Canucks: Betting odds and prediction vs. Avalanche (March 23rd)

The Vancouver Canucks have hit the most critical point of their 2021-22 regular season. Following three consecutive losses, two of which against sub-par teams, Vancouver’s playoff hopes have dampened with little time remaining in the season.

On Wednesday, the Canucks will start game one of their four-game road trip in which they hope to save their season, taking on the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena.

With just 18 games remaining in the season, Vancouver sits with a record of 30-26-8, and occupy fifth spot in the Pacific Division. Despite being only four points out of the second wild card spot in the conference, the Canucks’ remaining schedule of limited games, as well as their streaky form, present an uphill climb for the team’s postseason hopes.

The opponent on Wednesday, the Avalanche, are simply the best team in the NHL this regular season. Colorado are first in the Central Division by a whopping 17 points, and are very likely to claim the Presidents’ Trophy. Their 45-13-5 record puts them on pace to hit 123 points by the end of the campaign.

Led by head coach Jared Bednar, the Avalanche boasts talents including the likes of Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Mikko Rantanen. Colorado’s offensive output is the clear strong suit of the team, with their fifth-ranked power play and second-ranked goals per game providing them with the foundations of a dominant team.

The only visible weakness of the team is their 18th ranked penalty kill, which has an efficiency rate of 78.6%.

This will be third and final meeting between Vancouver and Colorado this season, with the Avalanche winning both games earlier in the year by scores of 7-1 and 4-2.

With both teams having at least one full day of rest prior to this game, expect starters Thatcher Demko and Darcy Kuemper to occupy the nets at Ball Arena.

The odds for Wednesday’s game between Vancouver and Colorado are courtesy of WynnBET Sportsbook, the official betting partner of FanSided.

Betting Odds

Moneyline

Vancouver +210

Colorado -260

Goal Total

Over 6.0 goals at -115

Under 6.0 goals at -105

Puckline

Vancouver +1.5 at -115

Colorado -1.5 at -105

Prediction

Given the Canucks’ play over the last week, they can’t be trusted to pull through in any games as of right now. Vancouver has been desperate for a while now whilst simultaneously playing poor teams and, despite this, are still finding different ways to let the fanbase down in back-breaking losses.

If we look at the previous two matchups between these teams this season, lots of goals are to be expected. With the over hitting in both games, we’re backing it to hit again in another high-scoring game. Colorado’s offence, especially their power play prowess, will excel at home against Vancouver’s poor defensive play and penalty kill.

Don’t put any money on the streaky Canucks, but trust that there will be a bundle of goals.

Pick: Over 6.0 goals at -115

What are your thoughts on this upcoming game between the Canucks and Avalanche? What bets will you be placing on the matchup? Let us know your feelings down below in the comment section!