NHL Best Bets Today: Expert NHL Picks for 03/14/2025

The Hurricanes have been absolutely dominant on home ice this season, and their recent defensive performances suggest they're hitting their stride at the perfect time. Having allowed just seven goals in their last five games, Carolina's defensive unit led by Jaccob Slavin is showing championship-caliber form.

Detroit's struggles on the road can't be ignored - they're giving up an average of 3.18 goals per game, which plays right into the hands of Carolina's dynamic offense. The Hurricanes' quick-passing attack, spearheaded by Sebastian Aho and Seth Jarvis, should find plenty of opportunities against a Red Wings defense that's been suspect away from home.

Pyotr Kochetkov has been a wall between the pipes for Carolina, and his recent performances suggest he's more than capable of frustrating Detroit's offense, which averages a modest 2.86 goals per game. The Hurricanes' ability to control possession and create turnovers in the neutral zone should limit Detroit's scoring chances significantly.

The matchup dynamics heavily favor Carolina - their structured defensive system matches up perfectly against Detroit's offensive approach, while their forecheck should create numerous transition opportunities. This isn't just about Carolina being the better team; it's about how their strengths directly exploit Detroit's weaknesses.

While laying 1.5 goals always carries risk, the Hurricanes have shown they can win big when firing on all cylinders. Their recent defensive metrics, combined with home-ice advantage and superior special teams play, make this spread worth backing.

This matchup features two of the NHL's premier defensive teams, with both the Jets and Stars boasting elite goaltending that's been particularly sharp lately. Connor Hellebuyck leads the league in several key metrics, including a stellar 1.99 GAA and .927 save percentage.

The Jets' defensive corps, anchored by Dylan DeMelo and Neal Pionk, has been exceptional at limiting high-danger scoring chances. They've allowed just seven goals in their last four games, showcasing their ability to shut down even the most potent offenses.

While Dallas has been scoring well lately, they're facing a Jets team that's particularly stingy at home. The defensive matchup between Thomas Harley and Esa Lindell against Winnipeg's forwards should create a chess match rather than a shootout.

Both teams excel at creating turnovers in the neutral zone and playing responsible positional hockey. This style typically leads to fewer odd-man rushes and more controlled, methodical play - perfect conditions for an under.

The goaltending battle between Hellebuyck and Oettinger should be the story of the night. Both netminders are capable of stealing games, and in a matchup of this magnitude, expect both to be at their best.

The Flames are in a desperate push for a playoff spot, and their recent form - earning points in five straight games - shows they're up for the fight. This urgency factor can't be understated when facing a Colorado team that might be looking ahead to their upcoming rivalry game against Dallas.

Calgary's rookie sensation Dustin Wolf has been nothing short of spectacular, posting a .915 save percentage and showing the ability to steal games. His emergence has given the Flames a legitimate game-changer between the pipes at the perfect time.

The Avalanche have shown some vulnerability on the road, going 2-3 in their last five away games. This road struggle, combined with Calgary's desperate situation and strong goaltending, creates a perfect storm for an upset.

Recent trends show the Flames are particularly tough at home, where they've managed to keep games close and grind out points. Their defensive system has been clicking, allowing three or fewer goals in nine of their last ten games.

While Colorado boasts more star power, they've shown signs of offensive cooling, scoring just four goals in their last two games. Against a Flames team that's found their defensive identity and has everything to play for, this sets up as a prime spot for Calgary.