First, anyone betting on the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs should know a specific fact. The old saying that “there is nothing like playoff hockey” comes to mind. In fact, playoff hockey should be designated as an entirely different sport from regular season hockey. There is no comparison with the NHL betting odds. As an example, the Blues have dominated Minnesota in recent years during the regular season. But in the playoffs, the Wild are giving the Blues all they can handle. The opening round series between the Blues and Wild shifts to Minnesota on Tuesday.
2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs St. Louis Blues at Minnesota Wild Game 5
| Date and Time: | Tuesday, May 10, 2022, 9:30 p.m. ET |
|---|---|
| Location: | Xcel Energy Center, Saint Paul, Minnesota |
| TV Coverage: | ESPN |
| Team | Spread | Total | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blues | +1½ (-210) | 6½ (-105) | +120 |  |
| Wild | -1½ (+175) | 6½ (-115) | -140 | |
| ||||
SBG Odds Overview – Blues Falling Short of Wild Expectations
At the beginning of this series, the Blues were the solid offshore bookmaker favorites to eliminate Minnesota. And it was understandable as to why. St. Louis has owned the Wild in their rivalry over several years. Also, the Blues carry the credibility of having won the 2019 Stanley Cup championship. With that comes higher expectations (and prices) based on the popularity gained by such success. Minnesota hasn’t had a good playoff run in 18 years. Thus, gamblers have no expectations of the Wild.
In a series that has been far more competitive than expected, the Wild shows increased value. Sharps certainly like that hidden worth. Especially when a good team is on the road. But the Wild are gaining traction with the gambling masses. And the Blues are a proud championship franchise. Correspondingly St. Louis could be the team offering more value in game five.
A Flower Blossoms in Minnesota for Spring
Namely, Cam Talbot was firmly ensconced as the top Minnesota goaltender for 2021-22. Until the trade deadline, that is. Marc Andre Fleury was acquired at the trade deadline by Minnesota. And with that came a change in the dynamics. Initially, the Wild denied the Fleury would take the net from Talbot. But you don’t bring in a high-priced marquee goaltender like Fleury to have him ride the pine. Additionally, Fleury has unrivaled playoff experience and multiple Stanley Cup championship rings.
It has been a difficult 12 months for Fleury. Last year, he was splitting time with Robin Lehner in Vegas. Fleury was the marquee man of the 2017 expansion Golden Knights. But he never quite equaled his first season performance of leading the VGK to the Stanley Cup Final. So, he was traded to a terrible and rebuilding Blackhawks team in the summer. And he was able to escape to the Wild in time for the playoffs. Now Fleury is excelling in goal.
In Support of Flower Power
Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek have been key assets for Minnesota against the Blues. Kaprizov has four goals, one assist, and a plus-four. In comparison, Ericksson Ek adds three goals, two assists, and a plus-five.
Blues at Wild SBG Free Picks
On the whole, the Blues have been off their game for much of this series. St. Louis has failed to provide reliable value with the NHL lines. An electric sellout crowd will support Minnesota in game five. St. Louis will be pressing and gripping.
Blues at Wild SBG Best Bet: Minnesota Wild.