This game could have had a nice story of two players facing their former teams. The blockbuster trade that happened right at the deadline weeks ago sent David Steckel to the New Jersey Devils, and brought Jason Arnott to the Washington Capitals. Both teams have benefited greatly from the trade, as each have been streaking and racking up wins. But neither forward is in the lineup for his team tonight.
The Capitals have struggled offensively early in this game, possibly missing Arnott as he remains out with an injury. Yet even though the Capitals have only managed two shots on goal against Martin Brodeur and the Devils, they lead 1-0.
The goal came just over six minutes into the game as defenseman Jeff Schultz tallied for the first time this season. Dennis Wideman and Mike Knuble assisted on the play.
Fortunately for Washington, they've had a grt performance so far from goaltender Michal Neuvirth, who turned away 12 of the shots he faced in the first period.