Top NHL Picks and Predictions Today (Pivotal Western Conference Matchups Set for Wednesday Night)
We're having a solid week with my NHL picks. We followed up a 2-1 Monday with a 2-0-1 Tuesday. I know some of you got the UNDER in the Flames/Wild game, and if you did, congratulations on the 3-0 night!
Let's make it three-winning nights in a row. Here are my top picks for the March 2 slate.
All odds listed are via WynnBET Sportsbook.
St. Louis Blues vs. New York Rangers Prediction and Pick
I haven't been a big believer in the Rangers this season, but I'm even less of a believer in the Blues. Their high shooting accuracy has masked a lot of underlying issues that you normally wouldn't see from a team that's in second place in its division.
The Blues are 26th in CORSI%, 27th in high danger scoring chances, and 16th in high danger scoring chances against over their last 25 games. They also lead in the NHL in shooting percentage during that stretch, but now they'll likely be facing the future Vezina Trophy winner in Igor Shesterkin.
If the Rangers goaltender can prevent the Blues to have a snipe show all night like they have against recent opponents, they can outplay them in between the blue lines and take home the win.
Pick: Rangers -110
Los Angeles Kings vs. Dallas Stars Prediction and Pick
I've been a believer in the Kings for a while, and now that they're starting to make me look smart, I have no reason to jump off their bandwagon.
They rank first in the NHL in CORSI% over their last 25 games, while also ranking second in expected goals per 60 minutes and seventh in expected goals against per 60 minutes. They've had some goaltending issues during that stretch, ranking 28th in save percentage, but Cal Petersen seems to be rounding into form, having allowed only two goals in three straight games.
The Stars have been chugging along as the pure definition of average. 15th in CORSI% and12th in expected goals per 60 minutes.
I'll jump at the chance to back Los Angeles as an underdog.
Pick: Kings +115
Nashville Predators vs. Seattle Kraken Prediction and Pick
Neither the Predators or Kraken have been strong offensively as of late. Nashville ranks 26th in high danger scoring chances over its last 25 games, and Seattle ranks 28th in that stretch. The Kraken also rank dead last in shooting percentage, finding the back of the net on only 7.66% of shots.
The OVER has been trending for both teams, but I think it's time to fade that trend tonight.
The Kraken's goaltending has been a big issue and is a cause of concern for betting on the UNDER tonight, but Seattle's lack of offense should balance things out.
Pick: UNDER 5.5 (-110)
Iain is 40-35-2 (+2.45 units) with his NHL picks in 2022. Check out his detailed record here.