Alex Ovechkin is on the verge of cementing his name in NHL history, and we expect the 'Great Eight' to inch even closer on Friday.
NHL
Tonight’s matchup between the Washington Capitals and the Chicago Blackhawks is highlighted by whether or not Alexander Ovechkin can tie or beat Wayne Gretzky’s record.
Ovechkin is just three goals away from becoming the greatest goal-scorer in the history of hockey, and my Blackhawks vs. Capitals predictions expect the Washington captain to strike on home ice.
Find out more in my NHL picks for Friday, April 4.
Over the past 10 games, the Blackhawks have been allowing the fifth-most high-danger chances against per 60 minutes, surrendering 12.30 per game. Since being traded from Florida to Chicago at the deadline, Spencer Knight has gone 2-6-1 with a .878 SV% and a 3.34 GAA.
Ovechkin will find the back of the net tonight.
My best bet: Alex Ovechkin 2+ goals (+460 at FanDuel)
My analysis
Alex Ovechkin has always thrived when the spotlight has been on him, and now he has the attention of the entire sports world as he chases down Wayne Gretzky’s goal-scoring record.
As some might remember, Ovechkin actually scored his 800th career goal against the very same opponent, and he did so in wild fashion by completing a hat trick against the Chicago Blackhawks. Tonight could present a very similar storyline.
The Blackhawks are the second-worst team in the NHL, allowing 3.81 goals against per game since the beginning of March, while the Washington Capitals have tallied 3.50 goals per game in the same span. Ovechkin has now scored in three straight contests, boasting goals in four of his last five starts. He seems to be heating up at the right time.
Head to head, this game shouldn’t be a challenge for the Caps, who have basically secured the top spot in the Eastern Conference. It’s become clear that Ovechkin’s teammates are trying to get him the puck to break this record sooner rather than later.
Alex Ovechkin 2+ goals
Alex Ovechkin 4+ shots
Capitals moneyline
Ovechkin is averaging 3.67 shots per game this season, but for a game like tonight, you have to imagine he will be extra fired up to make history on home ice. The Blackhawks are also not a strong defensive team, allowing the third most shots against per game in the NHL (31.1).
The Capitals should have full control over this game. Despite losing four of their last five games, Washington netminder Charlie Lindgren holds a .904 SV% and a 2.54 GAA in his last six starts.
Learn how to bet a same-game parlay with these helpful tips and strategies.
Ovechkin has scored in three straight games. Find more NHL betting trends for Blackhawks vs. Capitals.
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Jonny Lazarus has loved hockey for as long as he can remember. After his Division I playing career at UMass-Amherst and Mercyhurst University came to an end in 2020, he transitioned from being a player to working in the media. He might be young in his career, but he has made appearances in numerous places like the NHL, and Bleacher Report, and this season he will be doing color commentary for a selection of UMass-Amherst hockey games.
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