Boston Bruins at Philadelphia Flyers Betting Preview

Two of the NHL’s top teams are set to square off Wednesday night as the Boston Bruins (6-1-2) take on the Philadelphia Flyers (7-2-1). Their game will be the second game of an NBCSN Wednesday Night Doubleheader, with puck drop scheduled at 8:00 P.M. Eastern.

Boston is 5-0-1 in their last six games, while Philadelphia has won each of its previous four contests. The Bruins beat the Flyers 5-4 (SO) and 6-1 in their previous two meetings this year. As a result, the Bruins enter as favorites at (-136). The underdog Flyers are (+118).

Boston Bruins Preview

David Pastrnak underwent surgery in the offseason and missed the first few games, but since returning to the ice, the dynamic winger has two goals and an assist in two games. While his return gives the Bruins offense extra bite, Boston has held their own in his absence.

The Bruins average 3.11 goals per game, slightly above the middle of the pack. Their defense as a team has been excellent as usual, allowing 2.22 goals per game, the third-best total in the league.

Boston’s success starts with their play in net. Tuukka Rask figures to be the starter Wednesday night. Rask has a 3-1-1 record this season with a 2.49 GAA and a .890 save percentage. While Rask has not played at his usual level so far, backup Jaroslav Halak has been excellent, posting a 3-0-1 record, 1.72 GAA, and .923 save percentage. When both are on their game, they make up arguably the best goaltending tandem in the league.

Nick Ritchie stepped up in Pastrnak’s absence with four goals and four assists. He is currently on the second line with David Krejci and Craig Smith, which could allow for more favorable matchups on offensive zone starts.

Philadelphia Flyers Preview

Sean Couturier, the 2020 Selke Trophy winner as the league’s best defensive forward, is still expected to miss another 7-10 days while recovering from a rib injury. His absence has left a noticeable hole in the lineup, particularly on the penalty kill. Philadelphia has killed off 75.7% of their penalties this season, eighth-worst in the league. Last season, the Flyers killed 81.8%.

Fortunately for Philadelphia, the offense has picked up the slack. James van Riemsdyk is almost halfway to his assist total from last season. Kevin Hayes, Travis Konecny, and van Riemsdyk are tied for the team lead with five goals.

Carter Hart has struggled early on this season, but he has won each of his last two starts. On the year he has a 4-2-1 record, a 3.34 GAA, and a .900 save percentage. Hart is projected to get the nod in net Wednesday.

The Pick is In

Given the recent history between the two, conventional wisdom says to take the Bruins. Despite me thinking the Flyers are out to get revenge on Wednesday night, and even there being solid betting value with the first-place team in the East Division as an underdog, the Bruins have looked incredible as of late.

With both Flyers goaltenders being shaky at times, I think Bruins will continue to dominate and take down the Flyers with their strong defense and consistent offense. Free Pick: Boston Bruins (-137).

Keep up with the NHL season with the Dunkel Index selection of picks.