Key Factors and Odds
The Washington Capitals had a disappointing season last year and are not expected to perform well in the upcoming season either. They struggled to score goals, totaling only 255 throughout the year. In their final 10 games, they went 2-6-2, ending the season on a low note. Although they had a winning record against the Pacific Division, their performance against other divisions was subpar. On the road, they had a record of 17-21-3. However, their special teams play was a highlight, with a 21.2% conversion rate on power plays and an 81.9% penalty kill rate.
Alex Ovechkin led the team with 75 points, followed by Dylan Strome with over 60 points. Evgeny Kuznetsov contributed 55 points and a team-high 43 assists. The Capitals lacked offensive production beyond these players. Darcy Kuemper performed well as the team’s goalie, but the lack of offensive support hindered their overall performance.
The team has made some changes in the offseason, losing players like Erik Gustafsson and Conor Sheary. Their only significant addition is Max Pacioretty, who missed most of the previous season due to injury.
The key factor for the Capitals is the performance of Alex Ovechkin, who is close to breaking the all-time goals record. He has a contract until 2026 and has the potential to make significant progress this season if he stays healthy.
The team’s goalie outlook is promising with the return of Kuemper and Charlie Lindgren. Lindgren performed well in relief of Kuemper last season. However, the lack of offensive support remains a challenge for the goalies.
Based on their offseason changes and lack of offensive improvement, the Capitals are expected to perform poorly this season. Their team point total is predicted to be under 85.5. Fans will likely be more focused on Ovechkin’s pursuit of the record rather than the team’s success.
Notable odds for the Capitals include +8000 for Stanley Cup Champions, +3000 for Conference Winner, +3000 for Division Winner, and +250 for making the playoffs.
Prediction: The under 85.5 team point total for the Caps appears to be a safe bet. With little offensive improvement and the team’s focus on Ovechkin’s record, they are unlikely to have a successful season.
Stanley Cup 2023/24 Odds
Outright
Carolina Hurricanes +900
Toronto Maple Leafs +1000
Colorado Avalanche +900
Edmonton Oilers +900
New Jersey Devils +900
Vegas Golden Knights +1200
Boston Bruins +1500
Dallas Stars +1400
New York Rangers +1400
Florida Panthers +1600
Los Angeles Kings +2000
Tampa Bay Lightning +2000
Minnesota Wild +3300
Buffalo Sabres +3300
Calgary Flames +3300
Pittsburgh Penguins +2800
Seattle Kraken +2800
Ottawa Senators +4000
New York Islanders +5000
Vancouver Canucks +5000
Detroit Red Wings +6600
Nashville Predators +6600
St. Louis Blues +5000
Washington Capitals +8000
Winnipeg Jets +5000
Chicago Blackhawks +15000
Columbus Blue Jackets +10000
Anaheim Ducks +15000
Philadelphia Flyers +15000
Arizona Coyotes +25000
Montreal Canadiens +25000
San Jose Sharks +25000
Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
