Washington Capitals betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets

New York Rangers at Washington Capitals Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s New York Rangers at Washington Capitals odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The New York Rangers and Washington Capitals meet in Game 4 of a best-of-7 Eastern Conference 1st-round series Sunday. Puck drop from Capital One Arena is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (TBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Rangers vs. Capitals odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Playoff series: Rangers lead 3-0

The Rangers posted a 4-1 win in Game 1 at Madison Square Garden April 21, and then scored a 4-3 victory in Game 2 on Tuesday for the only Over (5.5) result of the series. In Game 3, the Capitals were unable to protect home ice, falling 3-1 as the Rangers pushed them to the brink of elimination.

The Blueshirts have picked up 5 consecutive wins, while going 8-2-0 in the past 10 games since April 3, rolling right along. The Under is on a 5-1 run for the Rangers as goaltender Igor Shesterkin has snapped into championship form just in the nick of time.

The Capitals haven’t played poorly in this series, but the offense has mustered just 5 total goals, as Shesterkin has been a brick wall. Like the Rangers, the Capitals have been on an Under run, going low on the total at a 7-1-3 clip in the past 11 outings.

Stream the NHL all season on ESPN+, with your team’s out-of-market games, exclusive games, originals and more. Get ESPN+ now!

Rangers at Capitals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:39 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Rangers -190 (bet $190 to win $100) | Capitals +155 (bet $100 to win $155)
Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers -1.5 (+130) | Capitals +1.5 (-155)
Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Rangers at Capitals projected goalies

Igor Shesterkin (36-17-2, 2.58 GAA, .913 SV%, 4 SO in regular season) vs. Charlie Lindgren (25-16-7, 2.67 GAA, .911 SV%, 6 SO in regular season)

It’s hard to imagine the Rangers not riding Shesterkin in Game 4, but he was not confirmed as of early Sunday afternoon. Could they potentially use G Jonathan Quick for the close-out game, resting the starter with a cushion in the series?

Shesterkin has had it on lockdown in this series, going 3-0-0 with a 1.67 GAA and .933 SV% in the 3 outings, allowing just a single goal in 2 of the victories.

Lindgren is confirmed for the Caps, and the Lakeville, Minn., native has certainly done his part. He has allowed 11 total goals in his first full playoff series, going 0-3-0 with a 3.77 GAA and .864 SV%. While he hasn’t been nearly as sharp as Shesterkin, he has been good at times. But he hasn’t been great, and he hasn’t had very much offensive support, with the Caps posting just 1.7 goals per game (GPG) in the series.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Rangers at Capitals picks and predictions

Prediction

Rangers 3, Capitals 2

Moneyline

The Rangers (-190) will cost nearly 2 times your potential return, and that’s way too much risk against a team with its backs against the wall.

The Capitals (+155) are likely to show some fight in what could be their last game of the season, and most likely their final game on home ice, even if they can grab a win and get the series back to New York for Game 5.

PASS.

Puck line/Against the spread

The CAPITALS +1.5 (-155) aren’t priced out of line as home underdogs on the puck line.

The hardest win to get is the 4th one in a series. The Carolina Hurricanes and Florida Panthers were trying to close out sweeps on Saturday and were unable to do so. The Rangers -1.5 (+130) should experience similar difficulties, as the Capitals show desperation and urgency, trying to stay alive.

Over/Under

UNDER 5.5 (-115) is the lean, but it’s only worth a half-unit play at best.

We’ve had the Under cash in 2 of 3 games in the series, including Game 3 in D.C. The Capitals offense has amassed just 5 goals in the 3 games so far, and they’re not likely to suddenly explode all over Shesterkin. The defense and goaltending must be better in Game 4, and with a lot more desperation and selling out, we should see them keep the Rangers to 3 or fewer goals. It shouldn’t be shocking to see his game tied 2-2 going into overtime to decide thing

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1369]

New York Rangers at Washington Capitals Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s New York Rangers at Washington Capitals odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The New York Rangers and Washington Capitals meet in Game 3 of a best-of-7 Eastern Conference 1st-round series Friday. Puck drop from Capital One Arena is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Rangers vs. Capitals odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Rangers control the series 2-0 after taking down the Capitals 4-3 Tuesday to cash as -281 home favorites. Four different NY players found the back of the net, while LW Alexis Lafreniere and D Erik Gustafsson each had 2 assists. The team has scored 4 goals in each of the 1st 2 games of the series.

Washington failed to cash as a +245 road underdog Tuesday. After allowing 2 goals in each of the 1st 2 periods, Washington’s comeback fell short. Three different Capitals players scored, while RW Tom Wilson had a goal and an assist. The series moves back to Washington Friday where the Capitals were 22-12-7 during the regular season.

Stream the NHL all season on ESPN+, with your team’s out-of-market games, exclusive games, originals and more. Get ESPN+ now!

Rangers at Capitals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:44 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Rangers -175 (bet $175 to win $100) | Capitals +145 (bet $100 to win $145)
Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers -1.5 (+150) | Capitals +1.5 (-185)
Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Rangers at Capitals projected goalies

Igor Shesterkin (36-17-2, 2.58 GAA, .913 SV%, 4 SO) vs. Charlie Lindgren (25-16-7, 2.67 GAA, .911 SV%, 6 SO)

Shesterkin has one of the best records in the NHL and is top 10 in shutouts as well. He has allowed just 4 goals total through the 1st 2 games against the Capitals and is a large reason for the team’s success this season. His 55 games started this season is the 2nd-most in his career.

Lindgren is tied for 13th-best in the NHL for his record and SV%, and he ranks 16th in GAA. His 6 shutouts are tied for the best in the league. He has not had a hot start to the series, allowing 4 goals in each of the 1st 2 games. He has allowed 3 of fewer goals in 7 of his last 9 starts.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Rangers at Capitals picks and predictions

Prediction

Capitals 4, Rangers 3

Moneyline

BET CAPITALS (+145).

While the Capitals are down 2-0 in the series, they started to get a better read on New York in Game 2. They scored in each period, and after allowing 2 goals in each of the 1st 2 periods, they held them scoreless in the 3rd.

Returning to their home ice Friday, the Capitals are nearing a must-win game to keep their playoff hopes alive, and with their fans behind them, they will do just that.

Puck line/Against the spread

PASS.

The moneyline presents better value on Washington.

Over/Under

BET OVER 5.5 (-115).

The Rangers have scored 4 goals in each of their last 3 games and 3 or more in 7 of their last 9. They have allowed 3 or more goals in 6 of their last 10 games.

Washington started to find its groove on offense Tuesday and will speed up the pace Friday at home. It will not win by keeping the Rangers off the board, but by outscoring their high-powered offense.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @seth_orlemann on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1369]

Washington Capitals at New York Rangers Game 2 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Washington Capitals at New York Rangers odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Washington Capitals and New York Rangers meet in Game 2 of a best-of-7 Eastern Conference, 1st-round series Tuesday night. The Rangers lead the series 1-0. Puck drop from Madison Square Garden is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Capitals vs. Rangers odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Capitals and Rangers finished the 1st period 0-0 in Game 1, but Washington allowed three 2nd-period goals in less than a 3-minute span to fall 4-1 Sunday. D Martin Fehervary scored Washington’s lone goal as the puck deflected off his skate in front of the net.

New York made it 1-0 thanks to rookie C Matt Rempe, who is listed at 6-foot-7 and 241 pounds and is typically on the ice to be an enforcer rather than a goalscorer. LWs Artemi Panarin and Jimmy Vesey followed suit, and LW Chris Kreider added the Blueshirts’ 4th goal in the 3rd period.

Stream the NHL all season on ESPN+, with your team’s out-of-market games, exclusive games, originals and more. Get ESPN+ now!

Capitals at Rangers odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:20 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Capitals +220 (bet $220 to win $100) | Rangers -275 (bet $275 to win $100)
Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Capitals +1.5 (-125) | Rangers -1.5 (+102)
Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: -106 | U: -114)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Capitals at Rangers projected goalies

Charlie Lindgren (25-16-7, 2.67 GAA, .911 SV%, 6 SO) vs. Igor Shesterkin (36-17-2, 2.58 GAA, .913 SV%, 4 SO)

Lindgren described the Rangers as “deadly” after the Game 1 defeat, but the 30-year-old has found success this season after a loss. Among goalies with at least 50 games played during the regular season, Lindgren sported the No. 1 high-danger unblocked shot attempt SV% (.834) in the NHL.

Shesterkin’s .929 career playoff SV% is even superior to the legendary Henrik Lundqvist (.921) and also the highest among the remaining playoff netminders (min. 20 games). The Game 1 victory was his 14th career playoff win, moving him past John Vanbiesbrouck for 6th-most in franchise history.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Capitals at Rangers picks and predictions

Prediction

Rangers 4, Capitals 2

Moneyline

Consider betting Rangers (-275) in an ML parlay.

NEW YORK (-275) has too much juice to lay on its own, but if you like the VANCOUVER CANUCKS (-154 ML vs. Nashville Predators, 10 p.m. ET) as I do, a 2-team parlay pays out +125.

Puck line/Against the spread

BET RANGERS 1.5 (+102).

Shesterkin has joined the ranks of the all-time playoff greats already with 10 straight home playoff starts with 2 goals or fewer surrendered. Meanwhile, the best goalscorer of our generation LW Alex Ovechkin was held to 0 shots in Game 1 as the Rangers defense swallowed up so many Capitals offensive sets.

The Rangers featured the 3rd-best power play during the regular season (26.42%), so if they are able to get the man advantage in front of their home crowd, I expect them to be able to light the lamp.

The Capitals finished the season admirably to reach the postseason, but their -37-goal differential during the regular season proves that this team is not capable of hanging with a Stanley Cup contender on the road.

Over/Under

BET OVER 5.5 (-104).

The Rangers should be able to get close to this total on their own with all of their offensive weapons. Even D Adam Fox can find the back of the net as the 26-year-old averaged the 4th-most goals per game among defensemen (0.24). Plus, only the Toronto Maple Leafs had more empty-net goals during the regular season than New York (10).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @TheBigCheeShow on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1369]

Washington Capitals at Philadelphia Flyers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Washington Capitals at Philadelphia Flyers odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Washington Capitals (39-31-11) visit the Philadelphia Flyers (38-32-11) to wrap up their regular seasons at Wells Fargo Center Tuesday. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Capitals vs. Flyers odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Season series: Tied 1-1

This is essentially a play-in game, with some other factors in play to determine a playoff berth. What is clear, though, is that a Flyers loss means they’d be eliminated. A Flyers win in regulation, overtime or a shootout gives Philly a chance, but they also need Montreal to beat Detroit in regulation, and the New York Islanders must also beat the Pittsburgh Penguins in regulation to get the Fly Guys into the dance.

For Washington, it simply needs to win, like it did 2-0 against the Boston Bruins Monday night, and it is into the postseason.

The Capitals won 5-2 in most recent meetings March 1 in D.C., but the Flyers won 4-3 in a shootout at Wells Fargo Center Dec. 14 as favorites (-125) as the Over (6) cashed.

Stream the NHL all season on ESPN+, with your team’s out-of-market games, exclusive games, originals and more. Get ESPN+ now!

Capitals at Flyers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:15 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Capitals +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Flyers -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Capitals +1.5 (-210) | Flyers -1.5 (+170)
Over/Under: 5.5 (O: -120 | U: +100)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Capitals at Flyers projected goalies

Charlie Lindgren (24-16-7, 2.71 GAA, .910 SV%, 6 SO) vs. Samuel Ersson (23-18-7, 2.86 GAA, .890 SV%, 4 SO)

The 30-year-old Lakeville, Minn. native has really saved the bacon of Washington this season, getting it to the brink of the postseason in a season it wasn’t expected to compete. He posted a 16-save shutout against the Bruins Monday, and it’s likely he is tasked with the start in a back-to-back, rather than leaning upon the more shaky Darcy Kuemper.

Ersson is confirmed to start, and he has also been a revelation for the Flyers. He has won back-to-back starts, including a 20-save shutout in a 1-0 win against the New Jersey Devils Saturday last time out. He did allow 5 goals on just 21 shots in a loss at Washington March 1, but he stopped 27 of 30 shots he faced in a 4-3 SOW at home Dec. 14 against the Caps, too.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Capitals at Flyers picks and predictions

Prediction

Capitals 3, Flyers 2

Moneyline

The CAPITALS (+120) are worth a look on the road in what is essentially a play-in game. It certainly is a play-in for Washington, as a win and it’s in. It’s a little more complicated for the Flyers (-145).

Washington came up huge in a shutout victory against Boston, and it might not make a deep run into the postseason, but nobody wants to face the likes of Alexander Ovechkin and a red-hot Lindgren, who had 6 shutouts this season.

Puck line/Against the spread

The Capitals +1.5 (-210) will cost you more than 2 times your potential return, should you require a little bit of insurance. If you’re a little more on the conservative side, this is just too much. Back Washington on the moneyline, or simply AVOID.

Over/Under

UNDER 5.5 (+100) is a strong value at even-money.

While, yes, the Over has cashed in each of the 2 regular-season meetings this season, there is a lot more on the line Tuesday, and scoring will be at a premium.

The Under is on a 4-0-3 run for the Capitals in the past 7 games while cashing in the past 2 games for the Flyers. In fact, after an ugly 8-game stretch from March 24-April 9 which saw Philly allow 4 or more goals in each outing, Ersson and the Flyers have allowed just 1 goal in the past 2 games.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1369]

Washington Capitals at Buffalo Sabres odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Washington Capitals at Buffalo Sabres odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Washington Capitals (37-30-11) visit the Buffalo Sabres (37-37-5) Thursday evening. Puck drop from KeyBank Center is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Capitals vs. Sabres odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Capitals snapped a 6-game losing streak with a 2-1 road win over the Detroit Red Wings Tuesday. LW Alex Ovechkin and C Dylan Strome each found the back of the net for the Capitals in the 2nd period to give them a 2-0 lead, and a 3rd-period goal from Detroit was not enough to complete the comeback.

The Sabres have lost back-to-back games after falling 3-2 against the Dallas Stars Tuesday. RW Alex Tuch and D Rasmus Dahlin each scored for Buffalo in the 1st period, but a 2-goal 2nd period from Dallas proved to be too much to handle.

Stream the NHL all season on ESPN+, with your team’s out-of-market games, exclusive games, originals and more. Get ESPN+ now!

Capitals at Sabres odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:25 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Capitals +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Sabres -135 (bet $135 to win $100)
Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Capitals +1.5 (-225) | Sabres -1.5 (+180)
Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: +100 | U: -120)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Capitals at Sabres projected goalies

Charlie Lindgren (22-15-7, 2.78 GAA, .909 SV%, 5 SO) vs. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (26-22-3, 2.58 GAA, .910 SV%, 5 SO)

Lindgren has seen the most action for the Capitals this season and is middle of the pack in regards the NHL. His 22-15-7 record ranks 18th, his 2.78 GAA ranks 19th, and his .909 SV% is 17th. He is 9-8 with a 2.99 GAA on the road this season.

Luukkonen has seen more action than the Sabres’ other 2 goalies combined this season. His 26-22-3 record is 11th-best in the NHL, as is his 2.58 GAA. Like Lindgren, he also has 5 SO this season, which is tied for 3rd-most in the NHL. He is 14-11 with a 2.25 GAA on his home ice this season.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Capitals at Sabres picks and predictions

Prediction

Sabres 4, Capitals 3

Moneyline

BET SABRES (-135).

The Sabres play their best hockey on their home ice with a 20-19-1 record. They return home after a 2-game road trip, and they are 3-1 in their last 4 in Western New York. They have scored 15 goals in that span at home and given up just 9.

Washington has dropped 6 of its last 7, including 3 of its last 4 on the road.

Puck line/Against the spread

PASS.

The odds are better on the Sabres moneyline.

Over/Under

BET OVER 6 (+100).

While the Capitals have not been hot on the offensive end, scoring 2 goals or fewer in each of their last 7, they have given up 3 goals or more in 4 of their last 5, including 4 or more in 3 of their last 5.

The Sabres have scored 13 goals in their last 4 games. They’ve also scored 3 or more goals in 5 of their last 9 games and 6 of their last 10.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @seth_orlemann on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1369]

Washington Capitals at Detroit Red Wings odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Washington Capitals at Detroit Red Wings odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Washington Capitals (36-30-11) visit the Detroit Red Wings (38-31-8) Tuesday at Little Caesars Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Capitals vs. Red Wings odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Season series: Tied 1-1

The Capitals lost 3-2 in overtime on Sunday to the Ottawa Senators as the Under (6) cashed, and Washington is 0-4-2 in the past 6 outings. As a result, the Caps have slipped 1 point behind the Red Wings and the Pittsburgh Capitals for the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference, and 2 points back of the New York Islanders for the 1st Wild Card spot.

The Red Wings have picked up the pace, posting wins in 2 of the past 3 games, including a surprising 4-2 win in Tampa Bay against the Lightning on April 1. The Under has cashed in 4 of the past 5 outings.

The last time these teams met in Washington on March 26, the Caps won 4-3 in overtime as the Over (6) cashed. The total has gone high in both meetings, with 18 total goals in the 2 outings.

Stream the NHL all season on ESPN+, with your team’s out-of-market games, exclusive games, originals and more. Get ESPN+ now!

Capitals at Red Wings odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:16 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Capitals +130 (bet $100 to win $130) | Red Wings -155 (bet $155 to win $100)
Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Capitals +1.5 (-190) | Red Wings -1.5 (+155)
Over/Under: 6 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Capitals at Red Wings projected goalies

Darcy Kuemper (13-14-3, 3.31 GAA, .890 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Alex Lyon (20-17-4, 2.98 GAA, .908 SV%, 2 SO)

Kuemper was bombarded with 44 shots in Raleigh against the Carolina Hurricanes last time out on Friday, allowing 3 goals in a 4-2 loss. He has lost his past 3 starts, last winning Feb. 26 at home against the Ottawa Senators. He has fallen into a backup role behind Charlie Lindgren.

Lyon is confirmed to start. He allowed just a single goal on 38 shots in a 3-1 win against the Buffalo Sabres on Sunday, and he is a healthy 2-1-0 with a 2.37 GAA and .938 SV% in 3 April starts.

Lyon allowed 4 goals on 30 shots in the 4-3 OTL against the Capitals in D.C. on March 26 in his most recent start against Washington, but he allowed 3 goals on 21 shots in an 8-3 win on Feb. 27 in the Motor City.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Capitals at Red Wings picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Wings 5, Capitals 3

Moneyline

The RED WINGS (-155) are a solid play as moderate favorites, as the home team has won 4 of the past 5 meetings in this series, with Detroit holding a slight 3-2 edge in the 5-game span.

The Red Wings are playing slightly better hockey lately, too, as the Capitals (+130) have really struggled recently, and are now on the outside looking in for a playoff spot.

Puck line/Against the spread

The RED WINGS -1.5 (+155) are worth a roll of the dice on the puck line for the chance to potentially win 1 1/2 times your initial wager.

Detroit has won by 2 or more goals in each of its past 3 wins in the series, so if you like the Red Wings to pick up the victory, you should like them to cover the puck line.

Over/Under

OVER 6 (-110) is a decent bet in this important Eastern Conference battle between playoff hopefuls.

The Over has cashed in both meetings this season, and 3 of the past 4 in the series.

The Over is just 2-3-1 in the past 6 games for the Capitals, but one of those games was a home meeting against the Red Wings on March 26. The same holds true for the Caps, as the Under is 5-2 in the past 7 games, but one of the games which went high was against the Winged Wheel.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1369]

Washington Capitals at Carolina Hurricanes odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Washington Capitals at Carolina Hurricanes odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Washington Capitals (36-29-10) and Carolina Hurricanes (47-22-7) meet Friday at PNC Arena in Raleigh, N.C. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Capitals vs. Hurricanes odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Season series: Capitals lead 2-1, including a wild 7-6 shootout win in D.C. on March 22 in the most recent meeting

The Capitals played Thursday night at home against the Pittsburgh Penguins, falling 4-1 as the Under (5.5) connected. In its most recent game playing on no rest, Washington won 2-1 in Seattle behind a strong effort from goaltender Charlie Lindgren. However, the Caps are 1-4-2 in the past 7 games on no rest dating back to Jan. 3, while the Under holds a slight 4-3 advantage in those games.

The Hurricanes hosted the Boston Bruins Thursday night at PNC Arena, with the visitors skating away with a 4-1 win. Carolina last played in Washington on no rest in that wild 7-6 SOL on March 22, failing to cover as a huge road favorite (-190). However, Carolina is 5-1-2 in the past 8 games in the 2nd end of a back-to-back, with the Over-Under splitting 4-4 in those outings.

When the Canes played their only back-to-back with consecutive home games, they topped the Seattle Kraken 3-2 in OT on Oct. 26, before polishing off the San Jose Sharks 3-0 on Oct. 27. The Under cashed in each of those games.

Stream the NHL all season on ESPN+, with your team’s out-of-market games, exclusive games, originals and more. Get ESPN+ now!

Capitals at Hurricanes odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:38 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Capitals +220 (bet $100 to win $220) | Hurricanes -275 (bet $275 to win $100)
Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Capitals +1.5 (-125) | Hurricanes -1.5 (+105)
Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Capitals at Hurricanes projected goalies

Darcy Kuemper (13-13-3, 3.32 GAA, .888 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Pyotr Kochetkov (20-13-4, 2.38 GAA, .911 SV%, 4 SO)

Kuemper came on in a relief role Tuesday, turning aside all 4 shots he faced in 14:19 of ice time against the Buffalo Sabres. In his most recent start, he faced Carolina, allowing 4 goals on 22 shots in a start, but he was pulled after 2 periods. He had a disastrous March, going 0-1-0 with a 6.62 GAA and .814 SV% in 2 outings.

Kochetkov kicked aside all 26 shots he faced in Montreal last time out on Saturday, earning his 4th shutout of the season. It wasn’t as rosy in D.C. in the most recent meeting with the Caps, though, as he was beaten for 6 goals on just 25 shots in the wild 7-6 SOL.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Capitals at Hurricanes picks and predictions

Prediction

Hurricanes 5, Capitals 2

Moneyline

The Hurricanes (-275) will cost you more than 2 1/2 times your potential return, and that’s way too much risk and not enough reward.

Carolina lost to Washington last time these teams met in a wild affair, and that should serve as a cautionary tale why you should never bet heavy favorites.

PASS, and look to the puck line instead.

Puck line/Against the spread

The HURRICANES -1.5 (+105) are a much better value on the puck line. While, yes, they lost to the Capitals +1.5 (-125) in the most recent meeting, Kochetkov has still been pretty hot lately, and Carolina, as a whole, has played well.

The Hurricanes will be especially feisty, and looking to get untracked, after suffering a setback to Boston on home ice Thursday in front of a packed house with a playoff atmosphere, at least at the start of the evening.

Over/Under

OVER 6 (-105) is a decent play in this game, as both defenses could be a little sluggish after having played the night before. Plus, the Over has cashed in each of the past 2 meetings, with the winning side notching at least 6 goals all on their own.

While the Under has cashed in 4 in a row for the Bruins, and the Under is 5-0 in the past 5 outings for the Hurricanes, look to the Over, especially with a shaky Kuemper in the crease for the visitors.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1369]

Pittsburgh Penguins at Washington Capitals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Pittsburgh Penguins at Washington Capitals odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Pittsburgh Penguins (34-30-11) and Washington Capitals (36-28-10) meet Thursday in a key battle for Eastern Conference Wild Card slots. Opening faceoff at Capital One Arena is slated for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Penguins vs. Capitals odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Pittsburgh is coming off a 6-3 triumph as a +151 underdog at the New Jersey Devils Tuesday — the Over (6.5) easily cashed. The Penguins found twine on 6 of 21 shots and have scored 11 goals over their last 2 games.

The Capitals also last played on Tuesday. They filed a 6-2 loss as -121 dogs at the Buffalo Sabres with the Over (6) hitting. Washington heads into Thursday’s tilt looking to snap a 3-game losing streak.

The Caps lead the season series 2-1-0.

Stream the NHL all season on ESPN+, with your team’s out-of-market games, exclusive games, originals and more. Get ESPN+ now!

Penguins at Capitals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 10:34 p.m. ET.

Moneyline: Penguins -110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Capitals -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Penguins +1.5 (-275) | Capitals -1.5 (+220)
Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Penguins at Capitals projected goalies

Tristan Jarry (19-24-5, 2.90 GAA, .903 SV%) vs. Darcy Kuemper (13-13-3, 3.32 GAA, .888 SV%)

Jarry has been out since March 24 with an illness. The veteran netminder had a shaky March, winning just twice in 9 decisions (2-6-1), while logging a lackluster .870 SV%. He has faced the Caps 3 times this season, notching an .854 SV% (41 saves against 48 shots).

Kuemper stopped all 4 shots he faced Tuesday in a 14-minute relief stint in Tuesday’s 6-2 loss at Buffalo. The 33-year-old netminder has only appeared in 3 games since Feb. 27.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Penguins at Capitals picks and predictions

Prediction

Penguins 4, Capitals 3

Moneyline

The Pens are 3-0-1 over their last 4 visits to Capital One Arena.

Pittsburgh is trying to climb out of a hole created by going 3-9-2 from Feb. 29-March 24. The Penguins have looked better of late, going 4-0-1 across their last 5.

Recent games have seen the Pens create solid chances in 5-on-5 play, but actual scoring in such situations has lagged behind.

TAKE PITTSBURGH (-110).

Puck line/Against the spread

PASS: Better leverage can be found on the ML.

Over/Under

The Over is 8-3 in Pittsburgh’s last 11 games and 5-1 in the Penguins’ last 6 games on road ice. The Over is also 8-3 in Washington’s last 11 games at home.

The netminders for both sides have been leaky of late, and the Penguins offense has some undervalue lean to it.

FanDuel Sportsbook has the best offering here: BACK OVER 5.5 (-122).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1369]

Carolina Hurricanes at Washington Capitals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Carolina Hurricanes at Washington Capitals odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Carolina Hurricanes (44-20-6) take on the Washington Capitals (33-26-9) Friday at Capital One Arena. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. ET (NHL Network). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Hurricanes vs. Capitals odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Carolina is on the back end of a back-to-back after gutting out a 3-2 OT win against the Philadelphia Flyers Thursday night. C Seth Jarvis sent the crowd home happy with a goal nearly 90 seconds into the extra frame. Jarvis is on a heater with goals in 5 straight and 6 of 7. LW Teuvo Teravainen has missed action with an upper body ailment, so the added offense has been needed.

The Caps are still hanging around, 3 points out of a Wild Card spot. They’re coming off a 7-3 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs Wednesday. The setback snapped a 3-game winning streak. LW Alex Ovechkin netted 2 goals against Toronto and has 5 goals in his last 3 games to give him 23 on the season.

Stream the NHL all season on ESPN+, with your team’s out-of-market games, exclusive games, originals and more. Get ESPN+ now!

Hurricanes at Capitals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:10 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Hurricanes -200 (bet $200 to win $100) | Capitals +165 (bet $100 to win $165)
Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Hurricanes -1.5 (+125) | Capitals +1.5 (-155)
Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Hurricanes at Capitals projected goalies

Pyotr Kochetkov (19-12-3, 2.36 GAA, .913 SV%, 3 SO) vs. Darcy Kuemper (13-13-3, 3.29 GAA, .890 SV%, 1 SO)

Kochetkov was great in a 4-1 win over the New York Islanders Tuesday. He stopped 30 of 31 shots fired his way. He’s 3-2-0 with a 2.43 GAA and .921 SV% in 5 starts this month. He allowed 4 goals in 2 of those games and combined to allow 4 in the other 3 combined.

Kuemper was bodied for 7 goals on 37 shots in a 7-2 loss to the Edmonton Oilers Wednesday. He has allowed 3+ goals in 5 straight starts, which is the primary reason he has been relegated to backup duty. He was victorious in a 2-1 shootout finish Dec. 17 against Carolina and stopped 28 of 29.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Hurricanes at Capitals picks and predictions

Prediction

Hurricanes 4, Capitals 2

Moneyline

The Canes have won 5 straight and 8 of 9, but they’re on a back-to-back, and there’s no way I’d consider their -200 ML.

Instead, I’m going to take a chance here. Ovechkin has 5 goals in 3 games, and 3 of those came on the power play over the last 2. ALEX OVECHKIN OVER 0.5 POWER-PLAY POINTS (+250) gives you the insurance of an assist in case he doesn’t net one. The Canes are 12th in PIMs in the league, and it’s worth the shot for 2½ times your wager.

Puck line/Against the spread

I usually shy away from the puck line, because at this point of the season, the odds are so juiced that you incur more risk than reward. The Canes have won 8 of 10, and 6 of those were by multiple goals. They’ve had 2 back-to-back scenarios in this window, and they answered on the back end with 7-2 wins each time.

Take the HURRICANES -1.5 (+125).

Over/Under

We’re projecting a push here, so I’m going to another profitable prop.

As mentioned, Jarvis has goals in 5 straight games and 6 during the stretch. So, he’s feeling it. Now, he scored on his only SOG Thursday, but he has 3+ shots in 3 of his last 5 games. Take SETH JARVIS OVER 2.5 SHOTS (+130) or his anytime goal prop is at +210.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Ryan Dodson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1369]

Toronto Maple Leafs at Washington Capitals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Toronto Maple Leafs at Washington Capitals odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Toronto Maple Leafs (38-20-9) travel to meet the Washington Capitals (33-26-8) at Wells Fargo Center Tuesday. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Maple Leafs vs. Capitals odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Season series: Maple Leafs lead 1-0; Toronto won 4-1 on Oct. 24 at Capital One Arena

The Maple Leafs suffered a 4-3 loss against the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday, snapping an 8-game winning streak in the series. Toronto has suffered back-to-back losses for the 1st time since it dropped 3 in a row from Jan. 13-16.

The Capitals have picked up 3 consecutive victories, including a 5-2 win Monday against the Calgary Flames. Washington outscored the competition 9-4 in the 3-game win streak, and each victory came as an underdog. The Under is 4-2-1 in the past 7 games.

Stream the NHL all season on ESPN+, with your team’s out-of-market games, exclusive games, originals and more. Get ESPN+ now!

Maple Leafs at Capitals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:46 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Maple Leafs -145 (bet $145 to win $100) | Capitals +120 (bet $100 to win $120)
Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Maple Leafs -1.5 (+170) | Capitals +1.5 (-210)
Over/Under: 6 (O: -120 | U: +100)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Maple Leafs at Capitals projected goalies

Joseph Woll (9-7-1, 2.89 GAA, .911 SV%) vs. Darcy Kuemper (13-13-3, 3.29 GAA, .890 SV%, 1 SO)

Woll is likely to get the starting nod after Ilya Samsonov allowed 4 goals on 30 shots in a loss in Philadelphia. The Toronto backup has allowed 4 goals in each of his 2 March starts, which are losses at home and on the road against the Boston Bruins.

Kuemper was tuned up for 7 goals on 37 shots in a 7-2 road loss against the Edmonton Oilers last time out on Wednesday. He has allowed 3 or more goals in each of his past 6 starts. He suffered a loss on Oct. 24 in D.C. against the Leafs, allowing 4 goals on just 17 shots.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Maple Leafs at Capitals picks and predictions

Prediction

Capitals 4, Maple Leafs 3

For the Leafs, the Over has connected in 3 consecutive outings, with the Leafs going for 4.3 goals per game in the span, while coughing up 3.7 GPG. That’s a good recipe for plenty of Over results.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1369]