The Washington Capitals haven't played with a lead for very long under Dale Hunter. Nicklas Backstrom set out to change that Saturday.
Backstrom's goal about two minutes into the game has given the Caps a 1-0 lead over the Ottawa Senators after 20 minutes.
Backstrom's ninth goal of the season gave the Caps their earliest lead of the season at 1:58. Backstrom took a pass from John Carlson from center ice all the way into the slot. Even with four Senators surrounding him, Backstrom was able to fire a wrist shot high glove side past Craig Anderson. Backstrom trails Jason Chimera for the team lead in goals.
Despite the lead, the Caps continue to give up way more shots than they take. The Senators have 16 shots to the Caps' eight. Washington has yet to reach 20 shots on goal in two games under Hunter. Washington has 36 total shots in Hunter's first two games.