Anaheim Ducks (1-2-0) vs. Arizona Coyotes (2-2-0)
Anaheim Ducks vs. Arizona Coyotes 10/21/23 – Today’s top free NHL picks spotlight shines on the upcoming clash between the Anaheim Ducks and the Arizona Coyotes. As the NHL regular season picks up pace, the Ducks, with a 1-2-0 record, are looking to bounce back from their recent slump. On the other hand, the Coyotes, who are evenly poised at 2-2-0, are aiming to inch above .500. The matchup promises high-octane action for the fans and bettors alike.
Frank Vatrano leads the offensive charge for the Ducks with 3 goals in 3 games, but the team’s reliance on him is evident. With support from Mason McTavish and Ryan Strome, who have contributed significantly in terms of assists, Anaheim’s offense has potential. However, against the defensive wall of Arizona, especially with their goalie Karel Vejmelka boasting an impressive 0.943 save percentage, the Ducks’ offense will have to be exceptionally sharp.
The Arizona Coyotes have their own set of aces, with Clayton Keller and Nick Schmaltz leading the pack. Both have contributed 5 points each in just 4 games, with a notable shooting percentage. The duo, alongside Logan Cooley who’s been instrumental with his assists, will challenge the defensive capabilities of the Ducks, who will lean heavily on their goaltender, John Gibson, to keep them in contention.
Anaheim Ducks vs. Arizona Coyotes 10/21/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, October 21, 2023 at 4:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Mullett Arena |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender John Gibson vs. Goaltender Karel Vejmelka
John Gibson has proven his brilliance throughout his time with Anaheim and remains an integral component of their defense. Over this season he has amassed a save percentage of 0.902 which, while commendable, indicates there is room for growth. Furthermore, his goals-against average of 3.01 is indicative of some difficulties early in the campaign; nonetheless it should be remembered that Gibson has often been decisive when the Ducks faced close battles – so his resilience and experience will likely be put through rigorous testing against an Arizona team whose offense appears to be finding its stride.
Karel Vejmelka of the Coyotes has started this season in impressive form, boasting an astounding save percentage of 0.943 and goals against per game of 1.95; both metrics showcase his consistency and ability to stave off opposing attacks. Given these stats, Vejmelka will surely present the Ducks forwards with an enormous challenge and require precision and creativity to breach his defenses.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: Arizona Coyotes -185, Total Odds: 6.5
Given the current betting odds, the Coyotes appear to be the favorites in this matchup. The spread suggests that Arizona has a significant edge, but with both teams having moments of vulnerability this season, it’s hard to firmly predict the outcome. Nonetheless, given the recent trends and performances, Arizona seems to be the safer bet.
Anaheim Ducks Betting Trends
The Anaheim Ducks have struggled since 2016, as evidenced by their 1-15-1 mark against Western Conference opponents over their last 16 games (single-digit winning percentage in that span). Furthermore, their performance away from home has left much to be desired as evidenced by an 0-5-1 SU record from their last 5 road contests (but 4-2 against Arizona in those contests shows some signs of hope!). Arizona will need to find ways to break their streak for them to advance.
Arizona Coyotes Betting Trends
Coyotes, while maintaining an even record this season, have recently faced challenges, going 3-13 SU in their last 16. At home however, the team’s performance has been thrilling with six out of their seven home games going OVER recently – this includes four meetings against Anaheim where this occurred.
Anaheim Ducks vs. Arizona Coyotes 10/21/23 Betting Picks
Considering both teams’ recent form and historical trends, this game promises to be a tightly contested affair. While Arizona seems to have the edge in terms of goaltending and offensive capabilities, the Ducks cannot be entirely ruled out, given their head-to-head record against the Coyotes.
In conclusion, the safe pick would be leaning towards the Coyotes due to their home advantage and Vejmelka’s form. However, for those seeking riskier endeavors, an over 6.5 bet seems enticing, given the offensive talents on display and past trends. For premium weekly selections, keeping an eye on players like Keller and Vatrano might yield fruitful prop bets.
Free Pick and Prediction: Arizona Coyotes 4, Anaheim Ducks 3.