Arizona Coyotes (16-13-2) vs. Colorado Avalanche (19-11-2)
Coyotes vs. Avalanche 12/23/23 – The NHL regular season offers a compelling matchup as the Arizona Coyotes, with a record of 16-13-2, prepare to take on the Colorado Avalanche, who stand at 19-11-2. This game, scheduled for December 23, 2023, at the Ball Arena and televised on ESPN+, presents an intriguing battle between two teams with contrasting fortunes this season. Fans and bettors are keenly looking out for NHL daily free picks, and this game is set to be a highlight of the day’s action.
The Coyotes offense has been led this season by the dynamic duo of Clayton Keller and Matias Maccelli. Keller paces the team with 27 points, including 11 goals, while Maccelli has contributed 23 points. This offensive firepower will test an Avalanche defense that is allowing 3.29 goals per game over their last seven contests. If Arizona can take advantage on the power play, where Colorado ranks bottom-five in penalty killing at 74.6%, they should be able to put pucks in the net.
Meanwhile, the Avalanche boast the league’s top offense, averaging 3.81 goals per game. Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen pace the attack with 48 and 40 points, respectively. Cale Makar also chips in from the blue line, with 8 goals and 29 assists. They take on a mediocre Coyotes defense surrendering 3.22 goals per contest. However, red-hot goaltender Connor Ingram could be the difference maker if he continues his stellar play of late. Over his past nine starts, Ingram has posted an impressive .934 save percentage.
Coyotes vs. Avalanche 12/23/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 23, 2023, at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Ball Arena |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Connor Ingram vs. Goaltender Alexandar Georgiev
Connor Ingram has anchored the Coyotes resurgence this season, compiling a 12-6 record along with a 2.55 GAA and .919 save percentage. He has given Arizona a chance to win every night and will need to stand on his head against the Avalanche prolific scorers. If Ingram can replicate his recent numbers, he could stymie the Colorado attack.
On the other side, Alexandar Georgiev has struggled to match last year’s performance after taking over for Stanley Cup winner Darcy Kuemper. His pedestrian .897 save percentage ranks near the bottom for starting goalies. If Georgiev falters against the opportunistic Coyotes, Arizona could quickly turn this game into a barn burner by taking an early lead. The first period and staying out of penalty trouble will be critical if Colorado wants to avoid an upset.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game, yet to be determined, will be a critical indicator of the expected performance of both teams. Bettors and fans will be eagerly awaiting these odds to make informed predictions and bets.
Arizona Coyotes Betting Trends
The Coyotes have been reliable for bettors lately, covering the number in four of their past five contests. They’ve been especially strong on the road, with an 8-7 ATS record away from home. The over has also hit frequently in Arizona’s road matchups, going 8-7-1 this year. Riding these trends points to taking the Coyotes +1.5 and the over 6.5 on Saturday.
Colorado Avalanche Betting Trends
Unlike the Coyotes, the Avalanche have disappointed bettors in recent outings – especially at Ball Arena. Colorado is just 5-11 ATS on home ice this season, while the under has cashed just 6 times in their 16 home contests. With the Avalanche offense scuffling of late, Expect another lower-scoring affair in this Saturday showdown.
Arizona Coyotes vs. Colorado Avalanche 12/23/23 Betting Picks
This matchup presents a fascinating clash of styles and strengths. The Coyotes have shown they can be competitive, especially against the spread, while the Avalanche boast a strong offensive line that can be decisive in home games.
In handicappers picks and tips, one must consider the Avalanche’s home advantage and offensive strength. However, the Coyotes’ resilience and ability to cover the spread should not be underestimated. Prop bets on individual player performances, especially those of the team leaders, could offer value. The over/under will hinge on the goaltenders’ performances, but with both teams showing offensive capabilities, a higher-scoring game could be expected.
Free Pick and Prediction: Colorado Avalanche 5, Arizona Coyotes 3