Washington at Pittsburgh

Washington is far better than it looked in the first two games. They are ranked third in the NHL in goals scored and on the power play, tops in goals allowed (2.2 per game), and seventh in penalty killing. Before the last game, a 6-2 defeat, Washington had been on a 14-4 run with only two of the losses by more than one goal. Washington is 25-12-3 on the road and 39-12 playing on one day of rest. Pittsburgh is not a great defensive squad, #17 in goals allowed and #20 in penalty killing. Pittsburgh is up 2-0, but has not been consistent in the series. In the 6-2 win Saturday in Game 2, the Penguins withstood a first period that was dominated by the Capitals, yet wound up scoreless. The Penguins are 1-7 when their opponent allows five goals or more in their previous game. And they face a talented and balanced Capitals team that is 63-29 after scoring two goals or less in their previous game. The wagering value is on the dog to win the game or lose by one goal. Play Washington on the Puckline.