Here are today’s NHL Game Day Predictions. Daily, Last Word on Hockey brings you a prediction and analysis of every game on the schedule. This will also feature a significant game on the schedule that is must-watch hockey. Today’s featured game is the Philadelphia Flyers vs Pittsburgh Penguins.
Be sure to check out the late game slate here.
NHL Predictions
Carolina Hurricanes vs. Vegas Golden Knights
Head-to-Head: Hurricanes 0-0 Golden Knights
The Carolina Hurricanes have increased up to 61 points, a 29-18-3 record, and fifth place in the Metropolitan Division. Their last outing was a successful 4-1 win over the Winnipeg Jets. While Carolina is only slightly above-average offensively, they’re among the league’s elite when it comes to keeping the puck out of the net. Carolina’s won five out of their past eight games. Jaccob Slavin is one of the team’s most important players, evident by his recent All-Star appearance and 23 points in addition to elite defensive ability.
The Vegas Golden Knights, on the other hand, have struggled considerably. They’re at a very subpar 25-20-7 record, 57 points, and fourth place in the Pacific Division. Their last game was a 3-2 loss to the Boston Bruins. They’ve regressed to league average in terms of offence and defence, and hope is fading fast for the VGK faithful. They only have one win in their past seven games. All-Star Max Pacioretty continues to lead his team, posting 47 points in 52 games.
Prediction: Carolina wins 2-0.
Detroit Red Wings vs New York Rangers
Head to Head: Red Wings 0-1 Rangers
As awful as it sounds, Detroit Red Wings fans should just start looking forward to the draft and possibly having Alexis Lafreniere on their roster. This team has been abysmal in terms of ability to compete with other teams and things will not get much better, especially without Anthony Mantha. When, and if, he comes back, this team should be able to compete more effectively. For now, they are stuck at the bottom of the standings and the bus to the top is in neutral
Jacob Trouba and Artemi Panarin have given the New York Rangers a much-needed boost. Trouba has played well enough to fill in the gap left behind by the Ryan McDonagh trade and Panarin is having a career year with the Blueshirts. Kaapo Kakko has not quite been the stud forward people were hoping for out of the gate, but the rookie still has plenty of time to develop.
Prediction: Rangers win 5-1
Philadelphia Flyers vs Pittsburgh Penguins
Head to Head: Flyers 1-1 Penguins
The Battle of Pennsylvania is on for round three this season and the fireworks should be as present as ever. Brian Elliott stole the show last time these two met, making 19 saves in a shutout. While another shutout is unlikely, a strong showing from the Philadelphia Flyers will be evident. They are well-rested, having not played for 10 days, and should give the Penguins everything they can handle.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are primed for another run at the Stanley Cup. The goaltending tandem might just be enough to get them to the top spot in the east before the season ends. Tristan Jarry and Matt Murray have both played well this season. Jarry, in particular, has had a bit of a breakout year and is showing everyone he is capable of being the guy in goal for any team. No matter who gets the start in net tonight, expect stellar play.
Prediction: Penguins win 4-2
Washington Capitals vs Ottawa Senators
Head to Head: Capitals 1-0 Senators
The D.C. sports scene was bleak for a long time. The Washington Capitals changed that in 2018 with the franchise’s first Stanley Cup Championship. The Caps reputation of regular-season dominance and postseason failures came to an end with that title. This is a team that is still hungry and ready to win. They are certainly primed to be one of the best as they sit at the top of the Eastern Conference.
The Ottawa Senators are in a similar situation to Detroit. They have a handful of talented players and are looking forward to the offseason. It will surely be a busy one for the front office, as only eight players on the current NHL roster are signed past the end of this year. A major rebuild is on the way. Brady Tkachuk and Thomas Chabot will surely be the centrepieces of this turnover and Ottawa will hope to land several key assets.
Prediction: Capitals win 3-0
That does it for today’s NHL Predictions. Be sure to check back tomorrow for another slate of games.
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