Overview
- Alex Ovechkin has scored 890 career NHL goals and needs five more to surpass Wayne Gretzky's record of 894, a milestone that has stood since 1999.
- The Washington Capitals are coming off a rare 8-5 loss to Buffalo, marking their third consecutive defeat and the first time this season they allowed more than five goals in a game.
- The Boston Bruins, currently on an 0-7-1 skid, are at risk of missing the playoffs as they prepare to host the Capitals at TD Garden on Tuesday night.
- Capitals prospect Ryan Leonard, recently signed to an entry-level contract after his collegiate season at Boston College ended, is set to make his NHL debut in the game.
- Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy has returned to practice following a shoulder injury but remains without a timetable for his return to game action.