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This is The Weekly Line Change, where we highlight one Flames game a week and review betting odds offered by Play Alberta Sportsbook. This week, the Flames face off in a pivotal matchup for the basement of the NHL standings against the St. Louis Blues. The Flames rest firmly in 32nd overall with 10 points through 17 games, with the Blues holding a three-point lead and a game in hand. It’s a battle for the basement as the future of the Calgary Flames hangs in the balance at a meek game 18. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the lines.
Outrights
Currently, both teams are long shots to be the top team in their respective divisions by the end of the season. The Blues currently have 63.00 odds to win the Central division, with the Nashville Predators offering the worst odds at 230.00, and the Colorado Avalanche as early favourites at 1.50. The Blues may be a longshot but, but the Flames…
Well, if Murray Edwards is reading this, he might be interested in putting some money down. The Flames have the worst odds to win their respective division across the entire league at 400.00. The San Jose Sharks have slightly better odds at 375.00, while the Vegas Golden Knights lead the way at 1.85. Not looking great for the home team.
If you’re looking to bet any Flames outrights for player awards, now could also be the time. Dustin Wolf offers 78.00 to win the Vezina after the team’s abysmal start. Despite Calder odds still on the shelf, Zayne Parekh and Mackenzie Weegar are tied with Norris odds at 525.00. Mikael Backlund leads the team in Selke odds at 100.00, and somehow Ryan Huska has the 17th overall best odds to win the Jack Adams at 27.00. For reference, Rod Brind Amour has 46.00 odd,s and the Carolina Hurricanes are in second place in the Metropolitan division and are favourites to win it at 1.66.
Game Lines
The Blues open Tuesday as favourites with 1.67 odds while the Flames offer a 2.27 return as underdogs. The Blues hold a -1.5 goal spread, but expect that line to shift as it’s currently sitting at hot odds of 2.53 to open the day. If you’re considering an alternative Pro-Flames spread, Calgary to cover -1.5 is currently 3.60. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Blues to cover -2.5 sits at 4.24. With both teams up and down lately, this game will be particularly hard to judge. It’s more likely a defensive collapse than an offensive outburst for either team.
As far as the standings are concerned, these two teams should offer a relatively close matchup. Overtime could be something to consider, offering a 3.82 return.
The Total Goals Over/Under is set at 5.5 with 1.76 and 1.99 odds, respectively. The Blues are averaging 2.4 goals/game over their last five, but have scored at least three in their previous two games. The Flames have scored 1.8 goals/game over their last five, but haven’t scored a goal in six periods. If you’re considering an alternative Total Goals line, Under 4.5 and Under 3.5 offer solid odds at 3.53 and 5.25, respectively. Odds of a goal in the first 10 Minutes of the game also sit at a reasonable line, with yes at 1.65, and no at 2.06. These are difficult to judge, but look for the Flames to come out hungry, whatever that results in has been up for question.
However you approach the lines this week, just remember to try and enjoy the game. Silver linings will be few and far between this season, Flames fans.
Gamble Responsibly
This publication is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute betting advice or a solicitation to gamble. The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and are not affiliated with, or endorsed by, Play Alberta or Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC). Neither The Win Column Sports and Entertainment Corporation nor its owned and operated domains are affiliated with Play Alberta or AGLC. Please gamble responsibly and only with licensed operators in your jurisdiction. For support, contact Alberta’s toll-free gambling helpline at 1–866–332–2322 or visit GameSense.ca.
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