Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NHL match.
The Washington Capitals have already secured the Metropolitan Division title and head into the final stretch of the regular season in high spirits. The squad will enjoy home-ice advantage in the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes have lost their chance of finishing top and are struggling, coming into this fixture on a three-game losing streak.
Washington Capitals
The Capitals have been impressive on home ice, collecting 72% of available points — the third-best record in the Eastern Conference. They have won seven of their last eight games at home. During this stretch, the Capitals averaged 4.5 goals per game, which is unsurprising given that they lead the NHL in total goals scored (277). The standout performer is Alexander Ovechkin, who recently netted his long-awaited 895th goal, becoming the league’s all-time leading scorer. This season, Alexander Ovechkin has scored 42 goals, the highest tally in the squad. Defensively, the Capitals have also been solid, conceding an average of 2.74 goals per game — the ninth-best mark in the league.
Carolina Hurricanes
The Hurricanes find themselves in a slump, having lost three consecutive games by a combined score of 4:13. Among those defeats were heavy losses to the Boston Bruins (1:5) and the Buffalo Sabres (0:3), both currently outside the playoff spots. Over their last five away games, the Hurricanes have conceded an average of 4.4 goals, with goaltenders Pyotr Kochetkov and Frederik Andersen saving just 82.3% of shots faced. Offensively, the Hurricanes have struggled on the road, averaging just 2.63 goals per game, compared to 3.77 at home. Overall, their away form leaves much to be desired, with just 46% of the possible points collected — 10th in the Eastern Conference.
Washington Capitals vs Carolina Hurricanes Prediction
The Carolina Hurricanes are faltering as the regular season comes to a close and arrive in the capital in poor form. Momentum, motivation, and the backing of the home crowd are all on the side of the Washington Capitals. The form of Alexander Ovechkin and the overall efficiency of the team on home ice make a strong case for another Washington Capitals victory. The Washington Capitals already defeated the Carolina Hurricanes (3:1) at home earlier this season and look well-positioned to repeat that outcome.
