Main Photo: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
Welcome back to another day of NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are happening and gives our predictions for each one, breaking down head-to-head and other factors that may play in. We also have a featured game of the day, which is considered must-watch TV. Today’s featured game is between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Washington Capitals.
NHL Predictions
Chicago Blackhawks vs Montreal Canadiens
Head to Head: Blackhawks 0 – 1 Canadiens
Our first game on the NHL Predictions lists an original six-matchup. The Montreal Canadiens host the Chicago Blackhawks. Kirby Dach got to silence the Chicago crowd last matchup and has provided much joy to the Montreal faithful.
After dropping four in a row, Montreal has won its last two games in electrifying fashion. Both teams are in the run for Connor Bedard at this given rate and both are selling at the trade deadline. Each fan base is hoping they lose for better odds, but someone has to win.
Prediction: Canadiens defeat Blackhawks 4-3
New Jersey Devils vs Columbus Blue Jackets
Head to Head: Devils 1 – 0 Blue Jackets
The first meeting between these two teams was a lopsided affair in Newark. Our next game on the NHL Predictions had the Columbus Blue Jackets hosting the New Jersey Devils in a rematch from that game.
New Jersey still remains without Jack Hughes, but that has not slowed them down. In his absence, the team has gone 1-0-1 showing signs they can secure victories without him. Despite Columbus being an injury-riddled basement dweller, they did beat Toronto the other night. Anything is possible, but New Jersey is a better team all around.
Prediction: Devils defeat Blue Jackets 4-1
Ottawa Senators vs New York Islanders
Head to Head: Senators 1 – 1 Islanders
The next game on the NHL Predictions sees a team looking to redeem themselves. After dropping the game in overtime, the New York Islanders return home to take on the Ottawa Senators. New York won the first meeting between the two, and Ottawa the second.
With playoff implications on the line, New York has dropped the last two games to teams well out of the picture. However, Lou Lamoriello has to at least be pleased with his prized acquisition. Since joining the team, Bo Horvat has three goals and four points in four games. Ottawa is not a slouch to play against. They’ve gone 4-1 in their last five and could look to spoil the Islanders playoff hopes. However, with both goalies injured, and having played last night, Ottawa may be in tough.
Prediction: Islanders defeat Senators 5-2
Carolina Hurricanes vs Washington Capitals
Head to Head: Hurricanes 1 – 0 Capitals
Our featured game on the NHL Predictions is a Metropolitan Division showdown. This is the first of two meetings this week as the Carolina Hurricanes take on the Washington Capitals. Both teams returned from the break, each having 10 days off. They ended up with different results, but every point matters in this division.
The stars will shine brightly in the Nation’s Capital. A pair of Russian star wingers in Alex Ovechkin and Andrei Svechnikov will go head to head. Carolina is one of the best 5v5 teams in hockey and does not give you much. However, each team is neck and neck in goals scored at 5v5 making this an intriguing matchup. Both teams remain middle of the pack on the power play, but penalty killing is the difference maker.
It all comes down to who is the better 5v5 team, but after a whooping at home Carolina will be looking to taste victory once again.
Prediction: Hurricanes defeat Capitals 4-3
