Boston at Washington

Washington enjoyed a 20-point improvement in 2024-25 after overhauling a third of its roster, and the Capitals expect to be even better this season as the younger players continue to progress. The Caps have a solid goaltender in Logan Thompson, who was a Vezina Trophy candidate until injuries sidelined him for a time. Thompson finished 31-6-6 with a 2.49 goals-against average. Washington was the only team with seven 20-goal scorers and seven 50-point scorers. Five players had or tied career highs in goals, assists, and points, and six defensemen reached the 20-point mark for the Capitals. Boston is picked to finish last in the Atlantic Division following a tumultuous season, and the Bruins have a new coach in Marco Sturm. Jeremy Swayman did not have one of his best years after a contract dispute in training camp. He was 22-29-7 with a 3.11 GAA and a .892 save percentage. The Bruins lost 13 of their final 16 games and eight of 10 on the road. Take the Capitals on the puck line.