In perhaps the best game on Saturday’s slate, the Metropolitan Division’s New Jersey Devils host the Atlantic Division’s Florida Panthers. This contest features arguably the two best offenses in hockey, which means a fun and high-scoring contest should be in order.
Will the goal-scoring follow suit, or can the goaltending step up in this clash between two powerhouse offenses? Find out in our free NHL picks and predictions for Panthers vs. Devils on Saturday, December 17.
Panthers vs Devils best odds
Panthers vs Devils picks and predictions
Although neither of these teams has been involved in many high-scoring games lately, now is the time to bet on that trend to change. Analytically, these are two of the best offenses in hockey as, at 5-on-5, Florida ranks second in the league in expected goals for per 60 minutes (xGF/60) while the Devils rank first.
Despite the coaching change, with Paul Maurice coming over from Winnipeg, the Panthers’ fast-paced offense has carried over from last season. Coming off a year where they finished first in the league in xGF/60 at 5-on-5, the team’s philosophy has not changed for a group that incorporates a run-and-gun style.
One thing that has changed from last season is the play of goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky, who is projected to start between the pipes for Florida. It has been a tough year for the veteran netminder, who is just 6-9-1 with a .891 SV% and 3.33 GAA.
Based on his metrics, brighter days are unlikely for Bobrovsky. Among starting goaltenders, he ranks 27th in goals saved above expected per 60 minutes (GSAx/60) at 5-on-5.
Across the ice, goaltender Vitek Vanecek is slated to get the start for New Jersey. Although Vanecek’s surface-level stats are strong this season, his metrics suggest that regression could be looming.
At 5-on-5, he ranks just 23rd among starting goaltenders in GSAx/60. This regression has already started to hit Vanecek lately, posting a .844 SV% and 4.18 GAA over his last three starts.
With two offenses that can score at will slated to go against two goaltenders that are expected to see some tougher days ahead, this should be a great matchup to wager on some goals. There have now been seven or more total goals scored in six of the last seven meetings between these two fast-paced teams, a trend that should continue Saturday night.
My best bet: Over 6.5 (-120 at bet365)
Looking to do some NHL betting? Here are two of the best bonuses* available:
A) New users at FanDuel can get a no-sweat first bet of up to $1,000! Sign Up Now
B) New users at DraftKings can bet $5 and get $150 in free bets! Sign Up Now
*Eligible USA locations only. Also, check out our full list of best sportsbook promotions for 2022.
Panthers vs Devils moneyline analysis
I would lean towards the Devils in this contest, although not confidently enough to pull the trigger. The value is certainly on New Jersey as a short home favorite considering that it boasts the (slightly) better offense, better defense, and better goaltender.
However, for the first time this season, the Devils enter this contest amidst a four-game losing streak. This middle-of-December stretch has not been kind for one of the league’s best teams this season, which is the first time they have faced adversity through the first third of the season.
It will be interesting to see how this group responds, especially considering they are an extremely young team. Will they let this slide get to them and struggle for another week? Or can they leave the past in the past and rebound against a strong Panthers squad?
This uncertainty is why I am avoiding taking the Devils, although I think they will bounce back in this contest.
Panthers vs Devils Over/Under analysis
The one reservation in taking the total is that both teams also boast strong defenses. At 5-on-5, Florida ranks 11th in the league in expected goals against per 60 minutes (xGA/60) while New Jersey ranks second.
Although both offenses outweigh the play of the defenses, each blue line can certainly hold its own. That being said, I am just backing the trend of high-scoring games when these two clubs meet.
It is not a coincidence that we see plenty of goals when the Panthers and Devils square off. Both teams have deep lineups full of talented forwards that can score at will, and, more importantly, both teams love to play fast.
Panthers vs Devils betting trend to know
There have been seven or more total goals scored in six of the last seven meetings between these two teams. Find more NHL betting trends for Panthers vs Devils.
Panthers vs Devils game info
| Location: | Prudential Center, Newark, NJ |
| Date: | Saturday, December 17, 2022 |
| Puck drop: | 7:30 p.m. ET |
| TV: | BSFL, MSGSN |
