Preview: Capitals Visit Jets in Central Division Clash WINNIPEG, Manitoba (Interstat) — The Washington Capitals, riding a surge fueled by stellar goaltending, visit the struggling Winnipeg Jets at Canada Life Centre on Saturday in a cross-conference NHL matchup. The Capitals (18-12-1) arrive with points in seven of their last eight games (6-1-1), including a 2-2 shootout tie with Carolina on Thursday. Their recent success is anchored by goaltender Logan Thompson, who has been exceptional. In his last nine appearances, Thompson is 7-2-0 with a .949 save percentage, highlighted by a 39-save shutout against Columbus on Dec. 7. Washington’s offense has complemented that strong netminding, averaging 4.1 goals per game during that eight-game stretch. They defeated the Jets 4-3 in their previous meeting on Nov. 26 in Washington. The Jets (14-15-0) are looking to halt a slide that has seen them lose five of their last six games. Their most recent outing was a 4-3 home loss to Dallas on Tuesday. Center Mark Scheifele remains a bright spot, recording five points (3 goals, 2 assists) in his last five games. He scored in the November loss to the Capitals. Winnipeg’s challenges are twofold: slowing Washington’s momentum and solving Thompson, while also tightening a defense that has allowed 4.2 goals per game over its last six contests. The game marks the start of a three-game road trip for the Capitals, who visit Minnesota on Tuesday. The Jets continue a four-game homestand before hosting Ottawa on Monday. Puck drop is set for 6 p.m. Central time.