Simeon Varlamov is starting in net for the Washington Capitals in game 2 of their first round series against the New York Rangers. Varlamov, only 20-years-old, has only started five games as an NHL goal-tender.<\/p>\n
The move was made just four days after Jose Theodore, Washington\u2019s starting goalie throughout the season, struggled in a 4-3 loss. Theodore\u2019s lackluster effort was cited \u2014 by both fans and the local media \u2014 as the reason for Washington\u2019s game-one loss.<\/p>\n
Varlamov has played well and seems to take better angles and move better in the net than Thedoroe, but his sample size as an NHL net-minder is miniscule. There was a sense of shock in the press box when Varlamov, and not Theodore, led the Capitals on to the ice in warmups.<\/p>\n
Nobody doubts Varlamov\u2019s ability. But how the youngster will respond under the bright light that is the NHL postseason is anybody\u2019s guess. Regardless, the decision to go with the kid by Capitals Head Coach Bruce Boudreu is incredibly gutsy.<\/p>\n
\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n
NOTE:<\/p>\n
The only rookie goalies to start playoff games for the Caps: Jim Carey, Byron Dafoe, Bob Mason and Simeon Varlamov.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"