Get ready for an electrifying early-season matchup as the Tampa Bay Lightning travel to the nation’s capital to take on the Washington Capitals. Both teams are looking to establish momentum in the new 2025-26 NHL season, making this a crucial game even in October. The Capitals are riding a hot streak, while the Lightning are fresh off their first win and eager to prove they are still a dominant force in the East.
How to Watch the Lightning vs. Capitals Game
You won’t want to miss this clash between two Eastern Conference powerhouses. Here’s how you can tune in to the action tonight, Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
- USA: The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN. The puck drops at 7:00 PM ET. You can also stream the game live through services like Fubo (which offers a free trial), Sling TV, or Hulu + Live TV.
- Canada: Hockey fans in Canada can find the game on Sportsnet +. If you have IPTV you can watch the game on NHLPPV.
The game is set to take place at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., and promises a high-energy atmosphere as the Capitals look to defend their home ice.
Tale of the Tape: Team Records and Recent Performance
The Washington Capitals have started the season strong with a 2-1-0 record. They are currently enjoying a two-game winning streak, having secured a gritty 1-0 victory over the New York Rangers in their last outing. Goaltender Charlie Lindgren was spectacular, making 35 saves for the shutout. The Capitals are showing a renewed commitment to defensive structure, which could be the key to their success this season. Early-season offensive contributions have come from Aliaksei Protas, who leads the team with 4 points.
The Tampa Bay Lightning, on the other hand, had a slower start, but are now finding their groove. After dropping their first two games, they roared back with a hard-fought 4-3 win against the Boston Bruins. Their record now stands at 1-2-0. The victory showcased the Lightning’s resilience and offensive firepower. Brayden Point is leading the charge with 4 points in the first three games, while superstars like Nikita Kucherov are starting to heat up.
Leading Scorers:
- Washington Capitals: Aliaksei Protas (4 points), Jakob Chychrun (3 points), Tom Wilson (2 points).
- Tampa Bay Lightning: Brayden Point (4 points), Nikita Kucherov (2 points), Victor Hedman (2 points).
Prediction and Betting Odds
This game presents a classic battle between a team with defensive momentum and a team with offensive awakening. The Capitals have been solid in their own end, while the Lightning possess one of the most dangerous offenses in the league. The betting odds have the home team as slight favorites, with Washington at -1.20 and the over/under set at 5.5 goals.
Given Washington’s strong defensive play at home and Tampa Bay’s potential for a breakout offensive performance, this could be a close game. However, the Capitals’ recent form gives them a slight edge.
Prediction: Washington Capitals 3, Tampa Bay Lightning 2
Whether you’re looking for the Tampa Bay Lightning on TV today or the full Washington Capitals TV schedule, we have you covered all season long. Be sure to check back for our NHL predictions for the 2025-26 season and join our online hockey pool for cash prizes on my website for your chance to win big!
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