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Brian Pinho’s two goals lead Capitals past Hurricanes in 3-2 win

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The Washington Capitals played their final preseason game at home on Saturday, defeating the Carolina Hurricanes 3-2 in front of a loud crowd at Capital One Arena. The Caps, sporting a mishmash lineup of veterans and Hershey Bears regulars, received a stellar outing by Ilya Samsonov who was credited with the win.

Brian Pinho was the first star of the night after scoring twice, including a very ugly game-winning goal. Brett Leason also scored.

Brett Leason goal, 1-0

Brian Pinho goal, 2-0

Brian Pinho goal, 3-0

Brock McGinn goal, 3-1

Janne Kuokkanen goal, 3-2

Additional notes

  • The Capitals were out attempted 47-35 at five-on-five.
  • I’m trying not to read into it too much because it’s the preseason, but Evgeny Kuznetsov is starting to concern me. After having one of the worst defensive seasons in recent NHL history, the center has not found himself yet in September. Skating against a weak Carolina Hurricanes lineup, Kuznetsov had no points and owned the worst five-on-five shot attempt percentage (30.4 percent) among all Caps players. He can spout how he scored 70 points last season all he wants, but he needs to be better defensively.
  • Kuznetsov’s coverage in front of the net led to Janne Kuokkanen’s goal which narrowed the Caps’ lead to 3-2 late. He also took another stick infraction penalty – his second in two games this preseason. You can’t do that.
  • Let’s welcome to the score sheet Brett Leason. The 20-year-old rookie will likely start the season with the Hershey Bears, but it sure seems like this kid will be an NHL player someday. His shot is heavy and accurate. He can skate. He has a calmness that only great players do. If he can continue to put his two-way game together, he’s going to have himself a decent career in the NHL. He reminds me of Brett Connolly.
  • I described Brian Pinho’s game-winning goal on Twitter as a “knuckling muffin.” Tell me I’m wrong.

  • I really really really admire Braden Holtby and could never imagine him playing with another team, but it seems like the writing is on the wall for next season. Again, I know it’s just the preseason, but Ilya Samsonov looked fantastic in net tonight and he just has this star quality about him. His second-period stick save on a breakaway attempt was brilliant. He’s so big and calm in net, but can also make acrobatic saves when needed. When Ilya hits his ceiling, he’s going to be a very good goaltender in the NHL. The kid could probably play for the Caps this season and do well. While this is fun to consider, it’s also terrible to think about the other side of the coin with Braden. I hate you, salary cap. Come fight me in a dark alley.

  • Watch out, world. The Capitals are 3-0 in the preseason.
  • Preseason games can be boring, but this was a real treat to watch. The Caps crowd was loud.

I’m sad to say there was no Suit Of The Night as Joe Beninati was covering a Big 10 college football game.

So Rob Carlin had the call for NBC Sports Washington. But you guys, he did a really great job. Seriously. He could do this for a living.

Also, I would just like to remind the RMNB audience that I hate Alan May – even more after last night.

Headline photo: NBC Sports Washington

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