I had a much longer column partially written, about practicing patience and taking to task everyone that seems so infatuated with blowing up the Caps for failing to close out Montreal after being up three games to one.
But instead of preaching, I'll give a simple history lesson.
It took Glen Sather, Wayne Gretzky, and his talented teammates four playoff seasons with the Edmonton Oilers before they won the Stanley Cup.
They then won the thing five times in seven years, including the last when the Great One had moved on.
It took Scotty Bowman, Steve Yzerman, and the Detroit Red Wings three playoff seasons working together, but then won the Cup three times in six seasons.
It took Al Arbour, Bryan Trottier, and Mike Bossy five seasons together before they won their first Cup; then they went on to win four years in a row.
All had heartbreaking playoff exits before being able to drink from the Cup.
Bruce Boudreau, Alex Ovechkin, and Nicklas Backstrom have been together for three playoff seasons.
History tells us we should be patient.
Of the Capitals top nine scorers this season, seven were 26 years old or younger.
In what should be their top four defensemen next season, the ol ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Dave Nichols
Washington Capitals Should Practice Patience, Not Panic
May 3rd, 2010 by Dave Nichols Leave a reply »
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