The Washington Capitals trail the visiting Boston Bruins 2-0 at the end of the first period at Verizon Center.
Here are five observations from the first period:
- The Caps came out with great energy and had several solid scoring chances, but were hurt by a bouncing puck. Ice conditions are usually an issue at Verizon Center, and it appears tonight is no different.
- The Washington penalty kill is still solid. Boston had one chance and the Caps killed it. They are now 22 for 22 on the season.
- Michael Neuvirth got his sixth straight start, but was pulled after allowing two goals only minutes apart in the first period. He went straight to the locker room and did not return for the rest of the period. Not sure if he is hurt, or had an equipment problem. We'll see as the second period starts. (UPDATE: Neuvirth reportedly has the flu and will not return).
- Jeff Schultz was on the ice for the Bruins second goal, the first time Schultz has been on the ice for an opponents goal this season.
- Only one penalty was called in the first period, so don't expect many to be called the rest of the game.