Colorado Avalanche (15-6-1) vs. Los Angeles Kings (13-4-3)
Colorado Avalanche vs. Los Angeles Kings 12/3/23 – The Colorado Avalanche (15-6-1) take on the Los Angeles Kings (13-4-3) on Sunday, December 3rd at Crypto.com Arena. These two Western Conference powerhouses are meeting for the second time this season. With daily hockey tips suggesting this should be a fast-paced, high-scoring matchup, let’s dive into the analysis and odds.
The Avalanche enter this game with the league’s most dynamic offense. Their 3.77 goals per game leads the NHL thanks largely to stars like Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen and Valeri Nichushkin. However, they have struggled on defense at times this year. The Kings will look to take advantage, especially with snipers like Kevin Fiala and Gabriel Vilardi finding their scoring touch lately. Still, Colorado has won seven of its last 10 games and should put plenty of pressure on Los Angeles.
While not as flashy statistically as the Avs, the Kings have found ways to light the lamp this season. Their well-balanced scoring attack featuring six players with 15+ points should be able to challenge Colorado’s suspect defense corps. And thanks to steady, sometimes spectacular play from offseason addition Cam Talbot between the pipes, Los Angeles has allowed the second-fewest goals in the league. If the Kings can slow down the Avalanche’s star power, they could control this game.
Colorado Avalanche vs. Los Angeles Kings 12/3/23 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 3, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Alexandar Georgiev vs. Goaltender Cam Talbot
Avalanche netminder Alexandar Georgiev has performed admirably in his first season as Colorado’s full-time starter. His 2.89 GAA ranks among the league leaders for starters. However, his sub-.900 save percentage suggests he is still capable of getting shelled on any given night. If Fiala, Vilardi and company come out firing, Georgiev could be in for a long night. The Kings potent power play could also give him trouble.
On the other side, Talbot has exceeded expectations since coming over from Ottawa in the offseason. The veteran’s 2.02 GAA and .928 save percentage are top-five league-wide, and his calm, steady presence has solidified the team’s defense. Still, Talbot will surely be tested by Colorado’s fearsome attack. MacKinnon and Rantanen in particular have torched nearly every goalie they’ve faced. He’ll need to be sharp to give L.A. a chance.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: Los Angeles Kings -101, Total Odds: 6
The Kings have proven nearly unbeatable on home ice, going 7-2 straight up. The value lies with taking those +190 odds on the rested Kings squad against an Avalanche team playing its third road game in four nights. The over also holds some value given these teams’ collective firepower.
Colorado Avalanche Betting Trends
The Avalanche have been solid but unspectacular against the spread this year, posting a 55% cover rate. But they’ve struggled mightily on the road, going just 5-7 ATS away from Ball Arena. Colorado is also just 2-3 straight up over its last five contests, suggesting they could be cooling off after a hot start. With questions in net and on defense, this team remains vulnerable as road underdogs despite its elite offense.
Los Angeles Kings Betting Trends
The Kings have been a cover machine through the first quarter of the season, cashing tickets for bettors at a 60% clip. They’ve been even better on home ice, going 7-2 ATS at Crypto.com Arena. Los Angeles is also rolling right now having won five straight games overall. With momentum and rest on their side, the Kings have shown the ability to match up well with and take down elite squads like Colorado.
Colorado Avalanche vs Los Angeles Kings 12/3/23 Betting Picks
This matchup pits two of the top teams in the Western Conference against one another. Based on the Kings’ home ice dominance, red-hot play of late and a fatigued Avalanche squad, the smart money lies with Los Angeles to defend its building. Back the Kings at profitable plus-money odds on the moneyline, and don’t hesitate to spring for the underdog puck line as well if you’re feeling frisky. The over also warrants a look with two capable but vulnerable netminders facing a bevy of offensive talent. For the latest premium matchup reviews, be sure to check our handicapping analysis all season long!
Free Pick and Prediction: Los Angeles Kings 4, Colorado Avalanche 3.