Washington Capitals vs. Pittsburgh Penguins: 3 Takeaways From Game 5

WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 5: Washington Capitals left wing Jakub Vrana (13) celebrates with Alex Ovechkin (8) after scoring the go-ahead goal in the third period against the Pittsburgh Penguins at Capital One Arena. (Photo by Jonathan Newton/The Washington Post via Getty Images) /

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Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images /

2. Holtby Saves The Caps

The Washington Capitals did not deserve to win Game 5 after their second period. They left goaltender Braden Holtby out to dry. It’s a minor miracle he only allowed two goals, as the Penguins got numerous high-danger chances. The Capitals got outshot 18 to five, which is unacceptable.

Luckily, the Caps won thanks to two factors. First, they woke up in the third period and had a good first period. Secondly, Holtby was up to the task of limiting the damage done by the Penguins. A year after having the worst postseason series of his career, he has been outstanding against the Penguins. Holtby has yet to allow more than three goals in any game against Pittsburgh in this series.

Braden has always been a tough goaltender. He’s overcome a lot throughout his career to get to this point. That includes a terrible 2017-18 regular season and being benched for his backup to start the postseason. However, like all franchise goaltenders, Holtby has been there to bail his team out.

One of the hugest differences in the series has been goaltending. Matt Murray has been shaky at times. Holtby, aside from five minutes in Game 1, has been outstanding. The Capitals should each buy him a fancy dinner of his choosing after he saved their butts in Game 5.

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