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Best NHL Player Prop Bets Today: Alex Killorn To Get On Scoresheet
The Colorado Avalanche are still massive favorites to win the Stanley Cup, but Alex Killorn might be the most interesting bet ahead of Game 4.
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The Colorado Avalanche are still massive favorites (-300) to win the series according to NHL odds, while NHL betting lines have Game 4 as a toss-up. Both teams are -110.
While those are two worthwhile bets to consider, don’t forget about player props.
Alex Killorn – Over 0.5 Points (+125)
The Lightning’s top line of Steven Stamkos, Ondrej Palat, and Nikita Kucherov carried the offensive burden on Monday night. The trio combined for six points, helping the Bolts cut the series lead in half. However, the second line could be on the verge of a breakout performance.
Tampa’s second unit is led by Alex Killorn, who played the second-most minutes at five-on-five in Game 3. The 25-goal scorer has been a valuable contributor on both ends of the ice but possesses above-average offensive abilities. Through 20 playoff games, Killorn has put together a 51.1% expected goals-for rating despite starting just 41.6% of his shifts in the attacking zone.
Moreover, the right-winger’s actual goals-for rating of 45.2% is below expected, which is also reflected in his goals total. Killorn has been on the ice for 14 goals, well below his expected total of 20, and recording points on just four tallies.
It hasn’t been a productive start to the postseason for Killorn, but he remains an offensive leader for the Lightning. The prop market has shifted away from him, but at +125, now is the time to back Killorn to go over his 0.5-point total.
Steven Stamkos – Over 0.5 Points (-200)
If the Lightning have any hope of equalizing the series, they need their best players to step up, starting with Stamkos. Tampa’s captain led all forwards in ice-time in Game 3 and should duplicate his two-point performance on Wednesday.
The analytics validate Stamkos’s ongoing success. The two-time Rocket Richard Trophy winner sits second among Lightning forwards with 266 scoring and 115 high-danger chances, leading to the second-highest expected goals-for total. Tampa continues to deploy Stamkos under ideal circumstances, with 70.7% of his zone starts coming in the offensive end and giving him a healthy dose of powerplay time. On Monday night, Stamkos led all skaters with 6:52 on the man advantage, facilitating five shots on target.
Tampa’s success runs through their top line, meaning Stamkos needs to deliver again in Game 4. The advanced metrics support ongoing production from Stamkos, and that’s also reflected in the -200 price on his point prop. A steep price shouldn’t prevent bettors from taking the over.
NHL Parlay Picks at BetMGM
BetMGM has you covered not only during the Stanley Cup playoffs, but throughout the NHL season. But the NHL playoffs are the perfect time for making NHL parlay picks in between examining the latest Stanley Cup betting odds.
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Conn Smythe Trophy Betting: Steven Stamkos is Undervalued
The Cup final is here, and if you're looking for an interesting Conn Smythe favorite bet, look towards Steven Stamkos.
This content was produced by The Hockey News' sponsor, BetMGM.
The Colorado Avalanche narrowly missed out on the Presidents’ Trophy for the best regular-season record, losing out to the Florida Panthers over the season’s final games. Meanwhile, the two-time defending champion Tampa Bay Lightning are looking to become the first team since the New York Islanders (1980-83) to win three Cups in a row.
Here are three players with attractive Conn Smythe Trophy odds at the online sportsbook:
Steven Stamkos +1400
Lightning captain Steven Stamkos has struggled to stay healthy throughout his career, and that’s impacted his competitiveness. However, if we see elite-level play from the two-time Rocket Richard-winner, and if Tampa claims their third straight Stanley Cup, some of the credit will be handed to their captain.
Stammer leads the Bolts with an actual goals-for rating of 68.2%, being on the ice for a team-best 30 goals. Although exceeding his expected projection, the first-line center is well-positioned to continue his onslaught.
Stamkos starts 72.7% of his shifts in the attacking zone, getting 4:30 minutes of power play time per game. More impressively, the former first overall selection leads the Lightning with a 13.4% on-ice shooting percentage. Tampa needs their captain to be their best player, and so far, Stamkos has delivered.
Remember, like most awards, the media vote on this; Stamkos claiming his third straight Stanley Cup is the narrative that could carry the most weight after years of disappointment.
Victor Hedman +2000
Almost no one can do what Victor Hedman does. The hulking rearguard has been a stabilizing force on the Lightning’s backend for years, claiming a Norris Trophy, five All-Star nods, and the Conn Smythe Trophy following their 2020 Cup win.
The six-time Norris Trophy finalist does it all for the Bolts. Hedman skates on the top power play unit, averaging almost two minutes of penalty kill time per game, and leads the team with 24:30 time on ice.
His advanced metrics glimmer even brighter, with Hedman putting together a 59.2% expected goals-for rate, despite spending a substantial amount of time on the PK and starting just 52.8% of his shifts in the offensive zone.
Hedman’s defensive play is more critical to limiting the Lightning’s success. The Swedish defenseman will be tasked with shutting down the Avs top line of Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen, and Gabriel Landeskog, and that only helps his bid to secure his second Conn Smythe award.
Hedman has the pedigree to claim his second MVP of the postseason, and the online betting price is enticing. We should only see his stock rise on the biggest stage, meaning now is the time to buy.
Darcy Kuemper +4000
The superstars have carried the Avalanche through the first three rounds of the playoffs, and that’s reflected in their Conn Smythe betting price. MacKinnon, Rantanen, Landeskog, and Cale Makar have the best odds to claim the award; however, the Avs will need more significant contributions from Darcy Kuemper if they hope to dethrone the Lightning.
Solving Tampa’s netminder Andrei Vasilevskiy is a problem most teams can’t address. Colorado will inevitably find a way to capitalize, but there’s a finite amount of munition and even fewer goals. With goals likely coming at a premium, they will need Kuemper at his best. That only elevates his status as a Conn Smythe contender.
We’ve seen tremendous stretches from the Avs’ netminder this season, with Kuemper going 9-1-1 over an 11-game stretch towards the end of the season with a 94.4% save percentage. If that’s his playoff standard, Kuemper could take Vasilevskiy’s crown, and at +4000, it’s worth a gamble.
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With live odds for games from the preseason through the Stanley Cup playoffs, you can bet on the over/under total during the first intermission of a St. Louis Blues-Colorado Avalanche game, puck line during the second period of a Nashville Predators-Detroit Red Wings game, or moneyline late in a tied game between the New Jersey Devils and New York Rangers.
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Stanley Cup Final Odds: Best Game 1 Prop Bets for Lightning vs. Avalanche
The puck drops on Wednesday for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup final, and BetMGM has the best prop bets.
This content was produced by The Hockey News' sponsor, BetMGM.
The puck drops on Wednesday for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup final as the Colorado Avalanche and Tampa Bay Lightning begin a seven-game series for Lord Stanley’s Cup.
Both teams are scalding hot; the Lightning have won four straight and 10 of their past 12 to reach the final, while the Avs have won 12 of 14 games this postseason. Here are some prop bets for Stanley Cup betting in Game 1:
Time of First Goal
9:00-60:00 (-105)
The Lightning have ridden a defensive wave to their third straight Cup Final, thwarting high-powered offenses and getting the most out of Andrei Vasilevskiy.
With Tampa Bay holding an enormous advantage between the pipes, the Avalanche will want to avoid getting into a run-and-gun style of game, which could lead to a slow start on Wednesday.
Almost no one is beating Vasilevskiy at five-on-five in these playoffs. The Russian netminder has limited opponents to one or fewer goals at five-on-five in nine of their last 11 games, resulting in a 93.9% save percentage.
Teams have had more success across all strengths; still, goals aren’t easy to come by. Vasilevskiy is stopping 92.9% of shots overall in the postseason, including 95.5% over his past four.
Avalanche goalies have been less reliable, but the team has been effective at limiting scoring in the first period. Colorado has given up just one first-period goal over their past three outings, preferring to play a neutralizing brand of hockey at five-on-five instead of pushing the pace offensively. I’m anticipating a similar game plan against the Bolts as Colorado looks to insulate their perceived disadvantage in the net.
Only one goal was scored in the first period across Tampa’s last four games, a similar trend to what we’ve seen from the Avs. Goals won’t come easily in the final, particularly in the first 8:59 of Game 1.
Lightning First to Three Goals
+160
It’s a delicate balance between rest and rust, and the Avalanche are teetering towards the latter. That puts them at a disadvantage in the race to three goals, leaving an edge in backing the Lightning in this Stanley Cup Final prop bet at +160.
As noted, finding a way to beat Vasilevskiy is a big ask. The reigning Conn Smythe winner is a stalwart in the net, limiting his opponents to two or fewer goals in nine of his previous 11 games. Although the Avalanche have had some luck finding the back of the net, they have yet to encounter a goalie like Vasilevskiy.
The Lightning haven’t enjoyed as much success offensively, putting together a cumulative 9.4% shooting percentage compared to the Avs’ 11.4% mark and 3.1 goals per game to 4.1. Still, they’ve been more productive than the Avalanche, averaging 10.9 high-danger chances per game, better than the 10.4 from Colorado.
Tampa is also short of their regular season benchmarks, implying they remain progression candidates as the season races to a conclusion. The Bolts averaged 3.5 goals per game in the regular season, scoring 11.2% of shots and coming up short of both marks in the postseason. Increased output should come with sustained production, especially against the Avs’ inferior goaltending.
In reconciling the available data, the Lightning are better positioned for offensive success in the final. Moreover, Tampa has won the race to three goals in three of their past four, failing to hit the threshold once. At +160, it’s a worthy investment that they are the first to score three in the series opener.
NHL Odds at BetMGM
BetMGM is the premier online sportsbook for betting on NHL odds. And with live sports betting, there’s never a break in the action.
Throughout the season, you can view updated odds during games. Whether you’re watching a Chicago Blackhawks-Detroit Red Wings game from your couch, streaming a Nashville Predators-New York Rangers game on your phone, or checking scores from your phone, you can place live bets.
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Best NHL Game Props: Not a Lot of Scoring in Oilers-Avalanche Matchup
Here are two NHL game prop bets to consider for Monday’s Oilers-Avalanche matchup.
This content was produced by The Hockey News' sponsor, BetMGM.
With the Avalanche up 3-0 in the best-of-seven series against the Oilers, it doesn’t make sense to bet on NHL odds for the series, but there are still tons of prop bet options for individual games.
Here are a few NHL betting options for Monday’s Game 4.
Colorado Avalanche vs. Edmonton Oilers: Both Teams to Score 1 or More Goals in Regulation No +825
For this prop to hit, one team needs to be shut out or the game needs to be tied at zeroes heading into overtime. Although that may seem unlikely with both teams’ offensive capabilities, there are a few factors worth considering.
Both teams have had success in limiting each other, resulting in fewer goals in Games 2 and 3.
Edmonton has held the Avs to a combined 10 high-danger chances at five-on-five over the past couple of games, with only three of those coming at Rogers Place on Saturday night. The Oilers had more offensive zone time at home, but it didn’t amount to a substantive increase in offense thanks to the Avalanche’s defensive zone play. Edmonton was held to 24 shots at five-on-five, and 29 overall.
Also, consider Smith’s metrics at home. Although he’s been lit up on a few occasions, overall Smith has been effective in his friendly confines. The veteran netminder has a 93.4% save percentage through his seven home starts, including two shutouts. Similarly, Edmonton had its backs up against the wall in its opening-round series against the Los Angeles Kings, needing two straight victories to advance to Round 2. Smith responded by winning both starts and stopping 59 of 61 shots.
The Avs shut out the Oilers in Game 2, while Smith has two shutouts in seven home games. The betting price of +825 that one, or both teams, don’t score in regulation is high enough that it’s worth playing.
Colorado Avalanche vs. Edmonton Oilers: Time of First Goal 9:00-60:00 +110
Edmonton opened the scoring in Game 3 less than 40 seconds into the contest. That goal was the lone highlight in an uneventful first nine minutes of action, which included a five-minute Colorado powerplay. Scoring was at a premium the rest of the game, with the Oilers and Avs preferring to lean into their defensive systems instead of forcing the pace offensively. A similar brand of hockey should yield a different result in Game 4.
The Avs had seven minutes of power-play time in the opening frame, creating just four high-danger chances across all strengths. Their five-on-five play was even less inspired, with Colorado attempting zero scoring or quality opportunities. Moreover, they got lucky on their only goal, with a shot from the goal line deflecting off Darnell Nurse’s stick and past Smith on the short side.
The play we saw on Saturday night is not conducive to two goals being scored in the first period, let alone the first 8:59. Both teams got lucky on their opening tallies, and it’s unlikely they manufacture offense in what will be another tight-checking affair. The first goal in this one should come after the 9:00 mark.
NHL Parlay Picks at BetMGM
BetMGM has you covered not only during the Stanley Cup playoffs, but throughout the NHL season. But the NHL playoffs are the perfect time for making NHL parlay picks in between examining the latest Stanley Cup betting odds.
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Best NHL Game Props Tuesday: Early Scoring in Oilers-Avalanche
The Edmonton Oilers and Colorado Avalanche kick things off on Tuesday, with both teams looking to make the Cup final after extended absences away. Here's the best prop bets for the day.
This content was produced by The Hockey News' sponsor, BetMGM.
The Colorado Avalanche will host the Edmonton Oilers in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals Tuesday night with both teams looking to undo years of defeat.
The Avalanche are big favorites when it comes to NHL betting, but anything can happen. And if NHL betting lines aren’t your thing, there are plenty of prop bets to consider for every game the rest of the way.
Here are two to consider for Tuesday.
Edmonton Oilers vs. Colorado Avalanche: Both Teams to Score in the First Period +140
Goals have been flowing naturally for both teams this postseason.
Edmonton has the top two point-getters and top goalscorer in Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evander Kane. The Avalanche also have elite producers with five different skaters averaging a point per game in these playoffs and 11 players with at least five points. There’s no hiding the skill in these lineups, which should lead to early scoring from both teams in Game 1.
Edmonton and Colorado are the two highest-scoring teams this postseason.
The Oilers have a modest advantage in goal scoring, averaging 4.33 goals per game, marginally higher than the Avs’ 4.30. Edmonton came out of the gates hot all season, with McDavid and Draisaitl ranking first and fourth in first-period goals. They’ve maintained that pace into the playoffs, finding the back of the net nine times through their first 12 games in the opening stanza.
The Avalanche have looked even more impressive early in games, tallying 12 times and recording first-period goals in six of their 10 matchups. This postseason, part of the Avs game plan has been to assert themselves early, forcing their opponents to try and keep pace. Don’t expect them to deviate from what got them here against an Oilers squad that doesn’t have any breaks.
Similar game plans and abundant skills should help both teams score in the first period.
Edmonton Oilers vs. Colorado Avalanche: Both Teams to Score Three or More Goals +130
I am not expecting the offense to be limited to the first period. Both teams have a knack for scoring, while Mike Smith and Darcy Kuemper have looked suspect at times in these playoffs. That should help both teams reach three goals in the series opener.
Kuemper hasn’t been tested frequently, with the Avs allowing just 27 shots per game. However, Kuemper is stopping just 90.4% of attempts. His struggles date back to the regular season, with the 32-year-old recording a .895 save percentage over his last 17 appearances.
Overall, Smith has looked better than Kuemper this postseason. Despite facing the second-most shots, Smith has a respectable .927 save percentage. Still, the veteran netminder has been prone to bad outings, allowing three or more goals in seven of his 12 games. He’s also struggled in both Game 1s this postseason, allowing a 7.17 goals-against average while stopping just 84.4% of shots.
Edmonton and Colorado have scored at will in the playoffs, and that’s not going to change in Game 1 on Tuesday, which is reflected in the total being set at seven. Both teams scoring in the first would go a long way to helping these Western Conference rivals make it to three goals each.
NHL Parlay Picks at BetMGM
BetMGM has you covered not only during the Stanley Cup playoffs, but throughout the NHL season. But the NHL playoffs are the perfect time for making NHL parlay picks in between examining the latest Stanley Cup betting odds.
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St. Louis Blues vs. Colorado Avalanche Odds, Lines, Picks & Predictions – NHL, May 19
Blues vs. Avalanche best bets, betting odds, over/under & moneyline for Thursday, plus team trends & player stats
This content was produced by The Hockey News' sponsor, BetMGM.
The Colorado Avalanche and Blues’ netminder Jordan Binnington put on a show in Game 1, with the former scoring a clutch overtime winner to go ahead in the series.
Thanks to Colorado’s 3-2 win, NHL betting lines have ever-so slightly shifted for Thursday’s Game 2. The Avs were -222 favorites in advance of Game 1 and are sitting at a marginally shorter -233 odds for Game 2.
The NHL oddsmakers obviously feel the Blues, despite falling a single opportunity shy of stealing Game 1, were out of their depth in the Mile High City.
They aren’t wrong in that assertion. A relentless Colorado forecheck combined with a lightning-quick, skillful and tenacious cycle kept the visitors hemmed in for the majority of the opener.
Blues vs. Avalanche Odds, Moneyline, Over/Under
Moneyline: Blues (+190) | Avalanche (-233)
Spread: Blues +1.5 (-125) | Avalanche -1.5 (+105)
Total: 6.5 Over -125 | 6.5 Under +105
Blues vs. Avalanche Analysis
The Avs peppered Binnington with 54 shots, including a bevy of prime, high-danger scoring chances. The Blues’ ace was up to the task, showcasing his athleticism and down-but-not-out mastery. Colorado also hit more iron than an iron-ore miner working extra shifts.
Witnessing their goaltender come up with his best playoff performance – which includes his Stanley Cup-winning run in 2019 – yet still lose is a morbid proposition for the Blues.
For the first time in five playoff games, the Avs conceded the first goal. Even coughing up the early lead didn’t derail Colorado, who won their fifth successive playoff encounter.
There were a couple of positive takeaways the Blues will want to carry into Game 2.
The visitors kept the postseason’s most potent power-play at bay. The Avs, who scored at a 43.8% rate in the opening round, failed to score on three opportunities.
The Blues, in asymmetric and ruthless fashion, scored on their only power-play, equalizing with just 3:14 remaining. The Blues, who had the third-best power-play (33.3%) in the first round, will need to continuously rely on their power-play to turn this into a six or seven-game series.
Craig Berube’s team also prevented Nathan MacKinnon from scoring and kept Cale Makar off the scoresheet entirely, a promising prospect for the 2019 Cup winners. Although seeing the Avs win despite their top scorers being kept at bay doesn’t bode particularly well for the Blues.
Last and certainly not least, the Blues were woeful in the face-off circle, losing 64% of the draws. Avs’ lopsided advantage facilitated instantaneous puck possession and with it, sustained pressure and more shooting opportunities.
During their three-game regular-season series, the Blues won 48, 53 and 48% of the draws, respectively. Those numbers more match what the Blues expect from the rest of the series.
Outplayed in basically every facet on Tuesday night, the Blues still found a way, thanks to Binnington’s heroics, to drag the Avs into an unwanted overtime session. The Blues will want to rebound in Game 2 and prove they belong among the elite eight.
Expect the Blues to be substantially better overall and entirely more proficient on the draw on Thursday.
Game 2 will be another close one, but the Avs are simply too dominant at home and should have a two-game advantage when the series heads to St. Louis for Saturday’s Game 3.
Blues vs. Avalanche Best Bets
Spread: Blues +1.5 (-125)
Moneyline: Avs (-233)
Total: Over 6.5 (-125)
NHL Parlay Picks at BetMGM
BetMGM has you covered not only during the Stanley Cup playoffs, but throughout the NHL season. But the NHL playoffs are the perfect time for making NHL parlay picks in between examining the latest Stanley Cup betting odds.
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Calgary Flames vs. Dallas Stars Odds, Lines, Picks & Predictions – NHL, May 13
Flames vs. Stars best bets, betting odds, over/under & moneyline for Friday, plus team trends & player stats
This content was produced by The Hockey News' sponsor, BetMGM.
After an anemic first two periods, the Calgary Flames got their act together in the third for a 3-1 Game 5 win, pushing the Dallas Stars to the brink of elimination.
NHL playoff odds shifted dramatically in the aftermath of Game 5, now positioning the Flames as behemoth -714 favorites. NHL betting lines have the Dallas Stars as heavy +500 underdogs.
It was clear Calgary knew what was at stake going into the third period trailing by a goal. The Flames were a woeful 2-14-3 when trailing after two periods in the regular season, the worst record of all playoff teams.
Yet they overturned the one-goal deficit in emphatic fashion, outshooting the visiting Stars 16-5 in the final stanza. It was the second game in a row the Flames erupted for three third-period goals.
Flames vs. Stars Odds, Moneyline, Over/Under
Moneyline: Flames -167 | Stars +140
Spread: Flames -1.5 (+155) | Stars +1.5 (-189)
Total: 5.5 Over +110 | Under -133
Flames vs. Stars Analysis
In Game 5 and for the first time in the series, the team that scored first lost. Dallas went ahead on a fortuitous bounce in the second period but couldn’t withstand Calgary’s third-period onslaught.
Don’t expect the same trend to continue in Game 6.
The tight-checking series will be even more hotly contested in a potentially decisive Game 6, making it hard to conceive of either team, in such a monumentally important encounter, overturning an early deficit.
The save-percentage gap between Jake Oettinger and Jacob Markstrom diminishes each game, with the Flames netminder set to surpass his Dallas counterpart with one more outstanding performance.
Based on the way Markstrom is seeing the puck, that seems like a foregone conclusion. Markstrom has a second-best 1.21 goals against average (GAA) and a third-best .952 save percentage.
Oettinger is third in GAA (1.63), a single spot behind Markstrom. The 23-year-old has a second-best .956 save percentage, a single spot ahead of the Flames’ Vezina candidate.
As was the narrative for most of the year in Calgary, Markstrom is the gatekeeper and holds the key to any prospective deep playoff run.
Continuously seeing the puck through dense and immovable traffic, the 32-year-old is dialed in, calm and, for a man who has never advanced past the second round, uncannily composed.
The Stars did an excellent job of frustrating Calgary and its fans for 40 minutes of Game 5’s cagey affair. If they play like that again in Game 6, they have every chance of extending the series to a seventh and decisive game.
However, Markstrom will have to play his worst game of the series for that to happen, an unlikely scenario.
Although the Flames are clearly not at their best, they scored three goals in the third period of Games 4 and 5 and are finding unconventional ways to win.
The Flames, even more forebodingly for the Stars, are much better on the road, evinced by their almost-flawless Game 4 victory and second-best regular season away record.
While Dallas will leave everything on the ice in Game 6, the Flames, thanks to Markstrom and their opportunistic nature on the road, should prevail and finally oust the resilient seventh seed.
Flames vs. Stars Best Bets
Spread: Flames -1.5 (+155)
Moneyline: Flames (-167)
Winning Margin: Flames to Score First (-143)
NHL Parlay Picks at BetMGM
BetMGM has you covered not only during the Stanley Cup playoffs, but throughout the NHL season. But the NHL playoffs are the perfect time for making NHL parlay picks in between examining the latest Stanley Cup betting odds.
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New York Rangers vs. Pittsburgh Penguins Odds, Lines, Picks & Predictions – NHL, May 9
The Pittsburgh Penguins showed the New York Rangers what it takes to win in the playoffs in Game 3. What'll happen in Game 4?
This content was produced by The Hockey News' sponsor, BetMGM.
This first-round series has been great when it comes to NHL betting.
The Pittsburgh Penguins showed the New York Rangers what it takes to win in the playoffs. Game 3 was anything but boring for fans of both teams, as the Pens opened with a big lead in the first period, the Rangers evened things in the second, and Pittsburgh closed it out in the third.
Below are NHL betting picks and analysis for Monday’s Game 4.
Rangers vs. Penguins Odds, Moneyline, Over/Under
Moneyline: Rangers -120 | Penguins +100
Spread: Rangers -1.5 (+200) | Penguins +1.5 (-250)
Total: Over 6 (-110) | Under 6 (-110)
Rangers vs. Penguins Analysis
In Game 3, the Penguins chased the Vezina Trophy favorite out of the net after scoring four in the opening period.
Pittsburgh put four goals past Igor Shesterkin, forcing the Rangers to turn to Alexandar Georgiev. Evan Rodrigues assisted Jeff Carter’s net finder and then added back-to-back goals in the opening frame. Carter would later add an empty netter as well while Danton Heinen had the game-winner in the third.
Louis Domingue held things down between the pipes, saving 32 of the 36 shots he faced.
Domingue remains Pittsburgh’s only backstop, with Tristan Jarry still on the shelf and Casey DeSmith’s season coming to an end due to core muscle surgery. However, Jarry was back on the ice skating on Saturday, so perhaps he could return sooner rather than later. Rickard Rakell is still out with an undisclosed injury.
Meanwhile, the goalie drama doesn’t end in Pittsburgh with Shesterkin getting chased from the net is an outcome we didn’t see coming. He only lost back-to-back games three times during the regular season, so expect him to bounce back in Game 4.
After an awful first period, the Rangers returned with three unanswered in the second. Frank Vatrano and Artemi Panarin each scored a goal to bring New York within one goal before Andrew Copp added a short-hander to even the score at four.
Against the puck line, New York is 43-42 and 23-19 on the road, while Pittsburgh is 42-43 and 18-24 at home. A couple of trends to consider are the over is 5-1 in the Rangers’ past six games and the over is 4-0 in the Penguins’ past four.
It seems unlikely that Pittsburgh will be able to maintain this kind of offensive output against Shesterkin through the entire series. The NHL playoffs tend to be a game of momentum, whether in a game or a full series.
However, Shesterkin has a will to win that few goalies could match this season. Expect him to come back with a vengeance and close the door on the Penguins. Look for New York to even the series at two after Game 4.
Rangers vs. Penguins Predictions
The Picks: Rangers moneyline (-120), Over 6 (-110)
NHL Parlay Picks at BetMGM
BetMGM has you covered not only during the Stanley Cup playoffs, but throughout the NHL season. But the NHL playoffs are the perfect time for making NHL parlay picks in between examining the latest Stanley Cup betting odds.
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Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Toronto Maple Leafs Odds, Lines, Picks & Predictions – NHL, May 4
Lightning vs. Maple Leafs best bets, betting odds, over/under & moneyline for Wednesday, plus team trends & player stats.
This content was produced by The Hockey News' sponsor, BetMGM.
When Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe drew up the game plan in advance of playing the back-to-back Stanley Cup Champions, he probably never envisioned it being executed so perfectly.
The Stanley Cup betting odds prior to Game 1 puck drop had the Maple Leafs as -120 favorites to win the series. The NHL playoff odds have since shifted, now pegging Toronto as heavier -200 favorites to oust the defending champs.
Lightning vs. Maple Leafs Odds, Moneyline, Over/Under
Moneyline: Lightning +105 | Maple Leafs -125
Spread: Lightning +1.5 (-238) | Maple Leafs -1.5 (+195)
Total: 6 Over -120 | Under +100
Lightning vs. Maple Leafs Analysis
By now Toronto fans know not to get carried away after a single win in an opening-round series. However, there were an abundance of promising takeaways from the Maple Leafs 5-0 whitewash of Tampa on home ice in Game 1.
Toronto had immeasurably more energy and played with the kind of desperation they’ll need to sustain throughout the series to vanquish the most wiley and resilient team from the last two playoffs.
The Maple Leafs had a five-on-five expected goals total of 2.38 and an expected goals total in all situations of 4.92.
Toronto looked particularly dangerous on the powerplay, which comes as no surprise considering the Buds had the best power-play in the regular season, executing at an outrageously proficient 27.2%.
Toronto only went 1-for-6 with the man advantage, but created bundles of high-quality scoring chances and should have scored more.
Even though Andrei Vasilevskiy was hung out to dry for large periods of the series opener, he still would have expected a far superior outing.
Vasilevskiy managed a substandard .844 save percentage and actually had a -0.3 goals saved above expected. He allowed more than he should have, an outcome almost as rare as a Maple Leafs’ first-round playoff series win.
Toronto, especially Marner and Matthews, will most certainly feel an adrenaline-like boost in confidence after thrashing the Lightning. Combining for five points including three goals, Austin Matthews and Mitch Marner proved throngs of naysayers wrong, vanquishing the evil entities of playoffs past.
While the list of positives from Toronto’s Game 1 dominance is as long as a new mother’s to-do list, the slate, at least relatively speaking, is wiped clean for Game 2, especially considering the quality Tampa possesses.
The back-to-back defending Stanley Cup champions have been here before and are accustomed to the emotional highs and lows of playoff hockey.
Expect a bounce-back performance from the visitors, who, according to NHL betting lines, are pegged as +105 underdogs in Game 2.
The entire Lightning contingent will be immeasurably better on Wednesday night, including Vasilevskiy, who is a remarkably flawless 14-0 with a .966 save percentage and five shutouts after a loss in the last two playoffs.
While the old adage states that records are meant to be broken, it’s hard to conceive of Vasilevskiy or the Lightning secreting successive stinkers.
Expect the Lightning to take a split back to Tampa.
Lightning vs. Maple Leafs Game 2 Best Bets
Spread: Lightning +1.5 (-238)
Moneyline: Lightning (+105)
Winning Margin: Lightning by 1 (+725)
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Stanley Cup Playoffs: Flames Should Have Easy Time With Stars
The NHL playoffs are underway. Here’s a look at the Calgary Flames-Dallas Stars series, which might not be much of a contest.
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By Gary Pearson, BetMGM
The Calgary Flames have grand intentions as the 2022 playoffs commence, but first they must find a way past the Dallas Stars in the first round.
NHL betting lines have the Flames as pronounced -303 series favorites. Only Colorado and Florida are heavier favorites in their respective first-round series.
Dallas took care of Calgary in the first round of the 2020 postseason, a unique bubble-style tournament that saw every game played in Edmonton.
Things have changed drastically since.
The Flames are stacked at every position and aren’t encumbered by any glaring weakness. Other than an unprecedented COVID-19 outbreak in December, they’ve managed to stay relatively healthy throughout the 2021-22 campaign, a key reason for their success.
Flames Took Two of Three in Season Series
A few interesting trends developed when the Stars and Flames pitted their skills against each other in three regular-season encounters.
First, and arguably most important, the team that scored first one every contest.
During the season, Calgary relied on its unrivaled propensity to score first. No team scored first more than the Flames, who opened the account 54 times. Calgary triumphed in 72 percent of those 54 encounters, winning 39 games.
Those 39 wins accounted for 78% of the Flames’ entire collection of regular-season triumphs.
The two teams alternated wins when the contest was decided by a single goal. Dallas, as heavy +250 underdogs when it comes to NHL odds, will look to its superior record in one-goal games as a decisive, albeit rare, advantage heading into the series.
Dallas was the second-best team in one-goal games, winning 70% of such encounters. Compare that to Calgary’s wildly subpar 26th-ranked 40% winning rate.
Contrary to how the season unfolded for the Flames, where they scored 93 first-period goals, the third-most in the NHL, Dallas outscored Calgary 3-1 in the first period. The Stars will need to find a way to extend that first-period success against the Flames to have any chance of an upset.
Jacob Markstrom was one of the best netminders all season and is expected to guide the Flames to eminent heights. The Swede, who was pulled in Calgary’s comeback win in Dallas on Feb. 1, endured two uncommonly substandard outings against the Stars.
Two of his three starts against Dallas resulted in save percentages of .857 and .870, a far cry from his fourth-best .922 save percentage over the course of the entire campaign.
Markstrom’s subpar save percentage against the Stars should be seen as an uncharacteristic anomaly, a mere blip. He should be back to his otherworldly best in Game 1.
Flames Will Advance Into Second Round
Despite a few slightly disconcerting trends arising against the Stars, Calgary enters the playoffs brimming with confidence. They have an abundance of scoring options, a bonafide No.1 goaltender and execute an unforgiving, robust physical style of play.
Calgary had the second-best away record (25-12-4), the sixth-best offense (3.55 goals per game), the third-stingiest defense (2.51 goals against) and the best record in the NHL since Jan. 15.
The mismatch on paper couldn’t be starker. The Flames, aside from the Stars’ superior mark in one-goal games, have the advantage positionally and analytically.
Of course, regular-season analytics count for nothing come Game 1 of the NHL playoffs, but Darryl Sutter’s team is built especially for the postseason.
Calgary’s dogged, uncompromising bench boss spent the entire season fine-tuning, tinkering and preparing his team for what awaits.
The Flames are superior on the blueline, between the pipes and up front. Dallas’ starting netminder, Jake Oettinger, has no postseason experience and will be thrown into the fire in Calgary on Tuesday night.
Dallas, aside from its formidable top line, struggles to score. The trio of Joe Pavelski, Jason Robertson and Roope Hintz scored 105 of 233 (45%) Dallas’ goals.
Even the Stars’ most prized possession, a formidable first line, doesn’t measure up to Calgary’s ace triumvirate, all of whom scored 40 or more goals. MVP candidate Johnny Gaudreau, Matthew Tkachuk, the league’s 8th-highest scorer, and Selke candidate Elias Lindholm were the best line in the NHL, statistically speaking.
The Flames need to concentrate on keeping Dallas’ dynamic triumvirate of Pavelski, Robertson and Hintz in check. If they manage that task proficiently, a place in Round 2 awaits for the well-rounded Flames.
Flames vs Stars Best Bets
Series Winner: Calgary Flames -303Series Total Games Over/Under: Under 5.5 (+120) Series Top Goal Scorer: Matthew Tkachuk +400
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Stanley Cup Playoffs Picks: Why the Hurricanes Will Beat the Bruins
Will the Carolina Hurricanes come out on top over the Boston Bruins?
By Gary Pearson, BetMGM
After being humiliated in all three regular-season encounters against Carolina, the Boston Bruins have a point to prove in their first-round series against the favored Hurricanes.
The Hurricanes are -120 favorites, according to NHL playoff odds, to oust the Bruins. Carolina enjoyed a sensational 8-2-0 run in the final 10 games, capping off what was an outstanding regular season.
Almost as good both home and away, the Hurricanes enter the playoffs brimming with confidence. Rod Brind’Amour’s team had the third-best away record (25-12-4) and fifth-best home record (29-8-4).
The Bruins were also road warriors and had the sixth-best away record, going 25-13-3 over the course of the year.
Had it not been for Frederik Andersen’s recent lower-body injury which will prevent him from starting Game 1 on Monday evening, Carolina would be more prohibitive favorites when it comes to NHL odds for the series.
Carolina Humiliated Boston in Regular Season Series
When you look up the definition of whitewash in the dictionary, you’ll find a picture of the Boston Bruins running for cover, looking for a way to escape the Hurricanes’ relentless onslaught.
Carolina beat up on Boston this season, winning all three games by a combined 16-1 score. The first ended 3-0, the second 7-1 and the third, yet another shutout, this time by a 6-0 margin.
Aside from hits, Boston was outclassed in pretty much every other facet, begging the question, can the Bruins find a way to bridge the wide gap when they travel to Carolina on Monday night?
Is Frederik Andersen’s Injury the Great Equalizer?
Andersen will not play on Monday night. That much is known. He hit the ice on Sunday for the first time since sustaining a lower-body injury against Colorado on April 16.
However, the date of his specific return is unknown. The Hurricanes will either start Game 1 with Antti Raanta or rookie Pyotr Kochetkov, who made his NHL debut on April 23, less than two weeks ago.
Kochetkov, with a 3-0-0 record, 2.42 GAA and .902 save percentage, has been solid in the inchoate stage of his NHL career. But surely it’s too soon to give him the nod in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Raanta will probably start Game 1 for the favored Hurricanes.
The Bruins also have a goaltending dilemma to siphon through.
Both Jeremy Swayman and Linus Ullmark made 41 starts and shared the load in the regular season. Swayman and Ullmark performed well, with both netminders among the top 10 GAA.
Boston will probably go with whichever goaltender performing the best on that given day, rotating on a game-to-game basis if need be. Historically, that’s never been a winning formula at this time of year. Ullmark, who has played well in recent weeks, should get the Game 1 assignment.
Even if Andersen is unable to return early in the series, the Hurricanes should have just about enough to get by the Bruins.
Hurricanes vs. Bruins Best Bets
Series Winner: Carolina Hurricanes -120
Series to End in Six Games: +200
Carolina to Win 4-2: +500
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Stanley Cup Odds: Can Flames, Maple Leafs or Oilers Make a Run?
The Stanley Cup playoffs are right around the corner, so it’s worth wondering if a Canadian team is capable of making a run.
This content was produced by The Hockey News' sponsor, BetMGM.
We are just days away from the start of the NHL’s post-season and that means it’s time to look at the current Stanley Cup odds, specifically North of the border, where a Canadian team has failed to take home hockey’s Holy Grail since the Montreal Canadiens managed to do so in 1993.
This year, only three of the seven Canadian teams will have that opportunity — the Calgary Flames, Toronto Maple Leafs, and the Edmonton Oilers.
How realistic is a Stanley Cup run for those clubs?
Calgary Flames +700
With NHL odds to win the Stanley Cup, +700, oddsmakers currently give the Flames the best shot of bringing Lord Stanley back to Canada. Calgary has been one of the league’s hottest teams in the year’s second half, en route to finishing first in the Pacific Division with 111 points and counting.
Offensively, the Flames are the first club since the 1995-96 Pittsburgh Penguins to feature four 35-plus goal scorers in Johnny Gaudreau, Elias Lindholm, Matthew Tkachuk, and Andrew Mangiapane.
Darryl Sutter’s group has also been one of the league’s elite squads defensively, allowing the third-fewest goals-per-game (2.51), largely thanks to the tremendous play of goaltender Jacob Markstrom (2.22 GAA, .922 SV%).
That type of balanced play makes Calgary poised for a deep playoff run.
Toronto Maple Leafs +1000
Maple Leafs fans know the story by now – a tremendous regular season, only to fall short in the opening round.
Well, Toronto has once again looked like one of the league’s most dangerous teams, locking up the second spot in the Atlantic Division with 113 points (one game remaining), highlighted by Auston Matthews’s spectacular 60-goal campaign. However, the Leafs are set for a tough round one, with a matchup against either their nemesis, the Boston Bruins, or the defending Stanley Cup Champion Tampa Bay Lightning awaiting them.
That said, this feels like a situation where if Sheldon Keefe’s team can get the monkey off their back, then the sky is the limit.
Talent has certainly never been an issue.
Edmonton Oilers +1800
Sitting second in the Pacific with 102 points, the Oilers return to the postseason for just the third time in the Connor McDavid era. It was a tale of two seasons in Edmonton, with the Oilers looking poised to miss the playoffs before a midseason coaching change lit a spark.
McDavid and Co. are 26-12 under new head coach Jay Woodcroft, giving fans hope that their team can finally make some noise when the games matter most.
Led by two of the league’s elite players in McDavid (123 points) and Leon Draisaitl (110 points), Edmonton can score with anyone. The biggest question remains goaltending, as Woodcroft will roll with 40-year-old Mike Smith for the team’s first-round matchup against the Los Angeles Kings.
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NHL Best Bets Today: Jonathan Toews Has Good Value (Apr. 25)
This is it, the final week of the NHL regular season, but somehow we’re left with one measly game Monday night.
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This is it, the final week of the NHL regular season, but somehow we’re left with one measly game Monday night.
When it comes to NHL betting, many will look to the NHL betting lines, but player props are a nice alternative, especially on a night when there’s only one game.
That game is the Philadelphia Flyers taking on the Chicago Blackhawks. Here are some of the player props I am looking at.
Jonathan Toews (Chicago Blackhawks) – Over 0.5 Points (-115), Any Time Goal Scorer (+280)
No matter how bad things get in Chicago, Jonathan Toews is always there to pick the team up. The veteran center plays a hard-checking two-way game and although he’s light on points this year, the captain is starting to find his way onto the scoresheet.
Toews has points in three of his past four games, totaling four assists over that span. Still, the former Selke Trophy winner remains well off his expected goals-for rating, posting an actual mark of 44.6% below his expected value of 47.7%.
That implies that there’s still room to grow for Toews, who remains below his career averages in points per game and shooting percentage.
The Blackhawks deploy Toews on their powerplay unit, giving him the fourth-most time with the man advantage. Toews and the Hawks will have plenty of opportunities to cash in against the Flyers’ 24th-ranked penalty kill, which allows goals 24.4% of the time.
I am anticipating Toews to continue his recent upswing against the Flyers. The 33-year-old has one of the shortest prices on his 0.5-point total and is a steep +280 as an anytime goal scorer. I see the value in both.
Owen Tippett (Philadelphia Flyers) – Any Time Goal Scorer (+275)
The Blackhawks have been entirely ineffective at preventing goals, allowing four or more tallies in seven of their past eight games.
That should mean big things for a Flyers offense that has recorded 10 goals over their past couple of games. Owen Tippett has been trending positively over his recent sample and we’re expecting his effort to pay off against the Hawks.
Tippett isn’t the Flyers’ most prolific scorer, finding the back of the net nine times in 60 games, but he’s recently taken on an increased role with the team. Since the trade deadline, the 23-year-old is playing above-average minutes, and more recently, he’s amplified his presence in the attacking zone.
Tippett has 13 shots on net over his previous four outings, directing five shots on target twice over that stretch.
Those performances are part of a more sincere effort from the team, as Philadelphia has attempted 46 high-danger chances over the four-game sample, well above their season average of 8.1 quality opportunities per game. That’s compatible with a downturn in the Hawks’ defensive metrics, as they’ve allowed 12 high-danger chances in three of their past five.
This season, the Flyers have been rudderless offensively, with no player recording more than 51 points. Tippett has increased his role on the team over the past month and I am expecting that to pay off against the Hawks on Monday night.
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Ranking NHL Arenas: Smallest to Largest by Capacity
Learn a bit about all 32 arenas in the NHL and how each building's capacity compares to the rest of the league.
This content was produced in partnership with The Hockey News' sponsor, BetMGM.
Just like some NHL teams, some arenas are simply different than others, most notably by design and capacity.
We’ve created a list of every NHL arena according to the venue’s max capacity for NHL games. Here, we take a look at these venues and share some interesting facts about their history.
32. Canada Life Centre – 15,321
Home team: Winnipeg Jets
This arena may be new, but it’s also relatively small compared to other venues that were opened around the early 2000s.
The Bell MTS Place opened in 2004 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and was designed to replace the Winnipeg Arena. The arena had a controversial development, as it used to be home to Eaton’s, a retailer with a long history in Canada. Several groups tried to stop the redevelopment of the space, but fortunately for hockey fans (and unfortunately for Eaton’s fans), the ground was cleared for the new arena in 2002.
31. Prudential Center – 16,514
Home team: New Jersey Devils
The Prudential Center, more affectionately known as “The Rock”, was originally built to ensure that the New Jersey Devils’ franchise would remain in New Jersey, after rumors suggested it might move to a new location with better facilities.
The Newark-based Center hosts community games organized by the nonprofit organization, the New Jersey Warriors Hockey. This organization is home to more than two dozen disabled veterans who get together to play hockey as a part of their recovery.
30. UBS Arena – 17,113
Home team: New York Islanders
After nearly 50 years at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, the New York Islanders moved 10 miles west to the $1-billion UBS Arena in Elmont.
The arena wasn’t completed in time for the 2021-22 preseason, therefore the Islanders played their home preseason games at Webster Bank Arena in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Their first regular-season game came on Nov. 20, 2021.
29. Gila River Arena – 17,125
Home team: Arizona Coyotes
The Gila River Arena is part of the $1 billion Westgate Entertainment District development in Glendale, Arizona. The Coyotes’ previous venue, the America West Arena, had not been built with NHL games in mind, and developers struggled to adapt it for a regulation NHL-size hockey rink. This and other issues motivated the Coyotes to find a new location for the team, which turned out to be what is now known as the Gila River Arena.
If you’re a fan of hockey, the Coyotes, and craft beer (or even just craft beer), you can enjoy the official Coyotes brew, the Yotes Pale Ale, at the arena.
28. Climate Pledge Arena – 17,151
Home team: Seattle Kraken
The Seattle Kraken are the youngest team in the NHL but they play in the league’s oldest arena.
Built in 1962 and originally named the Washington State Pavilion, the venue underwent a billion-dollar ($1.15 billion) renovation before the Kraken arrived in 2021. It reopened to the public in mid-October 2021 before the Kraken played their first regular-season game four days later.
27. Bridgestone Arena – 17,159
Home team: Nashville Predators
This arena in Nashville, Tennessee has been in existence since 1996, and has taken home the Arena of the Year award twice. Notable NHL events that have taken place in this arena include the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, as well as Games 3, 4, and 6 of the 2017 Stanley Cup Finals.
Just after a decade of operation, the decision was made to begin renovations in 2007. Since then, three more renovations have taken place, introducing new seating and a new scoreboard.
26. Honda Center – 17,174
Home team: Anaheim Ducks
Originally known as the Anaheim Arena and based in the Californian town of the same name, the Honda Center first opened its doors in 1993, and would later go on to host Games 3, 4 and 6 of the 2003 Stanley Cup Finals, as well as Games 1, 2 and 5 of the 2007 Stanley Cup Finals.
This arena was used for shooting scenes of the 1994 hockey movie D2: The Mighty Ducks, and has a store dedicated to Mighty Ducks merchandise.
25. T-Mobile Arena – 17,368
Home team: Vegas Golden Knights
This arena in Paradise, Las Vegas is owned by AEG and MGM Resorts International and operated by MGM Resorts International. Due to its desert location, where resources such as water and electricity are harder to come by, it was designed with sustainability in mind – and the arena received a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Certification from the US Green Building Council for its approach.
Golden Knights fans also had the pleasure of watching three games from the 2018 Stanley Cup Finals in this arena, even if the Washington Capitals were the ones to raise the Cup at the end of the series.
24. SAP Center – 17,562
Home team: San Jose Sharks
Another one of the older arenas that’s still in operation, the SAP Center is home to the San Jose Sharks, which has resulted in it becoming known as “The Shark Tank”. The venue, which almost failed to pass a vote for community approval, came into being thanks to the efforts of a community group called Fund Arena Now. But soon after construction, upgrades had to be made for the arena to qualify for NHL and NBA use.
The SAP Center hosted the 1997 and 2019 NHL All-Star Games, as well as Games 3, 4, and 6 of the Stanley Cup Finals.
23. TD Garden – 17,565
Home team: Boston Bruins
The largest sports and entertainment arena in New England, TD Garden was built as a replacement for the Boston Garden. However, it took decades for the plan to finally get off the ground, and it was only in 1995 that the TD Garden was opened. Since then the arena has hosted the Bruins, and two major NHL events: the 1996 NHL All-Star Game, and the 1999 NHL Draft.
The arena has also demonstrated its love of hockey with a magnificent statue of Bobby Orr, based on the photo of his winning goal in the 1970 Stanley Cup.
22. Ball Arena – 17,809
Home team: Colorado Avalanche
This arena used to be called the Pepsi Center, under which it operated for just over 21 years. However, the naming rights were purchased by the Ball Corporation in 1999, which saw the venue adopt the new name: the Ball Arena. Based in Denver, Colorado, the venue has hosted the 2001 NHL All-Star Game, as well as Games 1, 2, 5, and 7 of the 2001 Stanley Cup Finals, with the Avalanche raising the cup at the end of the 7th game.
One of the benefits of watching at the Ball Arena is the “ball/puck in play” policy, which states that arena guests must wait at the top of the aisle or the bottom of the stairs when the puck is in play. Ushers are there to enforce these rules and ensure spectators aren’t affected by people unnecessarily walking around.
21. Xcel Energy Center – 17,954
Home team: Minnesota Wild
After the Minnesota North Stars moved the franchise to Dallas, it became clear that a new arena would be necessary if Saint Paul wanted to attract and retain a sports franchise. The Xcel Energy Center opened in September 2000, with the first NHL game taking place between the Minnesota Wild and the Philadelphia Flyers in early October of that year. The arena is home to Hocktoberfest, hosted by the Minnesota Wild, and it has also hosted the 2004 NHL All Star Game.
20. Madison Square Garden – 18,006
Home team: New York Rangers
It doesn’t matter if you’re a hockey fan or not, you’ve probably heard of Madison Square Garden, which is an iconic location to locals, and has featured in many films. Non-American citizens might not know that the arena is also known as “The Garden”, or simply “MSG”. Unlike many other arenas, it’s the last arena to maintain its original identity and not have to adopt a corporate sponsorship name.
MSG is the oldest arena on this list, having first opened its doors to the public in 1968. It’s this history that makes it one of the most important arenas on our list, even if it can’t host as many people as newer venues can.
19. Enterprise Center – 18,096
Home team: St. Louis Blues
In 1985, The St. Louis Blues were thinking about packing up the franchise for greener pastures. The business community did not want to see their local team go, so they put together a strategy to buy the team. However, it would take five years of planning, and as far as they had gotten, they realized they needed a modern, professional arena to keep the Blues around. This began the development of the new arena in St. Louis: the Enterprise Center, which opened in October 1994.
The arena recently hosted the 2020 NHL All-Star Game, and St. Louis Blues fans can visit the Hall of Fame Plaza for even more NHL excitement.
18. Nationwide Arena – 18,144
Home team: Columbus Blue Jackets
Desperately in need of a modern sports arena, the City of Columbus, Ohio officially opened the Nationwide Arena in September 2000. This, combined with the development of an NHL franchise in 1996, saw the NHL return to the region. Before the Columbus Blues, the last team that had done so were the Cleveland Barons, who last played in 1978.
Hockey fans are sure to get a kick out of the replica cannon, which fires at exciting moments during a Blue Jackets game.
17. Crypto.com Arena – 18,230
Home team: Los Angeles Kings
While the Staples Center may be better known as the home of the LA Lakers and the LA Clippers, it’s also home to the local NHL team, the LA Kings. The Star Plaza, just outside the arena, is home to a number of statues of famous LA athletes. NHL fans can set their eyes upon statues of Wayne Gretzky, Luc Robitaille, as well as Kings broadcaster Bob Miller. A statue that commemorates the Kings’ Stanley Cup winning teams is also on display, as well as banners for retired numbers and murals of cornerstone moments in the Staples Center’s sporting history.
16. Rogers Place – 18,347
Home team: Edmonton Oilers
The Northlands Coliseum, which was first opened in 1974, grew too outdated to meet the needs of modern sports teams, which resulted in the construction of Rogers Place. This sports arena – in Edmonton, Alberta – is actually one of the newest arenas on our list, only opening in 2016 (the only newer arena is Little Caesars).
This arena was one of the three venues used by the NHL for the Playoffs bubble, and was the only one used for the Finals’ bubble. If you are an Oilers’ fan, you can also visit the Oilers Hall of Fame, or if you’re watching a game, enjoy the antics of Hunter, the Oilers’ mascot.
15. PPG Paints Arena – 18,387
Home team: Pittsburgh Penguins
The PPG Paints Arena is another venue that was built to replace another aging arena. In this case, it was the Pittsburgh Civic Arena, which was originally built in 1961. This new arena was designed with the latest technology in mind, including hi-tech luxury suites, and a focus on sustainability, with the arena being the first NHL arena to be awarded a LEED Gold Certification.
NHL fans who visit this arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania can also take in a magnificent statue, called Le Magnifique, of Mario Lemieux as he scores against the New York Islanders in 1988. They can also marvel at banners for the Penguins’ Stanley Cup wins, retired jersey numbers, and other awards that the team has earned.
14. Capital One Arena – 18,506
Home team: Washington Capitals
You can find this arena in the heart of downtown Washington D.C., where it was built to help bring attention to the surrounding area, which it’s succeeded in doing since it opened its doors in 1997. The arena goes a bit further than many venues in catering for people with special needs. A partnership with KultureCity has allowed it to help provide support to those with additional sensory needs, which can be requested from the arena’s staff.
The venue has hosted the 1998 Stanley Cup and 2018 Stanley Cup Finals. In 2018, the Capitals were able to take home the cup for the first time, and fans are reminded of this momentous occasion by the 2018 championship banner, which hangs from the roof of the arena.
13. American Airlines Center – 18,532
Home team: Dallas Stars
The Reunion Arena was no longer meeting the needs of the Dallas Stars, and the American Airlines Center opened its doors in 2001 to offer the NHL team, as well as other local sports organizations, a new and improved venue for play. The design and appearance of the venue, as well as the naming rights being owned by American Airlines, has resulted in the arena being affectionately nicknamed “The Hangar”.
Fans will have the opportunity to view all the NHL trophies that Stars players have received, as well as a replica of the Stanley Cup. You’ll also be able to meet the team’s mascot, participate in fan contests, and enjoy a show from the Dallas Stars Ice Girls.
12. Canadian Tire Centre – 18,652
Home team: Ottawa Senators
This arena in the Canadian capital has gone through many names since it was first opened in January 1996, but one thing that never changed was its focus on the NHL. The opening-day event may have been a Bryan Adams concert, but it was only two days after first welcoming visitors that the first major NHL game took place, between the Montréal Canadiens and the Senators. This arena has also hosted Games 3 and 4 of the 2007 Stanley Cup Finals, the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, and the 2012 NHL All-Star Game.
11. PNC Arena – 18,680
Home team: Carolina Hurricanes
This arena in Raleigh, North Carolina was originally designed for basketball, before being adapted into a multi-sport arena. It opened in October 1999, undergoing several name changes before settling on its current name in March 2012.
NHL fans got to experience the new arena on its opening night, when the Hurricanes played against the New Jersey Devils. It then hosted the playoff series in 2001, as well as Games 3, 4, and 6 of the 2001 Stanley Cup Playoffs. It also hosted the Playoffs and Finals for the Stanley Cup in the following year. The Hurricanes were not able to take home victory either of these years, and it was only in 2006, the third time the arena hosted the Playoffs and Finals, that the Hurricanes beat the Edmonton Oilers and claimed the Stanley Cup.
The Playoffs once again took place at the venue in 2009, and once more a decade later in 2019.
10. Rogers Arena – 18,910
Home team: Vancouver Canucks
After the Pacific Coliseum, which had been operating since 1968, was deemed no longer suitable as the home of Vancouver’s NHL and NBA teams, a new venue was needed to host major events in Vancouver. The General Motors Palace, known as the Rogers Arena since July 2010, was built to fulfill this need.
This venue is another arena that’s taken extra steps to provide services for those with special needs, including additional wheelchair access and seating locations, special captioning for those with hearing impairments, and additional services for those with autism.
This venue hosted the ice hockey games for the 2010 Winter Olympics, as well as Games 1, 2, 5, and 7 of the 2011 Stanley Cup Finals. Fans visiting Rogers Arena can get a great view of the retired numbers and the players who wore them, thanks to the banners hanging from the roof.
9. KeyBank Center – 19,070
Home team: Buffalo Sabres
When the Sabres needed a new home to replace the Memorial Auditorium, the KeyBank Center was constructed. In October 1996, a few weeks after the arena first opened its doors, the Sabres played their first game in their new home. Since then, the Buffalo, New York venue has undergone numerous renovations, including updates to the Sabres color scheme and logo, additional seating, as well as new LED boards and signage.
The arena hosted the 1998 NHL Entry Draft, the 2016 NHL Entry Draft almost two decades later, and Games 3, 4, and 6 of the 1999 Stanley Cup Finals. Other non-NHL events that were hosted by the arena include an IIHF World Junior Championship, and an Ontario Hockey League contest.
NHL fans who visit the arena will be able to enjoy the various items on display to celebrate the team’s history, as well as numerous statues, including one of the legendary defenseman Tim Horton.
8. Amalie Arena – 19,902
Home team: Tampa Bay Lightning
Originally known as the Ice Palace, the Amalie Arena opened its doors in October 1996 in Tampa, Florida. This venue only came into existence after the original plans to build a major-league arena near the Tampa Stadium fell through.
This venue has seen some important moments in the Lightning’s history, including their first game at the venue against the New York Rangers on October 20, which they won 5-3. Other highlights include the 1999 NHL All-Star Game, hosting Games 1, 2, 5, and 7 of the 2004 Stanley Cup Finals, and hosting Games 1, 2, and 5 of the 2015 Stanley Cup Finals. Despite winning the 2020 Stanley Cup, the finals were hosted at Rogers Place in the NHL bubble owing to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Fans can enjoy some of the team’s history in the Thunder Alley area in the arena, with several statues of key players on display.
7. FLA Live Arena – 19,250
Home team: Florida Panthers
The NHL team that would become known as the Florida Panthers started off without a home arena. Work began in 1996 on a new arena in Sunrise, Florida, and it opened to the public in October 1998. Six days later, the Florida Panthers played their first game against the Tampa Bay Lightning. The arena changed ownership numerous times over the years before BB&T took over in 2012. It become FLA Live Arena in 2021.
The arena has hosted three major NHL events: the 2001 and 2015 NHL Entry Draft events, as well as the 2003 NHL All-Star Game.
NHL and Panthers fans are able to enjoy the Den of Honor, a place where all the players who’ve excelled on the team are remembered. This includes 11 Hall of Fame players, two Rookies of the Year, and winners of the Rocket Richard Trophy.
6. Scotiabank Saddledome – 19,289
Home team: Calgary Flames
The Scotiabank Saddledome was built in 1983 as a replacement for the much smaller Stampede Corral. The Corral could only seat a maximum of 7,475 spectators, while the Saddledom offered almost three times that capacity. The growing interest in hosting the 1988 Winter Olympics, and the Calgary Flames joining the NHL were the two main reasons that this development get off the ground.
Disaster struck the arena in June 2013, when the Alberta floods hit the Saddledome. Hockey gear, video equipment, and the arena’s massive jumbotron were all damaged by the rampaging water. However, a commitment to have the arena back up and running saw repairs radically sped up as crews worked around the clock to fix the stadium. By September the arena reopened, with the first hockey game taking place three days after.
The Saddledome has hosted numerous important NHL events including the 1985 NHL All-Star Game, the 2000 NHL Entry Draft, and three Stanley Cup Finals in 1986, 1989, and 2004.
Despite losing some of their memorabilia to the floods in 2013, there are still a number of other sporting artifacts from events and teams for sports and hockey fans to enjoy. In the arena itself, Flames fans will also be able to take in the banners detailing the team’s achievements.
5. Little Caesars Arena – 19,515
Home team: Detroit Red Wings
The newest arena on our list, the Little Caesars Arena, opened to the public in 2017. This new arena, in Midtown Detroit, became the home for two teams, the Detroit Red Wings, as well as the Detroit Pistons. Their respective original homes, the Joe Louis Arena and The Palace of the Auburn Hills were closed after the teams moved, and both were demolished in 2020.
On September 23, 2017, just under three weeks after the new arena was opened, the Red Wings played against the Boston Bruins and won the game. Since then, the arena has hosted the Great Lakes Invitational, as well as the 2020 NCAA Men’s Frozen Four ice hockey events.
While not quite as impressive as some other arenas’ halls of fame, fans can view a number of exhibits and art, as well as retired numbers and championship banners for the Red Wings in the arena.
4. Wells Fargo Center – 19,543
Home team: Philadelphia Flyers
We’re into the top three for arenas with the largest capacity, and the Wells Fargo Center doesn’t disappoint. With a maximum capacity of 19,543, this arena opened to the public in 1996 in Pennsylvania’s largest city, and is home to three sporting teams: the Philadelphia Flyers, the Philadelphia 76ers, and the Philadelphia Wings.
Apart from hosting Flyers’ home games, the Wells Fargo Center has also hosted the 1997 Stanley Cup Finals, the 2010 Stanley Cup Finals, and the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.
The arena is also home to the Flyers’ mascot, Gritty, who can be spotted wandering the arena before Flyers’ games. True fans can show their support for the team (and Gritty) by getting “Grittified” at a local salon.
Before games, fans can always get their air hockey on, or enjoy many of the other arcade and table games, or even destroy items displaying the opposition’s branding in the recently opened rage room, dubbed the “Disassembly Room”.
3. United Center – 19,717
Home team: Chicago Blackhawks
The United Center, the second-largest arena on our list, welcomed the public on August 18, 1994. It was constructed to meet the needs of the Chicago Stadium, which was demolished in 1995. The Blackhawks share ownership of the arena with the Bulls in an even 50/50 deal, with the teams taking several opportunities over the years to upgrade the center. Over the decades, it has seen the introduction of flatscreen TVs, additional food and beverage stations, an additional court with a hardwood floor, and a new scoreboard.
The venue has hosted three Stanley Cups Finals – in 2010, 2013, and 2015. The Blackhawks have won all three finals that they took part in, but it was only the 2015 Stanley Cup that they won at home.
While “The Spirit” Michael Jordan statue may draw the most attention from sports fans, the United Center is also home to statues of Blackhawks’ finest: Bobby Hull and Stan Mikita. The arena is also filled with banners for both the Bulls’ and Blackhawks’ victories, which will undoubtedly make locals feel an overwhelming sense of pride in what their teams have accomplished.
2. Scotiabank Arena – 19,800
Home team: Toronto Maple Leafs
Scotiabank Arena was actually the site of a Canada Post building that was bought by the owners of the Toronto Raptors NBA team. During a development period that was marred by controversy, it was eventually converted into a multi-purpose arena, with the addition of facilities for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Despite being completed in late December 1998, the Toronto venue would only open two months later in February 1999. This arena would be known by several names, including The Hangar (not to be confused with the American Airlines Center, no.12 on our list), and the ACC (an abbreviation for when it was known as the Air Canada Center).
The Maple Leafs played their first game at the arena in February, a day after the venue opened. Since then the venue has hosted numerous hockey-related events, including the World Hockey Summit, and the 2015 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships.
1. Bell Centre – 21,302
Home team: Montreal Canadiens
The last and largest arena on our list is the Bell Centre with a maximum capacity of 21,302 spectators for NHL games. It opened in March 1996, and has since hosted the 2009 NHL All-Star Game, as well as the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Unfortunately, the Montreal Canadiens have yet to bring a Stanley Cup Final to this venue.
Starting in 2015, the decades-old venue underwent a number of upgrades, including new restaurants, replacing the arena’s seats, and adding Wi-Fi. Unfortunately, this was not enough to help the Bell Centre maintain its previous years’ sales, with Canadiens games frequently sold out. In 2018 however, the Montreal Gazette reported that the sellout streak was in jeopardy due to declining performance from the Canadiens.
Still, there are many dedicated Canadiens fans about today, and a lot for arena visitors to enjoy. If you go to the Bell Center, you can see the close on 20 numbers that have been retired by the team, hanging from the rafters. Fans can also take in the statue of historic Montreal Canadiens player, Guy “The Flower” Lafleur.
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Stanley Cup Odds: 3 Teams Worth a Futures Bet
With the Stanley Cup playoffs getting closer, here are three teams that are worth a futures bet.
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As the NHL playoffs inch ever closer, a number of teams are deserving of Stanley Cup futures consideration.
Some, like the Tampa Bay Lightning (+1000), Florida Panthers (+550) and Carolina Hurricanes (+1000), are strong contenders with enticing NHL playoff odds.
While making a case to back any of the aforementioned teams would be relatively straightforward, there are three other NHL teams more deserving when it comes to Stanley Cup betting.
Ordered from least to most likely to win the Stanley Cup along with their respective odds, these three teams are the best futures selections.
3. Toronto Maple Leafs (+1100)
There are numerous stigmas attached to the Maple Leafs, which might prevent you from backing them to win Lord Stanley. Don’t let history dictate your decision on this one, though.
Toronto hasn’t won a playoff series since beating the Ottawa Senators in 2004, but this version of the Maple Leafs feels different. I’m sure you’ve heard that before, but here’s why Toronto will finally turn over a new leaf.
First and foremost, they have Austin Matthews, a player who seemingly scores at will and is the odds-on favorite to win the NHL’s Hart Trophy. Yes, the playoffs are an entirely different beast but surely Matthews will use the sour taste of defeat from previous heart-breaking playoffs as added inspiration.
Some will say if you stop Matthews and linemate Mitch Marner, you stop the Leafs. That’s no longer the case.
With John Tavares, William Nylander, Morgan Rielly and Michael Bunting contributing when required, the Leafs have enough secondary scoring to support their top scorers.
The Leafs will probably have to go through either the Tampa Bay Lightning or Boston Bruins on their way to the Stanley Cup Final.
Both the Lightning and Bruins have had Toronto’s number in recent years, but character additions like Mark Giordano will strengthen the blueline while adding an integral leadership presence both on and off the ice.
Goaltending is still an area of concern for the Maple Leafs, who will rely on Jack Campbell to lift his team to playoff supremacy.
Campbell, if he doesn’t get rattled, maintains a high level of confidence and gets the support he needs, has the ability to backstop the Leafs all the way to the show.
2. Colorado Avalanche (+350)
The Colorado Avalanche are the best team in the Western Conference.
Formidably stacked at all positions, the Avs have an excellent group of defensemen and are equipped with an offensive arsenal, led by Nathan MacKinnon, to upend any team.
The Avs are favorites, with NHL playoff odds of +350, to win the Stanley Cup.
However, Colorado needs a few things to fall into place if they are to win it all for the first time since 2001.
The last time a Presidents’ Trophy recipient won the Stanley Cup was in 2012-13, when the Blackhawks triumphed. It might be an idea for the Avs to forfeit that meaningless honor to Florida, paving a clear path for Colorado’s meeting with destiny.
The second crucial element in a prospective Avs’ Cup-winning run depends on their captain’s health.
Gabriel Landeskog, who has been out since undergoing surgery on his knee in mid-March, is the heart and soul of the team. He contributes consistently offensively but is more valuable for his leadership presence.
If he returns for the playoffs and quickly gets back to his pre-injury form, the Avs have every chance of winning it all.
1. Calgary Flames (+900)
If the Calgary Flames get back to full health and don’t incur additional injuries to any pivotal players, they are the team your futures money should go on.
With NHL playoff odds currently at +900 to win it all, the Flames are destined to win their first Stanley Cup since 1989.
The Flames have the deepest squad of all contenders, the best netminder in Jacob Markstrom, who is among the favorites to win the Vezina Trophy, the most lethal first line in the league (Johnny Gaudreau, Elias Lindholm, Matthew Tkachuk), and a coach, Darryl Sutter, with a point to prove since his return to the city after leading Calgary to the 2004 finals.
The Flames – at the time of writing – average the sixth-most goals per game (3.49) and average the second-fewest goals against (2.46).
So long as they stay the course and continue to play the intense, high-octane brand of hockey their identity is based on, Calgary is where the smart money lies.
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NHL Against the Spread Records: Updated Puck Line Records
Which teams have the best ATS records in NHL betting this season?
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NHL betting is heating up as the regular season winds down and teams prepare to chase the Stanley Cup.
Through the first five months of the season, several teams have been dominant against the spread while others have been horrendous. And all 32 teams have contributed to several NHL betting trends, including those for well-rested favorites against teams playing the second half of a back-to-back, and road favorites in the game after a blowout loss.
As you check out updated puck lines for the final regular-season games, here are the updated NHL ATS records and over-under records (through April 12, 2022):
NHL ATS Records for 2021-22
What is the Puck Line in NHL Betting?
Puck line is hockey’s version of the point spread you see in most sports, including football and baseball.
In NFL betting, for example, the spread is the number of points by which one team is favored and one team is the underdog. The New Orleans Saints might be a 4.5-point favorite against the Cleveland Browns, which means the spread is 4.5 points. The spread is accompanied by odds (aka the vig), which is most often -110 for each team.
In NHL betting, the Colorado Avalanche might be a 1.5-goal favorite against the Detroit Red Wings, which means the puck line is 1.5 goals. However, unlike football betting, the puck line is almost always constant, -1.5 for the favorite and +1.5 for the underdog, and the odds vary. The Blackhawks’ -1.5 puck line might have odds of +140, and the Red Wings’ +1.5 might have odds of -120.
You can view all updated NHL puck lines and more hockey betting odds at the online sportsbook.
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NHL Players With Most Goals in a Season for a Canadian Team
After Auston Matthews broke Toronto's franchise goal record in a single season, here's a look at the top single-season goal-scorer from every Canadian franchise.
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Toronto Maple Leafs superstar Auston Matthews is scoring goals at a rate we haven’t seen since the early years of Alexander Ovechkin.
Through 66 games, the 24-year-old has tallied an incredible 56 goals to pass Rick Vaive for the Maple Leafs’ single-season record. What other top-goal-scoring seasons have we seen from players on Canadian teams?
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Here are the other NHL players with at least 50 goals in a season for a Canadian team:
Wayne Gretzky – 92 Goals (1981-82)
Team: Edmonton Oilers
Should we really be surprised to see the greatest hockey player of all time’s name mentioned here?
BetMGM ambassador Wayne Gretzky owns the two best goal-scoring seasons in NHL history, but none was more impressive than the unthinkable 92 goals he scored in the 1981-82 campaign. Sure, the game was different back then and goals were far more plentiful, but the Great One skated circles around the competition and set a record that will likely never be broken.
Teemu Selanne – 76 Goals (1992-93)
Team: Winnipeg Jets
Who can forget Temmu Selanne’s historic rookie season? The Finnish Flash scored a remarkable 76 goals in 1992-93, breaking Mike Bossy’s single-season rookie record.
Selanne also gave hockey fans a lasting image that year with one of the most memorable goal celebrations of all time:
Lanny McDonald – 66 Goals (1982-83)
Team: Calgary Flames
The greatest mustache in NHL history was also quite the capable goal scorer, as evidenced by Lanny McDonald’s 500 career tallies.
While most may expect to see Jarome Iginla at the top of Calgary’s single-season goals leaderboard, it is, in fact, McDonald’s 66 he scored in the 1982-83 season that stands as the club record.
Pavel Bure – 60 Goals (1992-93 & 1993-94)
Team: Vancouver Canucks
An electrifying combination of speed and skill, very few scored with as much flash as Russia’s Pavel Bure. Despite his career being cut short due to injuries, the Russian Rocket managed to score 50 or more goals five times, including back-to-back 60 goal campaigns during his legendary time in Vancouver.
Steve Shutt & Guy Lafleur – 60 Goals (1976-77, 1977-78)
Team: Montreal Canadiens
For all of the great goal-scorers in Montreal Canadiens’ history, both Steve Shutt and Guy Lafleur hold the franchise record for goals in a season with 60.
Shutt was the first to hit the mark in 1976-77, with Lafleur matching that total the following year. Both of those seasons resulted in a Stanley Cup, the first two of four straight for the Habs from 1976 to 1979.
Rick Vaive – 54 Goals (1981-82)
Team: Toronto Maple Leads
Yes, Matthews has moved ahead of him in the records books but let’s honor the first 50-goal scorer in franchise history before turning the page. Rick Vaive is rarely thought of when discussing all-time great Maple Leafs players – largely because the team wasn’t very good during his time there.
Nevertheless, Vaive’s 54 goals in 1981-82 were the first of three straight 50 goal campaigns. He may be lost in Matthews’s shadow, but long-time Leafs fans know just how underrated the now 62-year-old truly was.
Dany Heatley – 50 Goals (2005-06 & 2006-07)
Team: Ottawa Senators
Dany Heatley spent four years in Ottawa, tallying 50 goals in back-to-back seasons while helping lead the Sens to the franchise’s first and only Stanley Cup Final in the 2006-07 campaign.
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Edmonton Oilers vs. San Jose Sharks Odds, Lines, Picks & Predictions
The Oilers have found their form recently, stringing together four straight wins. Can the Sharks slow them down?
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With 10 games scheduled for Tuesday, it’s a busy day for NHL betting. The regular season is nearing its end, so there’s now a shift to Stanley Cup betting.
The Edmonton Oilers are sixth in the Western Conference and are trying to distance themselves from the playoff bubble teams fighting for those final Wild Card spots. Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks aren’t in a position to make the postseason but can play spoiler.
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Below are a few NHL betting picks and analysis for the matchup between the Oilers and Sharks.
Oilers vs. Sharks Odds, Moneyline, Over/Under
Moneyline: Oilers -190 | Sharks +155
Spread: Oilers -1.5 (+125) | Sharks +1.5 (-150)
Total: Over 6.5 (-120) | Under 6.5 (+100)
Oilers vs. Sharks Analysis
The Oilers have found their form recently, stringing together four straight wins.
Edmonton’s previous game was a 6-1 rout of the Anaheim Ducks which featured Leon Draisaitl’s 50th goal of the season as he tries to chase down Auston Matthews for the NHL lead. Connor McDavid also had a goal and two assists in the game.
McDavid leads the league in points with 40 goals and 65 assists, followed by Draisaitl who is second overall with 101 points.
Meanwhile, the Sharks are 13th in the West and have dropped three in a row.
They’re coming off a 5-4 loss to the Dallas Stars, where Logan Couture picked up his 22nd goal of the season. Timo Meier leads San Jose in scoring with 31 goals and 36 assists.
The Oilers are sixth in NHL scoring averaging 3.50 goals per game and the Sharks are 27th with 2.63. Both teams are relatively similar at keeping the puck out of the net, as Edmonton is 22nd in goals allowed against per game with 3.21, while San Jose is slightly better at 21st with 3.18.
Against the puck line, the Oilers are 33-37 and 18-17 on the road, while the Sharks are 35-33 and 16-19 at home.
A couple of trends to watch are the over is 11-0 in Edmonton’s last 11 games as a favorite and the over is 5-0 in San Jose’s past five when their opponent scored five or more goals in their previous game.
The Oilers are all about offense.
When their offense is buzzing, they’re winning and when it’s not, they’re not. It’s as simple as that and right now Edmonton’s offense is rolling with at least four goals in each of their past seven games.
At the other end of the ice, the Sharks aren’t playing for anything except their jobs. There is always the danger that Edmonton overlooks San Jose, but the Oilers should have a fair amount of desperation due to their mid-season struggles.
It looks as though Edmonton should handle the Sharks. Expect McDavid and Draisaitl to get on the scoresheet as well.
Oilers vs. Sharks Predictions
The Picks: Oilers moneyline (-190), Over 6.5 (-120)
NHL Odds at BetMGM
From the preseason through the Stanley Cup Playoffs, BetMGM has you covered for NHL betting throughout the year. Check out updated puck lines, futures, live sports betting odds, and more online sports betting opportunities at the online sportsbook.
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NHL Against the Spread Records: Updated Puck Line Records
Which teams have the best ATS records in NHL betting this season?
This content was produced in partnership with The Hockey News' sponsor, BetMGM.
NHL betting is heating up as the regular season winds down and teams prepare to chase the Stanley Cup.
Through the first five months of the season, several teams have been dominant against the spread while others have been horrendous. And all 32 teams have contributed to several NHL betting trends, including those for well-rested favorites against teams playing the second half of a back-to-back, and road favorites in the game after a blowout loss.
As you check out updated puck lines for the final regular-season games, here are the updated NHL ATS records and over-under records (through April 3, 2022):
NHL ATS Records for 2021-22
What is the Puck Line in NHL Betting?
Puck line is hockey’s version of the point spread you see in most sports, including football and baseball.
In NFL betting, for example, the spread is the number of points by which one team is favored and one team is the underdog. The New Orleans Saints might be a 4.5-point favorite against the Cleveland Browns, which means the spread is 4.5 points. The spread is accompanied by odds (aka the vig), which is most often -110 for each team.
In NHL betting, the Colorado Avalanche might be a 1.5-goal favorite against the Detroit Red Wings, which means the puck line is 1.5 goals. However, unlike football betting, the puck line is almost always constant, -1.5 for the favorite and +1.5 for the underdog, and the odds vary. The Blackhawks’ -1.5 puck line might have odds of +140, and the Red Wings’ +1.5 might have odds of -120.
You can view all updated NHL puck lines and more hockey betting odds at the online sportsbook.
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NHL Best Bets Today: Johnny Gaudreau Due for Letdown (Apr. 4)
Playoff races are heating up, with NHL playoff odds changing by the day, and there’s at least one must-see matchup on Monday’s slate.
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Playoff races are heating up, with NHL playoff odds changing by the day, and there’s at least one must-see matchup on Monday’s slate.
The Los Angeles Kings are chasing down the Calgary Flames for the top spot in the Pacific Division, hosting them for the last time this season.
Here are two player prop options with analysis and NHL betting trends.
Johnny Gaudreau – Under 0.5 Points (+185)
Flames winger Johnny Gaudreau is including himself in the Hart Trophy conversation.
The 28-year-old is fourth in league scoring, accumulating 92 points through 68 games, including 10 over his past five games. There’s a disconnect between his output and production, suggesting that he’s a regression candidate to end the season.
Across all strengths, Gaudreau has a 65.5% expected goals-for rating, which looks a lot smaller when we compare it to his actual rating of 73.9%. That shift relates to Gaudreau’s inflated output.
The forward has been on the ice for 130 goals this season, which is a substantial deviation from his projected total of 94.5. Consequently, his PDO is shifted to a team-high 1.060. Gaudreau is riding an unsustainable stretch and is due for a letdown.
This could start to slow down starting against the Kings on Monday night.
The Kings have tightened things up in their defending zone, limiting their opponents to nine or fewer high-danger chances at five-on-five in each of the past two outings. That coincides with diminished Flames metrics, as Calgary has attempted eight or fewer quality opportunities in two of their past three.
It’s not very often that Gaudreau is held off the scoresheet, but that’s what I am predicting for Monday.
Nikita Kucherov – Over 3.5 Shots (+125), Over 1.5 Points (+140)
Giants collide at the Amalie Arena Monday as the Leafs look to assert themselves as the second-best team in the Atlantic Division.
A victory gives the Maple Leafs an outside shot at catching the Florida Panthers for the top spot in the division; however, they will have to find a way to limit Nikita Kucherov, who’s coming into this one in fine form.
Kucherov is riding a four-game point streak into the contest, the last three of which have been multi-point efforts.
There’s a fairly reliable pattern worth noting in that trend, Kucherov’s ability to score at home. The Russian winger has multi-point efforts in nine of his 13 home games this season, totaling 20 of his 43 points and an average of 1.5 points per game.
Those stats are backed up by some pretty impressive underlying metrics. Kucherov drives possession on the ice, posting a team-best 60.2% Corsi rating across all strengths, creating an average of 6.2 high-danger and 14.4 scoring chances per game.
Kucherov has put the puck on net more frequently. The former Hart Trophy winner has attempted four or more shots in three of his past five, averaging 3.6 shots per game over his past 11.
Kucherov’s shots and points player props are right on his averages. Still, it’s worth taking a stake on over 1.5 points and 3.5 shots at plus-money.
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