Boston Bruins need to shut down the Washington Capitals’ fourth line
By Jack Long
Three games and four overtimes into the Boston Bruins‘ Round 1 series against the Washington Capitals – there’s no doubt that this first-round tilt could be going the distance. In a series as close as this, it’s the little things that can make the biggest difference and the depth players that can win you a series. Even though the Bruins currently sit at a 2-1 series lead, it’s the Capitals that seem to be taking advantage of their depth.
The Washington Capitals’ roster is full of veterans with playoff experience and pedigree. They are built like the Boston Bruins in many ways upfront, with two offensively lethal units for their first two lines while their bottom two units are hard checking lines that can set a tone and get it done offensively.
The disparity has been noticeable when it comes to the depth up front though, especially when it comes to the fourth lines. The Washington Capitals’ fourth line currently sits at 6 points, while the Boston Bruins only has 1. It’s not just offence either, as the Capitals’ fourth line and especially winger Garnet Hathaway have been buzzing around and causing havoc all series.
Hathaway has been a force through the first three games of the series. Tied for the team lead in playoff points with 3, he has been lighting the lamp along with running around and creating energy with his physical play.
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The Boston Bruins have to shut down the Washington Capitals’ fourth unit if they want to have continued success in this series. It may sound funny with the likes of Alex Ovechkin and other Capitals’ stars residing on the first two units, but depth kills in the playoffs. Whether it be the offence or them running around physically, some Bruins player or line has to let the Capitals’ fourth unit know that that isn’t going to fly.