5 reasons why Washington Capitals will win Stanley Cup

4. Holtby/Grubauer

Perhaps the most underappreciated backup in the NHL, Philipp Grubauer has silently put up a 2.22 GAA and .923 save percentage over the last 3 seasons.

While Braden Holtby’s stats have severely regressed this year, his track record can’t be ignored and I would have full confidence starting him in Game 1. His playoff numbers are enviable over a large sample size of 59 games: 2.00/.953 with 4 shutouts.

Head coach Barry Trotz doesn’t need to make a decision quite yet on who will start, but he hasn’t ruled out playing a rotating tandem throughout the playoffs.

Far from holding a grudge for his reduced playing time, Holtby has been tremendously professional about the current situation. Coming up through the organization together has built a tremendous relationship between the two and will only serve to keep the lock room positive as they make their way through the playoffs.

You’d have to go pretty far back to the last time a legitimate goaltending duo won a Cup. The rival Penguins have essentially done it over the past two years, although they dealt with injuries. If I had to bet on one goalie improving his numbers over the regular season, it would be Braden Holtby — if he falters, Grubauer isn’t a bad plan B.