Carolina Hurricanes vs. Washington Capitals Game 1: Picks, Predictions, Odds and Player Props

The Carolina Hurricanes and Washington Capitals kick off their second-round battle on Tuesday, with Game 1 taking place in the nation's capital.

Capital One Arena will be rocking as the Capitals continue their impressive season, but they welcome in an extremely worthy opponent in the Hurricanes.

These two split the season series, which could be a tell on how this series will go. It is expected to be long and hard-fought, as each looks to make their way out of the Metropolitan Division. 

After both teams finished their respective Round 1 series’ in five games, they should each be fully rested. However, it won't take long for intensity to find its way into this game.

To get you set for what will be great NHL Playoffs action, here are our Hurricanes vs. Capitals predictions and the betting odds for the game.

Carolina Hurricanes vs. Washington Capitals betting picks and predictions

Washington Capitals Moneyline (+105)

After winning the Metropolitan Division and securing home ice for the first three rounds, the Washington Capitals enter this game as slight underdogs.

It is understood that the Carolina Hurricanes are elite, but at this stage in the game, we have seen enough evidence that either team could take this game and this series.

The Capitals have been a great surprise this season, as they have lit up the league with just a handful of big NHL names.

However, their depth and unsung contributors have been the key to their success, which makes them a threat to win the Stanley Cup.

Carolina may see soon enough that no matter what line is out for Washington, they will have to be vigilant in all aspects.

Capitals appear to be the more dynamic team, even though Carolina has scored at a higher rate and have given up less goals per game during these playoffs.

After walking through a far-weaker New Jersey Devils outfit, I think Carolina will quickly be reminded of how strong Washington can be.

Under 5.5 Total Goals (+100)

The Capitals and Hurricanes both dominated their Round 1 series, and are at the top of the NHL playoffs in goals against average, both well under 2.5 goals against per game.

They each played far-worse opponents, but those types of defensive results are what make them thrive. 

Until these players get their feet wet in the series, I expect Game 1 to be full of physicality and grit, as opposed to a fast pace and sloppiness.

They are full of veterans who have been in these situations before, and coaching teams that are getting their message across.

Not only in Game 1, we may see a defensive feel during the action, in what looks set to be an incredibly tight battle, with goals likely to be at a premium.

Alex Ovechkin Over 3.5 Shots on Goal (+105)

Alex Ovechkin is 39 years old, and while he is still a pure superstar in this league, he is obviously running out of chances to add another Stanley Cup to his trophy case.

If anyone should be motivated within this series, it is this generational player.

In the first round against the Montreal Canadiens, Ovechkin dominated with four goals and one assist in five games. He also added 19 shots to this total (3.8 per game).

When looking closer at his shooting statistics, he shot the puck far more in highly important games.

Setting the tone with a Game 1 win is imperative as the playoffs progress, so expect Ovechkin to be leaned on heavily as usual and lead his team.

When Ovechkin is at his best, he is shooting lots and burying the puck. Whether the Capitals trail or are holding a lead, 4+ shots from the talented veteran is more than possible.

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Carolina Hurricanes vs. Washington Capitals odds

CAR Hurricanes	-125 ML
WAS Capitals	+105 ML
Puck Line	CAR -1.5 (+205)
Total	O/U 5.5

Carolina Hurricanes vs. Washington Capitals player props

Anytime Goalscorer

Alex Ovechkin (WAS)	+135
Sebastian Aho (CAR)	+170
Seth Jarvis (CAR)	+170
Andrei Svechnikov (CAR)	+220
Dylan Strome (WAS)	+240
Taylor Hall (CAR)	+280

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This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.