NHL Game Preview: Washington Capitals (51-21-9) vs. Pittsburgh Penguins (33-36-12)

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The Washington Capitals (51-21-9) and Pittsburgh Penguins (33-36-12) are set to face off in their final regular-season matchup at PPG Paints Arena. The Capitals have already clinched the Metropolitan Division title, while the Penguins are wrapping up a disappointing season.

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Game Details

  • Matchup: Washington Capitals vs. Pittsburgh Penguins
  • Date: Thursday, April 17, 2025
  • Location: PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh, PA
  • Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
  • Broadcast: ESPN, Sportsnet

Recent Form & Team Outlook

The Capitals have been dominant all season, securing 111 points and leading the Metropolitan Division. They are coming off a 3-1 road win against the New York Islanders.

Meanwhile, the Penguins have struggled, sitting seventh in the division with 74 points. They lost 4-1 to the Boston Bruins in their last game and have been inconsistent throughout the season.

Head-to-Head Matchup

  • The Penguins hold a 124-107-16-3 all-time record against the Capitals.
  • Pittsburgh has a 67-47-7-1 home record against Washington.
  • Washington leads the season series 2-1, with Thursday marking their final matchup of the year.

Key Players to Watch

  • Washington Capitals:
    • Alexander Ovechkin – Leads the team with 43 goals and 29 assists, continuing his legendary career.
    • Dylan Strome – Scored a hat trick in Washington’s last win over the Islanders.
    • Jakob Chychrun – Had two goals in the Capitals’ previous 8-3 win against Pittsburgh.
  • Pittsburgh Penguins:
    • Sidney Crosby – Has 32 goals and 57 assists, remaining the heart of the Penguins’ offense.
    • Bryan Rust – Has six goals and six assists in his last 10 games.
    • Kris Letang – Out due to a recent heart procedure, leaving a gap in Pittsburgh’s defense.

Matchup Breakdown

  • Capitals’ Offense vs. Penguins’ Defense:
    Washington has been explosive offensively, while Pittsburgh has struggled defensively, allowing 285 goals this season.
  • Penguins’ Home Advantage:
    Despite their struggles, Pittsburgh has historically performed well against Washington at home.
  • Playoff Implications:
    The Capitals are preparing for the postseason, while the Penguins are playing their final game of the season.

Washington Capitals                      6.5

Pittsburgh Penguins                       – 112

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, April 16, 2025