NHL Predictions | Devils, Blues, Penguins Best Bets Today

NHL Best Bets for Thursday Night

Dive into tonight’s NHL betting action with in-depth analysis of three pivotal matchups. From a dominant New Jersey Devils squad taking on the struggling Columbus Blue Jackets to underdog value with the St. Louis Blues and the Pittsburgh Penguins, we break down the odds, trends, and key insights for tonight’s games.

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New Jersey Devils vs. Columbus Blue Jackets

The New Jersey Devils are poised to exploit the Columbus Blue Jackets, who are currently on a five-game losing streak. Defensive lapses have plagued Columbus, as they’ve consistently allowed over ten high-danger chances and more than 25 scoring opportunities in recent games. The result? A dismal 39.9% expected goals-for rating.

Conversely, the Devils remain one of the league’s top offensive teams, ranking third in high-danger chances and fifth in scoring opportunities. With their offensive prowess shining in recent games, the Devils are heavily favored to cover the puck line tonight. Expect Jack Hughes and company to capitalize on Columbus’ defensive woes.

Best Bet: Devils -1.5 (+116)

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St. Louis Blues vs. Tampa Bay Lightning

The St. Louis Blues may not have found immediate success under coach Jim Montgomery, but their improved analytics suggest wins are on the horizon. Over their last five games, the Blues have consistently out-chanced their opponents in high-danger opportunities, even if the results haven’t yet matched the effort.

In contrast, the Tampa Bay Lightning are teetering on the edge of regression. Despite winning five of their last six games, Tampa’s metrics are declining, with a PDO of 1.047 signaling unsustainable success. As the Bolts’ metrics erode, the Blues’ improving play gives them a solid edge as underdogs tonight.

Best Bet: Blues Moneyline (+184)

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Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Nashville Predators

Both the Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators have underperformed this season, but the Penguins’ recent offensive surge makes them the better bet tonight. Pittsburgh has generated over ten high-danger chances in four of their last six games, resulting in 21 goals during that span.

Meanwhile, the Predators continue to struggle despite a busy offseason of roster changes. Their expected goals-for rating of 48.7% is middling, while their actual goals-for percentage sits at a disappointing 38.5%. Armed with improving analytics and a low PDO of 0.979, the Penguins have the upper hand in this clash.

Best Bet: Penguins Moneyline (+126)

NHL Betting Opportunities to Watch

Tonight’s NHL action provides excellent betting opportunities:

• Back the New Jersey Devils to cover the puck line against a defensively weak Columbus Blue Jackets side.
• Take the value on the St. Louis Blues moneyline as their metrics trend upward.
• Support the Pittsburgh Penguins, whose recent offensive improvements make them a strong play against the Nashville Predators.

With these insights, tonight’s games promise excitement for both hockey fans and bettors alike.

*All Odds Courtesy FanDuel