Ottawa at Washington

Washington is the No. 1 defensive team in the NHL, yielding only 1.8 goals per game. The Capitals made it six wins in their last seven games, cooling off Columbus on the road last night, 5-1. The Blue Jackets entered last night's matchup against Washington having defeated the Lightning and Stars in their previous two games. The Capitals have allowed two or fewer goals in six of their last seven games. They have surrendered only one goal in each of the previous two games. There have been fewer than seven goals scored in seven of Washington's eight games this season. Ottawa has shown defensive improvement in its last two games, giving up only three goals in regulation against the Flyers and Oilers. Ottawa has a below-average offense, ranking 19th in goals scored. The Senators are missing injured Brady Tkachuk. The Capitals are likely to play a more conservative game here with backup goalie Charlie Lindgren projected in net. Lindgren has a 1-0 shutout of the Rangers during one of his two starts this season. The Senators are 2-5 in their last seven games. Look for the Capitals to effectively control the pace and get the victory in what should be a low-scoring game. Take the Capitals and the UNDER.