NHL Predictions for All 13 Games on April 5, 2025 – Odds, Player Props & Game Previews

Kingpin
Apr 5, 2025, 2:07:35 AM

NHL Saturday Preview: Predictions and Props for April 5, 2025

Introduction:
A jam-packed Saturday of NHL action on April 5, 2025, brings 13 games featuring heated rivalries, playoff positioning battles, and marquee superstar showdowns. From a Metropolitan Division grudge match in New Jersey to late-night Pacific Division clashes, fans can expect a full day of high-stakes hockey. Below we break down each matchup with moneyline and spread predictions, over/under picks, key player props to watch, and a brief game preview for every contest.

Whether it’s the Tkachuk brothers facing off in Ottawa or a potential playoff preview between Edmonton and Los Angeles, this slate has something for everyone. Let’s dive into Saturday’s matchups with an eye on odds and the players likely to make an impact.

Check out these articles for winning picks:

New York Rangers at New Jersey Devils (12:30 PM ET, ABC/ESPN+)

Moneyline: New Jersey -120 (Devils favored)
Spread (Puck Line): New York +1.5
Total (Over/Under): Over 5.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Jack Hughes (NJD) – Anytime Goal: Hughes is the Devils’ offensive catalyst and a good bet to find the net in this rivalry game.
Artemi Panarin (NYR) – Over 0.5 Assists: Panarin’s playmaking is crucial for New York; he’s poised to set up at least one goal.
Igor Shesterkin (NYR) – Over 29.5 Saves: The Rangers’ star goalie should face a high volume of shots from New Jersey’s attack, giving him a chance to rack up saves.

Preview: The Hudson River rivalry is renewed as the Rangers visit the Devils in a matinee showdown. New Jersey comes in as a slight home favorite, looking to secure a playoff spot with their balanced offense and team speed. Jack Hughes and Nico Hischier lead a Devils squad that has been surging offensively. On the other side, New York is fighting to keep its wildcard hopes alive. The Rangers will lean on veteran stars Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad to generate scoring, while goalie Igor Shesterkin tries to steal a road win. Expect a fast-paced, hard-hitting game; the Devils’ home-ice advantage and scoring depth could be the difference in a close contest that might see plenty of offense.

Florida Panthers at Ottawa Senators (2:00 PM ET, ESPN+)

Moneyline: Florida -125 (slight favorites)
Spread (Puck Line): Florida -1.5 (+190)
Total (Over/Under): Over 5.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Matthew Tkachuk (FLA) – Over 1.5 Points: Tkachuk thrives in high-intensity games and will be eager to rack up points against his brother’s team.
Brady Tkachuk (OTT) – Anytime Goal: Not to be outdone, Brady brings physical play and scoring touch for Ottawa and is a threat to light the lamp.
Tim Stützle (OTT) – Over 2.5 Shots on Goal: Stützle’s creativity leads to plenty of shots; he should generate multiple scoring chances in this matchup.

Preview: A Tkachuk family reunion highlights this matchup as Matthew’s Panthers face Brady’s Senators. Florida enters as a narrow favorite, aiming to solidify their playoff positioning. The Panthers have been on a roll thanks to strong two-way play from Aleksander Barkov and the MVP-caliber impact of Matthew Tkachuk. Meanwhile, Ottawa has turned into a dangerous spoiler in the Eastern Conference. The Senators, led by their captain Brady Tkachuk and rising star Tim Stützle, boast an offense that can trade blows with anyone. Both teams play an up-tempo style, so expect plenty of scoring chances. Florida’s experience and depth give them an edge, but Ottawa’s home crowd and youthful energy will keep this contest razor-close. This could easily turn into a high-scoring affair decided in the final minutes.

Pittsburgh Penguins at Dallas Stars (3:00 PM ET, ABC/ESPN+)

Moneyline: Dallas -290 (heavy favorites)
Spread (Puck Line): Dallas -1.5 (-110)
Total (Over/Under): Over 6.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Jason Robertson (DAL) – Anytime Goal: Robertson’s elite scoring touch makes him a prime candidate to bury a goal against Pittsburgh’s leaky defense.
Sidney Crosby (PIT) – Over 0.5 Points: Even in a down year for Pittsburgh, Crosby’s pride and playmaking should get him on the scoresheet with at least one point.
Jake Oettinger (DAL) – Under 2.5 Goals Allowed: The Stars’ goaltender has been rock-solid at home, and he’ll look to keep the Penguins’ offense in check with a strong outing.

Preview: The Stars are big favorites at home as they host a Penguins team that has struggled this season. Dallas has already clinched a playoff berth and is pushing for the top seed in the Central Division. Their offense, powered by Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, and veteran Joe Pavelski, has been scoring in bunches. On the back end, goalie Jake Oettinger and a stout defense make the Stars a well-rounded powerhouse. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, is playing for pride after a difficult campaign that sees them likely missing the playoffs. Longtime leaders Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin will still compete hard, hoping to spark the Penguins and perhaps play spoiler. Dallas’ high-powered attack versus Pittsburgh’s suspect defense tilts this matchup heavily in the Stars’ favor. Unless Crosby and company can summon some vintage magic, the Stars should control the game and could put up a big number on the scoreboard.

Anaheim Ducks at Vancouver Canucks (4:00 PM ET, ESPN+)

Moneyline: Vancouver -185 (favorites)
Spread (Puck Line): Anaheim +1.5
Total (Over/Under): Under 5.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Elias Pettersson (VAN) – Over 0.5 Goals: Pettersson’s sniper instincts at home make him a good bet to score, especially facing a Ducks defense that struggles.
Quinn Hughes (VAN) – Over 0.5 Assists: Hughes quarterbacks the Canucks’ power play and should log an assist with his elite passing from the blue line.
Trevor Zegras (ANA) – Over 0.5 Points: Zegras brings creativity for Anaheim and is likely to register a point, whether through a highlight-reel assist or a goal.

Preview: In a Pacific Division battle of non-playoff teams, the Canucks host the Ducks in what serves as a showcase for young talent. Vancouver has been playing better hockey down the stretch and enters as the clear favorite. Elias Pettersson is the offensive engine for the Canucks, and he’s supported by J.T. Miller and Brock Boeser in generating goals. Look for defenseman Quinn Hughes to impact the game with puck movement and power-play assists. Anaheim’s rebuilding season has had bright spots in the form of Trevor Zegras and Mason McTavish, who represent the future of the franchise. The Ducks have struggled defensively, but goalie John Gibson is capable of stealing a game if he gets hot. This matchup may not affect the standings, but both teams will be eager to give their fans a glimpse of hope for next season. Expect Vancouver’s home crowd to energize the Canucks to finish strong, while the Ducks will fight to play spoiler and gain experience for their young core.

Edmonton Oilers at Los Angeles Kings (4:00 PM ET, ESPN+)

Moneyline: Los Angeles -170 (favorites)
Spread (Puck Line): Edmonton +1.5
Total (Over/Under): Over 5.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Connor McDavid (EDM) – Over 1.5 Points: McDavid lives for big moments and tends to shine against top competition, making a multi-point night a strong possibility.
Adrian Kempe (LAK) – Anytime Goal: Kempe has been a clutch goal scorer for L.A. and could capitalize on an Oilers defense focused heavily on the top line.
Leon Draisaitl (EDM) – Over 0.5 Power Play Goals: With Edmonton’s league-best power play, Draisaitl’s one-timer on the man advantage is a constant threat to convert at least once.

Preview: Two Western Conference contenders clash in a possible playoff preview as the Oilers visit the Kings. Los Angeles has been nearly unbeatable on home ice this season, boasting one of the league’s best home records. Anze Kopitar and his Kings bring a structured defensive game and balanced scoring, with Adrian Kempe and Kevin Fiala providing offensive punch. The Oilers counter with the NHL’s most dynamic duo: Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Edmonton’s superstars can change a game in an instant, especially on the power play, which makes discipline key for the Kings. This game has a playoff atmosphere written all over it — these teams have a budding rivalry after meeting in the postseason the last two years. Expect intensity, physical play, and highlight-reel skill. The Kings’ defense and goaltending will try to contain Edmonton’s firepower, but if McDavid and Draisaitl find open ice, the scoreboard will light up quickly. This one could be an evening thriller on the West Coast with plenty of goals.

Carolina Hurricanes at Boston Bruins (7:00 PM ET, ESPN+)

Moneyline: Carolina -200 (favorites)
Spread (Puck Line): Carolina -1.5 (+130)
Total (Over/Under): Under 5.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Sebastian Aho (CAR) – Anytime Goal: Aho’s scoring touch and Boston’s defensive lapses make him a solid pick to put one in the net.
David Pastrnak (BOS) – Over 4.5 Shots on Goal: Pastrnak will be firing from everywhere as the Bruins’ main offensive weapon; expect him to pile up shots even against Carolina’s stingy defense.
Frederik Andersen (CAR) – Over 26.5 Saves: The Hurricanes’ netminder should see a decent workload, and his steady goaltending can frustrate a Boston team trying to break through.

Preview: In a matchup of teams that have traded places in the East’s hierarchy, the Hurricanes visit the Bruins at TD Garden. Carolina is a powerhouse this season, leading the Metropolitan Division with a deep, fast lineup and remarkable road record. The Canes roll four lines and feature a suffocating defense anchored by Jaccob Slavin and Brent Burns. Offensively, Sebastian Aho and Andrei Svechnikov (if healthy) spearhead a group that can score in waves. Conversely, Boston has had a surprisingly difficult year after last season’s record-setting campaign. The Bruins’ offense leans heavily on David Pastrnak, who continues to be among the league’s top goal scorers, but they’ve struggled to find secondary scoring. Boston’s pride and home-ice advantage mean they won’t go quietly, and goalie Linus Ullmark will need to be sharp to keep them in it. Carolina’s aggressive forecheck and depth make them the favorites to win, but if this turns into a tight, low-scoring battle, Boston could hang around. Look for the Hurricanes to impose their style and for the Bruins to counter with physicality as they try to play spoiler against a Cup contender.

Tampa Bay Lightning at Buffalo Sabres (7:00 PM ET, ESPN+)

Moneyline: Tampa Bay -185 (favorites)
Spread (Puck Line): Tampa Bay -1.5 (+130)
Total (Over/Under): Over 6.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Nikita Kucherov (TB) – Over 1.5 Points: Kucherov’s elite vision and shot make him a multi-point threat against Buffalo’s porous defense.
Tage Thompson (BUF) – Anytime Goal: One of the NHL’s rising stars, Thompson’s booming shot could easily find twine on home ice, even against a strong Lightning squad.
Andrei Vasilevskiy (TB) – Over 32.5 Saves: The Lightning goalie may face a high volume of shots from Buffalo’s young guns, giving him a chance to rack up saves despite Tampa’s edge.

Preview: The Lightning travel north to face the Sabres in a classic offense-versus-offense showdown. Tampa Bay is gearing up for yet another postseason run, and their star-studded lineup is firing on all cylinders. Nikita Kucherov, Steven Stamkos, and Brayden Point lead a dynamic attack that has given the Sabres fits in past meetings. Buffalo, while likely out of the playoff picture, boasts an exciting group of young talent that can score in bunches. Tage Thompson has blossomed into a top goal scorer, and he’s joined by Dylan Cozens and Rasmus Dahlin as the cornerstones of the Sabres’ future. The big question will be whether Buffalo’s defense and goaltending can slow down Tampa’s relentless offense. This game has the potential to be a shootout; the Sabres often play high-event hockey, and the Lightning won’t shy away from trading chances. Look for plenty of end-to-end action and goals both ways. Tampa Bay’s experience makes them the safer bet to come out on top, but the Sabres’ youth and energy could make for an entertaining upset bid.

Columbus Blue Jackets at Toronto Maple Leafs (7:00 PM ET, ESPN+)

Moneyline: Toronto -200 (favorites)
Spread (Puck Line): Toronto -1.5 (+125)
Total (Over/Under): Over 6.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Auston Matthews (TOR) – Anytime Goal: Matthews’ lethal shot at Scotiabank Arena is a nightly threat; pencil him in to hit the back of the net against Columbus.
Mitch Marner (TOR) – Over 0.5 Power Play Assists: Marner’s playmaking on the power play should yield an assist as Toronto’s man-advantage unit looks to feast on the Jackets.
Johnny Gaudreau (CBJ) – Over 0.5 Points: Gaudreau’s skill can’t be overlooked, and he’s likely to produce a point, especially if the Jackets are playing catch-up and pressing offensively.

Preview: The Maple Leafs welcome the Blue Jackets in a matchup that heavily favors the home team on paper. Toronto has been one of the East’s top teams, with their offense humming behind Auston Matthews’ goal-scoring prowess and Mitch Marner’s all-around play. The Leafs are locked into a playoff spot and are fine-tuning their game for the postseason, so they’ll be motivated to put forth a strong effort. Columbus, on the other hand, is outside the playoff mix but has shown improvement this season. The Blue Jackets have a young core (including emerging rookie Adam Fantilli and sniper Patrik Laine when healthy) that can make them competitive on any given night. They’ll need a heroic effort from their goaltending to steal a win in Toronto. Expect the Leafs to come out flying; their high-powered offense can overwhelm Columbus’s defense. If the Blue Jackets fall behind early, it could snowball quickly. Still, players like Johnny Gaudreau will look to capitalize if Toronto lets off the gas. Ultimately, the skill and depth of the Maple Leafs should shine through in a game where the goals could pile up.

Philadelphia Flyers at Montreal Canadiens (7:00 PM ET, ESPN+)

Moneyline: Montreal -165 (favorites)
Spread (Puck Line): Montreal -1.5 (+160)
Total (Over/Under): Over 5.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Cole Caufield (MTL) – Anytime Goal: The Canadiens’ sharpshooter is always a good bet to score, especially against a Flyers squad that has had defensive lapses.
Nick Suzuki (MTL) – Over 0.5 Assists: Suzuki’s playmaking is the engine of Montreal’s offense; look for him to set up a goal with his crisp passing.
Travis Konecny (PHI) – Over 2.5 Shots on Goal: Konecny is Philly’s most dangerous forward and will likely register several shots as he presses to get the Flyers on the board.

Preview: Two storied franchises in rebuild mode meet as the Flyers visit the Canadiens. Montreal comes in as the favorite on home ice, buoyed by the scoring of Cole Caufield and the leadership of Nick Suzuki. The Habs have been playing with pride and energy, especially in front of the Bell Centre crowd, as they look to finish the season on a positive note. Philadelphia has endured an up-and-down year under a new front office direction, focusing on youth and effort. Winger Travis Konecny has been a bright spot with his scoring touch and tenacity, and veteran goalie Carter Hart will aim to backstop the Flyers to a road win. This game likely won’t feature playoff implications, but the young players on both sides have a lot to prove. Expect a fairly open game with mistakes and chances both ways. Montreal’s slight edge in skill and home atmosphere could be the tipping point, but the Flyers’ work ethic will make them a tough out. This matchup is all about the future, as each team hopes their budding stars can show flashes of brilliance to build on.

Colorado Avalanche at St. Louis Blues (7:00 PM ET, ESPN+)

Moneyline: Colorado -135 (favorites)
Spread (Puck Line): Colorado -1.5 (+185)
Total (Over/Under): Over 5.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Nathan MacKinnon (COL) – Over 1.5 Points: MacKinnon is in playoff form, using his speed and shot to drive Colorado’s offense; he’s a strong candidate for a multi-point game.
Cale Makar (COL) – Over 0.5 Power Play Assists: Makar’s quarterbacking of the Avs’ power play could easily result in a helper as he sets up the big guns from the point.
Jordan Kyrou (STL) – Anytime Goal: Kyrou’s quick release makes him the Blues’ best hope for a goal against a tough Avalanche defense.

Preview: Central Division foes collide as the Avalanche visit the Blues in St. Louis. Colorado has its sights set on solidifying playoff seeding, and they bring a stacked lineup featuring Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen, and Cale Makar. When the Avs are on their game, they play with speed and precision that few teams can match. St. Louis, meanwhile, is fighting to keep its postseason hopes alive and will treat this as a must-win scenario. The Blues have improved their record with a strong second half, led by forwards Jordan Kyrou and Robert Thomas providing offense, and the veteran presence of Brayden Schenn. Goaltender Jordan Binnington will need to recapture some of his old magic to stymie Colorado’s attack. These teams have a recent playoff history (including Colorado’s elimination of St. Louis in 2022), adding a bit of edge to the contest. Look for the Blues to come out physical and hungry, but if the Avalanche can weather that early storm, their superior talent should tilt the game in their favor. This one promises an exciting battle, with Colorado’s firepower slightly favored to prevail.

Winnipeg Jets at Utah Hockey Club (7:00 PM ET, NHL Network)

Moneyline: Winnipeg -140 (favorites)
Spread (Puck Line): Winnipeg -1.5 (+175)
Total (Over/Under): Over 5.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Kyle Connor (WPG) – Anytime Goal: Connor’s scoring consistency has been key to Winnipeg’s success; he’s a good pick to score against a new Utah squad still finding its footing.
Mark Scheifele (WPG) – Over 0.5 Assists: Scheifele drives the Jets’ top line and should notch an assist setting up one of Winnipeg’s finishers.
Clayton Keller (UTAH) – Over 0.5 Points: Keller, the standout forward for Utah’s club, is likely to get on the scoresheet as he has all season, even against a tough Jets defense.

Preview: The high-flying Jets head to Salt Lake City to take on the NHL’s newest team, the Utah Hockey Club, in a matchup that features a stark contrast in stakes. Winnipeg has been one of this season’s top teams – their record speaks for itself – and they’re looking to maintain momentum as a Stanley Cup contender. The Jets deploy a potent offense led by Kyle Connor’s goal scoring and Mark Scheifele’s playmaking, complemented by stout goaltending from Connor Hellebuyck. Utah, in its inaugural season after relocating the franchise, has been surprisingly competitive around the .500 mark. Young star Clayton Keller (carried over from the former Arizona team) and rookie sensation Logan Cooley give Utah fans hope for the future with their exciting play. In this contest, Winnipeg’s experience and depth make them clear favorites. Utah will relish the opportunity to test themselves against an elite opponent on home ice, feeding off a crowd excited by their first year in the league. Don’t count out the home team’s effort — they’ve pulled off upsets before — but if the Jets play to their capability, they should leave Utah with the win.

Vegas Golden Knights at Calgary Flames (10:00 PM ET, ESPN+)

Moneyline: Vegas -165 (favorites)
Spread (Puck Line): Vegas -1.5 (+160)
Total (Over/Under): Over 5.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Jack Eichel (VGK) – Over 0.5 Goals: Eichel has found his groove in Vegas and will look to exploit Calgary’s defense; he’s a strong bet to score in this one.
Jonathan Huberdeau (CGY) – Over 0.5 Assists: Huberdeau’s playmaking is vital for Calgary’s offense; expect him to set up a goal as the Flames push to keep pace.
Jacob Markström (CGY) – Over 28.5 Saves: The Flames’ goaltender should see plenty of rubber from the defending champs, giving him a chance to rack up saves even if Calgary trails.

Preview: The late slate features a compelling battle in Calgary as the Flames host the defending Stanley Cup champion Golden Knights. Vegas is once again among the West’s elite, and they’re playing like a team determined to make a deep run. Jack Eichel has been leading the charge offensively, backed by Mark Stone’s two-way excellence and a deep roster that knows how to win big games. Calgary, on the other hand, finds itself on the playoff bubble and desperately needing points at home. The Flames have had an inconsistent season but remain within striking distance of a wildcard spot. Stars like Jonathan Huberdeau and Elias Lindholm will need to step up and produce against a tough Vegas defense. This matchup could have a playoff feel, as Calgary treats it like a do-or-die scenario. Expect the Flames to come out with urgency, forechecking hard and trying to impose a physical tone. The Golden Knights are comfortable playing either a run-and-gun game or a tight-checking affair, so they’ll adapt as needed. In the end, Vegas’s depth and championship pedigree make them the favorites, but the sense of urgency for Calgary could make this a closer contest than the records suggest.

Seattle Kraken at San Jose Sharks (10:00 PM ET, ESPN+)

Moneyline: Seattle -170 (favorites)
Spread (Puck Line): Seattle -1.5 (+140)
Total (Over/Under): Under 6.5 goals

Key Player Props:

Jared McCann (SEA) – Anytime Goal: McCann has been one of Seattle’s top goal scorers; he’s a good candidate to strike against a weak Sharks defense.
Matty Beniers (SEA) – Over 0.5 Points: Last year’s Rookie of the Year, Beniers is looking to finish strong and should log a point as he drives the Kraken’s offense.
Tomas Hertl (SJS) – Over 2.5 Shots on Goal: With San Jose short on scoring options, Hertl will likely shoot often in an effort to generate offense, giving value to his shot total.

Preview: The nightcap pits the Kraken against the Sharks in San Jose. Seattle has had a disappointing season after last year’s playoff appearance, but they have a chance to end on a positive note. The Kraken are favored here, as they simply have more talent and depth than the struggling Sharks. Seattle will look for contributions from Jared McCann, who leads the team in goals, and Matty Beniers, who is gaining valuable experience in his sophomore season. San Jose has endured a rough year, sitting at the bottom of the standings and in the midst of a rebuild. Veterans Logan Couture and Tomas Hertl carry the load for the Sharks, but they’ve had little help and often find themselves overmatched. Still, San Jose’s prideful group will attempt to give the home fans something to cheer about in one of the final games of the season. We could see a looser defensive game with both teams out of contention, but goal-scoring has been a challenge for the Sharks all year. If Seattle plays up to its ability, they should control this game. The Kraken’s balanced attack and superior goaltending make them the likely victor, while the Sharks will focus on evaluating young players and looking ahead to lottery odds.

Summary:
This Saturday’s slate offers a bit of everything — rivalry grudge matches, star players in the spotlight, and teams jockeying for playoff positions or pride. With our moneyline and spread predictions favoring several contenders, keep an eye on potential upsets from hungry underdogs like Ottawa or Calgary fighting for their season. High-scoring affairs are on tap in games like Tampa Bay vs. Buffalo and Toronto vs. Columbus, while defensive strength could define matchups such as Carolina vs. Boston.

Hockey fans can look forward to drama from noon until late night. Will the favorites hold serve as the postseason nears, or will desperate teams throw a wrench into the playoff race? One thing’s for sure: with key players poised to shine (and some sibling rivalry in the mix), this April 5 lineup should deliver an action-packed spectacle. Get ready for a thrilling day of NHL hockey that could shake up the standings and provide plenty of highlight-reel moments.