Flames vs Bruins Prediction NHL Picks Today 12/17

Lm Tipster
Dec 17, 2024, 5:11:29 AM

Boston Bruins vs. Calgary Flames: NHL Predictions

The Boston Bruins face the Calgary Flames in a non-conference clash on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary, Alberta. Both teams are looking to build momentum as they fight for position in their respective divisions.

Game Details

Event	Boston Bruins vs. Calgary Flames
Time	7:00 PM ET, December 17, 2024
Location	Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary, AB
TV Coverage	ESPN+
Betting Line	Total: 5.5 Goals (Over -110, Under -110)

Boston Bruins

The Bruins enter this game with a 16-13-3 record and are in the middle of a competitive Atlantic Division. Despite their strong defensive reputation in previous seasons, Boston has had some struggles keeping opponents off the scoreboard, as evidenced by their 3.16 goals allowed per game.

Offense

Boston’s offense is led by David Pastrnak and Brad Marchand. Pastrnak, with 32 points (11 goals, 21 assists), remains the team’s focal point. Marchand leads the team in goals (13) and continues to produce in high-pressure moments. However, secondary scoring has been inconsistent, with Boston relying heavily on their top line to generate offense.

The Bruins average 2.56 goals per game, which is below the league average. Despite this, recent performances suggest signs of improvement, as they scored a combined 13 goals in their last three victories. Their ability to capitalize on power-play opportunities (13.0% efficiency) remains a concern, but their offensive push has been better on the road in recent outings.

Defense and Goaltending

Defensively, the Bruins are struggling to meet their usual standards, allowing an uncharacteristic 3.16 goals per game. Starting goaltender Jeremy Swayman has been inconsistent with a 3.16 GAA and .888 save percentage. Backup Joonas Korpisalo provides a slight improvement but has not been able to steal games consistently.

With Boston prone to giving up high-danger chances and struggling against aggressive forechecking teams, this matchup could present problems against Calgary’s offensive pressure.

Calgary Flames

The Flames boast a 15-11-5 record and are one of the stronger teams at home, posting an 11-4-1 mark. Calgary has displayed a balanced offense and solid goaltending but has also shown defensive lapses against strong offensive teams.

Offense

Calgary’s offense averages 2.61 goals per game, led by Jonathan Huberdeau and MacKenzie Weegar. Huberdeau has notched 11 goals and 10 assists, while Weegar has contributed 12 assists. The Flames’ offense thrives on generating scoring chances from the cycle and capitalizing on rebounds.

The Flames also feature a capable power play, operating at 20.9%, which ranks well in the league. At home, their offense has been far more potent, averaging nearly 3 goals per game in Calgary.

Defense and Goaltending

Defensively, Calgary allows 3.03 goals per game. While Dan Vladar and Dustin Wolf have been steady, they have struggled against teams with elite goal-scorers, as seen in recent losses to the Tampa Bay Lightning (8-3) and Dallas Stars (6-2).

With injuries piling up, Calgary’s depth on defense has been tested. The absence of consistent blue-line play has resulted in high-scoring games, particularly against teams with top-line offensive weapons like the Bruins.

Key Matchups

David Pastrnak vs. Calgary’s Defense: Pastrnak’s ability to create scoring chances will challenge Calgary’s defense, which has been prone to breakdowns against high-powered forwards.
Jonathan Huberdeau vs. Bruins’ Goaltending: Huberdeau’s offensive creativity will test Boston’s struggling goaltending tandem of Swayman and Korpisalo.
Special Teams Battle: Calgary’s 20.9% power play could take advantage of Boston’s penalty kill, which has been average at 77.5%.

Betting Trends

Boston: The total has gone OVER in 4 of Boston’s last 6 games.
Calgary: The total has gone OVER in 6 of Calgary’s last 8 home games.
The previous meeting between these teams ended in a 4-3 OT win for the Bruins, hitting the over on a 5.5 total.

Prediction

Both teams enter this game with offensive momentum and defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in goaltending. Calgary plays better at home, where their offense tends to shine, while Boston’s top line remains one of the most dangerous in the NHL. Given the struggles both teams have had defensively and the scoring potential on display, this game sets up perfectly for a high-scoring affair.