NHL predictions: Kings rising to the challenge

Facing the heat from the Vegas Golden Knights for the third slot in the Pacific Division, the Los Angeles Kings have counteracted with a commendable four-match winning sequence to hold onto their position.

Even though the Kings faced a rough patch mid-season, their performance has been on an upward trajectory for quite some time. Over their last 25 matches, they boast a record of 16-7-2. During this period, the Kings have dominated with 51.5 percent of shot attempts and 52.2 percent of score-and-venue-adjusted expected goals at five-on-five play, placing them among the top ten in these metrics.

The return of Kings winger Viktor Arvidsson to the team on March 20, after being sidelined due to injuries for most of the season, has been a boon. Arvidsson has played only seven games this season, but the Kings have emerged victorious in each of these encounters, suggesting his presence might be the charm needed for a stellar season finale.

The Kings currently stand at +2976* for clinching the Stanley Cup and are set to face the Edmonton Oilers this Thursday.

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The Winnipeg Jets, currently on a four-game losing streak, present a significant challenge at their home ground. With a record of 23-9-3 in 35 games at the Canada Life Centre, they hold a .700 points percentage, ranking them sixth.

The Jets are hosting the Vegas Golden Knights, who seem to be getting their act together, posting a 6-2-1 record since the trade deadline. However, this presents a challenging spot in their schedule as this game marks their third in four nights. Their road trip began with an overtime victory at St. Louis on Monday, followed by an overtime defeat at Nashville on Tuesday.

This match provides the Jets with an excellent chance to realign against a formidable team, despite the latter's grueling schedule.

Jets ML (-124*)

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The Ottawa Senators had loftier aspirations for this season but continue to showcase the talent that sparked high expectations at the onset of the 2023-2024 season. The Sens are on a three-game winning streak, overpowering their rivals 16-7.

Having played at Buffalo on Wednesday, the Senators are facing a back-to-back game scenario but will be hosting the Chicago Blackhawks, a team that struggles to capitalize on road games.

With a dismal 6-28-1 record away from home, translating to a league-low .186 points percentage, Chicago has lost 24 of those 28 road games by at least two goals.

The Senators are poised to widen the gap against the Blackhawks, potentially leading to another considerable loss for Chicago on the road.

Senators -1.5 (+131*)

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In a desperate bid to remain in contention for the Western Conference playoffs, the Minnesota Wild have been dominant, securing over 55 percent of expected goals in the past month.

The Wild are up against the San Jose Sharks, who are likely to secure the first pick in the draft lottery to select Boston University freshman Macklin Celebrini. The Sharks have the league's highest goals against average over the past month at 4.82.

San Jose has seen more than six goals in all but one of their last seven matches. With just one victory in their previous 18 matches, not only is their losing streak expected to persist, but the Wild should push the game's total Over.

Sharks-Wild Over 6 (-114*)

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Nashville Predators winger Gustav Nyquist, at the age of 34, is silently enjoying the best season of his career. He has amassed a career-high of 65 points in 72 games and is currently on a six-game point streak, with nine points. He has scored in 20 of 35 road games.

The Predators, riding an 18-game point streak, are headed to Arizona for a clash with the Coyotes at Mullett Arena. Arizona's defense has been underwhelming. Over the last month, the Coyotes have the highest expected goals against per 60 minutes in the NHL at 3.78.

Nyquist, on a hot streak against a below-par defense, represents a prime opportunity to continue his scoring streak.

Gustav Nyquist Over 0.5 points (-141*) Now you know today's NHL predictions. Sign Up Now or click HERE to play at 7x7Bets, the most reliable and trustworthy online casino in India. Don't forget to claim your withdrawable real money welcome deposit bonus, weekly cashback bonus and referral bonus!