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. Our featured game of this edition is the Winnipeg Jets taking on the Minnesota Wild. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025-26 season.
NHL Predictions
San Jose Sharks vs Washington Capitals
Head-to-Head: Sharks 0-1 Capitals
US TV: Monumental Sports Network; NBC Sports California; ESPN+
Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)
We open up NHL predictions with the San Jose Sharks visiting the Washington Capitals. Yaroslav Askarov is the projected starter for the Sharks but check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. San Jose is 6-4 in its previous 10 games entering this matchup. However, the Sharks did lose to the Vegas Golden Knights in their last time on ice. Macklin Celebrini is having an awesome second season with the team’s lead in goals (24), assists (46), and points (70).
Logan Thompson is the likely starter for the Capitals, who are 5-4-1 in their last 10 games. Washington did beat San Jose, 7-1, in a game on December 3. However, the Sharks seem to be a much different team than the one that took the ice before Christmas. Tom Wilson leads the way in goals (22) and points (42) so far this campaign.
Both teams are in the mix for a Stanley Cup Playoff spot. However, the Sharks will get a measure of revenge.
Prediction: Sharks win 4-3.