Over the past few seasons, the Washington Capitals have been one of the most dynamic and explosive teams in the National Hockey League.
Of course, that's to be expected of a team that boasts the likes of Alexander Ovechkin, Alex Semin, Nicklas Backstrom and Mike Green.
This season however, things have changed in Washington D.C.
Following a couple of disappointing postseason performances, the Caps decided to change the way they play the game.
The team has shifted it's focus from goal-scoring to defense. A quick glance at Washington's offensive statistics says it all.
There really isn't one player on the roster who's numbers haven't taken a hit, including Ovechkin.
As the Caps continue their attempt at becoming a better all-around team, you have to wonder if certain players still belong in the lineup, starting with Mike Green.
Why Mike Green you ask?
Green has been a defensive liability since his first game in a Caps uniform. Sure, he's fantastic on the powerplay and puts up big offensive numbers, but you don't need that type of player to win a Stanley Cup.
Besides, John Carlson is already developing into a strong defenseman, one that's solid at both ends of the ice.
To me, that kind of defender is more valuable to a team than someone like Mike Green.
Is there any more evidence to this than the way the Capitals have played recently? They've taken over the Southeast Division lead and surged into second place in the Eastern Conference, doing so without Green in the lineup.
There's a reason he wasn't selected to represent Team Canada at the Olympics last year. It was his lack of defensive ability and his one-dimensional approach to hockey.
For a Capitals team that is trying to deviate from their previous approach, Green's style of play now clashes with the team's.
Such a change hasn't sat too well with Mike, as he manged just 24 points in 49 games this season, extremely sub-par for his standards.
John Carlson will likely finish with as many (if not more) points than Green was on pace for until the injury.
I'll pose the question once again: Are the Caps better without Mike Green?
Sure seems like it.
Follow Daniel Friedman on Twitter: @dfriedman_isles
Comments are welcome.
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