Best NHL Props For Blues-Avalanche On Wednesday
Expect early scoring in Blues-Avalanche
Here are a couple of NHL prop bets worth taking a look at for Wednesday night's Stanley Cup playoff game.
Blues vs. Avalanche: Time of First Goal 0:01-8:59 (-150 at BetMGM)
Early scoring has been a theme in this Central Division battle, with one team scoring within the first 8:59 in three of the four games. I like that trend to continue in Game 5, as both teams will be coming out and looking to build momentum.
The production metrics support that early scoring is a priority.
The Avalanche and Blues combined for 16 scoring and six high-danger chances in the opening period on Monday, representing 41% and 50% of the opportunities in Game 4. That was the third straight game in which most of the chances came in the first period, highlighting the quick start these teams get out to.
I also can’t look past Ville Husso’s struggles between the pipes this postseason. Through five appearances, Husso is stopping just 89.1% of shots and allowing a 3.38 goals-against average. He’s been incapable of slowing down the Avs, allowing nine goals through his first two appearances of the series, stopping just 84.7% of shots.
The Blues’ best chance of competing in this series was stealing the win on home ice on Monday night. I am anticipating a hot start from the Avs as they look to close things out on home ice.
Blues vs. Avalanche: Both Teams to Score in the First Period (+160 at BetMGM)
It’s not a foregone conclusion that the Avalanche are the first team to score, but I am expecting a quick response from whoever does.
St. Louis shot themselves in the foot in Game 4, playing undisciplined in the second period and allowing the Avalanche to stake themselves to a 4-1 lead. A more composed start in Wednesday night’s matchup should be expected from the former Stanley Cup-winning team.
The Blues have scored first in all four games this series but have been unable to maintain those leads. Colorado won’t want to allow the Blues to build a lead and lean into their defensive structure. Similarly, St. Louis cannot afford to let the Avs build a multi-goal lead in their friendly confines. In either case, I am expecting a more aggressive attack from either team when they find themselves in a hole.
As noted, offense is amplified in the first, but that hasn’t resulted in scoring from both teams early this series. That should change in Game 5, as an early goal should precipitate a quick response, with the Avs and Blues each playing with increased desperation while trailing.
I am betting the scoring comes early and often on Wednesday.
