NHL Betting Preview - Week One Free Picks

Online sports wagering enthusiasts have their eye on the NHL section of BetUS’ sportsbook for the first time in a while, as the hockey season is about to get underway. With a wild offseason behind us, it’s tough to predict who will finish where, but we’ll help you out with three free picks to kick off another NHL sked!

New York Islanders vs. Boston Bruins

Take advantage of the fact that this is the first game of the year for these clubs, because you won’t find much betting value taking teams playing the Islanders for much longer. The Isles will be the worst team in the NHL, most likely, with a hodge-podge of veteran forwards and mid-level prospects as their nucleus. Their leading scorer last year, Mike Comrie, did not even register 50 points. He did, however, land Hilary Duff—so bonus points for that. Nonetheless, the Bruins at home should suffocate the Isles in this one with their tight defensive system. Tim Thomas will be at his best as he battles to keep his No. 1 position after an All-Star season last year…can someone explain that? In any event, Bruins on the moneyline!

Anaheim Ducks vs. San Jose Sharks

Todd McClellan will be looking to make a big impression at home, and players generally play hard for a new coach. The Sharks won the season series with the Ducks last season by not shying away from their physical game. A wise bet would be to take the under in this game, considering two All-World netminders in Jean-Sebastien Giguere and Evgeni Nabokov will be squaring off. Also, take the Sharks on the moneyline.

Washington Capitals vs. Atlanta Thrashers

If the Islanders will be the worst team in the NHL, the Thrashers will be a close second. Alexander Ovechkin and his crew got off to a rocky start last season, but Bruce Boudreau changed all of that. It will be interesting to see how the Caps fare with him behind the bench for an entire season. Take the over in this game—all on Washington goals. Atlanta finished last in goals, and in shots last season, so don’t expect any help on their part towards surpassing the total.