We’re all trying to figure out who’s going to advance in the NHL playoffs. Invariably, there are some upsets in round one and it’s better to be on the winning side of the NHL odds ledger. I’ve circled one matchup as a possible contender for such an upset. The amazing thing is that if you told anyone back in October which team was favored their jaw would probably drop.
2018 NHL Playoffs Betting
The Los Angeles Kings, baby!
Yes, the Vegas Golden Knights have had a brilliant year. General Manager George McPhee has been methodical and patient in building this squad. The Knights have defied everyone en route to a magical playoff season in their first campaign. And while they do have veterans with playoff savvy like Marc-Andre Fleury, James Neal and David Perron, many others will undoubtedly be clutching their sticks a little too tightly in the first round.
Currently, the Kings are +110 to against Vegas to win the series. That’s not a big number for a #2 seed versus a #7 seed. The reason? Several players on the Kings have two Stanley Cup rings. It starts with Anze Kopitar, an MVP candidate this season. He has been as solid as any center in the league all year. Meanwhile, the resurgent Dustin Brown has refreshed his career and returned the Kings to contender status. Throw in an unflappable Jonathan Quick in nets and you have the makings of a tough, close NHL playoff series.
I’m already on record as picking the Golden Knights in seven games. But that simply means that the Kings have a decent chance. In fact, I’m starting to sell myself on Los Angeles even having the upper hand. In fact, I’m sure a ton of Kings fans will make the nearby trek to Vegas and support their team for all four road games.
While there are other lower seeds who could win a first round matchup, to me this one is the most fun because of the newness of the Knights versus the old guard of the Kings.
Matthew Ross is a sports commentator and a radio host on TSN 690 Radio in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. He’s also a contributor to ESPN 101.3 Plattsburgh/Burlington. Follow him @MatthewWords.