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Free NHL Picks For Today, Monday 12/23/2024
Pick details
December 23, 2024 at 10:05 PM EST
This week in the NHL starts busy with a 13-game slate, and here you can take a look at the NHL Picks for Monday 12/23/2024.
New York Rangers vs New Jersey Devils Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Rangers at Devils at 1 PM ET
The New York Rangers’ record stands at 16-16-1 this season after suffering a 3-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes in their most recent match. The Rangers struck first, scoring just 17 seconds into the game, but could not add any further goals. They were outshot by the Hurricanes, with a total of 31 shots against their 23, and they won 48.1% of the face-offs contested. The Rangers also struggled on the power play, going 0 for 4. Vesey accounted for the team’s only goal, while Shesterkin recorded 28 saves out of 30 shots faced during the game.
This season, the New Jersey Devils have achieved a record of 22-11-3, following their recent 3-0 triumph over the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Devils scored one goal in the second period and two in the third, resulting in a shutout victory. They dominated the shot count, outshooting Pittsburgh 27 to 12, won 51.9% of face-offs, and had a single power play opportunity that did not yield any goals. The scoring for New Jersey came from Hischier, Meier, and Noesen, with Markstrom making 12 saves to maintain the shutout.
The Pick:
In their last five games, New Jersey has won four times, with each of those victories featuring the team allowing one goal or fewer. On the other hand, the Rangers have been notably inconsistent in their performance recently. With the Rangers playing on consecutive days, I am confident that the Devils will win by at least two goals.
Winnipeg Jets vs Toronto Maple Leafs Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Jets at Maple Leafs at 2 PM ET
After defeating Minnesota 5-0 in their latest match, the Winnipeg Jets have improved their season record to 24-10-1. The team showcased a strong performance, scoring twice in the first period, once in the second, and twice in the third, thereby achieving a shutout victory. Winnipeg outshot their opponents 24-19, won 52% of the face-offs, and successfully executed 2 out of 5 power plays. The goals were contributed by Barron, Ehlers, Namestnikov, Perfetti, and Pionk, while Hellebuyck excelled in goal, stopping all 19 shots he encountered.
The Toronto Maple Leafs currently hold a record of 21-11-2 this season, following their recent defeat to the Islanders, which ended with a score of 6-3. Although Toronto managed to narrow the gap to 3-2 during the second period, they conceded three additional goals in the third period, leading to their loss. In terms of statistics, the Maple Leafs were outshot 34 to 29, achieved a face-off win percentage of 35.3%, and did not convert any opportunities on the power play. The team received contributions from McMann and Nylander, who scored two goals, while Woll made 28 saves on 33 shots faced.
The Pick:
In their last four games, Toronto has emerged victorious in three instances, despite allowing six goals to the Islanders in their latest match. The Maple Leafs have accumulated 19 goals during this stretch, indicating a likelihood of offensive action from both teams. Consequently, it would be wise to consider the Over in this scenario.
Montreal Canadiens vs Columbus Blue Jackets Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Canadiens at Blue Jackets at 7 PM ET
The Montreal Canadiens’ current season record stands at 14-16-3, following their decisive 5-1 win against the Red Wings in their latest match. The Canadiens demonstrated their offensive prowess by outshooting Detroit 24 to 21, achieving a face-off win rate of 57.1%, and converting 1 of 5 power play opportunities. Goals were netted by Evans, Gallagher, Heineman, Laine, and Slafkovsky, while Montembeault effectively stopped 20 of the 21 shots directed at him.
This season, the Columbus Blue Jackets have recorded 13-15-6, following a narrow 5-4 overtime loss to the Philadelphia Flyers. In this contest, the Blue Jackets were outshot 30 to 25, managed to win 52.5% of their face-offs, and did not convert on their only power play chance. The team received goals from Marchenko, Olivier, Pyyhtia, and Christiansen, while Merzlikins successfully stopped 25 of the 30 shots directed at him.
The Pick:
The Columbus team has faced significant challenges, suffering defeats in six of their last seven contests and permitting at least four goals in four of their previous five outings. The trajectories of these two teams are markedly different, and although Montreal has struggled on the road, I am confident that the Canadiens will emerge victorious.
Washington Capitals vs Boston Bruins Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Capitals at Bruins at 7 PM ET
Following their win on Sunday, the Capitals may experience some fatigue. They faced the LA Kings and secured a 3-1 victory, highlighted by Aliaksei Protas, who scored two goals during the game. This season, the Capitals have an average of 3.68 goals per game, with their defense allowing 2.58 goals. Their offense is currently ranked second in the league, while their defense holds the fourth position. Furthermore, they average 28.5 shots per game, which ranks them 16th.
The Bruins faced the Buffalo Sabres in their latest game, successfully securing a 3-1 win. David Pastrnak played a pivotal role, finishing the game with two assists. Throughout the current season, the Bruins have been averaging 2.6 goals per game, with their defense conceding an average of 2.58 goals. The team’s offense ranks 28th in the league, while their defense holds the 17th position.
The Pick:
The Capitals boast an impressive average of 3.68 goals per game, suggesting they will have little trouble increasing their score in this encounter. Conversely, the Bruins, with an average of 2.6 goals per game, are anticipated to face considerable obstacles in their offensive performance. It is unlikely that the Bruins will find their footing, while the Capitals are expected to perform effectively. Go with the Capitals.
Philadelphia Flyers vs Pittsburgh Penguins Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Flyers at Penguins at 7 PM ET
In their most recent match, the Flyers competed against the Columbus Blue Jackets and achieved a narrow victory with a score of 5-4. Owen Tippett delivered an impressive performance, contributing one goal and three assists. Additionally, Travis Konecny also recorded three assists during the game. Currently, the Flyers are averaging 3.0 goals per game, while their defense is allowing an average of 3.59 goals. The team’s offensive ranking stands at 17th in the league, whereas their defensive ranking is notably lower at 30th.
The Penguins encountered the New Jersey Devils in their latest game, where they were unable to register any goals and surrendered three, leading to their defeat. Goaltender Tristan Jarry managed to save 25 out of 27 shots faced during the match. This season, the Penguins have an average of 2.97 goals scored per game, contrasted with a defensive average of 3.66 goals allowed. Offensively, the team ranks 18th in the league, while defensively, they are positioned at 32nd.
The Pick:
The Penguins are currently averaging a mere 2.97 goals per game, while the Flyers are slightly ahead with an average of 3.0 goals per game. Both teams are likely to face challenges in this matchup, and it is improbable that either will exceed three goals. Therefore, it is advisable to back the Under, which is expected to be a favorable outcome.
St. Louis Blues vs Detroit Red Wings Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Blues at Red Wings at 7 PM ET
The St. Louis Blues suffered defeats against both the Panthers and the Lightning. Currently, the team averages 2.46 goals per game and converts 15.6 percent of their power play chances into goals. Jordan Kyrou is the team’s leading scorer with 14 goals, while Robert Thomas contributes significantly with 18 assists. Additionally, Dylan Holloway has recorded 78 shots on goal. In terms of goaltending, Jordan Binnington has conceded 72 goals from 689 shots faced, whereas Joel Hofer has allowed 29 goals from 317 shots.
The Detroit Red Wings triumphed over the Flyers but experienced a loss against the Canadiens. The team is averaging 2.64 goals per game and has a power play success rate of 22.7 percent. Alex DeBrincat stands out as the leading scorer with 13 goals, and Lucas Raymond has provided 20 assists. DeBrincat has also taken 87 shots on goal. On the goaltending front, Cam Talbot has allowed 43 goals on 500 shots, while Alex Lyon has given up 32 goals on 301 shots.
The Pick:
The St. Louis Blues are currently in a difficult position, having lost five of their last six games, and their offense has been unable to regain its momentum. On the other hand, the Detroit Red Wings are contending with their own difficulties, yet they have the advantage of home ice, which could be crucial in this evenly matched scenario. Furthermore, the Red Wings have had a successful track record against the Blues in their latest meetings. Back the home team.
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Florida Panthers Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Lightning at Panthers at 7 PM ET
The Tampa Bay Lightning are determined to rebound from their loss to the Panthers in their next encounter. Heading into this match, Nikita Kucherov leads the team with 49 points, which includes a team-high of 14 goals and 35 assists. Brandon Hagel has contributed 37 points, consisting of 15 goals and 22 assists, while Anthony Cirelli has tallied 28 points, including 15 assists. Brayden Point has amassed 38 points, with 21 goals and 17 assists, and Victor Hedman has recorded 25 points, featuring 21 assists. In terms of goaltending, Andrei Vasilevskiy has a record of 15 wins, 9 losses, and 1 overtime loss, with a goals-against average of 2.38 and a save percentage of .913. Jonas Johansson, on the other hand, has a record of 3 wins, 1 loss, and 1 overtime loss, with a goals-against average of 3.84 and a save percentage of .882 for the season.
The Florida Panthers enter this game with the objective of achieving a sweep in their home-and-home series against the opposing team, having secured a 4-2 victory in the first encounter on Sunday. As they gear up for the clash with the Lightning, Sam Reinhart stands out with a team-leading 43 points, which include 20 goals and 23 assists. Additionally, Sam Bennett has amassed 27 points, featuring 13 goals and 14 assists, while Anton Lundell has recorded 22 points, consisting of 8 goals and 14 assists. In goal, Sergei Bobrovsky boasts a record of 16-6-1, a 2.79 GAA, and a .896 save percentage, whereas Spencer Knight has a 5-5-1 record, a GAA of 2.85, and a .890 save percentage this season.
The Pick:
I believe that the Lightning’s optimal chance for securing a victory in these two games was during their home game on Sunday. Now, as we move to Sunrise, it is evident that the Panthers have been performing well, while the Lightning have not been as successful in away games this season. Furthermore, Florida has an advantage in goal, having achieved a win with Spencer Knight on Sunday, which opens the possibility for Sergei Bobrovsky to start in this matchup. The Lightning, on the other hand, will likely select either Vasilevskiy or Johansson as their goaltender. Given these circumstances, I am inclined to support the Panthers for a sweep.
Buffalo Sabres vs New York Islanders Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Sabres at Islanders at 7:30 PM ET
The Buffalo Sabres approach this contest with the objective of breaking their losing streak, having suffered a 3-1 loss to the Boston Bruins in their last outing. Leading the team in scoring is Alex Tuch, who has amassed 25 points, including 9 goals and 16 assists. Tage Thompson matches this total with 25 points, highlighted by a team-leading 16 goals. JJ Peterka contributes 24 points, consisting of 10 goals and 14 assists, while Rasmus Dahlin has recorded 19 points, featuring 6 goals and 13 assists. In terms of goaltending, Devon Levi has a record of 2-6, with a 3.97 GAA and an .876 save percentage. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen has an 8-11-3 record, with a 3.12 GAA and an .892 save percentage this season. James Reimer’s record stands at 1-2-1, with a 2.45 GAA and a .902 save percentage.
The New York Islanders are set to take the ice, looking to extend their momentum following a 6-3 win against Toronto in their previous game. Anders Lee stands out as the top scorer for the Islanders, having tallied 27 points, which include 13 goals and 14 assists. Kyle Palmieri is also a key contributor, with 24 points made up of 11 goals and 13 assists. In goal, Ilya Sorokin has achieved a record of 10 wins, 10 losses, and 4 overtime losses, along with a goals-against average of 2.82 and a save percentage of .903. Semyon Varlamov’s performance this season includes 3 wins, 4 losses, and 3 overtime losses, with a GAA of 2.89 and a save percentage of .889.
The Pick:
The Sabres have been unable to establish a solid performance, and as a result, I will not be allocating any of my resources to them until they demonstrate improvement. Although the Islanders have had their share of ups and downs, the Sabres have consistently underperformed this season, and I do not foresee a change in their trajectory. I would rather support the Islanders at a reasonable rate.
Chicago Blackhawks vs Minnesota Wild Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Blackhawks at Wild at 8 PM ET
During the latest encounter with the Flames, the Blackhawks scored four goals, but their defense faltered, allowing six goals, which ultimately led to their defeat. Connor Bedard had a notable game, scoring one goal and assisting on two others. Tyler Bertuzzi also excelled, netting two goals and contributing one assist. The Blackhawks are currently averaging 2.56 goals per game, while their defense is surrendering 3.17 goals per game. Offensively, they rank 29th, and defensively, they are placed 24th.
The Wild faced a challenging game against the Winnipeg Jets, resulting in a 5-0 loss. Goaltender Jasper Wallstedt recorded 19 saves from 24 shots faced during the match. At present, the Wild’s offensive performance averages 2.19 goals per game, contrasted by a defensive average of 3.16 goals allowed. The offense ranks 19th in the league, while the defense is notably ranked 6th.
The Pick:
Heading into this game, the Wild’s offensive struggles have become a prominent issue, and they are anticipated to face challenges in establishing their scoring rhythm. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks, despite averaging only 2.56 goals per game, are poised to launch their offense effectively from the outset. This early momentum is expected to be crucial, leading to a successful outcome for Chicago. It is recommended to back the Blackhawks.
Carolina Hurricanes vs Nashville Predators Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Hurricanes at Predators at 8 PM ET
The Carolina Hurricanes secured a win over the Rangers but faced a loss against the Capitals. They are currently averaging 3.52 goals per game and converting 26.4 percent of their power play opportunities. Martin Necas leads the team with 14 goals, while Sebastian Aho has provided 25 assists, and Andrei Svechnikov has taken 105 shots on goal. On the goaltending front, Spencer Martin has allowed 27 goals on 175 shots, and Pyotr Kochetkov has given up 50 goals on 515 shots faced.
The Nashville Predators faced a loss to the Penguins but triumphed over the Kings. They are currently averaging 2.32 goals per game and achieving a power play success rate of 17.4 percent. Jonathan Marchessault leads the team with 10 goals, Filip Forsberg has provided 17 assists, and Roman Josi has taken 88 shots on goal. On the goaltending front, Juuse Saros has allowed 72 goals from 772 shots, while Scott Wedgewood has given up 16 goals on 131 shots faced.
The Pick:
The Predators have recorded 7 of their 10 victories this season at home. However, the value is not commensurate with the risk, and it is fair to state that the Hurricanes are the more competent team. Offensively, the Predators are not a cause for concern, particularly when facing the Hurricanes’ solid defense. If the potential payout were more enticing, I would consider the Predators. Given the current circumstances, I must support the Hurricanes.
Dallas Stars vs Utah Hockey Club Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Stars at Utah at 9 PM ET
The Dallas Stars suffered defeats to the Maple Leafs and the Rangers. The team is averaging 3.16 goals per game and successfully converting 16.4 percent of their power play opportunities. Roope Hintz leads the team with 14 goals, while Matt Duchene has tallied 17 assists, and Wyatt Johnston has amassed 91 shots on goal. In goal, Jake Oettinger has allowed 58 goals from 642 shots faced, while Casey DeSmith has given up 19 goals on 208 shots.
The Utah Hockey Club triumphed over the Wild but fell to the Ducks in their recent matchups. The team maintains an average of 3.03 goals per game and successfully capitalizes on 21.9 percent of their power play opportunities. Leading the team in scoring is Dylan Guenther with 16 goals, followed by Logan Cooley with 22 assists, and Clayton Keller, who has recorded 85 shots on goal. In goal, Connor Ingram has surrendered 43 goals from 334 shots, while Karel Vejmelka has permitted 42 goals from 512 shots faced.
The Pick:
The Utah Hockey Club has demonstrated significant improvement in their performance over the past few weeks, particularly in their offensive play, which has seen a remarkable increase. Earlier this month, the Stars and Utah engaged in a closely contested and competitive match. One could argue convincingly that the Utah Hockey Club presents a valuable opportunity, especially with the favorable odds. Additionally, the Utah Hockey Club has secured victories in their last four games while playing as the underdog. I find this to be a compelling situation.
San Jose Sharks vs Vancouver Canucks Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Sharks at Canucks at 9 PM ET
The San Jose Sharks are looking to rebound following a narrow 3-2 overtime loss to the Edmonton Oilers in their previous game. Leading the team in scoring is Mikael Granlund, who has amassed 32 points, consisting of 11 goals and 21 assists. Tyler Toffoli contributes with 22 points, which include 13 goals and 9 assists. William Eklund has recorded 26 points, with 6 goals and 20 assists, while Jake Walman has tallied 25 points, all from assists. In goal, Vitek Vanecek has a record of 3-8-1, with a GAA of 3.84 and a save percentage of .885. Yaroslav Askarov has achieved a record of 1-0-2, with a GAA of 2.30 and a save percentage of .928, while Alexandar Georgiev stands at 1-2, with a GAA of 3.75 and a save percentage of .869 this season.
The Vancouver Canucks aim to recover from their recent 5-4 overtime defeat against the Ottawa Senators. Quinn Hughes leads the team with 40 points, comprising 8 goals and 32 assists. J.T. Miller has contributed 20 points, including 6 goals and 14 assists. Additionally, Brock Boeser has recorded 21 points with 10 goals and 11 assists, while Conor Garland has amassed 26 points, featuring 8 goals and 18 assists. In goal, Kevin Lankinen holds a record of 14-5-4, with a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.61 and a save percentage of .907. Arturs Silovs has a record of 1-4-1, with a GAA of 4.11 and a save percentage of .847. Furthermore, Thatcher Demko has a record of 1-1-2, with a GAA of 3.18 and a save percentage of .887 this season for the Canucks.
The Pick:
While the Canucks have established themselves as the stronger team this season, the Sharks have shown competitiveness. Additionally, the Canucks have not always excelled in their home games this season. I anticipate that San Jose will be able to engage in a close contest in this game. Therefore, I suggest considering San Jose +1.5.
Anaheim Ducks vs Vegas Golden Knights Prediction NHL Picks 12/23/24
Ducks at Golden Knights at 10 PM ET
After their game on Sunday against the Utah Hockey Club, the Ducks are likely to experience fatigue. In their last match against the Colorado Avalanche, the Ducks scored two goals, but their defense allowed four goals to be scored against them. John Gibson, who was in goal, saved 19 out of 22 shots. This season, the Ducks are averaging 2.42 goals per game, while their defense is permitting 3.06 goals per game. The team’s offense is currently ranked 31st in the league, while the defense is positioned at 17th.
The Golden Knights recently took on the Seattle Kraken, emerging victorious with a score of 6-2. Mark Stone showcased his skills by scoring a goal and providing two assists during the game. Ilya Samsonov demonstrated his prowess in goal, saving 21 out of 23 shots. This season, the Golden Knights have been averaging 3.52 goals per game, whereas their defensive unit has permitted an average of 2.8 goals per game.
The Pick:
The Ducks are currently averaging a mere 2.42 goals per game, indicating significant challenges in generating offensive momentum. In contrast, the Golden Knights boast an average of 3.52 goals per game, suggesting they will face no difficulties in their offensive efforts. Consequently, it is anticipated that the Golden Knights will secure a decisive victory in this matchup. I am backing the Golden Knights on the puck line.
