This almost is like a back-to-back game for Washington. The Capitals got past Minnesota, 3-2, on Friday night and now have to play at this early start time. The Capitals also will be without injured key defenseman John Carlson.

The Blackhawks are boosted after being active in the trading market and are in stop-the-pain mode with two consecutive losses. They have had ample time to prepare since they last played on Thursday and before then last Sunday.