Free NHL Picks For Today, Friday 10/18/2024

Even though we have just three NHL games on tap for today, that doesn’t mean we can’t get a profit, so make sure to read the NHL Picks for Friday 10/18/2024. 

Carolina Hurricanes vs Pittsburgh Penguins Prediction NHL Picks 10/18/24

Hurricanes at Penguins at 7 PM ET

The Carolina Hurricanes currently hold a record of 1-1-0 for the season, following their recent victory over New Jersey with a score of 4-2. After falling behind 1-0 early in the second period, Carolina responded by scoring three consecutive goals to secure the win. The Hurricanes outperformed New Jersey in shots on goal, totaling 31 compared to 26, achieved a face-off win percentage of 55.6%, and had one unsuccessful power play opportunity. Goals were scored by Aho, Blake, Jarvis, and Gostisbehere, while Kochetkov made 24 saves on 26 shots faced during the match.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have achieved a record of 3-2-0 this season, following their recent overtime victory against Buffalo, which ended with a score of 6-5. The Penguins faced a deficit of 3-1 after the first period and were down 5-4 late in the third period. However, they managed to score a goal with less than a minute left, leading to their win in overtime. In terms of performance, Pittsburgh outshot Buffalo 43-33, won 62.1% of face-offs, and converted 2 of 5 power play opportunities. The scoring efforts were led by Crosby, Malkin, O’Connor, Puljujarvi, Rakell, and Rust, while Blomqvist made 26 saves out of 28 shots faced.

The Pick:

The Penguins have exceeded my expectations in terms of offensive performance this season; however, Carolina boasts a strong defensive lineup. I believe Pittsburgh holds the upper hand in this matchup, as they have participated in more games at this point in the season. Therefore, I predict the Penguins will secure a victory on their home ice.

San Jose Sharks vs Winnipeg Jets Prediction NHL Picks 10/18/24

Sharks at Jets at 8 PM ET

The San Jose Sharks experienced defeats against both the Stars and the Blackhawks. Currently, the team is averaging 2 goals per game and converting 9.1 percent of their power play chances. Tyler Toffoli is the leading scorer for San Jose with 3 goals, while Mikael Granlund contributes with 3 assists, and William Eklund has recorded 11 shots on goal. On the defensive side, the Sharks are conceding an average of 3.25 goals per game and successfully killing 88.9 percent of their opponents’ power plays. Mackenzie Blackwood has surrendered 7 goals from 78 shots faced, whereas Vitek Vanecek has allowed 5 goals from 56 shots.

The Winnipeg Jets have emerged victorious against both the Blackhawks and the Wild. They are averaging 3.33 goals per game and have a power play conversion rate of 42.9 percent. Mark Scheifele leads the team with 4 goals, while Josh Morrissey has contributed 4 assists, and Kyle Connor has recorded 12 shots on goal. On the defensive side, the Jets are allowing only 0.67 goals per game and are effectively killing 100 percent of their opponents’ power plays. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has surrendered 2 goals on 83 shots faced.

The Pick:

The Winnipeg Jets have initiated the season with an impressive defensive record, conceding less than one goal per game and facing an average of 27.7 shots per game. While three games constitute a relatively small sample, the figures are significant. Presently, the Jets are recognized as the leading defensive team in the league. Coupled with the Sharks’ offensive struggles from last season, I find the Jets to be a favorable choice. I suggest placing a bet on the Jets and considering the point line to optimize the odds.

Anaheim Ducks vs Colorado Avalanche Prediction NHL Picks 10/18/24

Ducks at Avalanche at 9 PM ET

In their latest encounter with the Utah Hockey Club, the Ducks managed to clinch a 5-4 victory after overtime. Leo Carlsson played a pivotal role, recording both a goal and an assist. Lukas Dostal, who started as the goaltender, made 26 saves out of 30 shots faced. It is essential for the goaltending to improve moving forward. The Ducks are currently averaging 2.67 goals per game, while their defense allows 2.33 goals per game. The offense is positioned 23rd in the league rankings, in contrast to the defense, which ranks 7th.

In the recent match against the Boston Bruins, the offensive unit managed to net three goals; however, the defensive line conceded five goals, resulting in a loss. Cale Makar delivered an impressive performance, contributing one goal and two assists. Throughout the season, the Avalanche are averaging 3.25 goals per game, while their defense is allowing an average of 6.25 goals. The offense currently holds the 14th position in the league rankings, whereas the defense is positioned at 32nd.

The Pick:

The Avalanche’s defensive performance this season has been severely lacking, and this pattern is anticipated to continue. On the other hand, the Ducks’ defense has been solid, surrendering only 2.33 goals per game. This sets the stage for the Avalanche’s offense to succeed in this contest. The game is likely to conclude with a score of 4-1 or 4-2. Therefore, it is wise to place your support behind the Ducks on the money line for a successful wager.