We're already knee-deep into the preseason (six games down, two to go) and the
Washington Capitals evened their record at 3-3 with a resounding 4-1 beat down of the
Nashville Predators last night at
Verizon Center.
Eric Fehr scored two goals, new Center
Mikhail Grabovski added three assists and
Michael Neuvirth missed a shutout by just 14 seconds, as the Caps gave the 16,748 in attendance plenty to cheer about.
The Caps had lost three in a row, including two games to the Boston Bruins; but relished on the home ice, exploding for three goals in a decisive second period. Stars
Nicklas Bäckström and reigning MVP
Alex Ovechkin scored as well, showing mid-season form; while backup goalie Neuvirth turned away the first 33 shots he faced, until Nashville's Gabriel Bourque snuck in a power-play goal in the final minute to avoid the shutout.
Washington hosts their final preseason contest Friday night against Philadelphia at 7:00 PM. The Caps won a dramatic 4-3 shootout back on September 16th in Philly, and you can bet the Flyers will be out for revenge. The Capitals wrap up their preseason the next night in Chicago, who they'll also face in the league opener on Tuesday, October 1st.