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Toronto Maple Leafs vs Nashville Predators Betting Preview
The Maple Leafs are looking to stop a two-game slide when they host the Predators on Tuesday night at Scotiabank Arena. Toronto opened the season with a win over Montreal but has since dropped back-to-back games to Detroit, including a 3-2 loss Monday that ended on a late goal.
The effort was there. Toronto outshot Detroit 40 to 15 and controlled most of the game but couldn’t convert enough chances. Coach Craig Berube said the team played well overall but needs to finish better around the net. Calle Jarnkrok scored again, his third of the season, while rookie Easton Cowan made his debut on the top line alongside Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies.
Nashville comes in at 2-1-1 after a 4-1 win in Ottawa. Juuse Saros made 31 saves, and Jonathan Marchessault scored twice to lead the way. The Predators have opened their four-game road trip with strong, structured play and confidence in net. Coach Andrew Brunette called it a “gutsy win” that showed the team’s growing maturity.
Both clubs have been trending in opposite directions early, but Toronto’s home-ice advantage and shooting volume could tilt this one back in their favor. Puck drop is set for 7:00 PM ET on ESPN+.
Line Movement and Odds
Toronto opened around -205 on the moneyline, with Nashville at +170 and a total of 6.0 goals. Early movement has been steady, with slight action on the Predators bringing the Leafs down to about -195 at most books.
The market clearly respects Juuse Saros, but Toronto’s home-ice edge and heavy shot volume keep them as a solid favorite. The total has leaned toward the over after Toronto’s last three games all went past the number.
You can monitor updated pricing and line changes on the NHL odds page.
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Matchup Breakdown
Toronto’s outlook
The Maple Leafs have played better than their record shows. They’ve outshot opponents 98 to 67 through three games but continue to struggle converting chances. William Nylander has been quiet with one empty-net goal, and Coach Craig Berube wants him attacking more often. Calle Jarnkrok has picked up the slack with three goals, and Auston Matthews remains a threat every shift.
Rookie Easton Cowan brought energy in his debut, logging over 14 minutes alongside Matthews. Toronto’s puck movement has been crisp, but the team needs to capitalize on extended offensive-zone time. Expect a fast start and more pressure on Saros after back-to-back tight losses.
Nashville’s outlook
The Predators have surprised early. They’re 2-1-1 and showing balance across all four lines. Jonathan Marchessault has three goals, and Ryan O’Reilly continues to drive the attack through the middle. Juuse Saros has been outstanding with 89 saves on 94 shots, giving Nashville a chance in every game.
Coach Andrew Brunette’s group plays heavy but structured hockey. They block shots, win board battles, and limit high-danger looks. Nashville’s challenge Tuesday will be keeping pace with Toronto’s speed while staying disciplined in transition.
Key edge
Toronto’s volume shooting and top-line skill give them a strong edge at home. Nashville’s goaltending is elite, but the Predators’ penalty kill will be tested against a Maple Leafs power play that can swing momentum fast if it finds rhythm early.
Injuries and Conditions
Toronto Maple Leafs injury report
The latest injury report lists several absences for Toronto.
Scott Laughton remains out with a lower-body injury, and Steven Lorentz is questionable with an upper-body issue.
Defenseman Marshall Rifai is sidelined with a wrist injury, while goaltender Joseph Woll remains away from the team for personal reasons.
The Leafs are expected to start Ilya Samsonov in goal on regular rest.
Nashville Predators injury report
Defenseman Nicolas Hague remains out with an upper-body injury according to the team’s most recent injury report.
Juuse Saros will get the start again after a strong outing in Ottawa, while the rest of Nashville’s core remains healthy and active for the road trip.
Weather will not impact play with the game indoors at Scotiabank Arena.
Best Bets and Prediction
Toronto has been the better team on paper despite the losses. They’ve dominated possession and shot volume but need to finish. Expect a focused effort at home after back-to-back defeats to Detroit. If the top line starts converting early, the Leafs should control this matchup.
Nashville will rely heavily on Juuse Saros again. He’s capable of stealing games, but the Predators’ offense has yet to prove it can keep pace with high-tempo teams on the road. If Toronto stays patient and capitalizes on second-chance looks, they should finally get back in the win column.
Projected score: Toronto Maple Leafs 4, Nashville Predators 2
Best bet: Toronto moneyline at -195
Secondary lean: Over 6 goals if both goaltenders are confirmed and the Leafs’ power play gets rolling early
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