Last Updated on February 2, 2026 10:39 am by Anthony Rome
Will the Penguins stay hot with a win over the Senators at 7:00 p.m. ET? Can the Canadiens and Wild produce enough offense to get over the 6.5-goal total in Minnesota at 7:30 p.m. ET? Our Monday NHL Best Bets Feb. 2 column offers selections for three of tonight’s matchups in hockey.
NHL Best Bet: Penguins -111 (vs. Senators)
On paper this is a tight Eastern Conference tilt, but the Penguins hold a clear edge in form and depth. Pittsburgh is riding a 6-game winning streak, showing the kind of consistency that beats shaky offenses. Ottawa has been hit and miss — their recent surge is more about volume than efficiency.
Why this is a strong pick:
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Pittsburgh’s offensive depth is clicking (not just Crosby, but secondary scoring too).
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Ottawa’s goaltending inconsistencies make them vulnerable to sustained pressure — especially at even strength.
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Penguins are playing at home, which matters in crucial puck battle situations.
NHL Best Bet: Canadiens/Wild over 6.5
This game has all the makings of a high-scoring affair. Both clubs consistently appear in goals-heavy games — Minnesota is top-tier offensively, and Montreal ranks among the league’s best in scoring as well.
Why this totals play makes sense:
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Both teams have combined for 6+ goals frequently this season.
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Minnesota’s home scoring is elite, especially early in games, forcing opponents to chase offense.
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Canadiens counter with speed and finishing efficiency that helps keep pucks in the net.
This Over is ideal for players who like pace, transition hockey, and open defenses.
NHL Best Bet: Capitals -117 (vs. Islanders)
The New York Islanders vs. Washington Capitals matchup is shaping up as a tight, low-margin game, but current consensus odds tilt slightly in favor of Washington on the moneyline (around −128).
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The Islanders have shown inconsistency this season; while capable of scoring, they aren’t dominating the Capitals in recent head-to-head matchups.
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Washington has a home-ice bite and more consistent goaltending, which tight linesmen respect in close games — making Capitals moneyline a viable pick in a matchup where neither side is a standout favorite.
Monday NHL Best Bets Feb. 2
- Pittsburgh Penguins -111
- Canadiens/Wild over 6.5
- Washington Capitals -117
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