Toronto (38-21-3) at Colorado (37-24-2)
- When: Mar 8 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Ball Arena, Denver, CO, USA
- TV: ALT
Colorado vs. Toronto Betting Preview
Moneyline Favorite: Colorado (-147) | Total: 6.5
The Colorado Avalanche and Toronto Maple Leafs square off in a high-stakes Saturday showdown, with both teams making significant roster changes at the trade deadline. Colorado aims to integrate several new acquisitions into their lineup, while Toronto looks to bounce back from back-to-back losses and stay in the hunt for the top spot in the Atlantic Division.
Colorado Avalanche: Strengthened for a Playoff Push
The Avalanche (37-20-5) were among the busiest teams ahead of Friday’s trade deadline, making multiple moves to bolster their depth for a deep postseason run. Their most notable acquisitions include Brock Nelson (Islanders), Charlie Coyle (Bruins), and Ryan Lindgren (Rangers), adding critical pieces to both their forward and defensive units.
Perhaps the biggest splash was bringing Erik Johnson back to Colorado. The veteran defenseman spent over 12 years with the Avalanche and was a key part of their 2022 Stanley Cup run before leaving last season.
The front office’s aggressive moves show that Colorado is in win-now mode, a sentiment echoed by Cale Makar, who set a franchise record with six points in a single game against San Jose on Thursday. Nathan MacKinnon, the league’s top scorer (98 points), continues to be a force, while Artturi Lehkonen leads the team with 26 goals.
Sitting fourth in the Central Division, the Avs are pushing to solidify a playoff spot while also keeping an eye on the Western Conference wild-card race.
Key Betting Trends for Colorado:
- Colorado is 6-2 in its last eight home games.
- The Avalanche have scored 4+ goals in five of their last six games.
- MacKinnon has recorded at least one point in 15 of his last 16 games.
Prediction for Colorado:
With so many new faces in the lineup, there could be some early chemistry issues, but their firepower remains elite. Look for the Avalanche to keep the offense rolling against a Toronto team that has struggled defensively of late.
Toronto Maple Leafs: Looking to Get Back on Track
Toronto (36-19-8) made two key trade deadline moves, acquiring Scott Laughton (Flyers) and Brandon Carlo (Bruins). Laughton is expected to center the third line and add grit, while Carlo provides much-needed depth on defense.
The Maple Leafs have been treading water in the brutal Atlantic Division, where they currently sit two points behind Florida and just one point ahead of surging Tampa Bay. The pressure is mounting as they come off consecutive losses, including a 5-2 defeat in Vegas on Wednesday to start this road trip.
Toronto has played 11 of its last 13 games on the road, a stretch that has tested their depth and conditioning. They’ll need a strong performance here before heading back home.
Mitch Marner continues to lead the team in scoring (77 points), while William Nylander (35 goals) and John Tavares (53 points) provide additional offensive threats. Auston Matthews has been limited to just 53 points this season due to injury but remains a constant scoring threat.
Key Betting Trends for Toronto:
- The Maple Leafs are 3-6 in their last nine road games.
- Toronto has allowed 3+ goals in six of its last eight games.
- The OVER has hit in four of their last six matchups against Colorado.
Prediction for Toronto:
The Maple Leafs have the offensive firepower to keep up with Colorado, but their road struggles and defensive lapses are concerning. With a heavy travel schedule catching up to them, Toronto could struggle against a rejuvenated Avalanche squad looking to make a statement at home.
Final Prediction & Best Bets
Colorado is energized with multiple trade deadline upgrades, while Toronto is limping into this matchup after a rough road stretch. The Avs have the momentum and a significant edge at home, making them the team to back here.
Best Bet: Colorado Moneyline (-147)
The Avs are 6-2 in their last eight home games, and Toronto’s defense has been too inconsistent to trust.
Lean Over 6.5 (+100) Goals
Both teams boast high-powered offenses, and with new players adjusting to their respective systems, expect defensive breakdowns that lead to scoring opportunities.
Look for Colorado to capitalize on Toronto’s fatigue and road woes, securing another key win in their playoff push.
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
