Last Updated on March 2, 2026 2:32 pm by Anthony Rome
Monday’s NHL slate features six games across the league, with key matchups that have playoff implications, goaltending storylines, and momentum swings after the recent Olympic break. With the postseason push underway, every point matters — and tonight’s action offers great spots for strategic, under-the-radar bets. Keep reading our Monday NHL Best Bets March 2 column for our favorite plays tonight.
NHL Best Bets: Blue Jackets -117 (at Rangers), 7:00 p.m. ET
This matchup features a classic league dynamic: a rebuilding, high-energy team versus a contender that has oscillated between streaky and stagnant. The Columbus Blue Jackets have shown flashes of depth scoring and are dangerous on the rush, especially when their young forwards get space down the middle.
The New York Rangers, meanwhile, have been inconsistent and are vulnerable if their transition play isn’t crisp. Columbus doesn’t need a blowout — they need structure and goaltending to keep this close, and they have both in stretches.
With Columbus not priced as a heavy underdog, this moneyline play represents excellent value and a chance to beat the spread outright.
Pick: Blue Jackets ML (+111)
Why: Momentum underdogs with transition prowess and good upside if the Rangers flag.
Monday NHL Best Bets: Flyers +108 (at Maple Leafs), 7:30 p.m. ET
The Maple Leafs are in a bit of a funk, and despite the puck suggesting they’re favorites, that hasn’t translated into consistent performance in recent weeks. Their defensive zone coverage has been shaky — even after adding reinforcements — and their recent medallion proximity hasn’t been backed by results.
On the flip side, the Philadelphia Flyers are hitting their stride. They’ve been more resilient on defense and opportunistic on offense, outshooting opponents while limiting high-danger chances. Their underdog status and value pricing — despite Toronto being tagged as favorites — make them sharp picks in moneyline situations.
Pick: Flyers ML (+112)
Why: Toronto’s inconsistency + Flyers’ defensive stinginess and opportunistic scoring.
Monday NHL Best Bets March 2
- Columbus Blue Jackets -117
- Philadelphia Flyers +108
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