LiontipsWashington vs Columbus. Prediction and Betting Tips for NHL (February 9, 2022).
Command Analysis
Washington have dropped to the 7th line in the Eastern Conference table. Recently, the Capitals have looked colorless and have struggled to win several games in a row. Despite that dip in form, they managed to crush Dallas (5:0) and prevailed over Pittsburgh (4:3 ОТ) away. At home, the Capitals lost to Edmonton (3:5).
The team continues to play without Alexander Ovechkin, who is in quarantine. The hosts make too many mistakes in defense and allow their opponents a lot of freedom in their zone. They concede an average of three goals per game.
Columbusare unlikely to make the playoffs this season as they are 14 points behind the playoff zone. Moreover, the team can't mount a winning streak and at most record two victories in a row. For example, the Blue Jackets recently broke a string of three defeats by beating the Rangers (5:3) and Montreal (6:3), but then lost Florida at home with a score of 4:8.
In general, Brad Larsen's side have huge defensive problems and often concede more than three goals in one game. The Blue Jackets also have poor results away: they won only four games in regulation this season.
Trends
СтавкаColumbus IT under 2.5 goals
In 2 out of 3 games against Washington, Columbus scored no more than 2 goals.
Ставка1st period: total over 1.5 goals
In 4 out of 5 Columbus games, more than one goal was scored in the first period.
Tip and bets
Even though Washington are playing without Ovechkin, they are a better team at the moment. The Blue Jackets look unconvincing away from home and often lose to league leaders by a large margin. We will be backing the Capitals in this fixture.
Our prediction - Washington to win
Columbus rely on open attacking actions this season, and Washington concede a lot. We believe that today the opponents will be able to score more than five goals.
Second bet - total over 5.5 goals
