adam-williams/" target="_blank">adam-williams/&source=gmail&ust=1743857419967000&usg=AOvVaw3iyd_ncQ7HKFPopHiVnZXp" href="https://legalbet.uk/expert/adam-williams/">adam-williams/" target="_blank">Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NHL match.
Alexander Ovechkin has now scored his 892nd career goal, leaving him just three goals short of surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s longs-tanding record. The Chicago Blackhawks appear to be the kind of opponent against whom he could at least draw level with the legendary mark.
Washington Capitals
Alexander Ovechkin found the net even when the rest of the team failed to do so — in a 1:5 defeat to the Carolina Hurricanes. That result marked their fourth loss in the last five games. Interestingly, the one game they did win saw them score five goals, but even that wasn’t enough, as the Buffalo Sabres responded with eight. This dip in form could be down to the lack of pressure on the squad, who remain uncontested at the top of the Eastern Conference and may be using this period to experiment with their line-up. One such experiment was the recent inclusion of Ryan Leonard, captain of the United States U20 national team and a two-time World Junior Champion. Ryan Leonard made his NHL debut in the last two games against the Boston Bruins and the Carolina Hurricanes. Although he didn’t register any points, he logged an average of 15 minutes of ice time in each outing. The club hopes he could eventually become the long-term successor to Alexander Ovechkin.
Chicago Blackhawks
The Chicago Blackhawks had to trade home advantage for a trip to the capital. In their latest game, they put up a solid fight against the in-form Colorado Avalanche, ultimately falling short in a shootout, (2:3). Goaltender Spencer Knight was a standout performer, stopping 29 of the 31 shots he faced over 65 minutes of play. With that kind of consistency in goal, combined with the Washington Capitals squad seemingly focused solely on Alexander Ovechkin’s record chase, the Blackhawks could be in with a decent chance of taking something from the game. The key will be effective play at even strength. Their special teams are already delivering, ranking 10th in power play and 9th in penalty kill league-wide.
Washington Capitals vs Chicago Blackhawks Prediction
It’s certainly possible — especially considering that in the first head-to-head of the season, the Chicago Blackhawks managed to defeat one of the NHL’s top two teams (3:2). That match was played at home back in December. While the odds may not be in their favour, we’re also not expecting a rout. With that in mind, we’re backing the visitors to stay within reach, with a modest handicap.
