If you want more Action Network content, be sure to add us as a preferred source on Google.
The Minnesota Wild (12-3-4) and Montreal Canadiens (11-3-3) will meet in the NHL tonight. Puck drop is set for 7:00 p.m. EST at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC. The game will broadcast live on ESPN+.
The Wild are favored at -130 on the moneyline, with the Canadiens at +105 to pull off the upset. The over/under is set at 6.5 (+100o / -120u).
Let's get into our Wild vs. Canadiens predictions and NHL picks.
Wild vs. Canadiens Prediction
- Pick: Under 6.5 Goals -120 (BetMGM, Play to -130)
Our Minnesota vs. Montreal best bet is on the under total goals, with the best odds currently available at BetMGM. For all of your NHL bets, be sure to find the best lines by using our live NHL odds page.
Make sure to download the Action Network app for more NHL picks and analysis!
Wild vs Canadiens Odds
- Wild vs. Canadiens puck line: Wild -1.5 (+180), Canadiens +1.5 (-220)
- Wild vs. Canadiens over/under: 6.5 (+100o / -120u)
- Wild vs. Canadiens moneyline: Wild -130, Canadiens +105
- Wild vs. Canadiens best bet: Under 6.5
Wild vs. Canadiens Preview
Based on Hockeystats.com's model, Jesper Wallstedt and Calder Trophy favorite Jacob Fowler have been the two best goaltenders in the NHL this season, and both are expected to start in this matchup.
Fowler enters tonight's contest sporting a record of 8-1-1 to go alongside a .925 save percentage. While Fowler's excellent work in goal is the greatest reason Montreal has gotten off to a strong 11-3-3 start, head coach Martin St. Louis' side has still shown improvements defensively relative to years past and currently ranks 14th in xGA/60 at even strength.
Dating back to the start of last season, the Wild have allowed just 2.75 goals against per game, which is the third-best mark in the NHL. They have allowed only 2.7 xGA/60 this season and lead the league in allowing just 2.2 goals against per game where it counts.
This game offers a good measuring stick for two contenders, and it wouldn't surprise me if we see a well-contested game where sloppy defensive mistakes are rare. While both teams have produced offense at a better-than-average rate this season, I'm surprised to see totals of 6.5 currently available, even if they are juiced to the under.
At -130 or better, there looks to be value in backing this matchup to feature fewer than 6.5 goals.
Best Bet: Under 6.5 Goals -120 (BetMGM, Play to -130)
