NHL Thursday best bets: Can Wild, Bruins force Game 7?

Wednesday night was a good one for our best bets, as the Calgary Flames and Florida Panthers both erased deficits en route to multi-goal victories on home ice.

We'll look to have another successful night with a pair of games Thursday.

The Minnesota Wild find themselves on the brink of elimination following a disastrous third period. I'm going right back to them in this spot.

Yes, the Wild have dropped three of five and are now on the road. That's hardly ideal. But I can't ignore the way they've dictated play at five-on-five.

Minnesota has controlled a hair under 58% of the expected goal share in that game state. Only the Colorado Avalanche, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Flames grade out better. The Avalanche, as you all know, swept their first-round opponent, while the Flames and Penguins find themselves in the driver's seat.

The Wild are generating their share of opportunities, and no team has allowed fewer high-danger chances at full strength. Sooner or later, you have to think that'll reflect on the scoreboard.

I'm still not sold on the St. Louis Blues' defense without Torey Krug, nor am I sold that Jordan Binnington, who posted a .891 save percentage over 19 games in 2022, will continue playing mistake-free hockey.

If the Wild can stay out of the box against this lethal Blues power play, they should be able to bring the series home for Game 7.

Bet: Wild (-110)

This has been a series of home-ice advantage, with the hosts winning all five meetings thus far. I expect that trend to continue Thursday night.

The Boston Bruins have slapped the Carolina Hurricanes around through two games in Boston. They've controlled nearly 63% of the expected goal share across all game states while outscoring the Hurricanes 9-4.

Antti Raanta wasn't available for one of those games, but I'm not sure it would've mattered considering how well Boston performed.

I don't think the Bruins will be impacted by playing with their backs against the wall. They've been in this situation many times before - they can handle the pressure.

The likely return of Hampus Lindholm should be a huge help as well. He's appeared in only two of the five games thus far, helping the Bruins control a defense-leading 66% of the expected goal share.

Lindholm can chew up minutes in bulk while providing strong defensive play and a stabilizing presence. With last change, Bruce Cassidy will be able to maximize Lindholm's abilities and get him out there to help neutralize Carolina's best players.

It might not be easy, but expect the Bruins to ride their experienced stars and level the series.

Bet: Bruins (-125)

Todd Cordell is a sports betting writer at theScore. Be sure to follow him on Twitter @ToddCordell.

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