Leafs-Hurricanes Showdown Could Be Playoff Preview
The Toronto Maple Leafs have won three out of their last four games, scoring over five goals in each of those contests. They’ve been working hard to get themselves into a solid position in the standings as the playoffs approach.
If you’ve seen the latest NHL news, the Leafs are three points back of the New Jersey Devils in the standings and can inch up if they keep playing well. Next up is a matchup with the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday, who has already clinched a playoff spot.
Which of these teams is the best bet in this spot?
Leafs Weapons Masking Goaltending Woes
It’s not every day that you find a team with so much talent spread across the roster. When it comes to the Leafs offense, they feature four players that have over 70 pointst.
Those who bet online have seen Mitchell Marner shine, leading the way with a team-high 92, followed by William Nylander at 81 and then Auston Matthews at 73 despite playing seven less games
Matthews is playing especially well as he has 12 points in his last eight games. He has picked up a goal and an assist in the two meetings with Carolina this season.
Speaking of those meetings, if you’re looking at the NHL betting odds, consider that the Leafs have won both meetings, scoring at least three goals each time (eight in total) while allowing a total of three.
As for the Leafs goaltending, the offense is doing enough to hide the problems but they’re not performing well right now. Both Matt Murray and Ilya Samsonov have posted save percentages of .892 or worse this month. That’s tough to rely upon if you’re making your NHL picks.
Hurricanes Defensive Issues Cropping Up
Defense has been a strength in Carolina most of the year but it’s showing some cracks. They’re still second in the entire league in goals allowed per game at 2.54. The only team in front of them is the dominant Boston Bruins who are at 2.11.
However, the Hurricanes have faded lately as they’re allowing 3.3 goals per game over their last eight.
Frederik Andersen continues to get the most starts for this team but he’s posted an .897 save percentage this month. If the Hurricanes can’t tighten up at this end, they’re playoff run won’t last very long.
Maple Leafs vs Hurricanes Game Injuries
Maple Leafs vs Hurricanes Head-to-Head
Toronto has won both previous matchups against the Hurricanes so far this season, outscoring the Canes 8-3.
Maple Leafs vs Hurricanes Game Information
- Game: Maple Leafs (43-19-9) vs Hurricanes (46-16-8)
- Location: PNC Arena, Raleigh, NC
- Day/Time: Saturday, March 25, 7:00 p.m. ET
- Maple Leafs vs Hurricanes Live Stream: NHL.TV
Maple Leafs vs Hurricanes Betting Lines
Maple Leafs vs Hurricanes Pick and Prediction
The Leafs are likely the better play on the side given that they have won both meetings and seem to have the Canes number. However, the better option in the sportsbook might be the over.
Both sets of goaltenders aren’t exactly shining right now with most of them under the .900 save percentage mark this month. That being the case, look for a high-scoring affair and an over for your sports bets.
Carolina is listed at -145 in our Vegas lines. So, if you wager $100 on the Hurricanes, there’s a chance to win $69. Toronto is +125 with a chance to win $125 on a $100 wager.
The implied probability attached to the betting lines gives the Maple Leafs a 44.44% chance to win, with the Hurricanes at 59.18%.
Maple Leafs vs Hurricanes Trends
Maple Leafs vs Hurricanes Edge
Maple Leafs vs Hurricanes Results
Maple Leafs vs Hurricanes Summary
