Category: NHL Picks and Predictions

Colorado Avalanche at St. Louis Blues Game 6 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Colorado Avalanche at St. Louis Blues Game 6 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Colorado Avalanche try again to eliminate the St. Louis Blues Friday in Game 6 of their Western Conference Semifinals playoff series. Colorado leads the series 3-2. Puck drop from Enterprise Center is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we look at the Avalanche vs. Blues Game 6 odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Avs were stunned in Game 5 at home as St. Louis stormed back from a 3-0 hole midway through the game to win 5-4 in overtime. Avs C Nathan MacKinnon had arguably the best playoff game of his career with 3 goals and 1 assist. He thought he iced it when he gave them a 4-3 lead, gliding coast to coast for a sick goal with under 3 minutes to go.

The Blues would not give in. C Robert Thomas scored his 2nd goal of the game (and of the playoffs) with just under 1 minute to go to tie it. C Tyler Bozak put back a rebound to win it in OT.

The Blues haven’t won a home game in the series, though. G Jordan Binnington was injured in Game 3, and they spent too much effort retaliating in Game 4. Colorado is not on shaky ground just yet, and its best player just went ablaze.

Avalanche at Blues odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:55 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Avalanche -175 (bet $175 to win $100) | Blues +140 (bet $100 to win $140)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Avalanche -1.5 (+130) | Blues +1.5  (-165)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -130 | U: +105)

Avalanche at Blues projected goalies

Darcy Kuemper (5-2, 2.50 GAA, .904 SV%) vs. Ville Husso (2-4, 3.78 GAA, .884 SV%)

Kuemper hasn’t been great this series, and he hasn’t had to be. He has allowed 3 goals in 2 of the last 3 games. Colorado won 1 of them. If he gives up 3 or 4 markers in this game, we’re likely going to Game 7.

Husso has been overmatched in the series, but he made some dazzling saves in the last game. He appeared to exit Game 5 with a lot more confidence than he entered. Husso has given up 4 goals in 5 straight games in the playoffs. He’s going to have to limit Colorado to 2 or 3 for the Blues to have a chance to extend the series.

[tipico]

Avalanche at Blues picks and predictions

Prediction

Avalanche 5, Blues 2

Money line

There won’t be a lot of value in picking this game unless you’re confident in a Blues win. They could win, but it would have to be a similar formula to Game 5 where they stunned Colorado emotionally.

Colorado is angry, and I picked them to win in 6 games before the series began — even with a healthy Binnington. The Avs move on to face the Edmonton Oilers. St. Louis held Colorado’s top players down early in the series, and the Avs found ways to win. I’m not a fan of the -175 money line, but I will LEAN AVALANCHE IN REGULATION (-115).

Against the spread

If this is a close game, the Blues are likely to win. There is a special boosted odds wager AVALANCHE TO SCORE FIRST AND WIN THE SERIES (+130). I’d go lightly on that before I touched either puck line.

Over/Under

The Over has cashed in the last 4 for Colorado on the road and its last 4 games as a road favorite. The Over is 9-3 in the last 12 for St. Louis as an underdog and 8-3 on 1 day of rest. The Over has cashed in 3 straight contests in the series. Go lightly here, because I really feel like Colorado has to keep St. Louis to 2 goals to advance, but LEAN OVER 6.5 (-130).

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Edmonton Oilers at Calgary Flames Game 5 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Edmonton Oilers at Calgary Flames Game 5 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames meet for Game 5 of their Western Conference Semifinals playoff series Thursday at Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary, Alberta. The Oilers lead the series 3-1. Puck drop is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we look at the Oilers vs. Flames Game 5 odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Oilers won both games at home to take a commanding 3-1 series lead, forcing their rivals to have to win 3 straight games to keep their season alive. Edmonton lost 9-6 in Game 1 but won Game 2 in Calgary by a 5-3 count.

The Flames allowed just 14 total goals to the Dallas Stars across 7 games in the first round, but they have been very giving in this series. Calgary has allowed at least 4 goals in each game, with a grand total of 20 goals yielded so far.

Oilers at Flames odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Oilers +125 (bet $100 to win $125) | Flames -155 (bet $155 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Oilers +1.5 (-180) | Flames -1.5 (+140)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -120 | U: -105)

Oilers at Flames projected goalies

Mike Smith (7-3-0, 2.60 GAA, .931 SV%, 2 SO – postseason) vs. Jacob Markstrom (5-6-0, 2.78 GAA, .906 SV%, 1 SO – postseason)

Smith had a little bit of a brain cramp late in Game 4, losing track of a puck on a clearing attempt on the penalty kill for the Flames. Instead, D Rasmus Andersson tied the game. Smith has actually been better than Markstrom in this series outside of that miscue.

Markstrom was a brick wall in the Dallas series, but he has been more like a chain link fence in this one as he has allowed 4 or more goals in every game.

[tipico]

Oilers at Flames picks and predictions

Prediction

Flames 5, Oilers 4

Money line

The FLAMES (-155) have their backs up against the wall, and I expect they’ll come out with some fire, pun totally intended. The home crowd should spur on the Flames, as they force this one back to Edmonton Saturday.

Against the spread

The OILERS +1.5 (-180) are a little on the expensive side, but this price isn’t too out of line if you don’t like Edmonton straight up and want a little insurance. Edmonton has covered the puck line in 3 of the 4 games to date.

Over/Under

OVER 6.5 (-120) is the lean in this Game 5.

The Under would normally be the play in an elimination game, especially between bitter rivals, but the Flames have shown no signs of slowing down the Oilers’ offense. If Calgary is to win, they will need to ramp up its scoring, and similar to Game 1 that’s exactly what they’ll do.

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Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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New York Rangers at Carolina Hurricanes Game 5 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s New York Rangers at Carolina Hurricanes Game 5 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The New York Rangers and Carolina Hurricanes meet for Game 5 of their Eastern Conference Semifinals playoff series Thursday at PNC Arena in Raleigh, N.C. Series is tied 2-2. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we look at the Rangers vs. Hurricanes Game 5 odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Rangers held serve at home, winning both Games 3 and 4 to tie the series. New York now heads to Raleigh looking to snap a 1-4 slide on the road in the postseason.

The Hurricanes limp home after 2 more failed tries on the road, slipping to 0-5 away from home in the playoffs. However, they’re 6-0 in 6 games at PNC Arena during this postseason. They’re the first NHL team since the 1962 Toronto Maple Leafs to see the home team win the first 11 games to start a postseason.

Rangers at Hurricanes odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Rangers +122 (bet $100 to win $122) | Hurricanes -150 (bet $150 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Rangers +1.5 (-220) | Hurricanes -1.5 (+165)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: +115 | U: -145)

Rangers at Hurricanes projected goalies

Igor Shesterkin (6-2-0, 2.77 GAA, .925 SV% – postseason) vs. Antti Raanta (5-4-0, 2.09 GAA, .931 SV%, 1 SO – postseason)

Shesterkin has shut down the Hurricanes in this entire series, really, and Carolina should feel fortunate to be tied 2-2. The Rangers goaltender has allowed just 5 total goals on 122 shots through the first 4 games, good for a .959 SV%.

Raanta was money in the first 3 games of this series, yielding just 3 goals on 81 shots. He allowed 4 goals on 28 shots in Game 4, but the goals allowed weren’t really his fault, and he made some spectacular saves, too.

[tipico]

Rangers at Hurricanes picks and predictions

Prediction

Rangers 3, Hurricanes 2

Money line

The RANGERS (+122) are worth a roll of the dice as the road underdogs. The Hurricanes have been playing with fire, and easily could have lost at home in Game 1. New York led until the final 3 minutes in the series opener before C Sebastian Aho scored to force overtime. Look for the Rangers to finally strike in Carolina’s barn.

Against the spread

The Rangers +1.5 (-220) will cost you more than two times your potential return if you want a little insurance. If you like the Rangers, just play them straight up instead.

PASS.

Over/Under

UNDER 5.5 (-145) is the play in Game 5.

The Under has connected in all of the first 4 games in this series, so what is going to change as the pressure ramps up?

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Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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St. Louis Blues at Colorado Avalanche Game 5 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Colorado Avalanche at St. Louis Blues Game 5 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The St. Louis Blues and Colorado Avalanche meet for Game 5 of Western Conference Semifinals Wednesday at Ball Arena in Denver. Colorado leads the series 3-1. Puck drop is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we look at the Blues vs. Avalanche Game 5 odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Blues nearly pulled off the upset in Game 1 before losing in overtime at Ball Arena and then picked up the road win in Game 2. If St. Louis wants to extend its season, it needs to win Wednesday, and then the next 2 games.

The Avalanche came alive in 2 road games in St. Louis, outscoring the Blues by an 11-5 margin to push the Blues to the brink of elimination. Colorado tries for its first trip to the Conference Finals since 2002.

Blues at Avalanche odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:31 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Blues +190 (bet $100 to win $190) | Avalanche -240 (bet $240 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Blues +1.5 (-122) | Avalanche -1.5 (-102)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Blues at Avalanche projected goalies

Ville Husso (1-4-0, 3.76 GAA, .884 SV%, 1 SO – postseason) vs. Darcy Kuemper (5-1-0, 2.14 GAA, .917 SV% – postseason)

Husso took over for the injured Jordan Binnington in Game 3, but was unable to stop Colorado from scoring an avalanche of goals. He coughed up 4 goals on 23 shots in relief in Game 3, and 5 more goals on 36 shots in Game 4.

Kuemper has allowed 3 or fewer goals in each of his 7 starts during the postseason. He allowed 3 goals on just 20 shots in Game 4, but the offense picked him up and provided more than enough support.

[tipico]

Blues at Avalanche picks and predictions

Prediction

Avalanche 4, Blues 3

Money line

The Avalanche (-240) will get this one done, sending the Blues (+190) to the golf course. However, you can’t risk nearly two and a half times your potential return, and this is going to be a close game. St. Louis certainly won’t get quietly into the night.

PASS.

Against the spread

The BLUES +1.5 (-122) are worth a small-unit play in this elimination game. St. Louis has the offensive weapons to make a run at it in Denver, but it will come up just short. It wouldn’t be surprising to see overtime decide this one, and if so, the Blues on the puck line would be a winner.

Over/Under

OVER 6.5 (-108) is also worth a small-unit play, but be careful. We might get off to a slow start, especially as the Blues have the nerves of an elimination game. St. Louis won’t want to make any mistakes, and Colorado won’t want to do anything silly to let the Blues hang around. However, as the game goes on, we’ll see the offense pick up late.

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Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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Colorado Avalanche at St. Louis Blues Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Colorado Avalanche at St. Louis Blues Game 4 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Colorado Avalanche and St. Louis Blues meet for Game 4 of Western Conference Semifinals Monday at Enterprise Center in St. Louis. Colorado leads the series 2-1. Puck drop is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we look at the Avalanche vs. Blues Game 4 odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Avalanche picked up a 5-2 road win in Game 3 to grab home-ice advantage back from the Blues after they dropped Game 2. It was costly, however, as the Avs lost D Samuel Girard to a season-ending sternum injury.

The Blues also suffered a costly injury in Game 3, as G Jordan Binnington was knocked out for the series due to a lower-body injury. G Ville Husso is back as the No. 1 goaltender, a spot he started in the first 3 games of this postseason.

Avalanche at Blues odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:10 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Avalanche -170 (bet $170 to win $100) | Blues +135 (bet $100 to win $135)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Avalanche -1.5 (+135) | Blues +1.5 (-175)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -122 | U: -102)

Avalanche at Blues projected goalies

Darcy Kuemper (4-1-0, 1.99 GAA, .926 SV% – postseason) vs. Ville Husso (1-3-0, 3.38 GAA, .891 SV%, 1 SO – postseason)

Kuemper allowed 2 goals on 31 shots in the Game 3 road win in St. Louis. He has yielded 3 or fewer goals in each of his 6 starts so far in these playoffs.

Husso allowed 4 goals on 23 shots in relief in Game 3, but that’s a tough spot coming on cold to play for an injured starter. He has allowed 4 or more goals in each of his last 3 playoff appearances since his shutout in Game 1 at the Minnesota Wild.

[tipico]

Avalanche at Blues picks and predictions

Prediction

Avalanche 3, Blues 2

Money line

The AVALANCHE (-170) are rather moderate favorites, but this is going to be a close game. The Blues do not lose much, if anything, with Husso back in there instead of Binnington.

However, look for the offensive stars of the Avs to shine bright, grabbing a road win and forcing the Blues to the brink of elimination with a narrow win.

Against the spread

The BLUES +1.5 (-175) are worth playing if you’d like a little insurance. The road team has covered the puck line in each of the 3 games in this series so far, but St. Louis is desperate and will play one of their best outings of the series.

Over/Under

UNDER 6.5 (-102) is the play here. We should see the Avalanche take fewer chances, not allowing the Blues opportunities to get back into the series, and St. Louis will also be very careful. Scoring chances should be at a premium in this one.

Watch: ESPN+ has become a must-have for hockey fans. Get access to more than 1,000 out-of-market NHL games, 75 weekly national games, and more all season. Sign up for ESPN+ now!

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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Florida Panthers at Tampa Bay Lightning Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Florida Panthers at Tampa Bay Lightning Game 4 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning meet for Game 4 of Eastern Conference Semifinals Monday at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Fla. Tampa Bay holds a 3-0 series lead. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we look at the Panthers vs. Lightning Game 4 odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Panthers might have secured the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference and won the Presidents’ Trophy with a franchise-best 122 points, but the Lightning don’t care. Florida has been held to just 3 total goals across 3 losses, and now faces the possibility of being swept.

The Lightning are the 2-time defending champs and have looked the part in the Semifinals. Tampa Bay has outscored Florida 11-3 in this series, and it is 1 win away from a return trip to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Panthers at Lightning odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:57 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Panthers +102 (bet $100 to win $102) | Lightning -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Panthers +1.5 (-250) | Lightning -1.5 (+180)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -105 | U: -120)

Panthers at Lightning projected goalies

Sergei Bobrovsky (4-5-0, 2.88 GAA, .906 SV% – postseason) vs. Andrei Vasilevskiy (7-3-0, 2.44 GAA, .922 SV% – postseason)

Bobrovsky has not been terrible in this series, but he has received next to no offensive help. Three goals of support in 3 games wouldn’t be enough for Patrick Roy or Martin Brodeur.

Vasilevskiy started the postseason with 3 losses in his first 5 starts but he has rattled off 5 straight wins since Game 6 of the Toronto Maple Leafs series. He is 3-0-0 with a 1.00 GAA and .971 SV% in three starts vs. Florida.

[tipico]

Panthers at Lightning picks and predictions

Prediction

Lightning 4, Panthers 2

Money line

The LIGHTNING (-125) are slight favorites in this potential series-clinching victory. The last win is usually the hardest one to get, and the Panthers are a prideful bunch. It’s not how Florida wanted its season to end and you can expect the Cats to play their best game of the series — it still won’t be enough.

Against the spread

The LIGHTNING -1.5 (+180) are going to take a punch from the Panthers, and this one will go down to the very end. However, expect Tampa to salt the game and the series away with a late empty-net goal, covering the puck line.

Over/Under

UNDER 6.5 (-120) is the lean here, mainly due to the shortcomings of the Florida offense so far in this series. The Panthers are averaging 1.0 GPG, and that has helped the Under go a perfect 3-for-3 so far.

Watch: ESPN+ has become a must-have for hockey fans. Get access to more than 1,000 out-of-market NHL games, 75 weekly national games, and more all season. Sign up for ESPN+ now!

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If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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Colorado Avalanche at St. Louis Blues Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Colorado Avalanche at St. Louis Blues Game 3 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Colorado Avalanche try to take back home-ice advantage against the St. Louis Blues Saturday in Game 3 of their Western Conference Semifinals playoff series. The series is tied 1-1. Puck drop from Enterprise Center is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we look at the Avalanche vs. Blues Game 3 odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

For as much as Colorado dominated the Blues in Game 1, St. Louis flipped the script and took it to the Avs in Game 2. LW David Perron had 2 goals, and G Jordan Binnington was a star again as he made 30 saves on 31 shots in a 4-1 victory.

St. Louis really tightened up its forecheck and didn’t allow a single odd-man rush in the game. The 31 shots on goal were a far cry from the 54 fired at Binner in the first game.

Something to watch, and he’s not on the injury report, but D Cale Makar wiped out hard with his right knee banging into the goal post midway through Game 2. He limped off and told his teammates he was OK coming off, but that’s something that could swell up and remain tender the rest of the series.

C Nathan MacKinnon has 2 assists in the series, but he has really been held in check by Blues C Ryan O’Reilly. Makar, MacKinnon and RW Mikko Rantanen combined for 96 goals in the regular season. They have none in this series. I’d be surprised if one of them didn’t break through in this one.

Avalanche at Blues odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:30 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Avalanche -175 (bet $175 to win $100) | Blues +140 (bet $100 to win $140)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Avalanche -1.5 (+133) | Blues +1.5 (-170)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -122 | U: -102)

Avalanche at Blues projected goalies

Darcy Kuemper (3-1, 1.98 GAA, .923 SV% – postseason) vs. Jordan Binnington (4-1, 1.75 GAA, .948 SV% – postseason)

Kuemper wasn’t terrible, but he has shown some holes in these 2 games. He has saved 51 of 56 for a .910 SV% in the series. He had a 3.40 GAA and an .870 SV% against St. Louis in the regular season, too. So goaltending is one area Colorado doesn’t have the advantage.

Binnington has been unreal. Even though he has played in about half of the games as the guys ahead of him, he is 4th in the playoffs with 4.6 goals saved above expected, according to MoneyPuck. The only goal he gave up in Game 2 came on the power play, and he really hasn’t let a soft one in yet this series.

[tipico]

Avalanche at Blues picks and predictions

Prediction

Blues 3, Avalanche 2

Money line

The Avs are huge favorites on the road here. No one will contest that Colorado doesn’t have the most high-end talent, but St. Louis has talent across 4 lines and they have Stanley Cup-winning experience.

The Blues will also have a rowdy Enterprise Center behind them. The Avalanche aren’t just divisional rivals — they are owned by the villainous Stan Kroenke, who moved the NFL’s Rams from St. Louis to Los Angeles in questionable fashion. The crowd will be fired up.

We said Game 2 would either be a close win by Colorado or St. Louis could steal it. The same holds true for Game 3. It’ll be a close win by St. Louis or the Avs could steal it. Considering how well Binnington has played, we’ll take the value and LEAN BLUES (+140).

Against the spread

Neither puck line is attractive here. If the Blues get beat, there’s no sense in paying -175 for a goal of insurance. Instead, if you’re feeling the improved puck play and the continued dominance between the pipes, go lightly on BLUES IN REGULATION (+205). St. Louis has been a bad overtime team all season so if it’s going to win, it’ll likely have to be in regulation anyway.

Over/Under

You’re living dangerously taking the Under with these two powerful offenses. However, both games have cashed Under tickets, and it has been 3 Unders in a row for St. Louis. Go lightly here, but until these goalies really start showing leaks, LEAN UNDER 6.5 (-102).

Watch: ESPN+ has become a must-have for hockey fans. Get access to more than 1,000 out-of-market NHL games, 75 weekly national games, and more all season. Sign up for ESPN+ now!

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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Edmonton Oilers at Calgary Flames Game 2 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Edmonton Oilers at Calgary Flames Game 2 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Edmonton Oilers face off with the Calgary Flames Friday in Game 2 of their Western Conference semifinal playoff series. Puck drop from Scotiabank Saddledome is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Calgary leads the best-of-7 series 1-0 after a wild 9-6 victory in Wednesday’s opener. Below, we look at the Oilers at Flames Game 2 odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

Raise your hand if you saw 15 goals being scored in Game 1. There should be plenty of rested deltoids because I don’t think anyone saw that onslaught coming.

Calgary ignited a 3-0 lead in the first and scored 3 in each frame. Edmonton put up 4 in the second period and still trailed 6-5 heading into the final period. Flames LW Matthew Tkachuk, who just scored his first goal of the playoffs in Game 7 against Dallas, erupted with a hat trick.

Edmonton attempted to stop the bleeding in the first by turning to G Mikko Koskinen, but he was drilled for 5 goals on 37 shots the rest of the way. Oilers C Connor McDavid had 1 goal and 3 assists, and C Leon Draisaitl had 1 goal and 2 assists in the 9-6 loss.

Oilers at Flames odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:22 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Oilers +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Flames -180 (bet $180 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Oilers +1.5 (-160) | Flames -1.5 (+125)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -122 | U: -102)

Oilers at Flames projected goalies

Mike Smith (4-3, 2.68 GAA, .930 SV% – postseason) vs. Jacob Markstrom (5-3, 2.08 GAA, .923 SV% – this postseason)

Smith lasted just over 6 minutes in Game 1, allowing 3 goals on 10 shots. The Flames scored 2 goals in the first 51 seconds, which was the fastest 2 goals to start an NHL playoff game in the league’s long history. Smith was one of the top goaltenders in the playoffs before this one, and this has “fluke” written all over it. Smith remains 2nd with 8.5 goals saved above expected in the playoffs, according to MoneyPuck.

Markstrom is kind of lucky his offense scored 9 times because he wasn’t particularly good, allowing 6 goals on 28 shots. He has now given up at least 2 goals in 3 straight games after allowing 1 or fewer in the first 4 of 5 playoff games. He’ll have to tighten it up to preserve home ice.

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Oilers at Flames picks and predictions

Prediction

Oilers 5, Flames 3

Money line

The Oilers got spanked in Game 1, but they still have another shot to steal home ice. They didn’t panic, and the offense still lit the lamp 6 times. That’s what I take more of from Game 1 because Calgary scored just 15 goals in 7 games against Dallas.

If the Oilers come out aggressive and take an early lead, I look for them to cruise home with a split. LEAN OILERS (+145).

Against the spread

You have a few options here. You can play it safe and take the chalky Oilers +1.5 (-160) or you can pass and just stick to the plus-money on the money line.

Or if you’re vibing with me that Edmonton steals this one, you could go big with the alternate line of  Oilers -1.5 (+290) for nearly triple your money. Edmonton won by at least 2 goals in all 4 of its wins this postseason.

Over/Under

The Over has hit in 4 of the last 5 between these two. It’s always possible that after such an offensive explosion that both teams refocus and tweak their forechecks to plug holes in the defense.

I feel like Edmonton is too talented offensively, and now desperate, to score 4 or 5 on its own. LEAN OVER 6.5 (-122) lightly.

There is also a special boosted odds option on Tipico for 8+ total goals scored (+200). This serves as somewhat of a hedge in case Calgary retains home ice.

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New York Rangers at Carolina Hurricanes Game 2 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s New York Rangers at Carolina Hurricanes Game 2 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The New York Rangers try again to steal home ice from the Carolina Hurricanes Friday in Game 2 of their best-of-7 Eastern Conference semifinal series. Carolina leads 1-0 after taking Wednesday’s opener 2-1 in overtime. Puck drop for Game 2 from PNC Arena is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we look at the Rangers vs. Hurricanes Game 2 odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

Things looked bleak for the ‘Canes late in Game 1 before C Sebastian Aho tied it at 1-all with just 2:23 to go in regulation. It wasn’t long before D Ian Cole sent the crowd home happy with the game-winner 3:12 into the extra frame. His shot from the point deflected off a Rangers player’s stick and redirected into the net.

Carolina started slow, while the Rangers were aggressive early outshooting the ‘Canes 23-14 in the first 2 periods. But Carolina found a way to get it done. It was a clean game as each side went 0-for-1 on the power play. Carolina tallied 40 hits to New York’s 31.

How will the Rangers respond knowing they had Game 1 in hand?

New York LWs Artemi Panarin and Chris Kreider were kept quiet with just 3 shots on goal and a -1 between them. They will need to be more involved for the Rangers to steal Game 2 – a tough task considering Carolina is 5-0 on home ice these playoffs.

Rangers at Hurricanes odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:56 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Rangers +140 (bet $100 to win $140) | Hurricanes -175 (bet $175 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Rangers +1.5 (-190) | Hurricanes -1.5 (+145)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: +100 | U: -125)

Rangers at Hurricanes projected goalies

Igor Shesterkin (4-3, 3.42 GAA, .911 SV% – this postseason) vs. Antti Raanta (4-2, 2.13 GAA, .933 SV% – this postseason)

Shesterkin had his best game in the playoffs since the 79-save, triple-overtime nightmare that was Game 1 in the first round against Pittsburgh. But the Rangers still lost this opener, and he really has struggled outside of these two games. You have to wonder where his confidence level is. Shesterkin was 0-2 with a 3.63 GAA and .883 SV% against Carolina in the regular season.

Raanta has now given up just 5 goals in 5 playoff home games for a ridiculous .962 SV%. He was vastly better at home during the season, too, with a 10-2-1 record, 2.06 GAA and .924 SV% vs. 5-3, 2.87 GAA and .900 SV% on the road. He didn’t face the Rangers in the regular season.

[tipico]

Rangers at Hurricanes picks and predictions

Prediction

Hurricanes 3, Rangers 2

Money line

There’s two ways to look at this. The Rangers came really close to stealing Game 1, and they can use that momentum to shift the tides in Game 2. The ‘Canes also mustered up enough guile to squeeze by after a slow start and could continue to roll.

With the quality of goaltending they’re getting, and how great they have been at home all season, we’re going with HURRICANES (-175) for a FULL UNIT.

Against the spread

I prefer the Rangers +1.5 (-190) here, but there’s no way we’re risking that much. Conversely, the ‘Canes haven’t been potent enough to trust on the puck line. So, we’ll PASS there.

I would go lightly on the HURRICANES IN REGULATION (-107) for a decent value. In their 4 previous home wins, Carolina outscored Boston 18-6 with no OT games.

Over/Under

PASS.

This one can go either way as Carolina put up 5 goals on Boston 3 times at home in the last series. The Over 5.5 (+100) presents some value at even money, and I would take that if I were forced to choose.

If anything, let the puck drop and see if someone scores early to get a chance to take an “in-game line” of Under 6.5.

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If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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St. Louis Blues at Colorado Avalanche Game 2 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s St. Louis Blues at Colorado Avalanche Game 2 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The St. Louis Blues try to rebound against the Colorado Avalanche Thursday in Game 2 of their Western Conference  Semifinals playoff series. Colorado leads 1-0. Puck drop from Ball Arena is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we look at the Blues vs. Avalanche Game 2 odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Blues were rolled over in Game 1 as they were not able to get out of their defensive zone for much of the game. The Avalanche triumphed 3-2 in overtime, but it really wasn’t that close.

Blues G Jordan Binnington had arguably the best game of his career, stopping 51 of 54 shots. The Avalanche had an insane 106 scoring chances with shots on goal, blocked shots and shots misfired. The Avs hit 5 posts, and for anyone that watched the game, it looked like it should have been a 6-1 final.

The Avs got goals from RW Valeri Nichushkin, D Samuel Girard and D Josh Manson – three guys that combined for 36 goals in the regular season. So they won without their stars really being factors. The Blues scored first and had the lead into the 2nd period, but the Avs really turned it into a track meet to take a 2-1 lead. Blues RW Jordan Kyrou put a power-play goal in with just over 3 minutes left to send it to OT. The Avs outshot the Blues 13-0 in overtime.

From the glass-half-full perspective, the Blues can’t play any worse, and they only lost by 1 goal. They will make adjustments and are likely to switch from 11 forwards and 7 defensemen to 12 forwards and 6 defensemen. Coach Craig Berube said they need to be better on the forecheck, and this team usually responds after bad losses. Is it enough to beat C Nathan MacKinnon and D Cale Makar – 2 of the top-3 players left in the playoffs?

Blues at Avalanche odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at noon ET.

  • Money line: Blues +180 (bet $100 to win $180) | Avalanche -230 (bet $230 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Blues +1.5 (-125) | Avalanche -1.5 (+100)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -145 | U: +115)

Blues at Avalanche projected goalies

Jordan Binnington (3-1, 1.94 GAA, .944 SV%, postseason) vs. Darcy Kuemper (3-0, 1.67 GAA, .930 SV%, postseason)

Binnington has been unflappable in these playoffs, and it can’t be overestimated how good he was in Game 1. He made a save to his right that rebounded to a player on his left, and he immediately contorted his body to the left to make an insane glove save. He had no chance on all 3 goals, and the game-winner was shot from the point with 3 players screening him.

Kuemper really didn’t have to do much as the Blues got very little offensive zone pressure, and he didn’t even see a shot on goal in overtime. He made 23 saves on 25 shots – most of which weren’t very dangerous. Frankly, he looked beatable, and he could see 3 or 4 get past him if St. Louis can muster up any sort of sustained puck control.

[tipico]

Blues at Avalanche picks and predictions

Prediction

Avalanche 4, Blues 3

Money line

This is a game that can go a couple of ways: The Avs win another close one, or the Blues steal this game. I don’t have any confidence in Blues (+180) to put my money where my fingers are, but I also can’t risk more than two times my return on the Avalanche (-230). PASS.

Against the spread

This series is over in 5 games if we see the Avs come out and do 90% of what they did in Game 1. I think Colorado will win in 6 or 7, and St. Louis will have to make a statement here to even have a chance at lasting 6.

RW Vladimir Tarasenko was completely absent in Game 1, and he’ll be hungry. They’ll empty the tank, but Colorado is too strong to fade completely. LEAN BLUES +1.5 (-125) as this is a good price for the Blues to keep it close or somehow sneak out a win.

Over/Under

The Over is 13-3-1 in the Blues’ last 17 road games and it’s 6-2 in the Blues’ last 8 playoff games as underdogs. The Over hit in 6 straight games between these two sides before the Under hit in Game 1. Go lightly because of the juice, but LEAN OVER 6.5 (-145).

Watch: ESPN+ has become a must-have for hockey fans. Get access to more than 1,000 out-of-market NHL games, 75 weekly national games, and more all season. Sign up for ESPN+ now!

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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