As the NHL season heats up, tonight's slate features several intriguing matchups with strong betting value, highlighted by the red-hot Ottawa Senators riding a four-game winning streak as they face the struggling Nashville Predators.
Our NHL best bets and picks focus on teams showing defensive excellence, with the Washington Capitals (16-4-5 at home) and New York Islanders (winners of seven of their last eight) standing out as particularly compelling plays.
From analyzing scoring trends to goaltender performances, we've identified several value opportunities across the board, including some promising under plays in what projects to be a defense-heavy evening of hockey.
NHL Best Bets
| Game | Time | Pick |
|---|---|---|
  | 7:00 PM | Washington Capitals ML (+100) |
  | 7:00 PM | Over 5.5 Goals (-110) |
  | 8:00 PM | Edmonton Oilers -1.5 (+150) |
Capitals vs. Panthers
Tuesday, Feb 4
7:00 PM
Capital One Arena, Washington, DC
The Washington Capitals have been dominant on home ice this season with an impressive 16-4-5 record, making them a formidable opponent at Capital One Arena.
While Florida has shown strength recently, they're facing potential fatigue playing their third game in four nights, which could significantly impact their typically aggressive offensive approach.
The Capitals have demonstrated superior defensive capabilities, ranking 2nd in the league in goals against, providing a solid foundation for their home ice advantage.
Historical data shows Washington already defeated Florida as an underdog earlier this season, suggesting they match up well against the Panthers.
The Capitals' defensive prowess combined with Florida's potential fatigue points toward a tight, low-scoring affair that favors the home team.
Bruins vs. Wild
Tuesday, Feb 4
7:00 PM
TD Garden, Boston, MA
The Boston Bruins have been involved in high-scoring affairs lately, with the over hitting in eight of their last ten games.
Boston's recent offensive output has been impressive with 37 goals in their last ten games, though they've also conceded 36 in that span.
Minnesota has shown better offensive production on the road, averaging 3.14 goals per game as visitors.
Historical trends support this bet, with the over hitting in three of the last five meetings between these teams.
The Bruins' recent defensive inconsistency combined with both teams' scoring capability suggests a high-scoring game is likely.
Blues vs. Oilers
Tuesday, Feb 4
8:00 PM
Enterprise Center, Saint Louis, MO
The Edmonton Oilers have demonstrated strong road performance, winning three of their last four away games.
St. Louis is struggling significantly, having lost four of their last five games and sitting seven points outside of a playoff spot.
The Blues' recent offensive woes are particularly concerning, scoring two or fewer goals in five consecutive games, while Edmonton leads the NHL in shots on goal.
The Oilers' offensive firepower, led by McDavid and Draisaitl, matches up favorably against a Blues team that has lost their last five games by multiple goals.
Edmonton's high-powered offense (averaging 3.42 expected goals per game, 3rd in NHL) should exploit St. Louis's recent defensive struggles.
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