The Nashville Predators and San Jose Sharks are set to play their second game in as many days with the puck drop set for 2 p.m. ET.
The Predators continued their dominance from last season over the Sharks in yesterday’s tilt, but can the San Jose Sharks get their revenge and leave Europe with their first win of the season?
Find out with my NHL picks and predictions for the Predators vs. Sharks.
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Predators vs Sharks best odds
Predators vs Sharks picks and predictions
The Nashville Predators and San Jose Sharks kicked off the NHL season over in Prague when the Preds handed the Sharks a 4-1 defeat.
That game was pretty evenly matched, but the difference was the goaltending. Juuse Saros picked up right where he left off last season, stopping 30 of the 31 shots that he faced, while James Reimer stopped 28 of the 31 shots that were thrown at him. Reimer wasn’t bad at all, Saros was just that much better.
Something that stood out most in that game was both teams’ man-advantage units. They each went 0-4 on their respective power plays so you can expect some adjustments to be made going into this contest, but this early on in the season it may take some time for the power play to really click.
The goaltending matchup hasn’t been confirmed yet, but I would imagine that both teams would go back with the same guys in this game.
It has been a long week in Europe for both of these teams and since they are playing a back-to-back their legs might be feeling a little heavy. The Sharks’ offense has struggled mightily to score goals dating back to last season and I see that trend continuing in this game.
I absolutely love the Under on this game as I am sure that both of these teams are exhausted from this trip and are ready to get back to the States.
My best bet: Under 6 (-110 at PointsBet)
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Predators vs Sharks moneyline analysis
Dating back to last season, the Predators have now won four straight games against the San Jose Sharks, outscoring them by a combined 16-2. For whatever reason, the Sharks just can’t seem to find a way to score goals on this Nashville team.
The Predators played a solid 60 minutes in the first game. I wouldn’t say they were the clear-cut better team, but they found a way to finish on their opportunities which is what the Sharks have been struggling to do.
Defense is really what I am focusing on most in this matchup, and it’s clear that the Predators are stronger on the blue line and in between the pipes. I think the Preds will get another win and head back to the States undefeated with a record of 2-0.
Predators vs Sharks Over/Under analysis
Even though I think both teams will start their number-one goalies, I truly don’t think it matters in a game like this. Fatigue is bound to kick in after a long week exploring Europe and I don’t expect either offense to explode.
The fact that they went a combined 0-8 on the power play is definitely eye-opening and this game is a very quick turnaround. Playing a back-to-back can be very tough on the body, but when you mix in the amount of travel these players have experienced it can even be tough on the mind.
I do expect Juuse Saros to get the start again for Nashville and I can see San Jose’s struggles continue. I have a very strong feeling that this game will once again stay Under six.
Predators vs Sharks betting trend to know
The San Jose Sharks are 0-5 in their last five meetings against the Predators. Find more NHL betting trends for Predators vs Sharks.
Predators vs Sharks game info
Location: | O2 Arena, London, England |
Date: | Saturday, October 8, 2022 |
Puck drop: | 2:00 p.m. ET |
TV: | Bally Sports, NBCS-CA |