Detroit Red Wings at Pittsburgh Penguins odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Detroit Red Wings at Pittsburgh Penguins odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Detroit Red Wings (38-32-8) take on the Pittsburgh Penguins (36-30-12) Thursday at PPG Paints Arena. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Wings vs. Penguins odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Red Wings suffered a crushing defeat to the Washington Capitals at home by a 2-1 score Tuesday night. The win catapulted the Caps over the Red Wings and the Penguins for the final Wild Card spot. Detroit and Pittsburgh are tied at 84 points – 1 point behind Washington. The Wings are just 4-4-1-1 in their last 10.

Once left for dead after selling at the trade deadline, the Pens have gone on a run. They’re 6-1-2-1 in the last 10 games and are on a 5-game point streak. They fell 3-2 in overtime to the Toronto Maple Leafs Monday, which snapped a 4-game win streak. In 5 April games, C Sidney Crosby has 5 goals, 2 assists and is shooting a bonkers 62.5% with 8 shots on goal.

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Red Wings at Penguins odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:31 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Red Wings +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Penguins -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Wings +1.5 (-210) | Penguins -1.5 (+170)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Red Wings at Penguins projected goalies

Alex Lyon (20-18-4, 2.96 GAA, .908 SV%, 2 SO) vs. Alex Nedeljkovic (16-6-7, 2.82 GAA, .907 SV%, 1 SO)

Lyon stopped 21 of 23 in the loss to the Caps Tuesday. Lyon has allowed 9 goals in his last 4 starts with a solid .933 SV%. He has 1 start against the Pens this year, and he allowed 5 goals on 37 shots in a 6-3 loss.

Nedeljkovic has been a catalyst for Pittsburgh’s run as he has taken the starter’s net from Tristan Jarry. Nedeljokvic is 4-0-1 in April with a 2.59 GAA and .910 SV%. He was between the pipes in the 3-2 OT loss against Toronto, stopping 20 of 23. Nedeljkovic faced his former team March 17 and stopped 25 of 28 in the 6-3 win over the Wings.

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Red Wings at Penguins picks and predictions

Prediction

Penguins 5, Red Wings 3

Moneyline

These teams have met twice this year, and each team won 6-3 on their home ice. You can take the Penguins -145, but I actually prefer the puck line here.

There is a prop bet I like as well. Crosby has fewer than 4 SOG in 5 straight games despite scoring 5 goals on 8 shots. He had 3 SOG in each game against the Red Wings. Take SIDNEY CROSBY UNDER 3.5 SHOTS (-165).

Puck line/Against the spread

The Pens are 6-2-2 in the last 10 against Detroit, and the last 5 Pens wins have been by multiple goals. In fact, 7 of the last 10 meetings ended with multi-goal finishes.

This game could end the other’s season with a regulation loss.

The Pens are 21-13-4 at home, and I’ll take the PENGUINS -1.5 (+170).

Over/Under

This total would be 6-0-1 in the last 7 meetings. The Wings are 4-6 O/U in their last 10, and the Pens are 5-5. There is a lot of push potential here, but this is still a cashable OVER 6 (-120).

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Pittsburgh Penguins at Toronto Maple Leafs odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Pittsburgh Penguins at Toronto Maple Leafs odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Pittsburgh Penguins (36-30-11) visit the Toronto Maple Leafs (44-23-9) Monday at Scotiabank Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Penguins vs. Maple Leafs odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Season series: Tied 1-1

The Penguins were sellers at the NHL trade deadline, but they have picked up points in 8 consecutive games, posting a 6-0-2 record since March 24, including 4 straight victories. Pittsburgh has scored 3 or more goals in each of those 8 games, averaging 4.3 goals per game (GPG). The Over has cashed in 4 of the past 5 outings.

The Maple Leafs doubled up the Montreal Canadiens 4-2 on the road Saturday. Toronto has won 4 of the past 5 outings, scoring a total of 19 goals in the span, averaging 3.8 GPG in the 5-game span. The Under is on a 3-1 run in the past 4 contests.

Toronto picked up a 7-0 win at home against Pittsburgh in the most recent meeting Dec. 16, hitting the Over. It was a rare Over result in this series, as the Under is still 5-2 in the past 7 meetings.

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Penguins 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 3:25 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Penguins +130 (bet $100 to win $130) | Maple Leafs -155 (bet $155 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Penguins +1.5 (-185) | Maple Leafs -1.5 (+150)
  • Over/Under: 6.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Penguins at Maple Leafs projected goalies

Alex Nedeljkovic (16-6-6, 2.82 GAA, .907 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Ilya Samsonov (22-6-7, 3.03 GAA, .893 SV%, 3 SO)

Nedeljkovic has made the past 8 starts for the Penguins, winning 6 times, with a pair of OTLs. He has allowed 3 or fewer goals in 6 of the past 7 meetings. The Ohio native has managed an impressive 4-0-0 record, 2.50 GAA and .917 SV% in 4 starts in April.

Nedeljkovic didn’t start in the Dec. 16 meeting in Toronto, but he appeared in relief, allowing 3 goals on 21 shots in the 7-0 loss to the Leafs.

Samsonov allowed 2 goals on 26 shots in a 4-2 win in Montreal Saturday. He has won 4 straight starts, although he has allowed 3 or more goals in 4 of his previous 6 outings.

Samsonov hasn’t faced the Penguins in 2 seasons with the Leafs. He went 2-1-0 with a 2.74 GAA and .927 SV% in 3 starts against Pittsburgh as a member of the Washington Capitals in the 2021-22 season.

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Penguins at Maple Leafs picks and predictions

Prediction

Maple Leafs 4, Penguins 2

Moneyline

The MAPLE LEAFS (-155) are a solid play as moderate favorites against the red-hot Penguins (+130).

Toronto clinched a playoff spot over the weekend, but this is a team with a lot to play for still. It is 5 points back of the Florida Panthers for 2nd place in the Atlantic Division and has 2 games in hand. It is also just 4 points clear of the Tampa Bay Lightning, so don’t expect the Leafs to take their foot off the gas despite clinching.

Puck line/Against the spread

The MAPLE LEAFS -1.5 (+150) are worth a look on the puck line, betting at least a half-unit.

In the past 3 games as a favorite, Toronto has cashed on the puck line, too, so if you like the Leafs, take them on the puck line. The Leafs are 4-1-0 in the past 5 games, and each of the 4 victories have been by 2 or more goals, with an average margin of victory of 2.8 GPG.

Over/Under

UNDER 6.5 (-115) is worth a look, but go lightly.

The total has gone low in 3 of the past 4 games for the Maple Leafs. Be careful, though, as the Penguins have cashed the Over in 4 of the past 5 games. Still, they have allowed just 17 goals on the past 7 outings.

And again, in this series, the Under has cashed in 5 of the past 7 outings, and the losing team has managed a total of just 11 goals in the past 10 meetings, or just 1.1 GPG.

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Pittsburgh Penguins at Washington Capitals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Pittsburgh Penguins at Washington Capitals odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Pittsburgh Penguins (34-30-11) and Washington Capitals (36-28-10) meet Thursday in a key battle for Eastern Conference Wild Card slots. Opening faceoff at Capital One Arena is slated for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Penguins vs. Capitals odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Pittsburgh is coming off a 6-3 triumph as a +151 underdog at the New Jersey Devils Tuesday — the Over (6.5) easily cashed. The Penguins found twine on 6 of 21 shots and have scored 11 goals over their last 2 games.

The Capitals also last played on Tuesday. They filed a 6-2 loss as -121 dogs at the Buffalo Sabres with the Over (6) hitting. Washington heads into Thursday’s tilt looking to snap a 3-game losing streak.

The Caps lead the season series 2-1-0.

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Penguins at Capitals odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 10:34 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline: Penguins -110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Capitals -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Penguins +1.5 (-275) | Capitals -1.5 (+220)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Penguins at Capitals projected goalies

Tristan Jarry (19-24-5, 2.90 GAA, .903 SV%) vs. Darcy Kuemper (13-13-3, 3.32 GAA, .888 SV%)

Jarry has been out since March 24 with an illness. The veteran netminder had a shaky March, winning just twice in 9 decisions (2-6-1), while logging a lackluster .870 SV%. He has faced the Caps 3 times this season, notching an .854 SV% (41 saves against 48 shots).

Kuemper stopped all 4 shots he faced Tuesday in a 14-minute relief stint in Tuesday’s 6-2 loss at Buffalo. The 33-year-old netminder has only appeared in 3 games since Feb. 27.

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Penguins at Capitals picks and predictions

Prediction

Penguins 4, Capitals 3

Moneyline

The Pens are 3-0-1 over their last 4 visits to Capital One Arena.

Pittsburgh is trying to climb out of a hole created by going 3-9-2 from Feb. 29-March 24. The Penguins have looked better of late, going 4-0-1 across their last 5.

Recent games have seen the Pens create solid chances in 5-on-5 play, but actual scoring in such situations has lagged behind.

TAKE PITTSBURGH (-110).

Puck line/Against the spread

PASS: Better leverage can be found on the ML.

Over/Under

The Over is 8-3 in Pittsburgh’s last 11 games and 5-1 in the Penguins’ last 6 games on road ice. The Over is also 8-3 in Washington’s last 11 games at home.

The netminders for both sides have been leaky of late, and the Penguins offense has some undervalue lean to it.

FanDuel Sportsbook has the best offering here: BACK OVER 5.5 (-122).

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Pittsburgh Penguins at New Jersey Devils odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Pittsburgh Penguins at New Jersey Devils odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Pittsburgh Penguins (32-30-11) make the 3rd stop of a 4-game road trip Tuesday against the New Jersey Devils (36-34-4) at Prudential Center. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET. Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Penguins vs. Devils odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

Season series: Devils lead 2-0

The Penguins posted a 5-2 road win against the New York Rangers as moderate +167 underdogs. The Pens have had a revival of sorts, winning 3 of the past 4 games, while scoring 3 or more goals in 5 in a row. Pittsburgh has scored 39 goals in the past 10 games, or 3.9 goals per game (GPG), cashing the Over at a 7-3 clip.

The Devils posted a 5-2 win at home against the Penguins March 19 in their most recent head-to-head meeting behind new acquisition G Jake Allen (36 saves against 38 shots). New Jersey cashed as a  slight -104 underdog and the Over (6.5) cashed. The Devils have won 7 in a row in the series, with 4 of the past 6 coming as a favorite. The Over is 3-1 in the past 4 meetings.

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Penguins at Devils odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 4:49 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Penguins +135 (bet $100 to win $135) | Devils -160 (bet $160 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Penguins +1.5 (-175) | Devils -1.5 (+145)
  • Over/Under: 6.5 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Penguins at Devils projected goalies

Tristan Jarry (19-24-5, 2.90 GAA, .903 SV%, 6 SO) vs. Jake Allen (10-15-3, 3.38 GAA, .900 SV%)

Jarry made a relief appearance Sunday in Colorado, playing 10:05 in the crease, while allowing a goal on 5 shots. He replaced the injured G Alex Nedeljkovic late in the 3rd period.

Allen topped the Pens in the most recent meeting in Newark, and he has allowed 3 or fewer goals in 6 of his 7 starts since coming over from the Montreal Canadiens at the NHL trade deadline. That includes a win with 2 goals allowed on 38 shots in a 5-2 win against the Pens March 19.

Allen also stopped 30 of the 33 shots he faced in a 3-2 OTL against the Pens in Pittsburgh Jan. 27 as a member of the Habs.

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Penguins at Devils picks and predictions

Prediction

Devils 5, Penguins 2

Moneyline

The DEVILS (-160) are a solid play as moderate favorites in this Metropolitan Division clash in Newark.

While the Penguins have been playing well lately, picking up points in 5 straight games and going 3-0-2 in the span, they’ve still dropped 7 in a row in this series. That trend cannot be discounted.

New Jersey has won 4 of the past 6 games, averaging 3.8 goals per game (GPG) during the stretch.

Puck line/Against the spread

The DEVILS -1.5 (+145) are worth a roll of the dice laying the goal and a half. In New Jersey’s past 7 wins since Feb. 27, it has won by 3 or more goals. So, if you like Jersey to win, you should like it to cover the puck line, too.

In the 7-game win streak in this series, New Jersey has won the past 4 meetings by 3 or more goals, too, while cashing on the puck line in 6 of the past 7 either as a favorite or an underdog.

Over/Under

OVER 6.5 (+100) is a strong play at this price level. The Devils are averaging 5.0 GPG in the past 4 games in this series, and New Jersey has piled up 32 goals in the past 7 meetings — a 4.6 GPG average. The Over has hit in 3 of the previous 4 in the series, too.

For the Pens, the Over has hit in the past 2 games, while going 7-3 across the past 10 outings. For the Devils, the Over has cashed in 3 of the past 4 outings.

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Pittsburgh Penguins at Edmonton Oilers odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Pittsburgh Penguins (27-23-8) take on the Edmonton Oilers (36-20-2) Sunday at Rogers Place. Puck drop is set for 9 p.m. ET (ESPN+/Hulu). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Penguins vs. Oilers odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Pens complete their Northwest/Canada trip following a 4-3 loss at the Calgary Flames Saturday. They beat the Vancouver Canucks to start the trip and lost to the Seattle Kraken afterwards. The Pens are 10 points out of a Wild Card berth and fading fast as the trade deadline looms.

The Oilers have won 3 in a row after a 3-game losing streak. They, too, played Saturday in a 2-1 victory in Seattle. C Leon Draisaitl scored his 30th goal Saturday. C Connor McDavid had an assist 1 game after snapping a 10-game goalless drought against the St. Louis Blues. He probably narrowly avoided being benched for that… not in this lifetime.

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Penguins at Oilers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:12 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Penguins +155 (bet $100 to win $155) | Oilers -190 (bet $190 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Penguins +1.5 (-150) | Oilers -1.5 (+125)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Penguins at Oilers projected goalies

Alex Nedeljkovic (9-4-4, 2.67 GAA, .915 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Calvin Pickard (7-3-0, 2.53 GAA, .905 SV%, 1 SO)

Nedeljkovic has been idle since allowing 5 to the New York Islanders Feb. 20 in a 5-4 loss. He had just 3 starts in February as the team rode starter Tristan Jarry hard trying to stay afloat. Nedeljkovic was 1-1-1 with a 3.02 GAA and .901 SV% in February.

Pickard last saw the ice in a 4-2 loss to the Minnesota Wild Feb. 23. He stopped 16 of 19 in the defeat. He won his other 2 starts in February, and he allowed 3 goals in each for a 3.02 GAA and .877 SV%.

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Penguins at Oilers picks and predictions

Prediction

Oilers 5, Penguins 3

Moneyline

The Pens started Jarry against Calgary, possibly thinking they had a better chance to beat the Flames over the Oilers. They dropped that game, and now their backup must enter the crucible that is Rogers Place.

Personally, I feel comfortable enough to take Oilers -190 here. But, let’s make a logical, more fruitful decision here. Take a simple SGP of OILERS ML + OVER 4.5 (-121) at a much better price. Two backup goalies are likely to be working their core muscles watching pucks fly behind them. The last 5 meetings have had 6+ goals as well.

Puck line/Against the spread

Edmonton has won 4 straight meetings by an average margin of 3.75 goals. The Pens are fading, and their spirits are likely down for the count after losing to Calgary.

You can take OILERS -1.5 (+125) here.

If you don’t want to depend on a backup tendy, I also like SIDNEY CROSBY OVER 3.5 SHOTS (+100). He has 4+ SOG in 4 straight as he tries to put the team on his back. He’ll also step up for the challenge against McDavid.

Over/Under

As mentioned, the last 5 meetings have hit 6+ goals. Of those, 4 of the 5 hit the 7+ we’ll need to hit the Over. The Pens are 5-5 O/U over the last 10, and Edmonton is 6-4.

With backup tendies in tow, take the OVER 6.5 (-105).

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Colorado Avalanche at Pittsburgh Penguins odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Colorado Avalanche (6-0-0) take on the Pittsburgh Penguins (2-4-0) Thursday at PPG Paints Arena. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+/Hulu). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Avalanche vs. Penguins odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Avs have stormed out of the gates, rolling over every opponent in their path. They took down the New York Islanders, 7-4 Tuesday, and froze over the Carolina Hurricanes 6-4 Saturday. RW Mikko Rantanen leads the team with 5 goals, 7 assists and 12 points.

The Pens have dropped 3 in a row after a 4-1 loss to the Dallas Stars Tuesday. They are 2-1 when they score 3 goals but have lost all 3 when they do not. D Erik Karlsson was a big-time offseason acquisition, and he has 1 goal and 3 assists in 6 games. He should eventually turn it on, but there appears to be some growing pains as he adapts to his new team.

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Avalanche at Penguins odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:34 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Avalanche -135 (bet $135 to win $100) | Penguins +115 (bet $100 to win $115)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Avalanche -1.5 (+180) | Penguins +1.5 (-225)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Avalanche at Penguins projected goalies

Alexandar Georgiev (6-0-0, 1.98 GAA, .930 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Tristan Jarry (1-3-0, 2.81 GAA, .892 SV%, 1 SO)

Georgiev has started and won every game thus far with Pavel Francouz out with a groin injury. There’s obviously a chance that Ivan Prosvetov makes his 1st start, and that would change some things, but Georgiev is expected to go. After allowing 4 goals in his first 4 games combined, Georgiev has allowed 4 in each of the last 2 games. The Pens beat him in his only meeting against them last year. He stopped 40 of 44 shots.

Jarry has allowed 4 goals in each of his last 2 starts as well. He shut out the Washington Capitals in the game before that. So he’s seeking some kind of rhythm. Jarry was great in his lone start against Colorado last season, beating them 5-2 with 28 saves on 30 shots.

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Avalanche at Penguins picks and predictions

Prediction

Avalanche 4, Penguins 2

Moneyline

The Pens have won 5 of the last 7 meetings against the Avs, but I just can’t bring myself to side with them with the way each team is playing. If Colorado brings in the backup tendy, all bets are off. However, if Georgiev goes, I’m taking the AVALANCHE -135 or puck line.

Puck line/Against the spread

The Avs are 5-1 on the puck line thus far and 2-1 on the road. Two of the last 3 meetings have been decided by more than a goal. The Pens don’t have a lot of speed, and Colorado has a ton of it. Personally, I would skip the ML and take the AVALANCHE -1.5 (+180) for the value.

Over/Under

I’m not a fan of this total unless Colorado puts Prosvetov between the pipes. I would go Over there. I do like the Over, but just not enough to spend -120 for 7 goals, which I don’t like doing in the 1st place. Two of the last 3 meetings have hit this number, but I’m going to PASS. If you want to place a live bet if the number comes down to 5.5, that’s the route I’d take.

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Pittsburgh Penguins at Detroit Red Wings odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Pittsburgh Penguins at Detroit Red Wings odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Pittsburgh Penguins (2-1-0) and Detroit Red Wings (2-1-0) face off Wednesday at Little Caesars Arena. Puck drop is 7:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Penguins vs. Red Wings odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Pens have been chillin’ since winning back-to-back games Friday and Saturday. They took down the Calgary Flames at home, 5-2, Saturday. RW Bryan Rust had 2 goals in the game, and he has 3 in as many games this year. Before that, the Pens shut out the Washington Capitals 4-0.

The Red Wings are flying high after a 4-0 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets Monday night. C Dylan Larkin picked up his 1st goal and point of the season, and G James Reimer stopped all 23 shots fired his way. Their other win was a 6-4 home win against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

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Penguins at Red Wings odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:59 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Penguins -125 (bet $125 to win $100) | Red Wings +105 (bet $100 to win $105)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Penguins -1.5 (+185) | Red Wings +1.5 (-225)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -125 | U: +105)

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Penguins at Red Wings projected goalies

Tristan Jarry (1-1-0, 1.53 GAA, .944 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Ville Husso (1-1-0, 3.56 GAA, .863 SV%)

Jarry’s last performance was a 19-save shutout against the Washington Capitals Friday night. He beat Detroit in his only matchup against them last year, stopping 19 of the 20 shots he faced. He’s 3-0-0 with a 1.34 GAA and .953 SV% against them lifetime.

Husso has been a little leaky to begin the season, allowing 7 goals on 51 shots in his 2 starts. He saw the Pens twice last season, and he allowed 9 goals on 40 shots. He’s 0-1-1 with a 4.58 GAA and .871 SV% in 3 career games against the Pens.

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Penguins at Red Wings picks and predictions

Prediction

Penguins 4, Red Wings 2

Moneyline

The Penguins are 7-1-2 in the last 10 games against Detroit. The last meeting was a Penguins 5-1 victory in Detroit last April. The Pens have the hotter goalie, and they’re the better team on paper. According to Pregame.com, 52% of the tickets are on Pittsburgh, but 61% of the cash is as well. It has caused their ML to shift a little Wednesday morning. Let’s roll with PENGUINS -125.

Puck line/Against the spread

Detroit is 3-0 on the puck line this year, but even if we wanted to bite, the -225 is far too sour of an apple. Instead, I want to spotlight Rust, who scored 2 goals last game and is feelin’ it. He’s at plus-odds to take 3 shots on goal, and he has done so in 2 of the 3 games thus far. Take BRYAN RUST OVER 2.5 SHOTS ON GOAL (+105).

Over/Under

The Over is 5-4-1 in the last 10 meetings, but it’s 4-1 in the last 5. My concern is Detroit scoring enough to tip the scales into the Over. Six of the last 10 games against Pittsburgh, they have scored 2 goals or fewer. With an Over 6.5, that means Pittsburgh may have to score 5+, and that’s a tall ask.

LEAN UNDER 6.5 (+105).

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

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Pittsburgh Penguins at Washington Capitals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Pittsburgh Penguins at Washington Capitals odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Pittsburgh Penguins (0-1) and Washington Capitals (0-0) face off Friday at Capital One Arena. Puck drop is 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+/Hulu). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Penguins vs. Capitals odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

It’s a matchup between the best 2 players of the last 20 years – Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin.

The Pens try to shake off a 4-2 loss at the hands of the Chicago Blackhawks in their season opener. They led 2-1 entering the 3rd, but the young Blackhawks stormed back with 3 goals. Crosby had a goal on 3 shots.

The Capitals open the new season with a chip on their shoulder after failing to make the postseason last year. “Ovi” also renews his chase for Wayne Gretzky’s career goals record at 894, and he’s 72 away.

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Penguins 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 9:52 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Penguins -120 (bet $120 to win $100) | Capitals +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Penguins -1.5 (+190) | Capitals +1.5 (-250)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Penguins at Capitals projected goalies

Tristan Jarry (0-1-0, 3.13 GAA, .914 SV%) vs. Darcy Kuemper (22-26-7, 2.87 GAA, .909 SV%, 5 SO last season)

Jarry stopped 31 of 34 shots in the season opener. The Blackhawks pelted him with 27 shots on goal in the 1st 2 periods, and he stopped 26 but came undone in the 3rd. He didn’t face the Caps last season and was 1-2-0-1 against them in 2021-22. He had a 3.96 GAA and .884 SV%.

Kuemper had his 3rd-worst GAA of his 12-year career last year, and he looks to get back on track. The Capitals were ravaged by injuries in front of him, and he still had a solid .909 SV%.  He was 1-2-0 with a 2.94 GAA and .913 SV% in 3 games against Pittsburgh last season.

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Penguins at Capitals picks and predictions

Prediction

Penguins 5, Capitals 4

Moneyline

The Pens are 5-3-2 in their last 10 meetings with the Capitals. Oddly enough, the Pens have come away with victories in 4 games in Washington during that stretch. Newly acquired D Erik Karlsson looked a little out of sync in his team debut, and I look for a better game from him in this one. I like the PENGUINS (-120) here.

Puck line/Against the spread

I’m not a fan of either side of the puck line here. I do like ALEX OVECHKIN OVER 3.5 SHOTS (-135). He gets up for playing against Crosby and had 4 shots on goal in 2 of 3 against them last year.

Over/Under

There have been a lot of Overs hitting in the opening week, and this number would have cashed in 6 of the last 10 meetings. Both goalies have had their issues against each team. According to Pregame.com, the public likes the Under here. And we don’t like to side with the public.

Take the OVER 6.5 (-110).

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

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Chicago Blackhawks at Pittsburgh Penguins odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Chicago Blackhawks at Pittsburgh Penguins odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Blackhawks and the Pittsburgh Penguins open the 2023-24 National Hockey League regular season Tuesday at PPG Paints Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (ESPN/ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Blackhawks vs. Penguins odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Blackhawks won the lottery after a dismal season, earning the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. Chicago picked Connor Bedard, who is expected to be a generational talent to lead the Blackhawks back to championship form.

The Penguins suffered one of the biggest upsets at home last April 11, as the Blackhawks won 5-2 as +452 underdogs in the Steel City as the Over (6.5) just came in. The road team won both meetings in 2022-23, with the Over hitting in both matchups.

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Blackhawks at Penguins odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:19 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Blackhawks +195 (bet $100 to win $195) | Penguins -250 (bet $250 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Blackhawks +1.5 (-130) | Penguins -1.5 (+110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Blackhawks at Penguins projected goalies

Petr Mrazek (10-22-3, 3.66 GAA, .894 SV% – 2022-23) vs. Tristan Jarry (24-13-7, 2.90 GAA, .909 SV% , 2 SO)

Mrazek turned aside 38 of the 40 shots he faced in the 5-2 upset victory in Pittsburgh on April 11. Prior to that, he last met the Penguins on March 19, 2019, as a member of the Carolina Hurricanes.

Jarry was on the short end of that stunning loss to the Blackhawks last April, allowing 3 goals on 25 shots in 57:32. He also lost his prior start against Chicago on Nov. 9, 2022, although he made 30 saves on 32 shots in a 3-2 shootout loss. His last win against Chicago was Oct. 16, 2021.

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Blackhawks at Penguins picks and predictions

Prediction

Blackhawks 4, Penguins 3

Moneyline

The BLACKHAWKS (+195) are live ‘dogs in the Steel City, worth playing lightly for a chance to double up as the Bedard era begins.

The Penguins (-250) would cost you 2 1/2 times your potential return, and that is just a little too much risk. Jake Guentzel (ankle) was able to practice Monday, but he is still at risk of missing Tuesday’s opener.

Puck line/Against the spread

The BLACKHAWKS +1.5 (-130) are not priced out of line, if you would like a little insurance, and just cannot take Chicago straight up.

Chicago has won 2 of the past 3 meetings in this series, both as an underdog, and the Blackhawks are an impressive 7-3 in the past 10 meetings, with 6 of those victories as a ‘dog. Feeling better about Chicago, now?

Over/Under

OVER 6.5 (-120) is worth playing lightly, but it should be a close shave. Still, Mrazek and Jarry can be very giving. And the Over cashed in both meetings last season, while going 3-1 in the past 4 meetings, and 5-2 in the past 7 in the series. Roll high, but be careful.

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

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Chicago Blackhawks at Pittsburgh Penguins odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Chicago Blackhawks at Pittsburgh Penguins odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Chicago Blackhawks (25-49-6) travel to meet the Pittsburgh Penguins (40-30-10) Tuesday. Puck drop from PPG Paints Arena is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Blackhawks vs. Penguins odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Blackhawks are in freefall, dropping the last 3 games and going 1-11 in the last 12 outings. Chicago fell at home 5-3 in the 1st regular-season meeting with Pittsburgh at United Center on Nov. 20.

The Penguins have 90 points, currently 1 point out of the final Wild-Card spot in the Eastern Conference with 2 games remaining in the regular season. The Pens have won 4 of the last 5 games at home, while going 18-6 in the last 24 outings against Western Conference foes.

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Blackhawks at Penguins odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:09 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Blackhawks +350 (bet $100 to win $350) | Penguins -450 (bet $450 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Blackhawks +2.5 (-120) | Penguins -2.5 (+100)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: +100 | U: -120)

Stream the NHL all season on ESPN+, with your team’s out-of-market games, exclusive games, originals and more. Get ESPN+ now!

Blackhawks at Penguins projected goalies

Petr Mrazek (9-22-3, 3.71 GAA, .892 SV%) vs. Tristan Jarry (24-12-6, 2.89 GAA, .910 SV%, 2 SO)

Mrazek coughed up 7 goals on 31 shots in a 7-3 setback against the Seattle Kraken last time out on Saturday. He did pick up a win in his prior start at Calgary last Tuesday, a rare win. Mrazek has just the 1 victory in the last 10 starts and 11 appearances since Feb. 25.

Jarry made 19 saves last time out in a 5-1 win Saturday on the road against the Detroit Red Wings, and he has victories in each of his last 2 starts. He is 2-2-0 with a 2.77 GAA and .908 SV% in 4 starts in April.

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Blackhawks at Penguins picks and predictions

Prediction

Penguins 5, Blackhawks 1

Moneyline

The Penguins (-450) will cost you 4 1/2 times your potential return, and that’s just way too expensive even though the Blackhawks (+350) have been horrifically bad lately.

PASS.

Puck line/Against the spread

The PENGUINS -2.5 (+100) are a decent play at even-money on the puck line.

Pittsburgh is playing for a playoff spot still, and it is likely to be playing with quite a bit of desperation against a bad team. This is an easy 2 points the Pens cannot afford to squander. Pittsburgh has won by 3 or more goals in each of the last 2 outings, posting an average margin of victory by 3.5 GPG.

Over/Under

The UNDER 6.5 (-120) is the play.

The Under is 6-2-2 in the last 10 meetings in Pittsburgh. The Under has cashed in 4 straight games for the Pens, too, while going 9-1 in the last 10 games against Central Division teams, and 5-1 in the last 6 contests against Western Conference opponents, too.

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

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

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