Caps carry ‘ desperation-mode’ mindset into clash vs. Predators

The Washington Capitals are aware of the importance of Thursday night's home game against the Nashville Predators.

Heading into the final game before the Olympic break, the Capitals -- who ran away with the Metropolitan Division title last season -- are a half-dozen points outside of a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

"We're in desperation mode. We have been for a bit," Washington coach Spencer Carbery said. "It's tight in the division, in the conference. ... You come out of...