Tag: Calgary Flames betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets

Colorado Avalanche at Calgary Flames odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Colorado Avalanche at Calgary Flames odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Colorado Avalanche (1-0-0) and Calgary Flames (0-0-0) meet Thursday at Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary. Puck drop is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Avalanche vs. Flames odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Avalanche opened with a 5-2 thumping of the hapless Chicago Blackhawks Wednesday at Ball Arena, enjoying success on the night it raised the 2022 Stanley Cup Final champion banner. Artturi Lekhonen and Valeri Nichushkin each scored a pair of power-play goals.

The Flames look to take advantage of the Avs in the 2nd end of a back-to-back, using an old friend to tip the scales in their favor. Calgary made a huge splash, signing Cup champ Nazem Kadri to a lucrative contract in the offseason.

Calgary will also see the debut of Jonathan Huberdeau and MacKenzie Weegar, 2 key players acquired in a deal with the Florida Panthers for Matthew Tkachuk.

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Avalanche at Flames odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:41 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline: Avalanche +102 (bet $100 to win $102) | Flames -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Avalanche +1.5 (-240) | Flames -1.5 (+175)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -102 | U: -122)

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Avalanche at Flames projected goalies

Pavel Francouz (15-5-1, 2.55 GAA, .916 SV%, 2 SO in 2021-22) vs. Jacob Markstrom (37-15-9, 2.22 GAA, .922 SV%, 9 SO in 2021-22)

Francouz apparently lost the battle for the starting job to addition Alexandar Georgiev, although the holdover from last season’s team should see plenty of starts for the champs. He allowed just 1 G on 22 shots in a relief appearance last season against the Flames.

Markstrom was amazing at home last season, posting a 22-8-7 record, 2.17 GAA and .919 SV% with 5 SO. He faced the Avs just once last season, allowing only 2 G on 30 shots in a hard-luck loss where he received little support in a 2-1 loss.

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Avalanche at Flames picks and predictions

Prediction

Flames 4, Avalanche 3

Moneyline

The FLAMES (-125) made some bold offseason moves, as they try to  challenge the Avalanche (+102) and other teams for the top of the Western Conference.

Calgary can make a big statement right out of the gate, and it will do just that in this marquee matchup.

Puck line/Against the spread

Avalanche +1.5 (-240) won’t go quietly into the night, and this should be a seesaw affair. If you’re looking for a little insurance, especially since the Avs are using a backup backstop in the 2nd end of a back-to-back, this is a little too expensive.

AVOID.

Over/Under

The OVER 6.5 (-102) is worth playing lightly, although Francouz starting doesn’t mean that the Avs will fall off much. Colorado did hit the Over Wednesday night, lighting the lamp 5 times while allowing just 2 goals. We should see a similar amount of goals in this one.

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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.

[tipico]

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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Calgary Flames at Dallas Stars Game 6 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Calgary Flames at Dallas Stars Game 6 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Calgary Flames look to close out the Dallas Stars in Game 6 of their 1st-round Western Conference playoff series Friday. The Flames lead the series 3-2. Puck drop from American Airlines Center is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (TNT).  Below, we look at the Flames vs. Stars odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

Calgary exploded in the third period in Game 5, rallying from a 1-goal deficit, for a 3-1 victory. Calgary outshot Dallas 16-5 in the period and put the Stars on the brink of elimination. The Flames have scored 6 third-period goals in the last 2 games. After a 104-point regular season, LW Matthew Tkachuk has mostly been shut out in this series. He has no goals, 3 assists, 14 penalty minutes and just 9 shots on goal.

Stars dynamic LW Jason Robertson lit the lamp for the first time this series in Game 5. The 22-year-old, who led Dallas with 41 goals in the regular season, has mostly been a no-show vs. the Flames. The Stars will need him to have a good Game 6 to give them a chance.

Flames at Stars 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 3:39 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Flames -170 (bet $170 to win $100) | Stars +135 (bet $100 to win $135)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Flames -1.5 (+140) | Stars +1.5 (-180)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: +112 | U: -140)

Flames at Stars projected goalies

Jacob Markstrom (37-15-9, 2.22 GAA, .922 SV%, 9 SO – regular season) vs. Jake Oettinger (30-15-1, 2.53 GAA, .914 SV%, 1 SO – regular season)

Markstrom continued his stellar play between the pipes with 20 saves on 21 shots in Game 5. He has allowed 6 goals on 125 shots in the series for a 1.21 GAA and a .952 SV%. According to MoneyPuck.com, he is third with 4.3 goals saved above expected in the playoffs.

Markstrom has been great, and Oettinger has been nearly as stellar. The Stars netminder stopped 29 of 31 shots in Game 5. He has started to crack a bit as he allowed 5 goals in the last 2 games – where Markstrom allowed just 2. As far as analytics go, Oettinger is the second-best goalie in the playoffs with a whopping 6.6 goals saved above expected.

[tipico]

Flames at Stars picks and predictions

Prediction

Flames 3, Stars 2

Money line

We took a chance on Dallas’ money line last time out, and it didn’t pay off. However, I cashed out at a profit in the 2nd period with the Stars leading 1-0. It’s possible they hang in there and force a Game 7, but I don’t have a great feel for that with the way they have folded at the end of games.

The Stars seem cooked. Go lightly because it’s expensive, but LEAN FLAMES (-170).

Against the spread

Dallas led Game 5 for 2 periods and was within a goal in Game 4 for 48 minutes. Dallas +1.5 (-180) has a good chance to cash, but it’s too expensive.

PASS and let’s try to nail the O/U again.

Over/Under

The Under has cashed in 4 of 5 in this series, which has seen just 18 total goals. There is some hesitance on this wager because the Under line has dropped so much.

But let’s roll with the UNDER 5.5 (-140).

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Dallas Stars at Calgary Flames Game 5 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Dallas Stars at Calgary Flames Game 5 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Dallas Stars are even at 2-2 with the Calgary Flames as Game 5 of their 1st-round Western Conference playoff series shifts back to Calgary Wednesday. Puck drop from Scotiabank Saddledome is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (ESPN).  Below, we look at the Stars vs. Flames odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

Calgary looked better in Game 4 as they pelted Dallas for 54 shots in a 4-1 win. C Johnny Gaudreau awakened with his first goal of the series on a penalty shot and added an assist. He had just 2 points and 7 shots on goal in the first 3 games. C Matthew Tkachuk is still without a goal, so figure he’s due.

Monday’s 4-1 final is misleading. Calgary led 1-0 after 2 periods, went up 2-0 with 12:13 to go and took a 3-0 lead with 8:17 remaining. Dallas cut the deficit to 3-1 with a power-play goal with 4:57 left before Calgary iced it with an empty netter in the final minute.

Stars G Jake Oettinger continues to build his legacy. He finished with 50 saves in Game 4. He kept the Stars in it, but do they have enough offensively to steal another W north of the border?

Stars 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 3:31 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Stars +180 (bet $100 to win $180) | Flames -230 (bet $230 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Stars +1.5 (-140) | Flames -1.5 (+112)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: +105 | U: -130)

Stars at Flames projected goalies

Jake Oettinger (30-15-1, 2.53 GAA, .914 SV%, 1 SO – regular season) vs. Jacob Markstrom (37-15-9, 2.22 GAA, .922 SV%, 9 SO – regular season)

As mentioned, the second-year netminder Oettinger stopped 50 of 53 shots in Game 4. He has a 1.53 GAA and an absurd .960 SV%, saving 143 of 149 shots in the series. He stopped all 29 shots he saw the last time they were in Calgary (Thursday’s 2-0 victory in Game 2), but faced 41 and 53 shots, respectively, in the last 2 games.

Markstrom has been just as good with a 1.27 GAA and a .952 SV% in the series on 45 fewer shots. Markstrom has allowed 5 goals in the series, including 2 on the power play. He was a little better at home this season with a 22-8-7 record, a 2.17 GAA and a .919 SV% as opposed to 15-7-2, 2.32 GAA, .926 SV% on the road.

[tipico]

Stars at Flames picks and predictions

Prediction

Flames 3, Stars 2

Money line

This is a situation that I might hedge on. Both teams have scored 7 goals apiece in the series through 4 games. Both goalies have been phenomenal.

Everyone should expect the Flames to win this game, and we’re picking them to do so. But this series has been far too close to put +180 price on Dallas. I might throw a few dollars on Dallas (+180), but hedge it with puck line and/or O/U wagers.

It’s definitely a PASS on Calgary (-230).

Against the spread

As mentioned, Dallas was within a goal in Game 4 for 48 minutes. Calgary scored a PP goal and an empty netter to put it out of reach.

While the teams split the first 2 games in Calgary, the Stars outscored the Flames 2-1. I’ll throw a full unit on STARS +1.5 (-140) – and maybe more. Oettinger has been that good in net.

Over/Under

The Under hit in 3 of the 4 thus far, and the Flames needed 53 shots, a PP goal and an empty netter to score 4 goals. Each team has 7 goals in 4 games.

There’s not much to consider here – go UNDER 5.5 (-130).

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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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Calgary Flames at Dallas Stars Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Calgary Flames at Dallas Stars Game 4 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Calgary Flames (1-2) and Dallas Stars (2-1) face off Monday in Game 4 of their 1st-round Western Conference playoff series. Puck drop from American Airlines Center is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (TBS).  Below, we look at the Flames vs. Stars odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Flames have scored 3 goals in 3 games. Let that sink in. Calgary was 6th in the NHL with 3.5 goals per game during the regular season, and it even had a 2-1 lead in the second period of Game 3 before falling 4-2.

There have been 45 penalties and 124 penalty minutes combined in the 3 games. Calgary has gone 1-for-12 on the power play, which means it has 2 even-strength goals in the series. That won’t get it done.

Dallas was 0-for-10 on the power play in the series well into Game 3 before C Joe Pavelski ended the drought with his 2nd goal of the game and 1st on the power play in the 3rd period. No pun intended, but a star may have been born in this series as second-year G Jake Oettinger has been nothing short of awesome with a .969 SV%. Is that sustainable?

Flames at Stars 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 1:25 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Flames -160 (bet $160 to win $100) | Stars +130 (bet $100 to win $130)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Flames -1.5 (+165) | Stars +1.5 (-220)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: +105 | U: -130)

Flames at Stars projected goalies

Jacob Markstrom (37-15-9, 2.22 GAA, .922 SV%, 9 SO – regular season) vs. Jake Oettinger (30-15-1, 2.53 GAA, .914 SV%, 1 SO – regular season)

Markstrom was beaten for 3 goals on 31 shots in Game 3, but he still has a filthy 1.36 GAA and .942 SV% in the series. Those numbers aren’t indicative of a goalie that’s 1-2. He was 1-0-1 with a 3.33 GAA and .878 SV% against Dallas in the regular season.

The 23-year-old Oettinger has come of age in his 2nd season. He has a 1.01 GAA and .969 SV% in the series. Those probably aren’t sustainable as Calgary will score more than 1 goal per game the rest of the series. He was 0-2 with a 3.56 GAA and .908 SV% against Calgary during the regular season.

[tipico]

Flames at Stars picks and predictions

Prediction

Flames 4, Stars 2

Money line

Calgary’s offense has been abysmal, but they should have twice the amount of 5-on-5 goals than they do, according to MoneyPuck.com’s expected goals for metrics. Only Dallas’ percentage is worse among the playoff squads. Get your memes of the WWE’s Undertaker rising up out of his casket ready because I think the Flames ignite in Game 4.

Flames LW Matthew Tkachuk has more than twice the penalty minutes (12) than shots on goal (5). I have a hunch he lights the lamp tonight. It’s a little steep considering their struggles, but take the FLAMES (-160) to even it up.

Against the spread

I’m not a fan of either puck line because of the offensive futility. I do see a Flames multiple-goal win, but maybe if the odds were closer to +200 for the risk. PASS.

Over/Under

After the Under dominated in the first two games, the Over squeaked by in Game 3. There are a lot of trends pointing to the Under, but I think the power outage has dropped the O/U too low to go that way. It’ll be close again in Game 4, but I think an empty-netter gets it over the hump late. LEAN OVER 5.5 (+105).

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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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Calgary Flames at Dallas Stars Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Calgary Flames at Dallas Stars Game 3 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Calgary Flames (1-1) hit the road Saturday for their 1st-round Western Conference playoff series with the Dallas Stars (1-1). Puck drop at American Airlines Center is set for 9:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we look at the Flames vs. Stars odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

Calgary captured the series opener Tuesday with a tightly contested 1-0 victory in a physical affair. However, despite the tight scoreline, Dallas only mustered 16 shots on goal.

The Stars evened the series with their own shutout in Game 2, although they were outshot again (29-23). The Stars opened the scoring with a C Joe Pavelski marker just 7:47 into the first period and added an empty-net goal to seal the 2-0 victory.

Flames at Stars 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 1:43 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Flames -165 (bet $165 to win $100) | Stars +133 (bet $100 to win $133)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Flames -1.5 (+170) | Stars +1.5 (-230)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: +120 | U: -150)

Flames at Stars projected goalies

Jacob Markstrom (37-15-9, 2.22 GAA, .922 SV%, 9 SO – regular season) vs. Jake Oettinger (30-15-1, 2.53 GAA, .914 SV%, 1 SO – regular season)

Markstrom’s 9 shutouts led the NHL and he’s been lights out to start the postseason. He’s allowed just 1 goal on 38 shots through the first 2 games of the series and stopped 21 of 23 shots against the Stars April 21 in his penultimate start of the season, a 4-2 victory.

Oettinger posted 30 regular-season wins in his first season as the Stars starter, and he’s been solid through the first 2 games of this series with a shutout in Game 2 and just 1 goal allowed on 55 shots. He struggled in 2 starts against the Flames in the regular season with 7 goals allowed on 76 shots for a 3.56 GAA and .908 SV%.

[tipico]

Flames at Stars picks and predictions

Prediction

Dallas 3, Calgary 2

Money line

The Stars have been very sharp through the first 2 games and should be able to keep pace in their return home for Game 3. There’s some value in DALLAS (+133) to win on home ice.

Against the spread

The Stars and Flames have met 5 times between the regular season and Games 1 and 2 of this series. Three of those 5 meetings have been 1-goal games, and the other 2 games have been 2-goal margins with late empty-netters.

There’s very little value in the insurance on Dallas +1.5 (-230). Even if the favorited Flames pull off the victory, there’s far from any guarantee it’s going to be by 2 or more goals.

AVOID.

Over/Under

With a Vezina-quality season from Markstrom, and Oettinger playing lights out in the series, it’s hard to back the Over 5.5 (+120) Saturday. These two teams have been playing tight, defensive hockey and the UNDER 5.5 (-150) is the only play here.

However, tread lightly with the heavy juice on a total that could get pushed Over with a late empty-net goal.

PASS altogether if the line drops to an even 5.

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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.

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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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Calgary Flames at Nashville Predators odds, picks, and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Calgary Flames at Nashville Predators odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Calgary Flames (47-20-9) travel to meet the Nashville Predators (43-28-5) at Bridgestone Arena Tuesday. Puck drop is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (ESPN+ and Hulu). Below, we look at the Flames vs. Predators odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Flames posted a 5-2 victory in Chicago Monday night, and now face a the second end of a back-to-back set with their backup goaltender. This is the first of two meetings in the next week, both in Nashville.

The Predators were hammered 8-3 by the St. Louis Blues, but continue to cling to the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. Nashville won the first meeting in Calgary, Nov. 2, by a 3-2 score in overtime, as Juuse Saros bested Jacob Markstrom.

Flames at Predators odds, spread 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 7:35 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Flames -135 (bet $135 to win $100) | Predators +110 (bet $100 to win $110)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Flames -1.5 (+180) | Predators +1.5 (-250)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -102 | U: -122)

Flames at Predators projected goalies

Dan Vladar (11-5-1, 2.76 GAA, .905 SV%, 2 SO) vs. Juuse Saros (37-24-3, 2.58 GAA, .920 SV%, 4 SO)

Vladar is likely to get the nod after Markstrom went in Monday’s game. The Flames are well ahead in the Pacific Division, so there is no sense overworking Markstrom, and/or risking injury to the starter.

Saros has been money at home, going 24-13-0 with a 2.25 GAA and a pair of shutouts, and he topped the Flames in overtime in the first meeting in November at Calgary.

[tipico]

Flames at Predators odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Predators 5, Flames 3

Money line

The PREDATORS (+110) are worth playing at home as short ‘dogs. This team picked up the win, albeit earlier in the season, in Calgary in the first meeting. However, Nashville catches the Flames in a tough spot, as the Pacific Division leaders had to play in Chicago and then immediately travel to the Nashville. It’s a tough turnaround, especially against a Preds team desperate to get back on track and stay in the playoff hunt.

Against the spread

The Predators +1.5 (+250) is risky business, costing you two-and-a-half times your potential return if you want some insurance. Just play them straight up on home ice, as they look to take advantage of a tired Flames side.

PASS.

Over/Under

OVER 6.5 (-102) is a little high for my liking, but the Flames should have some tired legs on defense with the quick turnaround. And again, they won’t have their likely Vezina Trophy finalist netminder in between the pipes, either.

The Predators have had their issues lighting the lamp lately, going for just four total goals in a four-game stretch from April 9-14, but Nashville has come alive with seven goals in the past two games. Of course, it also allowed 11 total goals, too.

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).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Vegas Golden Knights at Calgary Flames odds, picks, and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Vegas Golden Knights at Calgary Flames odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Vegas Golden Knights (40-29-5) travel to meet the Calgary Flames (45-19-9) at Scotiabank Saddledome Thursday. Puck drop is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we look at the Golden Knights vs. Flames odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Golden Knights have posted a 6-1-1 record across the past eight outings, but Vegas remains on the outside of the Western Conference playoff picture, so it needs to keep winning.

The Flames have managed 99 points, sitting second in the Western Conference, but well behind the Colorado Avalanche. Calgary has won 18 of its past 25 games at home.

Golden Knights at Flames odds, spread 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 7:20 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Golden Knights +133 (bet $100 to win $133) | Flames -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Golden Knights +1.5 (-200) | Flames -1.5 (+150)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: +105 | U: -130)

Golden Knights at Flames projected goalies

Robin Lehner (23-16-2, 2.82 GAA, .907 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Jacob Markstrom (34-14-8, 2.19 GAA, .924 SV%, 9 SO)

Lehner allowed five goals on 27 shots last time out Tuesday in Vancouver, a 5-4 overtime loss. In four games since returning from nearly a month-long absence, Lehner is 2-1-1 with a 3.23 GAA and .888 SV%.

Markstrom allowed three goals on 15 shots last time out against the Seattle Kraken, getting pulled after two periods. He is still 3-1-0 with a 2.59 GAA and .902 SV% in five starts in April.

[tipico]

Golden Knights at Flames odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Flames 4, Golden Knights 2

Money line

The FLAMES (-165) are moderate favorites over the Golden Knights (+133), a team that desperately needs a win to stay in the hunt for a playoff spot.

Calgary has picked up 18 wins in the past 25 home dates, while going 16-7 in the past 23 as a home favorite. The Golden Knights have won just three of the previous 11 on the road, while going 0-5 in the past five as a road ‘dog.

Against the spread

The FLAMES -1.5 (+150) are worth playing on the puck line, as the Golden Knights dropped the past two as an underdog by a combined score of 7-0. They’re also 1-5 against the puck line in the past six as an underdog.

Over/Under

UNDER 6.5 (-130) is the lean in this Pacific Division battle.

The Under is 5-2-1 in the past eight as a road underdog for the Knights, while going 3-1-1 in the past five for the Flames. The Under is also 5-2 in the past seven against teams with a winning overall record.

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).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

St. Louis Blues at Calgary Flames odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Saturday’s St. Louis Blues at Calgary Flames odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The St. Louis Blues (37-20-10) are north of the border to face the Pacific-leading Calgary Flames (40-18-9) Tuesday at Scotiabank Saddledome. Puck drop is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we look at the Blues vs. Flames odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

This is a matchup of the fifth-best offense in hockey (St. Louis, 3.5 goals per game), and the second-best defense in hockey (Calgary, 2.4 goals against per game). The teams split their first two meetings this season with laughers at 7-1 and 5-1.

The Blues were lucky to pick up a point Friday at Edmonton as they tied it at 5 before losing in overtime despite trailing 4-1 in the first period. G Ville Husso was unbelievable, stopping 25 of 27 shots after he was thrust into action in the first period after G Jordan Binnington allowed 4 goals on 13 shots. C Jordan Kyrou (illness) has been out for the last two games and remains questionable. His return would provide a spark.

Calgary is on the tail end of trading two-game winning and losing streaks. They lost to the Los Angeles Kings 3-2 in a shootout Thursday.

Blues at Flames odds, spread 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 11:08 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Blues +200 (bet $100 to win $200) | Flames -250 (bet $250 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Blues +1.5 (-125) | Flames -1.5 (+100)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -105 | U: -120)

Blues at Flames projected goalies

Ville Husso (18-6-5, 2.40 GAA, .923 SV%, 2 SO) vs. Jacob Markstrom (31-13-8, 2.15 GAA, .925 SV%, 9 SO)

Husso has been the Blues’ MVP and they wouldn’t be in the playoff picture without him. It’s going to be tough to rebound for this peak matchup if they ask him to 24 hours after he was thrust into action at Edmonton. Husso stopped 28 of 29 shots in the 5-1 win in January, and he stopped all 13 shots he saw in relief of Binnington in the 7-1 loss before that.

Markstrom, who leads the league in shutouts, was the starter in both of the matchups this season. He stopped 43 of 49 shots across one great performance and one flat one. He’ll be the difference either way Saturday.

[tipico]

Blues at Flames odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Flames 4, Blues 3

Money line

Let’s start out by saying the Blues could absolutely steal Saturday’s game. They get down early in a lot of games but they have so much talent on offense that they can crawl back into it. However, I’m not confident enough to go on the money line here with a potentially tired goalie between the pipes. The Blues have also lost four in a row on no rest. PASS.

Against the spread

Let’s put that 7-1 Flames win in perspective. St. Louis didn’t show up for that game and Calgary scored all 7 of its goals in the first two frames. So we’re not going to put much stock in that offensive barrage. The Blues are 17-16 on the puck line on the road and can score with anyone. They just tend to make ridiculous decisions in the D-zone that lead to easy chances. They will fight, though, and that’s why we’re leaning BLUES +1.5 (-125).

Over/Under

The Over is 5-0 in the Blues’ last five road games and 6-1 in their last seven overall. This has an Over feel with a tired or struggling goalie for St. Louis and with a thunderous offense that already put up 5 goals on Markstrom earlier this year. Calgary is inconsistent, but they can drop 9 on you in a hurry. Take the OVER 6.5 (-105).

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).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Los Angeles Kings at Calgary Flames odds, picks, and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Los Angeles Kings at Calgary Flames odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Los Angeles Kings (36-23-10) continue a Western Canadian road swing versus the Calgary Flames (40-18-8) at Scotiabank Saddledome Thursday. Puck drop is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we look at the Kings vs. Flames odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.

The Kings were edged 4-3 in a shootout at the Edmonton Oilers Wednesday. Los Angeles has been outscored 10-4 in its last two games and is 3-3-2 across its last eight outings.

The Flames were nipped at home by the first-place Colorado Avalanche by a 2-1 score Tuesday. The defense and goaltending were still solid, and the Flames have yielded just 2.3 goals per game across their last 10 outings.

Kings at Flames odds, spread 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 8:10 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Kings +230 (bet $100 to win $230) | Flames -300 (bet $300 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Kings +1.5 (+100) | Flames -1.5 (-125)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: +112 | U: -140)

Kings at Flames projected goalies

Cal Petersen (18-11-1, 2.74 GAA, .900 SV%, 3 SO) vs. Jacob Markstrom (31-13-7, 2.16 GAA, .925 SV%, 9 SO)

Petersen allowed 6 goals to the Seattle Kraken Monday, a rare rough outing. He has allowed 2 or fewer goals in seven of his previous 10 starts. He allowed 3 goals on 32 shots in a 3-2 home loss to the Flames Dec. 2.

Markstrom yielded just 2 goals on 30 shots in a tough 2-1 loss against the Avalanche last time out. He is still 7-2-2 with a 2.28 GAA and .924 SV% with a shutout in March.

[tipico]

Kings at Flames odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Flames 5, Kings 2

Money line

The Flames (-300) will cost you nearly three times your potential return, and that’s way too expensive. You can’t bet like that, or you’re going to be in a deep hole before too long.

AVOID.

Against the spread

The FLAMES -1.5 (-125) are a much better value laying the goal and a half.

Calgary has won by 2 or more goals in each of its last seven victories, and L.A. just played Wednesday, so the Kings’ legs are sure to be tired and the defense could be a little on the lazy side.

Over/Under

OVER 6.5 (+112) is the lean, ever so slightly.

It’s been all about the Over lately for Los Angeles, going 5-0-1 in the past six games, while going 9-3 in the past 12 against winning teams.

For Calgary, the Over is 3-1-1 in the past five games overall, while going 3-1-1 in its last five as a favorite, too. Look for at least 7 total goals.

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).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]