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 is the Colorado Avalanche vs Nashville Predators. This is our final edition of NHL predictions for the regular season.
NHL Predictions
Buffalo Sabres vs Columbus Blue Jackets
Head-to-Head: Sabres 1-1 Blue Jackets
Our first game of NHL predictions has the Buffalo Sabres and Columbus Blue Jackets rounding out the season. This game was rescheduled from the late December snow storm in Western New York. Buffalo may decide to give Craig Anderson one last send off in goal despite playing the night before. However, it could give Devon Levi one more start before the off-season starts. The Sabres may have missed out on the playoffs, but there’s a lot to be excited for about the future.
Columbus may have played its way out of getting the best odds at Connor Bedard. The Jackets may go with a myriad of options in net from Jet Greaves or Jon Gillies in goal. Michael Hutchinson played the night before in the 3-2 overtime win over the Pittsburgh Penguins. The win may have hampered the team’s odds of getting the top pick. Columbus was seen as a dark horse pick to make some noise in the Metropolitan Division. However, the team was very disappointing.
Buffalo may not have gotten the ending it wanted this season, but there’s plenty of hope. The Sabres should end the season on a high note.
Prediction: Sabres win 5-2.
Colorado Avalanche vs Nashville Predators
Head-to-Head: Avalanche 3-0 Predators
Our final and featured game of NHL predictions has the Avalanche trying to wrap up the Central Division. This game is being made up from when Bridgestone Arena had issues earlier in the season. Colorado only needs an overtime loss to clinch the divisional crown due to more wins and a better win percentage. Logic would dictate that Pavel Francouz should start, but the Avs may go with Alexandar Georgiev on back-to-back nights. Colorado has won four of its last five games and put itself in position with 4-2 victory over the Winnipeg Jets.
Kevin Lankinen may get the call in goal with Juuse Saros starting the night before. The Predators may have been sellers at the deadline, but haven’t played like it. Nashville has given teams plenty of fits with a lot of younger players. The Predators have also won four of their last five games and gave a good account of themselves after the deadline. There may be some changes under incoming general manager Barry Trotz. However, Nashville has some solid young players and a lot of draft capital in the upcoming draft.
Nashville will give a good game, but Colorado seals up the divisional title with a victory.
Prediction: Avalanche win 3-2.
Main photo by: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
