By: Kim Smith Published 01/31/2026, 05:30 AM ET 
The Carolina Hurricanes travel to the nation’s capital to face the Washington Capitals on Saturday, January 31, 2026, in an Eastern Conference matchup at Capital One Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 5:00 PM ET, and the game will be televised on ESPN+. Carolina enters the contest as the road favorite with the Hurricanes listed at -175 on the moneyline. The total for this matchup is set at 6.5 goals. Be sure to check out our free NHL picks for more daily NHL betting insights and expert predictions.
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Terms & Conditions Hurricanes Bringing Elite Form on the Road
Carolina comes into this matchup with a strong 33-15-5 overall record and has been one of the league’s most reliable teams away from home, posting an impressive 14-7-3 road mark. The Hurricanes have been consistent throughout the season and continue to set the tone with speed, puck possession, and defensive structure. Over their last five games, Carolina has recently won over Utah, Ottawa, Buffalo, and New Jersey, with their lone setback coming in a shootout loss to Chicago. That stretch reinforces just how difficult the Hurricanes are to beat, even when they are not at their sharpest.
From a statistical standpoint, Carolina averages 3.38 goals per game while allowing just 2.83, giving them one of the best goal differentials in the Eastern Conference. The Hurricanes generate 32.1 shots per game while allowing only 24.3, a massive edge that reflects their ability to control play at even strength. Their power play has been effective at 21.3%, producing 34 goals with the man advantage.
Defensively, Carolina’s penalty kill sits at 80.4%, and they have yet to allow a shorthanded goal this season. The Hurricanes have also scored six shorthanded goals of their own, showing aggressive pressure even when down a man. Their ability to dominate possession and limit high-danger chances makes them a difficult matchup for any opponent, especially on the road.
Capitals Looking to Protect Home Ice
Washington enters Saturday’s matchup with a 26-22-7 overall record and has been competitive at home with a 14-10-3 mark at Capital One Arena. While the Capitals have been inconsistent in recent weeks, they remain a dangerous team capable of strong offensive performances. Over their last five games, Washington has recently won over Detroit and Calgary, while suffering losses to Seattle, Edmonton in overtime, and Vancouver. That stretch highlights a team that can score but has struggled to close games defensively.
Offensively, Washington averages 3.17 goals per game while allowing 2.94, numbers that keep them competitive most nights. The Capitals generate 29.1 shots per game and allow 28.6, often playing a more balanced, back-and-forth style. Their power play has been a concern, converting at just 16.9% with 27 goals on the season.
Defensively, Washington’s penalty kill has also been an issue, operating at 77.7% while allowing 39 power play goals. While the Capitals have limited shorthanded goals against, their inability to consistently kill penalties could be problematic against Carolina’s disciplined and patient offensive approach. Against a Hurricanes team that thrives on sustained pressure, Washington will need to play a clean, structured game.
Carolina Hurricanes vs Washington Capitals PickCarolina Hurricanes vs Washington Capitals Pick
Carolina’s ability to control puck possession, limit shots, and win games on the road gives them a clear edge in this matchup. Washington has struggled defensively against high-tempo teams, and their penalty kill issues could be exposed by Carolina’s consistent power play. With the Hurricanes playing disciplined, structured hockey, they are well-positioned to secure another road victory.
Carolina Hurricanes vs Washington Capitals Total Pick
I’m backing the under in this matchup because Carolina consistently keeps opponents from generating quality scoring chances. While Washington is capable offensively, the Hurricanes’ defensive structure and shot suppression often keep games tighter than expected. If Carolina dictates pace and limits power-play opportunities, this game is likely to stay under the total.
Final Score Prediction: Carolina Hurricanes 4, Washington Capitals 2
This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Friday.
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