The Washington Capitals are facing tough challenges as they prepare to host the Los Angeles Kings at Capital One Arena on Monday night. The Capitals have managed only two victories in their last ten games, putting them in a difficult position with just 18 points, which lands them at the bottom of the Metropolitan Division and 14th in the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, the Kings boast an impressive 9-1-2 road record this season and currently lead the Pacific Division with 24 points, placing them third in the Western Conference and fifth overall in the NHL.
Head coach Spencer Carbery recognizes the strength of the Kings’ defense, labeling them as one of the NHL’s best. He emphasized the challenges his team faces, particularly their difficulties in scoring goals. “They limit all the things that you try to do offensively,” Carbery noted. “They’re usually right at the top or they are at the top of those statistics. Limiting time and space, not giving you high-danger opportunities. Very rare to get an odd-man rush against them.”
In goal for Los Angeles, former Capitals goaltender Darcy Kuemper is expected to start. Kuemper previously shut out the Capitals during their last encounter in March in Los Angeles. For Washington, Charlie Lindgren will be in net, stepping in after not starting since November 6th.
The Capitals will face a busy schedule, playing again on Wednesday at home against the Edmonton Oilers before heading to Montreal on Thursday. Carbery mentioned that the decision to return Lindgren to the net was made after careful consideration of the team’s schedule.
There’s also a potential boost for the Capitals as defenseman John Carlson, who missed the last game due to an upper-body injury, was part of the morning skate. His status remains uncertain, with Carbery indicating that Carlson will be a game-time decision.
As the Capitals look to turn their season around, fans can catch the action live starting at 7 p.m., with coverage available on the Monumental Sports Network and radio on WJFK (106.7 FM).
A strong performance could set the tone not just for this game, but for the upcoming contests, and give the Capitals a much-needed boost in their quest for a better standing in the league.