Welcome back to the return 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 matchups 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 the Toronto Maple Leafs vs Montreal Canadiens. Be sure to check out more NHL predictions in the coming days as the 2024-25 season starts.
NHL Predictions
Toronto Maple Leafs vs Montreal Canadiens
Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
TV: Sportsnet; ESPN+
Our first and featured game is the next installment of the old rivalry. Sam Montembeault is the expected starter for the Habs. However, always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. Montreal had designs on making its way up the standings. However, injuries to Patrik Laine and David Reinbacher may put that on hold. There is still a lot of young talent on the Canadiens roster. It just needs a little bit of time to develop.
Toronto will likely go with Joseph Woll in between the pipes. This is a new era on Maple Leafs hockey as Craig Berube is the new head coach. The pressure is always on the franchise as it tries to finally realize its potential. Auston Matthews is looking to have another mammoth season. However, Mitch Marner and John Tavares are looking for big campaigns in a contract season.
For a prop, we like William Nylander as a +145 any time goal scorer via Bet MGM. The Leafs are on a mission, but the Habs always play them tough. Despite this, Toronto picks up the win.
Prediction: Maple Leafs win 4-2.
New York Rangers vs Pittsburgh Penguins
Time: 7:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
TV: TNT
Our next game is a battle of Metropolitan Division battle between the New York Rangers and Pittsburgh Penguins. New York will go with Igor Shesterkin in goal and he’s trying to cash in on a big contract. The Blueshirts are a team that’s also under a ton of pressure. Players like Mika Zibenajad, Aretmi Panarin and others are looking to reach the Stanley Cup Final. However, they’ve come up short the last few seasons.
Pittsburgh is trying to return to the post-season after missing the last two seasons. Tristan Jarry likely draws the start for the Pens. Sidney Crosby just inked a major extension, but players like Erik Karlsson need bounce-back seasons. General manager Kyle Dubas has been trying to address this team’s needs. However, some work may need to be done.
We like Chris Kreider at +1200 for the first goal scorer for the Rangers via Bet MGM. Pittsburgh has improved, but New York wants to prove it’s a team to beat in the East.
Prediction: Rangers win 3-1.
Calgary Flames vs Vancouver Canucks
Time: 10 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
TV: Sportsnet; ESPN+
We have a Pacific Division battle between the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks. Dustin Wolf is the projected starter for the Flames in this one. This team will deal with plenty of emotion after the loss of former star Johnny Gaudreau.
Vancouver is another team under pressure as it looks to continue success under Rick Tocchet. Thatcher Demko is still out and that means Kevin Lankinen will likely be the man in between the pipes.
Take Brock Boeser on Bet365 on getting the over on +2.5 shots for this one. The Canucks may not have their top goalie, but their offence should carry them through.
Prediction: Canucks win 4-2.
Colorado Avalanche vs Vegas Golden Knights
Time: 10 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
TV: TNT
Our final game has the Colorado Avalanche facing the Vegas Golden Knights. Alexandar Georgiev is looking to shake off a shaky Stanley Cup Playoff run.
Vegas is expected to go with Adin Hill in goal for this one. The Knights saw a lot of firepower in Chandler Stephenson and Jonathan Marchessault depart for other Western Conference teams.
We like Cale Makar hitting the over on 1.5 points at +145 in Bet365 for our prop bet. Take Colorado in this one.
Prediction: Avalanche win 4-3.
Main photo by: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
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