Washington (36-11-8) at Pittsburgh (23-25-9)
- When: Feb 22 2025, 3:00 PM
- Where: PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- TV: ABC
Game Preview
Washington Favored at -163, Total Set at 5.5
Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals (-163) hit the ice Saturday, looking to continue their momentum against the rival Pittsburgh Penguins. With the total set at 5.5, expect a tightly contested matchup as Washington eyes another strong performance after picking up points in six straight games (3-0-3) before the break.
The Capitals have dominated the Metropolitan Division, sitting 10 points ahead of Carolina and leading the Eastern Conference by nine over Florida. They’re also just one point behind Winnipeg for the NHL’s best record. Despite their success, no Washington players participated in the 4-Nations Face-Off, giving the entire team extra rest heading into the stretch run.
Ovechkin’s Playoff Push & Goal Chase
Ovechkin (26 goals in 39 games) is just 16 goals away from breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record of 894. Head coach Spencer Carbery expects his captain to hit another gear as the season winds down.
“I think this is going to be his best hockey of the year,” Carbery said. “He’s highly motivated and has the pedal to the metal for this last stretch.”
Key Capitals Contributors:
Dylan Strome (54 points, 38 assists) leads Washington’s offensive attack.
Tom Wilson (24 goals) & Aliaksei Protas (22 goals) provide secondary scoring.
Logan Thompson has been stellar in net (24-2-5, 2.23 GAA, .921 SV%).
Penguins Fighting for Playoff Life
Pittsburgh sits in eighth place in the wild-card race, six points behind Detroit for the final spot. With five of their next six games at home, including a crucial back-to-back against Washington and the Rangers, the Penguins know every point is critical.
They’ll get a much-needed boost as Evgeni Malkin returns after missing six games with a lower-body injury.
“We have 25 games left. It’s a big push for us, and I’m excited to be back,” Malkin said.
Sidney Crosby, fresh off winning the 4-Nations Face-Off, looks to continue leading the charge. Despite battling an apparent wrist injury, the 37-year-old tallied five points (1G, 4A) in the tournament. Bryan Rust (lower-body injury) is also expected to suit up.
Betting Breakdown:
Moneyline: Washington -163
Total: 5.5 Over (-120)
Trends: Washington has picked up points in six straight, while Pittsburgh has dropped two of its last three. The Capitals’ rested roster and goaltending edge could be key factors.
Prediction:
Washington’s extra rest and superior goaltending give them the edge here. Pittsburgh’s offense has been inconsistent, and with Malkin just returning, the Penguins may need time to regain chemistry.
Lean: Washington ML (-163), Under 5.5 (+100).
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
