Washington Capitals - New York Rangers predictions and free betting tips [26/04/2024]

The Washington Capitals and the New York Rangers are set to play in the third NHL playoff match in the first round of the East.

Washington Capitals

The Capitals have faced serious difficulties at the start of the Eastern Conference playoffs, losing the first two games of the series against the New York Rangers. With the series moving to Washington, particular attention is given to the form of Alex Ovechkin, who underperformed with only one goal scored in two games. In the second match, he only made one attempt on goal, with two attempts blocked. Capitals coach Spencer Carbery emphasised the need to improve Ovechkin's performance, highlighting the importance of his activity and shooting accuracy.

Washington averages two goals per game in this playoffs and utilises 22.2% of power plays, however, the defence concedes four goals per game, reflecting only 75% of the shots. Team goalie Charlie Lindgren missed eight goals out of 58 reflected shots. The efficiency of attack and defence is questioned, especially after the Capitals conceded four goals in the first two periods of the last game but did enhance their defence in the third period, which didn't help to level the score.

Returning to home ice gives Washington the opportunity to turn the series around, but for this, key players, including Ovechkin, need to significantly improve their game. In previous matches, Washington's forwards, including Tom Wilson, who scored a single goal and made a pass, and TJ Oshie, actively shot, but lacked precision, which didn't allow the team to level the series results.

New York Rangers

The New York Rangers aim to consolidate their advantage in the playoffs, successfully ending the first two games with a victory and leading the series 2-0. The team demonstrates high efficiency, scoring an average of four goals per game and utilising 25% of power play opportunities. In the regular season, the Rangers ranked third in the NHL for power plays with 26.4%.

Centre forward Mika Zibanejad continues to impress, scoring three points, including one goal and two passes in the first two games of the series. This continues his successful performance at the end of the regular season, where he scored eight points in the final six matches. Zibanejad has already scored 50 points in 60 playoff games in his career. His high speed and ability to decide the outcome of matches are noted by coach Peter Laviolette as key success factors.

Goalie Igor Shesterkin demonstrated reliability, reflecting 22 out of 25 shots in the last game. The team's defence also shows good results, reflecting 77.8% of the opponent's shots when outnumbered. The Rangers strive to prevent opponents from reviving in the series, especially now when they return to their home arena. With the third game taking place on their turf, the team intends to use the advantage of home ice to strengthen their positions and continue the victorious path in the playoffs.

Prediction for the match Washington Capitals - New York Rangers

Washington miraculously made it to the playoffs thanks to Ovechkin, but the game is heading towards a sweeping victory for New York. Panarin's team looks much stronger in attack and execution. In the last match, the winning Rangers made almost three times as many shots as the Capitals in the third period and confidently took the victory.