Prepare for an action-packed showdown this Friday as the Ottawa Senators take on the Vegas Golden Knights on Nevada Day. Proving themselves as fierce combatants on home ice, the Golden Knights aim to extend their impressive 4-0-0 track record at the T-Mobile Arena. Their run matches the top home marks in the NHL, currently shared with Dallas and Winnipeg. However, a strong outing against the Senators could propel Vegas ahead as the undisputed home-ice champions. As Vegas prepares to host back-to-back games, coinciding with Pacific Division leaders Calgary, anticipation is high. Will they rise to the occasion or will the Ottawa Senators stifle their winning spree?
Team Analysis
Vegas Golden Knights
The Golden Knights enter the weekend with major momentum following a decisive 6-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings. Their performance showed dominance and depth, with standout performances from Tomas Hertl and Mark Stone. The team broke through the first period with a commanding 3-0 lead and continued to pile on the pressure through to the end. In the words of Hertl after the game, “It’s nice to start a homestand like this.”
Ottawa Senators
Firmly tied for second in the Atlantic Division with eight points, the Senators opened with a dazzling shutout against the Utah Hockey Club in Salt Lake City. Goalkeeper Anton Forsberg’s stellar game has set an optimistic tone for their road trip. However, Ottawa’s road record belies their current momentum, having finished last season with just 16-23-2 on the road, ranking among the bottom four in the Eastern Conference. Taking on the dominant Golden Knights at their home turf will be a litmus test for their improved form.
Key Players to Watch
Tomas Hertl and Mark Stone from the Golden Knights have shown their ability to change the game singlehandedly. On the Senators side, Anton Forsberg is expected to be a key player in the upcoming match, as his recent performance has been a considerable factor in their success.
Final Thoughts
As the Golden Knights prepare to defend their home turf once again, will their excellent home record carry through? On the other hand, can the Ottawa Senators overcome their past road shortcomings and seize a win on Vegas ice? These questions add intrigue to an already hotly anticipated match. The thrilling encounter will undoubtedly offer fans gripping action and some top-tier hockey.
Betting Picks
Moneyline:
The Vegas Golden Knights come into this game with superior overall performance, currently ranking higher in the NHL standings than the Ottawa Senators. The Knights’ solid offense, backed by key players like Max Pacioretty and Mark Stone, has consistently achieved a higher goals-per-game average compared to the Senators. Moreover, their special teams’ play has been significantly stronger, particularly on the power play. The goaltending matchup for this game is also in favor of the Knights, with Robin Lehner’s save percentage and goals-against average significantly better than the Senators’ primary goalkeeper, Matt Murray.
Injuries are also a factor to be considered in this game, primarily with the Senators’ roster. Ottawa’s key defenseman, Thomas Chabot, has been on the injury list which poses a significant blow to their defense. Current form is another substantial factor to assess, with the Knights winning 6 out of their last 10 matchups, while the Senators have struggled, winning only 3 out of their last 10.
Our Pick: Las Vegas Golden Knights (-145)
Over/Under:
Analyzing the Over/Under for the game between Ottawa Senators and Vegas Golden Knights with total set goals at 6.5, there are several factors to be considered. Firstly, Las Vegas Golden Knights’ offense has been an asset for the team this season, ranking 3rd in the NHL for goals scored per game. Their power play has been efficient, converting at a 22% rate, which is above the league average. On the other hand, Ottawa Senators have had defensive struggles throughout the season. They are ranked in the bottom half of the league in terms of goals allowed per game. The Senators’ penalty kill has struggled, with only a 76% success rate which gives a distinct edge to Golden Knights’ efficient power play.
Additionally, both teams’ goaltending factors into the equation. The Golden Knights’ goaltender Robin Lehner has a .907 save percentage, which although slightly above average, could allow for goals to be scored. Conversely, the Senators’ goaltender Matt Murray has struggled with a save percentage of .889. Furthermore, the Senators have several key injuries on their defensive roster which could affect their ability to limit the Golden Knights’ scoring.
After reviewing these factors, goal scoring trends and considering both teams’ recent performances, I make a definitive pick: Over 6.5. This is largely based on the Golden Knights strong offense, the Senators’ shaky defense, and the lackluster goaltending from both teams.
Our Pick: Over 6.5
