Friday’s NHL schedule is compact with four games, loaded with excitement and the promise of fast-paced action, dramatic finishes, and plenty of highlight-reel moments. 

One of the most compelling games of the night features two teams trending in different directions as the Vancouver Canucks travel to Raleigh to play the Carolina Hurricanes. Once again this season, Vancouver has been a media circus with an increasing number of injuries and lackluster play from stars like Elias Pettersson, all contributing to four losses in their last six games. They will clash with one of the best teams in the East on Friday as the Hurricanes look to rebound from a troubling 4–1 loss to the Washington Capitals on Tuesday.

For those following our Pad Stack challenge, we began with a $10 bankroll and aim to grow it through smart, data-driven picks. Past runs have turned small stakes into triple-digit profits, and tonight’s focus is the Canucks–Hurricanes matchup, which offers another strong opportunity to build momentum.

Our bankroll reached as high as $264.60 before a setback earlier this season. After a successful bet on the Red Wings outlasting the Ducks on Thursday, our current bankroll is close to that previous high, now standing at $136.79, and we are ready to reach a new season high for the challenge.

All betting lines are from BetMGM Sportsbook and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly. 

Sign up with BetMGM, make a deposit, and place your first wager on any game using your First Bet Offer token. If that bet with the token applied loses, you’ll get your original stake paid back in Bonus Bets, up to $1,500! Get in the game today with BetMGM.

Are The Boston Bruins For Real?Boston's impressive win streak ignites debate. Can Pastrnak and Geekie lead this resurgent team past last year's playoff disappointment?

Picks: Canucks +2.5 & Over 4.5 Goals (-114)

The Canucks have managed to stay competitive against some of the league’s top teams this season. Notably, they forced overtime against the league-leading Colorado Avalanche and tallied three goals in a close loss to the Winnipeg Jets this past Tuesday. Despite this, many expect the Carolina Hurricanes to dominate on Friday, especially with the home team coming off three days of rest and looking to rebound from their recent loss to the Capitals. This matchup marks the 88th meeting between the two clubs, with Vancouver historically holding the edge with a 42-32-11-2 record.

Recently, this trend has persisted, as the Canucks have claimed victory in three of their last five games against Carolina, though the Hurricanes have won the last two matchups. Vancouver still appears capable of keeping Friday’s game competitive, boasting a 7-5 record against the spread as an underdog this season, along with five outright wins. 

Offensively, the Canucks have been strong, scoring 23 goals over their last seven games, ranking them in the NHL’s top ten over that stretch. Defense, however, remains the team’s primary weakness. 

During the same seven-game span, Vancouver has allowed 30 goals and has shown little improvement. Adding to the concern, captain and defensive cornerstone Quinn Hughes is listed as questionable for Friday’s game. He did, however, play the full game against Winnipeg on Tuesday, suggesting he should be available.

Injuries have also hampered Vancouver, affecting players like Filip Chytil, Nils Hoglander, Derek Forbort, Teddy Blueger, and starting goaltender Thatcher Demko, who has struggled with injuries over the past several seasons. The Canucks had hoped for stability with backup Kevin Lankinen, but overuse has impacted his confidence, mirroring situations like the Toronto Maple Leafs with Anthony Stolarz. 

Lankinen has struggled to start the season, posting a 3-5-1 record, 3.57 goals-against average, and a .885 save percentage in nine starts. He is slated to start again on Friday, carrying a 3-3-2 record, 3.85 goals-against average, and .886 save percentage in eight appearances versus the Hurricanes.

If the Canucks want to win this one or remain within striking distance, they'll need to backup their play with some offense of their own and should make this a relatively sweat-free over in goals.  A wager on the Canucks and the over at -114 odds with an $136.79 bankroll would return a profit of $120.38, for a total payout of $257.17 in return.

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are coming off three straight losses and will be looking for a much-needed bounce-back game when they host the LA Kings on Thursday. The Kings enter the matchup after winning three of their last four games, including impressive victories over the Jets, Penguins, and Canadiens, snapping several winning streaks along the way.

This game promises plenty of intrigue for fans and bettors alike, with the potential for high-scoring action and standout individual performances. We aim to build on our early-season momentum, having strung together multiple wins in the Pad Stack Challenge and holding an 8-2 record so far for our bank-building challenge. That momentum has carried over into other picks, including a perfect 4-0 night last Friday with the Penguins-Capitals game.

All betting lines are from BetMGM Sportsbook and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly. 

Sign up with BetMGM, make a deposit, and place your first wager on any game using your First Bet Offer token. If that bet with the token applied loses, you’ll get your original stake paid back in Bonus Bets, up to $1,500! Get in the game today with BetMGM.

Red Wings Set For Bounce Back in Offensive Frenzy Versus DucksDetroit eyes a crucial victory against Anaheim, aiming to ignite their offense and overcome recent struggles with a high-scoring performance.

Toronto Maple Leafs vs LA Kings Best Bets

Over 6.0 Goals (-105)

John Tavares Anytime Goal (+170)

Corey Perry Over 0.5 Points (+110) Longshot Pick

The Buds offense has been red hot lately, ranking third in the NHL with 62 goals through 17 games. However, their defense has been their Achilles' heel to start the season. With 65 goals allowed, Toronto is tied with Nashville for the most goals allowed this season.

The struggles are compounded by heavy reliance on Anthony Stolarz, who has 13 starts this season with a 3.51 goals-against average and an .884 save percentage. In Toronto's most recent loss to the Bruins, Stolarz appeared rattled, allowing three goals on 11 shots in the first period.

This defensive vulnerability could give the Kings an opening. Los Angeles sits tied with the Washington Capitals for 20th in the NHL for goals per game with a 2.88 average. The Kings are known for their elite defensive structure, which typically places them among the top two or three defenses in the league. Currently, they are inside the top ten, allowing 2.88 goals per game, tied with the Carolina Hurricanes. This structure has often resulted in low-scoring matchups against Toronto, with six of the last ten games totaling five goals or fewer. However, an unexpected high-scoring game or shootout is possible.

For tonight, the young Dennis Hildeby is confirmed to start for Toronto and has struggled this season, with a 3.75 goals-against average in three appearances. On the other side, LA's Darcy Kuemper has been solid over his last three starts but has faced challenges versus Toronto, holding a 3-5-0 record, a 3.01 goals-against average, and an .887 save percentage in ten starts against the Maple Leafs.

The question is who will take advantage of what could be a high-scoring affair. For Los Angeles, attention turns to 40-year-old Corey Perry. The longtime NHL veteran has seven goals in his last ten games and has scored in three of his last four games versus Toronto. While a longshot pick, Perry should be able to contribute at least a point, especially alongside returning Toronto native Jeff Malott, who will be looking to score against his hometown team.

For Toronto, the focus is on John Tavares. With superstar center Auston Matthews sidelined for the next week, Tavares has moved up to the team’s top line. He has 11 goals and 14 assists for 25 points over his last 24 games versus the Kings, including a four-game point streak entering the contest. Tavares has scored in six of his last eight games against Los Angeles and has totaled 21 points in his last 18 matchups. Entering Thursday, he is red hot with goals in three of his last four games, contributing five points.

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.

Thursday's NHL schedule is a loaded ten games, packed with excitement and promise fast-paced action, dramatic finishes, and plenty of highlight-reel moments. One of the most compelling games of the night features the red hot Anaheim Ducks facing off against the ice cold Detroit Red Wings, who've lost four of their last five games. The Ducks look to rebound after suffering a 4-1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche Tuesday and build on their 11-4-1 start with a win on Thursday. 

For those following our betting challenge, we began with a $10 bankroll and aim to grow it through smart, data-driven wagers. Past runs have turned small stakes into triple-digit profits, and tonight’s focus is the Red Wings-Ducks matchup, which offers another strong opportunity to build momentum.

Our bankroll had reached $264.60 before a setback in last Tuesday’s Golden Knights and Red Wings game. After a successful bet on the Mammoth beating the Sabres on Wednesday, our current bankroll stands at $72.76 and we're ready to keep our hot streak going once again. 

All betting lines are from BetMGM Sportsbook and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly. 

Sign up with BetMGM, make a deposit, and place your first wager on any game using your First Bet Offer token. If that bet with the token applied loses, you’ll get your original stake paid back in Bonus Bets, up to $1,500! Get in the game today with BetMGM.

Are The Boston Bruins For Real?Boston's impressive win streak ignites debate. Can Pastrnak and Geekie lead this resurgent team past last year's playoff disappointment?

Picks: Red Wings +2.5 & Over 5.5 Goals (-114)

Despite recent trends, the Red Wings enter this matchup as favorites, which isn't surprising given the history between these two teams. Just two weeks ago, the Ducks defeated Detroit, but prior to that, the Red Wings had dominated at home, winning 16 of their last 23 matchups against Anaheim. Overall, Anaheim has struggled in the Motor City, claiming just two victories in eight trips. If the Ducks hope to end that skid, they’ll need to bring their best effort.

Both teams are poised for a potential turnaround. Detroit is coming off three straight losses and could use a bounce-back performance, while Anaheim’s impressive run of seven wins in their last eight games suggests they might be due for a setback. Offensively, both squads boast elite talent with Anaheim’s 20-year-old top-line center, Leo Carlsson, being one of the biggest surprises of the season. The early season breakout has 26 points in 16 games, second only to Nathan MacKinnon in league scoring. Carlsson has historically excelled against Detroit, tallying points in all four career matchups with a goal and seven assists. His play will be crucial in keeping the Ducks competitive.

Goaltending will be a major storyline, as both teams have struggled between the pipes. Anaheim is expected to give regular starter Lukas Dostal the night off, turning instead to backup Petr Mrazek. The 33-year-old former Red Wings netminder has had a rough start to the season, posting a 4.57 goals-against average and an .865 save percentage over three games, allowing 14 goals. In his career against Detroit, Mrazek has a 3.26 GAA and .878 save percentage over 16 games. In net for Detroit is former Ducks star John Gibson, whose homecoming to Anaheim didn’t go well as he allowed four goals on 31 shots in his first game back. 

With elite offenses on both sides and goaltenders in tough form, this game is likely to see plenty of scoring. Ultimately, the Red Wings will look to leverage their home advantage and historical dominance over the Ducks to secure a much-needed win, while Anaheim will rely on Carlsson and their hot offense to stay in the fight. A wager on the Red Wings and the over at -114 odds with an $72.76 bankroll would return a profit of $64.03, for a total payout of $136.79 in return.

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.

Tuesday’s NHL slate is full of excitement, featuring nine high-stakes matchups that promise fast-paced action, dramatic finishes, and plenty of highlight-reel moments.

One of the most intriguing games of the night is the rivalry between the Boston Bruins and the Toronto Maple Leafs. The teams faced off over the weekend, with the Bruins upsetting the Maple Leafs to secure their fifth consecutive win. Toronto will look to bounce back after winning five of their previous six games before Saturday’s loss.

For those following our betting challenge, we start with a modest $10 bankroll and aim to grow it through strategic, data-driven wagers. In past runs, we have successfully turned profits into triple-digit totals. Tonight, our focus is on the Bruins-Leafs matchup, offering a prime opportunity to continue building.

Our bankroll had climbed to $264.60 before a setback in last Tuesday’s Golden Knights–Red Wings game. However, we’re ready to get back on track after building our current bankroll to $18.80 following the Blue Jackets’ cover against the Oilers on Monday.

All betting lines are from BetMGM Sportsbook and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly. 

Sign up with BetMGM, make a deposit, and place your first wager on any game using your First Bet Offer token. If that bet with the token applied loses, you’ll get your original stake paid back in Bonus Bets, up to $1,500! Get in the game today with BetMGM.

Are The Boston Bruins For Real?Boston's impressive win streak ignites debate. Can Pastrnak and Geekie lead this resurgent team past last year's playoff disappointment?

Pick: Bruins +2.5 & Over 5.5 Goals (+115)

The Maple Leafs have struggled with both of their goaltenders unavailable, particularly with Joseph Woll away from the team. Woll returned to the ice for a conditioning stint on Sunday, but he is unlikely to play anytime soon.

This means Toronto will once again rely on Anthony Stolarz. The 31-year-old goaltender has carried a heavy load early in the season without Woll, starting 12 games and posting a 6-5-1 record with a 3.35 goals-against average.

In the past, having Woll as a backup allowed the Leafs to rotate goalies if one got cold. However, backups Cayden Primeau and Dennis Hildeby have struggled, giving up a combined 19 goals in just five starts. Stolarz has been forced to carry the bulk of the workload, which benefits the Bruins. That was clear in Saturday’s matchup when Boston scored four goals on 19 shots, forcing Stolarz out of the game in favor of Hildeby.

Games between the Bruins and Leafs have been high-scoring in recent years with four of their last five meetings totaling seven or more goals. The trend is likely to continue as Toronto ranks third-worst in goals allowed with 60 in 16 games, while Boston ranks eighth with 56 goals allowed in 17 games.

Both teams also have potent offenses with Auston Matthews and William Nylander helping Toronto to the third-best scoring unit in the league with 59 goals, while Boston also ranks in the top seven with 56 goals, led by stars David Pastrnak and the red-hot Morgan Geekie.

Many expect a Maple Leafs bounce-back, but the smarter play is to back the Bruins, who have won six games in a row and seven of their last ten home matchups against Toronto.

A wager on the Bruins and the over at +115 odds with an $18.80 bankroll would return a profit of $21.62, for a total payout of $40.42. With a strong NHL slate scheduled for Wednesday, this is an ideal opportunity to build momentum and grow the bankroll.

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.

The Boston Bruins have the hockey world wondering if the B’s are officially back. After stringing together five consecutive wins, Boston has climbed to second place in the Atlantic Division, trailing only the Montreal Canadiens. Oddsmakers seem confident in Montreal’s strong start, giving the Habs -277 odds to make the playoffs but what about Boston’s chances?

The Bruins didn’t just miss the playoffs last season; they were among the league’s bottom teams, finishing with a rough 33-39-10 record. This year, Boston’s resurgent start to the season has not done much to shift perceptions. The Bruins now hold +425 odds to make the postseason, thanks largely to their hot start and standout performances from their top players.

Bank On Blue Jackets Exploiting Oilers’ Leaky DefenseCan the Blue Jackets' offense exploit the Oilers' shaky goaltending? Expect fireworks as both teams battle to break winless streaks.

Superstar winger David Pastrnak has led the charge with eight goals and 11 assists for 19 points in 17 games, reminding fans why he’s considered one of the NHL’s elite scorers. His new linemate, 27-year-old Morgan Geekie, has been a revelation. Following a breakout 57-point campaign last year, Geekie has picked up where he left off, tallying 11 goals, which is tied for third in the league, along with four assists for 15 points through 17 games.

Offseason addition Viktor Arvidsson is also making his mark. After being traded away by Edmonton for next to nothing following a disappointing 27-point season, Arvidsson is finding new life in Boston’s top six. With eight points in 17 games, he’s on pace for just under 40 points, his best projection since posting 59 with the Kings two years ago.

Center Pavel Zacha has quietly been a consistent producer as well, registering four goals and ten assists for 14 points while anchoring the second line alongside Arvidsson. On the back end, Charlie McAvoy has been thriving offensively, racking up 12 assists in 16 games, his best pace in recent memory.

Still, Boston’s turnaround hasn’t been without questions. While their five-game winning streak has sparked excitement, it hasn’t come against the stiffest competition. Three of those victories came in overtime against the Sabres, Senators, and Islanders, and their win over the injury-depleted Maple Leafs raised some eyebrows. Their most impressive outing was a 2–1 triumph over the Eastern Conference favorite Hurricanes, where goaltender Jeremy Swayman stole the show with 28 saves on 29 shots.

The coming weeks will be crucial as Boston faces several of the same teams it narrowly edged out, including Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Carolina, before embarking on a California road trip. That stretch could prove tricky, as even strong teams like the Jets have stumbled against the improving Sharks, Ducks, and Kings.

If the Bruins drop a few games but maintain the strong fundamentals that fueled their win streak, the narrative around them could continue to shift. For now, though, it’s fair to question whether Boston’s hot streak is truly sustainable or just a temporary spark. 

Jack Eichel’s MVP Case Strengthens Amid Golden Knights’ Dominant StartEichel's offensive explosion fuels the Golden Knights' hot streak. Can this star-studded lineup carry him to MVP glory?

All betting lines are from BetMGM Sportsbook and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly. 

Sign up with BetMGM, make a deposit, and place your first wager on any game using your First Bet Offer token. If that bet with the token applied loses, you’ll get your original stake paid back in Bonus Bets, up to $1,500! Get in the game today with BetMGM.

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.

Monday’s NHL slate may be small, but it’s packed with excitement as four high-stakes matchups promise fast-paced action, dramatic finishes, and plenty of highlight-reel moments. One of the night’s most intriguing games features the Columbus Blue Jackets taking on the defending back-to-back Western Conference champion Edmonton Oilers.

Columbus enters the matchup on a three-game skid, while Edmonton has also struggled with losses in six of its last eight. Both teams are desperate to turn things around. The Blue Jackets are looking to rediscover the momentum that fueled their earlier four-game winning streak, and the Oilers are eager to restore their reputation after suffering a 9–1 blowout loss to the league-leading Colorado Avalanche on Saturday.

For those following our betting challenge, we start with a modest $10 bankroll and aim to grow it through smart, data-driven wagers. In past runs, we’ve turned profits into triple-digit totals. Tonight’s same-game parlay focuses on the Oilers–Blue Jackets matchup, presenting a great opportunity to rebound after our recent hot streak cooled off. Our bankroll had climbed to $264.60 before taking a loss in last Tuesday’s Golden Knights–Red Wings game, but we’re ready to get back on track.

All betting lines are from BetMGM Sportsbook and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly. 

Sign up with BetMGM, make a deposit, and place your first wager on any game using your First Bet Offer token. If that bet with the token applied loses, you’ll get your original stake paid back in Bonus Bets, up to $1,500! Get in the game today with BetMGM.

Are The Pittsburgh Penguins For Real?Crosby and Malkin are revitalized, leading league-leading Penguins. Can this aging core sustain a Stanley Cup push with solid goaltending and surprisingly deep support?

Picks: Blue Jackets +1.5 & Over 4.5 Goals (-114)

The Oilers’ long-standing goaltending issues continue to be a major problem, with no stability in net. This weakness has cost them dearly during both of their recent Stanley Cup Final runs. So far this season, Edmonton is allowing an average of 3.44 goals per game, ranking among the NHL’s bottom five teams defensively. Their offense has not been able to make up the difference, which was clear on Saturday when they were dominated at home by Colorado.

Heading into Monday’s matchup, the Oilers will be desperate for a strong response after widespread criticism suggesting they lack what it takes to make the playoffs, let alone return to the Stanley Cup Final.

The Blue Jackets are also looking to end their recent skid. Even though they enter as significant underdogs, they have won five of their last seven meetings with Edmonton. Goals should be expected in this matchup, as these teams have combined for four or more goals in 11 straight games against each other.

Columbus has also struggled on the defensive end, ranking 12th-worst in the league with a 3.21 goals-against average this season. However, the Blue Jackets have been strong against the spread, going 8-3 when listed as underdogs. The Oilers, in contrast, have one of the league’s worst betting records at 4-12 against the spread this season.

With a $10 bankroll, a wager on the Blue Jackets and the over at -114 odds would return a profit of $8.80 for a total payout of $18.80. With a full NHL slate scheduled for Tuesday, it is an ideal opportunity to build on momentum and continue growing the bankroll.

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.

Thursday’s NHL schedule features nine games filled with high-stakes matchups, promising fast-paced action, dramatic finishes, and plenty of highlight-reel moments. One of the night’s most compelling showdowns pits Sidney Crosby and the Penguins against his longtime rival Alex Ovechkin and the Capitals.

Pittsburgh started strong at 8-2-2 but has dropped four of its last six. The team now looks to rebound at home against a Washington squad coming off a dominant 6-1 win over St. Louis and facing a quick turnaround.

This matchup offers plenty of intrigue for fans and bettors alike, with the potential for explosive scoring and standout individual performances. We’re aiming to build on early-season momentum after a perfect 3-0 Tuesday on Stars-Oilers picks, plus a win in Wednesday’s Pad Stack Challenge. That challenge now holds a 5-1 record over the past six days.

All betting lines are from BetMGM Sportsbook and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly. 

Sign up with BetMGM, make a deposit, and place your first wager on any game using your First Bet Offer token. If that bet with the token applied loses, you’ll get your original stake paid back in Bonus Bets, up to $1,500! Get in the game today with BetMGM.

Expect Offensive Fireworks As Lightning Take On Golden Knights in VegasWitness a high-octane showdown as the offensively potent Lightning aim to exploit the Golden Knights' recent struggles on home ice.

Pittsburgh Penguins vs Washington Capitals Best Bets

Penguins ML (-105)

Alex Ovechkin Over 0.5 Points (-154)

Ben Kindel Over 0.5 Points (+115)

Bryan Rust Anytime Goal (+175) Longshot Pick

Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin are set to face off again on Thursday, continuing one of the NHL’s most storied rivalries. The Penguins will look to build on their rest from Monday’s game, while the Capitals aim to regroup after a dominant win on Wednesday that ended a four-game losing streak.

Both teams have split their last eight matchups, making this an evenly matched contest. Pittsburgh should be able to hold onto the upper hand of rest as Washington will have the fatigue of playing the night before as well as travelling. The Capitals also used a good amount of their offense Wednesday when blowing out the Blues 6-1 and could fail to follow up the performance. 

History suggests this could be another tight battle as Crosby and Ovechkin have squared off 99 times, with 73 regular-season games and 25 playoff matchups. Over those matchups, Crosby has racked up 125 points, with Ovechkin recorded 101 points. The Penguins hold the edge in this clash between two hockey legends with a 55-39-4 record, although recent games have often been closely contested.

Ovechkin, fresh off his 900th career goal on Wednesday versus the St. Louis Blues, remains a reliable offensive threat, having scored in his last game against the Penguins in April. Crosby continues to drive Pittsburgh’s attack, while his linemate in 18-year-old Ben Kindel has been an impactful rookie after being drafted 11th overall this past draft and looks poised to make his mark with his first career NHL assist.

Crosby or his longtime winger Bryan Rust, who scored 31 goals last season, should be able to get Kindel his milestone with Rust entering Thursday with seven goals in his last 11 games against Washington as well as four goals over his last six games.

Offensively, both teams have shown flashes of explosiveness, including two consecutive matchups with seven or more combined goals. However, the overall trend of their head-to-head history suggests that high-scoring games are not guaranteed, with only 14 of the last 25 meetings exceeding seven goals.

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.

Thursday’s NHL slate features nine games packed with high-stakes matchups, setting the stage for fast-paced action, dramatic finishes, and plenty of highlight-reel moments. One of the evening’s most compelling showdowns is the Tampa Bay Lightning taking on the Vegas Golden Knights. 

Vegas is coming off a narrow 1-0 win over the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday but has managed just two wins in its last five games. The Golden Knights will aim to build on that victory and defend their home ice, where they’ve traditionally been dominant. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay enters the game looking to bounce back after a loss to the Colorado Avalanche that snapped a five-game winning streak, a stretch that included a 2-1 home victory over these same Golden Knights.

For those new to our betting challenge, we start with a modest bankroll of $10 and work to grow it through smart, data-driven bets. In previous runs, we’ve turned our profits into triple-digit totals. Tonight’s same-game parlay zeroes in on the Tampa-Vegas matchup, offering a prime chance to regain momentum after our recent hot streak cooled off. 

Our bankroll had climbed to $264.60 before taking a loss in Tuesday’s Golden Knights-Red Wings game, but we’re back on track with a current total of $21.50 after cashing in on our picks from the Maple Leafs’ win over the Utah Mammoth on Wednesday. 

Jack Eichel’s MVP Case Strengthens Amid Golden Knights’ Dominant StartEichel's offensive explosion fuels the Golden Knights' hot streak. Can this star-studded lineup carry him to MVP glory?

All betting lines are from BetMGM Sportsbook and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly. 

Sign up with BetMGM, make a deposit, and place your first wager on any game using your First Bet Offer token. If that bet with the token applied loses, you’ll get your original stake paid back in Bonus Bets, up to $1,500! Get in the game today with BetMGM.

Picks: Over 4.5 Goals & Lightning First Period +0.5 (-115)

The Golden Knights rarely struggle against many opponents, but the Lightning are one team they haven’t quite figured out yet. After losing to Tampa Bay earlier this season, Vegas has now dropped four of their last five matchups against the Bolts, following a stretch where the Golden Knights had won four of the previous five. This could be a potential bounce-back game for Vegas, though history suggests a tough battle ahead. The two teams have alternated wins in all seven of their meetings in Las Vegas, and if the trend continues, Thursday would be Tampa Bay’s turn to win and even the series at four victories each.

With two elite teams on the ice, the difference-makers will need to step up, as both rosters have players capable of taking over a game. Tampa’s 2–1 win earlier this season was also the first time in the history of the matchup that the teams combined for fewer than five goals, which suggests an offensive surge could be on the horizon Thursday night.

To boost the odds, adding another leg to the parlay makes sense, focusing on Tampa Bay’s strong first-period performances with the Lightning holding a +3 first-period goal differential this season, compared to the Vegas’ -1 mark this season. That number improves to +4 for Tampa on the road, while Vegas shows a modest increase to +1 at home. 

With a current bankroll of $21.50, a wager on the Lightning and the over at -115 odds would return a profit of $18.92, bringing the payout to $40.42 in return. With a full NHL slate lined up for Friday, it’s the perfect opportunity to ride the momentum and keep building the bankroll.

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.

Five exciting NHL matchups are on the slate, promising fast-paced action, thrilling finishes, and plenty of highlight-reel moments on Wednesday. One of the night’s most compelling games features the young Chicago Blackhawks taking on the Vancouver Canucks, with former Blackhawks 2020 first-round pick Lukas Reichel facing his old team.

This matchup offers plenty of intrigue for fans and bettors alike, with the potential for high-scoring plays and standout individual performances. We’re aiming to build on our early-season momentum after a perfect 3-0 night Tuesday, when all three of our Stars-Oilers picks were correct, while continuing the success of last year’s player prop selections, which included winners like Mitch Marner, Mark Scheifele, Wyatt Johnston, Rasmus Dahlin, Teuvo Teravainen and Connor Hellebuyck.

All betting lines are from BetMGM Sportsbook and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly. 

Sign up with BetMGM, make a deposit, and place your first wager on any game using your First Bet Offer token. If that bet with the token applied loses, you’ll get your original stake paid back in Bonus Bets, up to $1,500! Get in the game today with BetMGM.

Mammoth Set To Push Maple Leafs in Wild Scoring FrenzyThe Red-hot Utah Mammoth challenge Toronto's high-powered offense in a potential goal-scoring explosion.

Vancouver Canucks vs Chicago Blackhawks Best Bets

Canucks ML (-169)

Lukas Reichel Over 0.5 Points (+155)

Quinn Hughes Over 0.5 Assists (-154)

Canucks Over 3.5 Goals (-105)

Vancouver has dominated Chicago in recent history, winning 11 straight matchups against the Blackhawks. Chicago’s last victory in this series came in November 2021, when they narrowly edged the Canucks in a 1-0 win. Overall, Vancouver commands a 20-2-1 record in their last 23 games against Chicago.

Wednesday’s game carries added intrigue as a “revenge” story for Lukas Reichel. Once regarded as a potential star in Chicago, Reichel has long been linked to trade rumors due to frustration with the organization. 

Struggling to secure a consistent spot in the Blackhawks’ lineup, he was traded to Vancouver, where he now gets a second chance. In Vancouver, he’s playing second-line minutes alongside experienced wingers like Jake DeBrusk and Brock Boeser. Despite a hot start to the season in Chicago, recording four points in his first six games, Reichel has yet to tally a point in six outings with the Canucks. He may finally find his footing against his former team, especially with Chicago’s defense showing signs of vulnerability.

The Blackhawks began the season solidly, posting a 4-2-2 record in their first eight games. However, they’ve struggled recently, going 1-3-1 while allowing 18 goals over their last five contests. Their offense has stalled, producing just 14 goals in that stretch, seven of which came in a single 7-3 win over the Ottawa Senators last Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the Canucks have dealt with significant injury issues, with key players Nils Höglander, Filip Chytil, Connor Garland, and Teddy Blueger all sidelined. This has contributed to inconsistency, as seen in their 5-4 overtime win over the Nashville Predators on Monday. Vancouver gave up two late goals to tie the game on the road but quickly regained momentum with a game-winning goal from Brock Boeser in overtime. The Canucks have alternated wins and losses in each of their last six games, and a win on Wednesday would not only break that cycle but also give a boost to their playoff push.

Canucks captain Quinn Hughes returned from a four-game absence on Monday but did not record a point. Hughes has historically excelled against Chicago, tallying points in six straight games versus the Blackhawks, totaling ten points over his last 11 games against them. He could be primed for a bounce-back performance in this matchup and help Reichel get on the board in the process. 

Are The Pittsburgh Penguins For Real?Crosby and Malkin are revitalized, leading league-leading Penguins. Can this aging core sustain a Stanley Cup push with solid goaltending and surprisingly deep support?

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Wednesday’s NHL schedule features five games filled with marquee matchups, promising fast-paced action, dramatic finishes, and highlight-worthy moments. One of the night’s most intriguing games has the Toronto Maple Leafs coming off a thrilling four-goal comeback win over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Monday. They now face one of the league’s hottest teams, the 9-4-0 Utah Mammoth.

If you’re new to our betting challenge, here’s how it works. We start with a modest bankroll and aim to grow it using smart, data-driven wagers. In past runs, we’ve turned just $10 into triple-digit profits. Tonight, our same-game parlay focuses on the Toronto-Utah matchup, providing a great opportunity to rebuild momentum after our recent hot streak came to an end. Our bankroll had climbed to $264.60 before taking a loss in Tuesday’s Golden Knights win over the Red Wings. Now we’re ready to heat back up and continue the climb after going a perfect 3-0 with our picks in last night’s Oilers-Stars game.

All betting lines are from BetMGM Sportsbook and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly. 

Sign up with BetMGM, make a deposit, and place your first wager on any game using your First Bet Offer token. If that bet with the token applied loses, you’ll get your original stake paid back in Bonus Bets, up to $1,500! Get in the game today with BetMGM.

Are The Pittsburgh Penguins For Real?Crosby and Malkin are revitalized, leading league-leading Penguins. Can this aging core sustain a Stanley Cup push with solid goaltending and surprisingly deep support?

Picks: Mammoth +2.5 & Over 5.5 Goals (+115)

The Utah Mammoth have begun their first season under their new identity in impressive fashion, suffering only four losses so far. However, they will look to rebound on Wednesday after dropping two of their last three games. Their recent struggles have come from defensive lapses rather than offensive shortcomings, as they still managed to score five goals despite giving up ten in those two defeats. The defense showed improvement in Tuesday’s 2-1 overtime win against the Buffalo Sabres.

Utah now heads to Toronto for the second leg of their road back-to-back. The Maple Leafs feature one of the league’s top offenses this season, ranking third in goals scored, but they have also struggled defensively, ranking fifth-worst in that category. Toronto’s stars William Nylander and Auston Matthews led the way in a 4-3 win over the Penguins on Monday, combining for three of the team’s four goals, while Matthews assisted Bobby McMann on the fourth. The Leafs’ top players appear to be heating up as they try to climb out of an early 7-5-1 start.

Utah should be able to challenge Toronto’s attack with their own strong offense, which sits just inside the league’s top ten. The Mammoth have developed a reputation for competing hard in tough matchups, holding a 6-4 record against the spread over their last ten games. Toronto has faced Utah only twice in franchise history, winning both games by a single goal, with each contest featuring six or more total goals.

A $10 wager on the Mammoth and the over at +115 odds would cashed for a $11.50 profit, pushing the total payout to $21.50 in return. With a loaded NHL slate ahead on Thursday, it’s the perfect time to ride the momentum and keep stacking that bankroll. 

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.