The NHL season continues to be eventful… we’re onto a small slate of games today. In yesterday’s article I broke down the line movement on two of the games, so if you’re interested in that check out that. Given the limited selection in games, I only have one play for today.
Chicago Blackhawks (+105) @ New Jersey Devils (-125)
This is the season opener for New Jersey, meanwhile Chicago is coming off a 4-2 loss to Colorado. In that game, Chicago was outshot 18-8 in the first period which led to a 3-1 Avalanche lead early. They would find their footing after that and end the game only being outshot 36-34. This 4-2 loss may be misleading, Chicago had an xG (expected goals) of 3.23 to Colorado’s 3.56. The big issue of this game was Fleury’s play, as he had a -0.44 GSAx which doesn’t match up to his performance last year. He’s expected to start in tonight’s game, so hopefully he can regain his Vezina form for a Hawks team that should be competitive this year.
Looking at New Jersey, they have already been bitten by injury bug losing three starters including their starting goalie, Mackenzie Blackwood. The Devils will again look to their first pick in the 2019 draft, Jack Hughes, for an offensive spark. New Jersey struggled to find the back of the net last season but will get back Nico Hischier who missed most of last season.
The line movement has indicated that Chicago is the side to back, and that’s the play for me. The goalie matchup is the big factor as to why I’m backing the Blackhawks here. With Chicago being + money, I think it has some value, especially given the situation they’re in. I’m not sold on New Jersey’s defense either, especially having Ty Smith and Damon Severson being placed on IR.
PICK: CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS (+105)
Best of luck, and as always you can find me on Twitter @GatorBetting and Instagram @Gator_Sports_Betting.
