Red Wings vs Capitals Projected Lineups: Key Players and Tactical Matchup Preview

The Detroit Red Wings and Washington Capitals are set to face off, with both teams fielding strong projected lineups. This matchup will take place at 12:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on multiple networks, including FDSNDET and NHLN.

Detroit Red Wings Projected Lineup
Detroit’s forwards feature Emmitt Finnie, Dylan Larkin, and Lucas Raymond on the top line. The second line includes John Leonard, Andrew Copp, and Alex DeBrincat. Their third line pairs Elmer Soderblom with Marco Kasper and Nate Danielson. Michael Rasmussen, J.T. Compher, and James van Riemsdyk complete the fourth line. On defense, Simon Edvinsson teams with Moritz Seider, while Ben Chiarot partners Axel Sandin-Pellikka. Jacob Bernard-Docker will skate alongside Albert Johansson. Goaltending duties are split between John Gibson and Cam Talbot. Travis Hamonic is scratched, and Mason Appleton and Patrick Kane are sidelined due to injuries.

Washington Capitals Projected Lineup
Washington’s offense is anchored by Alex Ovechkin, Dylan Strome, and Anthony Beauvillier. The second line consists of Aliaksei Protas, Justin Sourdif, and Tom Wilson. Connor McMichael, Hendrix Lapierre, and Ethen Frank form the third line. Brandon Duhaime, Nic Dowd, and Sonny Milano make up the fourth line. Defensively, Martin Fehervary pairs with John Carlson, Jakob Chychrun with Matt Roy, and Rasmus Sandin with Trevor van Riemsdyk. Logan Thompson will start in goal, backed by Charlie Lindgren. Dylan McIlrath, Declan Chisholm, and Ivan Miroshnichenko are scratched. Ryan Leonard and Pierre-Luc Dubois remain injured.

Status Updates and Player Availability
Moritz Seider of Detroit missed practice due to maintenance but is expected to play. Capitals forward Ryan Leonard practiced but remains uncertain for game time, while Hendrix Lapierre is expected to return after missing a recent game because of illness. Washington also made roster adjustments, recalling forward Ivan Miroshnichenko from their AHL affiliate Hershey Bears and loaning Bogdan Trineyev in the opposite direction.

Fans can anticipate a competitive game featuring key players stepping up despite some injuries. Both teams rely on balanced lines and solid goaltending to secure a victory in this important NHL contest.