SKATE SHAVINGS -- News and Notes from Caps Morning Skate
The Washington Capitals return to Capital One Arena tonight to face the New York Rangers in a key Metro Division clash. The game marks the first of two consecutive four-point matchups for the Caps, who sit just three points ahead of their rivals in the standings.
Ethen Frank, a forward for Washington, will play his 50th career game tonight, showing steady progress this season. Meanwhile, Logan Thompson gets the start in goal, chasing his 15th win of the campaign.
The Capitals enter tonight’s contest with a 1-5 record in their last six games. Despite the recent struggles, they hold a slight edge over the Rangers in both the Metro Division and Eastern Conference standings. Igor Shesterkin, New York’s goaltender, is expected to start, aiming for his 16th victory of the season.
This game wraps up a busy stretch for Washington, who have played five times in eight nights. After tonight, the team will enjoy a three-day holiday break before returning to action on Saturday with a road game in New Jersey.
Ethen Frank’s development has been a bright spot for the Caps. His average ice time has increased by about a minute per game compared to last season, a sign of growing trust from the coaching staff. Though he ranks 206th in ice time among forwards with at least 25 games and six goals, his contributions have been notable. Over his 50-game career, Frank has recorded 10 goals and 10 assists for 20 points.
Under coach Spencer Carbery, the team has shown improvement. At this point last season, Washington had 50 points, while in Carbery’s first season (2023-24), they had just 42.
Tonight’s matchup carries extra weight as both teams push for positioning in the Metro Division. The Capitals will look to snap their recent slump before the holiday pause, while Frank and Thompson aim to build on their individual progress. The result could shift momentum heading into the second half of the season.
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