Here is a look at the key storylines surrounding the Washington Capitals right now and their upcoming schedule for the week of March 15-22, 2026.
The Desperate Wild Card Chase
The Capitals are in the thick of a tight race for the final Eastern Conference wild-card spot. Following a grueling 3-2 shootout loss to the Boston Bruins on March 14, Washington is trying to close a vital point ga — they currently trail the final wild-card spot by roughly six points. With time running out in the 2025-26 regular season, every single point matters.
Shootout Struggles
The recent nine-round shootout defeat against Boston highlighted a glaring weakness for the team. The Capitals have fallen to a dismal 1-6 record in games decided by a shootout this season.
Finding ways to close out tight games in regulation or overtime will be a major focal point for head coach Spencer Carbery this week.
Blue Line Offense & Roy’s Slump Buster
Washington has relied heavily on its defensemen for offensive production this season, with blueliners accounting for 46 of the team’s goals. A major bright spot in their last game was defenseman Matt Roy, who fired an 86-mph slap shot to end a 45-game goal drought dating back to mid-November.
Top Producers
Alex Ovechkin and defenseman Jakob Chychrun continue to lead the charge, pacing the team with 51 points each. The team will heavily lean on their veteran leadership during this critical upcoming stretch.
Capitals Upcoming Schedule
The outlook for the next seven days is highly favorable in terms of logistics, as the Capitals are heading into a three-game homestand. Not having to travel gives them a prime opportunity to rest, practice, and capitalize on home-ice advantage at Capital One Arena. They will need to secure maximum points against Eastern Conference rivals (Ottawa Senators and New Jersey Devils) before facing a tough Western Conference test against the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday.
| Date | Opponent | Location | Time (EDT) |
| Wednesday, March 18 | vs. Ottawa Senators | Capital One Arena | 7:30 PM |
| Friday, March 20 | vs. New Jersey Devils | Capital One Arena | 7:00 PM |
| Sunday, March 22 | vs. Colorado Avalanche | Capital One Arena | 12:30 PM |
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