NHL Odds, Picks & Predictions for Friday: Red Wings vs. Blackhawks (2022)
We have a small three-game slate of hockey on Friday with some intriguing matchups as the season continues to get underway. I give out my three best bets for Friday’s NHL slate. And here’s a deeper look at Red Wings vs. Blackhawks.
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Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook
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Top 3 NHL Odds, Picks & Predictions: Friday (10/21)
Detroit Red Wings (-125) @ Chicago Blackhawks (+105) | O/U 6.5 (-105/-115)
The second game features the Central Division’s Chicago Blackhawks and the Atlantic Division’s Detroit Red Wings. While the Red Wings have started the year 2-0-1, their underlying metrics suggest regression is looming.
At 5v5, Detroit ranks just 23rd in the league in expected goals per 60 minutes (xGF/60) and 27th in expected goals against per 60 minutes (xGA/60). Meanwhile, Chicago’s defense has been surprisingly strong and could get even stronger with the possible return of Jake McCabe, a strong stay-at-home defenseman who missed the start of the year with a neck injury.
Backing up this defense is goaltender Alex Stalock, who was outstanding in his season debut against the Vegas Golden Knights as he stopped 36 of 37 shots for a .973 SV%. In his one career start against the Red Wings, Stalock is 1-0 with a .962 SV% while allowing just one goal.
Additionally, the Blackhawks enter this contest on five days of rest, which is an absurdly long time to rest and prepare for an opponent during the season. Over the last 10 meetings between these two clubs, Chicago is 7-3 straight up.
Best Bet: Chicago Blackhawks ML (+105)
Best of luck!
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Tony Sartori is a featured writer at BettingPros. For more from Tony, check out his archive and follow him @tony_sartori.