...
...
Read Article
Capitals vs. Flames prediction: Why Washington is favored to win Friday's NHL matchup [1/23/2026]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Jason Bevilacqua, Head of Content and Communities
Get Washington Capitals vs Calgary Flames predictions for NHL Friday.
The Calgary Flames and Washington Capitals will meet in the NHL at Scotiabank Saddledome on Friday, starting at 9:00 PM ET.
Based on the latest simulation results, Dimers' advanced NHL model gives the Capitals a slight edge with a 54% win probability over the Flames.
This article offers further insights into Friday's Capitals vs. Flames matchup, including projected goal scorers, best bets and player prop picks.
Caps vs. Flames prediction: Who will win and cover?
Using innovative machine learning and data analysis, we have simulated the outcome of Friday's NHL game between the Capitals and Flames 10,000 times as part of our NHL predictions coverage.
Our famous predictive model currently gives the Capitals a 54% chance of beating the Flames.
According to our model, the Flames (+1.5) have a 66% chance of covering the puck line, while the over/under total of 5.5 goals has a 56% chance of going over.
Capitals vs. Flames odds
We have researched the best NHL odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Capitals | Flames |
|---|---|---|
| Puck Line | -1.5 (+190) | +1.5 (-220) |
| Moneyline | -134 | +115 |
| Total | o5.5 (-130) | u5.5 (+110) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Capitals vs. Flames picks and best bet
After matching our predictions against the best available odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:
| Bet Type | Pick | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Puck Line | Capitals -1.5 | +190 |
| Moneyline | Flames | +115 |
| Total | Over 5.5 | -130 |
According to our NHL best bets, the top play to make on this game is Flames to win.
Capitals vs. Flames player props
Who will score a goal in Capitals vs. Flames?
According to our model, Alex Ovechkin is most likely to score an anytime goal in Capitals vs. Flames.
Our projections give Ovechkin a 31.2% chance of scoring a goal at Scotiabank Saddledome, while the star is a 6.3% chance of registering the first goal the game.
Anytime goal scorer predictions
Washington Capitals
| Player | Anytime Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Alex Ovechkin | 31.2% |
| Aliaksei Protas | 30.6% |
| Dylan Strome | 27.4% |
| Tom Wilson | 25.8% |
| Connor McMichael | 23.1% |
Calgary Flames
| Player | Anytime Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Nazem Kadri | 27.0% |
| Yegor Sharangovich | 24.9% |
| Matthew Coronato | 23.0% |
| Mikael Backlund | 21.3% |
| Jonathan Huberdeau | 20.9% |
First goal scorer predictions
Washington Capitals
| Player | First Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Aliaksei Protas | 6.4% |
| Alex Ovechkin | 6.3% |
| Dylan Strome | 5.3% |
| Tom Wilson | 5.2% |
| Connor McMichael | 4.6% |
Calgary Flames
| Player | First Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Nazem Kadri | 5.2% |
| Yegor Sharangovich | 4.8% |
| Matthew Coronato | 4.8% |
| Mikael Backlund | 4.2% |
| Jonathan Huberdeau | 3.9% |
Caps vs. Flames game-day updates and essential details
Friday's game between the Flames and Capitals at Scotiabank Saddledome is scheduled to start at 9:00 PM ET.
- Who: Washington Capitals vs. Calgary Flames
- Date: Friday, January 23, 2026
- Time: 9:00 PM ET/6:00PM PT
- Venue: Scotiabank Saddledome
Conclusion
We predict the Capitals, with a 54% win probability, will likely beat the Flames on Friday.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Capitals vs. Flames insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are sourced from the latest data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Note: Clicking links to our partners may earn us a referral fee. Learn about how we review products and services.
Jason Bevilacqua, an expert in MLB, NHL, NBA, MLS, and NFL, delivers game previews, best bets, and props. Since 2020, as Head of Social and Community at Dimers, he has contributed insightful articles utilizing data-driven models and simulations.
Advertiser disclosure