Image Source: Harry Lichtman
Key Takeaways
- The Washington Capitals return home for a three-game homestand, starting with a game against the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday night
- The Capitals are coming off a 3-2 loss to Nashville, despite outplaying them 5-on-5 and scoring two power-play goals
- Alex Ovechkin reached the 20-goal mark for the 21st consecutive season, scoring on a 5-on-3 power play against Nashville
- The Capitals have not been able to string together victories since early December, going 6-8-4 across an 18-game span
- The team is expected to face a tough test against the Canadiens, who are on the back end of a set of back-to-backs and starting a three-game road trip
Introduction to the Game
The Washington Capitals are set to return home for a three-game homestand, starting with a highly anticipated matchup against the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday night. As Harry Lichtman, an award-winning journalist covering the Capitals for Sportsnaut, notes, the team is looking to bounce back from a tough loss to Nashville. The Capitals fell 3-2 to the Predators, despite outplaying them 5-on-5 and scoring two power-play goals. As Lichtman reports, "The Capitals managed to outplay Nashville on the 5-on-5 and score two power-play goals. However, the team once again failed to string together victories for the first time since early December."
Recent Performance
The Capitals’ recent performance has been marred by inconsistency, with the team struggling to string together victories. As Lichtman notes, "Since their shootout loss to Anaheim on Dec. 5, the Capitals are 6-8-4 across an 18-game span. The team has not been able to piece together a winning streak over five and a half weeks." Despite this, the team has shown flashes of brilliance, including a dominant 5-1 win over Chicago on Friday. However, the loss to Nashville was a setback, and the team will be looking to regroup and refocus against the Canadiens.
Matchup Against the Canadiens
The Capitals will be facing a tough test against the Canadiens, who are on the back end of a set of back-to-backs and starting a three-game road trip. The two teams previously met in Montreal on Nov. 20, where the Capitals emerged with a stellar 8-4 victory. As Lichtman reports, "Ovechkin had a hat trick, while Frank and Sonny Milano each scored twice." The Canadiens will be looking to exact revenge, and the Capitals will need to be at the top of their game to come out on top.
Expected Lines and Goalies
The Capitals are expected to ice a strong lineup, with Alex Ovechkin, Dylan Strome, and Aliaksei Protas forming a potent top line. The team’s defense will be led by John Carlson and Martin Fehervary, with Logan Thompson starting in goal. The Canadiens, meanwhile, will be led by Cole Caulfield, Nick Suzuki, and Alexandre Texier up front, with Sam Montembeault starting in goal. As Lichtman notes, "The Capitals will need to be sharp on defense to contain the Canadiens’ high-powered offense."
How to Watch
Fans can catch the game on Monumental Sports Network, with radio coverage available on 106.7 The Fan/Caps Radio Network. As Lichtman notes, "The game is set to be a thrilling matchup, with both teams looking to make a statement in the competitive Eastern Conference." With the Capitals looking to bounce back from a tough loss and the Canadiens seeking revenge, this game is sure to be an exciting one.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Washington Capitals are set to face a tough test against the Montreal Canadiens on Tuesday night. The team will need to be at the top of their game to come out on top, with Alex Ovechkin and the rest of the offense looking to lead the charge. As Lichtman notes, "The Capitals have the talent and depth to make a deep run in the playoffs, but they need to start stringing together victories to make it happen." With a strong lineup and a motivated team, the Capitals are ready to take on the challenge and come out on top.
https://sportsnaut.com/nhl/washington-capitals/capitals-vs-canadiens-lines-notes-how-to-watch/
