Kicking off a 16-game NHL slate is a game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Washington Capitals. This is the first matchup between the two this season, and they begin what should be a great day in the NHL. Two of the league’s best goal scorers in Auston Matthews and Alex Ovechkin will be playing in this game, but each team has somewhat underperformed to start the season. This should be a fun game in the nation’s capital.
The Maple Leafs are the stronger team in this matchup by far, and they should earn the win when this is said and done. If not for a late comeback in their previous game, they would have lost three straight games. This means they should realize they need to step it up quick. That game saw a triumphant 4-3 overtime win after being down 3-1 in the third period, and that performance can be a spark the team needs. I expect to see a much better effort for the full game. Washington has started 1-2-1, so they are not hot either. However, even on home ice, they may be in over their heads against a stacked Maple Leafs roster. Take the Toronto Maple Leafs to earn the road win, getting their team back on track.
Maple Leafs ML (-165) available at time of publishing. Playable at that number.
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