Wild-Washington game preview

Preview: These two teams are heading in opposite directions. The Wild's regression continues with a 3-10-1 record in March, including 10 losses in the past 12 games (2-9-1). The NHL-leading Capitals – the second-best offensive team and best defensive team in the league — have won five of six since stopping a four-game losing streak with a 4-2 win over Minnesota on March 14. The Wild's 7-2 all-time at home against the Capitals; The Capitals, off Monday, are 34-4-3 in games when they have one day of rest.

Players to watch: Capitals LW Alex Ovechkin is the third player in NHL history to score 30 or more goals in each of his first 12 seasons (Mike Gartner, Wayne Gretzky). He has 400 career power-play points and 11 goals in 11 career games vs. the Wild. G Braden Holtby is a win from becoming the third goalie in Capitals history to record three straight 40-win seasons. D Kevin Shattenkirk has eight assists in 11 games with the Caps. Wild C Nicklas Backstrom has 32 points in the past 25 games. RW T.J. Oshie has 17 points in 24 games against the Wild. G Devan Dubnyk is searching for his franchise-record 38th win.

Numbers: Washington has outscored opponents 92-60 in the third period. … The Capitals have scored first in 29 of their past 38 games and are 40-7-5 when scoring first. … The Capitals are 33-5-2 when they score a power-play goal. … In March, the Wild ranks 24th with a .122 power-play percentage.

Injuries: None for either team.

Michael Russo