Welcome back to another NHL Predictions. Each day our writers here at Last Word on Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then makes predictions based on how they might play out. For this edition, we will look at the Montreal Canadiens taking on the Washington Capitals. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
NHL Predictions
Montreal Canadiens vs Washington Capitals
Series Head-to-Head: Canadiens 1-3 Capitals
Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
TV: Sportsnet; CBC; ESPN, Sportsnet, TVAS, Monumental Sports Network
The Capitals have a chance to book a second-round matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes with a victory. Washington used a four-goal third period to push past Montreal to take a three games to one series advantage. Brandon Duhaime registered a pair of goals while Dylan Strome collected a goal and an assist for the Caps.
Montreal has questions in goal and may have to turn to Jakub Dobes once again after the Game 3 injury to Sam Montembeault. The Canadiens have hung with the Capitals, but need a huge effort to send the series back to the Bell Centre.
This edition of NHL predictions takes a dive into the stats and storylines heading into Game 5. Let’s take a look.
The Canadiens Story
Dobes drew his first career post-season start, but Montreal is hoping Montembeault can return to the crease. The rookie netminder is the projected starter, but always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter.
Fellow rookie Lane Hutson leads the team in points with five while Cole Caufield is close behind with four points. However, the Habs need production from other parts of the lineup in order to extend the series.
The Capitals Story
Logan Thompson has managed to fight through the pain to start Game 4. Charlie Lindgren is ready to go just in case, but Thompson should draw the start in this game.
Strome leads the team in points with seven and Anthony Beauvillier is second with five points and has been a great acquisition for the club. Alex Ovechkin and Connor McMichael also have four points for Washington this season.
Prediction
Washington has the momentum and the experience to finish the job. Montreal has played well this season and has gained experience with this post-season run.
The Capitals physical play should carry them through to book a spot in the next round. However, the Canadiens should be happy with their play this campaign.
Prediction: Capitals win 4-2.
Prop Bets of the Night
We close out NHL predictions with some prop bets of the night. The over/under for tonight’s game is 6.5 and we think the under is the right play for this game.
For individual props, take Nick Suzuki to get an assist in this game for Montreal. On the Washington side, take Ovechkin to get a power-play goal.
Main photo by: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
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The post NHL Predictions: April 30 Montreal Canadiens vs Washington Capitals appeared first on Last Word On Hockey.