Tonight's NHL slate features several compelling matchups, with the red-hot Detroit Red Wings looking to extend their impressive seven-game winning streak against a struggling San Jose Sharks team that has dropped eight of their last ten.
Our NHL best bets spotlight key divisional battles, including a crucial Atlantic Division showdown between the Tampa Bay Lightning and Boston Bruins, where Tampa's league-leading offense (3.68 goals per game) faces a Bruins squad that's gone 2-7 in their last nine games.
From defensive struggles to offensive explosions, today's NHL picks focus on several notable trends, including six games with strong under/over indicators based on recent team performances and head-to-head histories.
NHL Best Bets
| Game | Time | Pick |
|---|---|---|
  | 7:00 PM | Detroit Red Wings -1.5 (+140) |
  | 7:00 PM | Tampa Bay Lightning ML (-125) |
  | 7:00 PM | Over 6 goals (-110) |
Red Wings vs. Sharks
Tuesday, Jan 14
7:00 PM
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI
The Detroit Red Wings have been on an impressive run, winning their last seven games and showing remarkable offensive prowess with four or more goals in nearly every victory during this streak.
San Jose Sharks have been particularly vulnerable, dropping eight of their last ten games and showing significant defensive weaknesses that Detroit's high-powered offense can exploit.
Historical data shows six of the Sharks' last eight losses have been by two or more goals, supporting the puck line bet.
The Red Wings' defensive improvements are notable, allowing two or fewer goals in three of their last four games.
Detroit's home ice advantage combined with their current momentum and the Sharks' road struggles make this a compelling bet.
Bruins vs. Lightning
Tuesday, Jan 14
7:00 PM
TD Garden, Boston, MA
Tampa Bay has demonstrated their dominance as the NHL's leading offensive team, averaging 3.68 goals per game.
The Lightning's recent victory over Boston (4-1) showcases their ability to handle this matchup, particularly with their superior offensive depth.
Boston's current form is concerning, going 2-7 in their last nine games and struggling defensively by allowing three or more goals in their last five games.
The Lightning's fourth-best powerplay unit gives them a significant advantage against Boston's recent defensive vulnerabilities.
Despite playing their third game in four nights, Tampa Bay's offensive firepower and recent head-to-head success against Boston (winning last three meetings) make this a strong play.
Penguins vs. Kraken
Tuesday, Jan 14
7:00 PM
PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh, PA
The Penguins' defensive struggles are evident, allowing 3.67 goals per game, which creates opportunities for Seattle's offense.
Both teams have shown offensive capabilities with the Penguins particularly strong at home, led by Sidney Crosby and Rickard Rakell's playmaking abilities.
The Kraken's defensive issues (allowing 3.23 goals per game) combined with Pittsburgh's offensive potential suggests a high-scoring affair.
Recent trends show both teams capable of contributing to the total, with the Kraken allowing 25 goals in their last six games.
The matchup dynamics favor offensive opportunities with both teams' defensive vulnerabilities likely to be exposed.
