Welcome back to another day of NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are happening and gives our predictions for each one, breaking down head-to-head and other factors that may play in. We also have a featured game of the day, which is considered must-watch TV. Today’s featured game is between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Nashville Predators. Be sure to check out our earlier NHL predictions for the day.
NHL Predictions
Vegas Golden Knights vs Nashville Predators
Head-to-Head: Golden Knights 1-0 Predators
This feature game tonight has two teams going in opposite directions. Logan Thompson is slated to be the starter, but always check social media for any confirmation on the day of the game. Vegas has lost four straight games and have fallen into third place in the Pacific Division. The offence has dried up in recent games and the team is really feeling the loss of Mark Stone. Could there be some moves in the offing to correct the goal-scoring struggles? The Knights’ goals for has dropped off to 16th in the league and Thompson and Adin Hill have shouldered a lot of the load in goal.
Nashville is currently three points off the second Wild Card spot in the Western Conference heading into Monday’s action. Juuse Saros will likely get the start in goal for the Predators, who have won three straight and four of their last five. The Predators have scored 13 goals in their last three games to keep their Stanley Cup Playoff hopes alive. However, it’s getting to the point where general manager David Poile has to decide if they’re going to buy or sell at the March 3 trade deadline. Filip Forsberg and Roman Josi are likely untouchable, but there are others that could be in play. However, a win here could help the buying.
It’s a tough game to call, but we’ll go off the board with Nashville winning.
Prediction: Predators win 4-3.
Anaheim Ducks vs Chicago Blackhawks
Head-to-Head: Ducks 0-1 Blackhawks
Our final game features another round in the Connor Bedard eliminator as the Anaheim Ducks take on the Chicago Blackhawks. Anaheim will be on the backend of back-to-back games, so Anthony Stolarz should get the start. The Ducks had won three straight prior to Monday’s game, but two games in two days is always a tough task.
Petr Mrazek is the projected starter in goal for the Blackhawks. Chicago lost their last game, 7-3, to the Edmonton Oilers before the All-Star Break. The Blackhawks did beat the Ducks, 3-2, in the first meeting back in November. Chicago is dead-last in goals scored and 23rd in goals against, power play and penalty kill.
The under on the 6.5 number seems like a good play. Chicago should win with the extra rest.
Prediction: Blackhawks win 3-1.
Main Photo: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
