Carolina Hurricanes (21-13-4) vs. Washington Capitals (18-11-6)
Carolina Hurricanes vs. Washington Capitals 1/5/24 – On Friday, the Carolina Hurricanes will play against Washington Capitals in an NHL regular season matchup that is sure to be epic. The Hurricanes boasting 21-13-4 in records will meet off against 18-11-6 Capitals; both teams boasting high-caliber play that defines NHL. Fans searching for NHL free tips and advice, will find this matchup especially fascinating due to each side having distinct strengths and weaknesses that make up each squad.
The Hurricanes’ dynamic offense is led by Sebastian Aho, a center with 43 points (15 goals and 28 assists). Aho’s presence on the ice cannot be overlooked, creating scoring chances which will be essential against Washington Capitals defense. Seth Jarvis and Martin Necas have also played key roles in driving Hurricanes offense, although their road performance suggests there could be vulnerabilities exploited by Capitals defense.
The Capitals boast their own array of offensive stars. Alex Ovechkin is an aging left-wing who may not be goal scoring as efficiently this year but still manages 22 points (8 goals, 14 assists). Dylan Strome and John Carlson offer additional depth on offense with Strome’s shooting percentage standing out. For their part, Carolina Hurricanes must remain wary as this trio could potentially prove too much for them against.
Carolina Hurricanes vs. Washington Capitals 1/5/24 Game Info
| When: | Friday, January 5, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Capital One Arena |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov vs. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper
Pyotr Kochetkov has provided steady play in the crease recently. Over his last five starts, Kochetkov has allowed just 1.80 goals per game while making over 30 saves three times. Hen seems to be settling into the starting role nicely. He should be poised to put up another strong performance tonight against an average Washington offense. If Kochetkov can limit the Capitals to under three goals, Carolina should have a great chance to come away with two points.
On the other side, Darcy Kuemper has struggled badly in net for Washington this season. The veteran posts dreadful numbers across the board including an .893 save percentage and 3.15 GAA. Kuemper has been especially porous recently, allowing 4+ goals in three of his last four outings. With the Hurricanes averaging over three goals per game as a team, they should be licking their chops at the chance to pepper Kuemper with shots tonight. If he doesn’t suddenly improve his play, this game could get out of hand fast for the Capitals.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As the betting odds for the game are yet to be determined, it’s essential to keep an eye on the developments. The odds will offer insights into how the betting community views the strengths and weaknesses of both teams.
Carolina Hurricanes Betting Trends
The Hurricanes enter this game ice-cold against the spread having failed to cover in five straight contests. Carolina is just 7-15 ATS on the road as well. However, the Canes defense has held opponents under three goals in four of the last five outings. If Kochetkov can continue that stinginess tonight, Carolina should fare well straight up even if they don’t cover the puckline.
Washington Capitals Betting Trends
Despite Kuemper’s struggles in net, Washington has gone over the total in three of its last five overall. The Capitals are also a profitable 8-10 ATS at home this season. However, Washington is allowing opponents to score on over 30% of their power play chances. Against a dangerous Hurricanes man advantage that converts over 25% of opportunities, that trends spells trouble tonight.
Carolina Hurricanes vs. Washington Capitals 1/5/24 Betting Picks
Given the current trends and team strengths, this game promises to be a closely contested battle. The Hurricanes’ offensive prowess, led by Aho, will clash with the Capitals’ defensive strategies and Kuemper’s goaltending. Conversely, the Capitals’ offense will test Kochetkov’s capabilities in the Hurricanes’ goal.
In expert premium analysis picks, one must consider the Hurricanes’ road game vulnerabilities and the Capitals’ relative strength against the spread at home. The game might be swayed by key individual performances and how well each team capitalizes on its chances.
Free Pick and Prediction: Washington Capitals 5, Carolina Hurricanes 2.