Los Angeles Kings (22-15-10) vs. Nashville Predators (26-22-1)
Los Angeles Kings vs. Nashville Predators 1/31/24 – In a compelling mid-season showdown, the Los Angeles Kings face off against the Nashville Predators on Wednesday. The Kings, with a standing of 22-15-10, showcase a blend of resilience and skill, marking their place as formidable contenders in the NHL regular season. On the other side, the Predators, holding a 26-22-1 record, present an equally challenging opposition. Set in the iconic Bridgestone Arena, this game promises to be a key moment in the league, offering valuable sports handicapping insights and playoff potentials.
The Los Angeles Kings have demonstrated an effective offensive strategy this season. Led by team leaders such as Adrian Kempe, Kevin Fiala, and Anze Kopitar with impressive stats such as 17 goals and 26 assists from Kempe alone, 30 assists from Fiala provide depth on offense while Kopitar’s 17.2% shooting percentage adds balance on frontline play. When facing off against Nashville Predators defense which has struggled at home – Los Angeles Kings could exploit any gaps given Nashville’s uneven record at home.
Nashville Predators bring an offensive firepower led by Filip Forsberg, Ryan O’Reilly and Roman Josi. Forsberg has been key to their scoring drives with 23 goals and 27 assists this season; O’Reilly provides critical power play contributions as a strategic advantage. However, their offensive setup will put Cam Talbot’s defensive skills to the test as they must effectively employ their strategies against Predators’ threats.
Los Angeles Kings vs. Nashville Predators 1/31/24 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Bridgestone Arena |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Cam Talbot vs. Goaltender Juuse Saros
Kings netminder Cam Talbot comes into this matchup having played 32 games with a 14-13-5 record, 2.59 GAA and .911 save percentage. He’s faced a heavy workload, logging nearly 1,852 minutes between the pipes while making 817 saves. Though he’s allowed 80 goals, his 2.59 GAA ranks middle of the pack league-wide. Meanwhile, in limited shootout action, Talbot has stopped just 7 of 14 attempts for a very poor .500 save percentage. He brings an extensive workload this season, but average overall numbers.
Predators goalie Juuse Saros has suited up for 38 contests, compiling a 19-18-1 record with a 2.91 GAA and .904 save percentage. In over 2,120 minutes of ice time, he’s made 968 saves while letting up 103 goals. His GAA puts him among the bottom tier of starters, while his SV% is barely cracking the .900 threshold for league average. Like Talbot, Saros has struggled in shootouts, stopping just 1 of 2 attempts. On the whole, Saros enters with below average numbers across the board for key goaltending metrics.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
While the betting odds are yet to be determined, this game presents an intriguing scenario for bettors. Given both teams’ recent performances and standings, the odds are likely to be closely matched. Bettors should keep a keen eye on updates as they become available.
Los Angeles Kings Betting Trends
The Kings have gone 4-1 straight up in their last 5 games, indicating they are playing well recently. However, LA has struggled against the spread during that stretch, going just 1-4 ATS in their previous 5 contests. This suggests they are overperforming relative to betting market expectations. On the road, the Kings are 12-12 ATS this season, showing they can hold their own away from home. Meanwhile, totals have gone OVER in just 1 of their past 5 overall, but have gone OVER in 11 of their last 23 games in Los Angeles.
Nashville Predators Betting Trends
The Predators are 2-3 straight up in their previous 5 outings coming into this matchup with the Kings. Against the spread, Nashville has also struggled, going 1-4 ATS over that same sample. This indicates the team has been underperforming expectations. For the season, the Preds are 13-11 against the number on home ice, showcasing an ability to take care of business at Bridgestone Arena more often than not. However, totals have gone OVER just once in Nashville’s last 5 contests, though they have gone OVER in 9 of their last 25 games as hosts.
Los Angeles Kings vs. Nashville Predators 1/31/24 Betting Picks
Considering the teams’ recent performances and individual strengths, this game is poised to be a closely contested affair. The Kings’ offensive agility, paired with Talbot’s goalkeeping, sets them up well against the Predators. However, Nashville’s home advantage and offensive firepower, led by Forsberg and O’Reilly, cannot be underestimated.
In terms of betting picks, the game seems likely to be a tight contest with potential for a high-scoring affair. The Predators, with their home advantage, might have a slight edge, but the Kings’ recent form makes them a formidable opponent. In prop bets, considering players like Kempe and Forsberg for anytime goalscorers could be a smart choice.
Given the volatile nature of the game, bettors should keep an eye on any last-minute changes and adjust their strategies accordingly. This match is a prime example of the excitement and unpredictability that make the NHL a favorite for fans and bettors alike, offering some of the best daily hockey predictions.
Free Pick and Prediction: Nashville Predators 3, Los Angeles Kings 2.