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Top NHL Odds, Picks & Predictions: Wednesday (10/18)

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It's just a slim two-game slate in the NHL tonight, but both games are very intriguing. The action gets underway as the Capitals square off against the up-and-coming Senators, and it concludes with the Penguins taking on the Red Wings. From a betting perspective, I have bets on both games, including an upset winner. Let's dive into my top NHL bets for October 18th and check out my analysis. 

Today's NHL Best Bets

Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook

NHL Betting Record 2023-2024: 4-5 (-1.60 units)

Washington Capitals (+142) vs. Ottawa Senators (-172) | 6.5 (-114/-106)

It took more than six periods for the Capitals to earn the first win of the year, but they finally got it done in a 3-2 shootout effort against the Flames on Monday night. They'll now hit the road for a pair of games, breaking out the passports for contests against the Senators and Canadiens. Puck drop for tonight's game against the Sens is set for 7:00 p.m. ET from the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON. 

I'm going to take a shot with the underdog in this matchup. Many people are anticipating the Senators to snag a playoff spot over the Caps, but I'm not quite there yet with my handicapping. I'll take the plus-money payout that comes with Washington in this individual spot.

For starters, it's confirmed that Joonas Korpisalo will get the nod between the pipes tonight. The 29-year-old hasn't been very sharp over two games this season, going 1-1-0 with a 3.53 GAA and .894 SV%. It was kind of a widely accepted narrative that moving from Columbus would help him recover from a sub-.900 SV% career, but I have different thoughts. Korpisalo still has a youthful defense in front of him, and I think the Caps can take advantage. I'll play the dog in tonight's opener. 

Bet: Washington Capitals Moneyline (+142)

Pittsburgh Penguins (-125) vs. Detroit Red Wings (+104) | 6.5 (-124/+102)

Like the Capitals, the Penguins are also coming off of a win against the Flames most recently. Pittsburgh defeated Calgary 5-2 on Saturday night, marking their second straight victory. Detroit enters this nightcap having won two straight games, defeating the Lightning (6-4) and Blue Jackets (4-0). This Eastern Conference showdown is set for 7:30 p.m. ET from Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, MI. 

It's already confirmed that Ville Husso will get the nod in net for the Wings tonight. Well, the 28-year-old comes into this one at 1-1-0 with a 3.57 GAA and .863 SV%. I'll gladly lay the juice with the Penguins against those numbers - especially considering they're an offensive-minded team. There are still too many question marks to go along with Detroit's roster, like whether some of the depth guys can step up and lead the way. 

Those questions do not exist with Pittsburgh; you could almost argue that they're too top-heavy. However, in a matchup against a Detroit organization that seems to be in hockey limbo, I'll lean on the veteran experience to come away with the win tonight. Give me the Pens on the moneyline as short favorites.

Bet: Pittsburgh Penguins Moneyline (-125)

Make sure to check out our other best bets for Wednesday:


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