Free NHL Picks For Today, Thursday 1/9/2025

A busy day in the NHL will take place today as we have a 10-game slate, so make sure not to miss out on the NHL Picks for Thursday 1/9/2025.

Seattle Kraken vs Columbus Blue Jackets Prediction 1/9/25 NHL Picks

Kraken at Blue Jackets at 7 PM ET

This season, the Seattle Kraken’s record stands at 17-21-3 after their recent 3-2 loss to New Jersey. In that contest, the Kraken were outshot by their opponents, with a total of 29 shots against 24. They managed to win 47.4% of the face-offs and converted 1 of their 1 power play chances. Wright and Larsson contributed to the scoring, while Grubauer recorded 26 saves from 29 shots in the defeat.

The Columbus Blue Jackets’ current season record stands at 18-17-6, following their latest shootout win against the Pittsburgh Penguins, which ended with a score of 4-3. In this encounter, the Blue Jackets outshot the Penguins 29 to 23, achieved a face-off win rate of 50.9%, and converted both of their power play chances. Goals were contributed by Fantilli and Voronkov, who scored twice, while goaltender Merzlikins recorded 20 saves from 23 shots faced.

The Pick:

This season, the Kraken have been scoring an average of 2.85 goals per game, with two goals recorded in their last two outings. Meanwhile, Columbus has faced difficulties in defense this year, yet they have consistently scored at least four goals in their last four games. The Blue Jackets are currently in excellent form and excel when playing at home. A win for Columbus appears likely.

Dallas Stars vs Philadelphia Flyers Prediction 1/9/25 NHL Picks

Stars at Flyers at 7 PM ET

With a record of 25-13-1 this season, the Dallas Stars triumphed over the Rangers in their latest game, winning 5-4 in overtime. The Stars demonstrated their offensive prowess by outshooting New York 39 to 26 and securing 50.9% of face-offs. They also excelled in the power play, converting both of their opportunities. The scoring for Dallas came from Benn, Dadonov, Duchene, Robertson, and Harley, while Oettinger recorded 22 saves against 26 shots.

After their recent loss to Toronto, where they were defeated 3-2, the Philadelphia Flyers’ season record stands at 17-19-5. In this contest, the Flyers outperformed the Maple Leafs in shots on goal, totaling 32 compared to Toronto’s 17. They won 46.4% of face-offs but failed to capitalize on four power-play chances. Konecny netted both goals for Philadelphia, and Fedotov managed to stop 14 of the 17 shots directed at him.

The Pick:

The Philadelphia Flyers are currently on a three-game losing streak, with each defeat resulting in exactly two goals scored. This season, they are allowing an average of 3.54 goals per game, and their penalty kill percentage is under 79%. Conversely, the Dallas Stars have established themselves as one of the premier defensive teams in the NHL this season, indicating that the forthcoming match may yield a lower total score. It would be prudent to wager on the Under.

Buffalo Sabres vs Ottawa Senators Prediction 1/9/25 NHL Picks

Sabres at Senators at 7 PM ET

The Buffalo Sabres recently faced the Washington Capitals, emerging victorious in a shootout with a final score of 4-3. JJ Peterka played a pivotal role by providing two assists, and Alex Tuch excelled with two goals to his credit. In goal, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 25 saves out of 28 shots. At present, the Sabres are averaging 3.02 goals per game, while their defense allows an average of 3.39 goals. The team’s offense is currently ranked 15th, in contrast to their defense, which holds the 28th position.

In their latest encounter with the Detroit Red Wings, the Senators scored two goals, yet this was not enough to secure a victory, as their defense allowed three goals, culminating in an overtime loss. Thomas Chabot was notable for scoring one goal and registering five shots on goal. Anton Forsberg took to the net but did not perform at his best, saving 30 out of 33 shots. The Senators currently average 2.92 goals per game, while their defense concedes an average of 2.89 goals. Offensively, they are ranked 21st in the league, while defensively, they hold the 12th position.

The Pick:

Forsberg’s current season has been less than impressive, with an average of 3.03 goals allowed per game. The Senators are managing an average of 2.92 goals per game, which points to a likely struggle in their offensive efforts. The Sabres are projected to score no fewer than three goals and are expected to prevail in this encounter. Back the Sabres here.

Boston Bruins vs Tampa Bay Lightning Prediction 1/9/25 NHL Picks

Bruins at Lightning at 7 PM ET

During the latest encounter with the Edmonton Oilers, the Bruins were unable to establish any momentum, culminating in a 4-0 loss. Jeremy Swayman was in the net and did not perform poorly, yet the Bruins’ defense allowed far too many shots on goal. He managed to save 35 of the 38 shots he faced. At present, the Bruins average 2.58 goals per game, while their defense surrenders 3.14 goals. The offense is currently ranked 29th in the league, with the defense holding the 20th position.

The Lightning faced the Carolina Hurricanes in their latest encounter, securing a 3-2 win. They successfully netted a goal in each of the first three periods, which ultimately determined the outcome of the match. Darren Raddysh recorded two assists during the game. In goal, Andrei Vasilevsky excelled, saving 29 out of 31 shots. The Lightning’s current scoring average stands at 3.68 goals per game, while their defensive unit allows 2.79 goals. Offensively, they rank first in the league, with their defense positioned tenth.

The Pick:

The Bruins’ offensive unit is currently averaging 2.58 goals per game, which is insufficient to compete effectively. In contrast, the Lightning boast an impressive average of 3.68 goals per game, indicating a strong offensive performance. The Bruins are unlikely to find a solution to counter the Lightning’s attack, leading to a predicted victory for the Lightning. Go with the Lightning on the puck line.

Edmonton Oilers vs Pittsburgh Penguins Prediction 1/9/25 NHL Picks

Oilers at Penguins at 7 PM ET

The Edmonton Oilers secured victories against both the Kraken and the Bruins. Currently, the team is averaging 3.3 goals per game and successfully converting 23.8 percent of their power play chances. Leon Draisaitl is the team’s leading scorer with 29 goals, while Connor McDavid contributes significantly with 39 assists. Additionally, Evan Bouchard has recorded 103 shots on goal. In terms of goaltending, Stuart Skinner has conceded 71 goals from 722 shots faced, whereas Calvin Packard has allowed 33 goals on 322 shots.

The Pittsburgh Penguins experienced losses to the Hurricanes and the Blue Jackets. They are averaging 3.02 goals per game and achieving a power play success rate of 26.2 percent. Rickard Rakell stands out as the team’s top scorer with 20 goals, while Sidney Crosby has provided 33 assists. Erik Karlsson has also made a notable impact with 104 shots on goal. On the defensive end, Tristan Jarry has allowed 63 goals on 557 shots, and Alex Nedeljkovic has given up 55 goals on 491 shots faced.

The Pick:

Over the course of the last two meetings, the Oilers have outperformed the Penguins, achieving a cumulative score of 8-0. The Penguins have not triumphed over the Oilers since December 2019. However, it is important to highlight that the Penguins have been steadily improving their performance, which includes three consecutive games that have gone into overtime. Despite the losses in those matches, they have secured points in seven of their last ten games. It seems that the Penguins are on the verge of a breakthrough, making them a compelling choice as underdogs, as long as this positive trend persists. Place a bet on the Penguins with the advantageous odds.

New Jersey Devils vs New York Rangers Prediction 1/9/25 NHL Picks

Devils at Rangers at 7 PM ET

The New Jersey Devils enter this matchup aiming to build on their recent 3-2 victory against the Seattle Kraken, which would elevate their record to 25-15-3 for the season. Jesper Bratt leads the team with 48 points, comprising 14 goals and 34 assists. Jack Hughes also has 48 points, featuring 15 goals and 33 assists, while Nico Hischier contributes 36 points, including a team-high 19 goals alongside 17 assists. In goal, Jacob Markstrom boasts a record of 20-8-2, with a 2.17 goals-against average and a .911 save percentage, whereas Jake Allen holds a record of 5-7-1, with a 2.83 goals-against average and a .901 save percentage this season.

The New York Rangers approach this contest aiming to recover from a narrow 5-4 overtime loss to the Dallas Stars, which has resulted in a season record of 18-20-2. Artemi Panarin stands out with a team-leading 43 points, which includes 16 goals and 27 assists. Alexis Lafreniere has contributed 24 points, with 11 goals and 13 assists. Adam Fox has recorded 30 assists, while Mika Zibanejad has tallied 25 points, featuring 8 goals and 17 assists. Will Cuylle has also made a significant contribution with 24 points, comprising 11 goals and 13 assists. In net, Igor Shesterkin has a record of 11-15-1, with a GAA of 3.10 and a save percentage of .906. Jonathan Quick has posted a record of 6-5-1, with a GAA of 2.98 and a save percentage of .900 this season. Furthermore, Louis Domingue has achieved a record of 1-0, with a GAA of 2.00 and a save percentage of .926.

The Pick:

Without Igor Shesterkin, the Rangers’ goaltending has shown considerable inconsistency. Whenever I choose to give the Rangers the benefit of the doubt, it invariably leads to unfavorable outcomes. On the other hand, the Devils are relatively healthier and have convincingly won both of their meetings with the Rangers this season, outscoring them 10-1. Consequently, I will favor New Jersey in this contest.

Toronto Maple Leafs vs Carolina Hurricanes Prediction 1/9/25 NHL Picks

Maple Leafs at Hurricanes at 7:30 PM ET

During the latest encounter with the Philadelphia Flyers, the Maple Leafs did not display their most commanding performance, yet they secured a 3-2 win. Joseph Woll showcased his skills by saving 30 out of 32 shots. Mitchell Marner played a pivotal role, finishing the game with two assists. Auston Matthews also contributed with one goal and one assist. The Maple Leafs are currently averaging 3.14 goals per game, while their defensive unit allows 2.74 goals. In terms of rankings, the offense stands at 12th in the league, while the defense is ranked 9th.

The Hurricanes faced the Tampa Bay Lightning in their latest game, where they were only able to net two goals, leading to a loss. Jordan Staal had a notable performance, scoring one goal and providing an assist. In goal, Pytor Kochetkov started and made 30 saves out of 33 shots. The Hurricanes are currently averaging 3.34 goals per game, with their defense allowing 2.81 goals per game. Offensively, they rank 6th in the league, while defensively, they hold the 11th position.

The Pick:

The Hurricanes’ offense is currently averaging 3.34 goals per game; however, it is unlikely that they will achieve sufficient offensive output in this matchup to secure a victory. Anticipate that the Maple Leafs will score a minimum of three goals, which should suffice for a win. A final score of 3-2 would not be surprising. Back the Maple Leafs on the money line for this contest.

Colorado Avalanche vs Minnesota Wild Prediction 1/9/25 NHL Picks

Avalanche at Wild at 8 PM ET

The Colorado Avalanche faced a setback against the Blackhawks but triumphed over the Panthers. The team is currently averaging 3.33 goals per game and successfully capitalizes on 22.5 percent of their power play opportunities. Mikko Rantanen stands out as the leading scorer with 24 goals, while Nathan MacKinnon has provided 52 assists. Cale Makar has taken 131 shots on goal. In the net, Alexandar Georgiev has allowed 53 goals on 421 shots, and Justus Annunen has given up 28 goals on 218 shots faced.

The Minnesota Wild achieved victories against the Hurricanes and the Blues. They are currently averaging 3.05 goals per game and converting 19.1 percent of their power play opportunities. Kirill Kaprizov leads the team with 27 goals, while Marco Rossi has tallied 22 assists, and Matt Boldy has amassed 139 shots on goal. In goal, Filip Gustavsson has allowed 63 goals on 811 shots faced, while Marc-Andre Fleury has surrendered 32 goals on 329 shots.

The Pick:

The Minnesota Wild have secured wins in their last four games and are demonstrating significant offensive prowess. They have accumulated 19 goals during this winning streak. Furthermore, the Wild’s home record is 11-8-1. Impressively, they have scored three or more goals in five out of their last six games. Although the Avalanche might be viewed as the favored team, the current form of the Wild presents a compelling value, especially with the favorable odds. I suggest placing your bet on the Wild at this advantageous price.

Anaheim Ducks vs St. Louis Blues Prediction 1/9/25 NHL Picks

Ducks at Blues at 8 PM ET

The Anaheim Ducks enter this matchup seeking to recover from a recent 3-2 overtime defeat against the Calgary Flames, bringing their season record to 17 wins, 18 losses, and 5 overtime losses. Troy Terry is the leading scorer for the Ducks, amassing 33 points through 14 goals and 19 assists. Frank Vatrano follows closely with 23 points, consisting of 11 goals and 12 assists. Ryan Strome also has 23 points, contributing 7 goals and 16 assists, while Alex Killorn has recorded 18 points with 8 goals and 10 assists. In net for Anaheim, Lukas Dostal holds a record of 10 wins, 11 losses, and 3 overtime losses, with a goals-against average of 2.73 and a save percentage of .913. John Gibson has a record of 7 wins, 5 losses, and 2 overtime losses, with a 2.79 GAA and a .914 save percentage this season.

The St. Louis Blues approach this game with the intention of recovering from their previous 6-4 loss to Minnesota. Leading the team is Jordan Kyrou, who has amassed 36 points, including a team-high 18 goals and 18 assists. Pavel Buchnevich contributes significantly with 27 points, consisting of 10 goals and 17 assists. Dylan Holloway has also made an impact with 31 points, which are split between 14 goals and 17 assists, while Colton Parayko has added 23 points, featuring 7 goals and 16 assists. In net, Joel Hofer has achieved an 8-4-1 record, posting a 2.92 GAA and a .901 save percentage, while Jordan Binnington has a record of 11-15-3 with a 2.87 GAA and an .896 save percentage.

The Pick:

In numerous recent games, the Ducks have shown remarkable competitiveness, positioning themselves among the leading teams in the NHL concerning the puck line. It is almost certain that they have often been viewed as underdogs in these situations. I am confident that the Ducks could deliver an unexpected performance against St. Louis. My recommendation is to back the Ducks.

New York Islanders vs Vegas Golden Knights Prediction 1/9/25 NHL Picks

Islanders at Golden Knights at 10 PM ET

The New York Islanders’ current season record stands at 15-18-7, following their latest game in which they defeated Boston 5-4 in overtime. In this encounter, the Islanders outshot their opponents 37 to 30 and achieved a face-off win rate of 51.8%. They did not score during their power play opportunities, finishing at 0-0. The goals for the Islanders came from Horvat (2), Lee (2), and Pulock, while goaltender Sorokin recorded 26 saves out of 30 shots faced.

This season, the Vegas Golden Knights have achieved a record of 28-9-3 after their latest triumph against the Sharks, winning 4-2. The Golden Knights dominated the shot count, outshooting San Jose 42 to 21, and excelled in face-offs with a success rate of 66.7%. They also converted 1 of their 1 power play chances. The goals for Vegas came from Hertl, Olofsson, Stone, and Whitecloud, while Samsonov recorded 19 saves out of 21 shots.

The Pick:

The Golden Knights have an impressive home record of 17 wins and 4 losses this season, whereas the Islanders have struggled on the road with a record of 8 wins, 9 losses, and 5 overtime losses. New York has suffered defeats in three of their last four games and is averaging only 2.65 goals per game this season. Additionally, the Islanders’ penalty kill efficiency stands at a mere 64%. Given these factors, it is difficult to support them in an away game against the formidable Golden Knights. Therefore, I recommend taking Vegas with a -1.5 spread.