I swear, the Washington Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins face off so often these Caps might as well start paying Pennsylvania state taxes. Let's see though if their money's where their mouth is this time.
Starting in net, we've got Charlie Lindgren with a plucky 92.1% season save rate for the Caps. His comrade in arms, Logan Thompson, is close behind at 91.1%. For the Penguins, Tristan Jarry is standing tall between the pipes with a 91.9% clip for the season, and Alex Nedeljkovic isn't doing too shabby either at 89.4%.
Puckin' around on the ice, we've got some big names. Alex Ovechkin, Tom Wilson, and Dylan Strome are leading the charge for the Capitals, although Strome had a bit of a dip last month. Same can't be said about Sidney Crosby, Bryan Rust, and Rickard Rakell of the Penguins, who've been giving the Capitals a run for their money.
Pittsburgh historically has a tendency to make an omelette out of Caps, but recent match-ups have seen Washington turn that egg on its face with convincing victories.
Let's visit Regular Season Avenue. Capitals were on a joy ride, sitting pretty with a 51-9-21 record. On the other hand, the Penguins might've had a flat tire or two, stuttering to a 33-12-36.
Recently, the Capitals seem to be in the mood for some roller coaster action with their results, Pittsburgh isn't far behind either with the Penguins on a similar ride.
But folks, don't let the past cloud your judgement. Remember, lightning seldom strikes the same place twice. Unless it's Tampa Bay. But that's another story.
Considering all factors, here's my two cents. Washington Capitals have been the keener team this season and head-to-head, they've shown they can leave their opposition eating their snow.
Albert’s Prediction: Washington Capitals by 2