The Washington Capitals host the Detroit Red Wings in the early window of tonight's NHL slate. Washington is a -196 favorite, while the total is set at 6.5.
Washington forward Tom Wilson has scored nine goals over his last 15 games, and this trend is likely to continue, as I explain in my Red Wings vs. Capitals predictions below.
Read on for my NHL picks for Tuesday, March 18.
Red Wings vs Capitals prediction
My best bet: Tom Wilson anytime goal (+210 at FanDuel)
My analysis
Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson’s impressive offensive stretch over the past two months coincides with the Detroit Red Wings’ recent defensive woes. Over that same stretch, Detroit ranks 22nd in the league in xGA/60.
Backing up this defensively poor team is goaltender Petr Mrazek, who has surrendered three or more goals in 16 of his last 19 starts. Mrazek is 5-12-1 over that stretch with a .875 SV% and 3.95 GAA.
Meanwhile, Wilson presents a threat to score at both even strength and on the power play, given that he leads the Capitals in goals on the man-advantage. This presents a particularly advantageous opportunity against the Red Wings, as they rank last in penalty-kill percentage.
Washington's offense has been humming in recent games, too, scoring four or more goals in four of their last five, with the lone exception coming in a shutout loss vs. the Kings' elite defense.
Wilson scored in the last meeting between these two teams a couple of weeks ago, and considering the aforementioned variables, I like him to find the back of the net again this evening.
Red Wings vs Capitals same-game parlay (SGP)
Tom Wilson anytime goal
Dylan Strome 1+ assists
Capitals moneyline
If we are backing Wilson to find the back of the net, then there is an increased probability of Dylan Strome recording an assist. The primary facilitator on the team, Strome skates alongside Wilson on both the first line and the top power-play unit. Plus, Strome has assisted on two of Wilson’s last three goals.
If they both contribute offensively, Washington’s chances of winning increase. Washington is the stronger team and has won three of the last four meetings between these two clubs.
Learn how to bet a same-game parlay with these helpful tips and strategies.
Red Wings vs Capitals odds
Red Wings vs Capitals live odds
Red Wings vs Capitals opening odds
- Puck line: Detroit +1.5 (-155) | Washington -1.5 (+130)
- Moneyline: Detroit +165 | Washington -200
- Over/Under: Over 6.5 (+105) | Under 6.5 (-125)
Red Wings vs Capitals trend
Tom Wilson has scored nine goals over his last 15 games. Find more NHL betting trends for Red Wings vs. Capitals.
How to watch Red Wings vs Capitals
| Location | Capital One Arena, Washington, DC |
| Date | Tuesday, 3-18-2025 |
| Puck drop | 7:00 p.m. ET |
| TV | FDSN-Detroit, MNMT |
Red Wings vs Capitals latest injuries
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