Welcome back to 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. Our featured game of this edition is the Edmonton Oilers taking on the San Jose Sharks. Be sure to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025-26 season.
NHL Predictions
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Washington Capitals vs Toronto Maple Leafs
Head-to-Head: Capitals 2-0 Maple Leafs
How to Watch: US TV: Monumental Sports Network; ESPN+. Canada TV: Sportnet; TVA Sports.
Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
Our opening game of NHL predictions has the Washington Capitals taking on the Toronto Maple Leafs for the final time this season. Logan Thompson is the expected starter in goal for Capitals. However, always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. Washington is hanging on by a thread in the Stanley Cup Playoff race. The Caps are five points off the last automatic spot in the Metropolitan Division and the second wild card place. Alex Ovechkin leads the team in goals with 31.
Joseph Woll is the projected starter for the Maple Leafs in this game. Toronto has already been eliminated from postseason contention and are 4-4-2 in their last 10 games. We could see an offseason of change in the Six and players are fighting for jobs. William Nylander leads the team in assists (47) and points (73) despite missing some games this season. John Tavares is the team’s leading goalscorer with 30 so far this campaign.
Washington is desperately trying to get points and stay in the race. The Capitals should pick up the victory and keep their slim hopes alive.
Prediction: Capitals win 4-2.