NHL Week One Betting – Opening Week Value
Online sports wagering enthusiasts and hockey betting sharps are primed for the start of the NHL season, as there is tremendous NHL betting value to take advantage of as early as this weekend.
One typical betting trend when it comes to early season NHL games is high scoring. Generally, it takes goaltenders a few weeks or so to get into a rhythm once again, and coaches like to alternate between their starter and backup to begin the season, so as to give both ‘keepers a look.
Matchups against backup goalies are a definite target for BetUS customers, so keep your eye on the Locker Room throughout the week as we help you break it down and decipher favorable matchups.
As the goalies struggle, it’s a great time to bet the Grand Salami on a nightly basis. Opening night’s “Salami” bet is set at 21.5, which is easily attainable. A couple 6-5 games that go into shootouts, and you’re walking away with a nice pay day at the end of the nightly slate.
With many unknowns as the season opens up, BetUS customers can also take advantage of lazy lines early on. For example, in a very evenly matched divisional game on opening night, the San Jose Sharks are offered at +190 on the puck line to defeat the Anaheim Ducks by more than a goal.
Let’s take a look at two of Friday’s matchups that could pay off for online BetUS Sportsbook customers!
Chicago Blackhawks vs. New York Rangers
If what happened to the Ducks last season is any indication, the Rangers will be jet-jagged, and tired! Anaheim struggled for weeks following their trip to London, and the jury is out on the how the Blueshirts will react to their Prague visit as well. Chicago’s fresh legs will come out flying, as Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews attempt to live up to sophomore expectations. Moreover, Cristobal Huet will be out to prove that the ‘Hawks should indeed loan Nikolai Khabibulin to the KHL. Take Chicago on the puck line.
Nashville vs. St. Louis
A battle of two bad teams, but Nashville is decidedly the better of the two. For St. Louis, the season looks quite bleak without the services of No. 1 defenseman Erik Johnson for the entire year. With the exception of Brad Boyes, the Blues’ offense is rather scarce, and will struggle against a tight defensive unit like the Predators. Take Nashville on the moneyline.
