One NHL bet that you can't miss out on tonight
The Battle of Alberta wasted no time in taking center stage during the second round of the NHL’s Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Calgary Flames took early control in its series against the Edmonton Oilers by winning Game 1 at home by the score of 9-6. While 15 goals is going to be hard to top, […]
The Battle of Alberta wasted no time in taking center stage during the second round of the NHL’s Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Calgary Flames took early control in its series against the Edmonton Oilers by winning Game 1 at home by the score of 9-6. While 15 goals is going to be hard to top, tonight’s Game 2 provides a unique angle for sports bettors.
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Best Bet: Oilers at Flames OVER 6.5 (-115), per BetMGM
Goaltending was optional in Game 1 in the Great White North. Edmonton’s Mike Smith was pulled in the first period after allowing three goals on 10 shots. Smith gave way to Mikko Koskinen who didn’t fare much better, finishing the game with 32 saves on 37 shots (86.5%).
Calgary’s Jacob Markstrom had a stellar regular season in net as he was named a 2022 Vezina Finalist – an award given to the NHL’s top goalie. However, facing the likes of Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and the potent Oilers offense is nearly impossible to prepare for. While Markstom played the full 60 minutes, he still let six pucks get past him on just 28 shots (78.6%).
Of the 15 goals in Game 1, just one came via the power play, which is surprising considering the Oilers (3rd) and Flames (10th) are effective on special teams.
With six goals on just 28 shots on net the Oilers had an effective night at the rink even in a losing effort. The McDavid-Draisaitl duo has been deadly this postseason, having combined for a whopping 30 points in just EIGHT games. Anticipate Oilers head coach Jay Woodcroft to put an emphasis on getting pucks on net with Markstrom likely struggling in the confidence department.
The Flames will get another look at Smith as Woodcroft announced the team is sticking with its starter despite an ugly performance in Game 1.
Calgary's offense hasn't been met with much resistance against Edmonton during the regular season and, if Game 1 is any indication, their approach appears to be sound. The Oilers’ offense is not slowing down any time soon so long as McDavid is leading the attack. Though Draisaitl is playing on a sprained ankle, he looked to be moving fairly well on Wednesday.
Typically, when looking to bet an over in the NHL Playoffs, it’s important to find a weakness in a goaltender, or a trend in offensive production. This game happens to have both which is more than enough to make tonight’s best bet.
Featured image via Sergei Belski – USA TODAY Sports
