Penguins to start Matt Murray against Capitals

WASHINGTON — The Penguins will start goaltender Matt Murray against the Washington Capitals on Sunday at Capital One Arena, according to coach Mike Sullivan.

In 32 games this season, Murray has a 17-8-5 record along with a 2.80 goals-against average, a .903 save percentage and one shutout.

During the only previous meeting between the rivals this season, Murray made 29 saves and directed the Penguins to a 4-3 road win on Feb. 2.

Notes:

• Sullivan labeled forward Dominik Kahun as a “game-time” decision. Kahun was injured during a 4-0 road loss to the Maple Leafs when he was struck in the left leg by a shot. He participated in warmups prior to Saturday’s 5-2 home loss to the Buffalo Sabres but did not play.

• The longtime rivals are battling for first place in the Metropolitan Division. Having played one fewer game, the Penguins are in first place with a 37-17-6 and 80 points while the Capitals have a mark of 37-18-6 for 80 points as well.

“They’re a real good team. We all know that,” Sullivan said. “They’ve got a lot of balance throughout their lineup. They’re a physical team. They’ve got a good power play. They’ve got a real good penalty kill. They’re a real balanced team. They’re a good hockey team. They’re one of the better teams in the league. It’s one of the more emotional rivalries in the league with some of the accomplishments that both organizations have had. So any time you’re part of a rivalry like this, these games usually come with heightened emotion and they’re fun to be a part of.”

• Penguins defenseman Kris Letang is scheduled to play his 800th game. Forward Bryan Rust is in line to play his 300th game.

• The Capitals are expected to start goaltender Braden Holtby. In 42 games this season, Holtby has a 21-13-5 record along with a 3.14 goals-against average and an .896 save percentage.

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