Casey DeSmith to start in net vs. Capitals

For the second game in a row, Penguins goaltender Casey DeSmith is getting the nod as the starting goaltender vs. the Washington Capitals.

DeSmith got the start in goal during Sunday’s matinee game against the Capitals, coming away with the win in the 4-3 shootout victory.

He made 20 saves on 23 shots in the team’s first win of the season, but his best work in the game arguably came during the 5-minute overtime frame and subsequent shootout.

Keeping all four Capitals players from scoring in the shootout, DeSmith made stops against T.J. Oshie, , Nicklas Backstrom, Evgeny Kuznetsov, and Alex Ovechkin.

DeSmith entered the previous game in relief of Tristan Jarry, who gave up 3 goals on 6 shots in 11 minutes and change to the Flyers. DeSmith was strong in relief, with 12 saves on 13 shots.

Personally, I don’t think there is a ton to read into here, long term though. Jarry is clearly the Penguins starter and with a shortened season and less room for error, I see it as riding the hot hand for the time being.