The NHL schedule for this week is not a busy one at all, thanks to the upcoming All-Star break. With only six competitive games on the schedule for the week before the league goes on break in South Florida, one would think that there might not be much to look forward to from a betting perspective. But there are some opportunities to wager on some exciting games this coming week, like these three that bettors should not take their eyes off of.

Tuesday: Kings vs. Hurricanes

On Tuesday, the Los Angeles Kings and Carolina Hurricanes will face off in a battle of teams with playoff aspirations. The Hurricanes enter this week at the top of the Metropolitan Division, though it is still unclear what is metropolitan about their franchise or location. Meanwhile, the Kings could move to the top of the Pacific Division if they come away with a win in this contest.

This could be a game where Carolina really makes a statement heading into the All-Star break, as they enter on a five-game winning streak. They have lost in regulation just five times at home this season, and will likely be the favorites in this NHL Network game. As long as they are not preoccupied with playing for a second straight night against Buffalo on Wednesday, Carolina is in a great place to get the job done here.

Tuesday: Capitals vs. Blue Jackets

Another game worth keeping an eye on from a betting perspective on Tuesday is the matchup between the Washington Capitals and Columbus Blue Jackets. On paper, this is a huge mismatch, as the Caps are sitting in one of the two Wild Card spots in the East while the Jackets sit at the very bottom of the East standings. However, this game could be closer than anticipated.

Washington has been a sub-.500 team on the road so far this season, going 12-12-3 outside of the nation’s capital. Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets are 11-15-1 at home, with the majority of their shortcomings this year stemming from their 4-17-2 road record. This could be a chance to get the Blue Jackets at an attractive plus price, despite the stats suggesting they could sneak away with a win here.

Wednesday: Bruins vs. Maple Leafs

Finally, the best game of the week in the NHL is set to take place on Wednesday between the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs. Boston has the best record in the NHL this season, going 38-7-5 through their first 50 games. Toronto sits 11 points behind them in second place in the Atlantic Division, as both teams look to make a statement in a potential postseason preview.

Boston enters this game on a three-game losing streak, as they lost their last outing to the Carolina Hurricanes. While a short losing streak like that is not cause for concern just yet, it could be a sign that the Bruins are at least beatable. If Toronto can send Boston into the break on a four-game slide, it would create some serious interest in the East the rest of the way.

NHL Betting Center

Get your Updated NHL Betting Odds here!