Flames vs Red Wings odds - Calgary's big trades all for naught
Flames vs Red Wings odds should have NHL betting fans drooling, as this matchup pits two Stanley Cup contenders against each other. Detroit and Calgary have been quite formidable this season, sitting second and third in the Western Conference, respectively. Both teams are desperate for a win, though, as Chicago is nipping at Calgary’s heels and Detroit wants a shot at first place.
Flames vs Red Wings odds - Thursday at 7:00 p.m. ET
- Red Wings battling for conference supremacy
- Detroit’s goaltending has been suspect lately
- Calgary a disappointing 1-3 since trade deadline
The Red Wings have been simply dominant this season, as only the San Jose Sharks have been able to keep pace with them. In most seasons, Detroit would win its conference in a landslide, but right now it’s fighting for first-place overall. The Wings have won seven of their last 10 games although, interestingly, they were completely blown out in two of their three losses (losing to Nashville and Columbus a combined 16-2).
That highlights arguably the only chink in Detroit’s armor: goaltending. You have to love Detroit’s chances on Stanley Cup odds, but the duo of Chris Osgood and Ty Conklin doesn’t exactly put the fear of God into opposing scorers. At least Osgood has three Cups to his name, with two coming as a starter. The Wings got 23 saves out of Conklin in a 3-2 overtime win against Phoenix on Tuesday.
Calgary, meanwhile, is floundering, having dropped three straight games. There was plenty of reason for excitement at the trade deadline, as the Flames acquired Olli Jokinen and Jordan Leopold. Both players made a big impact in their first games as Flames, combining for three goals in a 5-1 win over Philly. But Calgary hasn’t won since, leaving many fans already doubting their offshore sportsbook odds come playoff time.
The offense has dried up for the Flames, as they’ve potted just five goals during their three-game losing streak. Certainly, much more is expected out of this lineup, especially now that Jokinen (24 goals this season) has joined the fold.
Perhaps Detroit’s questionable goaltending is just what the doctor ordered for Calgary’s faltering scorers. What they don’t need, however, is another road game. Flames vs Red Wings odds marks Calgary’s sixth straight road game, while the Wings are enjoying a three-game homestand. Calgary needs a slump buster, but it’s not going to get it against a team it’s already 0-2 against this season. Bet on Detroit.
For Flames vs Red Wings odds and other great sports betting lines, check out the BetOnline.com sportsbook.
Who better to offer great sports betting and hockey tips than a native Canadian? Like any good Canuck, Don Melrose eats, sleeps, breathes and bets hockey, making him the perfect NHL handicapper. Thoughts or questions? Email Comments@BetOnline.com.
