Capitals Aim to Snap Losing Streak Against Lightning

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Washington Capitals will host the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Capital One Arena in a key matchup that could shift the momentum for the struggling Caps. The game is set to start at 12:30 p.m. EST and will be broadcast on Monumental Sports Network, with radio coverage on 106.7 THE FAN.

Entering the showdown, the Capitals are trying to overcome a two-game regulation losing streak, their longest of the season so far. After a decisive 7-3 victory over the Edmonton Oilers on the homestand’s opening day, Washington has suffered losses to the Calgary Flames (3-1) and St. Louis Blues (5-2), both games showing signs of their recent struggles.

In these last games, the Capitals’ defense has been challenged, yielding three or more goals for the first time in over a year. They have allowed an average of three goals against for the past nine games. In contrast, Washington has a record of 26-2-1 when limiting opponents to two or fewer goals this season, further emphasizing the importance of a solid defensive effort.

Caps forward P-L Dubois, addressing the current form of the team, noted, “There are opportunities there where maybe the pass isn’t on the tape… Finding that balance of simple plays vs. making plays is crucial.” His sentiments reflect a common struggle among players when trying to shift the game’s momentum in their favor.

As the Capitals seek a return to form, they face the NHL’s hottest team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, who are currently on a seven-game winning streak, scoring a remarkable 31 goals while allowing only 12 during that stretch. This lightning-quick team excels in first-period play, boasting a plus-21 goal differential in the opening period, which is something the Capitals must counteract.

“They’re a very good team,” said Caps center Dylan Strome of the Lightning. “We need to limit their chances and stick to our game plan to have a shot.” The last time these two teams clashed, Tampa Bay handed Washington a 3-0 loss in October, a memory that stings for the Capitals.

This game will also be a showcase of special teams, as Washington ranks ninth in power-play success at 24.1% while Tampa Bay isn’t far behind at fifth with 27.2%. Defensively, the Caps are fourth in penalty killing efficiency at 82.3%, giving them an edge in potentially swinging the game in their favor.

The Capitals, aiming for a critical turnaround, will need a strong start against Tampa Bay’s proficient offense. “Hopefully, we can find a way to do what we did the last time we played them – limit their offensive powerhouse and capitalize on our chances,” Strome added.

With the stakes high, and both teams knowing the importance of the outcome, Saturday’s matchup promises to be a tight game, filled with essential opportunities for the Capitals as they seek to regain their winning form.