Bruins vs. Maple Leafs predictions: Boston looks to snap first losing streak
Bruins #Bruins
Charlie McAvoy celebrates after scoring in the second period. AP Photo/Steven Senne
It’s an interesting spot to make Bruins vs. Maple Leafs predictions, given Boston is suffering its first real losing streak of the season.
After putting together arguably the best start to an NHL season in history, the Bruins have now lost three straight games.
Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs have finally put it all together, boasting a 5-1-1 record over the past seven games.
So, can the surging Maple Leafs take advantage of the slumping Bruins in Toronto Wednesday night?
Let’s dive into the odds and predictions for this monster NHL matchup.
Ohio sports betting is live! Check out the best Ohio sports betting sites and apps here.
Bruins vs. Maple Leafs odds
Spread: Bruins (-134) vs. Maple Leafs (+112)
Moneyline: Bruins -1.5 (+194) vs. Maple Leafs +1.5 (-245)
Total: Over 6 (-104) | Under 6 (-118)
Bruins vs. Maple Leafs predictions Boston Bruins ML (-134) at FanDuel Sportsbook
You could argue that the Bruins are slumping.
Or, you could argue this is the first good buy-low spot of Boston’s season.
Yes, the Bruins have lost three straight games. However, all three came on the road against great teams: the Lightning, Panthers and Hurricanes. Moreover, two of those losses came by one goal, including one in overtime.
Boston is slightly depressed in the market thanks to the Bruins’ losing streak, but every team goes through tough and unlucky stretches. And this is an excellent spot for a big bounce-back winning effort.
This is a good spot, too, considering Toronto’s recent performance. The Maple Leafs have been vulnerable defensively, giving up many high-danger chances over the past few weeks.
However, Toronto covers up its poor defense with an explosive offense. Toronto is third in the NHL in Expected Goals For and fifth in High Danger Shots For, per Money Puck.
But Toronto will be hard-pressed to cover up its defense with its offense against Boston, which boasts a defense that has allowed the sixth-fewest High Danger Shots Against in the NHL and a goaltender with the highest Goals Saved Above Expected mark, per Money Puck.
The Bruins can stifle opposing offenses and has a top line that will take advantage of a lackadaisical defense. Plus, the Leafs are expected to accomplish this without Auston Matthews, who is still injured with a knee sprain.
Ultimately, it’s a bad matchup for the shorthanded Maple Leafs, and we’re getting excellent value with the Bruins thanks to a timely, overrated losing streak. I’ll happily buy the Bruins ML (-134) at FanDuel Sportsbook.
This content was created by a Boston.com partner. The editorial department of Boston.com had no role in writing, production, or display. Boston.com may be compensated for publishing this content and/or receive a commission on purchases of products or services described within the post.