NHL Odds, Picks & Predictions: Monday (11/4)
Hockey season is back and things are already getting exciting at the start of the NHL season. We have just two games on the slate tonight, and we’ll target them both.
Monday's NHL Best Bets
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Los Angeles Kings (+120) at Nashville Predators (-142) | O/U 6 (-118/-102)
Last year, the Kings were one of those teams that could beat you on both sides of the ice. Their offense is packed with playmakers, and their defense is physical.
That hasn't been the case this season; the offense contributes by scoring 3.25 goals per game, with their top lines playing some great hockey. The defense hasn't been as good, allowing 3.25 goals and is 25th in goals against above expected.
The Nashville offense was excellent last year, but that's been their big disappointment this season. At 2.64 goals per, they're struggling to score, but there's optimism with a 53.14 expected goal percentage (eighth). Filip Forsberg continues to be their best forward with 10 points (six goals, four assists), but everyone averages under a point per game. That includes their big acquisitions. Jonathan Marchessault has just two goals coming off a season where he scored 42.
Those defensive struggles from the Kings could help the Predators. They have talented offensive players, they just need a favorable matchup.
Pick: Predators Moneyline (-142)
New Jersey Devils (+112) at Edmonton Oilers (-108) | O/U 6.5 (-108/-112)
The Oilers are mirroring the start of their 2023-24 season. The offense is virtually non-existent, as they only score 2.45 goals per game.
Leon Draisaitl leads the team with 16 points (nine goals, eight assists) and is coming off a three-point night against the Flames with a goal. Zach Hyman doubled up his point total with a goal and an assist. He and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins are struggling, but Jeff Skinner has moved in and is playing well in his first year with the team. These guys need to step up with Connor McDavid out for the next couple of weeks.
Edmonton's offensive performance will depend on which New Jersey team we see. They have not played consistently this season; we are getting games where they dominate puck possession and can shut down their opponent, but we've also seen them get shut down. Plus, their defense gives up a bunch of goals.
They will have Jacob Markstrom in net, who played the previous four seasons in Calgary. He has experience playing against this roster and in this arena. That should help Edmonton, as he's lost eight straight games against them, including the playoffs.
The Oilers have some positive moments after beating Markstrom's old team, and they can continue that tonight.
Pick: Oilers Moneyline (-108)
Make sure to check out our other best bets for Monday: