The set-up: I think these two heated rivals will play to more of a lower-scoring goaltenders battle tonight. Washington is 20-12, but Pittsburgh is just 15-18. Pittsburgh is out to atone for a 4-2 home loss to Anaheim, while Washington enters off a 4-3 shootout win over Buffalo. Pittsburgh is averaging 3.36 GPG and allowing 3.21. Matt Murray gets the call in net for the Pens and he's a solid 3-1 with a 2.47 GAA on the road this season. Washington averages 3.72 GPG and it allows 3.09. Braden Holtby gets the nod between the pipes for the home side and he's 8-5 with a 2.78 GAA at home.

The pick: The stage is now set for these two competent netminders to "steal the show." Note as well that Pittsburgh has seen the total go "under" in five of eight already this year vs. the division, while Washington has seen the total go "under" in 15 of its last 24 home games when the total in the contest is set at 6 or higher. This number is high, play the "under."

8* play