Tag: Washington Capitals betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets

Boston Bruins at Washington Capitals odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Tuesday’s Boston Bruins at Washington Capitals odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Boston Bruins (33-15-7) wrap up the regular season against the Washington Capitals (35-15-5) Tuesday. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET at Capital One Arena. Below, we analyze the Bruins-Capitals odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Bruins picked up a 3-2 overtime win against the New York Islanders on Monday, and now they have the quick turnaround on the road against the Capitals.

As luck has it, these two teams will meet each other in the first round of the playoffs, too.

The Capitals earned a 2-1 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers in overtime on Saturday in a well-played game with a pair of backup goaltenders.

Washington has had some COVID and injury issues lately, but they have still persevered with three wins in the past four outings.

Bruins at Capitals: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 4:25 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Bruins -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | Capitals -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Bruins +1.5 (-275) | Capitals -1.5 (+220)
  • Over/Under: 6 (O: +100 | U: -120)

Bruins at Capitals: Projected starting goalies

Jeremy Swayman (7-2-0, 1.44 GAA, .946 SV%, 2 SO) vs. Vitek Vanecek (20-10-4, 2.74 GAA, .907 SV%, 2 SO)

Swayman stopped all 15 shots on goal in a 4-0 shutout win over the New York Rangers his last start in the crease (May 6).

The 22-year-old rookie netminder is 1-0 this season vs. the Capitals and saved 31 of 33 shots in Boston’s 4-2 win in Washington April 8.

Vanecek lost in regulation for the first time in five starts in a 4-2 loss to the Flyers on Friday.

Still, he has allowed three or fewer goals in three straight starts. He is 3-3-0 with a 3.19 GAA and .897 SV% in six starts against the B’s this season.

Special NHL Betting Promotion!

Bet $1 on either team’s money line, WIN $100 (in free bets) if either team scores a goal in the game. Betting offer available in CO, IA, IN, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA and WV. Place your legal, online bets at BetMGM. New customer offer, terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Bruins at Capitals: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Capitals 2, Bruins 1

Money line (ML)

The CAPITALS (-110) are worth a look on home ice against the Bruins (-105) in what is essentially a meaningless game. Washington has the home-ice advantage, and is the No. 2 seed, while Boston is locked in at No. 3.

Neither team is likely to show much, as they dial it back and get ready for Game 1 of the playoffs on Saturday. Go lightly on the home side here.

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

Against the spread (ATS)

The Bruins +1.5 (-275) would cost you nearly three times your potential return if you wanted a little insurance, and that’s crazy risk for no real reason.

On the flip side, playing the Capitals -1.5 (+220) is tempting, but they still have several players nursing lower-body injuries, including Alex Ovechkin and Tom Wilson, and there is no reason for them to risk it by playing.

AVOID.

Over/Under (O/U)

UNDER 6 (-120) is the best play on the board here. While the series trends suggest an Over play, with the Over 3-0-1 in the past four and 7-3-1 in the past 11 meetings in D.C., this is a unique game in that neither side is likely to be skating all out.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

New York Islanders at Washington Capitals odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Tuesday’s New York Islanders at Washington Capitals NHL odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The New York Islanders (29-14-5) travel to play the Washington Capitals (31-13-4) Tuesday with a 7 p.m. ET puck drop at Capital One Arena. Below, we analyze the Islanders-Capitals odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Islanders dropped two in a row at home to the Capitals, falling 1-0 in a shootout Thursday and losing 6-3 Saturday. New York scored 6 goals April 20 against the New York Rangers but has posted a total of just 19 goals across its past 10 outings.

The Capitals won each of the two games on the Island as short underdogs. Washington won six of its previous eight outings while the Over is 8-1 across the past nine contests.

Islanders at Capitals: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 1 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Islanders +100 (bet $100 to win $100) | Capitals -120 (bet $120 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Islanders +1.5 (-275) | Capitals -1.5 (+230)
  • Over/Under: 5.5 (O: +100 | U: -120)

Islanders at Capitals: Projected starting goalies

Semyon Varlamov (17-9-4, 2.12 GAA, .926 SV%, 5 SO) vs. Vitek Vanecek (17-9-3, 2.77 GAA, .908 SV%, 1 SO)

Varlamov was on the short end of the 1-0 shootout loss Thursday, posting 28 saves. He is still credited with the shutout, his second in the past five starts, both against Washington. Varly is 2-3-1 with a 2.50 GAA and .906 SV% in six games against the Caps this season.

Vanecek will face the Islanders for the fifth time this season. He is 2-1-0 with a .929 SV% and 2.47 GAA. He has allowed 8 goals on 112 shots in the head-to-head matchup.

Special NHL Betting Promotion!

Bet $1 on either team’s money line, WIN $100 (in free bets) if either team scores a goal in the game. Betting offer available in CO, IA, IN, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA and WV. Place your legal, online bets at BetMGM. New customer offer, terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Islanders at Capitals: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Capitals 3, Islanders 2

Money line (ML)

The CAPITALS (-120) pushed around the Islanders over the last week in New York, and they should be able to protect home ice and get it done again.

The Isles are a dismal 1-5 across their past six games as road underdogs, and they’re 1-4 in their previous five against teams with a winning record.

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

Against the spread (ATS)

The Islanders +1.5 (-275) are a risk of nearly three times your potential return, and that’s just not very good insurance. They were doubled up at home last time out against the Caps.

PASS.

Over/Under (O/U)

UNDER 5.5 (-120) is a good bet.

The Under is 8-2-1 across the past 11 games for the Islanders, with the Under edging the Over 4-3 in the previous seven meetings this season. The Over is 8-1 in the past nine games for the Caps, so I’d go lightly on this one.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Buffalo Sabres at Washington Capitals odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Thursday’s Buffalo Sabres at Washington Capitals NHL odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Buffalo Sabres (10-25-7) visit the Washington Capitals (28-11-4) Thursday for a 7 p.m. ET puck drop at Capital One Arena. Below, we analyze the Sabres-Capitals odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Capitals enter the day with a tenuous hold on first place in the ultra-competitive East Division. They’ve won three straight games and outscored the Boston Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers by a total of 14-2 in their last two outings.

Buffalo is a surprising 3-2-1 across its last six games but remains buried in last place in the East. The Sabres fell 3-2 in a shootout to the Boston Bruins Tuesday.

Sabres at Capitals: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:11 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Sabres +270 (bet $100 to win $270) | Capitals -300 (bet $300 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Sabres +1.5 (+100) | Capitals -1.5 (-125)
  • Over/Under: 5.5 (O: -120 | U: +105)

Sabres at Capitals: Projected starting goalies

Dustin Tokarski (0-4-2, .905 SV%, 3.54 GAA) at Ilya Samsonov (10-3-1, .899 SV%, 2.83 GAA)

A start by Tokarski would give him his most since the 2014-15 campaign. The 31-year-old stopped 29 of 31 shots in getting the Sabres to the shootout against the Bruins Tuesday. He allowed 4 goals on 33 shots in his previous outing, also against the Caps.

Samsonov allowed just one goal on 30 shots in the win over the Flyers. He had allowed 18 total goals over his previous four outings but managed to go 2-2 despite his .843 SV%.

Special NHL Betting Promotion!

Bet $1 on either team’s money line, WIN $100 (in free bets) if either team scores a goal in the game. Betting offer available in CO, IA, IN, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA and WV. Place your legal, online bets at BetMGM. New customer offer, terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Sabres at Capitals: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Capitals 6, Sabres 1

Money line (ML)

There’s no case to be made for the Sabres to win this game and a bet on them is wasted money. Still, the -300 price for the Capitals is far too chalky of a bet on a regular-season NHL game.

Buffalo beat Washington 4-3 in a shootout Jan. 24 and has two other 1-goal losses in the season series but don’t go chasing ghosts.

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

Against the spread (ATS)

The Caps have 18 more wins than the Sabres on the season and just throttled two teams much better than the Sabres following a 4-3 win in the last head-to-head meeting.

CAPITALS -1.5 (-125) is a fine bet, but the value is on CAPITALS -2.5 (+135) on the alternate line.

Over/Under (O/U)

Bet the OVER 5.5 (-125) or OVER 6.5 (+125).

The Sabres are without their top two netminders and the season series is already 4-2-1 against the number.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @EstenMcLaren on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Philadelphia Flyers at Washington Capitals odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Tuesday’s Philadelphia Flyers at Washington Capitals NHL odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Philadelphia Flyers (19-16-6) visit the Washington Capitals (27-11-4) Tuesday with a 7 p.m. ET puck drop at Capital One Arena. Below, we analyze the Flyers-Capitals odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Flyers are looking to rebound after an embarrassing 5-3 loss to the Buffalo Sabres Sunday. They have dropped three of their past four games, and five of their previous seven. Philadelphia has dropped three straight meetings with Washington, too, getting outscored 13-8.

The Capitals roughed up the Boston Bruins 8-1 on the road Sunday, and they have won each of their past two games after dropping a pair of games April 6 and 8. The Caps have cashed the Over in three straight games, and in seven of their previous nine.

Flyers at Capitals: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:45 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Flyers +135 (bet $100 to win $135) | Capitals -155 (bet $155 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Flyers +1.5 (-185) | Capitals -1.5 (+150)
  • Over/Under: 6 (O: -120 | U: +100)

Flyers at Capitals: Projected starting goalies

Carter Hart (8-11-5, 3.79 GAA, .872 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Ilya Samsonov (9-3-1, 2.97 GAA, .894 SV%, 1 SO)

Hart has been in a nosedive and has dropped each of his past seven starts with his last win coming on the road against the New York Islanders March 18. He has posted a 1-2-0 record, 3.63 GAA and .883 SV% in three appearances against the Capitals.

Samsonov has coughed up four or more goals in each of his past four appearances but is 2-2 in that span. While he has been struggling lately, facing the Flyers might snap him out of it. He is 3-0-0 with a 2.67 GAA and .922 SV% in three starts against Philadelphia this season.

Special NHL Betting Promotion!

Bet $1 on either team’s money line, WIN $100 (in free bets) if either team scores a goal in the game. Betting offer available in CO, IA, IN, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA and WV. Place your legal, online bets at BetMGM. New customer offer, terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Flyers at Capitals: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Capitals 5, Flyers 3

Money line (ML)

The CAPITALS (-155) are a good bet at a moderate price. The Flyers have been an absolute disaster lately, including two losses to the cellar-dwelling Sabres across their past seven outings since March 31.

The Caps have won three straight in this series, and they routed the Bruins 8-1 last time out.

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

Against the spread (ATS)

The CAPITALS -1.5 (+150) are worth playing, although you should play lightly.

While the Caps routed the B’s by 7 goals last time out, four of their past five wins were by just one goal. On a positive note, two of their three wins against Philly were by 2 or more goals.

Over/Under (O/U)

OVER 6 (-120) is a great play. Hart has been very shaky lately, and Samsonov has allowed 4 or more goals in four consecutive outings.

These goalies have been very giving, and we should see well in excess of 6 total goals.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Washington Capitals at Boston Bruins odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Sunday’s Washington Capitals at Boston Bruins NHL odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Washington Capitals (26-11-4) visit the Boston Bruins (21-11-6) Sunday with a 7 p.m. ET puck drop at TD Garden. Below, we analyze the Capitals-Bruins odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Capitals scratched out a 4-3 road win against the Buffalo Sabres on Friday night, snapping a two-game mini skid. That slide included a 4-2 loss against goaltender Jeremy Swayman and the Bruins in D.C. on Thursday.

The Bruins have had third- and fourth-string goalies Swayman and Dan Vladar keeping them afloat while Tuukka Rask is sidelined due to injury and Jaroslav Halak is out due to COVID.

The B’s are 2-1-1 across the past four, posting at least one point in three of those games.

Capitals at Bruins: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:35 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Capitals -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | Bruins -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Capitals +1.5 (-300) | Bruins -1.5 (+230)
  • Over/Under: 5.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Capitals at Bruins: Projected starting goalies

Ilya Samsonov (9-3-1, 2.97 GAA, .894 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Dan Vladar (2-1-1, 2.25 GAA, .922 SV%)

Samsonov is looking to bounce back after dropping a 4-2 decision against the Bruins at home on Thursday.

He allowed four goals on 32 shots, and he has coughed up four or more goals in each of his past four starts. He is 0-1-0 with a 3.66 GAA and .872 SV% in one start and one relief appearance against the Bruins this season.

Vladar has dropped each of his past two starts, although he has allowed three or fewer goals in each of his four starts to date.

The B’s have not provided much offense for him, averaging just 2.0 goals per outing in his four appearances this season.

Special NHL Betting Promotion!

Bet $1 on either team’s money line, WIN $100 (in free bets) if either team scores a goal in the game. Betting offer available in CO, IA, IN, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA and WV. Place your legal, online bets at BetMGM. New customer offer, terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Capitals at Bruins: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Capitals 4, Bruins 2

Money line (ML)

The CAPITALS (-105) have cashed in 11 of their past 15 games on the road while going 4-1 in the past five against teams with a winning record.

They’re also playing the third game in four days, and they’re 6-0 in the past six in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation.

For the Bruins (-115), they haven’t fared well in back-to-back situations, going just 2-6 in their past eight games playing on no rest.

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

Against the spread (ATS)

The Capitals +1.5 (-300) will cost you three times your potential return if you’re looking for insurance. Instead, look to the alternate line and take the CAPITALS -1.5 (+260) for a chance to more than double up.

Over/Under (O/U)

OVER 5.5 (-115) is the lean in this one. Samsonov has been more than giving lately, and the Over is 6-2-1 in the past nine road games for the Caps. The Over is also 4-1-1 in their past six as a road underdog.

For the B’s, the recent team trends all point to the Under, although the Over is 3-1-1 in their past five tries against the Caps.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Washington Capitals at New York Islanders odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Tuesday’s Washington Capitals at New York Islanders NHL odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Washington Capitals (25-9-4) travel to meet the New York Islanders (24-10-4) Tuesday with a 7 p.m. ET puck drop at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum Below, we analyze the Capitals-Islanders odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Capitals won back-to-back games in New Jersey on Friday and Sunday, outscoring the Devils by a 7-5 count in the two outings. Those victories came on the heels of a loss on Thursday in their previous visit to the Islanders, falling 8-4 as short ‘dogs.

The Islanders doubled up the Caps 8-4 on April Fool’s Day, and they snuck by the Flyers 3-2 in a shootout last time out on Saturday behind rookie goaltender Ilya Sorokin. The home side has had a rare two-day break, and they’ll be rested and raring to go.

Capitals at Islanders: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:45 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Capitals +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Islanders -130 (bet $130 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Capitals +1.5 (-200) | Islanders -1.5 (+185)
  • Over/Under: 5.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Capitals at Islanders: Projected starting goalies

Ilya Samsonov (9-2-1, 2.87 GAA, .896 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Semyon Varlamov (15-7-3, 2.26 GAA, .919 SV%, 3 SO)

Samsonov was on the receiving end of that beatdown from the Isles last Thursday, coughing up six goals on 24 shots before getting pulled early in the third period in favor of Vitek Vanecek. He won his other start against the Isles March 16 in D.C., allowing just one goal on 22 shots in a 3-1 win.

Varlamov was the beneficiary of those eight goals against the Caps last time out, needing to make just 18 saves on 22 shots in the easy win. He was on the opposite end of that 3-1 battle against Samsonov on March 16, allowing three goals on 22 shots. He is 1-3-0 with a 3.82 GAA and .854 SV% in four starts against Washington this season.

Special NHL Betting Promotion!

Bet $1 on either team’s money line, WIN $100 (in free bets) if either team scores a goal in the game. Betting offer available in CO, IA, IN, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA and WV. Place your legal, online bets at BetMGM. New customer offer, terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Capitals at Islanders: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Capitals 5, Islanders 4

Money line (ML)

The CAPITALS (+110) are a decent play despite last Thursday’s disaster. The Caps have won 10 of their past 13 games on the road, and they’re 4-1 in the past five against teams with a winning overall record.

The Islanders (-130) won last time out against the Capitals on Thursday, but the Caps are still 6-2 in their past eight trips to the Island, with the underdog 12-4 in the previous 16 meetings.

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

Against the spread (ATS)

The Capitals +1.5 (-200) will cost you two times your potential return, and that’s not a good bet. Just play the underdogs straight up on the money line for a better value.

AVOID.

Over/Under (O/U)

OVER 5.5 (-110) is my favorite play on the board here, especially since we just saw 12 total goals between the two sides in the most recent meeting.

The Over is 5-1-1 in Washington’s past seven road games, and 4-0-1 in their past five as a road ‘dog.

The Over is also 9-1-1 in the past 11 as a home favorite for the Isles, while going 4-0 in their past four when playing on two days of rest.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Washington Capitals at New Jersey Devils odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Sunday’s Washington Capitals at New Jersey Devils NHL odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Washington Capitals (24-9-4) play the back end of a two-game set at the New Jersey Devils (13-16-6) Sunday with a 3 p.m. ET puck drop at Prudential Center. Below, we analyze the Capitals-Devils odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Capitals scratched out a 2-1 overtime win against the Devils Friday, recovering from an 8-4 beatdown at the hands of the New York Islanders Thursday. Washington has been a “Jekyll and Hyde” team lately, winning three in a row, then losing two straight by a combined score of 13-6 before their narrow win Friday.

The Devils have notched points in three straight, going 1-0-2. All three results were one-goal games, and six of their previous seven have been decided by one goal. The Devils have been getting solid defense and goaltending to keep them in games against most teams lately.

Capitals at Devils: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Saturday at 8:29 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Capitals -165 (bet $165 to win $100) | Devils +140 (bet $100 to win $140)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Capitals -1.5 (+155) | Devils +1.5 (-190)
  • Over/Under: 6 (O: -105 | U: -115)

Capitals at Devils: Projected starting goalies

Ilya Samsonov (8-2-1, 2.77 GAA, .896 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Mackenzie Blackwood (9-9-3, 2.82 GAA, .913 SV%, 1 SO)

Samsonov was toasted by the Islanders for six goals on just 24 shots before getting pulled in the third period last time out, easily his worst performance of the season.

The last time he faced New Jersey, however, he turned aside all 24 shots he faced for his only shutout of the season, a 4-0 home win March 26.

Blackwood has come up short in his past two outings, Friday’s 2-1 overtime loss to Washington, and a 5-4 shootout loss at the Boston Bruins Tuesday. But he has made 40 or more saves in each of the past three games, including a 1-0 shutout at Boston March 28.

Special NHL Betting Promotion!

Bet $1 on either team’s money line, WIN $100 (in free bets) if either team scores a goal in the game. Betting offer available in CO, IA, IN, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA and WV. Place your legal, online bets at BetMGM. New customer offer, terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Capitals at Devils: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Capitals 3, Devils 2

Money line (ML)

The CAPITALS (-165) will have just enough to get by the pesky Devils, just like they did Friday. It wouldn’t be surprising to see overtime or a shootout needed again, however.

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

Against the spread (ATS)

The DEVILS +1.5 (-190) are a little more expensive than I am comfortable with, but they’re on home ice and they have just been playing everyone so tough lately.

Six of the past seven games for New Jersey have been decided by just one goal, and Blackwood is playing some tremendous goal lately. Five of the past seven meetings with the Capitals have also been one-goal games, so backing the Devils is a solid play.

Over/Under (O/U)

UNDER 6 (-115) is the way to go. Six goals are just too much to expect in a Caps-Devils matchup. They have faced each other so much that this is almost like a Game 6 or 7 in a playoff series. Each of the past two meetings have gone Under. Goals will be at a premium with two goaltenders playing well.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Washington Capitals at New York Islanders odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Thursday’s Washington Capitals at New York Islanders NHL odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Washington Capitals (23-8-4) take on the New York Islanders (22-10-4) Thursday with a 7 p.m. ET puck drop at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Below, we analyze the Capitals-Islanders odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Capitals are coming off a 5-2 thumping against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden Tuesday. That snapped a three-game win streak which saw them outscore the opposition 13-7. Washington hasn’t dropped back-to-back games since a four-game skid from Feb. 1-14.

The Islanders are looking to recover after a two-game sweep on the road against the Pittsburgh Penguins; they were outscored 8-4. New York returns home for the first time since March 20, when they socked around the Philadelphia Flyers by a 6-1 score. The Islanders haven’t lost three in a row since a five-game slide from Jan. 24-31.

Capitals at Islanders: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:45 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Capitals +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Islanders -130 (bet $130 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Capitals +1.5 (-250) | Islanders -1.5 (+200)
  • Over/Under: 5.5 (O: +105 | U: -125)

Capitals at Islanders: Projected starting goalies

Ilya Samsonov (8-1-1, 2.39 GAA, .908 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Semyon Varlamov (14-7-3, 2.19 GAA, .922 SV%, 3 SO)

Samsonov has won each of his past two outings, and six of his previous seven starts overall. That includes a 3-1 win over the Islanders March 16 when he allowed just one goal on 22 shots. He wrapped up March with a 6-1-0 record, 2.17 GAA and .920 SV% in seven starts and one relief appearance

Varlamov is skidding, losing three of his past four starts, including a 3-1 setback opposite Samsonov March 16. Still, he allowed 3 or fewer goals in seven of his eight starts in March.

Special NHL Betting Promotion!

Bet $1 on either team’s money line, WIN $100 (in free bets) if either team scores a goal in the game. Betting offer available in CO, IA, IN, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA and WV. Place your legal, online bets at BetMGM. New customer offer, terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Capitals at Islanders: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Islanders 4, Capitals 3

Money line (ML)

The ISLANDERS (-130) are a decent value on home ice in this battle between top teams in the East Division. New York has won each of its past five home games following a road trip of seven or more days and is also 13-4 across its past 17 games as a favorite.

While the Capitals have won four of their past five games in this series, and six of their past seven trips to the Island, New York is the play due to its 19-7 record at home across the past 26.

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

Against the spread (ATS)

The Islanders -1.5 (+200) are a tempting play at this price, as it has a chance to double up; however, the Capitals have won four of the past five meetings in this series.

It’s best to AVOID, and focus on the money line which is risky enough.

Over/Under (O/U)

OVER 5.5 (+105) has hit in four of the past six games for the Islanders, and each of their past three on home ice. The Over is also 10-2-1 across the past 13 games at home for the Isles.

The Caps hit the Over in their recent home-and-home with the Rangers, and the Over is 3-1 across their past four overall.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

Washington Capitals at New York Rangers odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Tuesday’s Washington Capitals at New York Rangers NHL odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Washington Capitals (23-7-4) play the second half of a home-and-home with the New York Rangers (15-15-4) Tuesday with a 7 p.m. ET puck drop at Madison Square Garden. Below, we analyze the Capitals-Rangers odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

Capitals at Rangers: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:55 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Capitals -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | Rangers -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Capitals +1.5 (-300) | Rangers -1.5 (+240)
  • Over/Under: 6 (O: -120 | U: +100)

Capitals at Rangers: Projected starting goalies

Ilya Samsonov (8-1-1, 2.39 GAA, .908 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Igor Shesterkin (7-8-1, 2.34 GAA, .924 SV%)

Samsonov picked up the win in Sunday’s 5-4 victory over the Rangers, although he made just 16 saves on 20 shots. It wasn’t pretty, but he has won six of his past seven outings. He was actually better against the Rangers in a loss March 20, when allowing 2 goals on 24 shots.

Shesterkin was on the short end of a 2-1 loss against the Philadelphia Flyers Saturday, and he has allowed 3 or fewer goals in each of his four outings in March. The last time he faced the Caps he allowed just 1 goal on 27 shots Feb. 20 in D.C., and he is 2-0-0 with a 1.50 GAA and .950 SV% in two outings against Washington this season.

Special NHL Betting Promotion!

Bet $1 on either team’s money line, WIN $100 (in free bets) if either team scores a goal in the game. Betting offer available in CO, IA, IN, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA and WV. Place your legal, online bets at BetMGM. New customer offer, terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Capitals at Rangers: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Capitals 4, Rangers 3

Money line (ML)

The CAPITALS (-110) are on a three-game win streak, and they’ve won 10 of their last 11 games.

Yes, the only loss during the span was to the Rangers, but they also have topped New York in two of three meetings during the run. Washington has found its offense with 4.33 goals per game over its last three outings.

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

Against the spread (ATS)

The Capitals +1.5 (-300) would cost you three times your potential return, and there is no reason to ever justify making that bet. Just play the money line if you like the Caps.

PASS.

Over/Under (O/U)

OVER 6 (-120) is the way to go with the Caps.

Washington’s offense has hit its stride again after a bit of a power outage in the middle of the month. The Over has cashed in three of the past four for the Blueshirts, while going 5-2 in the past seven at MSG.

The Over is also 10-3-1 in the past 14 for the Rangers when allowing 5 or more goals in their previous outing.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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

New York Rangers at Washington Capitals odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Sunday’s New York Rangers at Washington Capitals NHL odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The New York Rangers (15-14-4) kick off a two-game set against the Washington Capitals (22-7-4) Sunday with a noon ET puck drop at Capital One Arena. Below, we analyze the Rangers-Capitals odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

Rangers at Capitals: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:04 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Rangers +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Capitals -130 (bet $130 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Rangers +1.5 (-250) | Capitals -1.5 (+200)
  • Over/Under: 6 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Rangers at Capitals: Projected starting goalies

Alexandar Georgiev (5-5-2, 2.92 GAA, .897 SV%, 2 SO) vs. Ilya Samsonov (7-1-1, 2.22 GAA, .917 SV%, 1 SO)

Georgiev allowed just two goals on 18 shots March 19 against the Caps, falling 2-1. That comes on the heels of a 26-save shutout March 17 in a 9-0 win over the Philadelphia Flyers at Madison Square Garden. Georgiev has the hot hand right now for the Blueshirts.

Samsonov posted a shutout of the New Jersey Devils Friday, turning aside all 24 shots he faced. G Vitek Vanecek posted the win in the front end of the back-to-back with the Devils Thursday, but Samsonov will get the nod vs. the Rangers. He has allowed a total of just three goals over his previous three outings, winning two of those starts.

Special NHL Betting Promotion!

Bet $1 on either team’s money line, WIN $100 (in free bets) if either team scores a goal in the game. Betting offer available in CO, IA, IN, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA and WV. Place your legal, online bets at BetMGM. New customer offer, terms and conditions apply. Bet now!

Rangers at Capitals: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Capitals 3, Rangers 2

Money line (ML)

The CAPITALS (-130) are a good play at home against a Rangers side which has been playing with a lot of confidence but also just played a hard-fought game in Philadelphia Saturday. The Rangers lost 2-1, and looked a bit sluggish after playing for the fifth time in nine days. Now, they have a sixth game in 10 days. That’s tough for even the most well-conditions team.

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

Against the spread (ATS)

The Capitals -1.5 (+200) are a tempting play at this price level, but they’re 1-3 against the Rangers +1.5 this season. Their only win over the Blueshirts was by one goal in a 2-1 victory March 19.

PASS.

Over/Under (O/U)

UNDER 6 (-105) is the best play on the board Sunday afternoon. First off, matinee games on the weekend tend to start slowly, and the Under has connected in all four of the previous meetings between these teams. Until the two clubs start ticking off Over results against each other, keep slamming the Under.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

[lawrence-newsletter]

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