We have Game 5 on tap tonight with the series tied, and would we have it any other way than a tied series with these two teams? Classic Penguins vs. Capitals in the playoffs, and at this rate, we should be on our way to a Game 7. We’ve seen it all in this series, some great goaltending in some games, and some high scoring in other ones. It can make it a bit tough to nail down what will end up happening in any one game.
Game Play Predictions
Pittsburgh Penguins
- The Penguins have scored three or more goals in three of the four games this series, a trend which they are continuing from the first-round.
- Seven different players recorded a point in Game 4, with only one of those players being a defenseman.
- Matt Murray has allowed four goals in the two losses, but only three goals combined over the two wins.
- The Penguins had five players take two or more shots, with three of those players being at three shots or higher.
- The Penguins were 2 for 4 on the power play in Game 4.
Players to Watch
Jake Guentzel – Guentzel has 10 goals in the playoffs so far and continues to be one of the shining young players for the Penguins. First forward line and second power-play units should provide him with enough opportunities to continue this trend.
Matt Murray – Murray has looked great in the wins, and bad in the losses. Much of the game depends on him, and how they are able to slow down the Capitals on offense. A lot of risks here, but plenty of upside for him.
Phil Kessel – Kessel only has one goal and seven points this postseason, which is simply terrible. They need him to return to his form from last season, which will ultimately give their offense a massive boost.
Washington Capitals
- The Capitals have given up three or more goals in three of the four games this series.
- Their power-play is 2 for 7 over their past two games, a rate which needs to improve on if this series continues being this close.
- Alex Ovechkin was held without a shot on goal in Game 5, so look for a massive bounce back for him, we’re talking close to 10 shots in this game.
- The Capitals had six players take two or more shots in Game 4, but were only able to put one past Matt Murray.
Players to Watch
Alex Ovechkin – As I mentioned above, Ovi had no shots on goal in the previous game, and you have to assume he will come out firing in this game. Their best offensive player needs to do something to put some points on the board.
Nicklas Backstrom – Backstrom won 11 face-offs in Game 4, which was a team high, and with him being on the first power-play, they need him to be consistent to give their offense more chances in the zone.
Braden Holtby – Holtby was very disappointing in the regular season, and we’ve seen much of the same in the playoffs. Highest of highs, and lowest of lows. He has given up three or more goals in three of the four games series, which isn’t sustainable for wins against this powerful Penguins offense.