More than two months into the season, the Washington Capitals are on top of the league standings by four points. They also rank in the top third in many of the major team stats: third in goals per game (3.48), 11th in goals against per game (2.80), seventh-best power play (22.6%), fourth-best penalty kill (85.3%), 11th in expected goals-for percentage (51.87%), and the fewest regulation losses (6). It’s all impressive to say the least.
But the Capitals could and should be better. How so? By optimizing their lineup to fit their strengths. Let’s take a look at what they are using now.