Calgary Flames (11-13-3) vs. Vegas Golden Knights (18-5-5)
Calgary Flames vs. Vegas Golden Knights 12/12/23 – The NHL regular season brings an intriguing matchup on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, as the Calgary Flames, with a record of 11-13-3, face off against the Vegas Golden Knights, who boast an impressive 18-5-5 record. This contest, set for 10:00 PM ET at the T-Mobile Arena and airing on ESPN+, is a highlight for fans and bettors, offering insightful no-cost NHL selections based on the teams’ current standings and recent performances.
The Flames offense has lacked punch recently, averaging just 2.4 goals over their last five contests. Center Nazem Kadri leads the team with 18 points, but has scored only once in his past eight games. Calgary will need wingers like Elias Lindholm and Blake Coleman to provide secondary scoring against a staunch Vegas defense allowing the fourth-fewest goals league-wide.
Meanwhile, Vegas boasts impressive offensive depth, led by center Jack Eichel’s 12 goals and 31 points. Winger Mark Stone chips in steady production as well, with eight tallies and a +2 rating. The Golden Knights forward corps should be able to exploit a Flames defense surrendering 3.5 goals per game over their past four outings.
Calgary Flames vs. Vegas Golden Knights 12/12/23 Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | T-Mobile Arena |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Jacob Markstrom vs. Goaltender Logan Thompson
Veteran Jacob Markstrom has struggled mightily in the Flames net this season, posting an ugly 2.95 GAA and .896 save rate. The 33-year-old has allowed three or more goals in five of his past six appearances, as his reflexes and positioning seem to be betraying him. Markstrom especially faces issues with rebound control, surrendering far too many second-chance opportunities. With trade rumors swirling, the former All-Star netminder needs to turn his campaign around quickly if he hopes to remain Calgary’s starter. However, a matchup against the dangerous Golden Knights likely won’t cure what ails him.
Logan Thompson has sparkled as the Golden Knights starter, compiling a stingy 2.38 GAA and .919 save percentage. The 25-year-old netminder has permitted two or fewer goals in three of his last four outings, flashing the poise and athleticism that has him profiled as a future franchise anchor in Vegas. While questions persisted regarding Thompson’s ability to handle a full starter’s workload entering 2022-23, he has resoundingly quieted those doubts over the past six weeks. With the Flames offense stuck in neutral, the emerging goalie should be poised to stonewall Calgary’s unimpressive forward group Tuesday night.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As the betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, they will be an essential factor for bettors to consider. These odds will provide valuable insights into the perceived strengths and weaknesses of both teams, influencing betting strategies.
Calgary Flames Betting Trends
The Flames have slid to 2-3 straight up and 2-3 against the spread over their previous five contests. Calgary has particularly struggled on the road this season, posting a money-burning 4-10 ATS record as visitors. Interestingly though, the total has gone OVER in eight of the Flames’ 13 most recent road tilts, suggesting this offense eventually comes alive away from home.
Vegas Golden Knights Betting Trends
The Golden Knights have returned to their winning ways of late, earning victories in three of their past four games. However, Vegas hasn’t translated that success to bettors, covering just once in its last five outings. The totals have also stayed UNDER in two of the Golden Knights previous three home contests. Still, this offense seemingly has the talent to erupt on any given night.
Calgary Flames vs. Vegas Golden Knights 12/12/23 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, this game seems to favor the Golden Knights, given their strong season performance and home advantage. The Flames, while capable of putting up a strong fight, will need to significantly step up their game to challenge the Golden Knights.
In terms of betting, the Golden Knights seem like the safer pick, but the Flames could present value as underdogs. Prop bets on individual player performances and the over/under on total goals could offer additional betting opportunities.
Handicapper ratings and reviews suggest a potential advantage for the Golden Knights in this matchup. However, bettors should consider the recent form and head-to-head statistics of both teams before making their final decisions.
Free Pick and Prediction: Vegas Golden Knights 4, Calgary Flames 2.