The Vegas Golden Knights host the Minnesota Wild in Game 1 of their first-round NHL playoff series. The Golden Knights finished the regular season with a strong record of 50-22-10, while the Wild posted a 45-30-7 record.
Key Factors to Consider
Vegas Golden Knights have shown consistent form at home with a 29-9-3 record. Minnesota Wild, despite having a good season, may face challenges against a strong Vegas team.
The two teams have not played each other recently in the playoffs, except for a 2021 series win by Vegas. However, historical data may not fully reflect current team dynamics.
There is no specific information on major injuries that could significantly impact the game's outcome.
Home advantage could play a crucial role for Vegas, given their strong home record.
Both teams are highly motivated entering the playoffs, but Vegas's home crowd may provide an edge.
Odds and Predictions
Category
Odds
Prediction
Confidence
Moneyline
Vegas -170, Minnesota 142
Vegas Golden Knights win
★★★☆☆ 65%
Spread
Vegas -1.5 154, Minnesota 1.5 -185
Minnesota Wild cover the spread
★★★☆☆ 55%
Over/under
Over 5.5 -115, Under 5.5 -105
Over 5.5 goals
★★★☆☆ 58%
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
Market
EV Pick
Moneyline
Vegas Golden Knights -5%
Spread
N/A
Over/Under
Over 5.5 -3%
🔥 Best Value Pick: Over 5.5 at -3% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 0% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Vegas Golden Knights are favored to win Game 1 due to their home record and team performance.
Predicted Score: Vegas Golden Knights 3, Minnesota Wild 2
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Vegas Golden Knights vs. Minnesota Wild Prediction
Match Analysis: Vegas Golden Knights vs Minnesota Wild – Prediction Match Details Date: 2025-04-20 Time: 2:10 AM UTC Location: T-Mobile Arena Game Overview The Vegas Golden Knights host the Minnesota Wild in Game 1 of their first-round NHL playoff series. The Golden Knights finished the regular season with a strong record of 50-22-10, while the […]
The opening game of the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs first-round series between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators marks the first postseason meeting of these two rivals in 21 years, reigniting the storied Battle of Ontario. Toronto, the higher seed and home team, is looking to overcome a recent trend of early playoff exits, while Ottawa enters as a young and hungry team that swept Toronto 3-0 during the regular season. The series is expected to be intense and emotionally charged, highlighting a provincial rivalry that has been building momentum all season.
Key Factors to Consider
During the 2024-25 regular season, the Ottawa Senators dominated the Maple Leafs head-to-head with a 3-0 record, outscoring them 9-3 overall, indicating a clear upper hand. Toronto has struggled to counter Ottawa’s defensive and offensive execution in these matchups. Ottawa’s goaltender Stolarz is in excellent form, winning his last eight starts including two shutouts, and boasting a .950 save percentage during this stretch, suggesting goaltending will be a critical factor. Toronto's playoff history has been marked by narrow defeats, often decided in one-goal games, underscoring the importance of clutch performances.
The Senators hold a 3-0 edge over the Maple Leafs this season in all meetings, with Ottawa outscoring Toronto 9-3 across those games. This dominance reflects Ottawa’s current tactical and player performance advantage leading into the playoffs, making them the favorites in the rivalry's latest chapter.
No explicit injury data was provided for this matchup, suggesting both teams may be approaching the series with largely healthy rosters. This parity in health status puts emphasis on tactical execution and goaltending.
The series carries substantial emotional weight for both fanbases and players, intensifying the rivalry beyond usual playoff pressures. The home advantage for the Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena in Game 1 and 2, followed by a shift to Ottawa for Games 3 and 4, may affect momentum swings. Additionally, the NHL’s scheduling with two-day breaks before pivotal games could influence player rest and strategic preparation.
Toronto is highly motivated to break their recent pattern of first-round playoff exits, especially against a team that has bested them convincingly in the regular season. Ottawa aims to capitalize on their season success and youthful energy to make significant playoff noise and claim provincial bragging rights, heightening the competitive stakes.
Odds and Predictions
Category
Odds
Prediction
Confidence
Moneyline
Ottawa Senators: +136, Toronto Maple Leafs: -162
Ottawa Senators moneyline win
★★★☆☆ 65%
Spread
Ottawa Senators +1.5: -192, Toronto Maple Leafs -1.5: +160
Ottawa Senators +1.5
★★★★☆ 70%
Over/under
Over 5.5: -110, Under 5.5: -110
Under 5.5 goals
★★★☆☆ 60%
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
Market
EV Pick
Moneyline
Ottawa Senators 20%
Spread
N/A
Over/Under
Under 5.5 5%
🔥 Best Value Pick: Ottawa Senators at 20% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 15% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Given Ottawa’s strong regular-season dominance over Toronto and the form of their goaltending, the prediction favors Ottawa Senators to win Game 1. However, considering Toronto’s home ice advantage and playoff experience, the match is likely to be competitive and close. A narrow win for Ottawa by one goal is the most probable outcome.
Predicted Score: Ottawa Senators 3 – 2 Toronto Maple Leafs
The Carolina Hurricanes host the New Jersey Devils in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series. The Hurricanes hold a 4-1 all-time postseason advantage over the Devils, including a second-round victory in 2023. Carolina has home-ice advantage and a strong playoff record at Lenovo Center (45-26 all-time, 12/15 series wins at home since 2002)[3][4].
Key Factors to Consider
Hurricanes finished second in the Metropolitan Division with their seventh consecutive playoff appearance. Devils recently clinched their spot on April 11[1][4].
Canes won 4 of 5 previous playoff series against New Jersey, most recently in 2023[4].
No specific injury details available, but Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton aims to return to peak form for playoffs[1].
Hurricanes' sustained home-ice advantage (12/15 series wins at home since 2002)[3][4].
Both teams seek early series momentum, with Carolina aiming to capitalize on home dominance[3][4].
Odds and Predictions
Category
Odds
Prediction
Confidence
Moneyline
CAR -180 / NJD +150
Carolina Hurricanes
★★★★☆ 75%
Spread
CAR -1.5 (+142) / NJD +1.5 (-170)
Devils +1.5
★★★☆☆ 65%
Over/under
Over 5.5 (+114) / Under 5.5 (-135)
Under 5.5
★★★☆☆ 58%
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
Market
EV Pick
Moneyline
Carolina Hurricanes -0%
Spread
N/A
Over/Under
Under 5.5 -6%
🔥 Best Value Pick: Carolina Hurricanes at -0% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 0% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Hurricanes win Game 1 by leveraging home-ice advantage and playoff experience
The Calgary Wranglers face the San Jose Barracuda in a critical Pacific Division showdown. The Barracuda secured an 8-3 victory over the Wranglers in their recent meeting on April 18th at the same venue, showcasing a potent offense led by Luca Cagnoni and Danil Gushchin. With playoffs imminent, the Wranglers need a regulation win to surpass San Jose in the standings, while the Barracuda aim to maintain their advantageous position.
Key Factors to Consider
San Jose Barracuda have shown strong offensive capability recently, scoring a season-high 8 goals against the Wranglers. The Wranglers struggled defensively in that match but have been competitive overall with 36 wins this season. Both teams are closely matched with the Wranglers slightly ahead in overall head-to-head wins.
Out of 14 meetings, Calgary Wranglers have won 8 games and San Jose Barracuda 6, with no draws. At the Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary has won 4 of 8 away games against San Jose, and the teams are fairly evenly matched historically.
No specific recent injury updates were found for either team, indicating both squads likely have their main players available for the match.
The match is played at Calgary’s home arena, which can provide a small advantage. The recent high-scoring game may affect defensive focus. Playoff pressure adds intensity and motivation.
Calgary Wranglers require a regulation win to leapfrog San Jose in the standings and secure a better playoff seed, which should drive a strong performance. San Jose, having just beaten Calgary decisively, will seek to repeat their success and maintain momentum heading into playoffs.
Odds and Predictions
Category
Odds
Prediction
Confidence
Moneyline
Calgary Wranglers: -105, San Jose Barracuda: -125
San Jose Barracuda
★★★☆☆ 65%
Spread
Calgary Wranglers +1.5: -285, San Jose Barracuda -1.5: 210
Calgary Wranglers +1.5
★★★★☆ 70%
Over/under
Over 5.5: -120, Under 5.5: -110
Over 5.5 goals
★★★★☆ 75%
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
Market
EV Pick
Moneyline
San Jose Barracuda -6%
Spread
N/A
Over/Under
Over 5.5 10%
🔥 Best Value Pick: Over 5.5 at 10% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 12% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
San Jose Barracuda are favored to win due to their recent dominant performance and slightly better form, but Calgary's home advantage and motivation to recover suggest a competitive and possibly closer game.
Predicted Score: San Jose Barracuda 5 – 4 Calgary Wranglers
The upcoming AHL match features the San Diego Gulls visiting the Coachella Valley Firebirds. The two teams have faced off recently with tightly contested games, including a 4-3 overtime win for the Firebirds on April 13, 2025, and a February 15, 2025 win for the Gulls with a 5-3 scoreline. Both teams have shown offensive capabilities but also defensive vulnerabilities.
Key Factors to Consider
San Diego Gulls have been competitive with recent wins and losses indicating fluctuating form, including a 5-3 victory on the road and close shootout games. Coachella Valley Firebirds have edged out the Gulls recently with a narrow overtime win but have also been scored against heavily in some matches.
Recent head-to-head show a very close rivalry: Firebirds won 4-3 in overtime on April 13, 2025, while Gulls won 5-3 in February 2025. This suggests a well-matched competition with slight recent advantage for Firebirds.
No specific injury reports available from current data, implying relatively full squads or no significant injury news impacting key players.
Game played at Coachella Valley gives Firebirds home ice advantage, which may influence momentum in their favor. Weather and travel do not seem to be major factors.
Both teams are motivated to improve standings in the late season, with Firebirds seeking to capitalize on home advantage and Gulls aiming to prove resilience on the road.
Odds and Predictions
Category
Odds
Prediction
Confidence
Moneyline
Coachella Valley Firebirds: -155, San Diego Gulls: 120
Coachella Valley Firebirds to win
★★★★☆ 70%
Spread
Coachella Valley Firebirds: 170, San Diego Gulls: -225
Coachella Valley Firebirds to cover -1.5 spread
★★★☆☆ 65%
Over/under
Over 5.5: -115, Under 5.5: -115
Over 5.5 goals
★★★☆☆ 60%
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
Market
EV Pick
Moneyline
San Diego Gulls -1%
Spread
N/A
Over/Under
Over 5.5 8%
🔥 Best Value Pick: Over 5.5 at 8% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 9.7% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Coachella Valley Firebirds are predicted to win a close and competitive game due to their slight home advantage and recent narrow victories over the Gulls. Expect a tight game with scoring above 5 goals combined.
Predicted Score: Coachella Valley Firebirds 4 – 2 San Diego Gulls
The AHL match between Ontario Reign and Abbotsford Canucks is a key late-season encounter with both teams holding near .500 records. Ontario Reign have a slight home advantage playing in Toyota Arena, and recent meetings between these two have often been closely contested, emphasizing the competitive nature of this matchup.
Key Factors to Consider
Ontario Reign stand at 4-3-0-1 while Abbotsford Canucks are 4-4-0-0, indicating balanced but slightly better results for Ontario at home. Ontario has had success recently against Abbotsford, especially when getting a +1.5 handicap at home, showing they can cover spreads consistently against this opponent.
Historical matchups show Ontario Reign have been competitive with Abbotsford Canucks. Recent matches show Ontario often covers the spread and has won home games against Abbotsford, making head-to-head history favorable to Ontario, particularly on home ice.
No explicit injury details were found for either team in the immediate lead-up to this game, suggesting both sides should be near full strength.
The game is Ontario Reign's Fan Appreciation Night, which could boost home team motivation and atmosphere. Outdoor game history is noted but this match is indoors, so no adverse weather impact is expected.
Ontario Reign, playing at home and during Fan Appreciation Night, have an elevated motivation to perform well for their fans, while Abbotsford Canucks will look to spoil the party and improve their slightly worse record.
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
Market
EV Pick
Moneyline
Ontario Reign 4%
Spread
N/A
Over/Under
Under 5.5 -1%
🔥 Best Value Pick: Ontario Reign at 4% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 3.9% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Given the slight edge in recent form and home advantage, Ontario Reign are predicted to win narrowly over Abbotsford Canucks in a tightly contested game.
The Chicago Wolves host the Rockford IceHogs in an AHL matchup at Allstate Arena. The Wolves have been performing well, winning six of their last ten games, while the IceHogs have won four of their last ten. Both teams are evenly matched on the moneyline, suggesting a competitive game.
Key Factors to Consider
Chicago has shown better recent form, with six wins out of ten games. Rockford has struggled, winning four out of ten.
In their head-to-head matchups, Chicago leads with 61 wins (including overtime) to Rockford's 52, out of 118 games.
No significant injury reports are available for this matchup.
External factors such as crowd support should favor Chicago, given their home advantage.
Both teams will be highly motivated, as the end of the regular season approaches.
Odds and Predictions
Category
Odds
Prediction
Confidence
Moneyline
-118 for both teams
Chicago Wolves
★★★☆☆ 55%
Spread
Chicago -1.5 240, Rockford 1.5 -375
Rockford +1.5
★★★☆☆ 60%
Over/under
Over 5.5 -107, Under 5.5 -130
Under 5.5
★★★☆☆ 57%
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
Market
EV Pick
Moneyline
Chicago Wolves -4%
Spread
N/A
Over/Under
Under 5.5 1%
🔥 Best Value Pick: Under 5.5 at 1% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 1.1% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Given Chicago's recent performance and home advantage, they are slightly favored to win.
Predicted Score: Chicago Wolves 2, Rockford IceHogs 3 (in overtime or a close regulation loss for Chicago)
Location: Bridgeport, CT (assumed Bridgeport Islanders home arena)
Game Overview
The upcoming AHL match between the Providence Bruins and the Bridgeport Islanders is set to be a competitive encounter. Providence Bruins have shown strong recent form, including a 3-2 win over Bridgeport on October 12, 2024, demonstrating their ability to hold leads and close out tight games. Meanwhile, Bridgeport has also secured convincing wins in the past, such as a recent 5-1 victory over Providence on February 26, 2025. This matchup features two closely matched teams with dynamic offenses and capable goaltending, promising an engaging contest.
Key Factors to Consider
Providence Bruins have exhibited consistent performance with recent victories including a close 3-2 win versus Bridgeport, supported by strong offensive contributions from players like Vinni Lettieri and Jeffrey Viel. Bridgeport Islanders have also displayed strong form with a notable 5-1 rout of Providence in February, indicating their offensive potency. Both teams have demonstrated resilience and scoring ability across recent meetings.
Recent head-to-head results reflect a competitive rivalry; Bridgeport convincingly defeated Providence 5-1 on February 26, 2025, but Providence secured a narrow 3-2 win at Bridgeport in October 2024. These results suggest each team knows how to exploit the other's weaknesses, making the outcome less predictable and dependent on current form and in-game adjustments.
No specific injury information is available from search results. Assuming no significant absences impacting starting lineups or key players for either team.
The game is played at Bridgeport's home arena, which may provide the Islanders a home-ice advantage. No other external factors such as weather or travel disruptions were noted. The match is scheduled late in the season, which may influence team motivation and strategic approaches toward playoffs or standings.
Both teams likely enter the game motivated to secure a win given their previous close contests and the importance of late-season games in the AHL. Providence Bruins appear motivated to avenge their recent heavy loss and extend their winning streak against Bridgeport. Bridgeport will be aiming to assert dominance at home and build momentum.
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
Market
EV Pick
Moneyline
Bridgeport Islanders -14%
Spread
N/A
Over/Under
Under 6 5%
🔥 Best Value Pick: Under 6 at 5% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 5.5% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Providence Bruins are favored to win based on recent head-to-head results, better odds, and demonstrated resilience in tight games. The match is expected to be closely contested with a moderate scoring game.
The match between Iowa Wild and Grand Rapids Griffins is poised to be a closely contested game, with both teams having a strong head-to-head history. Recent games have seen high scoring, with an average total of 5.3 goals per match.
Key Factors to Consider
Iowa Wild has won 5 of their last 10 games, while Grand Rapids Griffins have shown consistency in their matches. Grand Rapids often performs well away from home, having 44 wins in head-to-head matchups.
In their head-to-head matches, Grand Rapids Griffins have a slight edge, with 44 wins compared to Iowa Wild's 33. Recent matches have been high-scoring.
No specific injury details are currently available.
The game is being played at Iowa Wild's home arena, which might give them an edge. However, the Griffins have been successful on the road.
Both teams will be motivated to perform well, especially given their current standings.
Odds and Predictions
Category
Odds
Prediction
Confidence
Moneyline
Iowa Wild: -109, Grand Rapids Griffins: -127
Iowa Wild might have a slight edge due to home advantage, but the odds favor Grand Rapids slightly.
★★★☆☆ 55%
Spread
Iowa Wild +1.5: -345, Grand Rapids Griffins -1.5: 230
Given Grand Rapids' away performance, taking them -1.5 could be risky. Iowa +1.5 might be safer.
★★☆☆☆ 45%
Over/under
Over 5.5: 104, Under 5.5: -143
Over 5.5 goals due to the high-scoring nature of their matches.
★★★☆☆ 65%
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
Market
EV Pick
Moneyline
Iowa Wild -0%
Spread
N/A
Over/Under
Over 5.5 33%
🔥 Best Value Pick: Over 5.5 at 33% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 31.3% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Considering the high-scoring nature of their matchups and both teams' recent performances, the game is likely to see over 4.5 goals.
Predicted Score: Iowa Wild 3, Grand Rapids Griffins 4
The Hershey Bears host the Lehigh Valley Phantoms in a crucial AHL matchup. Hershey Bears have been among the top performers this season with an overall record of 43-18-6-1 and excellent road form (24-5-5-1), while Lehigh Valley Phantoms are below .500 with a record of 33-28-6-2. Hershey recently won against Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins 4-2, demonstrating strong offensive capability, whereas Lehigh Valley lost narrowly to Syracuse 2-1, being heavily outshot and showing signs of fatigue.
Key Factors to Consider
Hershey Bears have dominated recently, showing consistent offensive pressure and solid goaltending. They have a strong road record and have won their last four games. Lehigh Valley Phantoms have struggled defensively, have a losing record, and lost their most recent game while being outshot significantly.
The last meetings have favored Hershey Bears, who had an 8-2-0-2 record against Lehigh Valley in recent games. The Bears also won the previous matchup on April 12, 2025, showing better form and fitness.
No significant injury reports for either side have been publicly noted ahead of this game. Both teams are expected to field near full-strength lineups.
The game is taking place at Hershey's home venue, the Giant Center, which favors the Bears. The Bears benefit from strong crowd support and a short turnaround after recent wins, while Lehigh Valley has shown signs of fatigue.
Hershey Bears are motivated to maintain their winning streak and solidify playoff positioning. The Phantoms aim to improve their standing but face an uphill battle given recent form and away venue.
Odds and Predictions
Category
Odds
Prediction
Confidence
Moneyline
Hershey Bears: -162, Lehigh Valley Phantoms: 116
Hershey Bears
★★★★☆ 85%
Spread
Hershey Bears -1.5: 170, Lehigh Valley Phantoms +1.5: -245
Hershey Bears -1.5
★★★★☆ 75%
Over/under
Over 5.5: 102, Under 5.5: -141
Under 5.5
★★★★☆ 70%
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
Market
EV Pick
Moneyline
Hershey Bears 0%
Spread
N/A
Over/Under
Under 5.5 3%
🔥 Best Value Pick: Under 5.5 at 3% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 3.6% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Hershey Bears are the clear favorites with strong recent performances, home advantage, and superior overall record. Expect them to win by a margin of at least two goals.
Predicted Score: Hershey Bears 4 – 2 Lehigh Valley Phantoms