Betsided

NHL Best Bets Today (Back the Bruins as Underdogs in Season Opener)

By Iain MacMillan

Sep 27, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Bruins center Oskar Steen (62) celebrates his goal
Sep 27, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Bruins center Oskar Steen (62) celebrates his goal / Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
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I fell short in both NHL games last night, but now we have a big slate tonight which means more betting options.

There are six games set to take place tonight, most notably, the Toronto Maple Leafs will open their season against the Montreal Canadiens. As you might be able to tell, I'm ecstatic.

I'm sure they won't rip my heart out of my chest yet again. I think it'd be best if I stay away from betting on them for at least their first game.

Let's dive into my best bets for tonight's slate.

NHL Best Bets for October 12th

  • Bruins +120 vs. Capitals
  • Blackhawks +2.5 (-134) vs. Avalanche
  • Canucks/Oilers OVER 6.5 (-105)

Bruins +120 vs. Capitals

The Bruins were the best defensive team in the NHL last season, ranking first in both expected goals against and high danger scoring chances allowed. Meanwhile, the Capitals are an aging roster and I can't envision them progressing from where they were last season.

Washington ranked 12th in CORSI% and 14th in expected goals per 60 minutes. I'll bank on the Bruins to shut down their offense, and start the season off with a win.

Blackhawks +2.5 (-134) vs. Avalanche

Come on, this is ridiculous. I know the Avalanche are the defending champions and the Blackhawks are going to be a bottom tier team in the NHL this season, but a 2.5-goal puck line to start the season off is insane.

At the end of the day, this is still a game between two professional teams. Chicago still has a solid top line with Max Domi and Patrick Kane, and I don't think they'll be the worst team in the NHL. A 2.5-goal puck line is ridiculous. Out of principle, I'll back the Blackhawks to keep it within two goals.

Canucks/Oilers OVER 6.5 (-105)

The Oilers are a perfect team to bet the OVER on. They're below average defensively, but their offense, led by Connor McDavid, is one of the best in the NHL. They ranked fourth in expected goals per 60 minutes last season.

The Canucks are expected to take a step forward this season, and their organization expects to make the playoffs. They could be a sneaky dark horse bet as the season progresses, but I'll back them tonight to pop a couple goals and help us with the OVER.

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

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