Washington vs Montreal Prediction: the Capitals Found Their Style

Prediction for the NHL Washington Capitals vs Montreal Canadiens match, which will take place on January 1st. Who will turn out to be stronger? Check the team conditions! Several betting options are available.

Washington has had a solid season, although there were significant concerns about the aging team that has become highly injury-prone in recent years. Indeed, the Capitals first needed to find their style, missing tons of points. But by December, they had improved and played entirely differently. Peter Laviolette's team had won ten games out of 12, losing only to Dallas and Ottawa 1-2 and 3-4. Such a decisive run allowed Washington to jump from the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings to sixth place.

Montreal, too, could use a productive spurt, but the Canadian team still needs to work on it. Last season the Red and Blues fell apart, becoming a hopeless underdog. They're playing better this season but won't be in contention for the playoffs. The Canadiens' crisis has only worsened, forcing them to suffer seven losses with one win over Arizona, 2-3. Of course, such a weak stretch has already dropped Montreal to 14th in the Eastern Conference standings.

Washington and Montreal dwelt close to each other in the Eastern Conference standings in the opening rounds, but they went separate ways in December. The Capitals were on pace to win ten games and make the playoffs. And the Canadiens had failed seven, hitting rock bottom. Moreover, head-to-head stats also speak in favor of Peter Laviolette's squad, who have won four matches in a row by at least two goals. 

Washington has shown great offense of late. In the six games, the Capitals have scored 23 goals (3.83 average per game). Montreal, meanwhile, is in trouble, as they have conceded 15 goals (5.00 average per game) in the last three meetings. Moreover, Peter Laviolette's team scored 22 goals in the previous four faceoffs.

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