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The pick — Predators ML vs. Stars (-105, BetMGM)
Dallas kicks off its season with a road date in Nashville against the new-look Predators. The Stars are a trendy Stanley Cup pick, having brought back the core that led them to the Western Conference Final. Nashville, which was ousted in the first round of the playoffs last season, spent a total of $108.5 million to sign Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault and Brady Skjei to add postseason experience to its roster.
No matter the records, these teams always play relatively close, exciting games. This contest should be no different. Last season, Dallas and Nashville split the season series 2-2 with each squad winning both games on the road.
Even with the return of their core, the Stars will look very different on the blue line with a potential of three new faces among the six spots Thursday night. The back end was always Dallas’ Achilles heel, so it will take time for the new defensemen to acclimate to Peter DeBoer’s system.
That’s why I like the home team to come out on top. The vibes will be high in Nashvegas with Stamkos and Marcheassult making their debuts. You could take the Predators on the three-way line at +140, but knowing this bunch, the game could end up in OT or a shootout. Both teams will have a big say in who wins the Central Division.
Bonus pick — Macklin Celebrini OVER 2.5 shots on goal vs. Blues (+105, BetMGM)
I hit this prop Tuesday with 2023 No. 1 overall pick Connor Bedard, so why not try it again with the 2024 No. 1 overall pick?
In its season-opening 3-2 victory in Seattle on Tuesday, St. Louis gave up 30 shots on goal against a Kraken squad not exactly known for its offensive chops. The Shark Tank will be buzzing, so expect Celebrini to keep firing away to entertain the fans in San Jose.
Season record: 2-0, +2.45 units