his performance will be crucial in the upcoming game against the Kraken. On the Seattle side, the starting goaltender remains uncertain, with Philipp Grubauer and Matt Murray as potential options.
As the Capitals and the Kraken prepare to face off, both teams are gearing up for a competitive matchup. The Capitals are looking to build on their recent performances and secure a win to conclude their homestand on a positive note. With impressive milestones and key players stepping up, the stage is set for an exciting game between these two teams. Stay tuned for the latest updates and insights from the Capitals' homestand finale against the Kraken.
