Free NHL Picks For Today, Thursday 1/30/2025

We have a busy day in the NHL with ten games on tap, so make sure not to miss out on the NHL Picks for Thursday 1/30/2025.

Chicago Blackhawks vs Carolina Hurricanes Prediction 1/30/25 NHL Picks

Blackhawks at Hurricanes at 7 PM ET

The Chicago Blackhawks’ current season record stands at 16-29-5, following their recent 4-1 triumph over the Tampa Bay Lightning. In this encounter, the Blackhawks were outshot by a margin of 35 to 21, managed to win 40.7% of face-offs, and successfully executed 1 out of 2 power play opportunities. The scoring for Chicago included contributions from Bedard, Donato, Slaggert, and Teravainen, while Soderblom demonstrated remarkable skill in goal, blocking 34 of the 35 shots he faced.

This season, the Carolina Hurricanes have achieved a record of 31-16-4 after their decisive 4-0 win against the Rangers in their most recent match. The Hurricanes outperformed New York in shots on goal, totaling 26 compared to 22, and secured 56.4% of face-offs. However, they did not convert on their two power-play chances. Aho, Jarvis, and Svechnikov contributed to the scoring, while Andersen recorded a perfect performance, stopping all 22 shots he encountered.

The Pick:

This season, the Hurricanes boast a strong home record of 19-5-1, in contrast to the Blackhawks, who have managed only 6 wins, 15 losses, and 3 overtime losses on the road. While Chicago did achieve a significant victory over Tampa Bay in their last outing, their road performance has been largely disappointing for the majority of the season. The two teams occupy vastly different positions in the NHL standings, and it seems unlikely that Chicago will excel in back-to-back away games. Thus, I suggest placing a bet on the Hurricanes at -1.5.

Washington Capitals vs Ottawa Senators Prediction 1/30/25 NHL Picks

Capitals at Senators at 7 PM ET

The Washington Capitals currently hold a record of 34-11-5 this season, following their recent victory over Calgary, which ended with a score of 3-1. In this match, the Capitals faced a shooting deficit, being outshot 33 to 23. They managed to win half of the face-offs and converted 1 out of 4 opportunities on the power play. Goals were scored by Dubois, Protas, and Strome, while Thompson excelled in goal, saving 32 of the 33 shots he faced.

The Ottawa Senators have recorded a season tally of 26-20-4, following their recent 3-1 win over Utah. In this encounter, the Senators were outshot by a margin of 35 to 27 and managed to win 47.3% of the face-offs. They were unable to capitalize on their power play chances, finishing 0 for 3. The team’s scoring was led by Giroux, Greig, and Tkachuk, while Merilainen demonstrated remarkable skill in goal, blocking 34 out of 35 shots.

The Pick:

Ottawa has recorded two successive victories and has limited their opponents to two goals or fewer in eight of their last ten encounters. On the other hand, Washington has consistently allowed two goals or fewer for eight consecutive games. It would be smart to take the Under in this matchup.

Winnipeg Jets vs Boston Bruins Prediction 1/30/25 NHL Picks

Jets at Bruins at 7 PM ET

The Jets secured a decisive 4-1 victory in their latest encounter with the Montreal Canadiens. Kyle Connor was a standout player, scoring two goals during the match. In goal, Connor Hellebuyck exhibited exceptional skill, successfully saving 24 out of 25 shots. Currently, the Jets are averaging 3.54 goals per game, while their defense concedes an average of 2.4 goals per game. This performance places their offense at the top of the league rankings, with their defense following closely in second place.

In their latest encounter, the Bruins took on the Buffalo Sabres, scoring two goals but conceding seven, which resulted in a loss. Brad Marchand stood out with a goal during the match. Jeremy Swayman was the goaltender, achieving 26 saves from 32 shots. The Bruins are currently averaging 2.71 goals per game, while their defense is allowing 3.17 goals. The offensive performance ranks 27th in the league, while the defensive performance is ranked 23rd.

The Pick:

The Winnipeg Jets are currently showcasing top-tier hockey, indicating they are on track for another successful performance. The Bruins’ defense has struggled recently, having surrendered seven goals in their last game, which will likely impede their ability to defend effectively in this matchup. It is projected that the Jets will achieve a minimum of five goals, which will be pivotal in determining the outcome of the game. Back the Jets to win.

Minnesota Wild vs Montreal Canadiens Prediction 1/30/25 NHL Picks

Wild at Canadiens at 7 PM ET

Following their game on Wednesday, the Wild are expected to be fatigued. They faced the Toronto Maple Leafs and secured a 3-1 win. Jared Spurgeon had a standout performance, scoring a goal that contributed significantly to the victory. Filip Gustavsson, who had been struggling prior to this match, managed to turn his performance around, which may enhance his confidence going forward. He recorded 32 saves out of 33 shots faced. The Wild’s current average stands at 2.92 goals per game, while their defense allows an average of 2.86 goals per game. The offense ranks 18th in the league, while the defense is positioned 11th.

During the latest encounter with the Winnipeg Jets, the Canadiens recorded just one goal, which ultimately led to their defeat. Goaltender Sam Montembault faced 23 shots, saving 20 of them. The Canadiens’ offense is currently averaging 2.98 goals per game, while their defense allows an average of 3.34 goals. In terms of rankings, the offense stands at 14th place, while the defense is positioned at 26th.

The Pick:

The Canadiens are currently averaging a mere 2.98 goals per game, indicating significant challenges in generating offensive momentum. With fatigued players, the Wild’s offense is also expected to face considerable difficulties in producing scoring opportunities, leading to a likely lower-scoring affair. Consequently, goals will be scarce, and the Under is anticipated to be successful in this matchup.

Los Angeles Kings vs Tampa Bay Lightning Prediction 1/30/25 NHL Picks

Kings at Lightning at 7 PM ET

On Wednesday, the Kings competed against the Florida Panthers, ultimately suffering a defeat with a score of 3-0. Despite registering 29 shots on goal, the Kings were unable to score. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper performed admirably, saving 36 of the 38 shots directed at him. Currently, the Kings average 2.87 goals per game, while their defense concedes an average of 2.51 goals. The team’s offensive performance is ranked 20th in the league, whereas their defensive unit holds a commendable 4th place ranking.

The Lightning faced a setback in their latest encounter with the Chicago Blackhawks, concluding the game with a 4-1 loss. They managed to score first in the initial period, but subsequently allowed two goals each in the second and third periods, which proved to be the decisive factor in their defeat. Brayden Point accounted for the only goal scored by the Lightning. At present, the team averages 3.49 goals per game, while their defensive unit concedes 2.84 goals per game. Despite the offense being ranked second in the league, its recent performance has not met expectations. The defense is currently positioned 11th in the NHL standings.

The Pick:

Throughout the season, the Kings have faced persistent difficulties with their offense, and it is expected that they will struggle to find their scoring touch in this particular game. Meanwhile, the Lightning, who average 3.49 goals per game, are also projected to have trouble igniting their offensive capabilities. It is unlikely that either team will score three goals in this encounter. Thus, backing the Under is a smart choice.

New York Islanders vs Philadelphia Flyers Prediction 1/30/25 NHL Picks

Islanders at Flyers at 7:30 PM ET

The New York Islanders triumphed over the Hurricanes and the Avalanche in recent matchups. The team is currently averaging 2.71 goals per game and successfully capitalizing on 11.9 percent of their power play opportunities. Leading the team in scoring is Anders Lee with 22 goals, while Bo Horvat has provided 20 assists. Noah Dobson has also made a notable impact with 143 shots on goal. On the goaltending front, Semyon Varlamov has conceded 29 goals on 262 shots, and Ilya Sorokin has allowed 91 goals on 959 shots faced.

The Philadelphia Flyers faced a defeat against the Islanders and managed to split their games with the Devils. Currently, the Flyers are averaging 2.9 goals per game and converting 16 percent of their power play chances. Travis Konecny is the team’s leading scorer with 21 goals, while Matvei Michkov has contributed 20 assists, and Owen Tippett has recorded 128 shots on goal. In terms of goaltending, Ivan Fedotov has conceded 44 goals from 367 shots, whereas Samuel Ersson has allowed 73 goals from 661 shots faced.

The Pick:

Recently, the Islanders have won eight out of their last ten games, with one of those victories occurring against the Flyers last week. Their offensive play has seen a marked improvement, allowing them to present themselves as a formidable team. On the other hand, the Philadelphia Flyers are struggling defensively and have scored one goal or fewer in three of their last four matches. The potential absence of Owen Tippett adds to their challenges. Given the Islanders’ current success and the attractive odds, I am prepared to back the Isles here.

Anaheim Ducks vs Calgary Flames Prediction 1/30/25 NHL Picks

Ducks at Flames at 9 PM ET

The Anaheim Ducks secured victories against both the Predators and the Kraken. Currently, the Ducks are averaging 2.54 goals per game and converting 13.2 percent of their power play chances. Troy Terry is the team’s leading scorer with 16 goals, while Ryan Strome contributes significantly with 22 assists. Frank Vatrano has recorded 160 shots on goal. In terms of goaltending, John Gibson has conceded 53 goals from 605 shots, whereas Lukas Dostal has allowed 86 goals from 937 shots faced.

The Calgary Flames experienced losses to the Jets and the Capitals. At present, the team is averaging 2.65 goals per game and achieving a power play success rate of 21.2 percent. Jonathan Huberdeau stands out as the top scorer for Calgary with 19 goals, while MacKenzie Weegar has provided 19 assists, and Mikael Backlund has taken 124 shots on goal. On the goaltending front, Dustin Wolf has allowed 72 goals on 844 shots, and Dan Vladar has given up 66 goals on 577 shots faced.

The Pick:

The Flames have already secured a victory against the Ducks earlier this month, and they have triumphed in eight of their last ten encounters with them. It is evident that the Ducks often struggle offensively, and given their recent performance, they are likely overdue for a better showing. I am inclined to support the Flames on Thursday night, and I will certainly consider the puck line to reduce the cost. Notably, five of the Flames’ eight victories over the Ducks have been by a margin of two goals or more.

Detroit Red Wings vs Edmonton Oilers Prediction 1/30/25 NHL Picks

Red Wings at Oilers at 9 PM ET

The Detroit Red Wings approach this contest with the intention of building on their recent 5-2 triumph over the Los Angeles Kings, thereby enhancing their season record to 24-21-5. Lucas Raymond is the team’s leading scorer with 47 points, which includes 29 assists. Alex DeBrincat has accumulated 36 points, consisting of 19 goals and 17 assists. Dylan Larkin has contributed 38 points, with 18 goals, while Moritz Seider has recorded 26 points, featuring 22 assists. In goal, Ville Husso has a record of 1-5-2, accompanied by a 3.69 GAA and an .866 save percentage. Cam Talbot’s record stands at 10-9-2, with a 2.98 GAA and a .903 save percentage, while Alex Lyon has an 8-5 record, a 2.71 GAA, and a .902 save percentage this season.

The Edmonton Oilers enter this matchup aiming to build on their recent 4-2 victory against the Seattle Kraken, which would enhance their record to 32-15-3 for the season. Leon Draisaitl is the leading scorer for the Oilers, amassing 74 points, comprising a team-high 35 goals and 39 assists. Connor McDavid follows with 65 points, including 20 goals and 45 assists. In goal, Calvin Pickard has achieved a record of 12-4, boasting a 2.50 GAA and an .899 save percentage, while Stuart Skinner holds a record of 19-11-3 with a 2.69 GAA and a .902 save percentage this season.

The Pick:

The Red Wings have indeed excelled in their home games, yet this does not mitigate their current challenges, as they have experienced three consecutive defeats on the road. Their performance away from home is considerably weaker than their home record throughout the season. I expect the Oilers to uphold their home advantage and claim victory in this encounter. I favor the Oilers.

Columbus Blue Jackets vs Vegas Golden Knights Prediction 1/30/25 NHL Picks

Blue Jackets at Golden Knights at 10 PM ET

The Columbus Blue Jackets’ current season record stands at 24-19-7, following their overtime win against Los Angeles, which concluded with a score of 3-2. In this encounter, the Blue Jackets were outshot 33 to 24, managed to win 42.3% of face-offs, and failed to capitalize on their single power play opportunity. Goals were netted by Marchenko, Fabbro, and Werenski, while goaltender Merzlikins recorded 31 saves from 33 shots faced during the match.

After their latest game, in which they fell to Dallas 4-3 in overtime, the Vegas Golden Knights’ season record stands at 31-15-5. In this contest, the Golden Knights registered 28 shots on goal, achieved a face-off win percentage of 52.3%, and converted 1 out of 2 power play opportunities. Goals were netted by Dorofeyev, Eichel, and Hertl, with Hill stopping 24 of the 28 shots he faced.

The Pick:

Although Columbus managed to achieve a win against Los Angeles in their latest encounter, their performance on the road has been less than satisfactory, with a record of 1-3 in their last four away games. Conversely, Vegas has encountered difficulties in recent weeks, failing to capitalize on a strong chance to overcome the Stars in their previous match. Neither team is demonstrating optimal form at this time; however, I see potential value in the Blue Jackets as they face a Vegas team that has been inconsistent. I suggest considering a wager on Columbus, particularly due to the advantageous odds.

San Jose Sharks vs Seattle Kraken Prediction 1/30/25 NHL Picks

Sharks at Kraken at 10:30 PM ET

The San Jose Sharks enter this matchup aiming to capitalize on their recent 2-1 victory against Pittsburgh, seeking to enhance their record to 15-32-6 for the season. Mikael Granlund leads the team with 43 points, comprising 14 goals and 29 assists. Tyler Toffoli follows with 30 points, including 17 goals and 13 assists. Additionally, William Eklund has accumulated 37 points, featuring 10 goals and 27 assists, while Jake Walman has contributed 28 points, primarily through 22 assists. In terms of goaltending, Vitek Vanecek holds a record of 3-8-1 with a 3.84 GAA and an .885 save percentage. Yaroslav Askarov has a record of 3-5-2, with a 3.04 GAA and an .899 save percentage, while Alexandar Georgiev stands at 2-10 with a 4.02 GAA and an .877 save percentage for the current season.

The Seattle Kraken approach this contest aiming to recover from their previous 6-4 loss to Anaheim, which has resulted in a season record of 22-27-3. Jared McCann stands out with a team-leading 38 points, consisting of 14 goals and 24 assists. Brandon Montour contributes 23 points, made up of 8 goals and 15 assists. Jaden Schwartz has recorded 33 points, including 16 goals and 17 assists, while Chandler Stephenson has tallied 35 points, with a notable 27 assists leading the team. In terms of goaltending, Joey Daccord has posted a record of 17-11-2, with a 2.43 GAA and a .917 save percentage. In contrast, Philipp Grubauer has a record of 5-14-1, with a GAA of 3.76 and a save percentage of .870 this season.

The Pick:

The Sharks have not been performing well in terms of victories lately, particularly before their recent win against Pittsburgh. Despite this, the history of this matchup tends to favor the underdog, with the Sharks having won their last three contests against this team. I am inclined to support the Sharks, given the value associated with the positive odds in this scenario. I will pick San Jose.