The NHL slate features four compelling matchups tonight, headlined by a red-hot Dallas Stars team looking to extend their dominance at home against the Vancouver Canucks.
Our NHL best bets and expert picks spotlight several intriguing opportunities, including the Stars' impressive 18-7-1 home record and a potentially high-scoring affair between the Predators and Sabres.
From defensive battles to offensive showcases, tonight's games offer diverse betting angles with particularly strong value found in totals markets and puckline opportunities.
NHL Best Bets
| Game | Time | Pick |
|---|---|---|
  | 7:00 PM | Over 6 Goals (-110) |
  | 8:00 PM | Dallas Stars -1.5 (+154) |
  | 9:00 PM | Over 5.5 Goals (-125) |
Sabres vs. Predators
Friday, Jan 31
7:00 PM
KeyBank Center, Buffalo, NY
Both the Predators and Sabres have shown defensive weaknesses, with Nashville allowing 3.20 goals per game and Buffalo conceding 3.40.
The Sabres' offense has been clicking recently, scoring nine goals in their last two games, showcasing their offensive firepower.
Nashville's defensive struggles are highlighted by allowing eight goals in their last two games, suggesting vulnerability.
Buffalo's offensive weapons, including Tage Thompson and Alex Tuch, have been particularly effective in creating scoring opportunities.
The combination of both teams' defensive issues and Buffalo's recent offensive surge makes the over a strong play.
Stars vs. Canucks
Friday, Jan 31
8:00 PM
American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX
The Dallas Stars have been absolutely dominant at home this season, boasting an impressive 18-7-1 record at the American Airlines Center.
The Stars enter this matchup with a significant rest advantage, having last played on Tuesday while Vancouver completed a game just yesterday.
Vancouver's road offense has been mediocre, averaging only 2.88 goals per game away from home, which plays perfectly into Dallas's strong home defense.
The Stars have demonstrated their resilience recently, coming off a dramatic overtime victory against Vegas and carrying momentum into this home stand.
Dallas's defensive prowess at home, allowing just 2.23 goals per game, makes the -1.5 spread a compelling value proposition.
Avalanche vs. Blues
Friday, Jan 31
9:00 PM
Ball Arena, Denver, CO
The Avalanche's recent goaltending struggles are evident, with Mackenzie Blackwood allowing 18 goals in his last five starts.
Colorado's backup Scott Wedgewood hasn't fared much better, conceding 14 goals in his last five appearances.
The Blues have maintained consistent offensive production, scoring multiple goals in six of their last seven games.
Colorado's high-powered offense remains potent even without Valeri Nichushkin, as demonstrated in their recent 5-4 victory over the Rangers.
Both teams' recent defensive vulnerabilities and Colorado's aggressive offensive style point to a high-scoring affair.
