In this article, we will formulate a Predators vs Ducks prediction for this NHL game on Thursday, March 20 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, TN. Let’s take a look at the prediction for this NHL matchup.
Anaheim Ducks Betting Preview
The Anaheim Ducks (29-31-8, 47-21 ATS) have been struggling over the past month or so as they suffered nine defeats in 13 games. The Ducks lost four of the last five, falling to the Capitals, Hockey Club, Blues, and Stars, while the lone win came against the Predators. Anaheim is 6th in the Pacific Division Standings with 66 points, 20 behind the leaders Golden Knights.
The Ducks average 2.63 goals per game this year (29th), while they allow 3.13 GPG (21st). Troy Terry leads the team with 50 points (18 G and 32 A). Mason McTavish contributes 41 points (18 G and 23 A), while Frank Vatrano has 41 points (20 G and 21 A).
Lukas Dostal (20-18-6) will likely take his place in the cage for the Ducks on Thursday against the Predators. The 24-year-old is allowing 2.96 goals per game this year with a .908 SV% and one shutout.
Nashville Predators Betting Preview
The Nashville Predators (25-34-8, 27-40 ATS) went through a solid span of results as they recorded four consecutive victories. However, the Predators returned to their losing ways with defeats to the Ducks, Kings, and Blues, scoring just two goals in the process. Nashville is 7th in the Central Division Standings with 58 points, nine ahead of the last-placed Blackhawks and 40 behind the top-placed Jets.
The Predators score 2.55 goals per game on average (31st), while they concede 3.25 GPG (26th). This season, Filip Forsberg leads the team with 60 points (25 G and 35 A). Jonathan Marchessault has 48 points (19 G and 29 A), while Steven Stamkos chips in with 43 points (22 G and 21 A).
Juuse Saros (16-27-6) is expected to start for the Predators at the goal on Thursday against the Ducks. The 29-year-old is allowing 2.94 goals per game this year with a .896 SV% and four shutouts.
Why the Ducks will cover
- The underdogs have won four of the last five games between the Ducks and Predators.
- The Predators have lost six of their last seven games as favorites following a loss.
- The Ducks have covered the puck line in nine of their last 10 games as underdogs against Western Conference opponents.
- The Predators have failed to cover the puck line in each of their last four games against opponents on a losing streak.
- The Predators have lost the third period in each of their last five games at Bridgestone Arena when trailing after the second period.
Total Goals Facts
- Seven of the Predators’ last eight night games against Western Conference opponents have gone UNDER the total goals line.
- Four of the Ducks’ last five night games at Bridgestone Arena have gone UNDER the total goals line.
- The ‘Over 1.5 Goals Period 3′ market has hit in 12 of the Ducks’ last 13 night games at Bridgestone Arena.
- The ‘Over 2.5 Goals Period 1′ market has hit in three of the Predators’ last four games following a home loss.
Matchup/League Facts
- The Nashville Predators rank 32nd in the league for Period 3 goals scored per game this season (0.88).
- The Nashville Predators rank T30th in the league in short-handed goals this season (1).
- The Anaheim Ducks rank 28th in the league in penalty kill percentage this season (72.82%).
- The Anaheim Ducks rank 32nd in the league for shots against per game this season (32.1).
Predators vs Ducks Prediction
The Predators won six of the previous ten H2H encounters, but the Ducks were victorious in four of the last five, including both H2H duels this season. Anaheim won 5-2 and 2-1, respectively, both at home, and I think the Ducks have a chance in this one. They have been excellent against the spread this season (47-21), and I am backing the Ducks to cover once again and not lose by more than a goal. I wouldn’t be shocked if they managed to win. The Predators have only covered the Puck Line in 34 of their last 87 games. Back the Ducks to cover.