Key to Capitals' success extends beyond stars

WASHINGTON — While the Washington Capitals boast NHL gems such as Alexander Ovechkin, Braden Holtby and Nicklas Backstrom, coach Barry Trotz suggests the key to the team’s success this season is its broad range of players that extends well into the lineup.

He says one of the most important factors is the group of young players.

“It's because our young guys developed," Trotz said. "It's (Andre) Burakovsky, (Evgeny) Kuznetsov, (Tom) Wilson; they're all playing higher (in the lineup). I think our team, by all of them playing higher and playing more, our team speed is higher. And the back end is going with Schmidt and Orlov, who didn't play last year.”

Burakovsky, 21, has 12 goals and 16 assists; 23-year-old Kuznetsov has 18 goals and 44 assists, and 21-year-old Wilson has five goals and 14 assists, as well as 180 hits.

The other factor that doesn't get quite as much credit is the ability of the fourth line, specifically Brooks Laich, Mike Richards and Jay Beagle. “They can play against anybody in the league,” said Trotz. "They can left-hand, right-hand draw, they can play late-game situations.”

Mike Richards proved his worth, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd and much appreciation from his coaches and teammates during Monday’s 3-2 win against the Arizona Coyotes. The former L.A. King scored the game winner, his first goal as a Capital.

“He's caught up to the game, which is really good for us, and he's skating really well,” Trotz said of his performance over the past few games.

The Capitals lead the NHL with 92 points, and they are one win shy of their total (45) from last season.

They will continue to utilize every piece of their roster, with the hopes of getting closer to their first Stanley Cup this spring.

"We've gotten big goals and contributions from everyone, and that's what makes us dangerous," winger Justin Williams said.

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