Bruins vs. Maple Leafs Prediction
The Toronto Maple Leafs stayed alive as they held on to defeat the Boston Bruins in Game 5. Will the Maple Leafs win again at home tonight to force a Game 7?
Game Snapshot
17 Boston Bruins at 18 Toronto Maple Leafs
Monday, April 23, 2018
Air Canada Centre at 7PM ET
TV: NBCSN
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Public Betting Information
According to oddsmakers at YouWager, the Bruins are listed as a -125 favorite on the moneyline. The Maple Leafs are a +105 underdog, while the total is set at 6 goals. Check out our NHL Public Betting Page for the latest information.
Andersen rounding into form
Toronto goalie Frederik Andersen had a rough start to this series as he allowed five goals in Game 1 and then was yanked in the first period after allowing three goals in Game 2. He was outstanding the next game as the Maple Leafs earned their first win, but then took a step back three days later in giving up three goals on only 21 shots in a 3-1 loss. But with the season on the line in Game 5, Andersen allowed three goals again yet this time he also recorded 42 saves for a save percentage of .933 as Toronto won 4-3. The Maple Leafs will need a similar effort tonight as they once again put their season on the line, this time on their home ice.
Rask struggles in defeat
Boston goalie Tuukka Rask did not make it through Game 5 as he surrendered four goals on 13 shots and received the hook in favor of Anton Khubodin. The backup was much better, although he wasn’t tested much in saving all eight shots sent his way. Rask has been a trustworthy goalie for years in Boston and will get the nod again tonight, but if he struggles early he might not have a long leash if the Bruins fall behind.
NHL Betting Trends
Boston
The Bruins are 1-5 in their last six road games. Boston is 1-5 in its last six meetings in Toronto.
Toronto
The over is 4-1-1 in the last six meetings. The Maple Leafs are 0-4 in their last four games following a victory.
Prediction:
Toronto was strong last game in Boston and managed to hold off a late Bruins rush. Andersen is playing with confidence again and the Maple Leafs offense is hard to hold down on their home ice. If Rask is shaky again, the hosts will take advantage. I’m taking the plus money with Toronto.
NHL DAILY PREDICTION: TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS +105