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 the Toronto Maple Leafs vs Tampa Bay Lightning.
NHL Predictions: April 21st including Toronto Maple Leafs vs Tampa Bay Lightning
Vancouver Canucks vs Minnesota Wild
Head-to-Head: Canucks 0-2 Wild
This game is likely going to have some big implications on the playoff picture of the Pacific Division. The Canucks are currently chasing the Los Angeles Kings for third in the Pacific, and will therefore have a big game ahead of them. They will be hoping the third time is the charm against the Wild, as they lost the first two meetings 3-2 each.
Despite Kirill Kaprizov being a force to be reckoned with, expect Thatcher Demko and the improved play of Elias Pettersson and company to push the Canucks over the edge. It will be a tight game, but with this much to play for, the Canucks should squeak out an ever-important win in this one.
Prediction: Canucks win 3-2
Dallas Stars vs Calgary Flames
Head-to-Head: Stars 1-1 Flames
This game, much like the one above in this article, could have some big implications on the Western Conference playoff picture. Dallas is currently sitting in a Wild Card spot, but their hold on that spot is getting looser by the day. As for the Flames, their red hot performances have confirmed their attendance in the chase for the Stanley Cup.
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These two teams have met twice this season, with each of them getting a 4-3 win on the road respectively. This fact likely won’t have an impact, but the trend will almost certainly be broken. Look for Matthew Tkachuk, Johnny Gaudreau, and Jacob Markstrom to continue their fantastic play.
Predictions: Flames win 4-3
Chicago Blackhawks vs Los Angeles Kings
Head-to-Head: Blackhawks 1-1 Kings
Surprisingly enough, given their respective performances this year, these two teams have split the first two meetings. Even though the Blackhawks snagged a win early on, it certainly will not be any sort of premonition of things to come.
The Kings are clinging on to their somewhat dwindling third-place position in the Pacific Division, with the Canucks right on their tail. If they want to make the postseason, this is a must-win. This becomes even more important with a season-ending game against the Canucks. If Anze Kopitar and Phillip Danault can get themselves on the score sheet, this should be a very important two points for the Kings.
Prediction: Kings win 4-1
St Louis Blues vs San Jose Sharks
Head-to-Head: Blues 2-0 Sharks
This is the only game on the docket today that is looking to be a straightforward prediction. The Sharks have been less than good, to put it nicely. In their last 10 games, they have gone 1-5-4, and they really do not deserve any better than that. As for the Blues, they have gone 9-0-1, forcing their will upon everyone they have played.
It would be less than surprising to see Vladimir Tarasenko and Robert Thomas to continue their hot streaks.
Prediction: Blues win 5-2
Toronto Maple Leafs vs Tampa Bay Lightning
Head-to-Head: Leafs 2-1 Lightning
For the featured matchup of the day, we have the Toronto Maple Leafs vs Tampa Bay Lightning. Every game between these two has been exciting, whether it be because it was a nail-biter or because it was a high-scoring affair.
This game is very likely to continue the latter trend, as Jack Campbell and Andrei Vasilevskiy have both been rather lackluster as of late. Look for the goal-scoring threats on each team to have a good night due to this.
Predictions: Leafs win 4-3
