Tag: Scotiabank Arena

Florida Panthers vs. New York Islanders odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Saturday’s Florida Panthers at New York Islanders NHL Playoffs Qualifier Round sports betting odds and lines, with NHL betting picks, tips and best bets.

The Florida Panthers and the New York Islanders tangle Saturday in Game 1 of their best-of-five NHL Playoffs Qualifier Series round at 4 p.m. ET at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, one of two hub locations for the NHL restart. We analyze the Panthers-Islanders sports betting odds and lines, while providing NHL betting tips and picks around this matchup.

Florida Panthers vs. New York Islanders: Projected starting goalies

Sergei Bobrovsky vs. Thomas Greiss

Bobrovsky, who made the start in Wednesday’s preseason game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, registered a 23-19-6 record, 3.23 goals-against average and .900 save percentage across 50 games (49 starts). It wasn’t exactly the type of production the team hoped they’d get from Bobrovsky after backing up a Brink’s truck to his house last offseason. However, he can wash all of those buyer’s remorse feelings away with a strong postseason run. It might be tough, however, as he was 0-2-0 in two starts against the Isles, although he had a respectable 2.05 GAA and .938 SV%.

Greiss was the backstop in a 2-1 exhibition win over the rival New York Rangers on Wednesday night, a good sign he’ll be manning the crease in Game 1 against the Cats. While “Bob” was pretty good against the Isles this season, Greiss was just a little better against the Panthers. Greiss posted a 2-0-0 record, 1.00 GAA and .972 save percentage in two regular-season starts, stopping 69 of the 71 pucks he faced.

The NHL is back! Get some action with a bet at BetMGM in NJ, IN, CO and WV. Bet now!

Panthers vs. Islanders: Odds, picks and betting tips

Odds courtesy of BetMGM; access them at USA TODAY Sports for a full list. Odds last updated Wednesday at 10:45 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Islanders 4, Panthers 2

Moneyline (ML)

The ISLANDERS (-121) have won four consecutive meetings with the Panthers (+100), so there is a lot of confidence for the boys in blue and orange. In addition, the favorite has cashed in five of the previous six meetings in this series. New York is trying to wash a bad taste out of its mouth after being swept by the Carolina Hurricanes in the postseason a year ago. Florida will be getting its feet wet, returning to the postseason since 2016. That invaluable experience last season for the Isles, albeit brief, will be the difference, as well as having Barry Trotz behind the bench.

New to sports betting? A $10 bet on the Islanders to win returns a profit of $8.30, while a $10 wager on the Panthers results in a profit of $10.

Puck Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

It might be a good idea to go lightly on ISLANDERS (-1.5, +225) on the puck line. Keep in mind, though, that while New York won each of the previous three regular-season meetings, one win came in a shootout, and the other in a 2-1 win in regulation on the Island. Either way, the moneyline cashed twice, and the puck line did not. So tread lightly.

Over/Under (O/U)

UNDER 5.5 (-110) is a slam-dunk play in this one. Expect the skaters to look like they’re pushing in sand early in the qualifiers after a long layoff, taking at least a game or two to knock off the rust. Plus, the first three meetings between these clubs each cashed the under. Look for more of the same.

Want some action in this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @JoeWilliamsVI 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.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=2059]

Carolina Hurricanes at Toronto Maple Leafs odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Saturday’s Carolina Hurricanes at Toronto Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL betting picks, tips and best bets.

The Carolina Hurricanes (34-22-4) and Toronto Maple Leafs (32-22-8) will lock horns at Scotiabank Arena at 7 p.m. ET Saturday. We analyze the Hurricanes-Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL matchup analysis, picks and tips.

Hurricanes at Maple Leafs: Projected starting goalies

James Reimer vs. Frederik Andersen

Reimer is expected to get the starting nod after Petr Mrazek started (and lost) at home against the New York Rangers in the front end of the back-to-back Friday. Optimus Reim has posted a 14-6-2 record, 2.67 goals against average and .914 save percentage through his 23 starts and one relief appearance. He was tuned up for four goals on just seven shots Dec. 23 in Toronto in the first meeting against his former team, an 8-6 loss.

Andersen is a solid 25-12-6 with a 2.91 GAA and .908 SV% across his 46 starts. While he allowed six goals in the Dec. 23 meeting with the ‘Canes, he stopped 34 shots en route to an 8-6 victory. He is coming off a shutout win against the Pittsburgh Penguins Thursday, a win which slapped the brakes on a personal three-game skid.

Place a sports bet on this hockey action or other games at BetMGM.

Hurricanes at Maple Leafs: Odds, picks and betting tips

Odds courtesy of BetMGM; access them at USA TODAY Sports for a full list. Odds last updated at 8:15 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Hurricanes 4, Maple Leafs 3

Moneyline (ML)

The HURRICANES (+135) have been able to bounce back after losses, and they’re in good shape with a 4-1 record in their past five in the second game of a back-to-back. The road team has also won seven of the past 10 meetings in this series. The Maple Leafs (-162), on the other hand, have posted a 2-5 mark in their past seven games against Eastern Conference opponents, while going 0-4 in their past four following a win.

Puck Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The Hurricanes (+1.5, -200) are not worth the insurance, as you will need to risk two times your return. The Maple Leafs (-1.5, +165) are a much more attractive play if you like the home side. I don’t, however. AVOID.

Over/Under (O/U)

The OVER 6.5 (+125) is worth a small-unit bet, hitting in five of the past seven meetings in this series. The Over is also 8-2 in Carolina’s past 10 overall, and 6-2 in its past eight against winning teams. Toronto has played to the Under in five of its past seven, but the Over is 14-3 in the past 17 against Metropolitan Division teams, while going 9-4 in the past 13 playing on a day of rest.

Want some action on this matchup? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @JoeWilliamsVI and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=2059]

Phoenix Suns at Toronto Raptors odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Friday’s Suns-Raptors sports betting odds, with NBA matchup analysis and picks.

The Toronto Raptors (40-15) and Phoenix Suns (22-33) return to action for the first time since the All-Star Break Friday night. The Raptors host the Suns, tipping off Friday night at ScotiaBank Arena at 7:30 p.m. ET.

We analyze the Suns-Raptors odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

Place a legal sports bet on this NBA action or other games at BetMGM.

Suns at Raptor: Key injuries

Suns

  • F Frank Kaminsky (knee) out
  • C Deandre Ayton (ankle) probable
  • C Aron Baynes (hip) probable
  • G Ellie Okobo (ankle) probable
  • F Dario Saric (ankle) probable

Raptors

  • C Marc Gasol (hamstring) out
  • C Dewan Hernandez (ankle) out
  • F Patrick McCaw (illness) doubtful
  • G Norman Powell (finger) doubtful

Suns at Raptors: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated Friday at 9:52 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Suns 114, Raptors 112

Moneyline (ML)

Toronto is the favorite in this game at -334. They are a very good 21-7 at home this season, but the Suns (+260) have been solid on the road, going 11-15 overall. The Raptors have won seven straight at home and the Suns have lost four in a row on the road, but Phoenix is finally healthy. They will have everyone available except for Frank Kaminsky. Phoenix is 8-11 as a road underdog. This is going to be a surprise. Phoenix tends to play up on the road against solid competition.

Fully healthy, expect an upset win by the SUNS at +260. They will get the win and give you a big payout.

New to sports betting? A $10 wager on the Suns returns a profit of $26.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The Raptors are favored at home at -7.5 (-110). The Raptors are 17-11 ATS at home this season, while the Suns have been tough opponents on the road, going 14-12 ATS. When underdogs on the road, they are 11-8 ATS.

Again, with the Suns finally healthy, expect them to go toe-to-toe with the Raptors, who are shorthanded in the frontcourt. Take the Suns to cover at +7.5 (110).

Over/Under (O/U)

The total is set at 226.5 points. Both teams average 112 points per game. The total is high. Suns’ games have gone Under in three of the final four games before the break. Raptors’ games have gone Over in five of six and seven of nine. However, the two teams will hit right near their average and come up just short of the total. Take the UNDER (+100).

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @senorjessroot and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]

Florida Panthers at Toronto Maple Leafs odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Monday’s Florida Panthers at Toronto Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL matchup analysis, picks and tips.

The Florida Panthers (28-17-5) and Toronto Maple Leafs (28-17-7) do battle at Scotiabank Arena at 7 p.m. ET Monday. We analyze the Panthers-Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, while providing NHL betting tips and picks around this matchup.

Panthers at Maple Leafs: Projected starting goalies

Sergei Bobrovsky vs. Frederik Andersen

Bobrovsky was given a wheelbarrow full of money in free agency this past offseason, but he hasn’t exactly been to Vezina form, which is what Florida expected. Still, the Panthers’ high-octane offense has masked some of his struggles to date. He is 19-13-4 with a 3.26 goals against average (GAA) and .897 save percentage in his 37 starts and 38 appearances. He hasn’t faced the Leafs this season, but was 1-2-0 with a 3.04 GAA and .898 SV% in three meetings with Toronto last season.

Andersen mans the crease in this ultra-important Atlantic Division battle. He enters with wins in Nashville and in Dallas in his two games out of the All-Star break. The last time he faced the Panthers, he was tuned up for four goals on just 12 shots before getting pulled early in the second period at home Jan. 12.

Place a sports bet on this hockey action or other games at BetMGM.

Panthers at Maple Leafs: Odds, picks and betting tips

Odds courtesy of BetMGM; access them at USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 3:45 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Maple Leafs 5, Panthers 3

Moneyline (ML)

The Maple Leafs (-167) are a risky play at this price level, which is about the maximum juice I prefer to play in NHL games. The Panthers (+140) roughed up the Leafs 8-4 in the most recent meeting, so that’s fresh in my mind. The Leafs have won seven in a row at Scotiabank Arena vs. the Panthers, however.

New to sports betting? A $10 bet on the Maple Leafs to win returns a profit of $5.99, while a $10 wager on the Panthers results in a profit of $14.

Puck Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The MAPLE LEAFS (-1.5, +150) are worth a very small-unit play, as taking them on the puck line is a much better investment. Toronto has the offense to excel, and Bobrovsky has been very giving. Again, I can’t help but remember the 8-4 loss in Florida in their most recent meeting with the Panthers (+1.5, -182), but that should motivate a Toronto team which has been red-hot out of the break. Remember, the Panthers have dropped seven in a row in Toronto, too.

Over/Under (O/U)

The OVER 6.5 (-110) has connected in six of the past eight for Florida, and the Over is 16-7-1 in its past 24 battles inside the Atlantic Division. The Over is 7-2 in Toronto’s past nine overall, and 5-2 in the past seven against winning teams. The Over has also cashed in five of the past six battles in this series.

Want some action in this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @JoeWilliamsVI and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=2059]

New Jersey Devils at Toronto Maple Leafs odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Tuesday’s New Jersey Devils at Toronto Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL matchup analysis, picks and tips.

The New Jersey Devils (17-21-7) and Toronto Maple Leafs (24-16-6) will tangle at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto at 7 p.m. ET. We analyze the Devils-Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL matchup analysis, picks and tips.

Devils at Maple Leafs: Projected starting goalies

Louis Domingue vs. Frederik Andersen

It’s hard to imagine that the Devils get away from Domingue, who has posted consecutive victories against the Washington Capitals on the road and the Tampa Bay Lightning at home, snapping their 10-game winning streak. In three appearances in January he has a 2-0-0 record, 1.24 goals against average and a .959 save percentage in his two starts and three appearances. If Mackenzie Blackwood is in the crease, he’ll bring a 1-2-1 record with a 3.88 GAA and .891 SV% in four January starts.

Andersen is 21-8-5 with a 2.82 GAA and a .912 SV%, but the All-Star has struggled in the month of January. He has allowed three or more goals in each of his four outings this month, including four goals on just 12 shots in Florida Sunday before being pulled early in the second period.

Place a sports bet on this hockey action or other games at BetMGM.

Devils at Maple Leafs: Odds, picks and betting tips

Odds courtesy of BetMGM; access them at USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 10:35 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Maple Leafs 5, Devils 3

Moneyline (ML)

The Maple Leafs (-278) are too expensive, especially the way Andersen has been tending net recently. If anything, the Devils (+220) are worth a roll of the dice, as they’ve been giant killers lately. Still, the best idea is to AVOID.

New to sports betting? Every $10 wagered on the Devils ML will profit $22 if they win.

Puck Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The MAPLE LEAFS (-1.5, +105) are a little better than even money laying the goal and a half, so if you are feeling a Toronto resurgence following its beatdown in Florida, by all means this is the way to go. I don’t love it, but I’d play a small-unit wager on the home side considering the Devils are 0-4 in the past four meetings, and 1-5 in the past six trips to Toronto.

Over/Under (O/U)

The OVER 6.5 (+100) is where it’s at, going 8-3-3 in the previous 14 meetings in this series. The Over is also 4-1 in Toronto’s past five at home, 4-1 in the past five as a favorite and 7-1 in the previous eight against Metropolitan Division foes.

Want some action on this matchup? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @JoeWilliamsVI and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=2059]

Winnipeg Jets at Toronto Maple Leafs odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Wednesday’s Winnipeg Jets at Toronto Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL matchup analysis, picks and tips.

The Winnipeg Jets (23-16-4) and Toronto Maple Leafs (24-15-5) will do battle at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto at 7:30 p.m. ET Wednesday. We analyze the Jets-Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL matchup analysis, picks and tips.

Jets at Maple Leafs: Projected starting goalies

Connor Hellebuyck vs. Michael Hutchinson

Hellebuyck is the projected starter, and he puts his 19-12-4 record, 2.69 goals against average and .920 save percentage on the line. He earned a victory in Montreal on Monday night, stopping 29 of the 31 shots. However, he surrendered five goals on just 17 shots Jan. 2 in Winnipeg and was pulled by head coach Paul Maurice after two periods in favor of Laurent Brossoit.

Hutchinson is 3-6-1 with a 3.68 GAA and .892 save percentage overall, which isn’t terribly impressive. However, he has won three straight starts, including a shutout in his most recent assignment. He came on for Frederik Andersen on Monday against the Edmonton Oilers after the latter allowed three goals on 19 shots in 21:45 of ice time. Hutchinson originally came up through the Jets organization, so this will be extra special for him.

Place a sports bet on this hockey action or other games at BetMGM.

Jets at Maple Leafs: Odds, picks and betting tips

Odds courtesy of BetMGM; access them at USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 7 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Maple Leafs 5, Jets 3

Moneyline (ML)

The MAPLE LEAFS (-189) are heavily favored to bounce back after having their 9-0-1 run interrupted by the Oilers on Monday, falling 6-4. The Jets (+155) are just 2-5 in the past seven overall, and 1-6 in their past seven against teams with a winning overall mark.

New to sports betting? Every $1.89 wagered on the Maple Leafs ML will profit $1 if they win.

Puck Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The MAPLE LEAFS (-1.5, +135) are the play. However, I have a bit of a sour taste in my mouth after betting it and losing outright against the Oilers. Bettors have to have short memories, though, you know?

Over/Under (O/U)

The OVER 6.5 (+100) is the best bet in this game. The Over has connected in 11 of the previous 15 battles at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, and 12 of the past 15 games overall in this series, including the battle last week at MTS Centre in Winnipeg.

Want some action on this matchup? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @JoeWilliamsVI and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=2059]

Edmonton Oilers at Toronto Maple Leafs odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Monday’s Edmonton Oilers at Toronto Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL matchup analysis, picks and tips.

The Edmonton Oilers (22-17-5) and Toronto Maple Leafs (24-14-5) square off at Scotiabank Arena at 7 p.m. ET Monday (on NBCSN). We analyze the Oilers-Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL matchup analysis, picks and tips.

Oilers at Maple Leafs: Projected starting goalies

Mike Smith vs. Frederik Andersen

Smith is expected to make the start in Connor McDavid’s only visit to his hometown of Toronto. Smith enters with an 8-9-3 record, 3.01 goals against average (GAA) and .897 save percentage with one shutout. He snapped a personal five-game skid with a 4-1 win vs. the Boston Bruins Saturday, stopping 35 of 36 shots.

The All-Star Andersen puts his 21-8-4 record with a 2.67 GAA and .916 save percentage and one shutout on the line. His recent play has been the opposite of Smith, as he is 6-0-1 across his past seven appearances, while the Leafs are 9-0-1 in their past 10 outings to surge in the Atlantic Division.

Place a sports bet on this hockey action or other games at BetMGM.

Oilers at Maple Leafs: Odds, picks and betting tips

Odds courtesy of BetMGM; access them at USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 9:35 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Maple Leafs 5, Oilers 3

Moneyline (ML)

The Maple Leafs (-223) are too expensive at this price level, even though they’re at home, even though they have a red-hot goaltender, and even though they’re putting up huge offensive totals. This marquee game with big-time offense on both sides could go either way, although I expect Toronto’s hot streak to continue.

Puck Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The MAPLE LEAFS (-1.5, +110) are worth a roll of the dice in what is sure to be a game featuring fire-wagon hockey. Toronto’s defense, or lack thereof, is concerning, but the offense has been on point lately, as has Andersen in the crease.

The Oilers (+1.5, -134) have won just four of their past 13 games overall, while going 2-6 in the past eight against the Atlantic Division. They’re also 3-8 in the past 11 as an underdog. More importantly, they’re 6-20 in the past 26 battles with the Leafs, and 0-7 in their past seen trips to Toronto.

Over/Under (O/U)

The OVER 6.5 (+110) will fetch plus-money, but it’s the way to go here. Yes, the under is 4-0-1 in Edmonton’s past five road games, and 7-3-1 in Toronto’s past 11 at home. But Smith can be beaten frequently, and the Toronto offense is red-hot.

Want some action on this matchup? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @JoeWilliamsVI and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=2059]

New York Islanders at Toronto Maple Leafs odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Saturday’s New York Islanders at Toronto Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL betting picks, tips and best bets.

The New York Islanders (25-11-3) and Toronto Maple Leafs (23-14-5) square off at Scotiabank Arena at 7 p.m. ET Saturday. We analyze the Islanders-Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL matchup analysis, picks and tips.

Islanders at Maple Leafs: Projected starting goalies

Semyon Varlamov vs. Michael Hutchinson

Varlamov will be in the crease to face the Maple Leafs, putting his impressive 14-4-3 record, 2.41 goals against average and .921 save percentage on the line. He picked up a win against the Leafs Nov. 13, but he allowed four goals on 27 shots, so it wasn’t a dominating performance.

Hutchinson enters Saturday off of rare back-to-back victories and is now 2-5-1 for the season. He has a .883 SV% and 4.03 GAA, and he gave up four goals on 28 shots in his last start against the New Jersey Devils Dec. 27.

Place a sports bet on this hockey action or other games at BetMGM.

Islanders at Maple Leafs: Odds, picks and betting tips

Odds courtesy of BetMGM; access them at USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 12:15 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Maple Leafs 4, Islanders 3

Moneyline (ML)

The MAPLE LEAFS (-175) are looking for revenge against the Islanders, and they’re going to get it at home. They have won eight of their last nine games overall, and they’re 5-1 in the past six against Eastern Conference foes. The Islanders (+145) have won just once in the past five trips to Hogtown.

Puck Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The puck line is tempting for the Leafs (-1.5, +155), but I expect this to be a one-goal game, perhaps decided in overtime or a shootout. However, the Islanders (+1.5, -189) are just too expensive on the other end. That’s too much chalk to eat.

Over/Under (O/U)

The OVER 5.5 (-133) is a strong play, as you can expect some fire-wagon hockey in this one featuring two high-powered offenses. Plus, the Over is 10-2 in the previous 12 meetings in Toronto.

Want some action on this matchup? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @JoeWilliamsVI and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=2059]

New York Rangers at Toronto Maple Leafs odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Saturday’s New York Rangers at Toronto Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL betting picks, tips and best bets.

The New York Rangers (18-15-4) and Toronto Maple Leafs (21-14-4) will lock horns at Scotiabank Arena at 7 p.m. ET Saturday. We analyze the Rangers-Maple Leafs sports betting odds and lines, with NHL matchup analysis, picks and tips.

Rangers at Maple Leafs: Projected starting goalies

Alexandar Georgiev vs. Frederik Andersen

Georgiev is expected to get the nod after Henrik Lundqvist shut down the Carolina Hurricanes for the third time this season Friday night. With the back-to-back and a heavy workload for the King, Georgiev is expected to play. He is 9-7-1 with a 2.93 goals against average and .915 save percentage with two shutouts. Georgiev is looking to avenge a loss Dec. 20 against the Leafs at Madison Square Garden.

Andersen has posted a 19-8-3 record with a 2.64 goals against average and .916 save percentage, as he has single-handedly kept the Leafs in the mix. If not for his heroics in the crease, who knows where the Blue and White would be.

Place a sports bet on this hockey action or other games at BetMGM.

Rangers at Maple Leafs: Odds, picks and betting tips

Odds courtesy of BetMGM; access them at USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated at 11:45 a.m. ET.

Prediction

Maple Leafs 6, Rangers 4

Moneyline (ML)

The MAPLE LEAFS (-238) are worth a small-unit play here, as the Rangers (+190) are 10-4 in the past 14 trips to Toronto, but just 2-5 in the previous seven meetings in this series. The Blueshirts are also just 4-10 in the past 14 games when working on no rest while going 1-7 in the past eight vs. Atlantic Division foes.

Puck Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

The Maple Leafs (-1.5, +115) have a chance to cover the puck line, and that’s the way to roll if you want to play this game. However, the defensive lapses of the Leafs lately make them risky business. AVOID.

Over/Under (O/U)

The OVER 6.5 (+125) is the way to go in this one, cashing in nine of the past 11 meetings at Scotiabank Arena. The Over is also 6-0-1 in New York’s past seven overall, and 4-1 in Toronto’s past five overall.

Want some action on this matchup? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @JoeWilliamsVI and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=2059]

Boston Celtics at Toronto Raptors odds, picks and best bets

Previewing Christmas Day’s Boston Celtics at Toronto Raptors sports betting odds and lines, with NBA betting picks, tips and best bets.

The Boston Celtics (20-7) and Toronto Raptors (21-9) battle at Scotiabank Arena at noon ET Wednesday. We analyze the Celtics-Raptors odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.

Special Christmas Day NBA Prop Bet

BET $1, WIN $200 (in free bets) IF ANY NBA team playing December 25th, 2019 hits a 3-pointer. Bet now!

Visit BetMGM for terms and conditions.

Celtics at Raptors: Key injuries

Celtics

  • SF Gordon Hayward (foot) probable, expected to play
  • C Vincent Poirier (finger) out
  • PG Marcus Smart (eye) out
  • C Robert Williams III (hip) out

Raptors

  • C Marc Gasol (hamstring) out
  • PF Dewan Hernandez (ankle) out
  • SG Norman Powell (shoulder) out
  • PF Pascal Siakam (groin) out
  • SG Matt Thomas (finger) out

Celtics at Raptors: Odds, lines, picks and betting tips

NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full set of today’s betting odds. Odds last updated Tuesday at 11:55 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Celtics 112, Raptors 103

Moneyline (ML)

The Raptors (+125) are a little shorthanded in the frontcourt, as Siakam’s absence gives the CELTICS (-154) the upper hand. Eating this moderate amount of chalk falls in line with what I like to do, as I won’t go more than -160 or -170.

New to sports betting? A $10 bet on the Celtics to win outright returns a profit of $6.49.

Line/Against the Spread (ATS)

If you hit the CELTICS (-2.5, -115), it isn’t terribly risky, and a little cheaper than taking them on the moneyline, which will cost you substantially more. The Raptors (+2.5, -106) are at home, but aren’t an attractive play with some frontcourt injury issues. The Celtics are 0-8 ATS in the past eight trips to Toronto, so tread lightly. But trends are made to be broken.

Over/Under (O/U)

The OVER 210.5 (-125) is worth a small-unit bet, as the Celtics should be able to take advantage of Toronto’s frontcourt injury woes. While the Under has been the play for both sides lately, the Over has hit in four of the past five in this series, too. This game won’t be mistaken for Paul Westhead basketball of the 1980’s, but it won’t be a defensive slog, either.

Want some action on this game? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting tips and advice, visit SportsbookWire.com.

Follow @JoeWilliamsVI and @SportsbookWire on Twitter.

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services.  Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1368]