Friday NHL Best Bets April 3: Will Ducks hand Blues third straight loss?

Friday NHL Best Bets April 3 Friday NHL Best Bets April 3

Last Updated on April 3, 2026 1:35 pm by Anthony Rome

Friday’s NHL slate is smaller, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t value—especially if you’re reading how teams are trending late in the season. At this stage, motivation, fatigue, and style mismatches become even more important, often leading to totals that don’t fully reflect current form and sides where the better situational team is undervalued.

Tonight’s card features a total that looks a bit too low given recent offensive trends, along with a home favorite in a strong position to control the game. Let’s break down the best bets.

🎰 CASINO BONUS OFFER
Bet and Get up to $3,750 in Bonus Cash!
21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. New users only. Terms & conditions apply.

Claim Offer

NHL Best Bet: Flyers vs. Islanders OVER 5.5, 7:00 p.m. ET

This number feels a bit short for how this matchup is currently playing out.

While both teams have traditionally leaned toward structure, recent form suggests more offensive involvement on both sides. Philadelphia has shown a greater willingness to push pace, especially in games where they can generate chances off the forecheck.

The Islanders, while still disciplined, have also been contributing more offensively and have seen games creep higher when facing teams that don’t sit back. The key shift here is that neither team is purely locking things down right now—they’re both finding ways to score.

At 5.5, you don’t need a full shootout—just a steady pace and contributions from both sides. A 3-3 type of game gets you there, and that’s well within reach if this opens up early.

Pick: OVER 5.5 goals


NHL Best Bet: Ducks -136 (vs. Blues), 10:00 p.m. ET

This is a strong spot for Anaheim at home.

The Ducks have been the more reliable team in this matchup, particularly in terms of consistency and defensive structure. They’ve done a better job limiting high-danger chances while still generating enough offense to win games.

St. Louis, on the other hand, has been more volatile. While capable of solid performances, they’ve struggled to maintain consistency over full 60-minute efforts—especially on the road against structured teams.

Anaheim’s edge here comes from control. If they dictate pace and keep this game in a manageable tempo, they should be able to neutralize St. Louis’ strengths and capitalize on mistakes.

At -136, you’re paying a reasonable price for the more dependable side, especially at home.

Pick: Ducks -136


Friday NHL Best Bets April 3

  1. Flyers/Islanders over 5.5
  2. Anaheim Ducks -136
🥅 Ready to Place Your Bet?
Up to $750 in Bonuses For New Players!
21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. New users only. Terms & conditions apply.

BET NOW!

 

Follow: Twitter/X · Bluesky · Facebook

Responsible Gaming

For help and resources, visit our Responsible Gaming page or the National Council on Problem Gambling.

Affiliate Disclosure

We may receive affiliate commissions if you sign up through links on our site. Read our full Affiliate Disclosure.