Continuing the program of the NHL playoffs of the 2021 season, the Eastern division duel, we are once again waiting for the battle of bright and experienced teams, "Washington" against "Boston". The start of the game is scheduled for May 18 at 02: 30 Moscow time. Our portal has prepared its forecast for this confrontation for you.
Washington Capitals»
Washington has shown excellent form this season, which allowed the team to take the final second place in the division. Now the Russian legionnaires are out, and if Ovechkin managed to recover from the injury, then Kuznetsov and Samsonov will miss the game for disciplinary reasons. In the first game, the Caps players showed their best qualities and outplayed the opponent in shots and all key indicators, but could not win in regular time. Still, in overtime, they caught the opponent on a fast attack and got the first victory.
Boston Bruins»
Recently, the bears managed to get in good shape. So after a disastrous start to the season and problems with the coronavirus, the Boston players regained their place in the playoffs and even clung to third place. The team's defense looks balanced, and in the frame, Raasc has gained form by the end of the championship, which has already shown its skill in the first game of the playoffs, making 29 saves. In general, you need to add "bears" arrogance in the attack, and with the defense they have a complete order.
Injuries and disqualifications:
- Injuries:
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Washington - Malensteen (achilles injury), Lundqvist (heart problems), Kuznetsov (injury unknown).
Boston-Moore (illness).
Statistics and figures
- The last match between these teams ended in a 3-2 victory for Washington.
- Boston has two wins in its last five games.
- Washington has a three-game winning streak at home.
Forecast
It is difficult to single out a favorite in this meeting, because both teams have experienced and balanced lineups. "Washington" has been showing itself well recently, and got a hard victory in the first meeting, but "Boston" after the first game, the mood is a little spoiled by an offensive defeat. I think that in the second meeting, the Capitals will also be stronger.
