Toronto Maple Leafs vs Anaheim Ducks 1-3-24

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Anaheim Ducks 1/3/24 NHL Game Forecast, Preview, and Analysis

Toronto Maple Leafs (17-10-7) vs. Anaheim Ducks (13-23-0)

 

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Anaheim Ducks 1/3/24 – The upcoming NHL regular season game on Wednesday, brings an intriguing matchup between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Anaheim Ducks at the Honda Center. The Maple Leafs are looking to bounce back from a rough patch, while the Ducks aim to build on their recent form. Scheduled for 9:00 PM ET and available on ESPN+ for viewers, this game is a key moment for both teams and a focus for those seeking top free NHL predictions.

 

The Maple Leafs’ offensive lineup is led by formidable players like William Nylander, Auston Matthews and Mitchell Marner. Nylander leads Toronto in scoring with 48 points including 17 goals while Matthews contributed 29 goals – they drive their attack forward despite recent form issues and can score on any given night; their challenge lies in breaking through Anaheim Ducks defense that has proved resilient at times this season.

 

On the other side of things, Anaheim Ducks have demonstrated significant promise on offense led by Frank Vatrano, Mason McTavish, and Troy Terry. Vatrano stands out with 17 goals and 26 total points as a key component of their attack; their performance, although occasionally inconsistent, shows flashes of brilliance that could pose threats to Toronto Maple Leafs defensive strategies; they must seize any opportunities against an opposing team that has struggled defensively.

 

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Anaheim Ducks 1/3/24 Game Info

 

When: Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET
Where: Honda Center
TV: ESPN+
Stream: NHL.TV

 

Goaltender Ilya Samsonov vs. Goaltender John Gibson

 

Ilya Samsonov has struggled in his first season as Toronto’s starting netminder. He is allowing 3.94 goals per game while stopping just 86% of shots faced. The Maple Leafs’ defensive issues won’t be helped by facing an Anaheim offense that averages 3.26 goals per contest. Samsonov will need to be much sharper to give his team a chance.

 

John Gibson has also had a down year for the Ducks, though his .904 save percentage is still superior to Samsonov’s. However, Anaheim allows a whopping 3.89 goals per game which doesn’t bode well against Toronto’s dynamic scorers. Matthews, Nylander and Mitch Marner could have their way against this porous defense. Like Samsonov, Gibson will need a quality performance to keep this game low-scoring.

 

NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD

 

The betting odds for this matchup are yet to be determined, but they will likely reflect the contrasting recent forms of the two teams. Insights and predictions will be crucial for bettors as they navigate this intriguing game.

 

Toronto Maple Leafs Betting Trends

 

The Maple Leafs are 0-5 straight up and against the spread over their last five contests. They have allowed an average of 5 goals per game over that stretch. Toronto is a dismal 4-10 ATS on the road this season despite their overall winning record. The over has hit in 12 of their 18 away contests.

 

Anaheim Ducks Betting Trends

 

The Ducks have played over the total in nine of their last 20 home matchups, including their most recent contest. Anaheim is 3-2 straight up in its previous five but just 3-2 ATS during that span. The Ducks allow the second-most goals per game at home so the over is usually a wise play when they host games.

 

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Anaheim Ducks 1/3/24 Betting Picks

 

Considering the current trends and performances, this game is a tough call. The Maple Leafs, despite their recent form, have the offensive firepower to turn any game around. The Ducks, while not as strong on paper, have shown better form recently. This game could be closer than many expect, and the goaltending matchup could be a deciding factor.

 

In terms of betting, the Ducks might be the more intriguing pick due to their recent form and the Maple Leafs’ struggles. However, the potential for a Toronto turnaround should not be underestimated. Prop bets on individual player performances and the over/under might offer interesting opportunities, especially considering the recent defensive struggles of both teams. For those seeking handicapper best picks, it’s advisable to consider the recent trends and the potential for an upset by the Ducks.

 

Free Pick and Prediction: Toronto Maple Leafs 4, Anaheim Ducks 3 

 

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