The Carolina Hurricanes, currently leading the Metropolitan Division with a record of 33-15-3, are set to face off against the Washington Capitals at Capital One Arena today, with puck drop scheduled for 5 p.m. This matchup finds the Hurricanes among the league’s most formidable teams, boasting an impressive 7-1-2 record in their last ten games.
January has been a standout month for Hurricanes forward Andrei Svechnikov, who has notched 10 goals and 9 assists so far, exceeding his previous monthly high of eight goals and total points of 17. In recent performances, he has scored seven goals in his last six contests. Furthermore, defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere is enjoying a solid season, contributing 35 points over 36 games.
In preparation for the match, the Hurricanes did not have a morning skate, but they practiced their lines yesterday, which are expected to feature Svechnikov alongside Aho and Jarvis on the top line. The remaining lines for Carolina include Blake, Stankoven, and Hall; Ehlers, Staal, and Martinook; and Carrier, Jankowski, and Kotkaniemi on the lower lines. On defense, Slavin and Chatfield are paired together, while Miller and Walker, along with Nikishin and Gostisbehere, round out the defensive units. With Bussi starting in the last game, Fred Andersen is expected to take the net tonight.
On the other side, the Capitals come into the game after a close 4-3 victory over the Detroit Red Wings, though they have struggled recently with a 3-6-1 record over their last ten games. The Capitals’ lines are expected to feature prominent names, including Alex Ovechkin alongside Dylan Strome and Anthony Beauvillier. Other notable players include Connor McMichael, whom Carolina’s defense will need to monitor closely.
The Capitals are currently navigating some challenges, including a potential absence of star goalie Logan Thompson, who was held out of the last game due to injury. He is listed as day-to-day, leaving uncertainty around who will start in goal for Washington.
Fans can catch the game broadcast on Fan Duel Sports Network, where familiar play-by-play and color commentators will provide coverage. With the Hurricanes riding a wave of momentum and the Capitals looking to regain footing, this matchup promises to deliver exciting hockey action.