The Toronto Maple Leafs head to the U.S. capital for a matchup with the Washington Capitals, with both teams looking to build on wins from their previous outings. Welcome back to another edition of NHL Predictions with Last Word On Hockey. The Capitals enter this one riding a strong stretch, winning five of their last six games and tightening up defensively under Spencer Carbery. Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs snapped a two-game skid with an overtime victory against the Blue Jackets, a game that saw their young stars step up when it mattered most.
NHL Predictions: Leafs vs Capitals
2025-26 Head-to-Head: Leafs 0-0 Capitals
Time: 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)
How to Watch: TSN 4, Monumental, ESPN+
Toronto Maple Leafs vs Washington Capitals: Game Preview
The Capitals enter this matchup playing confident, structured hockey. Their defensive game has tightened significantly, allowing them to stay competitive even in low-scoring battles. Logan Thompson has been sharp between the pipes, giving Washington the stability it’s needed in net. He’s making his case for Team Canada, almost undeniable. Their veteran core, Alex Ovechkin, John Carlson, and Dylan Strome, has found a steady rhythm at the perfect time. Washington’s ability to slow the game down, clog up the neutral zone, and force opponents into a grinding style has been a major reason for their recent success. If the Capitals apply lots of offensive pressure they will have lots of opportunities to score.
Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs come into Washington looking to build on the momentum of their dramatic overtime win against the Blue Jackets. Toronto continues to rely heavily on its top stars to generate offence, and with Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies trending toward full health, the Leafs’ attack is starting to look more complete. William Nylander and John Tavares remain the engines of the forward group, while Easton Cowan’s emergence gives the middle six an extra burst of speed and creativity. Yet, consistency remains the question. Toronto still needs more from its depth forwards and must tighten up defensively, especially in front of Joseph Woll. Special teams could ultimately be the deciding factor, with the Leafs’ power play struggling to convert at its usual elite level and Washington’s penalty kill holding strong during their recent run. The Maple Leafs will have to try and contain Washington’s offence by clogging the middle of the ice and forcing lots of dump-ins. With Joseph Woll in the net and a sound defensive game, the Maple Leafs will have a chance to win the game.
Prediction & Key Bets
Final Score Prediction: Capitals 3, Maple Leafs 2 (OT)
This matchup has all the makings of a tight, defensive game. Toronto’s skill gives them a chance on any night, but Washington’s recent form, home-ice advantage, and ability to control pace may give them the edge. Expect a fast, physical matchup that comes down to goaltending and late-game execution. The Leafs push it to overtime, but the Capitals’ current momentum helps them steal the extra point.
Best Betting Angles:
Moneyline: Washington wins
Total Goals: Over 6.0 goals, both teams have high skill, and they can both produce a lot of goals.
Player Prop: Auston Matthews anytime goal
Main Photo Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
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