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Hurricanes looking to finish off sweep of Senators
The Ottawa Senators will be in danger of elimination when they host the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 4 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series on Saturday afternoon.
The Hurricanes, the top seed in the Eastern Conference, went up 3-0 in the series with a 2-1 win over the host Senators on Thursday night.
“Just going to keep believing, keep playing our game,” Ottawa forward Tim Stutzle said. “I mean, we scored three goals in three games, so it’s tough to win like that, and we just got to find a way.”
Carolina will be trying to win at least one round in the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the sixth consecutive season.
“We’re feeling good about ourselves, but you know, the hardest to win is always that fourth win,” said Hurricanes forward Taylor Hall.
Carolina’s Logan Stankoven has scored the first goal of the contest in all three games. It is only the second time in NHL history that a player has scored the opening goal in the first three games of the postseason since George Armstrong did it for the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1956.
Stankoven is also one short of the all-time playoff opening-goal streak of four, set by Michel Goulet of the Quebec Nordiques in 1985.
“Good feeling to start the game and takes a little bit of pressure off of us,” Stankoven said. “They were going to be excited to come out and try to steal this one, so it was nice just to settle things down.”
He opened the scoring in Game 3 at the 5:13 mark.
Drake Batherson tied it for the Senators with 3:54 left in the second period but Jackson Blake untied it just 1:23 later.
“They scored one, the building erupted a little bit there, and I don’t know if they got a little momentum there, and then just to get that one quick answer right away, I think that was really big for us as a group,” Blake said.
The line of Stankoven (three goals and an assist), Hall (one goal, four assists) and Blake (one goal, three assists) has dominated the series.
Ottawa will have to try and stay alive without top defenseman Jake Sanderson, who is out with a concussion. He left Game 3 in the second period after getting hit in the head by Hall, who received a two-minute minor penalty for an illegal check. Sanderson played two shifts after the hit before departing.
“Not fun,” fellow Ottawa defenseman Thomas Chabot said of Sanderson’s injury. “That’s the biggest piece of our team, probably. So seeing him going down the tunnel is not good. He plays such big minutes. The way he plays, it’s like I’ve said earlier this year when we lost him, there’s no other Jake Sanderson, so it’s a big loss for us, for sure.”
Sanderson played a game-high 43:06 with two assists and was plus-2 in the Senators’ 3-2 double-overtime loss in Game 2 on Monday night.
Ottawa is already without defenseman Artem Zub, who suffered an undisclosed injury in Game 1. He and Sanderson made up the team’s top defense pairing.
Defenseman Tyler Kleven returned on Thursday after missing nine games with an upper-body injury.
–Field Level Media
Pistons look to carry momentum into Game 3 vs. Magic
The Detroit Pistons almost were unrecognizable for the first six quarters of their first-round series against the Orlando Magic, but that all changed in the span of about eight minutes.
The top-seeded Pistons appear to have finally settled in as they head into Game 3 against the eighth-seeded Magic on Saturday in Orlando, Fla.
After losing its playoff opener 112-101, Detroit evened the best-of-seven Eastern Conference clash with an impressive 98-83 win on Wednesday.
Cade Cunningham had 27 points, 11 assists and six rebounds to lead Detroit, which was tied at the half before opening the third quarter on a 30-3 run over a span of eight minutes.
Coach J.B. Bickerstaff provided some well-timed advice at halftime to help the Pistons snap an 11-game home playoff losing streak.
“(Bickerstaff) really got on us in the locker room,” Detroit forward Tobias Harris said. “(His message was) there is no more of ‘my bads.’ It’s like they’re out there hustling, getting offensive boards on us. And there’s too many of them for us (to allow) as a group. We know that’s not our standard. So he was on us. We were able to find that little spark.”
Harris scored 16 points in the victory, while Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson had 11 apiece.
After being outplayed in nearly every category in Game 1, Detroit started to look more like the East’s top team on Wednesday. The Pistons held Orlando to 32.5% shooting from the field and 25% (8 of 32) from 3-point range in the victory.
“This is a good team we’re playing against,” Bickerstaff said. “If that team is healthy most of the season, they’re not an eighth-seeded team. They’re a very talented, very good basketball team. We’ve got a ton of respect for that team and they’re well-coached. But if we play Pistons basketball, we feel like we can beat anybody.”
The series now shifts to Orlando’s Kia Center, where the Magic are 6-1 in their last seven postseason games, including play-in tournament games.
Orlando is looking to bounce back after being held to a season low in points on Wednesday. Jalen Suggs scored 19 points and Paolo Banchero added 18 for the Magic, who were outscored 54-34 in the paint.
“You have to give them credit,” Banchero said. “I thought we had some good looks in the first half. They met us at the rim a few times. They brought the intensity on defense. We got good looks and nobody really had a great night shooting the ball. Not a game you’d expect to win looking at the stat sheet, but I would say it’s nothing that’s discouraging.”
Forward Franz Wagner said the Magic can lean on their experience as the series heads into the pivotal Game 3.
“The playoffs are way different, and it definitely helps to have been there before and just kind of know how the flow of a series goes,” Wagner said. “It’s still early in the series. Also, (we know) that margins will decide these games. That’s the beauty of the playoffs and that’s why it’s important to play every possession really well.”
Orlando will need more production from guard Desmond Bane, who is averaging 14.5 points on 29% shooting in the first two games of the series. Bane also is shooting 20% (3 of 15) from 3-point range.
–Field Level Media
Hawks look to build comfortable series lead over Knicks
The New York Knicks held a comfortable lead for most of their Game 1 win last weekend.
Since then, the Atlanta Hawks have made things massively uncomfortable for an opponent with aspirations of a deep postseason run.
The pressure is intensifying for the Knicks, who will look to even up the first-round playoff series Saturday night when they visit the Hawks for Game 4.
“The reality of it is, it’s a seven-game series for a reason,” Knicks coach Mike Brown said after Jalen Brunson’s turnover with 1.2 seconds left ended a 109-108 loss in Game 3 on Thursday. “Stuff’s going to happen. Plenty of teams have been down 1-2, even OKC was down 1-2 last year and they ended up winning it. I’m not saying we’re going to win.
“This should sting. We gave ourselves a chance knowing we didn’t play our best basketball, so it should sting. We need to feel it and be locked in for the next games.”
If the Hawks can win again, they will get a chance to advance to the second round with another win in Game 5 on Tuesday in New York. If the Knicks can overcome their struggles in the past two games, the series will return to Atlanta for Game 6.
New York opened the first-round Eastern Conference series with a 113-102 win when it led by as many as 19 and shot 47.5%. New York was on the way to taking a 2-0 lead on Monday but lost a 13-point lead in the third quarter and suffered a 107-106 loss.
CJ McCollum scored 32 points in Game 2 and was clutch again to seize the series lead on Thursday. Atlanta led by 18 in the first half but lost an 11-point lead with 8:06 left in the fourth quarter before finishing off its win.
“It’s just everyone’s on a string,” Atlanta’s Dyson Daniels said. “Everyone’s playing for each other. I still think throughout the game we can do better with rotating, especially taking away layups.
“I think we take away the 3-point line, but we got to be early on the layups, but it’s a little thing we can work on. But overall, our guys are really flying around, having each other’s back, shifting for each other.”
McCollum capped a 23-point performance by hitting a 16-foot fadeaway with 12.7 seconds left and the Hawks finished it with a defensive stop when Jonathan Kuminga stole the ball from Brunson.
“I like the way we fought back, but there’s a lot of things throughout the game that myself, I can be better at,” Brunson said.
The defensive stand on Brunson was part of Atlanta’s stout defense through most of Game 3. The Hawks limited the Knicks to 43.0% shooting, forced 15 turnovers and were particularly effective in the opening quarter when they outscored New York 33-21.
“I think we set the tone right from the jump,” Atlanta forward Jalen Johnson said. “If we have that same mentality going into the next game I think we’ll put ourselves in a good position.”
Brunson scored 26 points and his three-point play gave the Knicks a 108-105 lead with 63 seconds left. OG Anunoby led the Knicks with 29 while Karl-Anthony Towns collected 21 points and 17 rebounds,
Knicks starters Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart combined for two points on 1-of-12 shooting.
Hart played 40 minutes and had nine rebounds, but Bridges was limited to 21 minutes as reserve Miles McBride contributed 15 points in 31 minutes by hitting five of New York’s 10 3-pointers.
–Field Level Media
Brandon Nimmo, Rangers take aim at Athletics
After taking two of three contests from the Pittsburgh Pirates to open a nine-game homestand, the Texas Rangers will welcome the Athletics to Arlington for the opener of a three-game series on Friday night.
The Rangers are feeling good about their offseason trade that landed them a reliable leadoff hitter, outfielder Brandon Nimmo, from the New York Mets.
With a two-hit game in Texas’ 6-1 series-clinching win over the Pirates on Thursday night, Nimmo raised his batting average to .304 for the season. He’s recorded seven doubles, four home runs and 11 RBIs in his first 25 games with the Rangers.
After spending the first 10 years of his career with the Mets, Nimmo came to Texas in a November transaction that sent second baseman Marcus Semien to New York.
Nimmo, 33, got an early chance to celebrate a career achievement with his new team, as he recorded his 1,000th career hit in the Rangers’ 7-3 loss in Seattle last Saturday.
Texas manager Skip Schumaker has praised Nimmo for his attitude and the dimension he’s added to the lineup.
“All he cares about is winning. We’re just so fortunate to have him,” Schumaker said.
Nathan Eovaldi (2-3, 5.06 ERA) will be Texas’ starting pitcher for Friday’s opener. Eovaldi, who is in the second season of a three-year, $75 million deal, last pitched on the day Nimmo reached his hitting milestone. He took the loss Saturday after giving up four runs (two earned) on eight hits in five innings vs. the Mariners.
Eovaldi, 36, is 4-2 with a 2.54 ERA in 15 career appearances (all starts) against the A’s.
The Athletics come to Arlington following an off day and with renewed spirit after winning a series at Seattle to begin the week. They defeated the Mariners 6-4 on Monday and 5-2 on Tuesday before dropping a 5-4 decision in the series finale on Wednesday.
The Athletics needed the break that their travel day on Thursday provided, as they just wrapped a stretch of 16 games in 16 days dating to April 7. Manager Mark Kotsay said he was happy to see his team rewarded after gutting through its uninterrupted run of games.
“This club came in here focused, prepared — to see them win a series at the end of it, it’s a good feeling,” Kotsay said.
Luis Severino (0-2, 6.20 ERA) will start start for the A’s on Friday. The right-hander is 2-3 with a 3.97 ERA in nine career appearances (eight starts) against the Rangers.
Severino has struggled for control, walking 20 hitters in 24 2/3 innings this season.
This will be the second meeting between the Athletics and Rangers this season. The teams split a four-game set hosted by the A’s from April 13-16. Texas won the head-to-head series last season, 8-5.
–Field Level Media
Cremonese travel to Stadio Diego Armando Maradona to face Napoli on Friday, April 24, 2026, in the opening match of Serie A Round 34. Kickoff is set for 20:45 CET, with Napoli trying to steady themselves after a poor two-match stretch and Cremonese fighting to stay above the relegation line.
This is a pressure spot for both clubs, just in very different ways. Napoli are still sitting near the top of the table, but the title chase has slipped away after a draw at Parma and a 2-0 home loss to Lazio. Cremonese are one place above the drop zone and level on points with Lecce, so even a draw in Naples would feel like a useful result.
The market is heavily tilted toward Napoli, which is understandable. Still, the recent attacking dip matters. Napoli failed to register a shot on target against Lazio, and Cremonese are likely to arrive with a low block, survival urgency, and very little interest in turning this into a wide-open match.
Go Inside the Handicappers’ Playbook
All in one spot. Real-time line moves, sharp reads, and verified edges.
Cremonese vs Napoli Odds
These are the current betting lines for this Serie A matchup, and bettors should always monitor the latest soccer odds before locking in a play. This is a 3-way moneyline market, with the draw priced around +390.
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cremonese | +950 | +1.25 (+102) | O 2.5 (-109) |
| Napoli | -313 | -1.25 (-125) | U 2.5 (-119) |
Cremonese Betting Form
Cremonese are not in great form, but they are still alive in the relegation fight. Their last five league matches include a 0-0 draw with Torino, a 1-0 loss at Cagliari, a 2-1 defeat to Bologna, a 2-0 win at Parma, and a 4-1 loss to Fiorentina. That is not pretty, but it does show one thing: when Cremonese are compact and disciplined, they can make matches uncomfortable.
The issue is chance creation. Cremonese have not scored in their last two games, and they are missing key attacking pieces, including Jamie Vardy and Faris Moumbagna. Michele Collocolo is also unavailable, which hurts their midfield legs and ball-carrying options.
From a betting perspective, the Cremonese moneyline is hard to justify even at a huge price. The better argument is the handicap. If they can keep Napoli frustrated, slow the tempo, and force the favorite into sterile possession, Cremonese +1.25 has some appeal. I do not love backing a struggling relegation side away in Naples, but the game script gives the underdog a path to hanging around.
Napoli Betting Form
Napoli are the stronger side by a clear margin, but this is not peak Napoli right now. They have taken only one point from their last two matches, drawing 1-1 at Parma before losing 2-0 at home to Lazio. That Lazio result was especially concerning because Napoli had plenty of ball without enough danger and failed to register a shot on target.
Antonio Conte also has lineup issues. David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Antonio Vergara, and Romelu Lukaku are out, while Rasmus Hojlund and André-Frank Zambo Anguissa have had fitness concerns. Hojlund is still the main finishing threat if he starts, and Scott McTominay has been one of Napoli’s more reliable late-season goal contributors.
That makes Napoli tricky at the betting window. The win probability is obvious, but laying -313 on a team that has looked flat is not attractive. Napoli -1.25 is more interesting if you believe they respond with urgency, but the better angle may be tied to the total because Cremonese’s attacking limitations and Napoli’s recent finishing issues point toward a controlled match.
Cremonese vs Napoli Matchup Breakdown
Napoli should control possession and territory. They have the better midfield quality, more technical attackers, and enough structure to pin Cremonese deep for long stretches. Kevin De Bruyne and McTominay can both attack the half-spaces, while Politano gives Napoli a natural outlet from the right if he starts.
Cremonese will likely need to defend in numbers and pick their spots. Federico Bonazzoli and Antonio Sanabria can give them a physical presence up top, but the away side will probably spend most of the match trying to survive crosses, second balls, and Napoli’s pressure after turnovers. That is not a comfortable setup, but it is the only realistic one.
The competition context points toward a cagey game. Napoli need a win to protect their top-four position and avoid letting the season drift even further. Cremonese need points in the relegation race, but they cannot afford to chase too early in Naples. A slow first half would not surprise me.
This is where bettors need to separate winner from wager. Napoli are the likely winner, but the moneyline is expensive. If you are newer to this type of pricing, the soccer betting guide is a good way to think through when a favorite is worth laying and when the handicap or total gives you a better number.
Cremonese vs Napoli Predictions and Best Bets
I lean Napoli to win, but I do not want the moneyline at this price. The gap between the teams is clear, and Cremonese do not offer enough going forward to make me excited about a road upset. Still, Napoli’s recent performances make it hard to trust them to run away with it.
The handicap is close. Napoli -1.25 can cash if they find an early goal and force Cremonese to open up, but this matchup feels more like a slow pressure game than a blowout. Cremonese will sit deep, protect the middle, and hope Napoli become impatient. That style usually creates a lot of possession without always creating a huge margin.
The total is my preferred angle. Under 2.5 at -119 is not cheap, but it matches the form profile. Napoli have scored only two goals across their last three league matches, Cremonese have been shut out in back-to-back games, and the underdog’s best chance is to reduce the match into something ugly. That sounds simple, maybe too simple, but I think it is the cleanest read.
BTTS No also makes sense, though the total gives slightly more flexibility if Napoli win 2-0 or 1-0. Cremonese may create a few moments from direct balls or set pieces, but asking them to score away against a Napoli side that should dominate field position feels like a reach.
Best Bet: Under 2.5 Goals (-119).
Serie A Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
Serie A betting gets especially interesting this late in the season because motivation is uneven across the table. Some teams are chasing Europe, some are protecting spots, and others are fighting relegation. That is why checking today’s soccer picks can help bettors compare the board before locking in one side too early.
For league-specific betting, the Serie A picks page gives readers a cleaner way to track Italy’s top-flight matchups. It is useful when prices move late or when lineup news changes the value of a side, total, or BTTS angle.
ScoresAndStats also lets bettors compare top sports handicappers and track performance through the handicapper leaderboard. If you want expert plays beyond the free board, premium soccer picks are available with transparent records and different betting styles.
FC Union Berlin travel to Red Bull Arena to face RB Leipzig on Friday, April 24, 2026, in a Bundesliga Matchweek 31 spot that matters more to the home side. Kickoff is listed for 2:30 p.m. ET, with Leipzig sitting third and trying to strengthen their Champions League position, while Union Berlin are 11th and still looking for a cleaner finish under interim coach Marie-Louise Eta.
Leipzig enter this match in strong form, with four wins in their last five and a 3-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt behind them. Union’s form is less convincing. They have lost three of their last four, and their last match was a 2-1 home defeat to Wolfsburg despite creating a large number of chances.
The betting market is not hiding the lean. Leipzig are clear favorites, and the total is shaded toward goals. That makes this less about finding a surprise winner and more about deciding whether Leipzig’s price is still playable, whether the handicap is the better angle, and whether Union can do enough in transition to spoil a clean home win.
Go Inside the Handicappers’ Playbook
All in one spot. Real-time line moves, sharp reads, and verified edges.
FC Union Berlin vs RB Leipzig Odds
These are the current betting lines for this Bundesliga matchup, and bettors should always monitor the latest soccer odds before locking in a play. This is a 3-way moneyline market, with the draw priced at +400.
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| FC Union Berlin | +575 | +1.25 (-112) | O 2.5 (-204) |
| RB Leipzig | -250 | -1.25 (-109) | U 2.5 (+155) |
FC Union Berlin Betting Form
Union Berlin are in an odd spot. The results are poor, but the last performance was not completely empty. Against Wolfsburg, Union lost 2-1, yet they produced 27 efforts toward goal compared to Wolfsburg’s five. That is the kind of stat that can tempt bettors into thinking a bounce-back is coming, but finishing and defensive lapses still matter.
Eta’s side should have enough energy and urgency, but this is a difficult matchup for their current profile. Union have not been reliable away from home, with only one win in their last eight away contests, and they have struggled to turn pressure into clean scoring margins. They can create volume, but the shot quality has not always matched the activity.
The betting angle is probably not the Union moneyline. At +575, the payout is large, but this is still a tough road ask against a Leipzig team with more attacking layers. Union +1.25 is more reasonable if you expect them to stay compact and frustrate Leipzig, but even that requires trust in a back line that has been leaking goals.
RB Leipzig Betting Form
Leipzig are playing like a team that knows exactly what is in front of them. They are third in the table and pushing to secure Champions League qualification, so the motivation is clean. Their recent Bundesliga form reads well, and the 3-1 win over Frankfurt gives them another strong data point heading into a home match where they should dictate tempo.
The numbers support the market’s respect. Leipzig are listed with 59 goals scored, fifth in the Bundesliga, and only 37 goals allowed, third best in the league. They are also second in shots, which matters here because Union’s defensive structure has been giving opponents too many good looks lately.
There are some injury concerns. David Raum and Castello Lukeba have been ruled out, and the wider Leipzig injury list also includes names such as Kosta Nedeljkovic, Leopold Zingerle, Ezechiel Banzuzi, and Viggo Gebel. Still, Willi Orban is expected to be available, and Leipzig’s projected attacking line remains dangerous with Yan Diomande, Rômulo, and Antonio Nusa.
FC Union Berlin vs RB Leipzig Matchup Breakdown
This matchup starts with Leipzig’s ability to control territory. They can push Union backward with their front three, use Christoph Baumgartner between the lines, and create wide pressure even without Raum. Max Finkgräfe’s role becomes more important there, because Leipzig still need service and width from the left side.
Union are likely to sit in a 3-4-2-1 shape, with Andrej Ilic as the central reference point and Oliver Burke or Ilyas Ansah giving them runners around him. That setup can work if Union survive Leipzig’s first waves and find transition chances. The problem is that Leipzig are not just a possession team. They can also attack quickly after turnovers, which is where Union’s midfield spacing has to be much better.
The set-piece battle also leans toward Leipzig. Union have size through Danilho Doekhi and Leopold Querfeld, so they are not helpless in dead-ball situations, but Leipzig’s overall chance volume gives them more paths to repeated pressure. If this match reaches 60 minutes at 0-0 or 1-0, Union become more dangerous because Leipzig may get impatient. If Leipzig score early, it could open quickly.
This is also a good match to think through price discipline. The soccer betting guide angle is pretty simple here: the favorite is deserved, but the moneyline is expensive. The handicap and team total markets are where bettors may find a cleaner edge.
FC Union Berlin vs RB Leipzig Predictions and Best Bets
I lean Leipzig, and I do not think that is especially controversial. They are the better team, they are at home, and they have more reliable attacking production. Union can make this annoying, but Leipzig’s shot volume and motivation make them hard to fade.
The issue is the price. Leipzig at -250 is not a great standalone bet unless you are using it in a parlay, and even then, it is still a heavy favorite price in a league where one set piece can change the whole match. The spread is more interesting. Leipzig -1.25 gives you a better return and still leaves a small amount of protection compared with laying a full -1.5.
The total is playable, but the market has already pushed hard toward Over 2.5 at -204. That number is too expensive for me. Leipzig’s recent home matches have leaned toward goals, and Union have allowed too much lately, but paying that much juice on a main total is not ideal. I would rather attach the scoring expectation to Leipzig’s side.
BTTS is a bit uncomfortable. Union created plenty against Wolfsburg and have enough runners to threaten, but Leipzig’s best route to covering the handicap is probably through control, pressure, and limiting Union’s counters. If you like Union to score, the Over becomes more attractive. I think Leipzig can get this done without needing a chaotic game.
Best Bet: RB Leipzig -1.25 Asian Handicap (-109).
Bundesliga Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
Bundesliga betting changes quickly this late in the season, especially when Champions League pressure, relegation danger, and rotation concerns start shaping lineups. That is why checking Bundesliga picks before kickoff can help bettors compare the board instead of forcing one opinion too early.
ScoresAndStats also gives bettors access to today’s soccer picks across multiple leagues, which is useful on a Friday slate with matches across Europe. Some bettors may want straight sides, while others may prefer totals, BTTS, props, or Asian handicap positions.
For a bigger-picture view, readers can compare top sports handicappers and track results through the handicapper leaderboard. If you want expert selections beyond the free board, premium soccer picks are available with tracked records and different betting styles.
Nottingham Forest travel to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland AFC on Friday, April 24, 2026, in a Premier League match with real stakes on both sides. Kickoff is set for 3:00 p.m. ET, and this is not just a late-season filler spot. Sunderland are sitting 11th with a 12-11-10 record, while Forest enter 16th at 9-15-9 and still need points to feel safe.
Sunderland are coming off a wild 4-3 loss to Aston Villa, but the bigger picture is still strong. They are safe, competitive, and only a few points off the European chase, so there is still motivation here. Forest, meanwhile, have steadied themselves with a five-match unbeaten run in league play and a 4-1 win over Burnley last time out.
That creates a tricky betting setup. Sunderland have been excellent at home, especially defensively, but Forest are in better recent form and playing with relegation pressure. The market is treating this close to a coin flip, which feels right.
Go Inside the Handicappers’ Playbook
All in one spot. Real-time line moves, sharp reads, and verified edges.
Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland AFC Odds
These are the current betting lines for this Premier League matchup, and bettors should always monitor the latest soccer odds before locking in a play. This is a 3-way moneyline market, with the draw priced around +225.
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nottingham Forest | +163 | -0.5 (+145) | O 2.5 (+114) |
| Sunderland AFC | +175 | +0.5 (-210) | U 2.5 (-145) |
Nottingham Forest Betting Form
Forest are arriving in much better rhythm than their league position suggests. The five-match unbeaten run matters, and the Burnley win was probably their cleanest attacking performance in a while. Morgan Gibbs-White’s hat trick changed the mood around this team, and he is clearly the player Sunderland have to manage between the lines.
The concern is availability. Callum Hudson-Odoi is out for the season, and Forest are also dealing with key absences across the back line and wide areas. Murillo, Dan Ndoye, Nicolò Savona, John Victor, and Willy Boly are all part of the injury picture, which makes this a little less comfortable than the recent form alone suggests.
From a betting angle, Forest are hard to dismiss on the moneyline because they are the side carrying sharper momentum. Still, asking them to win away at Sunderland, with a Europa League semifinal against Aston Villa coming next week, is not simple. The draw no bet or double chance markets make more sense than a full 3-way moneyline position on Forest.
Sunderland AFC Betting Form
Sunderland’s recent results are a little uneven, but the home profile is still the most important piece of this handicap. They have lost only three league matches at the Stadium of Light this season, and their defensive numbers at home have been among the better marks in the Premier League. That matters when the market is pricing both sides so closely.
Brian Brobbey gives Sunderland a direct focal point, and he has been active enough in the box to keep Forest’s patched-up defense honest. Sunderland do not need to dominate the ball for long stretches to create value here. They can win second balls, play quickly into forward areas, and let the home crowd turn the match into a more uncomfortable away spot for Forest.
The injury list is not clean for Sunderland either. Nilson Angulo, Bertrand Traoré, Jocelin Ta Bi, Simon Moore, and Romaine Mundle are all availability concerns or absences, and Omar Alderete’s status should be checked closer to kickoff. Even so, Sunderland’s structure at home makes them the more reliable side from a betting perspective.
Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland AFC Matchup Breakdown
The main tactical question is whether Forest can create enough without their full wide threat. Gibbs-White is dangerous in transition and can punish loose midfield spacing, but Sunderland’s home defensive shape has not been easy to break down. If Sunderland keep their back line compact and force Forest into slower possessions, the away side may need a set piece or one moment of quality.
Sunderland should be comfortable letting Forest have some phases of possession. Their better attacking moments may come from direct balls, quick switches, and pressure after turnovers. That is where Brobbey becomes important, because he can turn basic service into shot volume or fouls in advanced areas.
The schedule angle also matters. Forest have a Europa League semifinal first leg against Aston Villa on April 30, so this is a tough mental and physical spot. They cannot ignore the league because survival is not fully locked up, but there is still a workload issue. Sunderland have the cleaner single-match focus.
For bettors trying to frame the market, this is a good example of why reading price matters more than just picking the better form team. The soccer betting guide approach applies well here: Forest may be hotter, but Sunderland’s home split and defensive stability make the plus-price side attractive. If you want a wider weekly view, the best soccer bets this week board is also worth tracking.
Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland AFC Predictions and Best Bets
I lean Sunderland, but not quite enough to make the straight 3-way moneyline the best play. The +175 price is tempting, and I get why bettors would look there, but Forest’s recent form makes the draw a real threat. A 1-1 result would not surprise me at all.
That is why Sunderland draw no bet is the cleaner angle. It protects against the most natural game script, which is Sunderland controlling risk at home while Forest look dangerous in stretches but maybe lack enough healthy attacking width to take full control. I think Sunderland are slightly undervalued because the market is reacting strongly to Forest’s unbeaten run.
The total is trickier. The last results for both sides were goal-heavy, with Sunderland losing 4-3 and Forest winning 4-1, but this setup does not automatically scream open game. Forest may be cautious away from home, Sunderland’s home defensive record is strong, and the under is already juiced at -145. I prefer the side market rather than paying that kind of price on Under 2.5.
Both teams to score is live because Gibbs-White is in excellent form and Sunderland should create enough at home. Still, the best value is not there for me. I would rather back Sunderland to avoid defeat and give myself protection if this settles into a tight draw.
Best Bet: Sunderland AFC Draw No Bet (-105).
Premier League Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
Premier League betting boards can move quickly, especially late in the season when motivation changes from week to week. That is where today’s soccer picks can help bettors compare matchups, prices, and expert leans before kickoff.
ScoresAndStats also lets readers track top sports handicappers by performance, style, and long-term results. That is useful in soccer because not every handicapper attacks the market the same way. Some focus on totals, some lean into Asian handicaps, and others are stronger with props or underdog spots.
For more focused Premier League coverage, bettors can follow Premier League picks and compare experts through the handicapper leaderboard. If you want stronger positions beyond the free board, premium soccer picks are available for bettors who want expert plays with tracked records.
The Tampa Bay Lightning and Montreal Canadiens head to Bell Centre for Game 3 of their first-round playoff series on Friday, April 24, 2026, with puck drop set for 7:00 PM ET on TNT. The series is tied 1-1 after both teams split the first two games in Tampa, so this is the first real swing spot of the matchup.
Tampa Bay finished the regular season 50-32-0 under Jon Cooper and still has the offensive profile of a team that can win this series on talent. Montreal went 48-34-0 under Martin St. Louis and now gets the building change, which matters because Bell Centre can become a real momentum driver in playoff games.
The Lightning are slight road favorites at -116, while the Canadiens come back at -101. Tampa Bay is +208 on the -1.5 puck line, Montreal is -260 at +1.5, and the total is sitting at 5.5. The market is basically saying Tampa has the better top-end team, but not by much.
Go Inside the Handicappers’ Playbook
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Tampa Bay Lightning vs Montreal Canadiens Odds
These are the current betting lines for this matchup, and bettors should always monitor the latest NHL odds before locking in a play.
| Team | Moneyline | Puck Line | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tampa Bay Lightning | -116 | -1.5 (+208) | O 5.5 (-133) |
| Montreal Canadiens | -101 | +1.5 (-260) | U 5.5 (+108) |
Tampa Bay Lightning Betting Form
The Tampa Bay Lightning stats and results still show a team built around high-end finishing and puck movement. Tampa Bay ranked 4th in goals during the regular season and 2nd in assists, which is exactly why this team remains dangerous even when the matchup gets tight. Nikita Kucherov does not need many clean looks to shift a game, and Brandon Hagel has already been a real factor in this series.
The Game 2 win was important for Tampa because it steadied the series after Montreal grabbed the opener. Andrei Vasilevskiy made 25 saves on 27 shots, while Hagel, Kucherov, and J.J. Moser supplied the scoring in a 3-2 overtime win. Tampa also controlled overtime heavily, which matters from a betting perspective. It suggested the Lightning still have another gear when the game gets stretched.
The injury picture is the main hesitation. Victor Hedman is out for personal reasons, while Charle-Edouard D’Astous and Pontus Holmberg are also out. Losing Hedman changes Tampa’s transition game and blue-line stability, even if the forward group still has enough scoring punch. Monitor the Tampa Bay Lightning injury report before puck drop, because any additional defensive absence would make the Over more attractive but slightly weaken the moneyline case.
Montreal Canadiens Betting Form
The Montreal Canadiens schedule and stats make the home underdog angle pretty tempting. Montreal ranked 7th in goals during the regular season with 279, and its power play scored 56 times. That is enough offensive quality to punish Tampa if the Lightning take penalties, which already became a major storyline in Game 1.
The Canadiens also bring a physical defensive profile. They had the most blocks in the league with 1,331, and they showed that willingness again in Game 2 with 43 hits and 25 blocked shots. That kind of effort can keep playoff games close, especially with a loud home crowd behind them. Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield are still the primary offensive drivers, but Juraj Slafkovsky has already shown he can become a problem in this matchup.
The issue is availability. Noah Dobson is out with a thumb injury, and Patrik Laine is out with a lower-body injury. Those are not small losses, especially against a Tampa team that can expose thin depth if Montreal spends too much time defending. Keep an eye on the Montreal Canadiens injury report because the Canadiens need their remaining top forwards and defensemen to be close to full strength to justify a moneyline play.
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Montreal Canadiens Matchup Breakdown
This series has already given bettors two different looks. Game 1 went to Montreal in a 4-3 overtime result, fueled by power-play execution and Tampa’s penalties. Game 2 tightened up, with Tampa winning 3-2 in overtime and getting the better of the late-game push. So, yeah, the matchup is not one-dimensional.
At 5-on-5, Tampa probably has the cleaner offensive ceiling. Kucherov, Hagel, Jake Guentzel, Anthony Cirelli, and the rest of that top-six group give the Lightning several ways to create. Montreal can match stretches of pressure, but it may need more special-teams help to consistently trade chances with Tampa.
The special teams angle is where this gets tricky. Montreal’s power play already hurt Tampa in the opener, and the Canadiens have enough skill to make the Lightning pay again. But Tampa’s offensive structure is more consistent, and if Montreal gets trapped defending for long shifts, the Canadiens’ shot-blocking style can become more survival than control.
From a betting standpoint, this is a good game to think through with an NHL betting guide, because the market is tight and both sides have real arguments. Tampa has the stronger team profile. Montreal has home ice, physicality, and a live power play. The edge is small, but I still think it leans slightly toward the road favorite.
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Montreal Canadiens Predictions and Best Bets
I lean Tampa Bay on the moneyline at -116. It is not a runaway position, and I would not want this number getting much higher, but the Lightning have the better offensive core and the more proven playoff goaltender. Vasilevskiy has already settled into the series, and Tampa’s Game 2 finish was probably a better sign than the final score alone.
Montreal is absolutely live at home. The Canadiens can drag this into another one-goal game, especially if they keep blocking shots and forcing Tampa to play through traffic. But without Dobson and Laine, I need a slightly better price to make Montreal my preferred side. At nearly even money, I trust Tampa’s top-end scoring a little more.
The total is the more aggressive angle. The line is 5.5, and the Over is priced at -133. That is not cheap, but the matchup points that way. Tampa ranked 4th in goals, Montreal ranked 7th, and both teams have already shown they can score through special teams and late-game chaos. Even Game 2, which finished 3-2, was one overtime goal away from clearing this number.
I do respect Montreal’s shot-blocking and the playoff setting, so this is not a blind Over. Still, if Tampa’s power play gets chances and Montreal’s top line generates at home, a 4-3 type game is very much in play. The model projection also lands there, which makes the Over my preferred bet.
Best Bet: Over 5.5 (-133).
NHL Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
For bettors looking past this Game 3 matchup, ScoresAndStats has today’s NHL picks across the playoff board. That is useful right now because series adjustments are moving quickly, and the number you liked in Game 1 might not be the same value by Game 3.
The real advantage is being able to compare experts instead of relying on one opinion. The handicapper leaderboard gives bettors a clearer look at current form, long-term records, and profit, which helps separate real performance from short-term noise.
You can also review top sports handicappers, check more NHL game previews, or move into premium NHL picks when you want stronger card coverage. For playoff-specific markets, the Stanley Cup betting guide is also a useful way to think through series prices, futures, and game-to-game adjustments.
The Vegas Golden Knights and Utah Mammoth meet Friday night in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series at Delta Center, with puck drop set for 9:30 PM ET on TBS. The series is tied 1-1, so this is the first real pressure-point game. It is not must-win in the strict sense, but it does start to shape the series.
Vegas comes in at 1-1 in the postseason after finishing the regular season 39-43-0. Utah also sits at 1-1 after a 43-39-0 regular season, and the Mammoth now get the home-ice bump after answering back with a 3-2 win in Game 2.
The market is tight. Vegas is listed at -113 on the moneyline, while Utah is -105. The puck line has the Golden Knights -1.5 at +213 and the Mammoth +1.5 at -267, with the total sitting at 6.0. That pricing says exactly what the first two games have shown. There is not much separation here.
Go Inside the Handicappers’ Playbook
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Vegas Golden Knights vs Utah Mammoth Odds
These are the current betting lines for this matchup, and bettors should always monitor the latest NHL odds before locking in a play.
| Team | Moneyline | Puck Line | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vegas Golden Knights | -113 | -1.5 (+213) | O 6.0 (-101) |
| Utah Mammoth | -105 | +1.5 (-267) | U 6.0 (-119) |
Vegas Golden Knights Betting Form
The Vegas Golden Knights stats and results still give bettors a team with enough offensive profile to trust in a tight playoff spot. Vegas ranked 12th in goals during the regular season and 8th in shots on goal, so the process is not built only on finishing luck. They can create pressure, cycle pucks, and generate enough volume to put Utah under stress.
The power play is also a real part of the handicap. Vegas ranked 6th in power play goals with 58, and that matters in a series where one or two special-teams chances could flip the game. Mark Stone, Jack Eichel, and Mitchell Marner were involved in the recent 3-2 loss, and even though Vegas did not get the result, the top-end talent still showed up. I think that matters more than the final score alone.
The injury situation is not light, though. William Karlsson is out with a lower-body injury, Alex Pietrangelo is out for personal reasons, and Jonas Rondbjerg is also out. That hurts depth down the middle and on the back end. Bettors should monitor the Vegas Golden Knights injury report before puck drop because if the defensive structure is weakened again, the under becomes a bit less comfortable.
Utah Mammoth Betting Form
The Utah Mammoth schedule and stats make them more than just a home underdog story. Utah finished the regular season 43-39-0, ranked 10th in goals with 268, and had a top-10 goals-against profile. That balance is why this price is basically a coin flip instead of Vegas being a stronger road favorite.
Game 2 was important for Utah’s confidence. Dylan Guenther and Logan Cooley both scored, and Karel Vejmelka stopped 19 shots in the 3-2 win. It was not a dominant goaltending workload, but it was a clean enough performance in a playoff setting. Sometimes that is enough. Utah did a better job keeping Vegas from turning possession into repeated Grade-A looks.
The Mammoth do have Barrett Hayton out with an upper-body injury, which removes a useful piece from their forward group. The Utah Mammoth injury report should still be watched because Utah does not have endless depth if this series gets heavier and more physical. At home, though, with last change and a crowd behind them, the Mammoth have a real path to controlling matchups.
Vegas Golden Knights vs Utah Mammoth Matchup Breakdown
This matchup feels tight because both teams have clear paths, but neither path is risk-free. Vegas has the better power-play profile and probably the stronger top-end offensive names. Utah has home ice, a stronger defensive season-long profile, and enough scoring depth to make this uncomfortable.
The special teams angle leans slightly toward Vegas. If the Golden Knights get multiple power-play chances, that is where the game can tilt. Their man advantage has been one of the more bankable parts of their profile, and Utah cannot afford careless penalties in a game lined this close.
At 5-on-5, I see this as more balanced. Utah’s defense is not perfect, but the Mammoth ranked 10th in goals against and generally have enough structure to keep games from getting completely loose. Vegas ranked well in shot volume, so the question is whether Utah can keep those attempts outside and avoid second-chance rebounds.
For bettors using an NHL betting guide, this is the kind of game where price matters more than team reputation. Vegas has the brand-name edge, but Utah has the home setup and a defensive profile that supports the under. That makes the puck line less appealing than the moneyline or total.
Vegas Golden Knights vs Utah Mammoth Predictions and Best Bets
I lean Vegas on the moneyline at -113, but only slightly. This is not a spot where I want to overstate the edge. The Golden Knights have the better power-play profile, more proven offensive names, and they have been playing well enough recently to deserve a small favorite tag, even on the road.
Utah is dangerous because the Mammoth do not need to dominate to cash. They just need another tight, structured game where Vejmelka is steady and the young forwards finish one or two chances. At -105, Utah is not a bad price, but I think Vegas has a little more upside if this game opens up late.
The total at 6.0 points me toward the Under. Game 2 landed at five goals, and the projected style here still feels more controlled than wide open. Utah’s defensive profile is solid, Vegas is missing some important pieces, and playoff Game 3s often tighten up when both teams know the series lead is sitting right there.
The main concern with the Under is special teams. Vegas can punish penalties, and Utah has enough young skill to push the pace if it falls behind early. Still, with the under priced at -119 and the model projection sitting around 3-2, that is the cleaner betting angle for me.
Best Bet: Under 6.0 (-119).
NHL Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
For bettors building a full playoff card, ScoresAndStats has today’s NHL picks available across the schedule. That helps when multiple series are moving at the same time and the market is adjusting quickly from game to game.
The bigger advantage is being able to compare expert opinions instead of leaning on one angle. The handicapper leaderboard shows long-term performance, current form, and transparency, which matters when you are trying to separate real NHL betting results from short-term noise.
You can also compare top sports handicappers, check more NHL game previews, or move into premium NHL picks if you want stronger daily coverage. For playoff-specific markets, the Stanley Cup betting guide is a useful way to think through series pricing, futures value, and adjustment spots.
The Edmonton Oilers and Anaheim Ducks shift to Honda Center for Game 3 of their first-round NHL playoff series on Friday, April 24, 2026, with puck drop set for 10:00 PM ET on TNT. The series is tied 1-1, which makes this a pretty important swing game. Edmonton took Game 1 by a 4-3 score, then Anaheim answered with a 6-4 win in Game 2.
Edmonton enters with a 41-41-0 regular-season record after finishing 5th in the Western Conference and 2nd in the Pacific Division. Anaheim went 43-39-0, finishing 7th in the West and 3rd in the Pacific. The Ducks now get home ice, and that matters after a physical, high-event start to the series.
The market still has Edmonton favored at -131, while Anaheim comes back at +112. That tells you the Oilers are respected, but this is not priced like a mismatch anymore. Anaheim has already shown it can turn this series into a track meet, and that creates some interesting betting angles.
Go Inside the Handicappers’ Playbook
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Edmonton Oilers vs Anaheim Ducks Odds
These are the current betting lines for this matchup, and bettors should always monitor the latest NHL odds before locking in a play.
| Team | Moneyline | Puck Line | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edmonton Oilers | -131 | Not provided | O 6.5 (-159) |
| Anaheim Ducks | +112 | Not provided | U 6.5 (not provided) |
Edmonton Oilers Betting Form
The Edmonton Oilers stats and results still point to the same thing bettors have known all season. This team can score in bunches, and when Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are driving play, Edmonton is rarely out of a game. The Oilers ranked 6th in goals during the regular season with 282, and their power play finished 2nd with 68 goals. That is the clearest path to a road win here.
Game 2 was a little concerning, though. Edmonton scored four times and still lost by two. The power play also came up empty in key spots, which is not something bettors can just ignore with this team. The Oilers generate pressure, they ranked 4th in shots on goal during the regular season, and that shot volume gives them a high floor. But the defensive mistakes have been real. Their 21st-ranked goals-against profile makes the moneyline feel more fragile than the team name might suggest.
Injuries matter here, too. Jason Dickinson and Adam Henrique are questionable, while Mattias Janmark and Max Jones are out. That is not ideal for depth, especially in a series where Anaheim is pushing tempo and creating chances off turnovers. Monitor the Edmonton Oilers injury report before puck drop, because if the forward group is thinner than expected, it slightly lowers my confidence in Edmonton covering any aggressive puck-line number.
Anaheim Ducks Betting Form
The Anaheim Ducks schedule and stats make this underdog case interesting. Anaheim went 43-39-0 in the regular season, and the Ducks were strong enough at Honda Center to make this a live home spot. They also just scored six goals in Game 2, which should give this young group a real confidence bump.
Cutter Gauthier was excellent in that Game 2 win with two goals and an assist, and Alex Killorn also gave Anaheim a strong veteran presence with a goal and two assists. That mix matters. The Ducks have young skill, but they also need some steadiness in playoff moments. Leo Carlsson and Troy Terry have already made an impact in this series, and Anaheim’s ability to create off speed and pressure is what keeps them dangerous as a plus-money side.
The concern is still defensive consistency. Anaheim can create chances, but it also gives Edmonton too many looks when the game opens up. Radko Gudas and Ross Johnston are questionable, Jansen Harkins is out, and Petr Mrazek is out with a hip injury. The Anaheim Ducks injury report is worth checking because Gudas, in particular, would matter in a heavy matchup against Edmonton’s top forwards.
Edmonton Oilers vs Anaheim Ducks Matchup Breakdown
This matchup has not played like a slow playoff grind. The first two games produced seven and ten total goals, and both teams have found ways to create momentum swings. Edmonton has the higher-end offensive talent, but Anaheim has done a good job forcing chaotic stretches. That is not always how the Oilers want to play on the road, even if they have the stars to survive it.
The special teams angle is huge. Edmonton’s power play is one of the biggest reasons to trust the Oilers, but Anaheim won Game 2 partly because it won the special teams battle. The Ducks scored twice on the power play and added a short-handed goal. That changes the handicap a bit. If Edmonton does not clean that up, the favorite price becomes uncomfortable.
At 5-on-5, the Oilers should still have the edge in finishing talent. McDavid, Draisaitl, Zach Hyman, and Evan Bouchard give Edmonton more ways to tilt the ice. But Anaheim’s shot generation and takeaways make this more dangerous than a basic favorite-versus-underdog read. Bettors looking for a deeper framework can use an NHL betting guide to separate team quality from market price, because this series is a good example of why both things matter.
The goaltending edge is not crystal clear. Edmonton needs steadier defensive support around its net, while Anaheim needs Lukas Dostal to handle heavy volume again. I think the Ducks can hang around, but asking them to win another high-event game requires more trust than I have at this price. The side leans Edmonton, but the total might be the cleaner angle.
Edmonton Oilers vs Anaheim Ducks Predictions and Best Bets
I lean Edmonton on the moneyline at -131. It is not a huge bargain, and I would not chase this number too far, but the Oilers still have the better top-end talent and the more proven playoff scoring profile. When a series is tied 1-1 and the favorite has already shown it can generate chances in both games, I usually want the side with the better power play and the better elite forwards.
Anaheim is live, though. That part is important. The Ducks are at home, they have confidence after Game 2, and they are creating enough quality chances to make Edmonton sweat. If this moneyline moves much higher, the value gets thin fast. At -131, I can still justify Edmonton because the market has not priced them like a dominant road favorite.
The total is where the matchup feels more obvious. The number is 6.5, and the Over is expensive at -159, but the game script supports it. Edmonton’s offense is built to push pace. Anaheim has enough speed and shot creation to answer. Both defenses have shown cracks, and special teams have already produced meaningful swings in this series.
The only hesitation is price. Over 6.5 at -159 is not cheap, so bettors need to decide whether they are comfortable laying that kind of juice. From a pure projection standpoint, I get the Over. From a value standpoint, Edmonton moneyline is a little cleaner because the price is more manageable.
Best Bet: Edmonton Oilers moneyline (-131).
NHL Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
For bettors looking beyond this matchup, ScoresAndStats has daily today’s NHL picks across the board. That matters in the playoffs because every series starts to develop its own market personality. Some lines adjust quickly, and some take a game too long to catch up.
The value is not just the pick volume. It is the ability to compare experts, track long-term performance, and see who is actually producing results. The handicapper leaderboard gives bettors a clearer look at profit, consistency, and current form instead of just following a random hot take.
You can also compare top sports handicappers or move into premium NHL picks when you want stronger card coverage. For bettors trying to sharpen their playoff approach, the Stanley Cup betting guide is also a useful way to think about series prices, futures, and matchup adjustments.
