If Barry Trotz wanted to, he could have relaxed, lit a cigar and watched the rest of the NHL fight for positions in the Stanley Cup Playoffs while his Washington Capitals put a bow on a historic regular season.
Washington had 44 wins by Feb. 22, the most through 58 games by any team in the history of the League, and became the 10th team to reach 100 points in 65 or fewer games. The playoffs are a certainty, the Presidents' Trophy is in sight, and the Capitals have their best chance at exorcising playoff demons and winning the Stanley Cup for the first time.
Trotz, however, was not giving in to complacency. Though the Capitals entered a Feb. 18 game at the New York Islanders winners of five of their previous seven, Trotz believed they were slipping in certain areas. He knew opponents were bringing their best every night, so instead of taking the foot off the gas, he saw a chance to refocus and do even better.
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