Caps vs. Wild 2-26-2008 Preview

Washington Capitals (28-35; 64 points; 2nd Southeast Division, 11th Eastern Conference, 24th Overall) vs. Minnesota Wild (34-28; 73 points; 2nd Northwest Division, 6th Western Conference, 10th Overall):
Caps Game #64, Home Game #32, NHL Game #952

Verizon Center, Washington, D.C. 7:08 pm. Washington TV: None. Radio: WWWT 1500-AM, 107.7-FM. Minnesota TV: None. Radio: WCCO 830-AM. National TV: Versus. NHL Center Ice: None.

Tonight the Caps look to get back on track and get their first win against the Wild since February 6th, 2002. It won't be easy but the Wild are starting a three games in four nights swing through the Southeast Division hoping to regain first place in the Northwest Division. The Wild have lost three in a row to fall one point back of Calgary with a game in hand. The last time out, the Flames beat the Wild in Minnesota 2-1 on Sunday.

What The Natives Are Saying:

(Com)Post. Times. Caps.com.

Neutral Views:

NHL.com AP Wire.

Open Source Intelligence:

Pioneer Press. Star-Tribune: waiting game, game day.

What Do I Expect Tonight?:

In case you haven't noticed, today is deadline day and the Caps are not expected to be major players. Something small could be done but for the most part, what is on the active roster now is what will make the final push over the next 20 games in an attempt to make the playoffs. The Caps, like the Wild could use a little extra help for the remainder of the season but with so few teams looking to sell, the price may be too high and neither team is likely to make a move today. Any move that is made today is not likely to impact tonight's game as any player acquired is very unlikely to dress and play in a game tonight though a player dealt could create a temporary hole in the lineup. How each team handles the activity or complete and total lack thereof tonight could show you how each team will play down the stretch. Remember, last year the Caps were publicly complaining about the lack of talent on the roster, especially after the deadline, and seemingly gave up on the season. Should the Caps stand pat as expected today, will the Caps give up once again? We'll find out tonight.

Caps Nut Official Prediction:

Caps 3
Wild 2
Winner by Semin

(33-29 on the season)