The Nashville Predators (19-16-0) and Detroit Red Wings (16-15-4) will clash for the first time this season on Friday, December 29 at 7:00 PM ET for an appealing NHL betting prospect. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook currently has this as a coin flip, with the moneyline for both teams at -110.
When: December 29, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET
Where: Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan
Watch: NHLPP|ESPN+
Nashville Predators Preview
The Predators have lost their last two games and need to quickly recover before it gets any worse. Their most recent defeat was a 5-2 showing against the Carolina Hurricanes, where they gave up five goals before the start of the third period.
Their recent struggles show that they have gone 2-3 over their last five. Thankfully, they still have Filip Forsberg who leads their offense and can help turn things around while adding to his 38 points, 16 goals, and 22 assists.
The Predators have been solid when it comes to scoring, as they will not knock your socks off. They currently average 3.09 goals and fire off 30.0 shots to make it work. For power play performances, they have made 26 goals and allowed 28 total, making their percentage come in at 20.6.
Defensively, the Predators continue to slip behind and allow 3.11 goals per game while opponents take 30.8 shots. At this rate, they essentially cancel out their progress on the ice offensively and make it difficult to get ahead.
Detroit Red Wings Preview
The Red Wings have been one of the more volatile teams in the league when it comes to scoring. They have gone 1-4 in their last five games, with their only victory in that stretch being a 7-6 shootout against the Philadelphia Flyers. They are currently on a two-game losing skid and must capitalize at home.
Alex DeBrincat is comparable to Forsberg in leading the offense for the Red Wings, as he currently has 34 points and 16 goals. Shayne Gostisbehere is their leader in assists with 19, making them a tough duo offensively.
The Red Wings are averaging 3.51 goals while taking 30.1 shots each game. Their aggressive offense has typically allowed them to stay close within games. During power plays, they have scored 31 times and allowed 25, with a percentage at 22.0.
On defense, they have allowed 3.40 goals and 32.1 shots from opposing teams. This has been their downfall this season and the biggest reason why they are clinging to a .500 record. If the Red Wings cannot defend here, this will be another missed opportunity against a team they have the potential to defeat.
Betting Odds
ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook offers compelling NHL wagering options. Currently, both teams are favored to win, with market insights giving the Detroit Red Wings the slightest edge at home.
Nashville Predators: -110
Detroit Red Wings: -110
Total Goals: Over 6.5 (-115), Under 6.5 (-105)
Photo Credit: © Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports