Nashville Predators (13-12-0) vs. Toronto Maple Leafs (12-6-4)
Nashville Predators vs. Toronto Maple Leafs 12/9/23 – The Nashville Predators take on the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday night in a big inter-conference NHL matchup. Puck drop is set for 7:00 PM ET inside Scotiabank Arena. This will be the first of two meetings this season between these Stanley Cup contenders. As hockey enthusiasts and bettors look forward to this game, they are keenly searching for hockey free picks to guide their predictions and wagers. This game is anticipated to be a gripping contest between two closely matched teams.
Nashville Predators boast a potency offense. Filip Forsberg leads their efforts with 13 goals and 16 assists over 25 games, while Ryan O’Reilly complements him well by scoring 12 goals and 10 assists of his own. Their offensive strategy should prove critical in breaking through Maple Leaf defense – something Roman Josi does effectively by contributing 5 goals and 13 assists while simultaneously playing an instrumental role on power plays for Nashville.
At Toronto Maple Leafs, their offensive lineup is equally formidable. Right Wing William Nylander with 12 goals and 17 assists is a key member of their attack while Center Auston Matthews contributes 16 goals with 9 assists to be an impactful threat to any defense, such as Nashville’s. Mitchell Marner adds depth and versatility to their offense with 8 goals and 16 assists himself proving essential. Nashville Predators defense will need to perform at their highest levels to contain this potent Toronto offense.
Nashville Predators vs. Toronto Maple Leafs Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Scotiabank Arena |
| TV: | NHL |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Juuse Saros vs. Goaltender Joseph Woll
Juuse Saros has been a steady presence in goal yet again for the Predators this season. Through 20 starts, he’s compiled a respectable .900 save percentage along with a 3.03 goals against average. Saros faced a heavy workload last season that may have worn him down late in the year. But with more rest, he seems to be back at top form, already notching 10 wins. If Saros plays up to his capability on Saturday, he could easily frustrate Toronto’s star-studded lineup. The Leafs have struggled to light the lamp during their recent skid, so a strong performance from Saros would go a long way towards securing a Nashville victory.
Meanwhile, Joseph Woll has assumed the starting duties in the Toronto net. Through 14 starts, he’s earned a solid .915 save percentage. On the season, Woll has given up more than three goals only four times. So he’s avoided disastrous outings for the most part. Still, his track record is limited and he hasn’t faced an offense quite like Nashville’s high-powered attack yet this season. Toronto allows a ton of shots on goal, so if Woll’s play slips at all, the Predators should be able to expose some holes. It will be a major test for the young goaltender against elite scorers.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With the betting odds yet to be announced, bettors should keep an eye on the evolving market. The odds will reflect both teams’ recent performances and their head-to-head history, offering insights into potential outcomes.
Nashville Predators Betting Trends
The Predators are just 1-4 straight up and against the spread over their previous five outings. Nashville has been a profitable bet on the road however, posting a 6-5 ATS record as the visitor. The over has hit in three of the Predators’ past five games overall. In addition, 60% of their road contests have exceeded the total this season.
Toronto Maple Leafs Betting Trends
It’s been a dreadful stretch for Toronto, with five consecutive losses both straight up and ATS. Surprisingly though, the Leafs have been solid on home ice, going 7-5 ATS at Scotiabank Arena this season. The under has cashed in each of Toronto’s past five matchups. But prior to this recent slide, high-scoring affairs had been the norm, with nine of their previous 12 home contests finishing over the number.
Nashville Predators vs. Toronto Maple Leafs 12/9/23 Betting Picks
This game presents a challenging prediction scenario, with both teams showing inconsistent recent forms. The goaltenders’ performances will be a critical aspect to watch, as both Saros and Woll have the ability to significantly influence the game’s outcome.
The game appears to be a closely contested battle. The Maple Leafs, despite their recent struggles, have the offensive firepower to challenge the Predators. The Predators, on the other hand, have shown resilience and could exploit the Maple Leafs’ recent form. When considering prop bets, focusing on individual player performances, especially the goaltenders and top scorers, could be beneficial. As always with premium predictions, it’s essential to weigh the teams’ current form, player matchups, and historical trends.
Free Pick and Prediction: Nashville Predators 3, Toronto Maple Leafs 2