As the Washington Capitals gear up for a crucial matchup against the Buffalo Sabres, they look to break a three-game losing streak. This game marks the first of three meetings this season between the two teams, taking place in Buffalo, where the Caps have struggled in recent visits. Their last win in western New York occurred on March 25, 2022, during a shootout victory.
Caps Face Challenges in Buffalo
The Capitals have not won in regulation at this venue since April 9, 2021. In the past four games against the Sabres played on their ice, Washington has been outscored 20-11 and holds a record of 0-3-1. Buffalo claims momentum as they have also faced a losing streak but collected points in each loss through overtime.
Key Player Updates
- P-L Dubois suffered a lower body injury and is considered day-to-day.
- Dylan Strome, returning from injury, will be a game-time decision.
- Spencer Smallman, recalled from AHL Hershey, may make his NHL debut if Strome cannot play.
Both teams enter this game with a sense of urgency. The Capitals, under coach Spencer Carbery, aim to avoid falling into a four-game losing streak in regulation for the first time during his tenure.
John Carlson’s Milestone Game
Defensive standout John Carlson will be playing in his 1,100th NHL game. He has been a key player for the Caps, previously achieving his 700th career point during a game against the Sabres earlier this year, making him one of the few defensemen to reach this milestone.
Prospect Contract Update
In other news, the Capitals have signed prospect Ivan Miroshnichenko to a two-year contract extension worth $1.85 million. Selected 20th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, Miroshnichenko has made notable strides in his career, including an impressive start to his North American professional season.
Goalkeeping Situation
Charlie Lindgren is set to start in goal for the Capitals. He has faced a demanding schedule, having faced 34 or more shots in two of his three starts this season. Conversely, the Sabres are likely to rely on Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen as their netminder.
Potential Lineup
Here’s how the Capitals might line up tonight:
- Forwards: Beauvillier, Strome, Ovechkin; Protas, McMichael, Wilson; Milano, Lapierre, Leonard; Duhaime, Dowd, Sourdif.
- Defensemen: Fehervary, Carlson; Chychrun, Roy; van Riemsdyk, Chisholm.
- Goaltenders: Lindgren, Thompson.
As the Capitals take the ice, they are determined to shake off their recent performances and find their rhythm against a formidable Sabres team.
