The long-awaited NHL season is getting started, and as always, fans will not miss the chance to catch the Toronto Maple Leafs take on Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre on Wednesday. As for Toronto, they enter the regular season after successfully rehearsing their previous matches with a record of 4 wins, one defeat, and one drawn match. For Montreal, however, winning just 2 out of the 6 has been even more difficult—this matchup full of action, which is part of tonight’s NHL winning free picks.
Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Montreal Canadiens 10/9/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Bell Centre |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Toronto Maple Leafs (4-1-1 Preseason) vs. Montreal Canadiens (2-4-0 Preseason)
The Toronto Maple Leafs bring a formidable offense into this matchup, led by standout center Auston Matthews, whose scoring prowess was on full display last season. With William Nylander and Mitch Marner also delivering high-point performances, the Leafs’ offensive line is poised to challenge Montreal’s defensive strategies, reminiscent of challenges posed by teams like the New York Rangers in past matchups. The Rangers, known for their strategic play, often highlight Toronto’s ability to exploit defensive gaps, which could be crucial in this game.
On the other hand, the Montreal Canadiens rely on the offensive skills of Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield to counteract Toronto’s attacks. Suzuki’s leadership and Caufield’s sharp shooting will be essential for penetrating Toronto’s defenses. Drawing parallels with the Winnipeg Jets‘ approach—emphasizing disciplined puck movement and robust defense—Montreal must adapt similar tactics to effectively challenge the Leafs and potentially turn the game in their favor.
Goaltender Joseph Woll vs. Goaltender Sam Montembeault
Joseph Woll for the Maple Leafs has shown promise with a save percentage of 0.907 across 25 games, such calmness is commendable and even more importantly his ability to perform when it matters. His performance will be key against Montreal’s attackers who are hungry for redemption to make up for the disappointing preseason. Woll’s dedication and composure in high-pressure situations must be important, mostly in an away game context.
Sam Montembeault will be the man in goal for the Canadiens in this matchup. Given a save percentage of 0.903 and a difficult season last season, Montembeault’s performance is going to be critical. He will have to deal with excess pressure due to many Toronto offensive drives that involve great scorers like Matthews and Nylander. Montembeault will not have it easy as the team will require him to make important stops during the game in order to remain in contention.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: Toronto Maple Leafs -1.5 (+135), Total Odds: 6.5
As of now, the betting chances are good on the Maple Leafs and this is well deserved due to a good preseason and shape as a team. The over/under defined at 6.5 also supports a view that expects a lot of goals, an aspect that is characteristic of the two teams due to their strong possessions.
Toronto Maple Leafs Betting Trends
The Leafs though have gone UNDER the total in 5 of their last 6 games are a perfect 5-0 SU in their last 5 meetings against slumping Montreal. Despite a recent travelling 2-4 SU in their last 6 engagements, historical performance shows it will be difficult for opposition teams to win the game against Montreal.
Montreal Canadiens Betting Trends
On the trend of the Montreal club in the last 6 matches, there has been a tendency of scores going OVER the total in 5 of the last 6 Monreal club matches. Still, the injury and weakness in core games could be seen in 1-7 SU over the last 8 games, a disadvantage that Toronto on the other hand will be more than ready to take advantage of.
Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Montreal Canadiens 10/9/24 Betting Picks
With this analysis and the current form, it is reasonable to say that the Toronto Maple Leafs will win this game. That said, the Canadiens have a history of playing better against Toronto than most teams do, particularly in their home venue, making this a compelling matchup. As far as the bettors are concerned, the only real wager worth making would be that of the Maple Leafs moneyline considering the strength and strategy overall of the team.
Regarding the prop bets and over/under, the smart money is probably on the under which is against the trend but admitting these teams might be more tactical and fight for less in regular season games. For those who want the best premium picks, it is that time when voters start to consider the performance of the goaltenders to the last minute and what might score.