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Miller on Laich’s guarantee: “Hopefully, it’s a huge distraction for them”

Detroit Red WIngs v Buffalo Sabres

BUFFALO, NY - DECEMBER 4: Ryan Miller #30 of the Buffalo Sabres warms up before a NHL game against the Detroit Red Wings at First Niagara Center on December 2, 2011 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)

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Brooks Laich might’ve just ruined the Capitals’ playoff hopes with that reckless guarantee.

At least, that’s Ryan Miller’s theory.

Buffalo’s starting goalie was asked about Laich’s “We’re making the playoffs” comment, and Miller’s response was, well, pretty smart actually.

“It’s distracting,” he told reporters, as per the Washington Times. “Hopefully, it’s a huge distraction for them. Some guys don’t react well to that. Guys might tighten up. Maybe their goaltenders – young goaltenders – aren’t going to react well to a guaranteed victory by their veteran guy. I think they start thinking about it.”

Not to mention, if you had to pick a team to choke, Washington would be a good choice. Yesterday, popular Capitals blog Japers’ Rink listed 10 games besides Tuesday’s loss to Florida that the Caps might regret losing.

It’s a convincing list, full of blown leads and winnable games that weren’t won.

The Caps are in the driver’s seat in the race for eighth in the East. Win out and they’re in. And on paper they’ve got an easier schedule (vs. Florida, at NY Rangers) than Buffalo (at Philly, at Boston).

Can’t trust them though.