Golden Knights vs. Stars Prediction and Odds (Vegas With Edge in Must-Win Spot)

We've got a matchup of struggling teams clinging to their playoff dreams tonight as the 44-30-5 Dallas Stars host the 42-31-6 Vegas Golden Knights at 8:30 PM EST.

Both teams have lost three of their last four as we near the close of the NHL season. Dallas currently holds a three-point lead over the Golden Knights for the second wild card spot in the Western Conference, so tonight's contest is of the utmost importance.

A loss for Vegas would likely end their playoff hopes while the Stars can distance themselves from the field with a win.

The Golden Knights have a pair of one-goal wins over Dallas this year. Can they earn a third victory in a crucial spot or will the Stars get it done at home?

Let's take a peak at the odds from WynnBET Sportsbook to help find value in this all-important Golden Knights vs Stars matchup:

Golden Knights vs. Stars Odds, Run Line and Total

Puck Line:

• Golden Knights +1.5 (-250)
• Stars -1.5 (+200)

Moneyline:

• Golden Knights (-105)
• Stars (-115)

Total:

• 5.5 (Over -115/Under -105)

Golden Knights vs. Stars Prediction and Pick

Throughout the brief history of the franchise, Vegas has excelled with their backs against the wall. They've never missed the playoffs, but that's the reality they're facing if they lose tonight. The Stars can clinch a postseason berth tonight, though the scrappy Golden Knights will be fully focused to try and stop that from happening.

Playoff hockey is truly incredible and we'll get a real taste of that kind of atmosphere in this one.

Logan Thompson will be in net for Vegas and he's been a mixed bag. He's given up two goals or fewer in four of his last seven starts, but four goals each in the other three. Stars' goalie Jake Oettinger hasn't fared much better though, and Dallas' offense is really struggling.

The Stars are averaging just two goals per game in their last seven, while Vegas has averaged 3.71 per game over the same stretch.

I believe the Golden Knights are the better team. They had a pair of terrible losses last week, but that's just giving us value in a must-win spot tonight. Give me Vegas to keep their season alive and once again come through with their backs against the wall.

Pick: Golden Knights (-105)

Follow all of Joe Summers' betting picks here.