The NHL Playoffs continue tonight when the Washington Capitals take on the New York Rangers in an Eastern Conference matchup. The game is scheduled for a 7:30 p.m. start time and it will be televised nationally on NBC Sports Network. Currently the betting odds for the game have the Capitals listed as a small favorite to get the job done.
Washington and New York each picked up a victory inside Madison Square Garden in the opening two games of the series. With the Capitals stealing home-ice advantage in impressive fashion in Game 1, the next two games become critical for both teams. Washington was very solid in the opening series on their own ice, winning three of the four games played there. During the regular season they weren't the best, though, going 23-13-5, which was the ninth-best home record of any team in the Eastern Conference.
The Rangers, on the other hand, were awesome away from their own building. New York had the best record in the league on the road at 28-11-2. In the first round against Pittsburgh the Rangers won both games hosted by the Penguins, which quickly ended the series.
Alex Ovechkin is playing much better this post season for the Capitals. Stars need to be impactful for teams looking to advance in the post season and Ovechkin, who is one of the best players on the planet, hasn't gotten the Capitals past the second round in his career. Washington can take a really nice step forward tonight if they are able to win.
Both Henrik Lundqvist and Braden Holtby are playing well in net for their respective teams. Holtby has allowed just 14 goals in eight games for the Capitals, Lundqvist has allowed just 12 goals to opponents in the seven games the Rangers have played so far. If they continue to play well in between the pipes, this series will continue to be a great one.
Tonight, Washington picks up a close win on their own ice.
Free Pick: Washington
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