I started the NHL season nicely, going 2-0 to win a unit on opening night. Tonight we have five pretty good games. Let’s crush ‘em!
Canadiens vs. Maple Leafs (7:00)
A storied Canadian rivalry kicks off the season for these two teams. The Habs really struggled last year and although I think they improve this season, they’re still pretty far behind the Leafs. I like Toronto to win this one on the road tonight just as they dominated Montreal last year and I’ll take them for half a unit. I considered their team total, but I like the moneyline better. I’d lean the over, but not enough to bet it.
Penguins vs. Rangers (7:30)
Solid matchup in the Metro Division to start off the NHL on TNT. Just like last year I expect the Rangers to be the far better team in this matchup and I like them to win on the road. I’ll take them for half a unit.
Oilers vs. Jets (10:00)
The Oilers are my pick to win the Stanley Cup this season, coming off their run to Game 7 of the Cup Finals last year, almost coming all the way back. I think they got even better in the offseason and expect them to dominate this year. The Jets aren’t a bad team, but Edmonton absolutely should win this game at home. I’ll take them for a unit.
Canucks vs. Flames (10:00)
Huge mismatch here in the Pacific. Under new coach Rick Tocchet last year, the Canucks, although they had issues with goaltending while their stud Thatcher Demko was out injured, were a spectacular team, winning the division. The Flames were pretty terrible, one of the worst teams in the West. I like Vancouver to win this one, but can’t lay the -215 on them this early in the season. I’ll take the Canucks in regulation for half a unit.
Golden Knights vs. Avalanche (10:00)
Spectacular Western Conference matchup between these two teams that won the Cup in 2022 and 2023. Both of these teams are still very good and should both make the playoffs, but I think they both take a slight step back and don’t see either winning the Stanley Cup. I’d slightly lean Vegas wins this one at home, but not enough to even consider betting on this game in any way. I’ll stay off the best game on the slate.
Game Bets
.5u Maple Leafs ML (-175)
.5u Rangers ML (-136)
1u Oilers ML (-160)
.5u Canucks in regulation (-122)
Record: 3-1 (+0.8 units)
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A Town's Zone 