Monday's Capitals rookie camp showcased the young talents being stockpiled by the Capitals organization. The practice was a mix of stellar moments, interesting play, and a little bit of poor execution. There were moments where poor passes and shots wide of the net made you wonder just how hard the guys were making it for Coach Hanlon to pick his returners for regular training camp, as well as decide what leagues and teams everyone would be sent to.
The most notable part of practice was the high intensity on which it was executed. Coach Hanlon cut short drill attempts by several lines when it seemed he was unimpressed by their execution, and had a new line doing the drill almost immediately. No one was standing still for very long.
Probably the most interesting part of the day was the performances by both goaltenders, Daren Machesney and Michal Neuvirth. According to Corey Masisak, Machesney is the likely favorite to back up Cassivi in Hershey. Although by the looks of practice today, Neuvirth could give Machesney a run for his money. And after leading the OHL's Plymouth Whalers to the league title in his first year there, Neuvirth has expressed his interest in moving up to the pro level this year, partially because his Whalers team isn't as good as it was last year, and most likely won't be a title contender. But I'd have to agree with goalie coach Dave Prior in saying that maybe tending net for a worse team this year will really show what kind of goalie Neuvirth is. It's easier for a goalie to backstop a good team, but how will he respond to what most likely will be shots greater in both number and difficulty? Where he plays this season will be an interesting decision for the Capitals organization.
