Capitals vs. Devils Preview: March 8, 2019
Tonight, the Washington Capitals return home to Capital One Arena to face the New Jersey Devils. The Caps are as hot as ever, riding a five game win streak, and great play from Alexander Ovechkin at left wing and Braden Holtby in the net. Ovechkin looks to add to his 46-goals of the season and 1,199 points overall. New additions Carl Hagelin and Nick Jensen will also serve the team in their electrifying offense against their division rivals.
The Capitals are still tied with the Islanders for the Metropolitan Division lead with 85 points. If the playoffs were to start today, they would play the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first round. With fifteen games left, they seem poised to make another solid run. The Devils, however, have no such luck, as their 59 points ranks them dead last in the Metro Conference. They are now just hoping to play spoiler as the playoff push continues.
The season series between the two teams is even at 1-1. The Devils shut out the Caps 6-0 on Oct. 11 in New Jersey, but the Caps won 6-3 at home on Nov. 30. Braden Holtby looks to extend his 250 total wins in net tonight. His win percentage at 61.3 percent is the highest among all active NHL goalies. The Devils are led by reigning Hart Trophy-winner Taylor Hall, and look to find one last groove as the final month of the season begins.
