At the onset of the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Canadiens entered as a distinct long shot. Montreal had the worst regular season record of any playoff team. But Canadiens general manager Marc Bergevin warned all that he built his team for the playoffs and not the regular season. Montreal shocked the world by upsetting heavily favored Toronto in the first round. And then steamrolled Winnipeg for an easy payout with the NHL betting odds. But their biggest challenge begins on Monday night. Vegas opened as a massive favorite in the third round over the Canadiens.
Montreal Canadiens vs. Vegas Golden Knights – Game 1 Betting Information
| Date and Time: | Monday, June 14, 2021, 9 p.m. ET |
|---|---|
| Location: | T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada |
| Canadiens vs. Golden Knights TV Coverage: | NBCSN |
| Team | Spread | Total | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canadiens | +1½ (-127) | 5½ (+110) | +220 |  |
| Golden Knights | -1½ (+107) | 5½ (-130) | -260 | |
| ||||
Montreal Canadiens at Vegas Golden Knights SBG Odds Overview
On this occasion, we see the effect of local Vegas gambling money. Sin City’s first major sports franchise is the Golden Knights. And Las Vegas took to their new team from day one. It helps that VGK has won from the start. As a result, the Golden Knights are often an expensive offshore betting choice. Especially at home. There is the perception that Vegas can’t be beat after their incredible series win over Colorado. Gamblers must exercise caution and get full value. Bargain hunters will seriously consider the Canadiens. Cause by their defying the odds and inviting price.
Montreal Canadiens Team Overview
Late on, the Canadiens are the hottest team on the board with seven consecutive wins. Four of their previous six tilts stayed under the total. Montreal ranks second in the NHL playoffs for the fewest goals allowed. Most important of all, the Habs rank first for the most money won in the postseason.
Montreal has demonstrated that hockey is two different sports. To illuminate regular season hockey features more skill and less grinding. Individual stars flourish more in the regular season. However, playoff hockey is an entirely different game. Postseason games are, more than anything else, about want. Is a team willing to do the gritty tasks for success? This means tight-checking, blocking shots, and sacrifice for the greater good. Thus far, no team epitomizes playoff hockey more than the Canadiens.
Of course, the foundation of a Stanley Cup champion is strong goaltending. Carey Price provides that with a .935 save percentage in the postseason.
Vegas Golden Knights Team Overview
Vegas has won five of their last seven games, including four in a row. While three of their previous five went under the total. So far, Vegas is the fourth most profitable team in the NHL Playoffs. VGK ranks 4th for goal scoring and 4th for goals allowed.
Last series, Vegas rallied for 0-2 down to take out the Colorado Avalanche in four consecutive games. Vegas showed more want and determination than the Avs. Colorado is fancy and skilled. But Vegas is deeper and willing to pay the price.
Namely, Marc Andre Fleury is the heart and soul of Vegas. He brings a .923 save percentage in the playoffs.
Montreal Canadiens at Vegas Golden Knights SBG Free Picks
In this situation, the Canadiens bring far better NHL betting value. Vegas is overpriced and could be in a letdown spot. Following their emotional win over powerful Colorado, it may take VGK time to refocus on pesky Montreal.
Canadiens at Golden Knights SBG Best Bet: Montreal Canadiens.