Pittsburgh Penguins (6-2)
In Game 4, the Pittsburgh Penguins’ defense will be under a lot of stress following the news that defenseman Kris Letang was suspended one game for his hit on the Washington Capitals’ Marcus Johansson. Pittsburgh’s Olli Maata has also been ruled out of Game 4 and will miss his second-straight game.
Playing without two of their best defensemen will be a big test for the Penguins. Washington has made each of its last two losses close, so a weaker Pittsburgh defense could give the Capitals a prime chance to get themselves even with the Penguins.
Pittsburgh has found success when it generates quick opportunities on net, as opposed to setting up in the offensive zone and distributing the puck. The speed of the Penguins has been unmatched by the Capitals, and it will continue to be Pittsburgh’s biggest advantage on the ice.
Washington Capitals (5-4)
The Capitals aren’t far from tying the series back up. In Game 3, Washington totaled 85 shots in the direction of goaltender Matt Murray, 49 of which were on-goal. After not losing any back-to-back games in the regular season, Washington has done so twice since the playoffs began.
The Capitals are fortunate enough to not have any major injuries, but they’ll be playing without defenseman Brooks Orpik, who will sit out the second game of his three-game suspension.
Tonight, look to see forwards T.J. Oshie and Alex Ovechkin put the offense on their back, as goals have been scarce with Murray in the net for the Penguins. Washington will continue to separate Pittsburgh from the puck by hitting early and often.
Don’t count out the Capitals — a win tonight could turn the tide as the series shifts back to Washington.
Prediction
The Penguins would like to win this game to put every ounce of pressure on the Capitals, but Washington will play its most desperate form of hockey all season.
Game 4 will play out like the previous three and will be a close affair, but, unlike the last two, another team will come out on top. Washington will end up claiming victory over the Penguins, 4-3.
Where: Consol Energy Center, Pittsburgh, PA
When: Wednesday, May 4 @ 8:00 p.m. Where: NBCS, TVA, CBC
Image credit: Getty Images
