Free NHL Picks For Today, Friday 11/29/2024

This season, the Philadelphia Flyers have a record of 10-10-3 after securing a 3-2 overtime victory against Nashville. The team was behind 2-1 at the conclusion of the first period but managed to score late in regulation to push the game into overtime, where they ultimately triumphed. The Flyers were outshot by Nashville, with a total of 27 shots against their 23, won 40.4% of face-offs, and failed to capitalize on their only power play opportunity. Couturier, Frost, and Laughton each contributed a goal, while Kolosov recorded 25 saves out of 27 shots.

The Pick:

The Philadelphia team has secured two wins in their last three outings, with all three games requiring extra time to determine a winner. Although the Rangers have encountered challenges in scoring during their last four losses, I have reservations regarding the Flyers' goaltending situation. Consequently, I suggest considering the Over for this game.

Chicago Blackhawks vs Minnesota Wild Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Blackhawks at Wild at 2 PM ET

The Chicago Blackhawks faced a loss to the Flyers but triumphed over the Stars. At present, the team maintains an average of 2.5 goals per game and achieves a power play success rate of 21.8 percent. Ryan Donato stands out as the top scorer for Chicago with 8 goals, while Connor Bedard has provided 12 assists, and Taylor Hall has taken 45 shots on goal. In the net, Petr Mrazek has surrendered 42 goals on 479 shots, and Arvid Soderblom has given up 14 goals on 190 shots.

The Minnesota Wild suffered a defeat against the Jets but managed to defeat the Sabres. They are averaging 3.23 goals per game and achieving a power play conversion rate of 19.7 percent. Kirill Kaprizov leads the team with 14 goals, Marco Rossi has contributed 11 assists, and Matt Boldy has recorded 78 shots on goal. In goal, Filip Gustavsson has allowed 35 goals from 493 shots faced, while Marc-Andre Fleury has given up 14 goals from 146 shots.

The Pick:

In their recent history, the Wild have triumphed in 9 of the last 10 games against the Blackhawks, establishing themselves as the superior team. The Chicago Blackhawks do not possess the offensive strength necessary to challenge high-caliber teams, as evidenced by their scoring 2 or fewer goals in 9 of their last 10 contests against the Wild. Consequently, I am inclined to favor the Wild and will take the puck line to increase the potential return.

Tampa Bay Lightning vs Nashville Predators Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Lightning at Predators at 3 PM ET

During the latest encounter with the Washington Capitals, the Lightning scored four goals, but their defense allowed five goals, which ultimately led to their defeat. Brayden Point stood out by scoring three goals in the game. The Lightning's offense averages 3.81 goals per game, while their defense surrenders 3.09 goals per game. The team’s offensive unit is ranked 4th in the league, in contrast to the defense, which is ranked 18th.

The Predators recently faced the Philadelphia Flyers in their last game, where they were narrowly defeated with a final score of 3-2. The team managed to score two goals, but this was insufficient to secure a victory. Roman Josi was among the scorers for the Predators. In goal, Juuse Saros recorded 20 saves out of 23 shots faced. This season, the Predators have an average of 2.35 goals scored per game, while their defensive unit has conceded an average of 3.18 goals per game. The offense is currently ranked 32nd in the league, and the defense holds the 24th position.

The Pick:

The Lightning's current scoring average stands at 3.81 goals per game, suggesting they will have little trouble enhancing their score in this game. In contrast, the Predators are likely to find it challenging to ignite their offensive efforts, which will enable the Lightning to accomplish their objective. It is wise to back the Lightning on the money line.

Calgary Flames vs Columbus Blue Jackets Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Flames at Blue Jackets at 3 PM ET

In their most recent match, the Flames competed against the Detroit Red Wings, managing to score just a single goal, which resulted in a 2-1 defeat. Goaltender Dan Vlader delivered a commendable performance, stopping 25 of the 27 shots directed at him; however, the lack of offensive support proved detrimental. Throughout the season, the Flames have been averaging 2.56 goals per game, while their defense has allowed an average of 2.69 goals. Currently, the offense ranks 26th in the league, in contrast to the defense, which holds a ranking of 7th.

The Blue Jackets are determined to rebound after suffering a loss in their previous game. They netted three goals, but this was not enough, as their defense allowed four goals against. Zach Werenski recorded a goal and an assist in the match. Elvis Merzlikins managed to save 19 out of 23 shots he faced. The team is currently averaging 3.43 goals per game, while their defense is yielding 3.62 goals. They hold the 7th position in offensive rankings, but their defense is struggling at 29th.

The Pick:

The Blue Jackets currently have an average of 3.43 goals per game, yet their offensive performance is expected to face significant challenges in this matchup. Anticipate the Blue Jackets to initiate their offense with a strong start, which should enable them to maintain control throughout the game. Go with the Blue Jackets on the money line for a favorable outcome.

New York Islanders vs Washington Capitals Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Islanders at Capitals at 3 PM ET

After their latest game against the Boston Bruins, in which they lost 6-3, the New York Islanders' record stands at 8-10-5 for the season. The Islanders demonstrated resilience by overcoming two separate deficits; however, they ultimately surrendered three goals in the third period, resulting in the defeat. Statistically, New York outperformed Boston in shots on goal, totaling 24 compared to Boston's 21, and they won 50.9% of face-offs, although they were unsuccessful on their only power play attempt. Goals were scored by Nelson, who netted two, and Tsyplakov, while Sorokin managed to stop 15 of the 20 shots directed at him.

The Washington Capitals currently hold a record of 15-6-1 this season, following their recent victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning, which concluded with a score of 5-4. Despite falling behind at various points in the game—trailing 2-0, 3-2, and 4-3—the Capitals managed to secure the win by scoring two goals in the final moments of the third period. In terms of statistics, Washington outshot Tampa Bay 32 to 28, achieved a face-off win percentage of 63.8%, and converted 1 of 3 power play opportunities. The goals for Washington were scored by Mangiapane, Protas, Strome, Wilson, and Carlson, while goaltender Lindgren successfully saved 25 of the 28 shots he faced.

The Pick:

The Islanders have recorded five losses in their past six games, with a scoring average of just 2.48 goals per game this season. This New York team is struggling offensively, prompting me to predict a favorable outcome for the Capitals in their home arena.

Vancouver Canucks vs Buffalo Sabres Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Canucks at Sabres at 3 PM ET

The Vancouver Canucks secured a victory against the Bruins but suffered a defeat to the Penguins. Currently, the Canucks are averaging 3.19 goals per game and converting 21 percent of their power play chances. Elias Pettersson is the team's leading scorer with 7 goals, while Quinn Hughes has contributed 18 assists, and Conor Garland has recorded 45 shots on goal. In terms of goaltending, Arturs Silovs has conceded 25 goals from 163 shots faced, whereas Kevin Lankinen has allowed 38 goals from 417 shots.

The Buffalo Sabres triumphed over the Sharks but fell to the Wild in their recent matchups. The team is averaging 3.09 goals per game and has a power play conversion rate of 16.9 percent. Tage Thompson stands out as the leading scorer with 11 goals, while Alex Tuch has provided 14 assists, and Rasmus Dahlin has amassed 67 shots on goal. In goal, Devon Levi has surrendered 24 goals on 185 shots, and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has allowed 36 goals on 417 shots faced.

The Pick:

The Canucks have secured victories in their last three encounters with the Sabres. Nevertheless, the Sabres are currently exhibiting their finest performance in a considerable period. If there is a match that can demonstrate the legitimacy of this team, it is undoubtedly this home game. This serves as a pivotal moment for the Sabres, and I anticipate an elevated level of energy in the arena. I am inclined to take advantage of the favorable odds with the Sabres playing at home.

New Jersey Devils vs Detroit Red Wings Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Devils at Red Wings at 3 PM ET

The New Jersey Devils are aiming to recover from their recent 3-0 defeat against the Blues. Jesper Bratt leads the team with 28 points, comprising 10 goals and 18 assists. Jack Hughes follows closely with 25 points, including 8 goals and 17 assists, while Nico Hischier contributes 24 points, featuring a team-high of 13 goals alongside 11 assists. Additionally, Stefan Noesen has accumulated 19 points with 10 goals and 9 assists, and Timo Meier has recorded 15 points with 7 goals and 8 assists. Dougie Hamilton has tallied 17 points, primarily through 14 assists, while Paul Cotter has achieved 12 points with 7 goals and 5 assists. In goal, Jacob Markstrom holds a record of 10-6-1, with a goals-against average of 2.54 and a save percentage of .904, while Jake Allen has a record of 5-2-1, boasting a 2.26 GAA and a .921 save percentage this season.

The Detroit Red Wings approach this contest with the intention of capitalizing on their recent success, having achieved back-to-back victories, including a 2-1 overtime win against Calgary in their last game. Lucas Raymond stands out with a team-leading 22 points, featuring 16 assists, while Alex DeBrincat follows closely with 19 points, which include 9 goals and 10 assists. Dylan Larkin has also made significant contributions, totaling 18 points with a team-high of 12 goals. In the goaltending department, Ville Husso has struggled, recording a 0-2 record with a 4.94 GAA and an .811 save percentage. Conversely, Cam Talbot has a more favorable record of 6-4-2, with a GAA of 2.47 and a .921 save percentage, while Alex Lyon holds a record of 4-4, with a GAA of 2.74 and a .911 save percentage.

The Pick:

While I recognize the reasons for the Devils being favored, I found their performance in the defeat against St. Louis to be less than satisfactory. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the home team has triumphed in the last four meetings between these two squads. Consequently, I am going to take a chance on Detroit at home, especially with the attractive odds.

Florida Panthers vs Carolina Hurricanes Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Panthers at Hurricanes at 3 PM ET

The Florida Panthers enter this matchup aiming to capitalize on their recent 5-1 victory against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Leading the team in scoring, Sam Reinhart has accumulated 32 points, comprising 17 goals and 15 assists. Sam Bennett follows with 21 points, including 10 goals and 11 assists, while Anton Lundell contributes 16 points with 7 goals and 9 assists. Additionally, Aleksander Barkov has recorded 21 points, featuring 16 assists, and Carter Verhaeghe has tallied 18 points with 6 goals and 12 assists. Matthew Tkachuk also adds to the offense with 16 points, consisting of 5 goals and 11 assists. In goal, Sergei Bobrovsky holds a record of 10-5-1, with a goals-against average of 3.05 and a save percentage of .889, while Spencer Knight has a record of 3-4, a 2.63 GAA, and a .902 save percentage for the season.

The Carolina Hurricanes approach this contest with the intention of extending their momentum following a 4-3 triumph over the New York Rangers in their previous game. Leading the team in scoring is Martin Necas, who has accumulated 37 points, featuring 12 goals and a team-high 25 assists. Andrei Svechnikov contributes 18 points, which includes 8 goals and 10 assists, while Sebastian Aho has tallied 24 points, consisting of 7 goals and 17 assists. In terms of goaltending, Pyotr Kochetkov has achieved a record of 10-2, with a 2.42 GAA and a .904 save percentage. Frederik Andersen has also performed well, holding a 3-1 record with a 1.48 GAA and a .941 save percentage. Spencer Martin's record stands at 3-2-1, with a GAA of 3.33 and a save percentage of .856.

The Pick:

The Hurricanes excel at home by a considerable margin, and I am convinced that Carolina will uphold their home advantage against the Panthers, who are in need of more than merely one victory over Toronto at this time. I favor Carolina in this matchup.

LA Kings vs Anaheim Ducks Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Kings at Ducks at 3:30 PM ET

In their latest encounter, the Kings hosted the Winnipeg Jets and achieved a solid 4-1 victory. Anze Kopitar showcased his skills with a goal and an assist during the match. David Rittch, serving as the goaltender successfully stopped 13 of the 14 shots directed at him. The Kings are currently averaging 3.0 goals per game, with their defense conceding an average of 2.78 goals. The team's offense is ranked 16th in the league, while their defense holds the 9th position.

The Ducks' offensive display was noteworthy in their recent game against the Seattle Kraken, where they scored five goals and won by a three-goal margin. The scoring effort was led by five different players, showcasing the team's depth. Goaltender John Gibson had an exceptional outing, stopping 42 of the 44 shots he encountered. Presently, the Ducks average 2.62 goals per game, with their defense yielding an average of 2.95 goals. In terms of rankings, the offense sits at 25th in the league, while the defense is positioned 12th in the NHL.

The Pick:

Presently, the Ducks are averaging only 2.62 goals per game, which ranks them 25th in the league. It seems improbable that they will enhance their offensive output in this contest. On the other hand, the Kings boast a robust defense that is anticipated to perform exceptionally well. Therefore, a decisive win for the Kings appears likely. It is recommended to back the Kings on the money line.

Seattle Kraken vs San Jose Sharks Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Kraken at Sharks at 3:30 PM ET

The Seattle Kraken head into this game with the intention of recovering from a 5-2 loss to the Anaheim Ducks in their last outing. Jared McCann is the team's leading scorer with 22 points, which includes 9 goals and 13 assists. Jordan Eberle has contributed 11 points, made up of 6 goals and 5 assists. Additionally, Brandon Montour has amassed 15 points, consisting of 7 goals and 8 assists, while Ryker Evans has added 13 points, featuring 3 goals and 10 assists. In goal, Joey Daccord has posted a record of 10-5-1, with a 2.46 GAA and a .916 save percentage this season, while Philipp Grubauer has a record of 1-6, with a 3.11 GAA and a .881 save percentage.

The San Jose Sharks enter this matchup seeking to recover from a recent 4-3 defeat against the Ottawa Senators. Mikael Granlund leads the team with 24 points, comprising 9 goals and 15 assists. Tyler Toffoli follows with 16 points, including 9 goals and 7 assists. William Eklund has accumulated 20 points, featuring 4 goals and 16 assists, while Jake Walman contributes 15 points with 13 assists. In terms of goaltending, Vitek Vanecek holds a record of 2-5-1, with a goals-against average of 3.36 and a save percentage of .899. Meanwhile, Mackenzie Blackwood has a record of 4-8-3, with a 3.14 GAA and a .902 save percentage for the season.

The Pick:

I find it challenging to reach these price points with specific teams such as the Seattle Kraken. While they may not secure victories in every match, betting on underdogs like the Sharks could prove beneficial, particularly at home where they have performed close to a .500 record this season. I believe the value lies with the Sharks and the favorable odds, so I will proceed with that option.

Pittsburgh Penguins vs Boston Bruins Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Penguins at Bruins at 6:30 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Penguins currently hold a record of 8-12-4 following their recent victory over Vancouver, which concluded with a score of 5-4. The team established a commanding 5-1 lead during the second period; however, they faced a challenging third period to secure the win. In terms of statistics, the Penguins were outshot 29 to 23, achieved a face-off win percentage of 64.9%, and converted 1 out of 4 power play opportunities. The goals for Pittsburgh were scored by Hayes, Lizotte, Rakell, and Rust, who netted two goals, while Jarry successfully saved 25 of the 29 shots he faced.

The Boston Bruins have achieved an 11-10-3 record this season after their recent win against the Islanders, which ended with a score of 6-3. The team initially led 2-0 and later 3-2, but required three goals in the third period to secure the victory. In terms of performance metrics, the Bruins were outshot 24 to 21, managed to win 49.1% of face-offs, and did not score during their power play attempts. The goals for the Bruins came from Geekie, Marchand (two goals), Zacha (two goals), and Zadorov, while Korpisalo recorded 21 saves out of 24 shots in the match.

The Pick:

The recent performance of Pittsburgh has been disappointing, as they have lost six of their last eight contests, scoring two goals or fewer in each of those losses. On the other hand, Boston's defensive strategy has been great in their last four games, leading me to believe that they will triumph by a margin of no less than two goals in this encounter.

Winnipeg Jets vs Vegas Golden Knights Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Jets at Golden Knights at 8:30 PM ET

In their most recent match, the Jets encountered the LA Kings and faced significant challenges. The Jets managed to score a solitary goal, while their defense conceded four, resulting in a loss. Gabriel Vilardi contributed to the Kings' tally with a goal. Connor Hellebuyk was the goaltender for the Jets, but his performance fell short, as he saved 29 out of 32 shots faced. Currently, the Jets are averaging 3.91 goals per game, while their defense allows 2.43 goals. Offensively, they rank third in the league, whereas defensively, they hold the second position.

Following their most recent game, the Golden Knights' offense is determined to make a comeback. In their last match against the Colorado Avalanche, they were only able to net a single goal, leading to a 2-1 defeat. The team is currently averaging 3.91 goals per game, with their defense allowing 2.43 goals per game. The offense is ranked 5th in the league, while the defense stands at 14th.

The Pick:

Presently, the Jets' defense concedes 2.43 goals per game, and they are expected to enhance their defensive efforts considerably in this contest. Although the Golden Knights may find the net more than once, it is improbable that they will score more than two goals. This scenario will enable the Jets to emerge victorious. Hence, backing the Jets on the money line is recommended.

Colorado Avalanche vs Dallas Stars Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Avalanche at Stars at 9 PM ET

The Colorado Avalanche's current season record stands at 13-10-0, following their latest win against the Vegas Golden Knights, which they secured in a shootout with a final score of 2-1. The team managed to level the score in the second period and went on to win in the shootout. In terms of performance, the Avalanche outshot the Golden Knights 34 to 19, achieved a face-off win rate of 52%, and did not score on their two power-play attempts. Nichushkin netted the only goal for Colorado, while goaltender Georgiev recorded 18 saves from 19 shots faced.

This season, the Dallas Stars have achieved a record of 13-8-0, but they faced a setback in their latest match against Chicago, losing 6-2. The team fell behind early, allowing the first four goals and failing to mount a comeback. Although the Stars outshot their opponents 27-26 and won 63.5% of face-offs, they were only successful on 1 of 4 power play chances. Blackwell and Duchene contributed to the scoreline, while DeSmith recorded 20 saves out of 26 shots in the defeat.

The Pick:

While Dallas has faced difficulties in their away games this season, they have proven to be formidable when playing at home. The Avalanche, after a rocky start to the season, have managed to regain their footing and are now showcasing a robust style of play. Although it may not be prudent to bet against Dallas in their own venue, I find the current performance of the Colorado squad to be quite appealing. I am going with the Avs.

Edmonton Oilers vs Utah Hockey Club Prediction NHL Picks 11/29/24

Oilers at Utah at 9 PM ET

The Edmonton Oilers faced a loss to the Wild but triumphed over the Rangers. The team is averaging 2.91 goals per game and has a power play conversion rate of 15.8 percent. Leon Draisaitl leads the team with 16 goals, while Connor McDavid has provided 17 assists. Jeff Skinner has taken 61 shots on goal. On the defensive end, Stuart Skinner has surrendered 47 goals on 397 shots, and Calvin Packard has given up 18 goals on 169 shots.

The Utah Hockey Club experienced a defeat against the Maple Leafs but secured a victory over the Canadiens. Currently, the team averages 2.73 goals per game and successfully converts 16.9 percent of their power play chances. Dylan Guenther is the team's leading scorer with 10 goals, while Nick Schmaltz contributes with 17 assists, and Clayton Keller has recorded 50 shots on goal. In terms of goaltending, Connor Ingram has conceded 43 goals from 334 shots faced, whereas Karel Vejmelka has allowed 23 goals on 295 shots.

The Pick:

In their recent performance, Utah has scored two goals or fewer in five of their last eight games, including two shutout losses. The Edmonton Oilers have had a variable season but are beginning to find their rhythm, as evidenced by several overtime wins. It is essential for the Oilers to triumph in this game, given the limited number of winnable matches they can afford to drop. I would back the Oilers to win.