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 Colorado Avalanche and the Winnipeg Jets. Be sure to check out our other NHL predictions for Friday.
NHL Predictions
Los Angeles Kings vs New York Islanders
Head-to-Head: Kings 0-0 Islanders
Our first game in this set of NHL Predictions has the Los Angeles Kings taking on the New York Islanders. Jonathan Quick will likely get the start for the Kings, but always check online before deciding on your fantasy lineup. Los Angeles has lost two straight games, but has the ninth-ranked offence and the second-best power play in the league. The Kings are tied for second with the Edmonton Oilers in the Pacific Division. LA’s defence (23rd) and penalty kill (24th) have struggled in recent games.
Ilya Sorokin likely draws the start in goal for the Isles, but that is unconfirmed. New York comes into the game with wins in three of their last give games. The Islanders look like a brand-new team since getting Bo Horvat via trade. New York is in the first wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. Brock Nelson and others will need to step up with Mathew Barzal out of the lineup.
This is a tough one to call, but the Islanders should be able to pull this one off.
Prediction: Islanders win 4-2.
Colorado Avalanche vs Winnipeg Jets
Head-to-Head: Avalanche 0-2 Jets
Out featured game of our NHL Predictions is a Central Division matchup. Winnipeg has beaten Colorado in the first two meetings of the season. Connor Hellebuyck is slated to be the starter in net for the Jets. Winnipeg has lost three of its last five games, but is capable of turning that around with its defence. The Jets have the fourth-best scoring defence and is second on the penalty kill. Goals have been a problem with Winnipeg only scoring two or more in the last three defeats.
Alexandar Georgiev is the projected starter, but Colorado will be in the first of back-to-back games in this one. It’s a big weekend as the Avalanche take on the Jets and the Calgary Flames on back-to-back nights. The Flames are only one point behind the Avalanche for the final wild card spot in the west. Colorado has won four of its last five, including three straight games. The Avalanche offence has scored 15 goals across those four victories.
Colorado has seemingly found a way to keep going despite the loss of Cale Makar. It will get a test against the Winnipeg defence, but Colorado should win in a pivotal game.
Main photo by: : Terrence Lee-USA TODAY Sports
