NHL Best Bets Today: Expert NHL Picks for 03/28/2025

The Vancouver Canucks are hitting their stride at just the right time. They've gone 2-1-1 on their current road trip, showing they can handle the grind of away games. With Thatcher Demko back between the pipes and notching two straight wins, the Canucks' defense has solidified.

On the flip side, the Columbus Blue Jackets are in a world of hurt offensively. They've managed to score just one measly goal in their last four home games. That's not just a slump; that's a full-blown offensive crisis. While they did snap a losing streak recently, their overall form is shaky at best.

The Blue Jackets' recent record is abysmal - two wins in their last ten outings. Their offense has dried up, averaging a paltry 1.9 goals per game during this stretch. It's hard to win hockey games when you can't put the puck in the net, and Columbus is learning that lesson the hard way.

Vancouver, meanwhile, has the momentum. They're still in the thick of the playoff race and every point matters. They'll be hungry for a win against a struggling Columbus team. The Canucks have the offensive firepower to exploit the Blue Jackets' defensive weaknesses.

While road games are always tricky, the Canucks have shown they can handle the pressure. Columbus' home-ice advantage seems to have evaporated along with their scoring touch. This game has all the makings of a Canucks victory.

Given the stark contrast in form and offensive output between these two teams, backing the Canucks on the moneyline looks like a smart play. They're the team with something to fight for, and they have the tools to get the job done in Columbus.

The Montreal Canadiens are underdogs heading into their clash with the Carolina Hurricanes, but there's value in backing them on the puck line. While Carolina has been impressive this season, the Habs have shown they can hang tough with the big boys.

Montreal's offense, led by the dynamic duo of Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield, has been clicking lately. They're averaging just shy of 3 goals per game, which is respectable considering the tough competition they've faced. This offensive output gives them a fighting chance to keep things close against Carolina.

The Hurricanes, while formidable, have shown some cracks in their armor recently. They've allowed 5 goals in their last two games, suggesting their usually stingy defense might be showing signs of fatigue as the season wears on. This could open up opportunities for Montreal's speedy forwards.

Carolina's home ice advantage is significant, but Montreal has proven they can perform on the road. The Canadiens have nothing to lose at this point in the season, which often makes teams dangerous. They'll be playing loose and aggressive, looking to spoil Carolina's night.

The puck line gives Montreal a 1.5 goal cushion, which is significant in what could be a tight-checking affair. Even if Carolina pulls out the win, there's a good chance Montreal keeps it within a goal. The Canadiens have been competitive in most of their games this season, rarely getting blown out.

While a straight-up win might be a tall order for Montreal, covering the puck line is well within their capabilities. Their recent offensive form, combined with Carolina's slight defensive dip, makes the +1.5 for Montreal an attractive proposition for bettors looking for value.

The Vegas Golden Knights are poised to dominate their matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks. Vegas has been on a tear lately, winning four of their last five games. This hot streak isn't just a fluke - it's a reflection of their overall season performance, where they've been one of the NHL's top teams.

Chicago, on the other hand, is struggling mightily. They've lost eight of their last nine games and have already been eliminated from playoff contention. The Blackhawks seem to have one skate in the offseason already, while Vegas is battling hard for the Pacific Division title.

The Golden Knights have a significant statistical edge. They're fourth in the league in goals scored and eighth in goals against. Compare that to Chicago, who sit near the bottom in both categories. This disparity in both offensive firepower and defensive solidity heavily favors Vegas.

Historical head-to-head matchups also point towards a Vegas victory. The Golden Knights have won 13 of their last 20 games against the Blackhawks. This psychological edge, combined with their current form, makes Vegas a formidable opponent for a demoralized Chicago team.

The puck line bet (-1.5) for Vegas is particularly appealing given these factors. Vegas isn't just winning games - they're often winning them by multiple goals. Their ability to both score prolifically and shut down opponents defensively makes covering the 1.5 goal spread a realistic proposition.

While no bet is ever a sure thing in the unpredictable world of hockey, all signs point to a convincing Vegas victory. The Golden Knights have the motivation, the form, and the statistical advantages to not just win, but win big against a Chicago team that's playing out the string.