LiontipsColumbus vs Carolina. Prediction and Betting Tips for NHL (January 8, 2023).
Command Analysis
After beating Chicago, Columbus continued to show poor performance and suffered defeats to Ottawa (0:4) and Washington (2:6). Goalie Merzlikin had a bad game against the Capitals and saved only 83% of the shots he faced. One of the main reasons for the Blue Jackets' troubles is the long list of injuries - seven players are currently sidelined and two remain doubtful.
Carolina were enjoying a good run of form with an 11-games winning streak, having won most of those games in regulation. But in the last two games, the Hurricanes lost - first, they yielded to the Rangers (3:5), and then suffered a defeat to Nashville (3:5) at home. The Canes struggled to convert their chances: only three out of 67 shots found the back of the net.
Trends
Ставка1st goal: Columbus
In 4 head-to-head games out of 5, Columbus scored first.
Ставка1st period: total under 1.5 goals
In 3 head-to-head games out of 4, the teams failed to score more than one goal in the first period.
Tip and bets
This is a great opportunity for Carolina to bounce back - their opponent is in terrible form and rarely puts up fights against strong teams such as the Hurricanes. We don't expect the Blue Jackets to create problems for the Canes.
Our prediction - handicap (-1.5) to Carolina
Columbus concede a lot in pretty much every game, but Carolina experienced defensive problems in the last games as well. We recommend taking the over here.
Second bet - total over 5.5 goals
