The Capitals whipped the Blue Jackets last week in Columbus, and now face them at home. The Blue Jackets are playing their 2nd game in two nights on Sunday. Columbus is appalling on the road at just 2-12 this year. The Capitals are a strong home team and will be much tougher to play against with the return of Backstrom and everyone's favorite, Tom Wilson. The Blue Jackets are not as fortunate, still with a very long list of injuries. Ranking 30th in both goals scored and PP, and 31st in goals allowed, they will have their hands full against the Capitals' top ten offense and defense.
Merzlikins (4.78,.861 SV %) had an ugly game vs the Capitals in his first appearance in nearly a month. It has been a tough season for him, not helped by an exceptionally poor and depleted defense in front of him. Kuemper will start for Washington tonight, and he has been steady.
With just 2 wins in the last 10 games, Columbus is a very large underdog today. They upset the 'Canes in Columbus last night in a shoot-out, managing just 18 shots while giving up 42. They travel today, and there is little chance of another win tonight. Take the Capitals in a repeat performance, winning on the puck line at -1 1/2.