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NHL Betting Previews | Spooky Express
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NHL Playoffs Preview for Saturday, April 20, 2024

April 20, 2024



The NHL Postseason starts today!!!  We have two games tonight, starting with Carolina Hurricanes vs. New York Islanders at 5:00 PM and then Boston Bruins hosting the Toronto Maple Leafs at 8:00 PM.

 

Carolina Hurricanes vs. New York Islanders

Tonight, all eyes will be on the PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina, as the Carolina Hurricanes face the New York Islanders in the first game of the NHL's postseason. With the puck set to hit the ice at 5:00 PM, it's time to delve into the stats, odds, and predictions surrounding this highly anticipated game for betting enthusiasts.

Oddsmakers have the Carolina Hurricanes as the -235 favorites, indicating a substantial edge over the Islanders, who come in with a return of +192. The total over/under for the game is set at 5.5 goals.

It's no secret that the Hurricanes are in top form, entering with an impressive record of 52-23-7 SU, holding the #3 seed position. Although their ATS record is 38-44-0, a pivotal stat to monitor is their 27-10-4 stronghold.

On the other hand, the Islanders have had a slightly rougher journey this season, with a record of 39-27-16 SU and 43-39-0 ATS. However, their road record 18-17-6 proves they can perform under pressure and shouldn't be underestimated.

If the head-to-head record indicates what this series holds this year, we are in for a real treat! Their four games this season resulted in a perfect split, each team winning two games.

Scoring has been higher, with the games playing over in 3 of the four encounters. Another interesting fact is the close nature of these games, with 3 of the four matches decided by a single goal.

In positive news for the Islanders, coach Patrick Roy has confirmed the return of defenseman Noah Dobson from an upper-body injury. His return could add much-needed stability to the Islanders' defense, potentially altering the game dynamics.

Considering these factors, tonight's game is a spectacle for sports betting fans. Whether you're siding with the favorites, Hurricanes, or believe in the underdogs, Islanders, prepare for an exciting, high-stakes showdown tonight.

 

Boston Bruins vs. Toronto Maple Leafs

In the second game of the night, we've got a match up between the Boston Bruins and the Toronto Maple Leafs. The puck drops at 8:00 PM at the TD Garden, Boston, Massachusetts.

The oddsmakers favor the Boston Bruins at -130, while the return on the Maple Leafs stands at +108. The over/under for this encounter is 5.5 goals.

On the road, the Toronto Maple Leafs have displayed impressive record all season, racking up a record of 46-26-10 straight-up (SU) and 31-51-0 against the spread (ATS). Their away game strategy has proven quite effective, boasting a substantial win ratio of 24-11-6.

Meanwhile, the Boston Bruins have proven themselves as formidable hosts, with a record of 47-20-15 SU and 38-44-0 ATS. They've defended their home ice fiercely, matching the Maple Leafs' road game win ratio of 24-11-6.

Looking at past encounters, the Bruins have proven to be the stronger team, dealing a clean sweep to the Maple Leafs in the regular season, ending the series 4-0. Even more impressive, the Bruins hold a protracted winning streak against the Maple Leafs dating back to 2023, with seven consecutive victories under their belt.

With such a historic rivalry and promising odds, it's set to be a thrilling game. Make your picks wisely and may the best team win!


Daily Free Play

NY Islanders +1.5 (-136) - In 3 of the 4 games this year, the series was decided by 1 goal.  As a matter of fact, 2 of those games went to OT.  Yes, Carolina is the better team and they are playing at home but getting 1.5 in a defensive postseason game, at just -136 is truly a remarkable value. Take the Islanders plus the 1.5 puckline.