Calgary (23-16-7) at Minnesota (28-16-4)
- When: Jan 25 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul, MN, USA
- TV: FDSN
Game Preview
Betting Preview: Calgary Flames vs. Minnesota Wild
Moneyline: Minnesota -165 | Total: 5.5
Saturday night in Saint Paul, the Minnesota Wild host the Calgary Flames in a crucial Western Conference matchup, as both teams aim to solidify their playoff hopes. With the Flames gaining momentum and the Wild searching for answers after a tough stretch, this game offers plenty of intrigue for bettors.
Calgary Flames: Heating Up
The Calgary Flames (23-18-7) are on a roll, riding a two-game winning streak after convincing victories over the Winnipeg Jets and Buffalo Sabres, outscoring them 8-3. Sitting in the second wild-card spot with 53 points, Calgary is laser-focused on securing their playoff position.
Flames goaltender Dustin Wolf expressed the team’s confidence:
“We believe we’re going to make the postseason. Whether it’s as the three seed or the second wild card, we’ll get there.”
Offensively, Calgary has been clicking, and their defensive structure has limited opponents’ opportunities. Wolf (2.49 GAA, .918 SV%) has been stellar in goal and may get the nod against Minnesota. Backup Daniel Vladar, who has struggled this season (3.03 GAA, .889 SV%), could also see action, but the Flames are likely to go with their hot hand.
Calgary took the first meeting of the season between these two teams, edging out a 4-3 shootout win on Nov. 23. A win on Saturday would give them further confidence heading into their playoff push.
Minnesota Wild: Seeking Stability
The Wild (25-19-4) are in a slump, losing four of their last five games, including a 4-0 shutout loss at home to Utah on Thursday. While they remain competitive in the standings, they’ll need to tighten up defensively to end their skid.
Minnesota head coach John Hynes emphasized the need for better team defense:
“We’ve got to protect the net better. It’s not just about the goaltending, but the effort in front of the crease.”
The Wild have options in goal. Filip Gustavsson (2.63 GAA, .913 SV%) has been solid and boasts excellent career numbers against Calgary, with a 5-0-2 record and a sparkling 1.43 GAA. Marc-Andre Fleury (2.60 GAA, .909 SV%), while a veteran presence, may be less reliable given Calgary’s recent offensive form.
Offensively, the Wild need to step up, as they’ve struggled to generate consistent scoring. If their forwards fail to break through Calgary’s defense, Minnesota could be in trouble.
Betting Analysis and Predictions
Moneyline Prediction: Calgary Flames (+135)
While Minnesota is favored, Calgary’s recent form and ability to capitalize on defensive lapses make them an attractive underdog. The Flames are surging at the right time, and with Minnesota’s shaky performances, Calgary is a value play on the moneyline.
Total Prediction: Under 5.5
With both teams relying heavily on their goaltenders and Minnesota struggling offensively, this game is likely to be a low-scoring affair. Calgary’s defense has been sharp lately, and the Wild’s issues finishing chances point to a game that falls under the total.
Final Score Prediction:
Calgary 3, Minnesota 2 (OT)
Expect a close, hard-fought game with Calgary edging out Minnesota in overtime. The Flames’ momentum and goaltending should carry them past a Wild team that is still searching for consistency.
Key Takeaways for Bettors:
Moneyline Value: Calgary Flames (+135)
Total Play: Under 5.5
The Flames’ recent surge and Minnesota’s struggles provide an opportunity for bettors to capitalize on the underdog. With both teams aiming for the playoffs, this matchup is set to be a tightly contested battle where defense takes center stage.
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
