As the NHL season heats up, fans are in for a treat with three electrifying matchups on January 21. These games promise not just high-stakes action but also the kind of nail-biting drama that keeps us on the edge of our seats.
Detroit Red Wings vs. Toronto Maple Leafs
First on the docket, we have the perennial rivalry between the Detroit Red Wings and the home favorites, the Toronto Maple Leafs. With the GameSim model giving the Maple Leafs a slight edge with a predicted 3.4 to 3.1 victory, this game is sure to be a close battle. The Leafs have a 52% chance of winning according to 240 simulations, but don't count the Red Wings out just yet.
The spotlight will undoubtedly be on Auston Matthews, expected to lead Toronto with 0.4 goals and 0.7 assists. If Matthews can get rolling early, the Leafs might just run away with it. Meanwhile, Morgan Rielly and Matthew Knies are also projected to have significant impacts. On the other side, Lucas Raymond of the Red Wings will be crucial, looking to notch 0.3 goals and 0.5 assists to keep Detroit in the game. Check out the full game prediction here.
Anaheim Ducks vs. Colorado Avalanche
Next, the Anaheim Ducks take on the high-flying Colorado Avalanche. Colorado is favored with a 3.3 to 2.4 predicted win, boasting a 56% win probability. The Avalanche's Nathan MacKinnon is expected to shine with 0.6 goals and 1.1 assists, making him the player to watch as he looks to drive his team to victory.
Adding to the Avalanche's offensive arsenal, Cale Makar is projected to contribute significantly with 0.5 goals and 0.6 assists. The Ducks, however, will look to Mikael Granlund to disrupt Colorado's plans; his expected 0.4 goals and 0.5 assists could prove pivotal. Dive deeper into the matchup here.
Philadelphia Flyers vs. Utah Mammoth
Lastly, the Philadelphia Flyers are set to clash with the Utah Mammoth. Utah, playing on home ice, is favored to win 3.4 to 2.4, with a 57% chance of coming out on top. Clayton Keller is expected to be in top form, projected to score 0.3 goals and assist on 0.8 others. His play could be the key to Utah's success.
Meanwhile, the Flyers will depend on Matvei Michkov, who is projected to contribute 0.3 goals and 0.4 assists. This game could hinge on whether Michkov can outmaneuver the Mammoth's defense. Explore the full prediction details here.
For those looking to delve deeper into these matchups and more, detailed projected player stats are available exclusively to GameSim+ subscribers. Learn more about subscribing here to gain an edge on every game day.
