December 16, 2024 at 10:35 PM EST
We have three NHL games on the schedule for today, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make a profit! Take a look at the NHL Picks for Monday 12/16/2024.
Washington Capitals vs Dallas Stars Prediction NHL Picks 12/16/24
Capitals at Stars at 8 PM ET
During the latest encounter with the Buffalo Sabres, the Washington Capitals secured a win by scoring four goals, resulting in a two-goal advantage. John Carlson showcased his skills with three assists, and Tom Wilson made a notable contribution by scoring two goals. The Capitals are currently averaging 3.96 goals per game, while their defensive unit concedes 2.65 goals per game. The offense holds the second position in the league rankings, and the defense is ranked seventh.
Although the last game against the St. Louis Blues was not particularly noteworthy, the team succeeded in securing a 2-1 win. Goals from Matt Duchene and Mason Marchant were instrumental in leading Dallas to this victory. Jake Oettinger excelled in goal, saving 16 out of 17 shots he encountered. This season, the Stars are averaging 3.24 goals per game, with their defense allowing 2.55 goals per game. The offense ranks 9th in the league, while the defense is positioned 4th.
The Pick:
With an average of 3.96 goals per game, the Capitals are poised to continue their scoring prowess, even against a strong defensive opponent. Although the Stars have shown offensive strength this season, they are anticipated to face challenges in overcoming the Capitals’ defensive unit. As a result, the Capitals are expected to achieve a decisive win. It is recommended to back the Capitals on the money line for a successful wager.
Florida Panthers vs Edmonton Oilers Prediction NHL Picks 12/16/24
Panthers at Oilers at 8:30 PM ET
The Florida Panthers’ current season record stands at 18-11-2, following a 3-0 loss to Calgary in their latest outing. In this shutout, Florida allowed a goal in each of the three periods. The Panthers outperformed Calgary in shots, totaling 32 compared to 27, and dominated face-offs with a success rate of 62.3%. However, they were unable to score during their three power play opportunities. Reinhart was the most active player for Florida, taking four shots on goal, while Knight successfully stopped 24 of the 27 shots directed at him.
This season, the Edmonton Oilers have achieved an 18-10-2 record after their latest triumph against the Vegas team, winning 6-3. Despite being outshot 41 to 34, the Oilers secured 42.4% of the face-offs and successfully completed 1 of their 2 power play chances. The scoring for Edmonton included contributions from Brown, Draisaitl, Hyman, Nugent-Hopkins, Perry, and Skinner, who performed admirably in net, stopping 38 of the 41 shots directed at him.
The Pick:
The Florida team has suffered two successive losses, having been unable to register any points in either game, thus highlighting their urgent requirement for offensive production. Both teams are competing at the upper echelon of their divisions; however, Edmonton is showcasing remarkable hockey skills at this time. It would be prudent to back the Oilers in this contest.
Colorado Avalanche vs Vancouver Canucks Prediction NHL Picks 12/16/24
Avalanche at Canucks at 10:30 PM ET
The Colorado Avalanche secured a victory against the Predators but suffered a defeat to the Utah Hockey Club. Currently, the Avalanche are averaging 3.31 goals per game and converting 24 percent of their power play chances. Mikko Rantanen is the team’s leading scorer with 18 goals, while Nathan MacKinnon has contributed 37 assists, and Cale Makar has recorded 93 shots on goal. In terms of goaltending, Alexandar Georgiev has permitted 53 goals on 421 shots, whereas Justus Annunen has allowed 28 goals on 218 shots faced.
The Vancouver Canucks suffered a defeat against the Bruins but managed to beat the Panthers. At present, the team averages 3.21 goals per game and successfully converts 23.8 percent of their power play opportunities. Jake DeBrusk is the top scorer for Vancouver with 14 goals, while Quinn Hughes has tallied 27 assists, and Conor Garland has amassed 65 shots on goal. Regarding goaltending statistics, Arturs Silovs has allowed 25 goals from 163 shots, and Kevin Lankinen has permitted 53 goals from 603 shots faced.
The Pick:
The Vancouver Canucks are struggling, having lost three of their last four contests and exhibiting considerable defensive vulnerabilities. Their home performance has been less than satisfactory, with only five of their fifteen wins coming at home, while they have found greater success on the road with ten victories. Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche have demonstrated a strong road performance with ten victories and have recently shown marked improvement in their defensive play. The Avalanche have also triumphed in their last four encounters against the Canucks, with most of these matches being decided by a considerable margin. Given the circumstances, the betting line appears fair, and I am inclined to back the Avalanche in this away matchup.