Los Angeles Kings (20-9-6) vs. Washington Capitals (18-12-6)
As the NHL season progresses, every game becomes crucial in determining the playoff contenders. The upcoming face-off between the Los Angeles Kings and the Washington Capitals on Sunday, is no exception. This match at the Capital One Arena promises to be an exciting clash. Fans and bettors alike are keen on making winning NHL picks for this high-stakes game, especially given the Kings’ impressive performance in recent outings and the Capitals’ resilience in overcoming challenges.
Los Angeles Kings have been on an impressive winning streak, thanks to an explosive offense led by Anze Kopitar’s 35 points (14 goals and 21 assists). Right-wing Adrian Kempe also contributes 35 points, providing depth in their attack. But the true hallmark of their success has been breaking down opposing defenses as evidenced by a 4-1 run over their last five games; now their offensive firepower will face Washington Capitals’ defense – which has shown some inconsistency but can hold their ground against aggressive attacks.
Conversely, the Washington Capitals boast their own arsenal of stars – particularly Alex Ovechkin on the left wing, who has 24 points this season and remains pivotal for their success. Center Dylan Strome and defenseman John Carlson round out an effective lineup; however their overall plus/minus rating indicates an area of vulnerability which the Kings’ resilient defense could exploit; their offensive strategy will need to be perfectly tailored in order to overcome it in away games.
Los Angeles Kings vs. Washington Capitals Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 3:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Capital One Arena |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Cam Talbot vs. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper
Cam Talbot has posted a 14-8-3 record with a 2.1 GAA, .925 save percentage, and two shutouts. He faces an average of 27.6 shots per game and saves 25.5. The Kings have given up the second-fewest goals in the league, thanks in large part to Talbot’s strong play. He excels at tracking the puck through traffic and controlling his rebounds. The Capitals offense ranks 21st in the league at 2.94 goals per game. For Washington to have a chance, they’ll need to generate offense by creating havoc around the net and second chance opportunities from the high danger areas.
For the Capitals, goaltender Darcy Kuemper has started 19 games for the Capitals, compiling a record of 9-8-2 with a 3.15 GAA and .893 save percentage. He sees an average of 28.6 shots per start and stops 25.6 of them. Kuemper can be prone to allowing soft goals from bad angles and through his five-hole. The Kings offense has weapons that can exploit those weaknesses, led by Kopitar, Kempe and Fiala. Los Angeles averages 3.31 goals per game, good for 6th best in the NHL. If Kuemper struggles early, the floodgates could open in this matchup. He must come out sharp and take away the prime scoring areas.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As the betting odds for this game are still to be determined, bettors are eagerly anticipating where the line will be set. The Kings’ recent form might make them the favorites, but the Capitals playing at home could balance the odds. The total odds will also be a point of interest, considering the offensive capabilities of both teams.
Los Angeles Kings Betting Trends
The Kings have had success recently, posting four wins out of their last five matches to earn them a 4-1 mark ATS over that same time period. On the road though they have had better ATS results with 10-6 record at 10-6 road win/ATS record which could bode well for this away fixture; one out of their last five games saw total go over, suggesting lower scoring matches are on the horizon.
Washington Capitals Betting Trends
The Capitals have had a mixed run in their last five games, compiling a 2-3 record but an improved 3-2 ATS mark. Although their home performance against the spread (8-10) may leave something to be desired, three out of their last five encounters saw total go over, suggesting an increased threat in higher scoring games at home.
Los Angeles Kings vs. Washington Capitals 1/7/24 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, this game is poised to be a close encounter. The Kings’ formidable offense against the Capitals’ slightly faltering defense suggests an advantage for the Kings. However, the Capitals playing at home with the potential for offensive sparks could level the playing field.
In terms of betting, the safer pick might be on the Kings, considering their recent form and the consistency of their key players. However, the Capitals could offer value, especially if the odds favor them as underdogs. Prop bets on individual player performances, like goals from Kopitar or Ovechkin, might be worth considering. As for the over/under, the trends suggest a leaning towards the over, especially given the Capitals’ recent high-scoring home games. For those looking for the best online betting opportunities, keeping an eye on the evolving odds and considering prop bets on key players could offer valuable returns.
