Well, well, well, if it isn’t another “Hockey Day in Canada” where the Canucks, Leafs, and Habs temporarily set aside their rivalries to collectively revel in their hockey-crazed euphoria. Across the Great White North, from frostbitten rinks to steamy living rooms, it’s practically a national holiday—at least if you’re one who dreams in ice and breathes in pucks.
But let’s slice the syrupy sentimentality with a sharp skate blade, shall we? For those who get their kicks not just from the clashing of sticks but also from leaning into a little action, we’re flipping the coin to betting talk. This Saturday’s bets are coming up faster than a slapshot, so strap in.
Here’s the deal, if you’re even *thinking* of placing a bet, you better be looking for bang for your buck. Don’t just throw your loonies around willy-nilly. Check out these moneyline magnet numbers that will have you stretching your betting dollar further than a goalie on a breakaway:
– Tampa Bay Lightning cha-chinging at a splendid +143, while the Buffalo Sabres sit at a not-so-shabby -116.
– The Colorado Avalanche gliding in at -115, whereas the Philadelphia Flyers are floating like a deflected puck at +141.
– Nashville Predators and Arizona Coyotes in a tango at +109 and +112, respectively. Basically a coin toss, eh?
And the list goes on, flipping between teams faster than a referee’s decision after a video review.
**Now onto the good stuff – the best bets for January 20!**
The Winnipeg Jets (-145) are flying down to Ottawa to face off with the Senators (+125). The Jets are cruising in with their eyes on the prize, but whoa, pump the brakes! They’ve been on the couch since Tuesday, thumb-twiddling could ensue. Meanwhile, the Senators tend to show some pluck during those Saturday matinee shows. Taking Ottawa here isn’t as crazy as a goalie fight. **Pick: Senators (+125)**
Next, we jet over to the land of rain and robust coffee – the Vancouver Canucks (-130) hosting the Toronto Maple Leafs (+110). Toronto has been on the ropes lately, but they’ve had more high-danger shots than a stuntman at a knife-throwing show since Christmas. With Matthews flicking in hat tricks like they’re going out of style, betting on the Leafs here isn’t such a wild roll of the dice. **Pick: Maple Leafs (+110)**
Pittsburgh Penguins (-120) and Vegas Golden Knights (+100) clash in the desert. Crosby’s shooting pucks like he’s re-living his golden years and don’t get me started on the Penguins’ recent high-octane stats – they’re on fire, postseason dreams in their eyes. Vegas? Not so hot. **Pick: Penguins (-120)**
Oh, and we can’t forget the New York Rangers (+105) visiting the Los Angeles Kings (-125). The Kings have been on a losing streak so long you’d think they’re playing blindfolded, while the Rangers are hot and cold like a broken shower. Still, the Kings have been racking up chances like a gambler on a losing streak – eventually, luck’s gotta turn, right? **Pick: Kings (-125)**
Brace yourselves for Sunday’s shenanigans. The odds and ends will have you eyeing the moneylines like a hawk spotting a field mouse. And remember, if your bet tanks harder than a Zamboni on a summer day, don’t shoot the messenger – I’m just here for the color commentary!
Catch you rinkside, bettors. And if you’re looking to beat the odds, well, may the pucks be ever in your favor. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that when the nets are empty, anything can happen. Don’t be left speechless like a coach during a bad call – get in on the action!
**Matt Russell (@mrussauthentic), your go-to for every win, loss, and draw in the book. Because honestly, if there’s a way to lose your shirt on a bet, he’ll find it.**
And remember, kiddos, gamble responsibly – it’s all fun and games until someone loses their allowance.