NHL Hockey 24 Hours

Last updated: May 5, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Stanley Cup Playoffs Betting & Picks

As the Stanley Cup Playoffs advance into the second round, betting markets are sharpening focus on key matchups, with the Avalanche facing the Wild in the Western Conference. Sports Line’s projection model is favoring another victory for Colorado in Game, though analysts caution against expecting a repeat of the high-scoring affair from the opening contest, predicting fewer than 15 total goals scored this time around. Meanwhile, in the Eastern Conference, analyst Scott Erskine provided an overview of the second-round clash pitting the Sabres against the Canadiens, offering insights into futures odds for that series. For individual player wagers ahead of Tuesday's slate, analyst Scott Erskine specifically pointed to Wild left wing Matt Boldy as one of the best prop bets available for the evening's action, tying into broader recommendations from the Sports Line Projection Model that cover major NBA playoff games as well like the Thunder-Lakers Game.

NHL Draft Lottery & Off-Ice News

Beyond the current postseason battles, the future talent pool takes center stage Tuesday night as the NHL Draft lottery convenes in New Jersey, with the winner gaining access to top prospect Gavin McKenna. McKenna, a highly touted forward from Penn State, is viewed as the premier prize available in this year's selection process. Separately, unrelated league activity saw the Wolves overcome a massive defensive effort from Victor Wembanyama, who recorded 12 blocks, with Anthony Edwards making a surprise return to the lineup.