I believe the children are our future, so when I was at Kettler for Saturday’s practice I asked some of them, “What’s wrong with the Caps?”

“They’ve been losing.” – Sam, 7 1/2 years old

It doesn’t take decades to get wisdom, it takes seven and a half years. They have been losing. We all remember the eight game losing streak this year and through 45 games last season they only had 12 losses. This season they have 14. That’s almost 17% more, which is unacceptable. Start winning or Sam and I are looking for a new team.

“Need to use all the weapons they have.” – Jason, 8

I am going to assume he means skaters on the ice and not a Grenade Launcher +5, but Jason clearly has a point: get everyone involved in the offense. Try different line combinations. By my count, there have been only 168 different line combinations used at even strength that have been on the ice for at least one scoring chance. Not including goalies, there are more than 8,000 possible line combos. The season is more than half over; what are you waiting for, Boudreau??

“Not shooting at the net too much. Don’t know how to fix it.” – Noel, 11

In the last three games, the Caps have been outchanced 40-60– all losses. I gave Noel homework and the admin password for RMNB, so when he does figure out to fix it, he will let us know. We’re rooting for you, Noel.

“Power play needs work. Not creating enough opportunities.” – Emily, 17

13 chances during the last 15 PP opportunities is not enough? That’s almost a whole chance per PP opportunity over the last five games. I think your expectations are a bit high. Back when I was your age, we were lucky to have half a chance per power play opportunity. Now get off my lawn.

“What isn’t wrong with the Caps this year?” – Emily, 18 and fan of RMNB

Oh Emily. You are a fan of this blog.