Early 2022 predictions for Nic Dowd

We’re getting closer to the end of our Washington Capitals early player predictions. Today we’ll predict how Nic Dowd will do. Believe it or not, Judge Judy enters his fifth season with the Capitals. He’s one of those new guys that came after the Cup run that I would love to see get a ring someday.

Over the course of those four seasons, Dowd has played in 240 games recording 36 goals and 40 assists for 76 points. He also had two great seasons the last two years.

During the pandemic shortened 56 game 2021 season Dowd scored a career high 11 goals and added four assists for 15 points. Last season Dowd recorded a career high of 24 points with 10 goals and 14 assists in 64 games.

The Caps fourth line had been known to be buzzing and Dowd has been a central piece of that fourth line. But things could be different to start the season. Carl Hagelin might not be ready yet as he’s still recovering from an eye injury.

If Hagelin is unable to be cleared to play in time for opening night, Axel Jonsson Fjallby could be in his place. To Dowd’s right side will be his fellow podcast bro Garnet Hathaway and honestly the Caps should try to bring that podcast back this season.

Dowd has also been excellent at winning face offs especially the last two seasons. He won 56.3 percent of his draws in 2021 and 53.7 percent of his draws last season.

The Caps extended Nic Dowd in November of last season because of his durability and consistency. He’s the ideal bottom six center to have on your team and more importantly he’s a nice guy. I had the chance to meet him three years ago at a beer tasting with the Caps event and talking to him felt like I was talking to a bro.

So with that said how does Dowd do this season? I think he scores 12 goals and adds 16 assists for a new career high of 28 points.