Archive note: Technical commentary has been removed. This remains historical pregame coverage; original selections have been retained where stated.
Washington Capitals vs New Jersey Devils Prediction - April 02, 2026
Note: Final picks on our picks page may differ from this article's prediction, as they incorporate last-minute goalie confirmations, injury updates, and live odds closer to game time. Always check the picks page for the most up-to-date selections.
The Washington Capitals travel to New Jersey for a pivotal late-season matchup against the Devils on April 2, 2026. Both teams are in similar situations—sitting at 6 wins in their last 10 games and hungry for wins in the stretch run. This Capitals vs Devils prediction game features two well-matched opponents with contrasting playing styles, making for one of the more intriguing NHL picks of the evening.
Team Form & Recent Performance
Washington enters this contest with a 6-2-2 record across their recent sample, capturing 3 wins in their last 5 games. The Capitals are riding decent momentum and come into New Jersey with a normal schedule—one day of rest separates them from their previous outing, eliminating any back-to-back fatigue concerns.
New Jersey sits at 6-4-0 in their last 10, also posting 3 wins over their final five games. The Devils, like the Capitals, have a full day of rest and are not playing on a back-to-back, so both teams arrive well-rested. This even footing sets the stage for a matchup decided primarily by on-ice execution and underlying performance metrics rather than injury or fatigue circumstances.
Here's where the Capitals vs Devils prediction becomes more nuanced. New Jersey holds a clear edge in possession-based metrics and expected performance indicators.
Despite these analytical advantages favoring New Jersey, this Capitals Devils pick isn't a clear-cut case.
Goalie Matchup
Washington's L. Thompson enters with a solid 27-20-6 record, while New Jersey counters with J. Markstrom at 22-18-1. Thompson's win-loss record is superior, though both goalies are performing at roughly similar levels in terms of this season's overall body of work. Markstrom's recent form and the Devils' shot volume advantage could create more high-leverage saves, potentially swinging momentum in critical moments.
Prediction
WP Hockey Predictor's Pick: Washington Capitals (Slight-Lean confidence tier)
In matchups this close, recent performance trends and team momentum often prove decisive—and Washington's 3-win surge gives them the narrowest of edges.
For NHL picks tonight, consider Dylan Strome as an anytime goalscorer option for Washington, while Jack Hughes remains a compelling selection for New Jersey's side.
Want to run your own analysis?
Note: Final picks on our picks page may differ from this article's prediction, as they incorporate last-minute goalie confirmations, injury updates, and live odds closer to game time. Always check the picks page for the most up-to-date selections.