Caps ride historic wave of success into New York

By Bud L. Ellis

It started with a 4-2 victory over Montreal on Jan. 5. Now, nearly one month later, the Washington Capitals have just lost one time in that 15-game stretch.

The great work has carried the Caps from the middle of the Eastern Conference to the top of the NHL. And as the Caps get ready for Thursday’s visit with the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden, Washington truly is working on some history.

The Caps beat Boston Tuesday 4-1, setting a franchise record with their 11th straight victory. That’s the longest streak in the NHL since the lockout five seasons ago. With five games to go until the Olympic break, the Caps could really put some more breathing room between them and the Eastern Conference if they can continue their good work for another nine days.

Washington’s offense has been crazy-good during the streak, outscoring the opposition 51-22. The top line of Alex Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom and Mike Knuble have teamed up for 14 goals in 20 assists during the 11-game win streak.

Since this time last month, Washington’s only loss came Jan. 12 at Tampa Bay, 7-4. The Caps return home Friday to face Atlanta.

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Thursday, February 4, 2010 at 6:43 am by bud

Tags: Alex Ovechkin, Atlanta Thrashers, Boston Bruins, Mike Knuble, Montreal Canadians, National Hockey League, New York Rangers, Nicklas Backstrom, Tampa Bay Lightning, Washington Capitals