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Boston (28-19-2) at Dallas (27-13-9)
- When: Jan 20 2026, 7:30 PM
- Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- TV: TNT
Boston vs Dallas NHL Preview & Pick
Moneyline: Dallas -160
Spread: Dallas -1.5 (+155)
Total: 6.0
Dallas Stars Betting Breakdown
Dallas returns home looking for a reset after a rough stretch that has cooled off one of the league’s better records. The Stars have dropped three straight games and offense has been hard to find, with just one goal scored in each of those losses. That dry spell is uncharacteristic for a team built around scoring depth and puck possession.
Despite the skid, Dallas remains firmly in the playoff picture and near the top of the Central Division. A dominant run earlier in the season built enough cushion to absorb a downturn, but the urgency is real. Shot volume has dipped late in games and the Stars have struggled to sustain pressure when trailing.
The good news is that this team knows what it looks like when things are clicking. Home ice provides an ideal opportunity to stabilize, especially against an opponent playing its second straight road game. As a moneyline favorite at minus one sixty with the total set at 6.0, Dallas is being trusted to snap out of the funk rather than continue sliding.
This matchup feels like a crossroads moment. Either the Stars reassert themselves or questions start getting louder.
Boston Bruins Betting Breakdown
Boston arrives in Texas playing some of its best hockey of the season. The Bruins are riding a six game winning streak and have won eight of their last ten, using strong defensive structure and timely scoring to grind out victories. They have also shown an ability to recover quickly when falling behind, which speaks to confidence and composure.
The offense has been balanced, with contributions coming from the blue line and the forward group alike. Boston has generated offense through sustained zone time rather than relying solely on rush chances, and the power play has been opportunistic when needed.
Defensively, the Bruins have tightened up and limited second chances. Getting healthier on the back end has helped stabilize coverage and breakouts. The challenge here is continuing that momentum on the road against a team desperate to flip the script.
Boston is playing with house money in this spot. Expectations are lower as an underdog, but confidence is high after stacking wins.
Prediction and Betting Outlook
Boston’s recent form makes this interesting, but situationally this favors the Stars. Dallas is overdue for offensive regression in a positive direction, and playing at home against a tired road team is a prime bounce back scenario.
Expect a tighter first period before Dallas gradually takes control. Boston will compete, but sustained pressure and urgency should tilt this late.
Score Prediction: Stars 4, Bruins 2
Pick: Dallas -1.5 (+155)
Total: Over 5.5 Alt Lines (-145)
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook