The Calgary Flames (15-17-4) head to Edmonton to battle the Oilers (18-13-6) in the Battle of Alberta, a heated rivalry matchup that’s the second meeting of the 2025-26 season. The Flames snapped a rough stretch with a convincing 6-3 win over Vegas on December 20, showcasing offensive depth led by Mikael Backlund’s two-goal performance, but their road inconsistencies (6-11-2 away) face a stern test against an Oilers team that’s won four of its last six, including a 4-3 victory over Vegas on December 21. Edmonton dominated the first head-to-head on October 8, winning 4-3, but Calgary’s recent form suggests a closer contest. Expect a high-energy, physical game with potential for high scoring, as Edmonton’s explosive offense (3.5 GPG, 6th in NHL) clashes with Calgary’s leaky defense (3.2 GAA, 22nd), though the Flames’ penalty kill (80.4%, 16th) could neutralize the Oilers’ power play (22.6%, 12th).

Venue Location

Rogers Place, Edmonton, Alberta. This 18,347-seat arena has been a strong home for the Oilers this season (10-6-3), where they’ve outscored opponents by an average of 3.4-2.8 per game, fueled by a passionate crowd in rivalry matchups.

Puckdrop is set for 9:00 PM ET. The game will be broadcast on Sportsnet (Oilers feed) and SNW (Flames feed), with streaming available via ESPN+.

Injury Report

Both teams are dealing with significant absences, but the Oilers’ goaltending depth is tested, potentially forcing a backup into action. Reports as of December 22 evening.

Calgary Flames:

Out: Sam Honzek (upper body, surgery – out six months, missed 14 games), Zayne Parekh (upper body, missed 16 games), Jake Bean (D, lower body surgery – out indefinitely), Martin Pospisil (C, out since Dec. 6), Jonathan Huberdeau (undisclosed – day-to-day).

Questionable/Probable: Kevin Bahl (illness – missed 1 game, probable).

Notable Notes: Honzek and Parekh’s surgeries deplete forward and defensive depth, forcing reliance on veterans like Backlund for heavy minutes. Bean and Pospisil’s absences weaken the blue line and center ice, but Huberdeau’s potential return adds scoring punch.

Edmonton Oilers:

Out: Tristan Jarry (G, lower body – out a couple weeks, IR since Dec. 19), Kasperi Kapanen (RW, lower body – IR, expected Jan 3), Jake Walman (D, IR since Dec 19), Jack Roslovic (C, out), Alec Regula (D, day-to-day), Noah Philp (out another week).

Questionable/Probable: No major day-to-day reported; the team is monitoring Jarry’s replacement.

Notable Notes: Jarry’s injury forces Olivier Rodrigue or a backup into net, a potential weakness against Calgary’s offense. Kapanen and Walman’s absences thin the wings and defense, increasing load on Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

Player Matchups

The Oilers’ star power meets the Flames’ gritty veterans, with injuries tilting key battles toward Calgary’s depth if Huberdeau plays.

Connor McDavid (EDM) vs. Mikael Backlund (CGY): McDavid (25 goals, league leader) brings unmatched speed (8 power-play goals) against Backlund’s defensive prowess (recent 2-goal game). McDavid exploits Calgary’s 22nd-ranked PK (79.2%), but Backlund’s checking could disrupt.

Leon Draisaitl (EDM) vs. Rasmus Andersson (CGY): Draisaitl (20 goals, 25 assists) faces Andersson’s blocking (85 blocks). Draisaitl’s post play tests Calgary’s interior D, while Andersson’s puck-moving creates counterattacks.

Stuart Skinner (EDM) vs. Dustin Wolf (CGY): Skinner (.910 SV%) vs. Wolf (recent strong outings). Skinner’s home form (.920 SV%) limits Calgary’s shots (29.2 per game, 15th), but Wolf’s agility could keep it close if Edmonton pressures.

Other Key Battles: Evan Bouchard (EDM, offensive D) vs. Jonathan Huberdeau (CGY, if probable); Zach Hyman (EDM, net-front) vs. MacKenzie Weegar (CGY, physical D).

Recent Team Forms

The Flames are heating up with two straight wins, while the Oilers alternate victories in a 4-2 stretch.

Calgary Flames (Last 5 Games):

Form: 2-3-0 in last 5, averaging 3.0 GPG while allowing 3.2. The Vegas win snapped a skid, with Backlund’s 2 goals and strong third-period execution (outscored 3-1).

Edmonton Oilers (Last 5 Games):

Form: 3-1-1 in last 5, averaging 3.2 GPG while allowing 3.2. The Vegas win extended a strong stretch, with McDavid’s multi-points, but the Canucks SO loss showed overtime struggles.

Series History

Edmonton holds a strong recent edge, going 13-6-1 in the last 20 games vs. Calgary. All-time, the Oilers are 62-80-7 in 149 road games against the Flames, but they’ve won 7 of the last 10 overall. The series has been competitive, with games averaging 5.8 total goals in the last 10, and the Oilers leading playoffs 5-1 in series.

8

Betting Trends

Over is 4-1 in Oilers’ last 5 as favorites; under is 3-2 in Flames’ last 5 road games. Oilers 4-1 in last 5 vs. Flames; Flames 2-3 ATS after a win. Oilers 3-2 ATS in last 5 home games.

Game Odds

Calgary Flames                 6.5

Edmonton Oilers              – 166

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The Colorado Avalanche, boasting one of the NHL’s most dominant records this season, host the Utah Mammoth in a Central Division clash at Ball Arena. Colorado’s high-powered offense, led by Nathan MacKinnon, faces a Utah team that’s been inconsistent but has shown resilience with recent wins against tough opponents. With Utah dealing with key absences and Colorado riding a hot streak, this pre-Christmas matchup could see the Avalanche extend their home dominance, though Utah’s underdog status might inspire a competitive effort. Below is a detailed breakdown.

Venue Location

Ball Arena, Denver, CO. This 18,000-seat multi-purpose arena, home to the Avalanche since 1999, is known for its high-altitude environment (over 5,000 feet), which can fatigue visiting teams and boost home scoring.

Puckdrop is set for 9:00 p.m. ET (7:00 p.m. MT local time). The game will be streamed on ESPN+ and available via NHL Network for select markets, with radio coverage on Altitude Sports Radio 92.5 FM (Avalanche) and KSL Sports Zone (Mammoth).

Injury Report

Utah is hit hard by absences in their forward and defensive lines, while Colorado has a relatively clean bill of health, with only minor concerns.

Latest updates as of the morning of game day:

Utah’s loss of Cooley, a key offensive contributor (averaging over a point per game), severely impacts their scoring depth. Colorado’s potential absence of O’Connor thins their bottom-six, but their top lines remain intact.

Player Matchups

This divisional tilt features elite talent on Colorado’s side against Utah’s gritty but depleted roster. Key battles could decide the game’s pace and physicality.

Nathan MacKinnon (COL) vs. Clayton Keller (UTA): MacKinnon, leading the NHL with 30 goals and dominating at 4.03 GF/60, faces Keller (Utah’s top scorer at ~1.2 PPG). Keller’s speed could challenge, but MacKinnon’s playmaking and home-ice edge likely overwhelm Utah’s secondary lines without Cooley.

Cale Makar (COL) vs. Dylan Guenther (UTA): Makar (top-3 in defenseman points) will quarterback Colorado’s power play; Guenther’s emerging scoring (15+ goals) tests Makar’s defensive reads, but Makar’s mobility gives Colorado control.

Mikko Rantanen (COL) vs. Mikhail Sergachev (UTA): Rantanen’s size and finishing (25+ goals) vs. Sergachev’s shutdown defense. With Utah’s D thinned by Välimäki’s absence, Rantanen could exploit mismatches.

Goaltending: Alexandar Georgiev (COL) vs. Karel Vejmelka (UTA): Georgiev (.910 SV%) has been stellar lately; Vejmelka (.896 SV%) faces a barrage from Colorado’s offense (league-high 4.2 GPG).

Colorado’s star power should dictate, but Utah’s physical forwards could force turnovers if they forecheck aggressively.

Recent Team Forms

Colorado is on fire, while Utah has mixed results but ended a skid with a key win.

Utah Mammoth (Last 10 Games): 4-5-1 record, averaging 3.1 GPG while allowing 3.3. They snapped a three-game losing streak with a 4-3 win over Winnipeg on Dec. 21 but lost 1-2 to New Jersey on Dec. 19. Road form is 3-6-1, with inconsistent goaltending.

Colorado Avalanche (Last 10 Games): 9-0-1 record, averaging 4.5 GPG while allowing 2.4. They’ve won eight straight, including a 5-1 thrashing of Minnesota on Dec. 21 and 5-3 over Seattle. Home form is perfect (10-0-0 lately), with a +2.1 margin.

Series History

As a newer franchise, Utah has limited history against Colorado, with the Avalanche holding a slight edge. All-time: Colorado leads 3-2-0 in five meetings. This season, the teams have split two games, with Utah winning the latest 4-3 in OT on Dec. 12. Over the last five: Average goals 6.8, with Colorado 2-0 at home. Games are often high-scoring, with overs hitting in three of five.

Betting Trends

Colorado is 26-9 as favorites; Utah 5-14 as underdogs. Colorado 20-15 ATS overall, 14-2 ATS at home; Utah 16-22 ATS, 8-11 ATS on road. Over has hit in 7 of Colorado’s last 10 (70%) and 6 of Utah’s last 10 (60%). Head-to-head: Over 3-2 in last five. Colorado 8-0 SU in last 8 home games; Utah 4-2 SU in last 6 overall but 2-4 SU on Tuesdays.

Game Odds

Utah Mammoth               6.5

Colorado Avalanche       – 270

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The Nashville Predators (15-16-4) head to St. Paul to face the Minnesota Wild (22-10-5) in a Central Division matchup that’s a tale of two teams heading in different directions. The Predators have struggled with consistency this season but showed signs of life in recent wins, relying on veteran scoring and goaltending to stay in the wild-card hunt. The Wild, meanwhile, are among the Western Conference elite, boasting a balanced attack and one of the league’s top defenses (2.45 GAA, 4th in NHL), though recent losses have highlighted vulnerabilities against high-powered offenses. This is the second meeting of the 2025-26 season; Minnesota won the first 3-2 in overtime on November 4, with Kirill Kaprizov netting the winner. Expect a fast-paced, physical game where Minnesota’s home dominance (11-5-1) clashes with Nashville’s road grit (5-7-2), potentially decided by special teams—Wild’s power play at 25.8% (6th) vs. Predators’ penalty kill at 79.2% (22nd).

Venue Location

Xcel Energy Center (formerly Grand Casino Arena in some listings), St. Paul, MN. This 18,064-seat venue has been a fortress for the Wild, where they’ve gone 11-5-1 this season, outscoring opponents by an average of 3.4-2.5 per game.

Puckdrop is set for 8:00 PM ET. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+, with local feeds on FanDuel Sports Network (Wild) and Bally Sports South (Predators).

Injury Report

Both teams are dealing with key absences, but Minnesota’s list is more extensive, potentially affecting their depth in this back-to-back scenario for Nashville.

Nashville Predators:

Out: Justin Barron (lower body – IR, expected return Dec. 29), Ozzy Wiesblatt (undisclosed – IR, out 8-10 weeks).

Questionable/Probable: No major day-to-day issues reported; the team is relatively healthy otherwise.

Notable Notes: Barron’s injury thins the blue line, forcing more minutes on Roman Josi and Alexandre Carrier. Wiesblatt’s long-term absence impacts forward depth, but veterans like Filip Forsberg have stepped up.

Minnesota Wild:

Out: Zach Bogosian (lower body – IR, expected return Dec. 27), Daemon Hunt (undisclosed – IR), Vinnie Hinostroza (undisclosed – IR, out a month or more), Jonas Brodin (lower body – recently activated but monitoring).

Questionable/Probable: Nico Sturm (recently returned), Mats Zuccarello (activated from IR).

Notable Notes: Bogosian’s absence weakens the blue line physicality, while Hinostroza’s injury limits forward options. Brodin and Zuccarello’s returns boost depth, but the team has been “bit hard by the injury bug” per reports.

Player Matchups

Nashville’s veteran core faces Minnesota’s dynamic forwards, with goaltending likely playing a pivotal role.

Filip Forsberg (NSH) vs. Kirill Kaprizov (MIN): Forsberg (recent point streak, 12 goals) brings physical scoring against Kaprizov (league-leading points contender, 20 goals). Forsberg’s net-front presence tests Minnesota’s interior D, while Kaprizov’s speed exploits Nashville’s 25th-ranked opponent shots allowed (31.0 per game).

Roman Josi (NSH) vs. Matt Boldy (MIN): Josi (defensive anchor, 5 goals, 18 assists) faces Boldy’s scoring surge (14 goals). Josi’s puck-moving could create odd-man rushes, but Boldy’s shot volume challenges Nashville’s blue line.

Justus Annunen (NSH) vs. Filip Gustavsson (MIN): Annunen (recent 16 saves in win) vs. Gustavsson (.920 SV%). Annunen’s form (.915 SV% in December) matches Minnesota’s shot volume, but Gustavsson’s home edge could limit Nashville’s chances.

Other Key Battles: Steven Stamkos (NSH, veteran scorer) vs. Joel Eriksson Ek (MIN, two-way center); Alexandre Carrier (NSH) vs. Marcus Johansson (MIN) for perimeter control.

Minnesota’s depth gives them an edge in sustained pressure.

Recent Team Forms

Nashville is building momentum with back-to-back wins, while Minnesota’s high-flying offense has hit a snag in recent losses.

Nashville Predators (Last 5 Games):

Form: 3-2-0 in last 5, averaging 3.0 GPG while allowing 2.8. Wins over contenders like NYR and TOR show defensive grit (Annunen’s key saves), but losses highlight offensive inconsistencies.

Minnesota Wild (Last 5 Games):

Form: 3-2-0 in last 5, averaging 3.2 GPG while allowing 3.0. The Avalanche blowout exposed defensive lapses, but wins over EDM and OTT showcased Kaprizov’s playmaking.

Series History

Nashville holds a slight all-time edge: 47-39-5-2 (53.2% win rate) in 93 games. Recently, Minnesota has had the upper hand, winning the November 4 meeting 3-2 OT and going 4-1 in the last five head-to-heads. At Xcel Energy Center, the Wild are 26-20-3 vs. Nashville. Series games average 5.2 total goals in the last 10.

Betting Trends

Over is 3-2 in Wild’s last 5; under is 4-1 in Predators’ last 5 road games. Wild 8-2 in last 10 as favorites; Predators 4-1 ATS after a win. Series overs hit in 4 of last 7.

Game Odds

Nashville Predators        6.5

Minnesota Wild               – 185

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The Florida Panthers (19-14-2) travel to Raleigh to face the Carolina Hurricanes (22-10-3) in an Eastern Conference matchup between two teams trending in opposite directions. The Panthers have surged with a 7-2-1 record in their last 10 games, driven by strong offensive output and timely scoring, while the Hurricanes have gone 6-3-1 but are dealing with recent injuries that could impact their depth. This is the second meeting of the season; the Panthers won the first 4-3 in a shootout. Carolina’s elite home defense (11-5-1 record) faces Florida’s road resilience (7-7-0), setting up a potential low-scoring battle where special teams and goaltending will be decisive—Carolina ranks high in goals allowed, while Florida excels in close games (8-0-1 in one-goal decisions).

Venue Location

Lenovo Center (formerly PNC Arena), Raleigh, NC. This 18,700-seat arena has been a stronghold for the Hurricanes, where they’ve posted an 11-5-1 record and allowed just 2.7 goals per game.

Puckdrop is set for 7:00 PM ET. The game will be broadcast regionally on FDSNSO (Hurricanes feed) and SCRIPPS (Panthers feed), with national streaming on ESPN+.

Injury Report

Carolina is relatively healthy with no players listed on the injury report as of December 22, giving them a full lineup advantage. Florida’s report is not explicitly detailed in recent updates, but the team has navigated minor issues throughout the season without major absences impacting recent play.

Florida Panthers:

Out/Questionable: No major injuries reported; the team appears fully healthy heading into this matchup.

Carolina Hurricanes:

Out/Questionable: None listed.

Carolina’s clean bill of health provides depth and consistency, while Florida relies on momentum from their hot streak.

Player Matchups

This game features intriguing battles between high-scoring forwards and defensive anchors, with Carolina’s structure potentially clashing against Florida’s opportunistic attack.

Sebastian Aho (CAR) vs. Sam Reinhart (FLA): Aho (13 goals, 18 assists) leads Carolina’s balanced offense, facing Reinhart’s scoring touch (part of Florida’s top contributors). Aho’s playmaking tests Florida’s middling penalty kill, while Reinhart exploits any Carolina lapses.

Andrei Svechnikov (CAR) vs. Panthers Defense: Svechnikov (recent hot streak with assists) brings physicality and skill, challenging Florida’s blue line in transition.

Carter Verhaeghe/Brad Marchand Line (FLA) vs. Hurricanes Top Pair: Florida’s surging top line (combined high points recently) could pressure Carolina’s defense if they control puck possession.

Other Key Battles: Goaltending duel likely between Pyotr Kochetkov/Frederik Andersen (CAR) and Sergei Bobrovsky (FLA)—both capable of stealing games in low-scoring affairs.

Carolina’s depth and home structure give them an edge in sustained pressure.

Recent Team Forms

Florida is heating up, while Carolina remains consistent but vulnerable to close games.

Florida Panthers (Last 10 Games):

Form: 7-2-1, averaging 3.5 GPG while allowing 3.0. Strong penalty minutes but efficient scoring in wins.

Carolina Hurricanes (Last 10 Games):

Form: 6-3-1, averaging 3.0 GPG while allowing 2.7. Solid defensively but occasional multi-goal concessions.

Series History

Carolina holds a historical advantage, but recent playoff matchups favor Florida (Panthers eliminated Hurricanes in recent conference finals). The Panthers won the season’s first meeting 4-3 in a shootout. Overall, Carolina leads regular-season series, with games often competitive and mid-scoring.

Betting Trends

Hurricanes strong as favorites (21-10 in such games); Panthers effective as underdogs (6 upset wins). Unders common in Carolina home games.

Game Odds

Florida Panthers               5.5

Carolina Hurricanes        – 135

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The New Jersey Devils (20-15-1) visit the New York Islanders (19-13-4) in a Metropolitan Division rivalry matchup that’s critical for both teams’ playoff pushes. The Devils, riding a wave of health with Jack Hughes’ return, have won three of their last five and sit tied for a wild-card spot, showcasing improved defensive structure (2.8 GAA over that stretch). The Islanders, however, are reeling from a 1-4 skid in their last five, compounded by key injuries, but their home-ice physicality (22.4 hits per game, 10th in NHL) could spark a rebound. This is the first meeting of the 2025-26 season; the Islanders won the last encounter 5-3 on April 15, 2025 (prior season). Expect a gritty, mid-range scoring affair, with New Jersey’s speed (top-15 in shots at 30.2 per game) testing the Isles’ stout defense (2.6 GAA at home), potentially hinging on special teams—Devils’ power play at 24.2% (8th) vs. Islanders’ penalty kill at 80.4% (16th).

Venue Location

UBS Arena, Elmont, NY. This 17,255-seat venue has been a mixed bag for the Islanders this season (9-6-2 at home), but they’ve held opponents to 2.6 goals per game there, leveraging crowd energy in rivalry games.

Puckdrop is set for 7:00 PM ET. The game will be broadcast on MSGSN2 and MSGSN (local feeds), with streaming options via ESPN+.

Injury Report

The Devils are nearing full health, boosting their lineup, while the Islanders face goaltending uncertainty and forward absences, tilting the edge to New Jersey.

New Jersey Devils:

Out: Simon Nemec (undisclosed – placed on IR on Dec. 16).

Questionable/Probable: No major issues; Jack Hughes returned from an 18-game finger injury on Dec. 21, Brett Pesce activated off LTIR recently.

Notable Notes: Hughes’ return (team-leading points pre-injury) revitalizes the offense; the team is “finally healthy” per reports, with no new setbacks from their Dec. 21 win.

New York Islanders:

Out: Ilya Sorokin (nagging undisclosed issue – out until after holiday break; Marcus Hogberg recalled on emergency conditions), Bo Horvat (undisclosed – practiced non-contact on Dec. 22, status day-to-day but likely out).

Questionable/Probable: No others listed; the team is “short-handed” per previews.

Notable Notes: Sorokin’s absence (small nagging issue) forces Hogberg or Semyon Varlamov into net; Horvat’s potential return (missed four games) is key for center depth, but non-contact practice suggests caution.

Player Matchups

With Hughes back for the Devils and the Islanders potentially without Horvat and Sorokin, New Jersey’s speed could overwhelm New York’s depleted lineup. Key battles focus on star centers and goaltending.

Jack Hughes (NJD) vs. Mathew Barzal (NYI): The marquee matchup pits Hughes (recent return, explosive speed with 15 points pre-injury) against Barzal (18 goals, 25 assists, top-15 scorer). Hughes’ playmaking exploits the Isles’ 20th-ranked opponent shots allowed (30.4 per game), while Barzal’s agility tests New Jersey’s perimeter defense.

Dougie Hamilton (NJD) vs. Noah Dobson (NYI): Defensemen clash with Hamilton (5 goals, 20 assists) facing Dobson (4 goals, 22 assists). Hamilton’s offensive rushes challenge Ottawa’s transition, but Dobson’s blocking (80 blocks) could contain.

Jesper Bratt (NJD) vs. Brock Nelson (NYI): Wingers duel with Bratt (16 goals) vs. Nelson (15 goals). Bratt’s recent multi-point games exploit the Isles’ injury-hit depth, while Nelson’s net-front presence tests New Jersey’s interior D.

Other Key Battles: Timo Meier (NJD, power forward) vs. Anders Lee (NYI, physical captain); Jacob Markstrom (NJD, .915 SV%) vs. Semyon Varlamov (NYI, if starting due to Sorokin out)—Markstrom’s size vs. Varlamov’s experience.

Recent Team Forms

Both teams have mixed results, but the Devils’ health boost contrasts with the Islanders’ slump.

New Jersey Devils (Last 5 Games):

Form: 3-2-0 in last 5, averaging 3.0 GPG while allowing 2.6. Hughes’ return sparked a win over Utah, with strong goaltending from Markstrom (28 saves).

New York Islanders (Last 5 Games):

Form: 1-4-0 in last 5, averaging 2.6 GPG while allowing 3.8. The Buffalo shootout loss extended their skid, with defensive breakdowns despite Varlamov’s efforts.

Series History

The Islanders hold a historical edge: 133-99-22-17 all-time vs. the Devils (57.3% win rate for NYI). Recently, New Jersey is 4-4-2 in the last 10 meetings, with the Islanders winning the most recent 5-3 on April 15, 2025. At UBS Arena, the Isles are 4-2 vs. New Jersey since 2021. Games average 5.8 total goals in the last 10.

Betting Trends

Over is 3-2 in Devils’ last 5; under is 4-1 in Islanders’ last 5 home games. Devils 8-10-0 without Hughes but 3-2 since return; Islanders 1-2-1 without Horvat. Devils 4-1 ATS in last 5 as favorites; Islanders 2-3 ATS in last 5 home games.

Game Odds

New Jersey Devils            – 130

New York Islanders         5.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The Buffalo Sabres (17-14-4) face the Ottawa Senators (18-13-4) in an Atlantic Division clash at Canadian Tire Centre, where both teams look to build momentum heading into the holiday break. Buffalo has won six straight, climbing back into playoff contention with strong goaltending and timely scoring, while Ottawa rides a four-game winning streak fueled by offensive firepower and solid home play. This marks the first meeting of the 2025-26 season between these rivals; their last encounter on April 1, 2025 (prior season) saw Ottawa win 5-2. Expect a high-energy, up-tempo game, as Ottawa’s potent attack (3.4 GPG, 8th in NHL) tests Buffalo’s improving defense (2.8 GAA, 16th), potentially turning on special teams—Ottawa’s power play ranks 20th (18.4%), while Buffalo’s penalty kill sits at 82.0% (11th).

Venue Location

Canadian Tire Centre, Ottawa, ON. This 18,652-seat arena has been a haven for the Senators this season, where they’ve gone 10-5-2 at home, outscoring opponents by an average of 3.6-2.8 per game.

Puckdrop is set for 7:00 PM ET. The game will be broadcast on TSN/RDS (Canadiens feed) and Sportsnet (Senators feed), with streaming available via ESPN+ and NHL.tv.

Injury Report

Both teams are dealing with significant absences, but Buffalo’s list is longer, potentially impacting their depth against Ottawa’s balanced lineup. Reports as of December 22 evening.

Buffalo Sabres:

Out: Jason Zucker (undisclosed – IR, Dec 27 return), Colten Ellis (G – IR, Dec 23), Justin Danforth (undisclosed – IR), Jiri Kulich (concussion – IR, missed last four games), Sam Lafferty (groin – out), Jordan Greenway (lower body – out).

Questionable/Probable: Tyson Kozak (C – day-to-day, Dec 23).

Notable Notes: Kulich’s concussion stems from a recent hit; the team relies on Zach Benson and Josh Norris for secondary scoring. Ellis’ absence means Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen starts, with Devon Levi as backup.

Ottawa Senators:

Out: Conor Timmins (D – IR, Feb 5 return).

Questionable/Probable: None major reported; Linus Ullmark is healthy after recent discussions.

Notable Notes: Timmins’ long-term absence thins the blue line, but Jake Sanderson and others step up. The core remains intact, with no new injuries from their recent win.

Player Matchups

Buffalo’s hot streak relies on star power, but Ottawa’s depth could create mismatches. Key battles highlight offensive stars and defensive assignments.

Tage Thompson (BUF) vs. Tim Stutzle (OTT): Thompson (20 goals, top-10 scorer) brings power forward presence (5 power-play goals) against Stutzle (15 goals, 25 assists), Ottawa’s dynamic center. Stutzle’s speed exploits Buffalo’s 28th-ranked opponent shots allowed (31.2 per game), while Thompson’s size tests Ottawa’s interior defense.

Rasmus Dahlin (BUF) vs. Jake Sanderson (OTT): Defensemen duel with Dahlin (6 goals, 22 assists) facing Sanderson (4 goals, 18 assists). Dahlin’s offensive rushes (top-5 among D in points) challenge Ottawa’s transition, but Sanderson’s blocking (85 blocks) could neutralize.

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (BUF) vs. Linus Ullmark (OTT): Luukkonen (12 wins, .915 SV%, 2.45 GAA) faces Ullmark (14 wins, .920 SV%, 2.35 GAA). Luukkonen’s recent form (.930 SV% in wins) matches Ottawa’s 30.4 shots per game (10th), but Ullmark’s home edge could stifle Buffalo’s 29.2 shots (15th).

Other Key Battles: Zach Benson (BUF, recent game-winner) vs. David Perron (OTT, multi-goal threat); Josh Norris (BUF, 2 points vs. NJD) vs. Brady Tkachuk (OTT, physical leader with 14 goals).

Recent Team Forms

Buffalo enters scorching hot, while Ottawa’s streak includes impressive wins over contenders.

Buffalo Sabres (Last 5 Games):

Form: 5-0-0 in last 5, averaging 3.4 GPG while allowing 2.2. The Devils win extended their streak to six, with Luukkonen (24 saves) and Benson’s game-winner highlighting defensive solidity.

Ottawa Senators (Last 5 Games):

Form: 4-0-1 in last 5, averaging 4.0 GPG while allowing 2.6. The Bruins rout featured Fabian Zetterlund’s two goals and Tim Stutzle’s three points, extending a four-win streak.

Series History

Ottawa leads the all-time series 79-71-10 in regular-season games (52.7% win rate for Senators). At Canadian Tire Centre, Ottawa is 42-35-5 vs. Buffalo. Recently, the Senators are 2-7-1 in the last 10 meetings, with Buffalo winning six straight from 2010-2011 but Ottawa taking the April 1, 2025 game 5-2. Games average 5.6 total goals in the last 10.

Betting Trends

Ottawa is 17-18 ATS overall but 9-8 ATS at home; Buffalo is 20-15 ATS and 10-8 ATS on the road. Over is 4-1 in Ottawa’s last 5 home games; under is 3-2 in Buffalo’s last 5 road tilts.

Sabres 6-1 in last 7 as road favorites of -151 to -200; over 10-4-1 in Sabres’ last 15 as favorites. Senators 5-2-2 in Atlantic games.

Game Odds

Buffalo Sabres                   6.5

Ottawa Senators              – 155

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The Montreal Canadiens (19-12-5) visit the Boston Bruins (20-16-1) in an Original Six rivalry matchup that’s pivotal for both teams’ playoff hopes in the Eastern Conference. Montreal, sitting sixth in the Atlantic Division, has been inconsistent but showed resilience in a recent shootout loss, while Boston, third in the Atlantic, aims to snap a three-game skid (0-2-1) before the holiday break. This is the first meeting of the 2025-26 season between these historic foes; their last encounter on April 15, 2025 (prior season) saw Boston win 5-3. Expect a gritty, physical game with Boston’s home-ice physicality (22.8 hits per game, 8th in NHL) clashing against Montreal’s speed and transition play, potentially decided by goaltending—Boston’s Jeremy Swayman (.918 SV%) vs. Montreal’s Samuel Montembeault (.910 SV%). Special teams could be key, with Boston’s power play at 26.0% (5th) exploiting Montreal’s 78.4% penalty kill (24th).

Venue Location

TD Garden, Boston, MA. This 17,850-seat arena has been a tough venue for visitors this season, with Boston posting a 10-8-0 home record and holding opponents to 2.6 goals per game at home.

Puckdrop is set for 7:00 PM ET. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ (national), MSG (Rangers alternate, but for this Bruins home), NESN (Bruins feed), and TSN/RDS (Canadiens feed), with streaming via ESPN+ and NHL.tv.

Injury Report

Injuries are plaguing both teams, with Montreal’s forward depth hit hard and Boston managing minor absences. Reports as of December 22 evening; final statuses may change.

Montreal Canadiens:

Out: Jake Evans (undisclosed – placed on IR after a hit in Dec. 21 game vs. Pittsburgh; expected out at least a week), Kaiden Guhle (undisclosed – LTIR as of Dec. 20), Kirby Dach (undisclosed – LTIR as of Dec. 20), Alex Newhook (broken ankle – out 4 months since Nov. surgery).

Questionable/Probable: Phillip Danault (undisclosed – day-to-day as of Dec. 22).

Notable Notes: Evans’ injury raises concussion concerns after a blindsided hit; the team recalled Sammy Blais from AHL Laval for depth. Guhle and Dach’s LTIR placements open cap space but weaken the blue line and center depth.

Boston Bruins:

Out: Henri Jokiharju (undisclosed – IR since Nov. 29), Matej Blumel (undisclosed – IR), Jonathan Aspirot (undisclosed – IR).

Questionable/Probable: Viktor Arvidsson (undisclosed – day-to-day), Michael Callahan (lower body – IR as of Dec. 4, but probable return soon).

Notable Notes: Jokiharju’s absence thins the blue line, but Charlie McAvoy returned from facial surgery on Dec. 11. Arvidsson’s status is game-time; if out, expect more from Pavel Zacha on the wing.

Player Matchups

Montreal’s injuries shift focus to their young core against Boston’s veteran grit. The Bruins’ physical style (top-10 in blocked shots at 16.2 per game) could neutralize the Canadiens’ speed, but Montreal’s transition game might exploit Boston’s 29.4 shots allowed (18th).

Cole Caufield (MTL) vs. Brad Marchand (BOS): Caufield (18 goals, top-15 scorer) brings pure sniping (6 power-play goals) against Marchand (12 goals, 20 assists), Boston’s agitator and playmaker. Marchand’s defensive instincts (1.2 takeaways per game) could shadow Caufield, but the Canadien’s quick release tests Boston’s 80.2% PK (18th).

Nick Suzuki (MTL) vs. Elias Lindholm (BOS): Centers duel with Suzuki (14 goals, 25 assists) facing Lindholm (10 goals, 18 assists). Suzuki’s faceoff edge (53.2%) challenges Boston’s 49.8% (15th), while Lindholm’s two-way play exploits Montreal’s injury-thinned depth.

Samuel Montembeault (MTL) vs. Jeremy Swayman (BOS): Montembeault (12 wins, .910 SV%, 2.68 GAA) faces Swayman (14 wins, .918 SV%, 2.45 GAA). Swayman’s home dominance (.925 SV%) could stifle Montreal’s 28.6 shots per game (20th), but Montembeault’s recent form (.915 SV% in December) keeps it competitive.

Other Key Battles: Juraj Slafkovsky (MTL, 10 goals) vs. Charlie McAvoy (BOS, 4 goals, 15 assists)—Slafkovsky’s size vs. McAvoy’s blocking (85 blocks). David Pastrnak (BOS, 20 goals) vs. Mike Matheson (MTL)—Pastrnak’s shot volume (120 shots) vs. Matheson’s mobility.

Recent Team Forms

Both teams are coming off losses, with Boston’s skid raising concerns and Montreal showing fight in close games.

Montreal Canadiens (Last 5 Games):

Form: 2-2-1 in last 5, averaging 2.8 GPG while allowing 3.6. The Penguins shootout loss highlighted defensive resilience (Montembeault 32 saves), but earlier blowouts exposed goaltending inconsistencies.

Boston Bruins (Last 5 Games):

Form: 1-3-1 in last 5, averaging 2.2 GPG while allowing 4.0. The Senators rout exposed defensive collapses (outshot 35-28), but the Blues win showed grit with Swayman (28 saves).

Series History

Montreal holds a commanding all-time edge: 354-297-103-11 in regular-season games (54.4% win rate for Canadiens), with a 7-5 playoff series lead. At TD Garden (and predecessors), Boston is 177-142-56-7 vs. Montreal. Recently, the Bruins have turned the tide, going 20-8-5 in the last 33 meetings since 2015, including a 5-3 win on April 15, 2025. Games average 5.4 total goals in the last 10, with Boston 7-3 straight up.

Betting Trends

Boston is 18-19 ATS overall but 9-9 ATS at home; Montreal is 20-16 ATS and 10-9 ATS on the road. Over is 3-2 in Boston’s last 5 home games; under is 4-1 in Montreal’s last 5 road tilts. Bruins 1-4 ATS in last 5; Canadiens 4-1 ATS after a loss. Series unders hit in 6 of last 10.

Game Odds

Montreal Canadiens       6.5

Boston Bruins                    – 120

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The New York Rangers (18-16-4) travel to Washington to face the Capitals (19-12-5) in a Metropolitan Division rivalry game that’s crucial for both teams’ playoff positioning. The Rangers are clinging to a wild-card spot amid inconsistent play, having dropped four of their last seven, while the Capitals are surging with a 10-3-2 record since November but have stumbled lately (1-3-1 in last five). This marks the second meeting of the 2025-26 season; Washington won the first 3-2 in a shootout on October 29, with Alex Ovechkin scoring twice. Expect a physical, low-scoring tilt, as both teams rank in the top 15 for goals against (Rangers 2.68 GAA, 14th; Capitals 2.56 GAA, 8th), but Washington’s power play (15.2%, 25th) could exploit New York’s 81.8% penalty kill (12th).

Venue Location

Capital One Arena, Washington, DC. This 20,356-seat venue has been a strong home for the Capitals this season (10-6-3), where they’ve allowed just 2.5 goals per game, bolstered by raucous crowds during their recent hot streak.

Puckdrop is set for 7:00 PM ET. The game will air on ESPN+ and Monumental Sports Network (Capitals feed), with streaming available via ESPN+ and NHL.tv.

Injury Report

Injuries are impacting both squads, with the Rangers hit harder in key areas, potentially forcing lineup adjustments. Reports as of December 22 evening.

New York Rangers:

Out: J.T. Miller (upper body – placed on IR, expected out until at least January 12; injured on a hit to the shoulder), Matt Rempe (undisclosed – out for December 23 game), Gabe Perreault (undisclosed – out for December 23 game), Adam Edstrom (lower body – on LTIR, expected out until at least December 27).

Questionable/Probable: No major additions; the team recalled Brett Berard from AHL Hartford to fill gaps.

Notable Notes: Miller’s absence (team-leading points) is a blow to leadership and secondary scoring, shifting more burden to Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad. Edstrom’s LTIR status opens cap space but thins forward depth.

Washington Capitals:

Out: Ryan Leonard (shoulder/upper body – day-to-day, progressing but missed recent games; injured in a heavy hit).

Questionable/Probable: No others major; the team is monitoring Leonard’s recovery closely.

Notable Notes: Leonard’s potential absence (rookie with impact potential) affects forward depth, but the Capitals’ core remains intact. If out, expect more from Dylan Strome and Pierre-Luc Dubois in secondary roles.

Player Matchups

Without Miller and potentially Leonard, the game features star wingers and goaltending battles. Washington’s home energy could amplify their physicality (top-10 in hits at 22.4 per game), testing New York’s speed (28.2 shots allowed, 10th).

Artemi Panarin (NYR) vs. John Carlson (WSH): Panarin (20 goals, 28 assists, top-10 scorer) brings elite playmaking against Carlson (5 goals, 20 assists), Washington’s puck-moving defenseman. Carlson’s defensive reads (82 blocked shots) could limit Panarin’s zone entries, but the Ranger’s speed (6 power-play goals) exploits Washington’s 76.6% PK (22nd).

Mika Zibanejad (NYR) vs. Dylan Strome (WSH): Centers clash with Zibanejad (15 goals, 25 assists) facing Strome (12 goals, 22 assists). Zibanejad’s faceoff prowess (52.4%) tests Washington’s middling 48.2% (20th), while Strome’s recent multi-point games (6 in last 10) could capitalize on New York’s injury-thinned depth.

Igor Shesterkin (NYR) vs. Logan Thompson (WSH): Shesterkin (14 wins, .915 SV%, 2.45 GAA) is Vezina-worthy, facing Thompson (12 wins, .912 SV%, 2.50 GAA) or Charlie Lindgren. Shesterkin’s road excellence (.920 SV%) matches Washington’s 29.2 shots per game (12th), but Thompson’s hot streak (4-1-1 in December) could keep it close.

Other Key Battles: Alex Ovechkin (WSH, 18 goals) vs. Adam Fox (NYR, 4 goals, 23 assists)—Ovechkin’s shot volume (112 shots, top-10) vs. Fox’s blocking (78 blocks). Vincent Trocheck (NYR) steps up without Miller against Tom Wilson (WSH) for physicality.

Recent Team Forms

The Capitals have cooled after a hot streak, while the Rangers show signs of rebounding.

New York Rangers (Last 5 Games):

Form: 3-2-0 in last 5, averaging 2.8 GPG while allowing 3.4. Wins featured strong goaltending (Shesterkin .930 SV% in victories), but losses exposed defensive issues (outshot 32-25 vs. Anaheim).

Washington Capitals (Last 5 Games):

Form: 1-3-1 in last 5, averaging 2.0 GPG while allowing 3.6. Defensive lapses in losses (outscored 13-4 in three defeats), but the Wild win showed balanced attack (Strome 2 assists).

Series History

Washington holds a slight all-time edge: 149-136-18-4 in regular-season games (51.5% win rate for Capitals), including a 4-1 record in the last five meetings. At Capital One Arena, the Capitals are 79-58-18-2 vs. the Rangers. Recently, Washington has dominated, winning the October 29 game 3-2 in a shootout and going 6-4 in the last 10 overall. Games average 5.8 total goals in the last 10, with the Rangers 3-7 straight up.

Betting Trends

Washington is 18-18 ATS overall but 9-10 ATS at home; New York is 17-21 ATS and 8-11 ATS on the road.

Over is 3-2 in Washington’s last 5 home games; under is 4-1 in New York’s last 5 road tilts. Capitals 1-4 ATS in last 5; Rangers 4-1 ATS after a loss. Series unders hit in 6 of last 10.

Game Odds

New York Rangers                           5.5

Washington Capitals                      – 162

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The Dallas Stars (25-7-5) face the Detroit Red Wings (21-13-3) in an interconference clash at Little Caesars Arena, where two of the league’s hottest December teams collide. Dallas enters on a five-game winning streak, boasting the NHL’s second-best record and a stingy defense allowing just 2.54 goals per game (3rd in league). Detroit has won seven of its last nine, climbing the Atlantic Division standings with balanced scoring (3.24 GPG, 12th) and timely goaltending. This marks the first meeting of the 2025-26 season between these Original Six rivals (Detroit founded 1926, Dallas as Minnesota North Stars in 1967). The Stars’ road prowess (13-4-3 away) could test Detroit’s home-ice edge (11-6-2), but the Red Wings’ recent surge, including a home-and-home sweep of Washington, suggests a tight, low-scoring affair potentially decided by special teams—Dallas ranks 5th on the power play (25.6%), while Detroit’s penalty kill sits at 82.4% (10th).

Venue Location

Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI. This 19,515-seat venue has been a fortress for the Red Wings lately, with an 11-6-2 home record and fans fueling their recent 5-2-0 December home stretch.

Puckdrop is set for

6:30 PM ET. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+, Hulu, and local feeds (Bally Sports Southwest for Stars, Bally Sports Detroit for Red Wings), with radio on 96.7 The Ticket (Detroit) and 1310 The Ticket (Dallas).

Injury Report

Both teams are relatively healthy entering the matchup, but Dallas is without a key forward for the season, while Detroit misses a veteran scorer. Reports as of December 22 evening; monitor for updates.

Dallas Stars:

Out: Tyler Seguin (ACL surgery – out for remainder of regular season, underwent procedure on Dec. 16).

Questionable/Probable: No major issues reported; Roope Hintz (previous slash injury in May 2025) is fully healthy and playing.

Notable Notes: Seguin’s absence (10 goals, 15 assists in 25 games) depletes secondary scoring, forcing more reliance on the top line. The Stars’ depth has mitigated this, with Wyatt Johnston stepping up (14 goals).

Detroit Red Wings:

Out: Patrick Kane (upper body – missing fifth straight game, sidelined since Dec. 13; expected return unclear but not long-term).

Questionable/Probable: No others listed; Mason Appleton (lower body) recently activated off IR and played Dec. 21.

Notable Notes: Kane’s injury (9 goals, 18 assists in 30 games) hurts wing depth, leading to callups like John Leonard (2 goals in 4 games). Simon Edvinsson (previous illness) is back, bolstering the blue line.

Player Matchups

Without Seguin and Kane, the focus shifts to top-line battles and goaltending duels. Dallas’ balanced attack (top-5 in goals at 3.78 GPG) faces Detroit’s opportunistic offense, but the Stars’ elite defense (2.54 GAA) could stifle the Wings’ speed.

Jason Robertson (DAL) vs. Moritz Seider (DET): Robertson (23 goals, league’s 4th) brings elite sniping (7 power-play goals) against Seider (5 goals, 18 assists), Detroit’s shutdown defenseman. Seider’s physicality (82 hits) could disrupt Robertson’s rhythm, but Dallas’ winger thrives in high-pressure spots (recent hat trick vs. Anaheim).

Roope Hintz (DAL) vs. Dylan Larkin (DET): Speed vs. speed in the center matchup. Hintz (18 goals, 22 assists) anchors Dallas’ top line with playmaking, facing Larkin (15 goals, 20 assists), Detroit’s captain and faceoff specialist (54.2% wins). Larkin’s two-way play tests Hintz’s defensive lapses.

Jake Oettinger (DAL) vs. Cam Talbot (DET): Oettinger (16 wins, .922 SV%, 2.28 GAA) is Vezina-caliber, facing Talbot (12 wins, .910 SV%, 2.68 GAA) or Alex Lyon if rotated. Oettinger’s road dominance (.930 SV%) could exploit Detroit’s 3.12 GPG allowed at home.

Other Key Battles: Wyatt Johnston (DAL, 14 goals) vs. Lucas Raymond (DET, 12 goals)—youthful scoring threats. Esa Lindell (DAL) pairs against Alex DeBrincat (DET, 14 goals) to limit perimeter shots.

Recent Team Forms

Both squads are riding hot streaks, with Dallas winning five straight and Detroit victorious in seven of nine.

Dallas Stars (Last 5 Games):

Form: 5-0-0 in last 5, averaging 5.0 GPG while allowing 2.0. Offensive explosions (8 goals vs. Anaheim) and shutout streaks highlight their surge, with Oettinger posting a .950 SV% in December.

Detroit Red Wings (Last 5 Games):

Form: 4-1-0 in last 5, averaging 3.6 GPG while allowing 2.4. Back-to-back wins over Washington showcased defense (held Caps to 2.0 GPG average), with Seider’s OT heroics and Talbot’s .920 SV% fueling the run.

Series History

Detroit holds a slight all-time edge: 133-126-34-4 in regular-season games (51.3% win rate for Red Wings), including playoffs. At Little Caesars Arena (and predecessors), the Wings are 79-58-18-2 vs. Dallas. Recently, Detroit has won four of the last five meetings, including a 6-4 victory on April 14, 2025, and 4-1 on January 19, 2025 (prior season). Games average 5.8 total goals in the last 10, with Dallas 3-7 straight up in that span.

Betting Trends

Dallas is 22-15 ATS overall and 14-9 ATS on the road. Detroit is 19-18 ATS and 10-9 ATS at home. Over is 4-1 in Detroit’s last 5 home games and 3-2 in series matchups. Under is 3-2 in Dallas’ last 5 road tilts.

Stars 8-2 ATS in last 10 vs. Atlantic teams; Red Wings 6-4 ATS after a win. Series overs hit in 4 of last 7.

Game Odds

Dallas Stars                         – 130

Detroit Red Wings           6.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025

The Pittsburgh Penguins (15-11-9) visit the Toronto Maple Leafs (15-15-5) in a Metropolitan-Atlantic crossover that’s shaping up as a potential defensive battle between two inconsistent Eastern Conference teams. Pittsburgh snapped an eight-game winless streak (0-4-4) with a dramatic 4-3 shootout win over Montreal on December 21, where Sidney Crosby broke Mario Lemieux’s franchise points record. Toronto, meanwhile, is reeling from a 1-4-1 skid in their last six, including a 5-1 loss to Dallas on December 21, amid goaltending woes and injuries. This marks the second meeting of the 2025-26 season; the Leafs won the first 5-2 on November 29 in Pittsburgh, dominating the third period. With both teams struggling for consistency—Pittsburgh’s power play at 18.2% (22nd in NHL) and Toronto’s penalty kill at 78.4% (24th)—expect a low-scoring affair, potentially decided by special teams or star power like Crosby vs. Auston Matthews.

Venue Location

Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, ON. This 19,800-seat venue has been a mixed bag for the Leafs this season, with a 9-7 home record, but they’ve allowed 3.2 goals per game at home (18th in NHL).

Puckdrop is set for 4:00 PM ET. The game will be broadcast on Sportsnet (Leafs feed), AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh (Penguins feed), and NHL Network, with streaming options via ESPN+ and NHL.tv.

Injury Report

Both teams are dealing with key absences, particularly in net and on defense, which could lead to backup goalies starting and altered lineups. Reports as of December 22 evening.

Pittsburgh Penguins:

Out: Evgeni Malkin (upper body – IR, week-to-week, expected back around December 30), Blake Lizotte (upper body – IR, week-to-week), Caleb Jones (lower body – IR, sidelined since December 20).

Questionable/Probable: Peyton Kettles (D – out, details unspecified), Tanner Howe (LW – status unclear but listed on injury reports).

Notable Notes: Malkin’s absence (15 goals, 30 assists in 32 games) depletes Pittsburgh’s secondary scoring, forcing more reliance on Crosby and the top line. Lizotte’s energy is missed on the penalty kill. Recent returns like Rickard Rakell from earlier injuries provide some depth, but the blue line is thin without Jones.

Toronto Maple Leafs:

Out: Anthony Stolarz (upper body – IR, expected back January 3), Marshall Rifai (wrist – LTIR, expected back December 23 but likely out), Dakota Mermis (undisclosed – IR, out about a month since December 10), Christopher Tanev (lower body – missed December 20, status day-to-day).

Questionable: Oliver Ekman-Larsson (upper body – progressing but sidelined recently).

Notable Notes: Stolarz’s injury forces Dennis Hildeby or Joseph Woll into the starter’s role; Hildeby struggled in the December 21 loss (17 saves on 22 shots). Tanev’s potential absence weakens Toronto’s shutdown defense (78 blocked shots this season). Ekman-Larsson’s setback limits blue-line offense.

Player Matchups

Without Malkin and potentially Stolarz/Tanev, the focus shifts to superstar centers and defensive assignments. Toronto’s home ice could help neutralize Pittsburgh’s speed, but the Penguins’ veteran savvy might exploit the Leafs’ recent defensive lapses (allowing 4.0 GPG in last five).

Sidney Crosby (PIT) vs. Auston Matthews (TOR): The premier battle pits Crosby (14 goals, 32 assists, fresh off franchise points record) against Matthews (22 goals, league-leading). Crosby’s playmaking exploits Toronto’s 22nd-ranked penalty kill, while Matthews’ sniping (5 power-play goals) tests Pittsburgh’s 19th-ranked PK. Expect physicality, as both lead their teams in ice time (Crosby 20:45, Matthews 21:12).

Rickard Rakell (PIT) vs. Morgan Rielly (TOR): Rakell (12 goals) returns from injury to provide secondary scoring, facing Rielly (4 goals, 18 assists) on the blue line. Rielly’s puck-moving could create odd-man rushes, but Rakell’s net-front presence challenges Toronto’s goalies.

Bryan Rust (PIT) vs. William Nylander (TOR): Rust (11 goals) brings grit to Pittsburgh’s wings, matching up against Nylander (16 goals, 24 points). Nylander’s speed (top-10 in shots at 112) exploits the Penguins’ 20th-ranked opponent shots allowed (30.4 per game).

Other Key Battles: Erik Karlsson (PIT, 20 assists) vs. Mitch Marner (TOR, 28 assists)—offensive defenseman vs. playmaker. If Woll starts for Toronto, he faces Tristan Jarry (PIT, .902 SV%), who shone in the December 21 win (28 saves).

Recent Team Forms

Pittsburgh’s win snapped a skid, while Toronto’s slump continues.

Pittsburgh Penguins (Last 5 Games):

Form: 1-3-1 in last 5, averaging 2.0 GPG while allowing 3.6. The Canadiens win featured Crosby’s milestone and strong goaltending from Arturs Silovs (shootout hero), but prior games showed offensive droughts (under 2 goals in three).

Toronto Maple Leafs (Last 5 Games):

Form: 1-3-1 in last 5, averaging 2.4 GPG while allowing 3.6. Defensive breakdowns doomed them against Dallas (outshot 22-18 but collapsed late), extending a 1-4-1 stretch with poor goaltending (.875 SV% in losses).

Series History

Toronto holds a slight all-time edge: 100-96-17-1 in regular-season games (51.0% win rate for Leafs). At Scotiabank Arena (and predecessors), the Leafs are 55-41-11 vs. Pittsburgh. Recently, Toronto has dominated, going 4-1 in the last five meetings, including the 5-2 win on November 29, 2025. The Penguins are 2-3 in their last five visits to Toronto, with games averaging 5.8 total goals.

Betting Trends

Toronto is 12-23 ATS overall but 7-11 ATS at home. Pittsburgh is 16-19 ATS and 9-9 ATS on the road. Over is 4-1 in Leafs’ last 5 home games and 3-2 in series matchups. Under is 4-1 in Penguins’ last 5 road tilts.

Leafs 4-1 ATS after a loss; Penguins 2-3 ATS vs. Atlantic teams. Series unders hit in 6 of last 10.

Game Odds

Pittsburgh Penguins       6.5

Toronto Maple Leafs      – 125

NHL Game Preview: Pittsburgh Penguins (15-11-9) vs. Toronto Maple Leafs (15-15-5)Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, December 22, 2025