Washington Capitals - Toronto Maple Leafs predictions and free betting tips [20/03/2024]

The Washington Capitals and Toronto Maple Leafs are set to face off tomorrow morning as part of the regular NHL championship.

Washington Capitals

The Washington Capitals have shown significant progress this season, garnering three consecutive victories and bolstering their chances for the playoffs. The team is currently in a critical phase, where the next six matches against playoff-participant teams could determine their fate. Following an impressive 5:2 victory over the Calgary Flames, the Capitals temporarily secured a playoff spot, but subsequent results of competitor games fluctuated the standings once more. Presently, Washington sits right behind the playoff zone with a 33-25-9 record.

Team captain and legend Alex Ovechkin continues to significantly contribute to the team's success, scoring three goals in the last two matches and setting a record by scoring over 20 goals in each of his 19 NHL seasons. Currently, Ovechkin holds the lead in terms of goals scored and assists for the Capitals, confirming his status as one of the league's best players. Dylan Strome, another key Capitals player, is also recording career-best results, achieving a new personal best for goals scored in a season

Washington will soon face severe challenges, including matches against Toronto, Carolina, Winnipeg, and Detroit, requiring the team to put forth maximum focus and effort. According to Ovechkin, the team fully understands the importance of each upcoming match and is ready to fight for every point on the path to the playoffs.

Washington's goaltending line also deserves spotlight, with Charlie Lindgren demonstrating excellent performance, establishing his reputation as a reliable goaltender with 18-11-5 stats, averaging 2.59 goals allowed per game and reflecting 91.5% of the shots. The Capitals' success this season significantly depends on the coordinated plays of both the team's main stars and the contribution each player makes to the overall strategy and on-the-ice tactics.

Toronto Maple Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs currently hold a 38-20-9 record collectively granting them 85 points and a confident third place in the Atlantic Division. They are 7 points ahead of Tampa Bay Lightning, despite recent rare back-to-back losses. In their last clash with the Flyers, Toronto managed to cut the score deficit from 0:3 to 3:4, showcasing determination and will to win, regardless of the outcome.

The team has encountered difficulties in defense, particularly in the last few matches, where they allowed multiple goals from opponents. Head Coach Sheldon Keefe expressed dissatisfaction with the team's performance, noting a lack of concentration and inefficiency in defense and puck handling. An important factor for the team is the absence of Mitch Marner due to injury, who holds third place in the team with 76 points. Also, during the game against the Flyers, Ryan Reaves left the ice due to a brawl and did not return.

William Nylander is one of the team's leaders with 37 goals and 51 assists, delivering an outstanding performance in the offense. Both Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner also contribute significantly to the team's attacking actions, showcasing high levels of skill and efficiency.

Toronto's goaltending line, managed by Joseph Wall and Ilya Samsonov, showcases a reliable game, despite goals allowed in certain matches. Wall displays stability with 9 wins, 7 losses and 1 tie, while Samsonov deflects the majority of opponent's shots. The Toronto Maple Leafs continue their pursuit for top places in their division and the league in general, regardless of the current difficulties.

Head-to-Head 

The Canadians boast 4 victories in the last 5 matches against Washington, including 2 consecutive wins. This season, on the 25th of October, Toronto overpowered with a 4:1 score, and in the previous season, 5:1.

Match Prediction: Washington Capitals - Toronto Maple Leafs

I'm placing my bet on Ovechkin’s team with insurance, who are fervently battling for the playoffs and are currently in splendid form following Kuznetsov’s trade.