As the NHL playoff race intensifies, Monday's slate features several compelling matchups including the red-hot Avalanche looking to extend their five-game winning streak against the Blackhawks, while the struggling Maple Leafs aim to avoid a fourth straight loss against Utah.
Our NHL best bets and expert picks highlight several value opportunities, with particular attention on the underdog Sabres (+160) hosting the Oilers and an intriguing 7.8% edge on the Blackhawks +1.5 puck line against Colorado.
From goaltending battles to offensive firepower, today's analysis breaks down the key factors driving our predictions across four high-stakes matchups.
NHL best bets
| Game | Time | Pick |
|---|---|---|
  | 7:00 PM | Sabres ML (+160) |
  | 9:00 PM | Avalanche -1.5 (-150) |
  | 10:00 PM | Toronto Maple Leafs ML (-118) |
Sabres vs. Oilers
Monday, Mar 10
7:00 PM
KeyBank Center, Buffalo, NY
The Buffalo Sabres present an intriguing value play as substantial home underdogs against the Oilers.
Advanced analytics and simulation models indicate a 2.3% edge on the Sabres moneyline, suggesting the current odds are slightly mispriced.
The home ice advantage factor appears undervalued in the current betting line.
Buffalo's defensive structure matches up well against Edmonton's high-powered offense.
The probability metrics suggest a 40.8% chance of victory, making the +160 odds particularly attractive for value hunters.
Avalanche vs. Blackhawks
Monday, Mar 10
9:00 PM
Ball Arena, Denver, CO
The Avalanche are riding an impressive five-game winning streak, showcasing their dominance on both ends of the ice.
Colorado's offense has been particularly potent, averaging 3.36 goals per game with stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas leading the charge.
Their defensive unit, anchored by Cale Makar and Devon Toews, has been exceptional in limiting opponents to just 2.95 goals per game.
The Blackhawks have struggled offensively, averaging only 2.77 goals per game, which plays into Colorado's defensive strengths.
Playing on home ice gives the Avalanche an additional advantage, making the puck line a valuable proposition.
Utah vs. Maple Leafs
Monday, Mar 10
10:00 PM
Delta Center, Salt Lake City, UT
The Maple Leafs enter this matchup with a chip on their shoulder, having not lost four straight games in the 2024-25 season.
Despite missing Max Pacioretty, Toronto's offensive firepower remains formidable, with their top two lines consistently producing scoring opportunities.
The Maple Leafs have demonstrated their offensive prowess by scoring at least four goals in five of their last eight games.
Utah, while solid defensively, faces an uphill battle containing Toronto's dynamic offense.
The four-point gap to the final wild card spot puts additional pressure on Utah, which could lead to defensive mistakes against an experienced Toronto squad.
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