NHL 4 Nations Face-Off Predictions: USA vs. Canada (Saturday)
All four teams will play on Saturday. The results of these games could shift the perception of who the best teams are. Here are our top picks for Saturday’s NHL 4 Nations Face-Off game USA vs. Canada.
Saturday’s 4 Nations Face-Off Best Bets: USA vs. Canada
(4 Nations Face-Off odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
USA vs. Canada
This could be a preview of a championship matchup, as these two teams seem to be the best in the tournament.
The USA started slowly, with only two goals in the first period, but they exploded in the third. They pulled away quickly, scoring two goals in the first minute of the third period, ultimately leading to four in a 6-1 win over Finland. The Tkachuk brothers were the leaders of that period, with Matthew scoring all three of his points (one goal and two assists) and Brady scoring his second goal.
The defense was nearly flawless. Connor Hellebuyck allowed Finland to get the early lead, but he was perfect after that. The blue line was impenetrable, allowing just 21 shots on goal, and they never allowed Finland to be a threat.
Canada looked like they were going to cruise to a win against Sweden, but they let a 3-1 lead going into the third period slip away and they had to go to overtime to win. This isn't like the NHL points system, where you get the maximum number of points by just winning - a regulation win is worth three points while winning in overtime is worth only two. Depending on how this tournament plays out, that could come back to haunt them.
This offense looks fantastic when you see the reigning Hart Trophy winner Nathan MacKinnon, who grabbed an early goal, two-time Hart Trophy winner Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby, who always seems to come up big when he's playing for his home country. Crosby had three assists in the first game.
Canada’s uncertainty is who will be in the net. Jordan Binnington had a .885 save percentage against Sweden. Head coach Jon Cooper did not announce a starter. Adin Hill will serve as the backup.
We've seen both offenses shine so far in this tournament. Canada's questions at goalie could help the USA, but don't look for Helleuyck to be as good as he was in the first game.
Pick: Over 6.5 Goals (+100)