New York Islanders vs Washington Capitals Prediction: Can the Caps Offense Stay Hot?
New York Islanders vs Washington Capitals Prediction: Can the Caps Offense Stay Hot?
The Washington Capitals, who went 2-0-1 on their latest road trip, scored a total of 12 goals in the three games. The Capitals' offense has come to life since the return of T.J. Oshie, Nicklas Backstrom, and Anthony Mantha, and they will look to bring that momentum onto home ice tonight.
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New York Islanders vs Washington Capitals Prediction
The Capitals currently hold the final Wild Card spot in the East and have an 11 point lead on the Columbus Blue Jackets, who are trying to make a push. The Caps are three points behind Boston for the first Wild Card spot, and five points behind the Rangers for third in the Metropolitan division.
The New York Islanders are also streaking right now as they have won three in a row and four of five, but it is going to be too little, too late for them to get back into playoff contention. As opposed to previous seasons, the Isles have had a hard time defensively this season.
At home this season, the Capitals average 3.17 goals per game, and their power play is only 20% in their home games. I am focusing on recent trends, however. The Caps have scored three or more goals in five of their last six home games and each of their last six games overall. Over their last ten games, their power play has come to life as they have registered 11 power play goals on 35 opportunities, a 31.4% conversion rate. I mentioned how the Islanders have, uncharacteristically, struggled on defense this season, most notably, on the road. New York's goals against per game goes from 2.33 at home to 3.15 goals per game on the road, a very significant increase. New York's penalty kill has been good all season, but has struggled recently.
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Over their last 10 road games, the Isles penalty kill is 72%, which is a drop-off from their 80% average on the season. Finally, The Isles are turning to Semyon Varlomv in net tonight. Semyon has been a drop off from Iyla Sorokin this season, especially on the road where he has a 3.38 goals against average and a .895 save percentage. He has given up three or more goals in four of his five road starts this season. Washington's offense is definitely trending in the right direction, I am banking on their recent offensive road success to carry over on home ice in a favorable matchup against the Islanders tonight.
New York Islanders vs Washington Capitals Line Movement
New York Islanders vs Washington Capitals Pick
- Washington Capitals team Total Over 3 -125 (Bet $125 to win $100)
Article Author
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Tone has been handicapping the four major sports for over twenty years. An NHL enthusiast, Tone’s expertise lies on the ice. He’s excelled and profited finding the right angles on NHL games, particularly with player props, game props, and game totals. A contributor to several gaming sites, you can follow him on Twitter @TonesTakes.