LiontipsMinnesota Wild vs San Jose Sharks. Predictions and Betting Tips for NHL (April 18, 2021).
Command Analysis
Minnesota has given top-notch performance in the recent games. The team relied on solid play in defense and thanks to this they outplayed Arizona (5:2) and San Jose (3:2). These two wins put Wild in third place in the Western Division. The lead over the fifth place is 12 points and they have two games in hand. Such a comfortable handicap allows the team to play without pressure.
San Jose have lost their last four fixtures. Because of this, Sharks dropped to the sixth position. It is crucial to start earning points in the coming games. if they don't, Sharks will be left out of the fight for the playoffs. Their main concern is a horrendous defense - 144 goals conceded and this is the worst mark in the division.
Trends
Ставка1st period total over 1,5 goals
In 3 out of 4 last H2H games, the teams scored two or more goals in the first period.
СтавкаFirst goal at 1 to 8 minute
In Minnesota's 3 out of the last 5 matches, one of the teams opened the score within the first eight minutes of the game.
Tip and bets
San Jose should not play an open attacking game against Minnesota. It can be emotionally overwhelming, and that's when points are easily lost. It is important to have reliable defense and count on the opponent's mistakes. We believe that both teams will play cautiously, which is why we do not expect many goals.
Our prediction is total under 6 goals at 1.57 odds.
Minnesota outclasses their counterpart, but for Sharks this is one of the last chances to squeeze into the playoffs. In case of defeat, the gap separating them from Top-4 will grow and it will become more and more difficult to close it. We expect that the guests will be able to catch on and will be close to revenge.
The second bet - San Jose won't lose at 1.99.
