The Vancouver Canucks have hit an all-time low.
Following one of the worst road trips in their history, in which he they conceded 19 goals across three games, and lost each one in embarrassing fashion, Vancouver returns home looking for any glimmer of hope.
The Canucks, sitting with a record of 5-9-2, occupy seventh place in the Pacific Division, and are also currently positioned six points out of the second wild card spot in the Western Conference. With their current trend of dismal play, Vancouver is in massive danger of dropping out of playoff contention before the new year hits.
On Wednesday night, the Canucks welcome the Colorado Avalanche to Rogers Arena for the second matchup in the last week. Following a 7-1 waxing by Colorado last Thursday, Vancouver needs a vastly improved performance to keep the game in-check and competitive come Wednesday.
The Canucks’ special teams continue to become less and less special each night, with their penalty kill efficiency being dead last across the NHL. If changes and adjustments aren’t made by head coach Travis Green and his players, Colorado’s fifth best offence should feast like they did last time, in which they went 66% on the powerplay.
With the fan and media pressure mounting on the team, each night feels like it could be the last for Green, General Manager Jim Benning, and their staff. Even though upper-management’s incompetence lowers the chance of this occurring, change must surely be made if the trends continue. In other words, if the Canucks don’t show any desperation or passion on Thursday, willing their way to at least one point, then we could reach a vital point in the franchise’s history.
Due to his extended rest, expect the Canucks to return to starter Thatcher Demko between the posts, while Colorado should play incumbent starter Darcy Kuemper at the opposite end of the rink.
The odds for Thursday’s game between the Canucks and Avalanche are courtesy of WynnBET Sportsbook, the official betting partner of FanSided.
Canucks vs. Avalanche Odds and Totals:
Moneyline:
Canucks +140
Avalanche -155
Total:
6.0 goals (over +105 // under -125)
Puckline:
Canucks +1.5 at -175
Avalanche -1.5 at +155
Canucks vs. Avalanche Prediction:
In the world of betting, you make picks based on what you think will happen, not what you want to happen. In this scenario, despite maybe wanting to take the Canucks in hopes of casting them back into form, don’t bet with your heart. Taking the Avalanche -1.5 on the puckline is the smart move here, given its productive odds being at +155. Factor in Vancouver’s defensive wreckage, as well as their continued failed coverage over their three recent losses, fade the Canucks until they prove you otherwise.
Pick: Avalanche -1.5 at +155
What are your thoughts on this upcoming matchup between the Canucks and Avalanche? What bets will you placing for this game? Let us know your thoughts down below in the comment section!