The Penguins and Capitals clash with major playoff implications

The Pittsburgh Penguins are set to take on division rivals the Washington Capitals today at 7pm EST with major playoff implications on the line for both teams

With a Pittsburgh win tonight, they would move to just one point behind the Washington Capitals. If the Caps win, they can get some room between themselves and the Penguins.

This is turning out to be the first playoff game for both teams.




According to moneypuck.com, the Penguins are currently sitting with a 14.7% chance of making the playoffs. The Capitals have a 54.6% chance. A win for the Penguins tonight can drastically change this.

If the Penguins win in regulation, their odds increase to 23.23%. A Capitals win in regulation gives them a 68.73% chance of making the playoffs. If the Pens lose, they drop back down to only a 5% chance.

The New York Islanders, who are two points ahead of the Penguins also faceoff tonight against the Columbus Blue Jackets. If they were to lose their playoff odds drop from 25% to 12.3%.

With the Penguins sitting at 79 points in the standings a win not only puts them one point behind the Capitals, they would also be one point behind Detroit who sits tied in points with the Caps at 82.

You could not write up a better matchup and rivalry for a playoff spot then the Penguins vs Capitals.

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