Los Angeles Kings at Montreal Canadiens Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 10/17/2024 7:00 PM EST
We have your Los Angeles Kings at Montreal Canadiens prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Los Angeles Kings hit the road to face the Montreal Canadiens.
Los Angeles Kings at Montreal Canadiens Odds Info
Best Moneyline Odds: Los Angeles Kings -115 (bet365) / Montreal Canadiens +100 (BetMGM)
Best Puck Line Odds: 1.5 - Los Angeles Kings +220 (bet365) / Montreal Canadiens -250 (BetMGM)
Best Total Odds: 6.5 - Under -134 (FanDuel) / 6.0 - Over -108 (BetRivers)
Game Info
Date: 10/17/2024
Time: 7:00 PM EST
Location: Bell Centre (Montreal, QC)
TV: ESPN+
Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis
Over the past three seasons, the Los Angeles Kings and the Montreal Canadiens have faced off four times, with the Kings emerging victorious in all four encounters. The games were evenly split between home and away victories, with each team winning twice on their home ice. In terms of betting outcomes, the Kings have covered the spread in three of these matchups, while the Canadiens managed to cover the spread once. Notably, all four games have resulted in the total score falling under the set over-under line, indicating a trend towards lower-scoring contests between these two teams.
The most recent game between the Kings and the Canadiens took place on December 7, 2023, where the Kings secured a decisive 4-0 victory in Montreal. The Kings were the favorites with a closing moneyline of -220, and they successfully covered the spread of 1.5 goals. Los Angeles dominated the game, outshooting Montreal 42 to 24 and converting on their sole power play opportunity, while the Canadiens failed to capitalize on any of their three power play chances. Cam Talbot was in goal for the Kings and recorded a shutout with 24 saves, contributing to the team's strong defensive performance. The Kings also had a significant edge in blocked shots, with 18 compared to the Canadiens' 9.
In the December 7 game, Drew Doughty opened the scoring for the Kings in the first period, followed by two goals from Quinton Byfield, one in the first period and another in the second. Trevor Moore added the final goal in the third period. Anze Kopitar was instrumental in the Kings' offensive efforts, providing assists on three of the four goals. The Kings' ability to maintain pressure and capitalize on scoring opportunities was evident, as they maintained a high shot count and effectively managed their power play. This game further solidified the Kings' dominance over the Canadiens in recent matchups.
Los Angeles Kings at Montreal Canadiens Preview
The Los Angeles Kings are set to face the Montreal Canadiens in what promises to be an intriguing matchup at the Bell Centre. Both teams are eager to bounce back from recent setbacks, with the Kings looking to end a three-game losing streak and the Canadiens aiming to find consistency after a mixed start to their season. The Kings, who have been on a challenging seven-game road trip due to arena renovations, have shown flashes of offensive prowess, particularly from Kevin Fiala, who has netted three goals in the past two games. However, their recent struggles have been attributed to an ineffective 'East-West' style of play, as noted by forward Trevor Lewis, and they will need to tighten up their game to secure a win.
On the other hand, the Canadiens are coming off a disappointing loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins, where defensive lapses and a lack of sharpness were evident. Despite this, Montreal has been effective on the power play, converting in all four of their games this season, a trend they will hope to continue against the Kings. The Canadiens' defense, led by David Savard, who is set to play his 800th NHL game, will need to step up to contain the Kings' attack. Savard himself has acknowledged the need for better execution and consistency, especially during challenging moments in games.
Historically, the Kings have had the upper hand in recent encounters with the Canadiens, winning all four of their last meetings, including two shutout victories last season. The Kings' ability to dominate defensively, as seen in their previous 4-0 win in Montreal, will be crucial. With both teams seeking redemption and a return to form, this matchup is poised to be a competitive affair, with each side looking to exploit the other's weaknesses while building on their strengths.
Los Angeles Kings at Montreal Canadiens Pick: Total Goals Over
As the Los Angeles Kings prepare to face the Montreal Canadiens, the potential for a high-scoring affair is evident, making the over on total goals an enticing pick. Both teams have shown offensive capabilities early in the season, with the Kings' Kevin Fiala finding the back of the net three times in the past two games. Despite their recent struggles, the Kings have demonstrated an ability to generate scoring opportunities, as evidenced by their 42 shots on goal in their last meeting with the Canadiens. This offensive pressure, combined with the Canadiens' defensive lapses, suggests a game that could see plenty of goals.
Moreover, the Canadiens have been consistent on the power play, converting in all four of their games this season. This efficiency with the man advantage could exploit the Kings' penalty issues, as Los Angeles committed an average of 3.7 penalties per game last season. The Canadiens' ability to capitalize on these opportunities will be crucial in driving up the score.
While the Kings have historically dominated the Canadiens, including two shutout victories last season, the current dynamics point towards a more open game. The Kings' recent 'East-West' style of play, as noted by Trevor Lewis, has led to more open-ice situations, which could result in higher scoring chances for both teams. Additionally, the Canadiens' recent defensive struggles, highlighted by David Savard's minus-5 rating, further support the likelihood of a high-scoring contest.
Given these factors, the over on total goals appears to be a strong pick for this matchup. Both teams are eager to bounce back from recent setbacks, and their offensive potential, combined with defensive vulnerabilities, sets the stage for a game that could easily surpass the set goal total.
Los Angeles Kings at Montreal Canadiens Top Player Prop Picks
Kevin Fiala Over 2.5 Shots On Goal -143 (BetRivers)
Kevin Fiala has been a standout performer for the Los Angeles Kings, particularly in their recent games. With three goals in the past two matches, Fiala has demonstrated his offensive prowess and ability to generate scoring opportunities. The Kings have been relying on his contributions as they navigate a challenging road trip. Given his current form and the fact that the Kings have been able to produce a high volume of shots, as evidenced by their 42 shots on goal in their last meeting with the Canadiens, Fiala is well-positioned to exceed the 2.5 shots on goal line. The Canadiens' recent defensive struggles, highlighted by their inability to contain the Penguins, further bolster the case for Fiala to have a productive night in terms of shots.
Juraj Slafkovsky Over 1.5 Shots On Goal -137 (BetRivers)
Juraj Slafkovsky has been a consistent presence for the Montreal Canadiens, particularly on the power play, where he has already found the back of the net this season. The Canadiens have converted on the power play in all four of their games, and Slafkovsky's role in these situations makes him a key player to watch. With the Kings committing an average of 3.7 penalties per game last season, Slafkovsky is likely to have opportunities to capitalize on the man advantage. His ability to generate shots, combined with the Kings' recent defensive vulnerabilities, suggests that he will surpass the 1.5 shots on goal line in this matchup.
Trevor Moore Over 2.5 Shots On Goal -143 (BetRivers)
Trevor Moore has been a reliable contributor for the Kings, particularly in their matchups against the Canadiens. In their previous encounters, Moore has consistently found ways to impact the game, including scoring multiple goals. With the Kings looking to end their losing streak, Moore's role in their offensive strategy will be crucial. The Canadiens' defensive lapses, as seen in their recent loss to the Penguins, provide an opportunity for Moore to exploit. Given his history of success against Montreal and the Kings' need for offensive production, Moore is a strong candidate to exceed the 2.5 shots on goal line in this game.