Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NHL match.
The Washington Capitals are on a roll, having remained undefeated on home ice for seven consecutive games. They aim to extend this impressive streak against the Pittsburgh Penguins, who are struggling at second-to-last in the Metropolitan Division.
Washington Capitals
Earlier in the week, the Capitals secured another regulation win at home, this time over the Nashville Predators (3:2). The game-winning goal was netted by Alex Ovechkin, who has tallied 8 goals in 12 games. If he maintains this form, Ovechkin might be headed for a vintage season with 50+ goals, potentially surpassing Wayne Gretzky's record.
There are no indications that the Washington Capitals will face a slump anytime soon. In fact, they might even improve. They currently sit last in the league for power play conversion (9.3%) yet rank fourth in scoring (4.08). According to public xG models, their special teams generate plenty of scoring chances in proportion to ice time (seventh in the league). Imagine their potential when the power play conversion luck starts to turn.
Pittsburgh Penguins
The Pittsburgh Penguins head into this back-to-back after a demoralising defeat to the Carolina Hurricanes (1:5). The Penguins found themselves playing catch-up for most of the game, conceding on the very first shot on goal. They were forced to press and siege the opponent's net repeatedly, only to get caught on the counter. In total, the Penguins fired 36 shots on target, with Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin spending 22 and 23 minutes on the ice, respectively. For the Penguins' nearly 40-year-old leaders, that's quite a heavy load.
Washington Capitals vs Pittsburgh Penguins Prediction
With the scheduling advantage, the Washington Capitals will capitalise on their opportunity and defeat their historic rivals. No team in the East has more regulation wins than the Capitals (8 victories in 12 games). We're backing the hosts.
