Free Picks: New York Islanders vs. Washington Capitals

The Capitals and Islanders have showcased their defensive capabilities all season. Thursday night, their D-core will be heavily tested against two solid offenses. In this NHL preview, I take a look at how two high-scoring games doesn’t reflect the whole story. I have been hot as of late; will that stay true when two of the best defensive teams go head-to-head?

The Washington Capitals and New York Islanders share an identical 29-13-4 record. This weekend, the Caps and Isles are set to play three straight games against one another. This weekend series could ultimately decide who gets top seed in the East Division.

Other than record, there is one similarity between New York and Washington. Their commitment to defense has helped propel each team to the top of the leaderboards. Thursday night, expect to see a great display of defensive capabilities from both teams.

That last sentence is a hint into the future of this free NHL prediction. With how strong each team is, I think taking the under in total goals will be the play here.

Yes, Washington is one of the highest-scoring teams in the NHL. But with that being said, Washington barely averages over 3 goals per game against the Islanders. The Capitals have scored 16 goals in 5 games against New York, so it isn’t like the Capitals are necessarily lighting up the Islanders on every occasion.

Other than one game in which Washington scored 8 goals against New York, the Capitals’ offense have fallen silent against New York.

New York has had two games in which their offense exploded. The Isles scored 6 goals in one game and potted 4 in another. Other than those two instances, New York has been quiet as well.

I think taking the under will be your best NHL bet for this game. Washington and New York can be high-scoring teams, but that doesn’t happen often against one another on a regular occurrence.

This game screams low scoring. With heavy playoff implications, both teams will be extra careful in their own end. This is a game where both teams will need to capitalize off the opposition’s mistakes. If Washington and New York can stay relatively disciplined on defense, the under will cash.

• The under has cashed in 7 of NYI’s last 9 games.
• 4 of last 6 games between NYI/WSH have seen the under cash.
• New York allows 2.09 goals against at home this season.
• Both WSH/NYI average less than 30 shots per game.