There’s no rush to break down what was at points, the greatest Capitals season ever, and at other points (like last night) a monumental disappointment.

If you see a Caps fan today, give ’em a hug. They need it.

We have three months to talk about what went right, what went wrong, and everything in between.

The rush for the 2010-11 Stanley Cup begins tomorrow (one day of mourning is permitted). I am extremely thankful that the Caps will be on a short list of favorites for the Cup next season, rather than picking first in the NHL Draft in June.

If last night, and this series, has taught us anything, it’s that nothing can be taken for granted in sports, no matter what the odds or the stats say.

Dave Gilmore covers the Capitals every Tuesday and Thursday for Baltimore Sports Report. Follow him on Twitter at @BaltimoreCaps or email him at BaltimoreCaps@gmail.com