Washington Capitals endure epic playoff collapse

If hockey had the widespread popularity of football or baseball in this country, the Washington Capitals would be mercilessly ridiculed in every newspaper, on every radio talk show, and around every water-cooler.

This was the equivalent of the Yankees blowing a 3-0 lead to the Red Sox in 2004. Up 3-1 and being the #1 seed in the East and certainly one of the best teams in the NHL, the Caps looked primed for a deep run in the playoffs. Instead, they are hanging their heads having endured the most epic collapse in sports history to the Montreal Canadiens. Never has a team been in that situation and lost 3 straight games. Never. Not in any sport.

The game itself was brutal to watch. The Capitals looked nervous and instead of playing with aggression, played not to make mistakes. Their lone goal came late with only 2 1/2 minutes left in regulation. It was seemingly the only time the Caps looked desperate all game. 2-time MVP Alexander Ovechkin seemed at a loss for words after the game.

“I’m in shock right now. I don’t know what to say,” Ovechkin said, his voice low, his eyes staring at the floor of the locker room.

Well, given the amount of free time he has now, I’m sure he can strum up a word or two.

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