Caps' Slump Turns into Freefall in 7-0 Loss to Rangers

HM is sure she echoes the sentiments of many Caps fans when asked to describe her thoughts on the recent losing streak, which reached "rock bottom" status after last night's blowout at the hands of the New York Rangers. Ask anyone who knows me and they'll tell you this doesn't happen often, but honestly: I have no words - I am truly at a loss to attempt any rational explanation for what has happened to this hockey team we all know and love in recent weeks. Russian Machine Never Breaks is obviously feeling the same, and in addition to a list of possible "excuses" for the pitiful play of late, they've decided to stop posting until this fugly streak is reversed.

Many fans are calling for Gabby's head, saying that maybe he's lost the room. As much as I love the jovial coach, part of that may be true. But a large part also lies in the hands of the players - particularly some of our "stars" - who at times have looked as discombobulated as a Learn to Play House league kid. With the exception of a few work horses, (Matt Hendricks comes first and foremost to my mind) they don't seem to know (or desire) to play with that "piss and vinegar" (forgive my language here but it is what it is) fire under their bums that wins games by sheer grit and determination (because we all know they have the talent for crying out loud). So in light of my loss for words, here are some other takes on the current situation from Peerless, Puckhead's Thoughts, Ed Frankovic, OFB, and Corey Masisak from CSN.

In case you missed it (and count your lucky stars if you did), one of the few highlights on the night was Ovechkin dropping the mitts with Brandon Dubinsky:



The boys are sure to face a few very rough days of practice these next few days as they prepare to face the down and dirty Ducks on Wednesday. The Anaheim Ducks lit up the Minnesota Wild last night in a 6-2 win and Corey Perry netted his first career hat trick. Meanwhile, his stacked line which includes Ryan Getzlaf and Bobby Ryan contributed six goals and 11 points for the win. Time to reflect and regroup now Caps - this schedule is only going to get tougher in the days and weeks to come....