NHL 19-20/03/2022: Tampa Bay Lightning, Washington Wizards and Los Angeles Kings on the ice

The NHL never fails to excite. We have been treated to some high-scoring matchups over the past week, and we are looking forward to what is in store this weekend. Check out our preview, which includes the latest odds for Vegas Golden Knights v Los Angeles Kings, as well as Tampa Bay Lightning v New York Rangers.

Vegas Golden Knights eager to get back on the winning trail

While Vegas Golden Knights have shown what they are capable of this season, there are times when they have been below par. Over the past week, they have gone through the motions, and they have suffered a few unexpected defeats. Last weekend, they crashed to a 6-4 defeat at the hands of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Then, earlier this week, the Golden Knights were on the wrong end of a 7-3 scoreline against the Winnipeg Jets. Although Kyle Connor and Josh Morrissey combined for five points, they couldn’t handle the Jets, who were threatening every time they surged forward. Nevertheless, the Golden Knights are fourth in the Pacific Division, and they are on the coattails of the Edmonton Oilers.

Los Angeles Kings given reality check by Colorado Avalanche

Going into their game against the Avalanche, the Kings were hoping to record back-to-back victories. However, it wasn’t meant to be as the Avalanche produced a brilliant shut-out display. Although the Kings slumped to defeat, goaltender Jonathan Quick pulled off 24 saves from the 27 shots he faced.

Tampa Bay Lightning continue to churn out the wins

Although the Lightning still have work to do to overhaul Atlantic table-toppers Florida Panthers, they aren’t throwing in the towel just yet. The Lightning were very impressive earlier in the week, as they romped to a 4-1 victory over the Seattle Kraken to take their record to 39-15-6 for this campaign.

New York Rangers back on the right track

While the Lightning will fancy their chances against the Rangers, it’s fair to say that the Rangers will be no pushover. After recording consecutive victories, the Rangers are sitting pretty in the Metropolitan Division, as they are second with a 38-17-5 record to boot.

Ryan Lindgren has made the difference for the New York Rangers

The Rangers certainly needed to tighten up at the back and, in many ways, Ryan Lindgren has made a huge difference. He has been an ever-present fixture of the Rangers starting line-up in recent weeks, and he has played top-pair minutes with reigning Norris Trophy winner Adam Fox.

More importantly, Lindgren has been a steady influence, and he has produced some solid displays. And that’s despite picking up a few injuries along the way. He said: “When we go seven D, I don’t think about it too much. I just go out there and play.”

Lindgren knows he could be up against it with the Lightning, who will most likely be serious Stanley Cup contenders come the end of the season. Although the Rangers pack a punch, the Lightning should, and probably will, edge this clash.

Washington Capitals enjoy thrilling win over New York Islanders

There has been an interesting trend that has emerged of late for the Capitals. In their last two games, they have prevailed 4-3 against both the Vancouver Canucks and the New York Islanders. Although it may be fun for the neutral, it is probably a bit more nail-biting for the fans.

Nevertheless, they will relish facing the Dallas Stars, who are coming off the back of some heavy defeats. The Toronto Maple Leafs made light work of the Stars earlier this week when they cruised to a 4-0 victory, and the Capitals should secure the win to push themselves closer to the Pittsburgh Penguins.