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 Washington Capitals and the Boston Bruins.
NHL Predictions: Washington Capitals vs Boston Bruins
Colorado Avalanche vs Florida Panthers
Head to Head: Avalanche 0-1 Panthers
The first game on our NHL Predictions is a rematch from earlier this season. Earlier in the year the Florida Panthers defeated the Colorado Avalanche in Denver. Colorado is coming off a lopsided loss to Tampa Bay, whereas Florida won their last match.
Both teams are fighting for playoff position which should make for a great game. Colorado will have to do this without star defenseman Cale Makar as he is out with a concussion. Sergei Bobrovsky has been stellar in his last five starts, which is something to watch for.
Prediction: Panthers defeat Avalanche 5-2
Columbus Blue Jackets vs Toronto Maple Leafs
Head to Head: Blue Jackets 0-0 Maple Leafs
The next game on the NHL Predictions features one of the best teams in hockey against one of the worst. In a race for Connor Bedard, the Columbus Blue Jackets take on the Toronto Maple Leafs. Tonight’s game is the second of a home-and-home series between the two clubs.
This game is as lopsided as any. When it comes to star power there is no shortage for the Leafs. The ability to score a lot of goals will do wonders against a Blue Jackets club that allows the third most goals. As much as we praise the offence, they’ve allowed the sixth-fewest goals at 5v5.
Prediction: Maple Leafs defeat Blue Jackets 5-1
New York Rangers vs Carolina Hurricanes
Head to Head: Rangers 1-0 Hurricanes
Our next game on the NHL Predictions is a crucial division matchup. Vincent Trocheck makes his return to PNC Arena as the New York Rangers take on the Carolina Hurricanes. Carolina has had the week off and this is their first game action since the break.
This will be the second game for newcomer Vladimir Tarasenko in Ranger blue. However, the Carolina deep blue line should be ready for the challenge. Carolina is the best puck-possession team. But it will be interesting to see if the long rest helped them or hurt them in their first game back.
Prediction: Rangers defeat Hurricanes 4-3
Washington Capitals vs Boston Bruins
Head to Head: Capitals 0-1 Bruins
Our featured matchup on our NHL Predictions is a heavyweight battle. The Boston Bruins take on the Washington Capitals. These two teams met earlier in the year with the Bruins winning the first meeting.
This game features some of the best goal-scorers in the game. Alex Ovechkin is chasing history, and David Pastrnak is third in the league in goals. An absolute treat for hockey fans everywhere.
Both teams have had a long break and haven’t played since the end of January. It will be interesting to see how they both play once the puck drops. Sometimes the break can do team justice, but can also have the opposite effect.
Prediction: Bruins defeat Capitals 3-2.
Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski – USA TODAY Sports
