The return of Semin

HUGE game for the Caps tonight as the division leading Hurricanes come for a visit.  It's a chance for the Caps to continue their solid play and also climb further back into the hunt.  It also marks the return of Alexander Semin to Verizon.

Old friends Alex Ovechkin and Alexander Semin planned to get together for dinner Monday night, ahead of the Washington Capitals' big game against the Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday.  It's safe to say Troy Brouwer would not be joining them.

While Ovi has said that he missed having Semin on the team I think both from a talent perspective as well as having a fellow Russian on the team, Brouwer took a few potshots at Semin's work ethic after Monday's practice, reviving the reputation that dogged the talented but enigmatic Russian's seven seasons in Washington. The Capitals finally said goodbye to Semin last summer, and he signed with the Hurricanes as a free agent.

"It was tough to lose his scoring ability, when he wanted to play," Brouwer said. "But all in all I think we've been doing well without him. ... Some nights you didn't even know if he was going to come to the rink. It's tough to play alongside guys like those because you don't know what you're going to get out of 'em."



For good measure, Brouwer also said the Capitals had a "very lackadaisical" culture under former coach Bruce Boudreau. The streak of candor highlighted an eventful day of news good and bad that comes just as Ovechkin and the Capitals are finding themselves with a chance to ride some momentum and get out of last place.

I really like Brouwer.  Frankly, he is deserving of the "C" on his jersey.  The guy is a leader on and off the ice.  He is vocal and constantly puts maximum effort night in/night out.  I think he also knows how to get his teammates motivated. 

His comments on Gabby were also interesting. He wasn't here during Gabby's hey day so he more caught it when Gabby tried to alter styles while here which was a mistake for everyone.  He seems to really like Oates' style and I think the team looks like it is finally starting to come around. 

With the extension given to Holtby, the Caps are putting their trust in that kid and if we can get a healthy Green and Laich back and if Backstrom can return to form, this could be a pretty good team.

Again, a VERY important game tonight.  A win puts us right back into the thick of things and keeps the momentum going.  Will be interesting to see what type of reception Semin gets.  Should be a good one.

UNLEASH THE FURY!!!!