Sunday's NHL slate features seven compelling matchups, headlined by a potential playoff preview between the red-hot Colorado Avalanche (7-0-1 in their last eight) and the Dallas Stars, along with a high-stakes Eastern Conference battle between the Oilers and Rangers.
Our NHL best bets and expert picks highlight several intriguing trends, including strong defensive performances shaping the betting landscape, with multiple games projected to go under their totals despite powerful offenses taking the ice.
From the Golden Knights looking to continue their Western Conference dominance against Detroit to the Jets aiming to build on their impressive March performance, today's analysis offers valuable insights for bettors seeking an edge.
NHL best bets
Red Wings vs. Golden Knights betting tips
Vegas enters this matchup as one of the Western Conference's elite teams, bringing their potent offense averaging 3.35 goals per game against a Red Wings defense allowing 3.20 goals per contest.
The Golden Knights' defensive prowess can't be understated - they're only allowing 2.69 goals per game. This stingy defense, anchored by Adin Hill between the pipes, matches up well against Detroit's modest 2.85 goals per game average.
Jack Eichel and Mark Stone lead a Vegas forward group that excels at puck possession and creating high-quality scoring chances. Their quick passing game should find success against Detroit's sometimes vulnerable defense.
The defensive pairing of Shea Theodore and Brayden McNabb has been particularly effective at forcing turnovers and limiting opponents' shooting lanes. This should prove crucial in containing Detroit's offensive threats.
Vegas has shown they can win consistently on the road, and their balanced approach to both ends of the ice makes them a solid choice in this matchup.
Avalanche vs. Stars betting tips
The Stars and Avalanche matchup promises to be an offensive showcase, with both teams displaying remarkable scoring prowess in recent games. Dallas has been particularly explosive, averaging four goals per game in their last 10 outings.
Colorado's home ice advantage can't be overlooked - they've been putting up 3.65 goals per game in their own building. Their current hot streak of 7-0-1 in their last eight games shows they're firing on all cylinders.
Both previous meetings this season went over the total, and there's little reason to expect different today. The Stars have hit the four-goal mark in eight of their last ten games, while the Avalanche have scored at least three in seven of their last ten.
While both teams boast solid defensive units, their offensive firepower simply can't be contained. The Stars' road games have seen them allow 2.88 goals per game, offering opportunities for Colorado's skilled forwards.
The combination of playoff-level intensity, strong offensive momentum from both sides, and the history of high-scoring affairs between these teams makes the over a compelling play.
Kraken vs. Jets betting tips
The Winnipeg Jets have been showcasing exceptional form, recently outplaying one of the league's powerhouses in the Dallas Stars. Their momentum and overall season performance suggest they're primed for a strong showing against the Kraken.
Seattle's inconsistency is a major factor - they haven't strung together three consecutive wins since November. This lack of consistency, particularly against a team of Winnipeg's caliber, is concerning.
The goaltending situation heavily favors the Jets. Whether it's Eric Comrie (who's allowed just six goals in his last four starts) or Connor Hellebuyck (boasting a stellar 1.66 GAA in March), Winnipeg has a clear advantage over Seattle's struggling netminders.
The Kraken's goaltending woes are significant - Joey Daccord has allowed 23 goals in his last six starts, while Philipp Grubauer, recently recalled from the AHL, hasn't inspired confidence this season.
Given the Jets' strong defensive structure and the Kraken's recent tendency to allow three or more goals in seven of their last nine games, Winnipeg should not only win but cover the puck line.