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 Toronto Maple Leafs.
NHL Predictions
Buffalo Sabres vs Washington Capitals
Head to Head: Sabres 0 – 0 Capitals
Our first game on the NHL Predictions is a crucial game. With two points on the line, the Buffalo Sabres take on the Washington Capitals. Both are on the outside looking in and currently have the same amount of points.
Washington enters the game playing the night before, whereas Buffalo will have rested legs. Alex Tuch has returned for the Sabres and came up large with two goals last game. One player that has turned heads for the Capitals is Rasmus Sandin. Sandin has eight points in four games, with three being multi-point games. One key factor to watch for will be special teams’ play. The Sabres have the 4th ranked powerplay going up against Washington 6th ranked penalty kill. It’ll be a tight contest and a playoff-type feel.
Prediction: Sabres defeat Capitals 3-2
Minnesota Wild vs St Louis Blues
Head to Head: Wild 1 – 0 Blues
Our next game on the NHL Predictions is a Central Division showdown. The Minnesota Wild take on the St Louis Blues. Minnesota is sitting in prime playoff position and the Blues are plummeting.
Even without superstar Kirill Kaprizov, the Wild have found ways to score goals. In their last three games, they’ve scored four goals twice and five once. Currently sitting in second place in the division, fighting for seeding is part of the grind. Tonight’s matchup is a nationally televised game on TNT.
Prediction: Wild defeat Blues 5-2
New York Islanders vs Anaheim Ducks
Head to Head: Islanders 1 – 0 Ducks
Our next game on the NHL Predictions is a rematch from earlier in the year. The New York Islanders travel to California to take on the Anaheim Ducks. New York put up a touchdown and an extra point on the Ducks last meeting.
New York is fighting for every point. They currently occupy the wild card spot for the playoffs. Mathew Barzal still remains out, but that has not slowed them down. New York is entering the second of a back-to-back scenario. With Ilya Sorokin likely playing against a more stout Los Angeles Kings team, a goaltending duel still lies ahead.
Anaheim is poor defensively, but one man that has stood tall is John Gibson. He had a monster February making three 50+ save performances. He is 2-1-2 in March with a .929 save percentage. He won’t spoil the Islanders victory, but he will make them earn it.
Prediction: Islanders defeat Ducks 4-1
Colorado Avalanche vs Toronto Maple Leafs
Head to Head: Avalanche 0-0 Maple Leafs
Our featured game on the NHL Predictions is a heavy-weight battle. The Colorado Avalanche continue their road trip as they take on the Toronto Maple Leafs. This has the makings of a great game and a glorious atmosphere.
More injury news has plagued the Avalanche. Artturi Lehkonen suffered a broken finger in the last game and will miss time. In addition, captain Gabriel Landeskog has not suited up yet. Despite all that, Colorado has been on a heater. They’ve won three of their last five games. Sure it has not been against playoff calibre talent, but given the way, the year has gone for them it’s fine. Build momentum and get healthy for the playoffs.
Toronto is still without Ryan O’Rielly, but they are playing well. Matt Murray has returned to the crease which is a good sign. Despite their last loss, they are coming off two very impressive wins over playoff calibre teams.
Special teams could be a factor. Colorado and Toronto have the 5th and 3rd best power-play units. However, Both are middle of the pack on the penalty kill. The star power for each club is on full display tonight.
Prediction: Maple Leafs defeat Avalanche 4-3
Main Photo: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports
