Vegas Golden Knights (21-9-5) vs. Anaheim Ducks (12-21-0)
Vegas Golden Knights vs. Anaheim Ducks 12/27/23 – On Wednesday, the Vegas Golden Knights are set to square off with Anaheim Ducks who boast an uninspiring 12-21-1 record at Honda Center – an ESPN+ broadcast of this matchup which marks a stark difference in team fortunes this NHL season. As fans and bettors eagerly look for free top NHL picks that could predict potential outcomes of this contest, fans and bettors are searching for reliable top picks that could predict their outcomes.
The Golden Knights’ offense has been an impressive force this season, led by center Jack Eichel’s 39 points. Mark Stone and William Karlsson have also played pivotal roles in Vegas’ attacking prowess. Their ability to consistently find the net with power play effectiveness poses a formidable threat against an Anaheim defense that has struggled against its opponents this season. Vegas will look to capitalize against an Anaheim side that struggles against such competition with its depth and versatility offensive unit.
On the other side, Anaheim Ducks have also shown some offensive flair despite their challenges this season. Right wing Frank Vatrano leads with 24 points while Troy Terry and Mason McTavish also contribute significantly with 18 each. For success against Vegas Golden Knights defense, Anaheim will rely heavily on power play situations to use its offensive strengths against its defense – even though some offensive leaders might present scoring opportunities against an inconsistent defensive unit like Vegas.
Vegas Golden Knights vs. Anaheim Ducks 12/27/23 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Honda Center |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Logan Thompson vs. Goaltender John Gibson
In net for Vegas is a goaltender, Logan Thompson who has posted a 2.71 goals against average along with a .905 save percentage this season. Through 19 starts, he has secured 10 victories. He will need to be sharp against the Ducks, who have some capable scorers on their roster. If he can track the puck well and cut down shooting angles, he should give his team a chance to come away with two points. However, he must also avoid allowing soft goals that could swing momentum in the home team’s favor.
Starting between the pipes for Anaheim is a John Gibson who is veteran goaltender that has registered a 2.85 GAA and .906 save percentage this campaign. Despite his experience, he has managed just six wins across 21 contests this year. Part of the team’s struggles can be attributed to inconsistent play in net. For Anaheim to have any chance at an upset, this netminder must bring his best. He will need to make tough saves look routine and also control his rebounds. If he allows any untimely goals, this game could get out of hand quickly. Still, if he is on top of his game, he has the ability to give his squad an opportunity to pin an unexpected loss on a talented offensive club.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: Vegas Golden Knights -189, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds favor the Vegas Golden Knights, reflecting their strong season performance and recent success against the Ducks. The Ducks, while underdogs, could provide value for bettors looking for an upset. The total odds, once set, will offer further insight into the expected game flow and scoring patterns.
Vegas Golden Knights Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Vegas’ last 9 games. But the Knights are just 1-4 straight up over their past five contests. Vegas is 15-4 SU in its previous 19 matchups against the Ducks, plus 10-4 SU over the last 14 road games versus Anaheim. However, the total has gone UNDER in four of the Golden Knights’ past five showdowns with Western Conference opponents.
Anaheim Ducks Betting Trends
The Ducks have lost 15 of their last 18 overall. Anaheim is also just 1-8 straight up over its previous nine home games. Yet the total has gone UNDER in four of the Ducks’ last five contests against the West. Anaheim is also 13-5 to the under across its past 18 clashes with Pacific Division foes.
Vegas Golden Knights vs. Anaheim Ducks 12/27/23 Betting Picks
Analyzing the data and trends, the Vegas Golden Knights emerge as the favorites in this matchup. Their potent offense and solid goaltending make them a strong pick against a Ducks team that has struggled to find consistency. However, the Ducks’ potential for an upset, particularly at home, should not be entirely discounted.
For bettors looking for the best multi-handicapper picks, the Golden Knights offer a solid choice, especially considering their recent form and head-to-head record against the Ducks. Prop bets on individual player performances, especially for players like Eichel and Vatrano, could provide additional value. The over/under will depend on the final total odds, but considering the trends, a higher-scoring game might be anticipated.
Free Pick and Prediction: Vegas Golden Knights 4, Anaheim Ducks 2