Washington at Colorado

Colorado is home but has all kinds of problems, #17 in goals scored, #21 in goals allowed. The Avalanche were outshot 24-11 through the first two periods and lost 3-1 at St. Louis on Tuesday, their third defeat in four games. The absence of leading scorers Matt Duchene and Nathan MacKinnon from the lineup due to knee injuries are a huge blow down the stretch, both uncertain to play Friday. Colorado has totaled three goals in its last three defeats. Washington is off a rare loss, but is 39-14 after scoring two or fewer goals in their previous game. Washington is second in the NHL in goals scored and on the power play, and first in goals allowed. Washington has taken the last three meetings in the series and routed Colorado 7-3 in the only meeting this season. The Capitals are also 38-15 playing on one day of rest and hold all the cards. Take Washington.