Liontips
Montreal vs. Vancouver: NHL Match Prediction
On January 7th, Montreal will finally return to their home arena after a long and successful road trip. The team will host Vancouver, who are currently experiencing a downturn, making it challenging for them to achieve their desired outcome. What bets should you place? Find the answer in our prediction.
Command Analysis
Montreal Canadiens
CanadaCurrent Form
Montreal wrapped up a six-game road trip that didn't start on the best note. In the opening match, they faced Montreal and suffered a disappointing 4-5 loss. The opponent equalized in the third period and took the lead just minutes before the final whistle. This setback seemed to ignite the Canadians, as they went on to secure three consecutive victories, all in regulation time. Notably, they confidently handled top league teams like Florida (4-0), Tampa Bay (5-2), and Vegas (3-2). The defensive line deserves special praise for limiting these high-scoring opponents' offensive potential.
However, the Canadiens' winning streak was unexpectedly halted by Chicago, the main underdog of the Western Conference. Despite creating numerous scoring opportunities, their finishing was lacking, resulting in a 2-4 defeat. Goalie Montembeault also struggled, saving only 84% of shots. Many anticipated this loss would mark the start of a decline, but in their next game against Colorado, the team bounced back, clinching a shootout victory (2-1). This time, Dobes was in goal, performing significantly better than his teammate with a 96% save rate. Thanks to these successful performances, Montreal not only moved off the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings but also closed in on the playoff zone, trailing by just one point.
Suspensions and Injuries
In the upcoming match, goalie Price is confirmed out. Laine and Savard remain questionable.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Montreal concedes an average of 3.4 goals per game
The Canadians have not been able to boast a reliable defense this season.
- The Canadiens average ten penalty minutes per game
Their discipline has also been far from exemplary.
Vancouver Canucks
CanadaCurrent Form
The team broke their losing streak by defeating the San Jose Sharks in regulation time with a score of 4-3. Forward Elias Pettersson was the standout player, scoring twice. Following this victory, Vancouver faced Seattle and was once again close to success. However, in the final moments, the team made several mistakes, allowing the opponent to equalize and eventually losing in overtime (4-5). Goalie Ilya Samsonov, who saved 82% of shots, did not perform reliably enough. After the home defeat, the Canucks went on the road. In their first match against the Calgary Flames, the team failed to showcase their offensive potential, losing 1-3. Calgary scored two goals in the first 12 minutes, and the visitors couldn't recover.
In the rematch against Seattle, the club had every chance to win but again failed to hold the lead. With 50 seconds left in the third period, the Kraken equalized, sending the game into overtime. In the shootout, Tocchet's squad managed to secure a victory (4-3). Returning to their home arena, the team faced a relatively weak opponent in Nashville and failed to score, suffering a shutout loss (0-3). Notably, the offensive line looked much better than the opponent, but their shot conversion was lacking. Indeed, Vancouver's slump has dragged on too long, threatening their playoff spot, with their lead over the nearest competitor reduced to just one point.
Suspensions and Injuries
It's worth noting that Vancouver suffered a significant loss with Pettersson, one of their top forwards, getting injured. Additionally, Hronek and Hughes are also sidelined.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Vancouver has converted 24% of their power play opportunities
The team consistently capitalizes on their numerical advantage.
- On average, the Canucks take 26 shots per game
This season, the Canucks' forwards haven't shown enough activity, preventing the team from offsetting their defensive issues.
Trends
Bet Goal in Every Period – Yes
In four out of five head-to-head matches, "Montreal" scored first
1.45Bet First Goal: "Montreal"
In three out of five head-to-head matches, "Montreal" scored first
2.01Tip and bets
Bookmakers continue to underestimate Montreal, offering high odds on their victory, even though the team will be playing on home ice, where they naturally have a better chance of success. Notably, the Canadians might be in their best form since the start of the season, allowing them to consistently defeat clear favorites. Vancouver, on the other hand, is on a decline, losing points with each game. We believe there's no point in choosing a team out of form as the winner; it's wiser to bet on the home team.
Our prediction – Montreal to win the match at 2.06
Total Bet
Throughout the regular season, Vancouver has faced significant defensive challenges, attempting to offset them with their offensive play. The Canucks are likely to push for an open game in the upcoming match, making the over on the total a solid second bet.
Prediction – over 5.5 goals at 1.71
First Period Outcome Bet
In the first period, Montreal, leveraging their excellent form, will exert significant pressure on Vancouver, with the home advantage helping them secure an early lead by the end of the opening segment.
Prediction – Montreal to win the first period with a handicap (0) at 1.99
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