NHL Best Bets Today: Expert NHL Picks for 05/06/2025

The Hurricanes-Capitals matchup looks prime for an under play based on several key defensive trends. Carolina's offense drops considerably on the road, scoring just 2.71 goals per game away from home during the regular season, ranking 21st in the league.

Washington's defensive structure has been exceptional lately, limiting the Canadiens to 2 or fewer goals in 4 of their 5 first-round games. Their netminder Logan Thompson is playing with tremendous confidence, posting a stellar .923 save percentage in the opening series.

The Hurricanes bring their own defensive prowess to the table, allowing fewer than 30 shots per game in the playoffs and haven't allowed a single powerplay goal this postseason. Their defensive structure is specifically designed to prevent high-danger chances.

Game 1 of playoff series often features a feeling-out process between teams, leading to more cautious, defensive-minded hockey. Both these teams prioritize structure over high-octane offense, especially in playoff settings.

With Thompson's hot form between the pipes for Washington and Carolina's road scoring struggles, we're confident backing the under in what should be a tight, defensively sound opening game.

The Golden Knights bring significant home-ice advantage into this matchup, having won four of their last five games on home ice. Vegas's offense is clicking at the right time, putting up 10 goals across their past three contests.

Special teams could be a decisive factor here. The Knights are converting over 28% of their power play opportunities, while Edmonton ranks just 16th in penalty kill efficiency. This mismatch gives Vegas a crucial edge in what could be a tight game.

Edmonton's road defense has been suspect lately, surrendering 13 goals in their last three away games. This vulnerability plays perfectly into Vegas's hands, as they've shown consistent offensive firepower.

The Oilers' road scoring has also declined recently, with just five goals across their last two away games. Vegas is playing sound defensive hockey, allowing only seven goals in their last three contests overall.

With Vegas's defensive stability, special teams advantage, and Edmonton's road struggles, the Golden Knights moneyline offers strong value in this Western Conference clash.

Recent scoring trends point toward a high-scoring affair between the Oilers and Golden Knights. Edmonton has played over the total in five of their last six games, while Vegas has gone over in three of their last five.

The Oilers bring a potent offense averaging 3.16 goals per game overall and have been even more productive on the road lately with 3.33 goals per game in their last three away contests. This offensive firepower will test Vegas's defense.

Vegas contributes their own scoring punch, averaging 3.34 goals per game on the season. Their special teams are particularly dangerous, converting an impressive 40% of their power play opportunities in recent home games.

Edmonton's defensive issues on the road (allowing 13 goals in their last three away games) create additional scoring opportunities for Vegas. This defensive vulnerability has been a recurring problem for the Oilers.

Both teams have proven they can light the lamp consistently, and with Edmonton's struggling road defense paired against Vegas's efficient power play, we expect enough goals to push this game over the total.