The Washington Capitals host the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday afternoon in an Eastern Conference tilt on NHL Network.
These two teams typically produce high-scoring games when they match up, and my Red Wings vs. Capitals predictions expect this trend to continue.
Read on for my NHL picks for Saturday, December 20.
Red Wings vs Capitals prediction
Red Wings vs Capitals best bet: Over 5.5 (-130)
There have been six or more total goals scored in four of the past six meetings between the Washington Capitals and the Detroit Red Wings. Offense is not difficult to come by in this matchup, considering the firepower on both sides.
This season, both teams rank in the Top 5 in the league in expected goals for per 60 minutes (xGF/60). Meanwhile, both teams have struggled defensively, but for different reasons.
The Capitals allow high-danger scoring chances at a high rate, ranking in the bottom half of the league in expected goals against per 60 minutes (xGA/60). On the other hand, the Red Wings have failed to receive consistent goaltending.
John Gibson is confirmed to start for Detroit on Saturday, and he's had his fair share of struggles this year. Through 19 starts, Gibson possesses a mere .890 SV%.
These woes are likely to continue against the Capitals, a team he is 0-3 against over the past three meetings with an .880 SV%.
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Red Wings vs Capitals same-game parlay
I'm backing Detroit’s Alex DeBrincat and Washington’s Jakob Chychrun to contribute to the offensive fireworks today.
DeBrincat leads the Wings in goals this year, while Chychrun has scored 10 goals over his past 14 games.
Red Wings vs Capitals SGP
- Over 5.5
- Alex DeBrincat anytime goal
- Jakob Chychrun anytime goal
Red Wings vs Capitals odds
- Moneyline: Detroit +140 | Washington -170
- Puck line: Detroit +1.5 (-170) | Washington -1.5 (+140)
- Over/Under: Over 5.5 (-140) | Under 5.5 (-110)
Red Wings vs Capitals trend
There have been six or more goals in four of the past six meetings between these two teams. Find more NHL betting trends for Red Wings vs. Capitals.
How to watch Red Wings vs Capitals
| Location | Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C. |
| Date | Saturday, December 20, 2025 |
| Puck drop | 12:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | NHL Network |
Red Wings vs Capitals latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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