NHL Stanley Cup Final Picks & Predictions: Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes (Game 1)
The Stanley Cup Final gets underway on Tuesday night, and we should be in for a fantastic series with two experienced, physical teams squaring off in this best-of-seven series. The Vegas Golden Knights (0-0) are priced as slim +130 underdogs to win the series, while the Carolina Hurricanes come back at -155 to hoist the Stanley Cup for the first time since 2005-06. I've got you covered if you're looking for some Game 1 action. Below, I'll dive into all of the key trends and metrics, touch on the head-to-head data between the teams and lay out my favorite NHL Stanley Cup Final picks for Game 1. Puck drop is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET from the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, NC.
Tuesday’s Best NHL Stanley Cup Final Picks
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Vegas Golden Knights (+130) vs. Carolina Hurricanes (-155) | O/U 5.5 (-118/-102)
The Game 1 betting odds are the exact same as the series odds, with the Golden Knights coming in at +130 underdogs, while the Hurricanes sit at -155 to win the home opener. The total is set at 5.5 goals.
These clubs met twice during the regular season, with both matchups coming in late October. The Golden Knights went 2-0-0, notching 4-1 and 6-3 victories.
I'm not going to try to convince anyone that there's some magical edge in this matchup. The truth is, we have two elite teams in top form squaring off. You can probably make a great argument for backing either team to win Game 1.
When a 50-50 situation like this arises, I always think it's best to simply bet the underdog and take the plus-money payout. That means riding with Vegas at +130 in the series opener.
Vegas has been incredible under head coach John Tortorella, going 19-4-1 in the 24 games since he took over. They just dominated the Presidents’ Trophy-winning Avalanche - the pre-tournament favorites - in just four games. The Golden Knights have won six straight overall.
Additionally, Carter Hart continues to put together a masterful Stanley Cup playoff run, entering the championship series with a 12-4-0 record, 2.22 GAA and .924 SV%. His 7.7 goals saved above expected is the fourth-best mark in the postseason.
I like the depth that Vegas possesses as well. They're receiving contributions from their stars, as well as depth players like Brett Howden (10 goals, two assists) and Tomas Hertl (three goals, six assists). Their 12 forwards have combined to average 3.45 goals per 60 minutes this postseason (second).
There's no reason why Vegas shouldn't be able to keep this game competitive. I view it much closer to a pick’em. When you factor in that the Knights went 2-0-0 against the Hurricanes this season, they'll be up for the task tonight. Give me Vegas in Game 1.
Bet: Golden Knights Moneyline (+130)