As the Washington Capitals describe their expectations for a first-round series against the Philadelphia Flyers, the words “hard” and “emotional” are often used. Those words also describe right wing Tom Wilson, who plays on the brink of both. In the postseason, the Capitals want Wilson to be physical, but to also be smart about it.
“I think the coaches work with him constantly,” General Manager Brian MacLellan said. “I know [Coach Barry Trotz] talks to him regularly about managing his game, recognizing the moments in a game — to be physical to managing your emotion to reacting to when other people hit you.