Pittsburgh Penguins (39-24-8)
Pittsburgh took it to a Flyers team that was doing equally as well as of late. Now, the Penguins must look ahead to an even tougher opponent, the Washington Capitals. In order to win this game the Penguins must play at the same level as they did Saturday.
Goaltending has been the catalyst for Pittsburgh over its five game winning streak allowing more than two goals only once, and that was the 5-3 win against the Rangers. The Penguins are also 4-0-0 without Evgeni Malkin which is surprising to say the least.
However, the powerplay is only 8.3 percent on the power play (1-12) and has not scored a goals since the first game without Malkin. Pittsburgh may not be able to get past the Capitals if they do not take advantage of having the extra man on the ice.
Washington Capitals (51-14-5)
It is no secret that Washington has one of the most dominant teams in the NHL. The offense, which has a league-best power play at 23.2 percent, has not missed a beat and showed their prowess in their last 4-1 win against Nashville.
The offense is led by Alex Ovechkin who leads the NHL with 42 goals. Braden Holtby, their netminder also leads the league in wins with 43. It is expected to be a big test for the Penguins who have been just hot hot lately. It will be difficult, however, for Pittsburgh to keep up with a team that has several offensive weapons.
Prediction
The Penguins winning streak ends here. While Pittsburgh has put together a very impressive win, Marc-Andre Fleury will be bombarded and the defense overwhelmed by and offense that does not rest.
This is not to say the Penguins will not have a shot, it will come down to the last period to determine the winner, but the Capitals will leave Pittsburgh with their 52nd win of the season in a 4-2 win.
Where: Consol Energy Center, Pittsburgh, PA
When: Sunday, March 20 @ 6:00 p.m.
Watch: NBCS, TVA
