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Minnesota (46-24-12) at Dallas (50-20-12)
- When: Apr 18 2026, 5:30 PM
- Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- TV: ESPN
Minnesota vs Dallas NHL Preview & Pick
Moneyline: Dallas -120
Spread: Dallas -1.5 (+210)
Total: 6.0
Dallas Stars Betting Breakdown
Dallas rolls into Game 1 as a slight favorite at -120, and the timing could not be better. This team is heating up with a five-game win streak and finally getting healthier at the right moment. Jason Robertson continues to lead the charge with 45 goals and 96 points, giving Dallas a reliable offensive weapon every night.
The return of key contributors like Sam Steel and Nils Lundkvist adds depth, while Miro Heiskanen trending back boosts the blue line. Even without Tyler Seguin and Roope Hintz, this lineup has found rhythm. For bettors, Dallas brings momentum and scoring consistency, which matters in a playoff opener at home.
Minnesota Wild Betting Breakdown
Minnesota comes in as a live underdog, and their biggest strength is between the pipes. The tandem of Jesper Wallstedt and Filip Gustavsson gives this team flexibility and stability. Wallstedt posted a .916 save percentage, one of the best marks in the league, while Gustavsson brings experience with a .904 clip.
Offensively, the Wild are more balanced than explosive, which means they rely on structure and goaltending to stay in games. Quinn Hughes is expected to be available, which is key for their defensive stability. If Minnesota slows the pace and limits high-danger chances, they can frustrate Dallas and keep this tight.
NHL Playoffs Betting Prediction
This matchup sets up as a classic playoff grind. Dallas has the edge with momentum and home ice, but Minnesota’s goaltending keeps them dangerous throughout.
The total at 6.0 suggests a tighter, defensive game, and that lines up with how Minnesota prefers to play.
Lean Dallas to win a close opener, with the under holding value if both goalies perform to form.
Score Prediction: Stars 3, Wild 2
Pick: Dallas ML (-120)
Total: Under 6.0 (-122)
- NHL Playoffs Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
