We were as surprised as you to see Semyon Varlamov in the crease to start tonight's game for the Washington Capitals. The goaltender hasn't played since Feb. 20, but went into this road game against the Ottawa Senators with a 100 percent clean bill of health, according to Katie Carrera of the Washington Post. It was Michal Neuvirth who apparently isn't healthy, and is resting due to illness as reported by Al Koken on Comcast SportsNet. Braden Holtby may even have to join the team for tomorrow night's game against the Montreal Canadians.
Varlamov turned away all 10 shots that he faced in the first period, as the game remains scoreless.
The Capitals peppered Ottawa goaltender Craig Anderson with 11 shots on target in the first period, but were unable to beat the American. The game has been fairly even so far, with both teams generating chances. The Capitals will need to play better in the final two periods in order to get the two points they need to tie the Flyers on top of the Eastern Conference.