By: Kim Smith Published 03/22/2026, 05:00 AM ET 
The Colorado Avalanche travel to face the Washington Capitals at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, with puck drop scheduled for 12:30 PM on NHL Network. Colorado enters this matchup as a road favorite with a moneyline of -155, while Washington comes in at +130. The total for this game is set at 6.5 goals, with the puck line showing Colorado -1.5 (+164) and Washington +1.5 (-198). Be sure to check out our free NHL picks for more expert analysis on today’s games.
Get Free $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Discounts
Subscribe Now
I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Winners and Whiners may use third-party services to process my data.
Terms & Conditions Colorado’s High-Octane Attack Hits the Road
The Avalanche come into this game with an impressive 45-13-10 record, including a strong 22-7-5 mark on the road. Over their last five games, Colorado has recently won over Chicago and Seattle, while suffering losses to Dallas, Pittsburgh, and Winnipeg. While the recent stretch has been a bit uneven, this is still one of the most dangerous teams in the NHL when firing on all cylinders.
Colorado has been dominant offensively this season, averaging 3.69 goals per game, one of the top marks in the league. They also generate plenty of opportunities, averaging 34.0 shots per game while allowing just 26.2 shots against. Defensively, they have been just as strong, giving up only 2.46 goals per game, which highlights their elite two-way play.
One area that stands out for Colorado is their ability to control the pace of play. Their shot differential and defensive structure allow them to dictate games, especially on the road. While their power play sits at 16.7%, which is somewhat middle of the pack, their penalty kill at 82.9% has been reliable. If Colorado can tighten up their special teams, they become even more difficult to beat. 
Washington Looks to Defend Home Ice
The Capitals enter this contest with a 35-27-8 record and have been solid at home with a 22-11-4 mark. Over their last five games, Washington has recently won over New Jersey, Ottawa, and Buffalo, while losing to Boston and Philadelphia. This team has shown flashes of consistency, particularly in low-scoring games.
Washington averages 3.10 goals per game while allowing 2.84 goals against, showing a fairly balanced approach. They generate 28.7 shots per game and allow 28.2, which suggests they tend to play more evenly matched contests compared to Colorado’s more dominant puck possession style.
Special teams could be a concern for Washington. Their power play is converting at 16.5%, and their penalty kill sits at 79.9%, which is slightly below average. They have also allowed 44 power play goals, which could be problematic against a team like Colorado that creates a high volume of chances.
That said, Washington’s ability to grind out close games at home is a strength. They’ve been effective in keeping games tight and capitalizing on opportunities, especially when facing high-powered opponents.
Colorado Avalanche vs Washington Capitals Pick
Avalanche vs Capitals Pick Pick: Colorado Avalanche -1.5 (+164)
Colorado’s offensive firepower and defensive consistency give them a clear edge in this matchup. Even though Washington has been solid at home, the Avalanche’s ability to generate shots and control possession should eventually wear down the Capitals. I expect Colorado to bounce back from their recent inconsistency and deliver a strong performance here.
Avalanche vs Capitals Total Pick
I’m going with the over in this matchup because Colorado’s offense is simply too explosive to ignore. They average nearly four goals per game, and even if Washington tries to slow things down, I think the Avalanche will dictate the pace. Washington has enough offensive capability to contribute as well, so I see this game getting past the total.
Final Score Prediction: Colorado Avalanche 4, Washington Capitals 2
This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Saturday.
Betting on the NHL? 
400% Extra: Deposit $10 Get $50
Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus 
Get up to 103 SC + 20,500 GC for FREE with Legendz!
Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus 
100% purchase match for up to 100 in Onyx Cash Free Picks
Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus