LiontipsBoston vs Montreal: NHL Match Preview and Betting Tips
Command Analysis
Current Form
The Boston Bruins have made several roster changes, yet most of their key players, including Marchand and Pastrnak, remain on the team. Last season, the Bruins did not perform well, exiting in the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. This outcome has not pleased the management, as they have been aiming to capture the coveted trophy in recent years.
During the offseason, the roster welcomed Elias Lindholm, Nikita Zadorov, and Tyler Johnson, while parting ways with Ritchie, Boqvist, and DeBrusk. In their season opener against Florida, the Bruins faced a setback, losing 4-6. In that game, Brad Marchand was particularly unremarkable, logging over 17 minutes on the ice without contributing to the score sheet and ending the game with a minus-two rating.
Disqualifications and Injuries
Luci, Mitchell, and Poitras will not participate in the upcoming match.
Noteworthy Betting Trends
- The Bruins average 23 shots per game.
During the preseason, the Bruins displayed a lack of shooting activity, putting minimal pressure on opposing goalies.
- Statistically, the Bruins commit no more than five penalties per game.
The team aims to play cautiously, minimizing rule infractions in even situations.
Current Form
The Montreal Canadiens are unlikely to contend for a playoff spot this season, having failed to make significant improvements during the offseason. The team last participated in the Stanley Cup playoffs three years ago, where they reached the finals, but since then they have been far from the playoff race. It’s worth noting that head coach Martin St. Louis is still at the helm, leading the team to play an open style of hockey and emphasizing counterattacks.
In their opening matchup against Toronto at home, the Canadiens recorded a shutout victory 1-0. However, the standout performance came from goalie Sam Montembeault, who showcased his skills by saving an impressive 48 shots. Such performances are rare, so Montreal certainly needs to improve its defensive play.
Injuries and Suspensions
Harvey-Pinard, Laine, Price, and Wideman will miss the game due to injuries.
Notable Betting Trends
- On average, Montreal generates 26 shots per game.
The Canadiens are not known for their shot volume, spending much of their time focusing on defense.
- Statistically, they average 26 hits per game.
Montreal has to play a physical style of hockey to reduce the number of scoring chances against them.
Trends
Bet 1st period: total under 1.5 goals
In the last five matches involving the away team, the first period has been scoreless
1.95Bet 2nd period: both teams to score
In four out of the last five home matches, both teams scored in the second period
2.25Tip and bets
We believe that Boston will bounce back from their loss to Florida and deliver a strong performance in front of their fans. The Bruins have previously dominated Montreal at home, securing wins by multiple goals. The Canadiens will likely adopt a defensive strategy, waiting for their chances similar to their game against Toronto. However, it seems unlikely that Montembeault will replicate an outstanding performance with over 40 saves this time around.
Prediction - Boston to win at 1.65
Bet on Individual Total
In recent matches, Montreal has not been a high-scoring team. In three out of four recent encounters against the Bruins, the Canadiens struggled to score even three goals. They usually spend most of the game on defense, so placing a bet on their individual total makes sense.
We recommend betting on Montreal's individual total to be under 2.5 goals at 1.67
Bet on Total Goals
Several of Montreal's previous matches have ended with fewer than six goals. Following a six-goal defeat against Florida, Boston will likely aim to tighten their defense and put in a strong performance in front of their home crowd.
We advise betting on the total to be under 5.5 goals with odds of 2.15
