NHL Best Bets Today: Expert NHL Picks for 05/03/2025

The Stars return home for Game 7 with momentum and history on their side. Dallas holds a 2-1 home record in this series, and coach Pete DeBoer brings a perfect 8-0 record in Game 7 situations.

Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger has been stellar in elimination games with a 2-1 record, 1.54 GAA and .956 save percentage in Game 7s throughout his career. Despite allowing seven goals in Game 6, Oettinger made 41 saves and kept Dallas competitive.

The potential returns of key players Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson provide a significant boost. Robertson led the team in goals during the regular season, while Heiskanen strengthens the defensive corps.

This matchup historically favors Dallas, as they've won all three previous Game 7 meetings against Colorado. Meanwhile, Avalanche coach Jared Bednar carries an 0-3 record in decisive Game 7 situations.

Home ice has proven crucial in this series with the home team winning each of the last three games. The value on Dallas at plus-money makes this an especially attractive play for a team with historical Game 7 success.

Game 7 intensity often leads to more aggressive offensive play as both teams push to advance. This series has already produced high-scoring affairs with three of the six games featuring seven or more goals.

The historical trends strongly support the over, with the total finishing over in six of the last nine meetings between these teams. Even more compelling, nine of the last 10 games Colorado has played in Dallas have gone over.

Both teams possess elite offensive talent capable of exploiting defensive breakdowns in a high-pressure elimination game. Colorado's firepower led by Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen can strike quickly.

Jake Oettinger allowed seven goals in Game 6 despite making 41 saves, suggesting Colorado has found ways to solve the Dallas netminder. This vulnerability could continue in Game 7.

With elimination on the line, expect both teams to fire everything they have at the opposing goal, creating more high-danger scoring chances throughout all 60 minutes of play.

While a Game 7 is typically tight, the Stars have momentum and matchup advantages that could translate to a multi-goal victory at home. Recent Game 7 history shows that once a team seizes control, the trailing team often takes risks that lead to additional goals against.

Dallas has been dominant at American Airlines Center in this series outside of Game 1. The Stars have found ways to neutralize Colorado's attack on home ice while generating consistent offensive pressure of their own.

The potential returns of Heiskanen and Robertson significantly boost Dallas on both ends of the ice. Heiskanen's elite defensive play helps limit Colorado's dangerous transition game, while Robertson adds scoring punch.

Pete DeBoer's perfect Game 7 record suggests strong tactical preparation for elimination games. His systems typically emphasize responsible defense that can lead to counterattacking opportunities when opponents press.

Oettinger has shown resilience throughout his playoff career, often rebounding from difficult outings with standout performances. After allowing seven goals in Game 6, history suggests he'll deliver a bounce-back effort in Game 7.