As the NHL gears up for a thrilling evening of action, today’s predictions and betting insights delve into two exciting matchups. The first contest features the Tampa Bay Lightning visiting the St. Louis Blues, while the second game has the Nashville Predators facing off against the Colorado Avalanche.
Starting with the Lightning and Blues, Tampa Bay is riding high on an impressive 11-game winning streak, which they hope to extend against a St. Louis team recently rejuvenated by a 3-0 shutout victory over the Carolina Hurricanes. This win ended a three-game losing streak for the Blues, with goalie Joel Hofer shining with 33 saves. Despite the Lightning’s current form, the potential absence of a key goalie has raised some concerns, creating uncertainty around their performance. Jonas Johansson has played well in the streak but struggled historically against the Blues, while Hofer will be making his first start against Tampa.
Player performances are crucial in this matchup. Forward Nikita Kucherov has consistently made an impact, accumulating two or more points in four of the last seven games against the Blues and nine of Tampa’s last ten overall. Other notable players include Darren Raddysh, who has had multiple points in five of the last seven games, and Nick Paul, stepping up as the number one center following injury concerns. Kucherov’s point contributions and Raddysh’s performance will be pivotal for Tampa’s success.
On the St. Louis side, players such as Brayden Schenn and Jimmy Snuggerud are key figures to watch, especially with favorable prop odds for their point totals. Snuggerud’s increased shot frequency promises to keep pressure on Tampa’s defense.
Betting predictions for this game include several player props such as:
– Jimmy Snuggerud Over 2.5 shots on goal (+182) – 1 unit
– Jimmy Snuggerud Over 3.5 shots on goal (+460) – 0.25 units
– Brayden Schenn Over ½ point (+114) – 0.5 units
– Nikita Kucherov Over 1.5 points (-108) – 0.25 units
Shifting to the second matchup, the Colorado Avalanche will host the Nashville Predators. The Avalanche are looking to bounce back after a disappointing overtime loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs, but they remain strong at home, having lost just three games this season—each in overtime or shootout. Historically, when favored by -300 or more, Colorado has thrived, boasting an undefeated record in this scenario this season.
The game is expected to feature early scoring, as demonstrated in previous matchups. The Avs have frequently scored two or more goals in these favored games and have consistently cashed in on first-period overs against Nashville.
Player prop bets to consider include:
– Goal in first five minutes (+152) – 0.20 units
– Goal in first ten minutes (-180) – 1 unit
– Avs -1.5 goals (-122) – Full game – 1 unit
– Ryan O’Reilly Over ½ point (-125) – 0.25 units
As the evening unfolds, fans and bettors alike will be treated to potential high-scoring affairs and captivating performances, setting the stage for an unforgettable night in the NHL. With both matchups promising excitement, there’s plenty for hockey enthusiasts to look forward to.