Gersich’s instincts have him In mix for playoffs

St. Louis Blues’ Robert Bortuzzo (41) and Washington Capitals’ Shane Gersich (63) chase after a loose puck along the boards during the first period of an NHL hockey game Monday, April 2, 2018, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)Shane Gersich left such an impression on Barry Trotz after his NHL debut last week that the Capitals coach remarked, “If he’s got better than that, I’m excited, for sure.”

Gersich’s playing time was brief. He saw just under nine minutes of ice time, but recorded three shots on goal in Washington’s 3-2 win over the New York Rangers.

But one performance wasn’t enough. Trotz wanted to see more, so the 21-year-old found himself in lineup Monday in St. Louis. He…