Breaking down potential Capitals round one opponents

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Ryan Kerrigan, T.J. Oshie, Washington Capitals Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

The Washington Capitals will need to win out in New York beginning tonight against the New York Islanders. Tomorrow night they take on the Rangers in what could very well be a round one preview. If they lose out and the Pittsburgh Penguins win tomorrow night against the Columbus Blue Jackets, they will play the President’s Trophy winning Florida Panthers.

You never want to wish to play a particular opponent. And both teams are tough matchups. But it’s also the Stanley Cup playoffs. A time where anything can happen. The Caps hope the hockey gods will be in their favor and get the bounces they need no matter who they face.

Although the Caps will start the postseason on the road, they’ve played well all season away from Capital One Arena. With a. 25-8-6 record, they have the highest road points percentage in the NHL at .718.

Over the last five seasons, that’s the second highest road points percentage in a season, only behind the 2018-19 Tampa Bay Lightning (.756). Washington’s 3.54 goals per road game ranks fourth in the NHL, while their 2.74 allowed goals per game is the fifth lowest in the NHL.

Now let’s break down the potential Caps first round opponents one by one beginning with the Florida Panthers.

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