Washington Capitals have already clinched a playoff birth

It's safe to say that the Washington Capitals are having one hell of a season. That might even be saying it lightly. They are the first team to clinch the playoffs and have only played 69 games. With their win tonight in overtime against the Hurricanes, they picked up their 50th win. They are now 20 points up on the Islanders and Rangers who are tied for second in the Metropolitan division. The Caps are even 14 points up on Dallas and St. Louis for 1st in the league. The Presidents trophy seems to be within range.

Their insane record of 50-14-5 says it all. Alex Ovechkin is once again closing in on another 50 goal season, he scored his 42nd tonight. Braden Holtby picked up his 42nd win in only his 56th game. He is closing in on the single season wins record of 48 held by Martin Brodeur. The Capitals adding the right pieces during the offseason and how good Holtby has been have really been a key reason to their success.

As good as they have been this season, it will all be for nothing if they don't have a long run in the playoffs. So we will have to wait and see what happens in the post season,