NHL Best Bets (12/15/23): Expert Predictions For Tonight’s Games

Tonight’s NHL slate features 6 exciting matchups. Anthony Elio has a best bet for the Western Conference showdown between the San Jose Sharks and Arizona Coyotes

San Jose Sharks vs. Arizona Coyotes

The San Jose Sharks, who looked like a historically bad team earlier this year, have been oddly competitive as of late, going 3-1 in their past four games. However, the team has been playing on a razor’s edge, with each of their last five games being determined by a single goal. The team could use some help when it comes to killing the power play, with the Sharks currently 29th in the league at 73.27%. Additionally, it’s tough to be enthusiastic about the team between the pipes, as Mackenzie Blackwood (0.900 SV %, 3.67 GAA) is projected to start tonight. Blackwood has been allowing plenty of goals on the road as of late, with an average of 3.83 goals allowed per game. The Sharks as a whole are 3-11-1 on the road this season.

Meanwhile, the Arizona Coyotes have been underwhelming, with a four-game losing streak in which they’ve been outscored 18-8. However, keep in mind that three of those games were on the road, as the Yotes have been much better at Mullett Arena. Arizona is 8-5 at home this season and is riding a 4-1 home streak in which they’ve outscored opponents 18-9. The offense is led by Clayton Keller with 25 points, and he’s getting help from Michael Carcone (14 goals) and Lawson Crouse (13 goals). While it’s tempting to take a San Jose team that’s looked improved lately, I like Arizona to win by multiple goals in their cozy 5,000-person home stadium.

Best Bet: Arizona Coyotes -1.5

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