With just a couple of games left, there are still some playoff spots and seeding to settle. Let's break down a couple of games and give you our best NHL bets for Saturday, April 12th.
Saturday's NHL Best Bets
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Utah Hockey Club (+110) at Dallas Stars (-130) | O/U 6.5 (-115/-105)
It wasn't too long ago we were talking about the Stars being one of the hottest teams in the league, but they are stumbling down the stretch.
They had an opportunity to be a serious contender for the top seed in the Western Conference and even win the Presidents’ Trophy, but losing to Winnipeg on Thursday dashed those aspirations. They’ve earned only two points in four games.
Dallas’ blueline is a big problem that could become a concern during the playoffs. It doesn't help that they are missing two important defensemen. Miro Heiskanen will likely be back if Dallas makes the second round, while Nils Lundkvist will miss the remainder of the season. Over their last 11 games, Dallas has allowed 36.1 shots on goal per game, the most in that time.
Utah wasn't good enough to make the playoffs, but they are playing well down the stretch, going 6-3-2, and they even beat Winnipeg. The offense has been great during the span, ranking 10th in goals scored per game (3.36).
Utah could generate shots against the Stars’ blueline, but Dallas’ offense could counter-attack their offense and turn this into a high-scoring game.
Pick: Over 6.5 Goals (-115)
Winnipeg Jets (-310) at Chicago Blackhawks (+250) | O/U 5.5 (-125/+105)
Barring the Jets losing the next three games and the Stars winning their three games, the Jets should lock up the top seed in the Western Conference. They have looked dominant for most of the season, and they should finish the season near the top of most categories.
This could be the year Connor Hellebuyck solidifies himself as not only the best goalie in the league but also one of the best players. He should win the Vezina Trophy for the second straight year, but he could also win the Hart Trophy, becoming only the eighth goalie to do so.
Do not be surprised if Hellebuyck doesn't play in this matchup, as Winnipeg might save him for Sunday night against the Oilers. Chicago will finish with one of the worst records again (currently second-last ahead of just San Jose).
It doesn't feel like Chicago is getting any better in Year 2 with Connor Bedard, and we've seen a slight regression from the former No. 1 overall draft pick. He's coming into this game tied with his point total from last year (61), but he has played in 11 more games and doesn't lead the team in goals or assists.
Even if Hellebuyck isn't in the net, the Jets are a far better team and could win this game.
Pick: Jets -1.5 (-115)
