WASHINGTON - The Washington Capitals have plugged the gaps in the glass, hoping to avoid a repeat of the nasty exchange with fans that led to New York Rangers coach John Tortorella's suspension.

Before Tuesday night's Game 7, the Capitals filled the 1-inch spaces between the panes of glass behind the visitors' bench with seven I-shaped, Plexiglas stanchions.

The Capitals said they were also considering adding extra security personnel.

The last time the teams met in Washington, Tortorella squirted water at fans and tossed a water bottle into the crowd during the third period of the Capitals' 4-0 Game 5 victory.

The NHL suspended him for Game 6.