Predators vs Blues Betting Preview

Nashville enters this matchup with belief building. Their 3-2 overtime win in Minnesota sent them into the break on a three-game streak and capped a run of 10 wins in their last 14. Steven Stamkos scored his league-leading sixth game-winner and played his 1,200th career game. Their turnaround from a 6-12-4 start pushed them back into the playoff chase.

Andrew Brunette weathered early pressure. His group committed to structure and regained confidence. Ryan O’Reilly leads the team with 32 points. Stamkos sits three goals shy of 600 and remains a central driver in their offense. Nashville’s approach tightened. Their exits sharpened. Their coverage habits improved across layers. They enter this road swing expecting to carry momentum.

St. Louis sits tied with Nashville at 36 points but played two more games. The Blues split a Florida trip before the break, beating the Panthers 6-2 before a 4-1 loss at Tampa Bay. Their structure improved over the last 10 days. Justin Faulk reached 10 goals and continues anchoring the blue line. Jim Montgomery’s group shows better consistency yet still seeks stronger habits in tight games.

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Line Movement and Odds

Predators -115, Blues -105
Total: 6.0 (over -110, under -110)

The market opened tightly due to Nashville’s surge and St. Louis’ recent stability.

Check updated numbers on the NHL odds page.

Matchup Breakdown

Nashville overview

Nashville’s progress centers on belief and detail. Their improved record stems from stronger puck management and cleaner defensive support. Stamkos and O’Reilly lead the forward core. Filip Forsberg’s scoring provides mismatch pressure. Their top-end production has carried recent wins, including two decisive results against St. Louis earlier this month.

Their 7-2 win on Dec. 11 and 5-2 win on Dec. 15 revealed pace and finishing depth. Nashville’s forecheck forced turnovers and extended cycles. Their transition game created clean lanes for their shooters. Brunette’s system fits their roster rhythm when they stay connected.

Their challenge involves carrying momentum into a long road trip. Their first-period structure determines control. Their goaltending and special teams form give them a competitive edge.

St. Louis overview

St. Louis continues improving but needs stronger offensive efficiency. Their trip through Florida tested their layers. They beat the defending champions but struggled to match Tampa Bay’s tempo. Their consistency grew over the last six games with a 3-2-1 record.

Faulk’s scoring is crucial. Their blue line contributes in transition and maintains tighter gaps than earlier in the season. Their forward group depends on timely finishing and board strength. Montgomery emphasizes competitiveness. Their pace improves when they exit cleanly and limit turnovers at the offensive blue line.

St. Louis sits within striking distance of a wild-card spot. Their urgency shapes how they approach this rivalry matchup.

Injuries

Predators

(No injuries)

Full roster outlook on the Nashville Predators page.

Blues

(No injuries)

Team overview available on the St. Louis Blues page.

Betting Trends

• Predators 10-4 in their last 14
• Predators strong in overtime and late-game situations
• Blues 3-2-1 in their last six
• Blues trending toward tighter defensive results
• Both teams around the playoff bubble with similar point totals

Best Bets and Prediction

Nashville holds matchup advantages from recent meetings and improved form. Their depth scoring and transition pace create pressure for St. Louis. The Blues improved defensively, but Nashville’s chemistry through its top line adds weight to this spot. Momentum and structure favor the road team.

Projected score: Predators 4, Blues 3
Best Bet: Predators -115
Total Lean: Over 6.0

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