Dallas Stars (14-7-3) vs. Washington Capitals (12-8-2)
The Dallas Stars take on the Washington Capitals on Thursday night in an inter-conference showdown. Both teams come into this matchup playing inconsistent hockey lately, with Dallas going 2-5 in its last 7 while Washington is 2-4 over the past six. This will be the second and final meeting between these clubs this season. Free daily hockey tips lean towards the road favorites catching plus money.
The Stars boast one of the most potent attacks in the league, led by top scorers Joe Pavelski, Jason Robertson and Roope Hintz. This offensive firepower should be able to take advantage of Washington’s mediocre defense and struggling goaltending. However, Dallas’ own goaltending and defensive issues could make this a high-event back and forth contest.
Washington’s offense runs through captain Alex Ovechkin, but the supporting cast of John Carlson and Tom Wilson will need to step up here. The Caps have struggled to light the lamp this season, but could pounce on Dallas’ shaky defense and suspect goaltending. Still, breaking down the Stars’ responsible team defense is easier said than done.
Dallas Stars vs. Washington Capitals Game Info
| When: | Thursday, December 7, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Capital One Arena |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Jake Oettinger vs. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper
Jake Oettinger has been solid if unspectacular this season for Dallas, compiling a 10-6-2 record with a 2.67 GAA. However, his .911 save percentage leaves something to be desired. The 23-year-old netminder enjoyed a breakout campaign last season but has failed to take the next step in his development so far this year. While still young and brimming with potential, Oettinger’s inconsistent form is a concern facing one of the league’s most dangerous scorers in Ovechkin tonight. If he’s not seeing the puck clearly, Washington’s stars could make him pay dearly. Still, Oettinger did make a career-high 48 saves in a 5-4 Dallas win over Washington last year. He’ll need to recapture that form to slow down the Caps attack.
Darcy Kuemper has mightily disappointed in his first season in Washington, playing to a losing 5-6-2 record with an ugly 3.23 GAA and .887 save percentage. The former Cup winner with Colorado looks a shadow of his former self, lacking confidence and rhythm in the crease all season long. Kuemper has never established himself as an elite goalie, but this kind of steep decline was wholly unexpected. Against an explosive Dallas attack, he could be in for another rough outing tonight at Capital One Arena. Simply put, Kuemper has been a sieve all season, and that’s unlikely to change facing the Stars’ deep offense. Expect the visitors to get plenty of rubber on net, making life difficult throughout for the home side.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: Dallas Stars -145, Total Odds: 6
The betting odds favor the Dallas Stars, reflecting their stronger season performance. The puckline and moneyline suggest confidence in Dallas’s ability to control the game, while the total of 6 indicates expectations of a moderately high-scoring affair. Bettors should consider these odds while also factoring in recent performances and head-to-head statistics.
Dallas Stars Betting Trends
The Stars have shown a tendency to push games over the total, with 8 of their last 11 games exceeding the total goals line. However, their recent road game record is mixed, being 2-5 SU in their last 7 games. Their history against Washington, particularly in away games, is overwhelmingly positive, which might influence betting trends in their favor.
Washington Capitals Betting Trends
Washington’s recent form shows a preference for lower-scoring games, with the total going UNDER in 11 of their last 16. Their home game performance also leans towards the UNDER, which could influence betting strategies. However, their record against Dallas, especially at home, is a point of concern.
Dallas Stars vs. Washington Capitals 12/7/23 Betting Picks
Considering the statistics and trends, this game appears to be a closely contested battle. The Stars, with their solid offense and strong goaltending, have an edge, but the Capitals’ ability to play tight, low-scoring games could level the playing field.
For the final pick, considering the Stars’ historical dominance over the Capitals, especially in Washington, and their current form, Dallas seems to be the safer bet. However, the potential for a low-scoring game suggests considering the UNDER on total goals. When it comes to prop bets, paying attention to individual performers like Pavelski or Ovechkin could offer additional betting opportunities. As some of the best sports handicappers would advise, it’s essential to weigh recent performances and player matchups alongside historical trends.
Free Pick and Prediction: Dallas Stars 3, Washington Capitals 1