NHL Predictions | Maple Leafs, Oilers, Sharks Best Bets Today

NHL Best Bets for Thursday Night

As the NHL season heats up, tonight’s matchups feature some compelling betting opportunities. With teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, San Jose Sharks, and Edmonton Oilers taking the ice, bettors have value plays across the board. Let’s dive into the analysis for each game, focusing on team performance, player stats, and metrics to guide your picks.

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New Jersey Devils vs Toronto Maple Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs are seeking redemption after a three-game losing streak. Despite their recent struggles, Toronto has maintained solid offensive metrics, ranking in the league’s top half in most categories. However, their offense has dipped recently, failing to generate more than five high-danger chances in three of their last five games. Their expected goals-for (eGF) rating has dropped to 47.3%, well below their usual standard.

The New Jersey Devils, meanwhile, have also faced scoring challenges. Over their last three games, the Devils have scored just six goals, with their high-danger chances falling below nine in three straight games. This lack of offensive firepower puts them at a disadvantage, especially on the road.

At +106 odds, there’s value in backing the Leafs to bounce back on home ice. Their offensive metrics suggest positive regression, making them an appealing underdog in this matchup.

Best Bet: Maple Leafs Moneyline (+106)

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San Jose Sharks vs Columbus Blue Jackets

The San Jose Sharks head into Nationwide Arena fresh off a six-goal explosion in their last game. Although the Sharks have struggled for much of the season, their recent metrics hint at sustained offensive improvement. They’ve recorded above-average expected goals-for ratings in three of their last six games and continue to operate below expected levels, suggesting that progression is due.

The Columbus Blue Jackets, despite a hot 6-1-0 record over their last seven games, have struggled analytically. Their expected goals-for rating sits at just 44.9% during this stretch, and they’ve been outplayed in five of their last seven contests. This unsustainable trend makes Columbus vulnerable, especially against a motivated Sharks team.

At +150 odds, the Sharks offer tremendous value as road underdogs, particularly given their recent offensive resurgence.

Best Bet: Sharks Moneyline (+150)

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Edmonton Oilers vs Colorado Avalanche

The Edmonton Oilers are in prime form heading into tonight’s matchup against the Colorado Avalanche. Edmonton is fresh off a 5-3 victory, marking their eighth consecutive game of outplaying their opponents. During this stretch, they’ve averaged an incredible 26.9 scoring chances and 11.3 high-danger chances per game, demonstrating their offensive dominance.

On the other hand, the Avalanche have shown signs of decline. Colorado has outplayed its opponents only once in their last eight games, a stretch that includes five wins. Their imbalance between results and performance suggests looming regression, especially against an Oilers team firing on all cylinders.

At -102 odds, the Oilers present an excellent betting opportunity as they look to extend their strong play against an Avalanche team showing vulnerabilities.

Best Bet: Oilers Moneyline (-102)

*All Odds Courtesy FanDuel