Last Updated on January 22, 2026 10:57 am by Anthony Rome
Will the Blackhawks keep the game tight tonight in Carolina when they visit the Hurricanes at 7:00 p.m. ET. Will the Senators cash as a moneyline favorite in Nashville? Can the Red Wings and Wild generate enough scoring so bettors can cash the over in Minnesota? Our Thursday NHL Best Bets Jan. 22 column offers selections for all three of these matchups.
NHL Best Bet: Senators -114 (at Predators)
Ottawa enters this game with more offensive upside and a slightly better recent form than Nashville. Tim Stützle is driving the Senators’ attack and has been a catalyst in their recent wins, and Ottawa scored 4 goals in their latest outing before this game. Meanwhile, Nashville’s Juuse Saros — while often strong — has been tagged for goals lately (allowing 3+ in multiple recent games) and the Predators’ defense has been inconsistent. The Senators also have a marginal edge in expected goals, suggesting they generate better scoring chances.
NHL Best Bet: Red Wings/Wild over 6.5
Detroit has rattled off strong offensive performances — winning 7 of their last 8 and consistently scoring — while Minnesota has struggled defensively in recent games, allowing 4+ goals repeatedly. Both teams can push pace, and historical trends this season show this matchup cracking the 6-goal mark often. Given both sides’ scoring tendencies and goaltender inconsistencies, the over 6.5 goals looks like value.
NHL Best Bet: Blackhawks +1.5 (at Hurricanes)
Chicago is under the radar as an underdog, but they’ve been more competitive than many realize — particularly away from home. Carolina can be tough, yet the Blackhawks often outperform expectations in one-goal games and have shown ability to hang in through all periods. The Blackhawks’ puckline odds are -105 at +1.5, increasing their value. If they can merely keep it close with Carolina, then we’ll be in a good spot to cash.
Thursday NHL Best Bets Jan. 22
- Ottawa Senators -114
- Red Wings/Wild over 6.5
- Chicago Blackhawks +1.5 (-105)
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