October 9, 2024 at 10:15 PM EDT
We have five NHL games on tap for today, and here you can check out the NHL Picks for Wednesday 10/9/2024.
Toronto Maple Leafs vs Montreal Canadiens Prediction NHL Picks 10/9/24
Maple Leafs at Canadiens at 7 PM ET
Toronto’s preseason performance this year resulted in a 4-2 record, featuring two wins each against Montreal and Detroit. Despite starting with two losses to Ottawa, the Maple Leafs successfully turned their fortunes around, ending the preseason with four straight wins.
This year, Montreal recorded a preseason record of 2-4, achieving victories against New Jersey and Philadelphia. The Canadiens started the preseason strong with two consecutive wins but subsequently suffered four losses, managing to score two goals or fewer in three of those four games.
The Pick:
As the new season begins, the Toronto Maple Leafs are faced with significant expectations, which is typical for this period. After coming close to defeating the Bruins in the first round of the playoffs last year, the team is determined to enhance their performance this season. On the other hand, the Montreal Canadiens had a disappointing 2023-24 season, yet they possess several players who can generate excitement. I foresee this game being quite dynamic, with ample scoring chances for both teams. Considering the questions surrounding Woll’s role in goal for Toronto, I am going to back the Over in this contest.
New York Rangers vs Pittsburgh Penguins Prediction NHL Picks 10/9/24
Rangers at Penguins at 7:30 PM ET
The Rangers have maintained a similar team composition compared to prior seasons, although the losses of Barclay Goodrow and Alex Wennberg have affected their depth. Still, they are genuine contenders for the championship, with the majority of their core intact. At 23 years old, Alexis Lafreniere is nearing star status, Igor Shesterkin is recognized as one of the premier goalies in the league, and Kaapo Kakko seems ready for a significant breakout season. Furthermore, Mika Zibanejad and Vincent Trocheck consistently perform at high levels.
The Penguins have not significantly altered their roster since last season, apart from the departure of Reilly Smith, and have strengthened their team by acquiring Anthony Beauvillier, Sebastian Aho, Kevin Hayes, and Matt Grzelcyk. The duo of Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin continues to be a formidable force, while Erik Karlsson has been performing at a high level over the last two years. The goaltending tandem of Tristan Jarry and Alex Nedeljkovic is also quite dependable and capable of managing various challenges effectively. Thus, it would be hasty to rule out the Penguins, as they could still contend for a playoff spot if circumstances unfold favorably.
The Pick:
In the most recent ten encounters between the Rangers and Penguins, seven have resulted in six or more goals. The average number of goals scored in these ten matches stands at 6.4. Both teams possess the offensive capabilities to deliver an exciting performance from the outset. Given the historical trends, I will opt for the Over in this captivating season opener.
Colorado Avalanche vs Vegas Golden Knights Prediction NHL Picks 10/9/24
Avalanche at Golden Knights at 10 PM ET
The Avalanche’s offensive capabilities appear promising, as evidenced by their impressive 50-25-7 record from the previous season. Their offensive performance was exceptional last year, and indications suggest they are poised for another strong showing this season. Nathan MacKinnon emerged as a standout player, concluding the last season with 51 goals and 89 assists, and he continues to demonstrate his prowess this season.
The Golden Knights have undergone substantial changes this season, following last year’s record of 45 wins, 29 losses, and 8 overtime losses. The team will miss Jonathan Marchessault, who scored 42 goals last season and has signed with the Nashville Predators. In addition, both Chandler Stephenson and Michael Amadio, who combined for 30 goals last year, have left for other teams. Nevertheless, the addition of Tomas Hertl is a positive development, and he will be essential for the team’s performance this season.
The Pick:
The defensive performance of Colorado was a significant concern in the previous season, and it appears that similar challenges will persist. The Vegas team is likely to excel in accumulating goals, which will be a crucial factor in this matchup. Colorado is expected to face considerable difficulties in establishing an effective offensive strategy, while Vegas is poised to secure a victory. It is advisable to back the Golden Knights on the money line.
Winnipeg Jets vs Edmonton Oilers Prediction NHL Picks 10/9/24
Jets at Oilers at 10 PM ET
The Jets wrapped up the previous season with a commendable record of 52-24-6; however, they were eliminated in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs. In the aftermath of this defeat, Rick Bowness chose to retire, resulting in Scott Arniel, who has been an associate coach for the last few seasons, taking over the head coaching position. Fortunately for the Jets, they continue to boast a roster filled with talent, including Connor Hellebuyck, who is beginning the first year of his seven-year contract. Additionally, Mark Scheifele, who finished last season with 72 points, is anticipated to have a significant impact this year.
Last year, the Oilers were merely one win away from clinching the Stanley Cup, but they ultimately lost in Game 7, necessitating a fresh start. Fortunately for the Oilers, their lineup remains largely unchanged from the previous season. Notable players including Adam Henrique, Mattias Janmark, Corey Perry, Connor Brown, Troy Stecher, and Calvin Pickard have re-signed with new contracts, fostering hope for a successful campaign this year. With Stuart Skinner stepping in as the starting goaltender, the team will rely heavily on his contributions throughout the season.
The Pick:
Skinner is the primary goaltender, and he is expected to deliver an outstanding performance in this match. The Jets’ offensive unit will face significant challenges in generating scoring opportunities, which will ultimately be a decisive factor in the outcome. Additionally, the Oilers’ offense is unlikely to achieve a high-scoring game. It is anticipated that neither team will exceed three goals, resulting in a final score that remains Under the total.
Calgary Flames vs Vancouver Canucks Prediction NHL Picks 10/9/24
Flames at Canucks at 10 PM ET
As the Calgary Flames prepare for the 2024-25 season, they seek to move past a lackluster 2023-24 campaign, which saw them achieve a record of 38-39-5 and miss the playoffs for the second year in a row. Nazem Kadri is back, having topped the team with 75 points last season, including a leading 46 assists. Yegor Sharangovich also shone brightly, netting a team-high 31 goals. Nevertheless, Calgary will require considerable assistance to advance in what is projected to be another rebuilding phase.
The Vancouver Canucks enter the 2024-25 season with aspirations of maintaining their positive trajectory following a successful campaign that concluded with a record of 50-23-9. This achievement marked the first time in franchise history that they secured the Pacific Division title, their first division championship since the 2012-13 season. In the playoffs, the Canucks triumphed over the Nashville Predators in six games during the first round, only to be eliminated by the Edmonton Oilers, the eventual Stanley Cup runners-up, in a hard-fought seven-game series. Notably, Brock Boeser enjoyed a standout season, netting 40 goals, while JT Miller amassed 109 points. Elias Pettersson remains in excellent form and is anticipated to have a resurgence this year. Additionally, the Canucks have strengthened their forward lines by acquiring Jake DeBrusk, Danton Heinen, and Daniel Sprong.
The Pick:
In this scenario, I believe the odds offered for the Canucks are overly generous. Although Vancouver is justifiably favored at home, the cost is considerable, particularly given the absence of their top goaltender, which could be detrimental. Thus, I favor the Calgary Flames in this duel.