Lightning vs Capitals Picks and Prediction – 4/13/2024

In a riveting clash this Saturday at Capital One Arena, the Tampa Bay Lightning, holding a 44-27-8 record, square off against the Washington Capitals, who stand at 37-31-11. Both teams come off recent losses, with the Lightning falling in a shootout to Ottawa and the Capitals defeated by Buffalo. This matchup is pivotal as both teams look to bounce back and improve in their respective divisions. Hit the ice running with our NHL picks.

The Lightning, fourth in the Atlantic Division, possess a potent offense, marked by a remarkable 278 goals this season, the fourth-highest in the league. The offensive prowess is highlighted by Nikita Kucherov and Brayden Point, who have been instrumental in Tampa Bay's scoring thrust. Kucherov leads with 98 points, while Point tops the goal-scoring chart with 45. 

Defensively, however, Tampa Bay has shown vulnerabilities, conceding 255 goals, which ranks 22nd in the league. The special teams are a mixed bag, boasting the best power play percentage at 29% but struggling on defense with the penalty kill at 83.2%. Recent injuries to key players like Anthony Duclair and Haydn Fleury could impact depth and defensive capabilities.

The Capitals find themselves in a challenging position, placed fifth in the Metropolitan Division. They have struggled significantly with scoring, managing only 208 goals, a stark contrast to Tampa Bay’s offensive output. Alex Ovechkin remains a critical figure for Washington, leading with 34 goals and 43 assists, but the team's overall scoring depth has been lacking. 

Defensively, the Capitals are slightly better positioned than the Lightning, allowing 249 goals. The power play and penalty kill statistics have not been as impressive, with a power play efficiency of 20.5% and a penalty kill rate of 78.8%. The Capitals will also feel the absence of key players like Nicklas Backstrom and Ethan Bear, which could hinder the defense.