Washington (50-19-9) at Columbus (36-33-9)
- When: Apr 12 2025, 12:30 PM
- Where: Nationwide Arena, Columbus, OH, USA
- TV: ABC
Capitals vs Blue Jackets Preview & Prediction
Washington Moneyline -125 | Total: 6.5
The Washington Capitals roll into Saturday’s road clash against the Columbus Blue Jackets with their sights set on chasing down the Presidents’ Trophy — and MyBookie oddsmakers have them as the slight -125 moneyline favorites with the total pegged at 6.5 goals.
Washington Capitals Outlook
Sitting at 50-19-9 (109 points), the Capitals are just three points behind Winnipeg for the NHL’s top overall seed and hold a critical game in hand. With postseason positioning on the line, expect Washington to bring playoff-level intensity as they aim to close that gap.
Washington comes in hot after a dramatic 5-4 shootout win over the Hurricanes, where Pierre-Luc Dubois and Tom Wilson were among the offensive standouts. Dubois not only scored in regulation but also delivered the game-winner in the shootout. Dylan Strome, riding a six-game point streak, added his 25th goal of the year.
Washington’s second period against Carolina was especially promising — a physical, fast-paced effort reminiscent of playoff-style hockey. If they replicate that dominance against Columbus, they’ll be tough to beat. Charlie Lindgren should get the nod in net with Logan Thompson sidelined, and he’s coming off a 30-save performance.
The status of Alex Ovechkin — fresh off celebrating his record-setting goal milestone — remains uncertain, as rest is on the table. But even without their superstar, Washington’s depth scoring has proven capable.
Columbus Blue Jackets Outlook
Columbus (36-33-9, 81 points) isn’t dead yet in the Eastern Conference wild-card race but the path is razor-thin. Sitting six points behind Montreal with four games left, every night is now must-win territory. Fortunately for them, they’ve rattled off two straight victories and clawed back to life.
In Thursday’s 3-2 comeback win over Buffalo, emergency backup Jet Greaves made 39 saves in a gutsy performance, stepping up with Elvis Merzlikins injured. Greaves will be tasked again on Saturday, and if his last showing is any indication, he’s ready for the spotlight.
Captain Boone Jenner delivered the game-winner early in the third, showcasing the kind of urgency Columbus needs to keep their faint playoff hopes alive. The Jackets rallied from 2-0 down, showing the same resiliency that’s marked their recent success.
However, with key injuries — including defenseman Jake Christiansen also ruled out — the Blue Jackets are thin on the blue line and short-handed in net.
Prediction: Columbus keeps it close early, but Washington’s offense eventually breaks through and cashes the puck line.
Betting Picks
Moneyline: Washington Capitals -125
Total: Under 6.5 (-112) – With playoff-like pressure, expect a tighter defensive game.
Best Bet: Capitals -1.5 (+190) — Look for a late empty-netter to seal a two-goal win.
Score Prediction: Capitals 4, Blue Jackets 2
- NHL Odds source: MYBookie Sportsbook
