October 17, 2024 at 10:15 PM EDT
The NHL action continues with 11 games today, so make sure to check out the NHL Picks for Thursday 10/17/2024.
Vegas Golden Knights vs Tampa Bay Lightning Prediction NHL Picks 10/17/24
Golden Knights at Lightning at 7 PM ET
The Vegas Golden Knights currently hold a record of 3-1-0 this season following their recent defeat to Washington, which ended with a score of 4-2. In the first period, Vegas managed to equalize the score at one, but subsequently conceded three unanswered goals, leading to their loss. The Golden Knights outperformed Washington in terms of shots, registering 26 compared to Washington’s 22. They achieved a face-off win rate of 45.5% and converted 1 out of 4 power play opportunities. Goals were scored by Eichel and Olofsson, while Hill made 18 saves out of 22 shots faced during the match.
The Tampa Bay Lightning have achieved a 2-0-0 record this season after defeating Vancouver 4-1 in their latest game. They took control of the match with a 3-0 lead early in the third period, which facilitated an effortless victory. The Lightning accumulated 27 shots on goal, secured 45.1% of face-offs, and did not score on five power-play chances. Goals were netted by Cirelli, Hagel, Kucherov, and Point, with Vasilevskiy making 26 saves from 27 shots in the process.
The Pick:
Although the Golden Knights suffered a loss in their latest road game, they began the season with three successive wins. Both teams have shown impressive form in a limited number of games, but I am leaning towards Vegas in this instance. It appears that the Lightning have been performing above their typical standards early in the season, and I expect to see a decline in their performance. Thus, I suggest placing your confidence in the Golden Knights to secure the victory.
Buffalo Sabres vs Columbus Blue Jackets Prediction NHL Picks 10/17/24
Sabres at Blue Jackets at 7 PM ET
On Wednesday, the Sabres took on the Pittsburgh Penguins in a competitive matchup, but their defensive shortcomings proved costly, culminating in a 6-5 overtime loss. They held a 3-1 advantage at the end of the first period, yet allowed the Penguins to stay in the game, which ultimately led to their downfall. JJ Peterka was a standout player, netting two goals during the contest. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen started as the goaltender, making 37 saves out of 43 shots faced. Throughout the season, the Sabres have averaged 2.6 goals per game, while their defense has allowed an average of 3.6 goals per game. The team’s offense is currently ranked 25th in the league, with the defense sitting at 21st.
In their matchup against the Florida Panthers, the Blue Jackets’ offense netted three goals, yet their defense allowed four, leading to their defeat. Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins started the game but struggled, stopping only 18 of the 22 shots he faced. It is evident that the Blue Jackets must enhance their defensive capabilities. The team is currently averaging 3.67 goals scored per game, which is matched by the 3.67 goals they allow. Offensively, they hold the 9th position in the league, while defensively, they rank 23rd.
The Pick:
The Sabres exhibited a lackluster defensive effort in the game, which points to ongoing struggles ahead. The Blue Jackets, averaging 3.67 goals per game, are well-positioned to exploit this vulnerability and should find it easy to increase their scoring. It is expected that the Blue Jackets will score no fewer than four goals, thereby accomplishing their goal. Supporting the Blue Jackets on the money line is a wise choice.
LA Kings vs Montreal Canadiens Prediction NHL Picks 10/17/24
Kings at Canadiens at 7 PM ET
On Wednesday, the Kings’ defensive performance was notably poor, as they managed to score two goals but allowed six, which resulted in their loss. At the end of the first period, they were already down 3-0 and failed to recover from this deficit. Kevin Fiala did score a goal, but it was not sufficient to change the outcome. The team cycled through two goaltenders, neither of whom delivered a strong performance. David Rittich recorded only 10 saves out of 14 shots faced. The Kings currently average 3.25 goals per game, while their defense concedes an average of 4.25 goals. Offensively, they rank 16th in the league, while defensively, they are ranked 29th.
The Canadiens recently competed against the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the match was far from favorable. While the offense succeeded in scoring three goals, the defense’s performance was subpar, allowing six goals, which resulted in a loss. The Penguins surrendered three goals in the third period, yet the Canadiens’ offense could not capitalize, failing to score. Sam Montembeault took to the net, saving 25 out of 30 shots faced. Mike Matheson concluded the game with two assists. This season, the Canadiens are averaging 3.0 goals per game, with their defense permitting 3.25 goals. The offense is currently positioned 19th in the league, while the defense ranks 15th.
The Pick:
The performance of the Kings’ defense in the previous match was subpar, and it is likely that a similar outcome will occur in this game. The Montreal Canadiens are expected to have little difficulty increasing their score significantly. Additionally, the Kings’ offense is anticipated to achieve success as well. It is reasonable to expect that both teams will score a minimum of four goals, which will ultimately be the deciding factor. Therefore, it is advisable to support the Over for a straightforward win.
New Jersey Devils vs Ottawa Senators Prediction NHL Picks 10/17/24
Devils at Senators at 7 PM ET
The New Jersey Devils triumphed over the Utah Hockey Club but faced a loss against the Hurricanes. The team is currently averaging 3.17 goals per game and achieving a 20 percent success rate on power play opportunities. Leading the team in scoring, Paul Cotter has netted 4 goals, Jesper Bratt has provided 5 assists, and Timo Meier has taken 21 shots on goal. Defensively, the Devils are allowing an average of 2.17 goals per game and have successfully killed 93.8 percent of their opponents’ power plays. Jake Allen has allowed only 1 goal from 38 shots, while Jacob Markstrom has given up 11 goals from 115 shots.
The Ottawa Senators suffered a loss to the Canadiens but managed to defeat the Kings. They are averaging four goals per game and scoring on 38.5 percent of their power play opportunities. Tim Stutzle leads the team with three goals, while Brady Tkachuk has recorded four assists, and Thomas Chabot has accumulated twelve shots on goal. On the defensive front, the Senators are allowing four goals per game and successfully killing 63.6 percent of their opponents’ power plays. Linus Ullmark has conceded five goals on 58 shots faced, and Mads Sogaard has allowed four goals on 17 shots.
The Pick:
It is appropriate to consider the advantages of home ice. However, the New Jersey Devils started this season with lofty goals, and they have proven their worth through a larger sample size. The team is performing admirably in all aspects of the game, having won 5 out of their last 6 games against the Senators. The odds are very reasonable. I will place my confidence in the Devils as they continue their successful streak on the road.
Dallas Stars vs Washington Capitals Prediction NHL Picks 10/17/24
Stars at Capitals at 7 PM ET
The Dallas Stars secured victories against both the Kraken and the Sharks. Currently, the team is averaging 2.75 goals per game and converting 7.7 percent of their power play chances. Mason Marchment is the leading scorer for Dallas with 2 goals, while Logan Stankoven contributes significantly with 5 assists, and Thomas Harley has recorded 14 shots on goal. On the defensive front, the Stars are permitting only 1.25 goals per game and successfully neutralizing 92.9 percent of their opponents’ power plays. Jake Oettinger has conceded 5 goals from 97 shots faced, whereas Casey DeSmith has not allowed any goals on 25 shots.
The Washington Capitals suffered a loss to the Devils but managed to defeat the Golden Knights. They are averaging 3.5 goals per game and scoring on 33.3 percent of their power play opportunities. Tom Wilson is the top scorer for Washington with 2 goals, while Alex Ovechkin has provided 3 assists, and Connor McMichael has recorded 7 shots on goal. On the defensive front, the Capitals are allowing 3.5 goals per game and successfully killing 87.5 percent of their opponents’ power plays. Charlie Lindgren has faced 32 shots, allowing 4 goals, while Logan Thompson has faced 26 shots, conceding 2 goals.
The Pick:
The Stars have achieved victory in 11 of their last 16 matches when favored. Meanwhile, the Washington Capitals still need to demonstrate their capabilities, having lost 10 of their last 15 contests as underdogs. Additionally, the Stars have secured five consecutive wins against the Capitals and have triumphed in 8 of their last 10 games overall. The odds are quite reasonable. I anticipate the Stars will continue their strong performance with a significant win on the road.
Vancouver Canucks vs Florida Panthers Prediction NHL Picks 10/17/24
Canucks at Panthers at 7 PM ET
The Vancouver Canucks enter this matchup seeking to recover from a recent 4-1 defeat to the Lightning, which has left them with a record of 0-1-2 for the season. Brock Boeser and Conor Garland lead the team with 3 points each, comprising 2 goals and 1 assist. Meanwhile, J.T. Miller and Nils Hoglander have contributed 2 points apiece, featuring 1 goal and 1 assist. Additionally, Jake DeBrusk and Quinn Hughes have each recorded 2 assists thus far. In goal, Kevin Lankinen holds a record of 0-0-1, boasting a 1.85 goals-against average and a .935 save percentage, while Arturs Silovs has a record of 0-1-1, with a 4.50 goals-against average and a .827 save percentage.
The Florida Panthers approach this contest with the intention of extending their winning streak, having secured back-to-back victories, including a 4-3 win against Columbus in their most recent outing. Sam Reinhart stands out with a team-leading 8 points, consisting of 4 goals and 4 assists. Sam Bennett and Anton Lundell follow closely, each contributing 5 points with 3 goals and 2 assists. Furthermore, Evan Rodrigues has tallied 3 points, which include 1 goal and 2 assists, while Eetu Luostarinen has scored 2 goals. Both Nate Schmidt and Gustav Forsling have contributed with 1 goal and 1 assist each. In goal, Sergei Bobrovsky has a record of 2-1, accompanied by a 3.02 GAA and a .894 save percentage, while Spencer Knight has a 1-1 record with a 3.55 GAA and a .891 save percentage for the season.
The Pick:
I have reservations about the combination of Silovs and Lankinen as goaltenders for Vancouver. I believe that Florida will demonstrate their strength in this matchup, showcasing the qualities that make them the reigning champions. I am backing Florida in this duel.
New York Rangers vs Detroit Red Wings Prediction NHL Picks 10/17/24
Rangers at Red Wings at 7:30 PM ET
The New York Rangers experienced a defeat against the Utah Hockey Club but secured a victory over the Red Wings. Currently, the Rangers are averaging five goals per game and converting 20 percent of their power play chances. Chris Kreider is the team’s leading scorer with three goals, while Artemi Panarin has contributed five assists, and Vincent Trocheck has recorded 11 shots on goal. On the defensive front, the Rangers are permitting an average of 2.33 goals per game and successfully neutralizing 90.9 percent of their opponents’ power plays. Igor Shesterkin has conceded seven goals from 89 shots faced.
The Detroit Red Wings secured a victory against the Predators but suffered a defeat to the Rangers. Currently, the team averages 2.33 goals per game and converts 9.1 percent of their power play chances. Alex DeBrincat is the leading scorer for Detroit with 2 goals, while Lucas Raymond contributes with 3 assists, and JT Compher has recorded 9 shots on goal. On the defensive side, the Red Wings permit an average of 3.33 goals per game and successfully kill 80 percent of their opponents’ power plays. Cam Talbot has conceded 2 goals from 56 shots faced, whereas Ville Husso has allowed 4 goals from 14 shots.
The Pick:
In their recent matchups, the Rangers have emerged victorious in 7 of the last 9 games against the Red Wings. Impressively, four of these wins were by a margin of two goals or greater. The Red Wings have struggled significantly at both ends of the rink during their last three games, making it difficult to have confidence in their performance against stronger opponents. The betting line is quite appealing. I anticipate that the Rangers will secure another win against the Red Wings, this time while playing on the road.
Edmonton Oilers vs Nashville Predators Prediction NHL Picks 10/17/24
Oilers at Predators at 8 PM ET
The Edmonton Oilers have begun the season with a record of 1-3-0, having recently defeated the Flyers 4-3 in an overtime match. The team initially fell behind 2-0 and later 3-2, but they successfully mounted comebacks to tie the game and force overtime, where they secured the win shortly after the extra period commenced. In terms of performance metrics, the Oilers outshot the Flyers 31-30, achieved a face-off success rate of 59.1%, and did not score on four power-play chances. Goals for Edmonton were netted by Brown, Draisaitl, Henrique, and Bouchard, while Skinner made 27 saves against 30 shots on goal.
The Nashville Predators are currently 0-3-0 this season after their latest game, in which they lost to Seattle with a score of 7-3. The Predators fell behind 2-0 early in the contest but managed to tie the game at three late in the second period. However, they were unable to maintain their performance, allowing four goals in the third period, which sealed their defeat. In terms of performance metrics, Nashville was outshot 35-33, secured 58.7% of face-offs, and did not score on either of their power play chances. Goals were contributed by McCarron, Novak, and Skjei, while Saros recorded 28 saves from 34 shots faced.
The Pick:
The Predators conceded four goals in the third period during their defeat against Seattle, bringing their total to 14 goals allowed over the course of three games. While Edmonton has not performed significantly better, they did manage to secure an overtime victory in their most recent match. Both teams have had a disappointing start to the season; however, I am going to support Nashville in this matchup. The Predators possess considerable talent, and I believe they are capable of recovering against a faltering Edmonton team. I recommend backing Nashville in this clash.
New York Islanders vs St. Louis Blues Prediction NHL Picks 10/17/24
Islanders at Blues at 8 PM ET
After suffering defeats in their initial two games of the season, the Islanders displayed a marked improvement in their latest outing. They achieved an impressive offensive performance, scoring six goals against the Colorado Avalanche and winning by a four-goal margin. Brock Nelson stood out with two goals, and it is crucial for him to sustain this momentum in future games. In goal, Ilya Sorokin made 32 saves out of 34 shots faced. The Islanders currently average 3.33 goals per game, with their defense conceding an equal number of points per game. The offensive unit ranks 13th, while the defensive unit is ranked 16th.
The Blues are currently facing challenges as they approach this game, having suffered two consecutive losses. In their previous match against the Vegas Golden Knights, they fell short with a score of 4-3, and in their most recent encounter with the Minnesota Wild, they lost 4-1, with Mathieu Joseph being the sole scorer for the team. Jordan Binnington was in goal but struggled, managing to save only 23 of the 26 shots he faced. The team’s offensive output stands at an average of 3.0 goals per game, while their defense is conceding an average of 3.5 goals. Offensively, they are ranked 19th in the league, and defensively, they hold the 18th position.
The Pick:
The Islanders demonstrated their offensive prowess by scoring six goals in their previous match, and they are expected to face little difficulty in penetrating the Blues’ defense, which appears to be vulnerable once more. It is anticipated that the Islanders will net a minimum of four goals, which should suffice for the visiting team to secure a victory. Support the Islanders in this matchup.
San Jose Sharks vs Chicago Blackhawks Prediction NHL Picks 10/17/24
Sharks at Blackhawks at 8:30 PM ET
The San Jose Sharks currently hold a record of 0-1-2 this season following their recent defeat to the Dallas team, which concluded with a score of 3-2 in a shootout. The Sharks initially took the lead at 1-0 and later at 2-1 but were unable to maintain either advantage, ultimately succumbing in the shootout. In terms of statistics, San Jose was outshot 38-27, achieved a faceoff win percentage of 47.4%, and failed to convert on three power play opportunities. Goals for San Jose were scored by Dellandrea and Toffoli, while Blackwood made an impressive 36 saves out of 38 shots faced.
The Chicago Blackhawks have begun the season with a record of 1-2-1 after suffering a 3-1 loss to Calgary in their most recent match. The team managed to equalize late in the first period, but they could not secure any additional goals, resulting in the defeat. In the game, the Blackhawks outshot their opponents 32 to 27, achieved a face-off win rate of 48.5%, and were unsuccessful on both of their power play attempts. Foligno was responsible for Chicago’s only goal, while Mrazek recorded 24 saves from 26 shots faced.
The Pick:
The Sharks have scored merely two goals in their last two outings, and similarly, the Chicago team has tallied two goals or fewer in three of their first four games. While the Blackhawks did earn a victory against a struggling Edmonton team on their recent road trip, their offensive consistency remains in question. With both teams exhibiting difficulties in scoring and the goaltenders performing well, I would suggest the Under in this contest.
Philadelphia Flyers vs Seattle Kraken Prediction NHL Picks 10/17/24
Flyers at Kraken at 10 PM ET
The Philadelphia Flyers are looking to bounce back after suffering a 4-3 overtime loss to the Oilers in their last outing. Travis Konecny and Matvei Michkov have each tallied 3 points, featuring 2 goals and 1 assist, while Joel Farabee and Bobby Brink have both registered 1 goal and 2 assists for their respective 3 points. Morgan Frost currently leads the team with 3 assists this season, and Cam York along with Tyson Foerster have each contributed 1 goal. In terms of goaltending, Samuel Ersson has a record of 1-0-1, with a goals-against average of 2.86 and a save percentage of .895, while Ivan Fedotov stands at 0-1, with a 5.12 goals-against average and a .839 save percentage.
The Seattle Kraken enter this matchup aiming to capitalize on their recent 7-3 victory against the Nashville Predators. Jordan Eberle is at the forefront for the Kraken, boasting 4 points, which include a team-leading 3 goals and an assist. Jared McCann also contributes with 4 points, comprising 2 goals and 2 assists. Ryker Evans has recorded 1 goal and 2 assists for a total of 3 points, while five other players on the team have each notched a goal and an assist this season. In goal, Joey Daccord has achieved a record of 2-0, with a goals-against average of 3.37 and a save percentage of .901. Conversely, Philipp Grubauer has yet to secure a win, holding a record of 0-2, a GAA of 2.59, and a save percentage of .896.
The Pick:
I believe the Kraken possess a superior advantage in goaltending and are returning to their home arena. This aspect is significant, particularly since the home team triumphed in both encounters between these two teams last season. Additionally, I perceive that Philadelphia is experiencing some difficulties following its collapse against Edmonton in the latter stages of that match. Therefore, I am confident that the Kraken will secure a victory.