Capitals Face Lightning in Evening Matchup Amid Lineup Changes

Washington, D.C. — The Washington Capitals will host the Tampa Bay Lightning tonight at 7 p.m. ET in a highly anticipated matchup featuring notable lineup changes for both teams. The game will be broadcast on MNMT, ESPN, and other networks.

Capitals coach Spencer Carbery announced a shift in his lineup as top-six centerman Pierre-Luc Dubois is sidelined with a lower-body injury, sustained during a previous game. Dubois’ absence has resulted in Connor McMichael moving into the top six alongside Aliaksei Protas and Tom Wilson.

“Reliable minutes is what we’re looking for,” Carbery said. “We just need good, strong, solid minutes from him.” McMichael’s promotion comes as the Capitals seek to maintain their momentum after a successful 4-2 victory over the New York Islanders.

On the Lightning side, they are coming off a victory against the Boston Bruins and will look to capitalize on their recent success. The projected lineup includes standout players like Brandon Hagel, Brayden Point, and Nikita Kucherov, who have been effective in their performance this season.

While both teams aim for a strong showing, Capitals goalie Logan Thompson is expected to take the ice following Charlie Lindgren‘s stellar play in a previous match. Thompson previously faced the Lightning, letting in two goals but has learned from that experience.

The Capitals have yet to repeat a lineup in back-to-back games this season, emphasizing their strategy-focused approach. Meanwhile, the Lightning will attempt to establish momentum as they navigate their early-season challenges.

“We want to control the play and stay in the offensive zone for shifts,” Carbery added, highlighting the Capitals’ goals for tonight’s match. Fans are eager to see how both teams will adapt and contend as the game unfolds.