Washington vs New Jersey Prediction 20 March 2026
📣 The ice battles of the Metropolitan Division always capture the fans' attention. On Friday night, the Washington Capitals and New Jersey Devils face off at Capital One Arena. The teams are neck and neck in the standings, continuing their fight for a playoff spot, adding extra significance to this matchup.
Head-to-Head
This season, Washington and New Jersey have already faced each other twice. The teams exchanged away victories. In November, the Newark squad held the lead but couldn't maintain it, allowing Alexander Ovechkin's line to score two goals in the third period. However, Jesper Bratt and his teammates excelled in the shootout, ultimately winning 3-2. The return match at the Prudential Center also went beyond regulation time. In the second game, Alexander Ovechkin scored again, and his colleague Jakob Chychrun sealed the win in overtime with a 4-3 victory. Notably, out of 57 head-to-head clashes, Washington holds the advantage with 37 wins.
Head-to-head statistics Washington - New Jersey
Washington Capitals Team Overview
Washington are not in their best form, alternating between victories and defeats. Last week, the capital team left a mark with a win over the resurgent Buffalo (2-1). On Wednesday night, Washington proved stronger than the Ottawa Senators (4-1). The Senators outshot the hosts and were more effective in face-offs, but couldn't get past Logan Thompson. Alexander Ovechkin moved closer to his 1,000th career goal, including playoffs, while rookie Cole Hutson netted his first NHL goal. On average, the Capitals score 3.13 goals per game while conceding 2.96. It's unusual to see last season's regular-season winners outside the top eight. Spencer Carbery's team remains hopeful, as their postseason chances are still alive. Notably, Washington have suffered only two regulation losses in their last 10 home games.
Match Results: Washington Capitals
New Jersey Devils Team Overview
The "Devils" have also been struggling with their performances, but they managed to regroup in the second half of March, securing three consecutive victories. In all three games, Hamilton and his teammates allowed their opponents to score frequently, yet Jack Hughes consistently led the team, contributing crucial points. Currently, New Jersey trails Washington by four points, with Sheldon Keefe's squad still having a game in hand. On average, the visiting team scores 2.74 goals per game while conceding 3 goals. They start their away games aggressively, often opening the scoring in the first period. On Friday, the team is unlikely to have Stefan Noesen and Brett Pesce available as they continue their recovery. The "Devils" face a challenging four-game road trip ahead, culminating in a showdown with the formidable Carolina (the leader of the East).
Match Results: New Jersey Devils
🏒 Projected Lineups
Washington: Thompson - Chychrun, Van Riemsdyk - Beauvillier, Strome, Ovechkin
New Jersey: Markstrom - Siegenthaler, Hamilton - Meier, Hischier, Mercer
🥅 Goalies
This season, Washington are relying on the goalie tandem of Thompson-Lindgren. Last regular season, Logan Thompson appeared in 43 games for the Capitals and posted a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.49. Currently, Thompson continues to be a solid presence, showcasing even more impressive stats with a GAA of 2.39.
The Devils are counting on the goaltending duo of Markstrom-Allen. Jacob Markstrom featured in 39 games for New Jersey, recording a less-than-stellar GAA of 3.10. In his last five outings, the Swede has managed to maintain a save percentage of 90% only once.
⭐ Editor's Prediction
New Jersey have been excelling in recent games primarily due to their offensive play and the efforts of their top-line forwards, led by Jack Hughes. Considering that the over 5.5 goals has hit in seven of New Jersey's last eight matches, we'll once again choose this as our main bet. The Capitals aim to play a more restrained game, but they are likely to struggle to keep up with the nimble Devils, prompting Ovechkin and his teammates to play catch-up.No comments
Betting Tips: Washington Capitals - New Jersey Devils
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