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NHLPreview
Wild vs Stars Prediction, Picks & Odds for Saturday’s NHL Playoffs Game 1
TL;DR
The Minnesota Wild face off against the Dallas Stars in Game 1 of the NHL playoffs on April 18. Predictions suggest the Wild may upset the Stars in this highly anticipated matchup.
Key points
- Minnesota Wild vs Dallas Stars in NHL playoffs
- Game 1 scheduled for April 18
- Matchup considered one of the best in Round 1
- Predictions favor Wild for an upset
Minnesota WildDallas Stars
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The opening-round series between the Minnesota Wild and Dallas Stars is arguably the best matchup of Round 1, and Game 1 between the Central Division powerhouses goes down at American Airlines Arena on Saturday, April 18.
My top Wild vs. Stars predictions and NHL picks call for Minny pulling off the upset to open the series.
Wild vs Stars Game 1 prediction
Wild vs Stars best bet: Wild moneyline (+105)
The Dallas Stars limped into the postseason with a 7-5-2 record, and just three of those wins came against postseason teams. More concerning, Dallas ranked 20th in expected goals percentage at five-on-five.
For comparison, the Minnesota Wild ranked fourth in xGF% at 5-on-5 during the same stretch.
As noted, Dallas will be without key center Roope Hintz, and No. 1 defenseman Miro Heiskanen (lower body) is likely to play at less than 100% after missing the final three games of the regular season and being deemed questionable for the series opener.
Stars No. 1 Jake Oettinger is also coming off his worst NHL season with a .899 save percentage and just 23.14 goals saved above expected across 54 starts.
Q&A
What date is Game 1 of the Wild vs Stars NHL playoffs?
Game 1 of the Wild vs Stars NHL playoffs is on April 18.
Where is the Wild vs Stars Game 1 being played?
The game is being played at American Airlines Arena.
What are the predictions for the Wild vs Stars Game 1?
Predictions indicate that the Minnesota Wild could upset the Dallas Stars in Game 1.
Which teams are competing in the NHL playoffs Round 1?
The teams competing in Round 1 include the Minnesota Wild and the Dallas Stars.
