Capitals vs. Lightning: A Critical Eastern Conference Showdown

Friday, April 12th, 2024

In the Atlantic Division, the Tampa Bay Lightning currently hold the fourth position with a record showing 44 wins, 27 losses, and 8 in overtime. They are gearing up for a match against the Washington Capitals, positioned fifth in the Metropolitan Division, boasting 37 victories, 31 defeats, and 11 overtime outcomes.

As the hosts, the Capitals are keen on snapping their three-game losing streak on home ice. Their home record stands at 20 wins, 12 losses, and 7 in overtime, with a 15-2-6 record in tightly contested matches decided by just one goal.

On their part, the Lightning have a 20-17-3 record in away games and are identified as the league's fourth-highest scoring team with a total of 278 goals scored. This upcoming match marks their third encounter with the Capitals this season, with the Lightning looking to avenge their previous 5-3 loss.

Dylan Strome and Alexander Ovechkin are crucial for the Capitals’ success, with Strome accumulating 27 goals and 38 assists, while Ovechkin contributed six goals and two assists over the last ten games.

The Lightning will lean on the prowess of Steven Stamkos, proud owner of 39 goals and 38 assists, alongside Anthony Cirelli, who has notched five goals and three assists in recent games, to carve out a victory.

Both teams are navigating injury woes. The Capitals are without Rasmus Sandin due to an upper body injury, Nicklas Backstrom out with a hip issue, and Ethan Bear away for personal reasons. The Lightning will miss Anthony Duclair through illness, Haydn Fleury due to an upper body injury, Jonas Johansson with a lower body ailment, and Mikhail Sergachev also sidelined with a lower body injury.

Related Links

• Washington Capitals News & Updates
• Washington Capitals Schedule & Scores
• Tampa Bay Lightning News & Updates
• Tampa Bay Lightning Schedule & Scores
• NHL News