5 Bold Predictions For New York Rangers vs. Washington Capitals In 2015 NHL Playoffs

By Nick Villano

5 Predictions For Capitals vs. Rangers

Washington Capitals v New York Rangers — The New York Rangers have been on top of the Metropolitan Division for a majority of the second half, but now they have one last hurdle to truly claim the division: The Washington Capitals. These two teams have been battling for decades, and now they get to fight again to move on in the playoffs. Here are five expectations going into this series.

5. Rick Nash Will Step Up

Rick Nash

5. Rick Nash Will Step Up

Rick Nash — Rick Nash will be a true superstar in this series. He was decent in the Penguins series, but the Rangers didn't really need much from him. Here, they need him to be great. This series could definitely go seven games, so every Nash play counts.

4. Braden Holtby Will Have More Shutouts Than Henrik Lundqvist

Braden Holtby

4. Braden Holtby Will Have More Shutouts Than Henrik Lundqvist

Braden Holtby Henrik Lundqvist — When Braden Holtby is on his game, he is unstoppable. He could definitely shut the Rangers out in two different games. Lundqvist probably won't get more than one in the series.

3. Martin St. Louis Will Drop In Lines

Martin St. Louis

3. Martin St. Louis Will Drop In Lines

Martin St. Louis — Martin St. Louis is not having a very good playoffs so far, with just one point in five games. This comes one season after he led the Rangers all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals. If he can't recreate that magic, he won't find himself on the top line anymore.

2. Three Different Defensemen Will Have Game-Winning Goals

Game-Winning Goals

2. Three Different Defensemen Will Have Game-Winning Goals

Game-Winning Goals — The Rangers currently employ Dan Boyle, Keith Yandle and Ryan McDonogh, all of whom scored over 20 points during the season. This team will do a majority of their scoring from the blue line, including at least three game-winning goals.

1. Alex Ovechkin's Playoff Drought Continues

Alex Ovechkin

1. Alex Ovechkin's Playoff Drought Continues

Alex Ovechkin — Alexander Ovechkin has been in the league for a decade, but he has never advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals. Despite making the playoffs seven times, he has never won more than one playoff series in a single year. This will continue as the Rangers will win this series in seven games.

Nick Villano is the New Jersey Devils writer for Rant Sports. He also adds to the site’s NBA, MLB and NFL content. You can follow him on Twitter or add him to your Google circle.

Teams in this article »

New York Rangers

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Washington Capitals

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