Tag: NHL Playoffs best bets

Edmonton Oilers at LA Kings Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Edmonton Oilers at LA Kings odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Edmonton Oilers take on the the LA Kings in Game 4 of their best-of-7 Western Conference, 1st-round series at Crypto.com Arena Sunday. The Oilers lead the series 2-1. Puck drop is set for 10:30 p.m. ET (TBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Oilers vs. Kings odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Oilers opened up a can on the Kings with a 6-1 victory in Game 3 in LaLa Land. LW Zach Hyman and C Leon Draisaitl each had 2 goals as Edmonton went 3-for-7 on the power play. The Oilers are 7-for-15 on the PP thus far.

RD Drew Doughty got the lone tally for the Kings in Game 3 — his 2nd of the series. With Edmonton nearly 50% on the PP, it’s imperative that the Kings stay out of the box or else they’re going home in 5.

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Oilers at Kings odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:08 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Oilers -145 (bet $145 to win $100) | Kings +120 (bet $100 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Oilers -1.5 (+165) | Kings +1.5 (-200)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Oilers at Kings projected goalies

Stuart Skinner (36-16-5, 2.62 GAA, .905 SV%, 2 SO) vs. Cam Talbot (27-20-6, 2.50 GAA, .913 SV%, 3 SO)

Skinner was great in Game 3, stopping 27 of 28 shots. He has a 3.31 GAA and .890 SV% after allowing 9 goals in the 1st 2 games. His metrics aren’t very good thus far as he’s 17th in the playoffs with -2.1 goals saved above expected, according to MoneyPuck.

Talbot has allowed 16 goals in 3 games for a 5.30 GAA and .861 SV%. Again, it’s not all his fault, considering Edmonton scored 7 of those on the power play. If things continue to go south, I’d look for a David Rittich sighting.

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Oilers at Kings picks and predictions

Prediction

Oilers 6, Kings 3

Moneyline

The Oilers are on a mission, and they know that they have to score in bunches in order to win. I look for them to keep the pedal to the metal. The ML is a little too juice-laden for me in a road playoff game.

If the Oilers are going to win, they’re probably going to have to score 4+ goals. So let’s SGP OILERS ML + OVER 3.5 OILERS GOALS (+125).

Puck line/Against the spread

There have been a few 1-goal games in this matchup, and I’m good with the less risk, similar reward in the aforementioned SGP.

PASS.

Over/Under

The Over has smashed in 3 straight games after the Under hit in Game 1. I see no reason for it to fizzle out here. I don’t like betting on 7 goals at minus odds.

You could SGP OILERS + OVER 4.5 (+100) to essentially get an Oilers win at even money.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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Vancouver Canucks at Nashville Predators Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Vancouver Canucks at Nashville Predators odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Vancouver Canucks take on the Nashville Predators in Game 4 of their best-of-7 Western Conference, 1st-round series at Bridgestone Arena Sunday. The Canucks lead the series 2-1. Puck drop is set for 5 p.m. ET (TBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Canucks vs. Predators odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Canucks stole Game 3 by a 2-1 final score Friday. The win was largely due to going 2-for-3 on the power play. G Casey DeSmith was awesome in place of Thatcher Demko (knee), who is out for the series. The former Penguin stopped 29 of 30 shots he saw. C J.T. Miller had a goal and an assist, and LD Quinn Hughes assisted on both goals.

The Preds couldn’t get anything going as they went 0-for-5 on the power play and gave up both goals on the PK. They outshot Vancouver 30-12 in the game. RW Luke Evangelista foiled the shutout with just over 3 minutes to go in the game, but they couldn’t sink the equalizer.

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Canucks at Predators odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:16 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Canucks +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Predators -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Canucks +1.5 (-250) | Predators -1.5 (+195)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Canucks at Predators projected goalies

Casey DeSmith (12-9-6, 2.89 GAA, .896 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Juuse Saros (35-24-5, 2.86 GAA, .906 SV%, 3 SO)

DeSmith is 1-1 with a 2.02 GAA and .911 SV% in the series. Game 3 was just his 3rd start in the playoffs in the 32-year-old’s career. The Canucks blocked 30 shots in front of him as he stopped 29 of 30 in Game 3.

Saros did what he could in Game 3, stopping 10 of 12 shots he faced. Again, the 2 goals were scored on the power play. Saros is 1-2 with a 2.03 GAA and .880 SV%. He has yet to face more than 20 shots in a game.

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Canucks at Predators picks and predictions

Prediction

Predators 4, Canucks 2

Moneyline

This series is likely going 7 games, and I’m still confident in Nashville outlasting the young Canucks. If you want some of that action and have a free bet, the Predators are +200 to win the series.

I look for them to work on some things with the extra man. LD Roman Josi said after Game 3 that they needed to move more on the PP. I look for that to be corrected, and the PREDATORS -125 is where I’m going.

Puck line/Against the spread

I’m not a fan of the spread either way here.

I like JUUSE SAROS UNDER 24.5 SAVES (-105). He has faced 12, 18 and 20 shots on goal in the series, and Nashville matched a franchise-record with 30 blocked shots in Game 2.

Over/Under

The Under has hit in 2 straight after the Over prevailed in Game 1. I look for things to open up a little more, and this 5.5 looks ripe. The Over is 7-3-0 in the last 10 meetings.

TAKE THE OVER 5.5 (-115).

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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Winnipeg Jets at Colorado Avalanche Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Winnipeg Jets at Colorado Avalanche odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Winnipeg Jets try to even things up against the Colorado Avalanche in Game 4 of their best-of-7 Western Conference, 1st-round series at Ball Arena on Sunday. The Avs lead the series 2-1. Puck drop is set for 2:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Jets vs. Avalanche odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Jets got smoked 5-2 in Game 2 Tuesday and 6-2 on Friday. They actually led Game 3 going into the 3rd 2-1 before Colorado exploded for 5 goals. LW Kyle Connor has been quiet since his 2 Game 1 goals with an assist and 4 total shots on goal in the past 2 games.

C Nathan MacKinnon had a goal and an assist while landing 8 shots on goal. He has a point in every series and 2+ points in 2 of the 3. The Avs appear to be finding their offensive stride at just the right time. The 3rd period of Game 3 proved they can still flip a game over on a dime.

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Jets at Avalanche odds

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

  • Moneyline (ML): Jets +140 (bet $100 to win $140) | Avalanche -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Jets +1.5 (-175) | Avalanche -1.5 (+145)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Jets at Avalanche projected goalies

Connor Hellebuyck (37-4-1, 2.35 GAA, .925 SV%, 2 SO) vs. Alexandar Georgiev (36-15-5, 2.57 GAA, .907 SV%, 2 SO)

Hellebuyck has not been good this entire series. He has allowed 6, 4 and 5 goals in the 3 games for a 5.05 GAA and .871 SV%. He has to tighten it up or else the Jets are going home.

Georgiev has turned his play around. After giving up 7 goals in Game 1, he stopped 50 of 54 shots in Games 2 and 3. As long as he can keep the Jets at 4 or under, the Avs have a really good shot.

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Jets at Avalanche picks and predictions

Prediction

Avalanche 5, Jets 3

Moneyline

I’m not usually keen on paying -165 for a ML, but it makes sense here. The Avs can score with anyone and have scored 5+ goals in each game of the series. With Georgiev finding his stride, they’ll back to being lethal.

Take the AVALANCHE -165.

Puck line/Against the spread

After just 2 SOG in Game 2, MacKinnon roared back with 8 shots in Game 3. It’s a little chalky, but I like NATHAN MACKINNON OVER 4.5 SHOTS (-145).

Over/Under

Every game has gone Over thus far, and I don’t see any reason to believe that it won’t continue. The Over is 6-1-3 in the last 10 meetings between the teams.

Take the OVER 6.5 (-120).

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Dallas Stars at Vegas Golden Knights Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Dallas Stars at Vegas Golden Knights odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Dallas Stars and Vegas Golden Knights meet in Game 3 of a best-of-7 Western Conference 1st-round series Saturday. Puck drop from T-Mobile Arena is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET (TBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Stars vs. Golden Knights odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Playoff series: Golden Knights lead 2-0

The Stars suffered a 4-3 defeat at home in the series opener in a game which could have gone either way. However, Dallas suffered a 3-1 loss in Game 2, as its offense really struggled to get anything going. The Stars now face the unenviable task of trying to win at least 1 game in the next 2 at T-Mobile Arena to extend the series and force things back to Dallas.

The Golden Knights cashed as underdogs in the first 2 games — +126 in Monday’s opener and +150 Wednesday. With Game 3 at home, Vegas is favored this time around. The defending Stanley Cup champions are just 2-2 in the past 4 games as favorites. The Under has cashed in 3 of the past 4 games for VGK after a 5-0-1 Over run in the final couple of weeks of the regular season.

In addition to winning both playoff games vs. Dallas, Vegas swept all 3 regular-season meetings, although 2 of the wins required overtime or the shootout.

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Stars at Golden Knights odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:03 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Stars -115 (bet $115 to win $100) | Golden Knights -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Stars -1.5 (+220) | Golden Knights +1.5 (-275)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Stars at Golden Knights projected goalies

Jake Oettinger (35-14-4, 2.72 GAA, .905 SV%, 3 SO in regular season) vs. Logan Thompson (25-14-5, 2.70 GAA, .908 SV%, 1 SO in regular season)

Oettinger allowed 2 goals on 25 shots in Game 2, but that was not good enough to secure the home win for his team. He is 0-2-0 with a 3.10 GAA and .850 SV% in 2 starts in this series.

Last season, G Adin Hill was the man down the stretch, helping the young organization to its 1st Stanley Cup title. In these first 2 games vs. Dallas, Thompson allowed 4 goals on 50 shots, good for a 2-0-0 record, 2.00 GAA and .920 SV%.

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Stars at Golden Knights picks and predictions

Prediction

Stars 3, Golden Knights 2

Moneyline

The STARS (-115) are favored in Game 3, which might raise some eyebrows given the fact Dallas is in a 2-0 series hole and this game is in Vegas. The line is also a bit surprising since Vegas (-105) swept the 3-game regular-season series vs. the Stars.

However, Dallas didn’t win 52 games and come up 1 point short of winning the President’s Trophy by mistake. Th Stars are one of the premier teams in the NHL. Game 3 will show if they’re still a legitimate contender or if they fold their tent.

I’m banking on DALLAS (-115) showing some tremendous fortitude against all odds.

Puck line/Against the spread

The Golden Knights +1.5 (-275) will cost nearly 3 times your potential return on home ice. That’s way too much risk for a little bit of insurance. If you like Vegas, which is up 2-0 in the series, you should like it straight up.

AVOID.

Over/Under

UNDER 6 (-120) is the lean, but go with a half-unit play at the most.

The Under cashed in Game 2, and Dallas figures to be quite sawed off about the predicament it is in. We should see a lot of physical play, and strong defense with goaltending.

VGK has cashed the Under in 3 of its past 4 games. The Under also has a slight 12-9 edge in the past 21 games at home for the Golden Knights.

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Boston Bruins at Toronto Maple Leafs Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Boston Bruins at Toronto Maple Leafs odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Boston Bruins visit the Toronto Maple Leafs for Game 4 of a best-of-7 Eastern Conference, 1st-round series Saturday. Puck drop from Scotiabank Arena is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (TBS/CBC). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Bruins vs. Maple Leafs odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Boston gained control of the series with a 4-2 win Wednesday to cash as a -102 road underdog. LW Brad Marchand led the way with 2 goals and an assist, while 6 difference Bruins players were credited with at least 1 assist.

After stealing Game 2 on the road, Toronto dropped a crucial Game 3 at home while failing to cash as a -108 favorite. LW Tyler Bertuzzi and LW Matthew Knies each scored, but it was not enough to curb a 3-goal 3rd period from the Bruins.

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Bruins at Maple Leafs odds

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

  • Moneyline (ML): Bruins -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | Maple Leafs -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Bruins +1.5 (-275) | Maple Leafs -1.5 (+220)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Bruins at Maple Leafs projected goalies

Jeremy Swayman (25-10-8, 2.53 GAA, .916 SV%, 3 SO) vs. Ilya Samsonov (23-7-8, 3.13 GAA, .890 SV%, 3 SO)

Swayman has been a top goaltender in the NHL this season. His GAA is good for 8th-best, while his SV% is tied for 5th-best. He can be attributed as part of the reason for Boston’s success, especially in this series in which he has allowed just 3 goals in 2 games.

Samsonov ranks 38th or below in both GAA and SV%, while his record is tied for 17th-best in the league. He has allowed 2 or more goals in each of the 3 games this series, totaling 9 overall. The Leafs will need Samsonov to perform well for a shot at a win Saturday.

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Bruins at Maple Leafs picks and predictions

Prediction

Bruins 3, Maple Leafs 2

Moneyline

BET BRUINS (-105).

Boston has scored 4 or more goals twice in this series, while Toronto has not scored more than 3 goals in any of the 3 games.

While the Maple Leafs have home-ice advantage, they are 0-3 in their last 3 home games and just 1-4 in their last 5 overall.

Expect the Bruins to take a commanding lead in the series with a win Saturday.

Puck line/Against the spread

PASS.

There is no value on the puck line in either direction.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 6 (-120).

The Bruins have scored 2 or fewer goals in 4 of their last 7 games and allowed 3 or fewer in each of their last 5 and 8 of their last 10.

The Leafs have scored 3 or fewer goals in each game this series and in 4 of their last 5.

Until the 3-goal period from the Bruins Wednesday, it was a tight-knit game, which should be expected again Saturday.

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

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

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The Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning meet in Game 4 of a best-of-7 Eastern Conference, 1st-round series Thursday. The Panthers lead the series 3-0. Puck drop from Amalie Arena is set for 5 p.m. ET (TBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Panthers vs. Lightning odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Panthers dominated the Bolts in Game 3 with a 5-3 win and took a commanding 3-0 lead. LW Matthew Tkachuk netted 2 goals to give him 3 in the series. Florida has now won 7 of the last 8 meetings and put Tampa’s winning window at risk of closing.

The Lightning are just 2 for 12 on the power play in the series. RW Nikita Kucherov was a little more noticeable with 4 shots in Game 3 after just 3 SOG in the first 2 games, but he has no goals and 3 assists in the series. He just hasn’t delivered what the team needs thus far. The Lightning still have a chance to make it interesting as they were 25-11-5 on home ice this season.

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Panthers at Lightning odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:45 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Panthers -125 (bet $125 to win $100) | Lightning +105 (bet $100 to win $105)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Panthers -1.5 (+195) | Lightning +1.5 (-250)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Panthers at Lightning projected goalies

Sergei Bobrovsky (36-17-4, 2.37 GAA, .915 SV%, 6 SO) vs. Andrei Vasilevskiy (30-20-2, 2.90 GAA, .900 SV%, 2 SO)

Bob has allowed 7 goals on 71 shots in the series to give him a 2.30 GAA and .901 SV%. The 3 goals that were netted in Game 3 were the most he has allowed in the last 5 games. The defense in front of him has been smothering, and they’ve kept the league-best power play (28.6%) to just 16.7%.

Vassy has regressed as the series has gone along, allowing 2, 3 and 4 goals, respectively. He stopped 26 of 30 shots in Game 3. He hasn’t looked the same all season, and that’s likely due to missing the early part due to back surgery. He’s still just 29 and has the ability to shut down a team at any point.

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Panthers at Lightning picks and predictions

Prediction

Panthers 4, Lightning 2

Moneyline

This series ended in Game 3 as the Panthers are just too much for this Lightning squad. Kucherov just hasn’t been the game-breaking player he was during the regular season.

Take the PANTHERS -125 to complete the sweep.

Puck line/Against the spread

I don’t like either side of the puck line here.

We’re targeting MATTHEW TKACHUK OVER 3.5 SHOTS (-105) here, as he has 4+ shots in all 3 games in the series and in 5 straight overall. He sniffs blood and will continue applying pressure.

Over/Under

We’ve had 3-2, 3-2 and 5-3 finishes in the series, and I’m pegging this one to push. If it comes down to 5.5, I plan to hit the Over. Until then, though, the books have this one mapped out well.

PASS.

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Carolina Hurricanes at New York Islanders Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Carolina Hurricanes at New York Islanders odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Carolina Hurricanes take on the New York Islanders in Game 4 of their best-of-7 Eastern Conference 1st-round series Saturday. Carolina holds a commanding 3-0 series lead. Puck drop from UBS Arena is scheduled for 2 p.m. ET (TBS). Below, we analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Hurricanes vs. Islanders odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

With a win Saturday afternoon, Carolina would become the 1st team this NHL postseason to advance to the 2nd round. Only 4 teams in NHL history have come back from down 3-0 in a playoff series, and it has not happened in 10 years (the LA Kings did it against the San Jose Sharks in the 1st round in 2014). The last time the Islanders accomplished the feat was against the Pittsburgh Penguins back in 1975 in the quarterfinals.

Carolina earned the 3-2 victory in Game 3 at UBS Arena as 39-year-old D Brent Burns, who was on that 2014 Sharks team that collapsed, scored the game’s opening goal. C Sebastian Aho, the team leader in goals during the regular season (36), recorded his 2nd goal of the series in the 3rd period.

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Hurricanes at Islanders odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:36 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Hurricanes -182 (bet $182 to win $100) | Islanders +150 (bet $150 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Hurricanes -1.5 (+150) | Islanders +1.5 (-182)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: +100 | U: -122)

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Hurricanes at Islanders projected goalies

Frederik Anderson (13-2-0, 1.84 GAA, .932 SV%, 3 SO in regular season) vs. Semyon Varlamov (14-8-4, 2.60 GAA, .918 SV%, 3 SO in regular season)

Anderson has started and won all 3 games this series. The Isles jumped out to a 3-0 lead in Game 2 on just 12 shots overall, but Carolina surged ahead in the 2nd and 3rd periods with 5 unanswered goals. The 34-year-old missed 50 games due to a blood-clotting issue during the regular season, and he surpassed Braden Holtby April 7 for most wins (294) by a goalie in 1st 500 games played.

Varlamov, who turns 36 Saturday, will get the start once again. Coach Patrick Roy turned to Ilya Sorokin briefly in Game 3, but he was pulled for Varlamov in the 2nd period after surrendering 3 goals on 14 shots. Varlamov, who was the goaltender and a Vezina finalist for Roy while they were together in Colorado in 2014, finished the contest, while Sorokin sadly stood in the tunnel and watched.

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Hurricanes at Islanders picks and predictions

Prediction

Hurricanes 3, Islanders 2

Moneyline

PASS.

This is too much juice to lay on Carolina (-182) alone, especially since it’s Varlamov’s birthday and this veteran Islanders group is fighting for the chance to play together 1 more time.

Puck line/Against the spread

BACK ISLANDERS +1.5 (-182) IN A PARLAY.

It’s also too juicy to back the Islanders by themselves on the puck line. However, if you believe the TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING +1.5 (-250 vs. Florida Panthers, 5 p.m. ET) will keep it within a goal as I do, pairing these 2 teams down 3-0 on the PL will pay out +116.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 5.5 (-122).

No team had a lower expected goals against during the regular season than Carolina (2.19), and it also saw the fewest shots on goal against (1668). The Islanders blocked the most shots during the regular season (1380), and with their season on the line, expect guys like D Noah Dobson and D Alexander Romanov to sacrifice their bodies in front of Varlamov.

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Edmonton Oilers at LA Kings Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Edmonton Oilers at LA Kings odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Edmonton Oilers and LA Kings meet in Game 3 of a best-of-7 Western Conference 1st-round series Friday. Puck drop from Crypto.com Arena is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET (TBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Oilers vs. Kings odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Playoff series: Tied 1-1

The Oilers picked up a 7-4 win in Game 1 as Zach Hyman had the hats flying and Connor McDavid picked up 5 assists. It was an offensive clinic, which also saw Evan Bouchard collect 4 helpers. That was more than enough offensive support for Stuart Skinner, who made 33 saves on 37 shots.

The Kings turned the tables in Game 2, however, stunning the home crowd with a 5-4 OT win. Adrian Kempe scored the first 2 goals of the game in 14:57 of ice time, and Anze Kopitar sent everybody home sad with the OT winner at just 2:07 of the extra session. Skinner was dinged for 5 goals on just 26 shots.

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Oilers at Kings odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:55 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Oilers -145 (bet $145 to win $100) | Kings +120 (bet $100 to win $120)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Oilers -1.5 (+170) | Kings +1.5 (-210)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Oilers at Kings projected goalies

Stuart Skinner (36-16-5, 2.62 GAA, .905 SV%, 2 SO in regular season) vs. Cam Talbot (27-20-6, 2.50 GAA, .913 SV%, 3 SO in regular season)

Skinner has allowed 9 goals on just 63 shots through the first 2 games in this series, going 1-1-0 with a 4.42 GAA and .857 SV%. He also allowed 4 goals on just 13 shots in a period of work in his final regular-season showing against the Colorado Avalanche April 18. He is going to need to get untracked in a hurry, or the Oilers could be facing an early exit.

Talbot has coughed up 10 goals on 75 shots, going 1-1-0 with a 4.96 GAA and .867 SV% in 2 games in this series. The goaltenders have struggled on both sides, which has been music to the ears of Over bettors in this series so far.

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Oilers at Kings picks and predictions

Prediction

Oilers 4, Kings 3

Moneyline

The OILERS (-145) are a solid play for the bounce-back game after getting tripped up in overtime in Game 2.

The Kings (+120) have a solid offense, but they don’t have McDavid. Expect the superstar to carry his Edmonton teammates on his back in a special Game 3 performance, snatching back home-ice advantage in the process.

Puck line/Against the spread

The Oilers -1.5 (+170) are a tempting play on the puck line, but it’s just a little bit too risky. Both games have been high-scoring free-for-alls, and after losing outright as a heavy favorite in Game 2, Edmonton is a risky enough play on the road just to win straight up.

AVOID.

Over/Under

OVER 6.5 (+100) is a strong play, especially at even money. We’ve seen a total of 20 combined goals in the first 2 games of the series, or 10.0 goals per game.

Even if we have much, much better defense in Game 3 with the shift of the series to Southern California, does that mean suddenly that the defenses are going to show up? That’s asking a lot, as it shouldn’t take much to get to at least 7 total goals in Game 3, and it could be in the bag by the end of 2 periods with the way these snipers are scoring.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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New York Rangers at Washington Capitals Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s New York Rangers at Washington Capitals odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The New York Rangers and Washington Capitals meet in Game 3 of a best-of-7 Eastern Conference 1st-round series Friday. Puck drop from Capital One Arena is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Rangers vs. Capitals odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Rangers control the series 2-0 after taking down the Capitals 4-3 Tuesday to cash as -281 home favorites. Four different NY players found the back of the net, while LW Alexis Lafreniere and D Erik Gustafsson each had 2 assists. The team has scored 4 goals in each of the 1st 2 games of the series.

Washington failed to cash as a +245 road underdog Tuesday. After allowing 2 goals in each of the 1st 2 periods, Washington’s comeback fell short. Three different Capitals players scored, while RW Tom Wilson had a goal and an assist. The series moves back to Washington Friday where the Capitals were 22-12-7 during the regular season.

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Rangers at Capitals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:44 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Rangers -175 (bet $175 to win $100) | Capitals +145 (bet $100 to win $145)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Rangers -1.5 (+150) | Capitals +1.5 (-185)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Rangers at Capitals projected goalies

Igor Shesterkin (36-17-2, 2.58 GAA, .913 SV%, 4 SO) vs. Charlie Lindgren (25-16-7, 2.67 GAA, .911 SV%, 6 SO)

Shesterkin has one of the best records in the NHL and is top 10 in shutouts as well. He has allowed just 4 goals total through the 1st 2 games against the Capitals and is a large reason for the team’s success this season. His 55 games started this season is the 2nd-most in his career.

Lindgren is tied for 13th-best in the NHL for his record and SV%, and he ranks 16th in GAA. His 6 shutouts are tied for the best in the league. He has not had a hot start to the series, allowing 4 goals in each of the 1st 2 games. He has allowed 3 of fewer goals in 7 of his last 9 starts.

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Rangers at Capitals picks and predictions

Prediction

Capitals 4, Rangers 3

Moneyline

BET CAPITALS (+145).

While the Capitals are down 2-0 in the series, they started to get a better read on New York in Game 2. They scored in each period, and after allowing 2 goals in each of the 1st 2 periods, they held them scoreless in the 3rd.

Returning to their home ice Friday, the Capitals are nearing a must-win game to keep their playoff hopes alive, and with their fans behind them, they will do just that.

Puck line/Against the spread

PASS.

The moneyline presents better value on Washington.

Over/Under

BET OVER 5.5 (-115).

The Rangers have scored 4 goals in each of their last 3 games and 3 or more in 7 of their last 9. They have allowed 3 or more goals in 6 of their last 10 games.

Washington started to find its groove on offense Tuesday and will speed up the pace Friday at home. It will not win by keeping the Rangers off the board, but by outscoring their high-powered offense.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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Winnipeg Jets at Colorado Avalanche Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Winnipeg Jets at Colorado Avalanche odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Winnipeg Jets and Colorado Avalanche meet Friday in Game 3 of a best-of-7 Western Conference 1st-round series. Puck drop from Ball Arena is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Jets vs. Avalanche odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Playoff series: Tied 1-1

The Jets posted a wild 7-6 victory in Game 1, as Kyle Connor and Adam Lowry each scored 2 goals. Connor Hellebuyck was good for 40 saves on 46 shots to outlast the Avalanche.

In Game 2, the Avs beat Hellebuyck for 4 goals on 31 shots, as Colorado leveled the series with a 5-2 victory. The Over (6.5) barely cashed, but is 2-0 in this series, with an average of 10.0 combined goals per game.

The Avalanche had goals from Miles Wood, Artturi Lehkonen, Zach Parise, Josh Manson and Valeri Nichushkin, and some of those guys are unlikely sources of offense. Nichushkin and Wood have 2 goals and 4 points in the series, while Lehkonen is good for 2 goals and 6 points in the 2 games.

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Jets at Avalanche odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:57 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Jets +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Avalanche -175 (bet $175 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Jets +1.5 (-175) | Avalanche -1.5 (+145)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Jets at Avalanche projected goalies

Connor Hellebuyck (37-19-4, 2.39 GAA, .921 SV%, 5 SO – regular season) vs. Alexander Georgiev (38-18-5, 3.02 GAA, .897 SV%, 2 SO – regular season)

Hellebuyck has some ugly numbers in this series, going 1-1-0 with a 5.04 GAA and .870% in the 2 games in Winnipeg. We expected this to be a high-scoring series, but this has been ridiculous. Still, it’s unlikely that we’ll see the backup Laurent Brossoit barring an injury.

Georgiev was tagged for 7 goals on just 23 shots in Game 1, but he was much better in Game 2, limiting Winnipeg to only 2 goals on 30 shots in the win. Still, he is 1-1-0 with an unseemly 4.63 GAA and .830 SV%, but there is little chance we’ll see the backup Justus Annunen, especially since he hasn’t been quite 100 percent healthy lately.

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Jets at Avalanche picks and predictions

Prediction

Avalanche 4, Jets 3

Moneyline

The AVALANCHE (-175) is worth playing, although this is a little pricey given the high-octane offenses on both sides. The 1st 2 games showed us that we’re going to have a lot of wide-open hockey with very little defense, and no lead is safe.

The Jets (+145) are a tempting play as moderate underdogs, but Georgiev, Cale Makar and the rest of the Avs tossed a blanket on Winnipeg defensively, making the proper adjustments after Game 1, so be careful there.

Puck line/Against the spread

The Jets +1.5 (-275) would set you back nearly 3 times your potential return, if you’re searching for a little insurance, and just can’t back Winnipeg straight up. That’s not a recommended betting strategy, as the reward is just so little with a ton of risk.

AVOID.

Over/Under

OVER 6.5 (-110) is a good play, and it has been an ace in this series so far. We’ll see if the change of venue makes a difference, as things shift to the Mile High City. It’s unlikely to mean a slow down in offense, though.

Colorado has cashed the Over in 8 of the past 9 games since April 4, scoring 3.89 goals per game (GPG) in those 9 contests, while allowing 4.5 GPG (36 goals) in the past 8 outings.

The Jets have cashed the Over in 5 in a row, too, going for 4 or more goals in 4 of those games. Go high, until the defenses actually show up.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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