The NHL slate features four compelling matchups tonight, headlined by a high-scoring potential showdown between the Florida Panthers and Colorado Avalanche that has experts eyeing the over 6.5 goals.
Our NHL best bets and expert picks spotlight several intriguing opportunities, including the Washington Capitals looking to extend their impressive 13-6-0 road record against a struggling Buffalo Sabres team.
From powerful offenses to key statistical trends, tonight's NHL action presents several value plays worth considering for bettors seeking an edge.
NHL Best Bets
| Game | Time | Pick |
|---|---|---|
  | 7:00 PM | Washington Capitals ML (-145) |
  | 9:00 PM | Over 6.5 Goals (+102) |
  | 10:00 PM | New Jersey Devils ML (-185) |
Sabres vs. Capitals
Monday, Jan 6
7:00 PM
KeyBank Center, Buffalo, NY
The Washington Capitals have shown impressive form on the road this season with a stellar 13-6-0 record, demonstrating their ability to perform consistently away from home.
In their previous meeting this season, the Capitals secured a convincing 4-2 victory over the Sabres, showing their superiority in head-to-head matchups.
The Capitals are currently averaging 3.72 goals per game, showcasing their offensive prowess and ability to generate scoring opportunities.
Buffalo has been struggling recently, losing their last 3 games while being outscored 13-8, indicating defensive vulnerabilities.
The Sabres' defensive issues are further highlighted by allowing approximately 30 shots per game, which plays into the Capitals' offensive strengths.
Multiple expert sources have identified this as a high-confidence pick, with the Capitals' overall team quality and recent form supporting this selection.
Avalanche vs. Panthers
Monday, Jan 6
9:00 PM
Ball Arena, Denver, CO
Both the Panthers and Avalanche rank among the top nine teams in goals per game, with each averaging over 3 goals per contest.
Their previous meeting this season resulted in an explosive 7-4 game, demonstrating the offensive potential when these teams meet.
Both teams feature elite offensive talent including Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, Alex Barkov, and Matthew Tkachuk who can contribute to a high-scoring affair.
Neither team has shown particularly strong defensive performances this season, with both sitting near the league median in goals against average.
The combination of offensive firepower and mediocre defensive metrics suggests another high-scoring game is likely.
Multiple expert sources have highlighted this as a strong over play, with the attacking nature of both teams supporting this prediction.
Kraken vs. Devils
Monday, Jan 6
10:00 PM
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, WA
The Devils have dominated the head-to-head series with four consecutive victories against the Kraken, including a 3-2 win in their most recent meeting.
Despite recent struggles, New Jersey has consistently proven to be the superior team when facing Seattle, and this matchup presents an opportunity to break their current slump.
The Kraken have been particularly vulnerable lately, going 2-6-1 in their last nine games while struggling defensively, allowing four or more goals in five of their last six games.
Seattle's defensive woes, allowing three or more goals in eight of their last nine games, provide an excellent opportunity for New Jersey's offense to regain its form.
The Devils' overall team quality and historical success against the Kraken make this a strong value play.
Multiple expert sources have identified this as a high-confidence selection, particularly given the favorable matchup dynamics.
