Welcome back to another NHL Predictions. Each day, our writers here at Last Word on Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then makes predictions based on how they might play out. Our featured game of this edition is the Florida Panthers taking on the Carolina Hurricanes. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025-26 season.
NHL Predictions
San Jose Sharks vs Detroit Red Wings
Head-to-Head: Sharks 0-1 Red Wings
Embed from Getty Images
How to Watch:
US TV: Fan Duel Sports Detroit; NBC Sports California; NHL Network
Canada TV: Sportsnet
Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)
We open up NHL predictions with the San Jose Sharks visiting the Detroit Red Wings. Yaroslav Askarov is likely to get the start after Alex Nedeljkovic got the call against the Washington Capitals on Thursday. San Jose is 7-3 in its previous 10 games, including a win over Washington on Thursday night. Macklin Celebrini is playing like a Hart Trophy candidate with 24 goals, 47 assists, and 71 points.
John Gibson is the expected starter for the Red Wings, who are going for the season sweep of the Sharks. Detroit is 6-3-1 in its last 10 games but did get shut out by the Boston Bruins last time out. Lucas Raymond is first in assists (35) and points (49) so far this campaign.
Both teams are playing well. However, Detroit gets the victory at home.
Prediction: Red Wings win 4-3.