#1 If you get a lead, protect it
Sounds easy but not when you’re this year’s version of the Capitals. But if they kill their penalties they’ll have a good chance at winning. The Caps have killed off 44 of 50 opposing power plays over their last 20 games dating back to Jan. 16. That’s 88 percent.
The Capitals’ 82.7 penalty kill percentage this season ranks seventh in the NHL through games played March 7. Per Natural Stat Trick, the Capitals have allowed the sixth fewest shots on goal (262) while shorthanded this season.
The Caps are sixth in the NHL when it comes to losses when leading by at least a goal with five. One time it happened in overtime. Two times the Caps lost when they led by two goals. Three times the Caps lost a two goal lead in overtime.
While those aren’t tops in the NHL they aren’t good either and these are all games that the Caps should have won. Had they won those games we could be talking about tonight’s game as a battle for first or second in the Metropolitan Division.
Instead we’re talking about this game as a win or go home for one team and win and get in good position for the other. For info on how to watch and bet on the game click here.