With Saturday afternoon’s 4-3 overtime defeat, the Carolina Hurricanes are officially on a six game playoff losing streak, dating back to 2009.
Saturday’s overtime winner was a gut punch, especially given the goal scorer, long time Canes’ villain Brooks Orpik. The winning goal was precipitated by Brett Pesce’s diving effort in the neutral zone which saw him lose his stick.
The Capitals proceed to set up in zone. Recognizing that his defenseman is now without a stick, Teuvo Teravainen astutely hands his off to Pesce.
It’s a smart play, given the relatively light work work that wingers have in the defensive zone compared to defensemen and centers.