The Washington Capitals (1-4-1) look for their second win of the season when they visit the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Capitals have had a hard time adjusting to new head coach Adam Oates and his system. The team has struggled to score and the defense has been shaky in the early going. Heading into Thursday's game, Washington has the 29th best defense in the league and the 24th best offense. The team's power play ranks 22nd and its penalty kill is the 26th best in the league. Russian superstar Alex Ovechkin has recorded just one goal despite playing during the lockout in Russia. Braden Holtby was expected to be the number goaltender, but struggled in the early going; Michael Neuvirth has seemingly taken over the job with four straight starts. The Capitals are coming off a 3-2 lead in which they blew a 2-0 advantage.
Toronto picked up a huge win on Tuesday over the Buffalo Sabres. After losing to the New York Rangers and Islanders, the Leafs blew a 3-2 lead against Buffalo. However, with one second to go Matt Frattin won the game in overtime for the Maple Leafs. James Reimer has started the last two games and should get the call in goal on Thursday.
Washington won three of four meetings between the teams last year. A win tonight would give the Capitals four straight wins over Toronto.
Predictions: Both teams have shown erratic play; Toronto is home and seems to look stronger offensively. 4-2 Toronto.
Start Time: 7 PM EST
TV: CSN-DC, SNET-Ontario
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