Tag: Toronto Maple Leafs betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets

Toronto Maple Leafs at Tampa Bay Lightning Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Toronto Maple Leafs at Tampa Bay Lightning Game 3 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Toronto Maple Leafs visit the Tampa Bay Lightning Saturday for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals. Puck drop from Amalie Arena is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (TBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Maple Leafs vs. Lightning odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The series is tied 1-1.

The Lightning opened the series with a 7-3 victory at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto Tuesday. The Maple Leafs rebounded in a big way, dropping the Lightning by a 7-2 score in Game 2 Thursday

Tampa Bay went 4-for-8 on the power play in Game 1, while Toronto was 2-for-4. In Game 2, the Lightning went 0-for-3 on the man advantage, while the Leafs were a solid 2-for-6.

Game 2 saw plenty of penalties too. Tampa Bay racked up 12 total penalties and 49 minutes, while Toronto was sent to the box 7 times for a total of 23 PIM. We had 94 total hits in Game 2, and we should see another physical affair in Game 3.

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Maple Leafs at Lightning odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:42 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Maple Leafs -120 (bet $120 to win $100) | Lightning +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Maple Leafs -1.5 (+200) | Lightning +1.5 (-250)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Maple Leafs at Lightning projected goalies

Ilya Samsonov (27-10-5, 2.33 GAA, .919 SV%, 4 SO – regular season vs. Andrei Vasilevskiy (34-22-4, 2.65 GAA, .915 SV%, 4 SO – regular season)

Samsonov was yanked after 2 periods in Game 1 in favor of G Joseph Woll after coughing up 6 goals on 29 shots. He settled down in Game 2, allowing just 2 goals on 22 shots.

Vasilevskiy allowed 3 goals on 31 shots in Game 1, with 2 of those goals coming on the man advantage. Most of the damage happened after the game was mostly out of hand, too. In Game 2, however, Vasilevskiy was a shell of himself, yielding 7 goals on 37 shots.

Vasilevskiy has allowed 14 goals on 92 shots — just an .848 SV% — in his past 3 starts against the Leafs, including the final regular-season start on April 11 at Amalie.

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Maple Leafs at Lightning picks and predictions

Prediction

Maple Leafs 4, Lightning 3

Moneyline

The MAPLE LEAFS (-120) are worth a look in Game 3, as Toronto looks to build upon its momentum after an offensive explosion in Game 2.

Toronto has won 5 out of its last 6 games on the road while going 4-0 in the past 4 outings when playing on a day of rest.

Despite their Game 1 win, the Lightning are still just 2-5 in the past 7 games overall.

Puck line/Against the spread

The Lightning +1.5 (-250) will cost you 2 1/2 times your potential return if you’d like a little bit of insurance.

Tampa Bay is 1-3 on the puck line as an underdog in the past 4, with the only cover coming in the series opener. It has lost the other 3 games dating back to April 5 by 3 or more goals.

PASS.

Over/Under

It’s all about the OVER 6.5 (+100) at even money in Game 3.

We’ve had 10 goals in the first game, and 9 total goals in the second installment of this series. Those totals are par for the course when the Lightning and Leafs hook up, as the Over is 9-2 in the past 11 meetings overall while cashing in 8 consecutive meetings in Tampa.

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Tampa Bay Lightning at Toronto Maple Leafs Game 2 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Tampa Bay Lightning at Toronto Maple Leafs Game 2 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Tampa Bay Lightning visit the Toronto Maple Leafs Thursday for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals. Puck drop from Scotiabank Arena is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Lightning vs. Maple Leafs odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Lightning opened last season’s playoffs with a 5-0 stinker in Game 1 in Toronto. Tampa Bay wasn’t about to let that happen again.

Light-scoring Pierre-Edouard Bellemare, who hadn’t scored a goal in the final 20 regular-season games, opened the scoring. Anthony Cirelli then took advantage of a dumb Leafs turnover, beating a helpless Ilya Samsonov, and you could hear a pin drop at Scotiabank Arena after just 7:18.

A T.J. Brodie holding penalty late in the period gave the Lightning a chance on the power play, and Nikita Kucherov took advantage, scoring with 3.6 seconds left to stun Toronto, as the Lightning jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the opening game Tuesday night.

The Leafs posted a pair of power-play goals from Ryan O’Reilly and Williams Nylander, and suddenly it was just 3-2. Toronto had life, the building was alive, and all appeared to be headed in the right direction. Then, a slash on David Kampf led to a Brayden Point PPG.

Still, at 4-2, it wasn’t lights out, but an ugly hit and match penalty on Michael Bunting sucked all the air out of Toronto’s sails. Corey Perry snuck one in on the pipe, which Toronto challenged. It was upheld, and a penalty assessed for an incorrect challenge. Down 2 men, Point struck again on the power play, and it was good night, Toronto.

The teams exchanged goals in the 3rd, ending in a football score, with the Buccaneers 7, Argonauts 3. I mean, Lightning 7, Leafs 3.

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Lightning at Maple Leafs Game 2 odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 8:54 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Lightning +135 (bet $100 to win $135) | Maple Leafs -160 (bet $160 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Lightning +1.5 (-190) | Maple Leafs -1.5 (+155)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Lightning at Maple Leafs Game 2 projected goalies

Andrei Vasilevskiy (34-22-4, 2.65 GAA, .915 SV%, 4 SO – regular season) vs. Ilya Samsonov (27-10-5, 2.33 GAA, .919 SV%, 4 SO – regular season)

Vasilevskiy allowed 3 goals on 31 shots, with 2 of the markers with the game still in question coming on the man advantage. He allowed a late, meaningless goal to Calle Jarnkrok on a nice hockey play, but it wasn’t a big deal. Vasilevskiy looks locked in for the postseason.

Samsonov slipped to 1-7-0 all-time in the postseason with his Game 1 loss, and it’s one of the reasons the Capitals didn’t commit to him long-term, making him available to the Leafs as a UFA last summer. He had a dynamite regular season, but the ugly playoff streak continued.

It wasn’t all Sammy’s fault, however, as the Leafs put him in some untenable situations early, going shorthanded so many times. Really, he made 1, maybe 2, bad reads, so the loss shouldn’t be placed solely at his feet. Joseph Woll made his playoff debut to start the 3rd period, giving Samsonov a mental break.

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Lightning at Maple Leafs Game 2 picks and predictions

Prediction

Maple Leafs 5, Lightning 3

Moneyline

The MAPLE LEAFS (-160) are a risky play in what is a must-win situation before the series shifts to Tampa for Games 3 and 4. If you thought the Leafs had pressure on them heading into Game 1, it will be that times 100 in this contest.

The Lightning (+135) took advantage of some undisciplined play by the Leafs in Game 1, and I expect that coach Sheldon Keefe and his staff will address that rather loudly before Thursday’s game. Look for the Leafs to fire out of the chute and play much better in Game 2, although it’s super hard to back a team which was boat-raced by 4 in their own barn 48 hours ago.

Puck line/Against the spread

The MAPLE LEAFS -1.5 (+155) are also worth a look on the puck line.

After a 2-1 OT loss in Boston April 6, the Leafs bounced back with a 7-1 win over the Montreal Canadiens. Yes, it’s much different, as the Habs missed the playoffs, but the past 6 times Toronto lost to close out the regular season, it responded with a win. In 5 of those games, Toronto covered the puck line, too.

Over/Under

The Lightning managed to take care of the OVER 6 (-120) in Game 1 on their own. I expect Samsonov not to be placed in so many bad situations, and for the Leafs to be a little more urgent on the offensive end. We should see a more balanced game, with the home side coming out on top this time.

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Tampa Bay Lightning at Toronto Maple Leafs Game 1 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Tampa Bay Lightning at Toronto Maple Leafs Game 1 odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Tampa Bay Lightning (46-30-6) visit the Toronto Maple Leafs (50-21-11) on Tuesday for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals. Puck drop from Scotiabank Arena is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Lightning vs. Maple Leafs odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Lightning and Maple Leafs renew playoff acquaintances for the 2nd consecutive season. Tampa Bay edged Toronto 4-3 in the opening round last year, including a 2-1 win at Scotiabank Arena in Game 7.

Tampa Bay struggled down the stretch in the regular season, winning just once in the final 5 games and posting a 4-8-0 record in its last 12 outings. That includes a 4-3 loss on home ice against the Maple Leafs in the most recent meeting last Tuesday.

The Lightning won 4-3 in OT in the first meeting on Dec. 3 at Amalie Arena. The Leafs won the final 2 regular-season meetings, including a 4-1 win on Dec. 20 in the only meeting in Ontario.

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Lightning at Maple Leafs Game 1 odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:05 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Lightning +130 (bet $100 to win $130) | Maple Leafs -155 (bet $155 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Lightning +1.5 (-200) | Maple Leafs -1.5 (+165)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Lightning at Maple Leafs Game 1 projected goalies

Andrei Vasilevskiy (34-22-4, 2.65 GAA, .915 SV%, 4 SO) vs. Ilya Samsonov (27-10-5, 2.33 GAA, .919 SV%, 4 SO)

Vasilevskiy has won 2 Stanley Cups, and he isn’t going to go quietly into the night. At the same time, there are questions about the 28-year-old, as he allowed 10 goals on 61 shots in the final 2 regular-season games, including a 4-3 loss against the Maple Leafs in Tampa last Tuesday.

Samsonov closed the season on fire, going 3-1-1 with a 1.25 GAA and .959 SV% in his final 5 regular-season outings, including a 31-save shutout in Ottawa on April 1. He did not face the Lightning in 3 regular-season meetings.

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Lightning at Maple Leafs Game 1 picks and predictions

Prediction

Maple Leafs 4, Lightning 2

Moneyline

The MAPLE LEAFS (-155) are a nice play as moderate favorites on home ice.

The Leafs haven’t won a playoff series since 2004, while the Lightning have hoisted the Stanley Cup twice in the past 3 seasons and played for another title last year. However, Tampa Bay has looked quite beatable this season, not playing its usual dominating style. Is this the year Toronto finally gets over the hump for its championship-starved fans?

Well, this is just 1 game, but a loss in the series opener would be a crusher. Look for Toronto to get it done at home.

Puck line/Against the spread

The MAPLE LEAFS -1.5 (+165) are worth a roll of the dice on the puck line, but it might take an empty-net goal to get this bet over the hump. Toronto won and covered the only home meeting this season against Tampa Bay by a 4-1 score, cashing as a -134 favorite.

The Lightning are also 1-6 in the past 7 on the road, and 4-11 in the past 15 against winning teams. The Leafs should fire out of the chute quickly and hang on for the win and cover, drawing first blood in the series.

Over/Under

I expect the Over/Under 6 to come right down on the number. If there was a lean, it would be to the Over, which has cashed in 7 of the past 9 in the series.

The Over is also 5-1 in the past 6 in the Conference Quarterfinals round for the Lightning, while also going 5-1 in the past 6 Conference Quarterfinals games for the Leafs, too.

Still, I’d take a PASS, and just focus on the moneyline and puck line.

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Toronto Maple Leafs at Florida Panthers odds, picks and predictions

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

The Toronto Maple Leafs (47-21-11) travel to meet the Florida Panthers (42-31-7) Monday. Puck drop from FLA Live Arena is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+/hulu). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Maple Leafs vs. Panthers odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Maple Leafs earned home-ice advantage in the Atlantic Division, and it will host the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 1st round of the Stanley Cup playoffs for the 2nd consecutive season.

The Panthers are tied with the New York Islanders at 91 points with 2 regular-season games remaining. They’re also just 1 point clear of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who also have 2 regular-season games remaining.

The last time these teams met in Sunrise on March 23, the Leafs skated away with a 6-2 victory. Florida won the most recent meeting on March 29 by a 3-2 score in Toronto in OT.

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Maple Leafs at Panthers odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:14 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Maple Leafs +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Panthers -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Maple Leafs +1.5 (-200) | Panthers -1.5 (+165)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Maple Leafs at Panthers projected goalies

Ilya Samsonov (26-10-5, 2.36 GAA, .917 SV%, 4 SO) vs. Sergei Bobrovsky (24-20-3, 3.07 GAA, .901 SV%, 1 SO)

Samsonov allowed just 1 goal on 21 shots in a 7-1 win against the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday. He is 2-1-1 with a sparkling 1.34 GAA and .950 SV% with a shutout in 4 April starts.

Bobrovsky recovered from a non-COVID illness, and was back on the bench as the backup to Alex Lyon Saturday. He hasn’t started since March 27 in Ottawa, a 5-2 loss. The veteran has allowed 4 or more goals in each of his last 3 appearances.

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Maple Leafs at Panthers picks and predictions

Prediction

Panthers 4, Maple Leafs 2

Moneyline

The PANTHERS (-145) are a solid value as moderate favorites on home ice.

Florida is in a 3-way battle for the final 2 Wild-Card spots in the Eastern Conference, while the Maple Leafs (+120) are locked into their playoff spot, and it isn’t quite as desperate as the home side for the win. Look for Florida to get a key 2 points, moving closer to a playoff spot.

Puck line/Against the spread

The PANTHERS -1.5 (+165) are a solid value on the puck line, too.

Florida has won 6 in a row, while going 4-0 in the last 4 games inside the Atlantic Division, and 4-0 in the last 4 games when playing on a day of rest.

During Florida’s 6-game win streak, it is outscoring the opposition 28-9, including 4 wins by 2 or more goals.

Over/Under

UNDER 7 (-120) is the lean, but be careful.

While the Under is 5-2 in the last 7 games overall for the Leafs, the Over is 7-2-1 in the last 10 meetings, including 4-1 in the last 5 battles in Sunrise. The Over is 5-2-1 in the last 8 games at home for Florida, too.

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Florida Panthers at Toronto Maple Leafs odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Florida Panthers at Toronto Maple Leafs odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Florida Panthers (36-31-7) visit the Toronto Maple Leafs (44-20-9) Wednesday. Puck drop from Scotiabank Arena is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Panthers vs. Maple Leafs odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Panthers currently sit 3 points out of the final Wild-Card spot in the Eastern Conference thanks to a 4-game losing streak. Florida has been outscored 21-10 during the skid. The Over is 3-0-2 in the last 5 games overall.

The Maple Leafs picked up a 3-2 win against the Nashville Predators Sunday, rebounding from a 5-3 setback against the Carolina Hurricanes in Raleigh Saturday. The Under in the Music City snapped a 5-0 Over run for the Leafs.

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Panthers at Maple Leafs odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:04 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Panthers +130 (bet $100 to win $130) | Maple Leafs -150 (bet $150 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Panthers +1.5 (-180) | Maple Leafs -1.5 (+140)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -160 | U: +122)

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Panthers at Maple Leafs projected goalies

Sergei Bobrovsky (24-20-3, 3.07 GAA, .901 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Ilya Samsonov (24-9-3, 2.46 GAA, .914 SV%, 3 SO)

Bobrovsky allowed 4 goals on just 26 shots in Ottawa Monday, and he has dropped 3 straight starts while allowing 4 or more goals in each of the outings.

Bob allowed 5 goals on 26 shots in a 6-2 loss against the Leafs in Sunrise last Thursday, the most goals he has allowed since Jan. 17, which was also against the Leafs, a 5-4 OT loss in Toronto.

Samsonov was smashed for 6 goals on just 28 shots last Tuesday on the road against the Islanders. He came on in a relief effort in his most recent appearance against the Panthers Jan. 17, turning aside all 11 of the shots he faced in an OT win.

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Panthers at Maple Leafs picks and predictions

Prediction

Maple Leafs 6, Panthers 4

Moneyline

The MAPLE LEAFS (-150) are worth playing, mostly because the Panthers (+130) are so ice-cold lately.

The Cats have dropped 4 in a row, including 4 straight against Eastern Conference foes.

The Leafs are 4-1 in the last 5 games inside the Atlantic Division. In addition, Toronto has won 17 of the lst 21 home games following a road trip of 7 or more days.

Puck line/Against the spread

The MAPLE LEAFS -1.5 (+140) are worth a look on the puck line against the skidding Panthers +1.5 (-180).

Toronto won and covered as a favorite in its most recent home game against Carolina on March 17, while Florida has lost 3 of the last 4 games by 3 or more goals.

Over/Under

The OVER 6.5 (-160) is rather costly for a total play, but we should see plenty of goals in Hogtown.

The Over is 3-0-2 in the last 5 games for the Panthers, while going 5-1-1 in the last 7 games on the road.

The Over is 5-1 in the last 6 games overall for the Leafs, while cashing at a 7-0-1 clip in the last 8 against Eastern Conference foes.

In addition, the Over is 7-1-1 in the last 9 meetings in this series, while going 5-0-1 in the previoust 6 meetings in Toronto.

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Toronto Maple Leafs at Nashville Predators odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Toronto Maple Leafs at Nashville Predators odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Toronto Maple Leafs (43-20-9) and Nashville Predators (36-27-8) meet Sunday at Bridgestone Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET (NHL Network). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Maple Leafs vs. Predators odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Maple Leafs lost as +122 underdogs 5-3 at the Carolina Hurricanes Saturday. C Auston Matthews scored twice for the Maple Leafs, who have alternated wins and losses over their last 4 games.

The Predators lost as +123 home underdogs 7-2 vs. the Seattle Kraken Saturday. D Tyson Barrie finished with a goal and an assist as Nashville lost for the 3rd time in its last 4 home games.

This is the 2nd meeting this season between these teams. Toronto won as a -169 home favorite 2-1 as the Under (6) cashed Jan. 11.

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Maple Leafs at Predators odds

Provided by Tipico 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): Maple Leafs -175 (bet $175 to win $100) | Predators +150 (bet $100 to win $150)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Maple Leafs -1.5 (+135) | Predators +1.5 (-155)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

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Maple Leafs at Predators projected goalies

Joseph Woll (2-1-0, 2.04 GAA, .938 SV%) vs. Kevin Lankinen (8-6-1, 2.70 GAA, .917 SV%)

This is Woll’s 1st time facing the Predators. He’s 4-1-0 in 5 career road starts and has allowed 12 goals on 149 shots, good for a 2.40 GAA and .919 SV%.

Lankinen faced the Maple Leafs twice last season as a member of the Chicago Blackhawks, going 0-1-1 and allowing 8 goals on 66 shots, good for a 3.98 GAA and .879 SV%. In 4 home starts this season, he’s 2-2-0 with a 3.02 GAA and .906 SV% (127 saves against 139 shots).

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Maple Leafs at Predators picks and predictions

Prediction

Maple Leafs 5, Predators 2

Moneyline

PASS.

Toronto (-175) should be able to bounce back after losing last time out, but there is no need to pay the higher price on the moneyline when the Maple Leafs should win by multiple goals. Bet the puck line and/or the total instead.

Puck line/Against the spread

BET MAPLE LEAFS -1.5 (+135).

Three of Toronto’s last 4 wins have been by multiple goals and Lankinen should struggle once again to stop the Maple Leafs. Toronto will be focused to get the win after losing at Carolina and should come out extra confident Sunday facing a goalie they have had success against. Toronto has won 3 of the last 4 meetings vs. Nashville and should be able to run up the score with Lankinen in net.

Over/Under

BET OVER 6.5 (-108).

Toronto has been playing in high-scoring games lately and the Over has hit in each of its last 5 contests. The Over is 5-1-2 in the Maple Leafs’ last 8 games vs. teams with a winning record and Sunday’s matchup should be another impressive display of Toronto’s 7th-ranked offense (3.43 goals per game).

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Toronto Maple Leafs at Florida Panthers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Toronto Maple Leafs at Florida Panthers odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Toronto Maple Leafs (42-19-9) play the 3rd contest of a 5-game road trip against the Florida Panthers (36-28-7) Thursday. Puck drop from FLA Live Arena is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Maple Leafs vs. Panthers odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Maple Leafs were feeling pretty good about themselves after a 5-2 win at home against the Carolina Hurricanes Friday and opened their road trip with a 5-4 shootout victory at the Ottawa Senators Saturday. However, Toronto was given a hard dose of reality in a 7-2 loss against the New York Islanders Tuesday as they headed south.

The Panthers were also feeling good about themselves, going 6-0-1 from March 4-20. However, Florida was also given a dose of reality as it was doubled up 6-3 against the Philadelphia Flyers Tuesday.

These teams last met in Toronto on Jan. 17 when the Leafs skated away with a 5-4 overtime win as the Over (6.5) cashed.

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Maple Leafs at Panthers odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:13 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Maple Leafs -110 (bet $105 to win $100) | Panthers -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Maple Leafs +1.5 (-250) | Panthers -1.5 (+180)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: +135 | U: -170)

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Maple Leafs at Panthers projected goalies

Matt Murray (13-7-2, 2.96 GAA, .905 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Sergei Bobrovsky (24-17-3, 2.98 GAA, .904 SV%, 1 SO)

Murray was sensational Saturday in Ottawa against his former team, stopping 48 of the 52 shots he faced in the victory. However, he has allowed exactly 4 goals in each of his past 6 starts, and he faced 35 or fewer shots in each of the other 5. That includes 4 goals allowed on just 8 shots in Toronto on Jan. 17, and he was pulled early in the 2nd period of that comeback win.

Bobrovsky allowed just 2 goals on 22 shots in a win at the Detroit Red Wings Monday, his 3rd straight start with a win. He has also started 7 straight starts without a loss in regulation, suffering only an OTL against the Winnipeg Jets at home on March 11. He is 6-1-1 with a 2.60 GAA and .903 SV% in 8 starts in March.

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Maple Leafs at Panthers picks and predictions

Prediction

Panthers 4, Maple Leafs 2

Moneyline

The PANTHERS (-110) are worth a look on home ice.

The Panthers were red-hot until the setback in Philadelphia, but that was a tough spot with a quick turnaround after playing at Detroit Monday. No rest and travel results in a difficult game the following night, especially with a backup goaltender.

Florida is still 6-2 in the past 8 games and 5-1 in the past 6 against Eastern Conference foes. It is also 19-7 in the past 26 home games against the Leafs. Look for Florida to continue its dominance in the series.

Puck line/Against the spread

The PANTHERS -1.5 (+180) are worth a shot on the puck line for a chance to nearly double up.

Florida has covered the puck line in 3 of its last 4 as a favorite, winning those 3 games by an average of 3.0 goals.

However, each of the last 3 meetings in this series has been won by the home team in overtime, so go lightly.

Over/Under

The Under 7.5 (-170) is priced a little too high for my liking. It’s rare to see a total of 7 offered, let alone 7.5.

While 6 of the past 8 meetings in this series have had a total of 8 or more goals, and both teams saw a total of 9 goals in their games on Tuesday, it’s too much risk for not enough reward.

PASS.

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Toronto Maple Leafs at New York Islanders odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Toronto Maple Leafs at New York Islanders odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Toronto Maple Leafs (42-18-9) play the 2nd contest of a 5-game road trip against the New York Islanders (36-27-8) Tuesday. Puck drop from UBS Arena is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Maple Leafs vs. Islanders odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Maple Leafs opened their road trip with a 5-4 shootout victory against the Ottawa Senators Saturday. Toronto is 4-1-1 over its last 6 games.

The Islanders wrapped up a California road trip with wins over the Anaheim Ducks (6-3 Wednesday) and San Jose Sharks (4-1 Saturday) after losing 5-2 to the Los Angeles Kings last Tuesday.

New York has 80 points through 71 games, sitting in the first wild-card position in the Eastern Conference, a point ahead of the Florida Panthers.

These teams have met twice in Toronto this season with the Isles picking up a 3-2 overtime win on Nov. 21 and the Leafs recording a 5-2 victory on Jan. 23.

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Maple Leafs at Islanders odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:51 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Maple Leafs -125 (bet $125 to win $100) | Islanders +105 (bet $100 to win $105)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Maple Leafs -1.5 (+180) | Islanders +1.5 (-230)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: -130 | U: +110)

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Maple Leafs at Islanders projected goalies

Ilya Samsonov (24-8-3, 2.35 GAA, .917 SV%, 3 SO) vs. Ilya Sorokin (25-19-6, 2.37 GAA, .924 SV%, 5 SO)

Samsonov is confirmed for Tuesday, although plans could still change, as the goalie might be forced to leave the team at the last minute due to the impending birth of his child.

Samsonov has been hot lately, winning 5 of his past 7 starts, while allowing 2 or fewer goals in 4 of his last 6 outings. He allowed 2 goals on 33 shots against the Isles Jan. 23.

Sorokin allowed just a single goal on 30 shots in San Jose Saturday in his most recent showing. He is 5-1-0 with a 2.35 GAA and .919 SV% in 6 March outings. Sorokin was the visiting goalie Jan. 23 in Toronto, allowing 5 goals on 39 shots in the loss. He also allowed just 2 goals on 32 shots in the Nov. 21 win in the first meeting.

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Maple Leafs at Islanders picks and predictions

Prediction

Islanders 3, Maple Leafs 2

Moneyline

The ISLANDERS (+105) are worth a look as short ‘dogs at home, especially with the Maple Leafs dealing with undisclosed injuries to C Noel Acciari and D T.J. Brodie, making both question marks. The center seems likely to return to action Tuesday after missing Saturday’s game.

Toss in the fact the Leafs could be forced to make a late goaltender change, and there is just more certainty backing the Isles.

Puck line/Against the spread

The Islanders +1.5 (-230) will cost you nearly 2 1/2 times your potential return if you’d like a little insurance and don’t want to play the home team straight up.

AVOID.

Over/Under

The UNDER 5.5 (+110) is the lean but go with a half-unit play at most.

The Over has dominated for the Leafs lately, going 4-1-1 in the past 6 games and cashing at a 4-0-1 clip in their past 5 against Eastern Conference foes.

However, it’s been all about the Under for the Islanders, cashing in 4 of their last 5 games at home and at a 12-4-1 clip in the past 17 games against Atlantic Division teams. The Under is 4-1-1 in the past 6 in the series, too.

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For sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Plus, try out the USA TODAY Parlay Calculator and please gamble responsibly.

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Carolina Hurricanes at Toronto Maple Leafs odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Carolina Hurricanes at Toronto Maple Leafs odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Carolina Hurricanes (44-14-8) and Toronto Maple Leafs (40-18-9) meet Friday at Scotiabank Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (NHL Network). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Hurricanes vs. Maple Leafs odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Hurricanes won as -222 home favorites 5-3 vs. the Winnipeg Jets Tuesday. C Jesperi Kotkaniemi scored 2 goals for the Hurricanes, who bounced back after 2 straight losses.

The Maple Leafs lost 2-1 in the shootout as -136 home favorites Wednesday vs. the Colorado Avalanche. D Morgan Rielly scored the lone goal for the Maple Leafs, who lost their 2nd straight game.

This is the 2nd meeting this season between these teams. Toronto won 3-1 as a +149 road underdog as the Under (6.5) cashed Nov. 6.

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Hurricanes at Maple Leafs odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:10 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Hurricanes +100 (bet $100 to win $100) | Maple Leafs -120 (bet $120 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Hurricanes +1.5 (-250) | Maple Leafs -1.5 (+200)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: +115 | U: -135)

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Hurricanes at Maple Leafs projected goalies

Frederik Andersen (17-7-0, 2.41 GAA, .903 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Ilya Samsonov (23-8-3, 2.36 GAA, .916 SV%, 3 SO)

Andersen allowed 3 goals on 21 shots in the Nov. 6 loss to Carolina. He’s 2-4-2 in 9 career games (8 starts) vs. his former team with a 3.12 GAA and .880 SV% (184 saves against 209 shots).

Samsonov faced the Hurricanes 3 times last season (2 starts) as a member of the Washington Capitals and went 2-0-0, allowing 6 goals on 58 shots, good for a 2.48 GAA and .897 SV%. He’s 4-0-0 in 5 career games (4 starts) vs. Carolina with a 2.04 GAA and .926 SV% (113 saves against 122 shots).

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Hurricanes at Maple Leafs picks and predictions

Prediction

Maple Leafs 3, Hurricanes 2

Moneyline

BET MAPLE LEAFS (-120).

Toronto will be desperate to bounce back after scoring just 1 goal and losing its 2nd straight game last time out. The Maple Leafs are 6-1 in their last 7 games after scoring 2 or fewer goals in their previous contest and 16-7 in their last 23 vs. teams with a winning percentage above .600.

Toronto is a tough place to win for visitors as the Maple Leafs are 55-22 in their last 77 home games and it is unlikely that Carolina will hand Toronto its 3rd straight loss.

Puck line/Against the spread

PASS.

The Hurricanes +1.5 (-250) should hit, but Carolina is slightly overvalued on the puck line. Bet the moneyline and/or total instead.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 6.5 (-135).

The Under is 6-1-1 in Carolina’s last 8 games after a win and 5-1-1 in its last 7 vs. teams with a winning record.

The Under has gone 4-1-1 in Toronto’s last 6 games after scoring 2 or fewer goals in its previous contest and Friday’s matchup should be another low-scoring affair.

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For sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Plus, try out the USA TODAY Parlay Calculator and please gamble responsibly.

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Colorado Avalanche at Toronto Maple Leafs odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Colorado Avalanche at Toronto Maple Leafs odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Colorado Avalanche (37-22-6) and Toronto Maple Leafs (40-18-8) meet Wednesday at Scotiabank Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Avalanche vs. Maple Leafs odds, and make our expert NHL picks and predictions.

The Avalanche won as -258 favorites 8-4 at the Montreal Canadiens Monday. LW Artturi Lehkonen scored 2 goals for the Avalanche in just under 10 minutes of action before leaving the game with a broken finger. Lehkonen is expected to be sidelined for 4-6 weeks. The victory marked Colorado’s 3rd in its last 4 games.

The Maple Leafs lost as -229 home favorites 4-3 vs. the Buffalo Sabres Monday. Toronto took a 2-0 lead early in the 2nd period, but was outscored 4-0 and outshot 23-7 in the 27 minutes that followed.

This is the 2nd meeting this season between these teams. Toronto won as a -113 road favorite 6-2 as the Over (5.5) cashed Dec. 31.

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Avalanche at Maple Leafs odds

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

  • Moneyline (ML): Avalanche +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Maple Leafs -140 (bet $140 to win $100)
  • Puck line (PL)/Against the spread (ATS): Avalanche +1.5 (-210) | Maple Leafs -1.5 (+170)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Avalanche at Maple Leafs projected goalies

Alexandar Georgiev (29-14-5, 2.65 GAA, .916 SV%, 4 SO) vs. Ilya Samsonov (23-8-2, 2.41 GAA, .915 SV%, 3 SO)

Georgiev allowed 5 goals on 24 shots vs. the Maple Leafs in the Dec. 31 loss. He’s 3-3-0 in 6 career starts vs. Toronto with a 3.75 GAA and .915 SV% (227 saves against 248 shots).

Samsonov faced the Avalanche twice last season as a member of the Washington Capitals and went 2-0-0, allowing 5 goals on 53 shots, good for a 2.50 GAA and .906 SV%. His only other career game vs. Colorado was a relief appearance for the Capitals on Oct. 14, 2019. Samsonov allowed 2 goals on 21 shots in the 6-3 home loss.

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Avalanche at Maple Leafs picks and predictions

Prediction

Maple Leafs 3, Avalanche 2

Moneyline

BET MAPLE LEAFS (-140).

Toronto is at a good price and should be able to bounce back after a disappointing loss vs. the Sabres. The Maple Leafs tend to play up to their level of competition and are 8-3 in their last 11 games vs. teams with a winning record. While the Avalanche are coming off an impressive performance last time out, Toronto is a hard place to win and the Maple Leafs are 37-14 in their last 51 home games.

Puck line/Against the spread

PASS.

Colorado +1.5 (-210) should hit, but the Avalanche are slightly overvalued on the puck line. Bet the moneyline and/or total instead.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 6.5 (-105).

The Under is 17-7-3 in Colorado’s last 27 games vs. teams with a winning record and 19-7-3 in the Avalanche’s last 29 on the road.

These teams tend to play low-scoring games vs. each other in Toronto, with the Under going 7-3-1 in the last 11 meetings, and Wednesday’s matchup should be another low-scoring affair.

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For sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Plus, try out the USA TODAY Parlay Calculator and please gamble responsibly.

Follow Corey Scott on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

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