Tag: NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs odds lines picks predictions best bets

Montreal Canadiens at Vegas Golden Knights Game 1 odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Monday’s Montreal Canadiens at Vegas Golden Knights Game 1 odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Montreal Canadiens and Vegas Golden Knights play Game 1 of their Stanley Cup Playoffs third-round series Monday. Puck drop is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET at T-Mobile Arena. Below, we analyze the Canadiens-Golden Knights odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The upstart Canadiens barely made it into the postseason, but they have made the most of their opportunity.

After going down 3-1 to the Toronto Maple Leafs they stormed back to win in seven games. Now they’ve won seven straight playoff contests after a second-round sweep of the Winnipeg Jets.

The Vegas Golden Knights were routed 7-1 in Game 1 in Denver, and the Colorado Avalanche held a 2-0 series lead last round. It was all Vegas after that as they rattled off four consecutive victories to get here.

Canadiens at Golden Knights: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated 8:29 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Canadiens +220 (bet $100 to win $220) | Golden Knights -280 (bet $280 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Canadiens +1.5 (-130) | Golden Knights -1.5 (+105)
  • Over/Under: 5.5 (O: +110 | U: -130)

Canadiens at Golden Knights: Projected starting goalies

Carey Price (12-7-5, 2.64 GAA, .901 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Marc-Andre Fleury (26-10-0, 1.98 GAA, .928 SV%, 6 SO). Stats from regular season.

It takes a red-hot goaltender to steal and/or dominate games if you want to go deep into the postseason. Price has been a combination of both, thus the arrival of the Habs into the third round. He locked down the Jets for just three total goals across the final three games of that series, including a 1-0 shutout in Game 2.

Fleury may not be on a seven-game win streak like Price, but he has won four in a row, holding the high-octane Colorado Avalanche to just eight goals during the win streak. The only game he lost in that series was a 3-2 overtime setback on the road in Game 2, as backup Robin Lehner allowed all 7 goals in the Game 1 loss. Fleury is on fire, too.

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Canadiens at Golden Knights: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Golden Knights 3, Canadiens 1

Money line (ML)

The Golden Knights (-280) will have “The Fortress” amped up, and it will be a shock to the system of the Canadiens (+220), who have played in front of just a smattering of fans in the hundreds a couple of times in these playoffs. However, you cannot risk nearly three times your potential return on VGK.

PASS.

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Against the spread (ATS)

The GOLDEN KNIGHTS -1.5 (+105) are a much better play at this price, as they have enough offense to get it done by at least two goals against the Canadiens red-hot netminder. It will be anything but easy and might require a late empty-net goal to cash.

Over/Under (O/U)

UNDER 5.5 (-130) is my favorite play on the board in the series opener. Price has been amazing lately, shutting down the Maple Leafs’ big-name forwards and a Jets squad that had averaged nearly 4 goals per game in the first round.

While I think the Golden Knights get to him for a few, these two netminders will definitely keep it Under.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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Colorado Avalanche at Vegas Golden Knights Game 6 odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Thursday’s Colorado Avalanche at Vegas Golden Knights Game 6 odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Colorado Avalanche and Vegas Golden Knights play Game 6 of their Stanley Cup Playoffs second-round series Thursday. Puck drop is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET at T-Mobile Arena. Below, we analyze the Avalanche-Golden Knights odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Avalanche fired out to a 2-0 series lead, but they have dropped three in a row and now face an elimination game on The Strip in Las Vegas. Colorado was outscored 8-3 in Games 3 and 4 at T-Mobile Arena.

The Golden Knights were dusted 7-1 in Game 1 but fought hard in an overtime loss in Game 2 in Denver. They have since won three straight, outscoring the Avalanche 11-5 and pushing the favorites to the brink.

Avalanche at Golden Knights: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:08 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Avalanche +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Golden Knights -135 (bet $135 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Avalanche +1.5 (-225) | Golden Knights -1.5 (+185)
  • Over/Under: 5.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

Avalanche at Golden Knights: Projected starting goalies

Philipp Grubauer (30-9-1, 1.95 GAA, .922 SV%, 7 SO) vs. Marc-Andre Fleury (26-10-0, 1.98 GAA, .928 SV%, 6 SO). Stats from regular season.

Grubauer has allowed three or more goals in each of the past three games in this series, the first time he has let in three or more goals in three consecutive games since a four-game stretch last season (Oct. 14-21, 2019).

Fleury was rested in Game 1 after a grueling first-round, seven-game series against the Minnesota Wild. After VGK was pounded 7-1, Fleury was plugged back in to start Game 2.

He has allowed a total of eight goals across the past four outings, going 3-1 with a 1.98 GAA and .914 SV% in the series.

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Avalanche at Golden Knights: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Avalanche 2, Golden Knights 1

Money line (ML)

The AVALANCHE (+110) are a value play as slight underdogs on the road.

This team was expected to not only win this series, but it was among the favorites to win the Stanley Cup.

I think Colorado plays its best game since Game 1 in this one, forcing a Game 7 back in Denver.

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Against the spread (ATS)

Colorado +1.5 (-225) is a little too expensive for my liking, but win or lose, I think this is going to be a one-goal game, perhaps going to an overtime or two.

Colorado won’t go quietly to the handshake line, and I think it forces a Game 7. I prefer the money line here, but can’t blame you if you want a little insurance with the +1.5 spread.

Over/Under (O/U)

UNDER 5.5 (-115) is the slam-dunk play on Thursday’s board. Both of these teams have high-octane offenses, but we have two Vezina Trophy finalists patrolling the creases.

We should see very few chances taken on both sides as Colorado is careful and calculated, trying to extend their season. Vegas will also play very safe, trying not to give the visitors any gifts.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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Tampa Bay Lightning at Carolina Hurricanes Game 2 odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Tuesday’s Tampa Bay Lightning at Carolina Hurricanes Game 2 odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Tampa Bay Lightning and Carolina Hurricanes play Game 2 of their Stanley Cup Playoffs second-round series Tuesday. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at PNC Arena. Below, we analyze the Lightning-Hurricanes odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Lightning struck for a 2-1 victory in the series opener Sunday afternoon. Andrei Vasilevskiy was the difference turning aside 37 of the 38 shots he faced, as he was just a little more crisp than rookie Alex Nedeljkovic in the crease for Carolina.

The Hurricanes were tied 1-1 early in the third period when Jake Bean struck on the power play for his first-career playoff goal. That’s the good news. The bad news is that Bean cannot be the team’s only scorer as the other weapons need to produce if the Hurricanes are to win.

Lightning at Hurricanes: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:40 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Lightning -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | Hurricanes -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Lightning +1.5 (-275) | Hurricanes -1.5 (+225)
  • Over/Under: 5.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Lightning at Hurricanes: Projected starting goalies

Andrei Vasilevskiy (31-10-1, 2.21 GAA, .925 SV%, 5 SO) vs. Alex Nedeljkovic (15-5-3, 1.90 GAA, .932 SV%, 3 SO)

Vasilevskiy allowed just the Bean power-play goal as he really stood on his head and was tremendous in the series opener. He is 2-0 in playoff series openers this season, and he won Game 2 in Florida last round, too.

Nedeljkovic and the Hurricanes lost for the first time in four playoff home games, although they were certainly not outplayed. Unfortunately for the rookie, he is now 2-3 in one-goal games in the playoffs so far.

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Lightning at Hurricanes: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Lightning 3, Hurricanes 2

Money line (ML)

The LIGHTNING (-110) have plenty of offense, but the goaltending situation and the experience are the biggest differences in this series. The Hurricanes (-110) are an uber-talented team that did big things in the regular season. This organization continues to trend up and will be a championship contender for years to come, but their time is not now.

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Against the spread (ATS)

The Lightning +1.5 (-275) will cost you almost three times your potential return, and that’s just not a recommended play.

AVOID and focus on the money line instead.

Over/Under (O/U)

UNDER 5.5 (-110) is the play in Game 2. Vasilevskiy shut down the Hurricanes offense, and Ned did a good job keeping the big dogs for the Lightning at bay. Don’t be surprised if this one is a 2-2 game heading to overtime. If that occurs, enjoy the great hockey, whomever wins, and enjoy the winning ticket, too.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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New York Islanders at Boston Bruins Game 2 odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Monday’s New York Islanders at Boston Bruins Game 2 odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The New York Islanders and Boston Bruins play Game 2 of their Stanley Cup Playoffs second-round series Monday. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at TD Garden. Below, we analyze the Islanders-Bruins odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Islanders were dropped 5-2 in the series opener, but it wasn’t as bad as the score might indicate. The game was tied 1-1 after 20 minutes and 2-2 after 40 minutes. The B’s outscored the Isles 3-0 in the final 20, however.

The Bruins registered five total goals with three of them coming off the stick of David Pastrnak. He registered his second-career NHL postseason hat trick, joining Phil Esposito, Johnny Bucyk and Cam Neely as the only players to record at least two playoff tricks in B’s franchise history.

Islanders at Bruins: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:35 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Islanders +170 (bet $100 to win $170) | Bruins -200 (bet $200 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Islanders +1.5 (-160) | Bruins -1.5 (+135)
  • Over/Under: 5 (O: -130 | U: +105)

Islanders at Bruins: Projected starting goalies

Ilya Sorokin (13-6-3, 2.17 GAA, .918 SV%, 3 SO) vs. Tuukka Rask (15-5-2, 2.28 GAA, .913 SV%, 2 SO)

Sorokin wasn’t terrible in Game 1, but he had no answers for Pasta. The rookie might be on a much shorter leash as Semyon Varlamov waits in the wings in the event head coach Barry Trotz wants to change course.

Rask is the steadying force in the crease for Boston. One of the two goals he allowed in Game 1 was on the power play to Anthony Beauvillier, which was not really his fault. He made 20 saves on 22 shots.

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Islanders at Bruins: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Bruins 4, Islanders 2

Money line (ML)

The Bruins (-200) will cost you two times your potential return, and that is just too expensive even if you love the home team. Look to the puck line instead.

AVOID.

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Against the spread (ATS)

The BRUINS -1.5 (+135) are a better play in this one, although it could be a lot closer than the series opener. The results should be the same, however. That is, this game will be close early on, and then the B’s will pull away late.

Over/Under (O/U)

OVER 5 (-130) is the play, albeit a little on the expensive side. Boston scored five goals on their own in Game 1, and they have the potential to hit the number again in Game 2. All of the head-to-head trends and recent team trends point to the Under, but sometimes you have to go with your gut.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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Montreal Canadiens at Toronto Maple Leafs Game 7 odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Monday’s Montreal Canadiens at Toronto Maple Leafs Game 7 odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs play Game 7 of their Stanley Cup Playoffs first-round series Monday. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET at Scotiabank Arena. Below, we analyze the Canadiens-Maple Leafs odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Canadiens totaled just four goals scored through the first four games and trailed 3-1 in the best-of-7 series. They registered a total of seven goals over the previous two outings, both overtime victories, squaring the series for this decisive Game 7.

The Maple Leafs are feeling the pressure as they look for their first playoff series win since 2004. One of the biggest reasons Toronto is in that old familiar place is the struggles of C Auston Matthews (one goal) and RW Mitch Marner (no goals).

Canadiens at Maple Leafs: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:18 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Canadiens +170 (bet $100 to win $170) | Maple Leafs -200 (bet $200 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Canadiens +1.5 (-155) | Maple Leafs -1.5 (+125)
  • Over/Under: 5.5 (O: +115| U: -140)

Canadiens at Maple Leafs: Projected starting goalies

Carey Price (12-7-5, 2.64 GAA, .901 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Jack Campbell (17-3-2, 2.15 GAA, .921 SV%, 2 SO)

Price started out with three losses across his first four outings of this series, but he has allowed a total of just one goal to Matthews/Marner, and the veteran has his team positioned to steal this series.

Campbell blanked the Habs in Game 4, and he appeared to be on his way to becoming the first goaltender to win a series for Toronto since Ed Belfour led the Leafs past the Ottawa Senators in seven games in 2004. That’s also the last time two Canadians teams played in a decisive Game 7.

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Canadiens at Maple Leafs: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Maple Leafs 3, Canadiens 1

Money line (ML)

The Maple Leafs (-200) will cost you two times your potential return, and there is no way you can do that. If anything, based on the perennial collapse of the Leafs, the Canadiens (+170) are worth playing.

AVOID.

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Against the spread (ATS)

The MAPLE LEAFS -1.5 (+125) can’t really do this again, can they? They have found new ways to lose on a regular basis over the years, and no one expected them to be in this position after four games. But here they are fighting for their playoff lives. The provincial government of Ontario struck down the potential of fans attending Game 7, so the Leafs will have to do it all on their own. Still, you have to think Matthews, Marner and company come alive.

Over/Under (O/U)

UNDER 5.5 (-140) is the lean here. The Habs have struggled offensively in this series as Campbell has certainly done his job. The Leafs haven’t lit the world afire, either. This has the potential to be a very low-scoring affair.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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Vegas Golden Knights at Colorado Avalanche Game 1 odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Sunday’s Vegas Golden Knights at Colorado Avalanche Game 1 odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Vegas Golden Knights and Colorado Avalanche play Game 1 of their Stanley Cup Playoffs second-round series Sunday. Puck drop is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET at Ball Arena. Below, we analyze the Golden Knights-Avalanche odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Golden Knights survived against the Minnesota Wild in seven games, and now focus on the Avalanche. These teams split their eight games in the regular season, with each team going 2-2 on the road.

The Avalanche swept the St. Louis Blues in Round 1 and have had a full week to rest. If you’re concerned about rust, Colorado is 4-1 across the past five when playing on three or more days of rest.

Golden Knights at Avalanche: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:37 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Golden Knights +155 (bet $100 to win $155) | Avalanche -190 (bet $190 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Golden Knights +1.5 (-165) | Avalanche -1.5 (+140)
  • Over/Under: 5.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Golden Knights at Avalanche: Projected starting goalies

Marc-Andre Fleury (26-10-0, 1.98 GAA, .928 SV%, 6 SO) vs. Philipp Grubauer (30-9-1, 1.95 GAA, .922 SV%, 7 SO)

Fleury struggled a bit in Games 5 and 6 against Minnesota, but he bounced back with a solid effort in Game 7 Friday. He went just 4-3-0 in seven regular-season starts against the Avs, but he had a stellar 2.14 GAA and .932 SV% with two shutouts.

Grubauer helped the Avs make quick work of the Blues. Now, he focuses on the Golden Knights at home. He was an amazing 19-4-1 with a 1.60 GAA and .935 SV% with six shutouts in 24 starts in Denver, while going 4-2-1 with a 1.86 GAA and .935 SV% in seven regular-season starts vs. Vegas.

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Golden Knights vs. Avalanche: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Avalanche 4, Golden Knights 2

Money line (ML)

The AVALANCHE (-190) are a little over my personal money line limit of -180, but sometimes you have to bend your own rules. I don’t like what I saw from the Golden Knights in the latter stages of their series against the Wild. If Fleury and the Knights play like that against the Avs in Game 1, they’ll get run out of the building.

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Against the spread (ATS)

COLORADO -1.5 (+140) is a solid value on the puck line. While the Golden Knights actually covered the puck line in their past three meetings with the Avs, I like a rested Colorado team to come out on fire here.

Over/Under (O/U)

OVER 5.5 (-110) is the play here despite the fact we have two stud backstops. We also have a pair of high-octane offenses, which should account for at least six total goals in the series opener. The Over is 6-0 in the past six for Vegas as an underdog in the playoffs, too, while going 18-7-1 in the past 26 playoff games for Colorado as a favorite.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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Tampa Bay Lightning at Carolina Hurricanes Game 1 odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Sunday’s Tampa Bay Lightning at Carolina Hurricanes Game 1 odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Tampa Bay Lightning and Carolina Hurricanes play Game 1 of their Stanley Cup Playoffs second-round series Sunday. Puck drop is scheduled for 5 p.m. ET at PNC Arena. Below, we analyze the Lightning-Hurricanes odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Lightning pushed past their in-state rivals, the Florida Panthers, in six games. Now, they travel to Raleigh, N.C., where they were 1-2-1 in four games at PNC Arena in the regular season.

The Hurricanes edged the Nashville Predators in six games, with the previous four outings going to overtime or double-overtime.

Lightning at Hurricanes: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:21 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Lightning -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | Hurricanes -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Lightning +1.5 (-275) | Hurricanes -1.5 (+220)
  • Over/Under: 6 (O: +100 | U: -120)

Lightning at Hurricanes: Projected starting goalies

Andrei Vasilevskiy (31-10-1, 2.21 GAA, .925 SV%, 5 SO) vs. Alex Nedeljkovic (15-5-3, 1.90 GAA, .932 SV%, 3 SO)

Vasilevskiy was great overall, but he can be beaten on the road. He was just 13-8-1 with a 2.63 GAA and .916 SV% in 22 road starts. He went 3-3-1 with a 2.14 GAA and .933 SV% with one shutout against the Hurricanes in seven regular-season starts.

Nedeljkovic posted four wins in six games in his first-career postseason series against the Predators. He went 7-1-2 with a 1.76 GAA and .934 SV% with two shutouts in 10 regular-season starts at PNC Arena. The rookie was also 2-1-0 with a 1.02 GAA and .962 SV% with one shutout against Tampa Bay.

Special NHL Betting Promotion!

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Lightning at Hurricanes: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Lightning 4, Hurricanes 2

Money line (ML)

The LIGHTNING (-110) are the defending champs with a Vezina-caliber backstop in the crease, while the Hurricanes have a rookie goaltender in net. We saw how that worked out for the New York Islanders in Game 1 of their series with the Boston Bruins as G Ilya Sorokin crumbled.

Still, Carolina is at home and it will have its raucous crowd’s support. So, it won’t be easy for Tampa. Still, the lean is with the champs.

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Against the spread (ATS)

The Lightning +1.5 (-275) are not worth playing here as it will cost you nearly three times your potential return.

AVOID and just look to the money line instead.

Over/Under (O/U)

The total line of 6 (Over +100 | Under -120) will likely come in right on the number, so I don’t like it. However, if there is a lean here, I’d go with the alternate line of OVER 5.5 (-125) as I can see plenty of goals being scored in this opening game as the teams feel each other out early.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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New York Islanders at Boston Bruins Game 1 odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Saturday’s New York Islanders at Boston Bruins Game 1 odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The New York Islanders and Boston Bruins play Game 1 of their Stanley Cup Playoffs second-round series Saturday. Puck drop is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET at TD Garden. Below, we analyze the Islanders-Bruins odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Islanders polished off the Pittsburgh Penguins in six games while the Bruins pushed past the Washington Capitals in five games in the first round.

New York won the first five meetings in the regular season before Boston won the final three meetings. Four of the eight games between these teams were decided by one goal, including the most recent battle May 10 in Boston, a 3-2 overtime win for the B’s.

Islanders at Bruins: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:30 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Islanders +155 (bet $100 to win $155) | Bruins -190 (bet $190 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Islanders +1.5 (-175) | Bruins -1.5 (+145)
  • Over/Under: 5 (O: -125 | U: +105)

Islanders at Bruins: Projected starting goalies

Ilya Sorokin (13-6-3, 2.17 GAA, .918 SV%, 3 SO) vs. Tuukka Rask (15-5-2, 2.28 GAA, .913 SV%, 2 SO)

Sorokin was entrusted to start in the first round after Semyon Varlamov missed Game 1 and then was shaky in his return. All Sorokin did was rattle off four wins in his four games to lead the mild upset of the Penguins.

The rookie was 0-1-1 against the B’s in two starts in the regular season, but he had a stellar 2.23 GAA and .921 SV%.

Rask posted a 2-2-0 record in four starts and five appearances against the Islanders this season posting a sparkling 1.86 GAA and .925 SV%.

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Islanders at Bruins: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Bruins 4, Islanders 2

Money line (ML)

The Bruins (-190) are just a smidge over my personal money line limit of -180, and I don’t love them enough in Game 1 to override that thinking. The Islanders (+155) looked rock-solid against the Penguins; so betting against them is a coin-flip right now.

AVOID.

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Against the spread (ATS)

The BRUINS -1.5 (+145) is a much better value, although I’d go lightly here, too. Four of the eight regular-season meetings were decided by one goal. However, the Islanders +1.5 (-175) are just 2-6 in their past eight trips to Beantown, and the home side has won seven of the past eight meetings.

Over/Under (O/U)

OVER 5 (-140) is the lean in this series opener. The goalies were strong in the first-round series for each side, but I still have a little bit of a problem trusting my money on a rookie backstop. The bright lights and intensity will be turned up a touch in the second round, and it will be interesting to see how Sorokin handles things against the likes of David Pastrnak, Patrice Bergeron, Brad Marchand and company. Over is the play here.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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Toronto Maple Leafs at Montreal Canadiens Game 6 odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Saturday’s Toronto Maple Leafs at Montreal Canadiens Game 4 odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens play Game 6 of their Stanley Cup Playoffs first-round series Saturday. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at Bell Centre. Below, we analyze the Maple Leafs-Canadiens odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Maple Leafs squandered a chance to put away the Canadiens in Game 5 of their division semifinals series, and now have to hit the road for Game 6. Toronto still has two more chances for its first postseason series win since 2004.

The Canadiens will be the first Canadian team to open the turnstiles to fans allowing a maximum of 2,500 rabid, and high-paying, fans to Bell Centre as the province of Quebec eases COVID restrictions for indoor gatherings.

Maple Leafs at Canadiens: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:10 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Maple Leafs -200 (bet $200 to win $100) | Canadiens +165 (bet $100 to win $165)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Maple Leafs -1.5 (+135) | Canadiens +1.5 (-165)
  • Over/Under: 5.5 (O: +100 | U: -120)

Maple Leafs at Canadiens: Projected starting goalies

Jack Campbell (17-3-2, 2.15 GAA, .921 SV%, 2 SO) vs. Carey Price (12-7-5, 2.64 GAA, .901 SV%, 1 SO)

Campbell finally showed some cracks in the dike in Game 5 allowing four goals on 30 shots as the Canadiens won it early in overtime in an elimination game. His last start at Bell Centre, however, was a shutout in Game 4.

Price turned aside 32 of 35 shots in Game 5 extending the season for the Habs at least one more game. Now he and his team will get a chance to play in front of a smattering of hometown fans for the first time this season.

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Maple Leafs at Canadiens: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Maple Leafs 4, Canadiens 3

Money line (ML)

The Maple Leafs (-200) are a little on the steep side, and I am not 100 percent confident they’ll be able to turn the tables and win on Montreal’s home ice. Add in the fact that there will be fans now, albeit a small amount, and things are trending a little in the favor of Les Habitants.

AVOID.

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Against the spread (ATS)

The CANADIENS +1.5 (-165) roll into their home barn with the confidence of an overtime road win in Game 5, and they will welcome some of their rabid fans through the gates. After getting blanked on home ice, their response Thursday night was outstanding. If they can get that early first goal to really put the Maple Leafs -1.5 (+135) on edge, the Habs will stay in this one, too.

Over/Under (O/U)

OVER 5.5 (+100) is the lean in Game 6 despite the fact the tension has been ratcheted up in this series. Normally as a series goes deeper, we see fewer scoring opportunities. Of course, in the two playoff game battles we had on Thursday the Over connected. I don’t think we get fire-wagon hockey here, but at least six goals seems like the best bet on the board.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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Minnesota Wild at Vegas Golden Knights Game 7 odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Friday’s Minnesota Wild at Vegas Golden Knights Game 7 odds and lines, with hockey picks, tips and predictions.

The Minnesota Wild and Vegas Golden Knights play Game 7 of their Stanley Cup Playoffs first-round series Friday. Puck drop is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET at T-Mobile Arena. Below, we analyze the Wild-Golden Knights odds and lines, with NHL picks and predictions.

The Wild were struggling mightily on offense in the first 4 games of this series leaving them down 3-1 heading into Game 5 in Las Vegas, while averaging just 1.0 goals per game.

A funny thing has happened along the way, as Minnesota has rattled off 2 straight wins to force a Game 7, notching 7 total goals to just 2 for Vegas.

The Golden Knights have had a power outage on offense. While they averaged 4.0 goals per game in their wins from Game 2 through 4, they’ve notched 2 total goals in their 3 losses, including being shutout in Game 6 in St. Paul.

Wild at Golden Knights: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated 8:28 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Wild +150 (bet $100 to win $150) | Golden Knights -180 (bet $180 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Wild +1.5 (-180) | Golden Knights -1.5 (+150)
  • Over/Under: 5 (O: -145 | U: +120)

Wild at Golden Knights: Projected starting goalies

Cam Talbot (19-8-5, 2.63 GAA, .915 SV%, 2 SO) vs. Marc-Andre Fleury (26-10-0, 1.98 GAA, .928 SV%, 6 SO)

Talbot has posted a pair of shutouts in the series, in Game 1 at T-Mobile Arena to open up action and again in Game 6 at Xcel Energy Center to stave off elimination and set up a decisive Game 7. He has been stealing games, which is exactly what the Wild have needed.

After giving up 3 goals in Game 5, Fleury had been exchanging donuts with Talbot until the third period in Game 6, when Ryan Hartman, Kevin Fiala, and Nick Bjugstad broke the tie with 3 on the future Hall of Famer. Just like that a 3-1 series lead has become a 3-3 series tie.

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Wild at Golden Knights: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Golden Knights 2, Wild 0

Money line (ML)

The GOLDEN KNIGHTS (-180) are a good pick on home ice at this price, despite that they have been struggling on offense, including a shutout loss in Game 6.

Fleury’s performance in the past 2 games might give bettors pause, as Talbot has been a bit better. However, whenever Fleury has looked down and out before he has bounced back admirably; expect more of the same.

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Against the spread (ATS)

The GOLDEN KNIGHTS -1.5 (+155) is worth a small-unit play at T-Mobile Arena in this one. Although Vegas isn’t likely to light the world afire against Talbot I really like Fleury on home ice.

Over/Under (O/U)

UNDER 5 (+120) is the best play on the board. Fleury and Talbot have put on a goaltender’s clinic in this series, with the Under hitting in 4 of the 6 games. We have had a total of just 25 goals overall in the series, or 4.2 goals per outing.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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