The NHL slate features nine compelling matchups today, headlined by key battles between the Bruins-Sharks, Avalanche-Wild, and a crucial Western Conference showdown between the Golden Knights and Blues.
Our NHL best bets and expert picks spotlight several intriguing trends, including the Bruins' potent offense against the struggling Sharks defense, the Avalanche's dominant home performance winning six of their last eight, and the Golden Knights' impressive 3.37 goals per game average.
From puck line opportunities to promising over/under plays, today's analysis reveals multiple value betting spots across the board, with particular attention to teams excelling on home ice.
NHL Best Bets
| Game | Time | Pick |
|---|---|---|
  | 1:00 PM | Bruins -1.5 (+105) |
  | 3:00 PM | Over 6 goals (-110) |
  | 6:00 PM | Vegas Golden Knights ML (-170) |
Bruins vs. Sharks
Monday, Jan 20
1:00 PM
TD Garden, Boston, MA
The Boston Bruins enter this matchup as heavy favorites against a struggling San Jose Sharks team that has been particularly vulnerable on the road.
The Sharks' defensive woes are evident, allowing an average of 3.44 goals per game, which plays perfectly into the Bruins' offensive strengths led by David Pastrnak and Brad Marchand.
Boston's home ice advantage has been significant this season, with their defensive unit showing particular strength in front of their own crowd.
The Bruins' offensive firepower, combined with the Sharks' scoring difficulties (averaging only 2.54 goals per game), suggests a multi-goal victory is likely.
Historical data supports this prediction, with the Bruins consistently covering the puck line at home against bottom-tier teams.
Avalanche vs. Wild
Monday, Jan 20
3:00 PM
Ball Arena, Denver, CO
The Colorado Avalanche's offensive prowess has been on full display recently, scoring 20 goals in their past six home games.
Minnesota's defensive corps is severely depleted, missing key players Spurgeon and Faber, leading to increased shot attempts against them.
The Wild's penalty kill ranks 31st in the NHL, creating prime scoring opportunities for Colorado's elite power play unit featuring MacKinnon and Rantanen.
Recent head-to-head meetings have produced high-scoring affairs, with their previous encounter this month resulting in multiple goals.
Both teams have shown defensive vulnerabilities, with Minnesota surrendering four or more goals in four of their past six games.
Golden Knights vs. Blues
Monday, Jan 20
6:00 PM
T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, NV
The Vegas Golden Knights have demonstrated exceptional form on home ice, averaging 3.37 goals per game this season.
Their defensive unit, allowing only 2.74 goals per game, has been particularly effective at limiting opposing offenses.
The Blues have struggled offensively, averaging just 2.81 goals per game and scoring only nine goals in their last four matches.
Vegas's top line, featuring Jack Eichel and Mark Stone, has shown excellent chemistry and scoring ability.
The Golden Knights' goaltending situation with Adin Hill has provided stability and consistency in crucial home games.
