Lighting the Lamp: Capital Offense

The visiting Washington Capitals are in a surly, combative mood. Four days ago they had more points than any other NHL team and led the Metropolitan Division after winning nine consecutive games. And then the Capitals waltzed into Pittsburgh Monday and battled hard, but ended up losing in overtime to the defending Stanley Cup Penguins.

The Caps had a 2-0 lead after one period and a 3-0 lead in the second period, only to see the Penguins score five straight goals and take the lead. But Washington came from behind twice in the third period to tie the game at the end of regulation, 7-7. Both teams combined for 74 hits in a game that exhausted even the spectators. So, Columbus’ victory Tuesday…