The set-up: These teams are moving in opposite directions right now and I look for those trends to continue here. The Capitals enter off a 3-1 road win over the Islanders, while the Rangers come in off a 4-2 home loss to the Canadiens. Washington is now tied atop the Metro with the Islanders after that victory, so with a chance to claim the No. 1 position completely with a win here, I believe the defending champs continue their late season push towards the playoffs. Washington is 18-14 on the road, averaging 3.22 goals and allowing 3.38 in those games. The Rangers are 16-18 at home, averaging 2.85 and allowing 2.74.

The pick: Take it for what you will though, but New York is just 15-37 in its last 52 after scoring two goals or less in its previous game, while Washington is 17-6 in its last 23 after allowing two goals or less in its previous contest. For all the reasons listed above, lay the price.

10* play