Braden Holtby didn't let a shaky start to the 2013 campaign derail his confidence and at the end of the year he emerged as a solid option between the pipes and the team's undisputed starter.

He posted a 23-12-1 record, a 2.58 goals-against average, a .920 save percentage and four shutouts in 36 games. "If you're not improving every year, you're doing something wrong," said Holtby. "It was nice to get sort of a full season in, and every little experience can help if you use it the right way." He brought some stability to Washington's crease for the first time in a while and will likely be given the number one job again heading into next season.

Braden Holtby allowed five goals on 27 shots in the Washington Capitals' 5-0 Game 7 loss to the New York Rangers on Monday night.

Holtby was excellent for the entire series, matching New York netminder Henrik Lundqvist seemingly save for save. Despite the five goals, it's tough to blame the young Washington goalie for Monday's loss. Holtby was screened on the Rangers' first and third goals and was completely left alone in goals No. 4 and 5 after brutal turnovers by the Caps. Holtby is pretty much the reason the Capitals were even in the playoffs to begin with and fans should take solace in the fact they might finally have a long-term solution in goal.

Braden Holtby allowed just one goal on 29 shots Sunday, but suffered a loss as the Capitals were beaten by the Rangers by a score of 1-0.

Despite the fact the team has been unable to put away the Rangers in the series, Holtby has been excellent and really doesn't deserve to shoulder any blame for their losses in Games 3, 4 and 6.