Welcome back to another day of NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are happening and gives our predictions for each one, breaking down head-to-head and other factors that may play in. We also have a featured game of the day, which is considered must-watch TV. Today’s featured game for NHL Predictions is the New Jersey Devils vs Dallas Stars.
New Jersey Devils vs Dallas Stars
Head-to-Head: Devils 1 – 0 Stars
The New Jersey Devils and Dallas Stars have both been off to amazing starts so far this season. They both are competing for first in their division, somewhat surprisingly. Less so maybe for Dallas, but New Jersey has been a very pleasant surprise. Led by a breakout season in Jack Hughes, the Devils boast lots of talent, including names such as Dougie Hamilton manning the back end. Tonight, they will be tough. After just playing last night, they face a rested Dallas team who are on game four of a whopping eight-game homestand.
The Stars will look to use that to their advantage as they are getting comfortable. They are 1-0-2 in the homestand so far, dropping their last two in extra time. Their +41 goal differential is the best in the division and they continue to show they can’t be taken lightly. The ageless Joe Pavelski along with names such as Jason Robertson, Miro Heiskanen, and Roope Hintz form a formidable opponent. Look for them to take advantage of a tired Devils team tonight.
Prediction: Stars win 4-3 in Overtime.
Calgary Flames vs Seattle Kraken
Head-to-Head: Flames 1 – 1 Kraken
This should be another solid matchup in the second game of NHL predictions. Every point in the Pacific is so valuable with just six points separating first and fifth. Because of that, look for both teams to bring their A-game. The Calgary Flames are known to want to play a defensive-minded game and counterattack on offence when possible. However, the Seattle Kraken have a high-flying offence that is hard to tame.
Unfortunately, standout rookie Matthew Beniers might be out for this game. That could prove a big blow for Seattle. They are one of the few teams in the league that have built such depth they may be able to overcome it, but losing such a talented player will always sting. Look for this one to be a close one but for the Flames defence to step up.
Prediction: Flames win 2-1.
Columbus Blue Jackets vs Vancouver Canucks
Head-to-Head: Jackets 1 – 0 Canucks
This one may not be quite as exciting as the previous two. However, there are still reasons to watch. Johnny Gaudreau is back in town, and he will be looking to light it up for the Columbus Blue Jackets. He has been a highlight in an overall very disappointing season for the team.
The Vancouver Canucks news cycle has been flourishing this week. However, they will now look to just play hockey. Andrei Kuzmenko may be motivated tonight after signing a new $11 million deal. It will likely be Spencer Martin between the pipes. Let’s see if Rick Tocchet has started to introduce a more defensive-style system. That was not around when they lost to Seattle on Wednesday.
Main Photo:
