Minnesota (5-1-2) at Pittsburgh (3-6-1)
- When: Oct 29 2024, 7:00 PM
- Where: PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Where to watch: SportsNet PT
Minnesota Wild @ Pittsburgh Penguins
Moneyline
Minnesota Wild -125
Pittsburgh Penguins +105
Minnesota Wild @ Pittsburgh Penguins
Puck Line
Minnesota Wild -1.5 (+200)
Pittsburgh Penguins 1.5 (-240)
Minnesota Wild @ Pittsburgh Penguins
Total
Over 6.5 (EVEN)
Under 6.5 (-120)
- Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
Team Stats
| Wild | Penguins | |
| 5-1-2 | Record | 3-6-1 |
| 4-1-1 | Away & Home | 1-2-0 |
| 5-1-2 | Last 10 | 3-6-1 |
| L1 | Streak | L5 |
Last Matchup:
MIN 3-2, February 9th, 2024
Game Preview
As Marc-Andre Fleury potentially steps onto the ice at PPG Paints Arena for the last time in his illustrious career, the Minnesota Wild conclude a seven-game road trip against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday. Bettors should note the emotional stakes and historical context of this matchup, as Fleury, a three-time Stanley Cup champion and former first overall pick by Pittsburgh in 2003, may face his old team. Although it’s uncertain if the 39-year-old goaltender will start, his presence could be a significant factor; he holds Penguins franchise records in games played (691), wins (375), and shutouts (44).
Fleury expressed his excitement about returning to Pittsburgh, saying, "It’s always special coming back, and I’m looking forward to the game." If he doesn’t get the nod, the Wild might turn to former Penguins draft pick Filip Gustavsson, adding another layer for those considering goalie performance bets.
Minnesota’s offense is heating up, led by Kirill Kaprizov, who is on a five-game multi-point streak—just one game shy of the franchise record set by Mats Zuccarello in the 2021-22 season. Kaprizov has amassed three goals and eight assists during this span, making him a strong candidate for player prop bets on points or assists. Marcus Foligno also netted his first two goals of the season in a recent 7-5 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers, indicating that the Wild’s scoring depth is a factor to consider for over/under goal totals.
On the flip side, the Penguins are struggling defensively, having allowed 21 non-shootout goals during a five-game losing streak (0-4-1). Their recent 4-3 loss to the Vancouver Canucks saw them concede four goals in the second period alone. Forward Rickard Rakell acknowledged the defensive breakdowns, saying, "We’ve got to find a way to settle down and restart." This defensive slump could make betting on the Wild’s offense more appealing.
Pittsburgh goalie Alex Nedeljkovic emphasized the need for a quick turnaround, noting that "the next 10 games are going to come fast." Offensively, Evgeni Malkin snapped a four-game point drought with a goal and two assists against Vancouver. Leading the team with 11 assists and 14 points, Malkin could be a pivotal figure for those eyeing Penguins’ scoring props.
Injury reports may influence betting lines as well. Penguins forward Bryan Rust sustained a lower-body injury and is questionable for the game, potentially impacting Pittsburgh’s offensive output. Meanwhile, Wild captain Jared Spurgeon might return after missing six games due to a lower-body injury, which could strengthen Minnesota’s defense and affect the game’s goal total.
Given the Wild’s offensive momentum and the Penguins’ defensive woes, bettors might find value in backing Minnesota or considering the over on total goals. The emotional element of Fleury’s possible farewell in Pittsburgh adds another dimension to the matchup, making it a compelling game for both fans and bettors alike.
NHL Parlay Picks & Predictions
Final Score: Minnesota 4-2
The Pick: Minnesota -125 & Under 6½ (-120)
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $330
NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
