NHL Hockey 3 Days

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

NHL Playoff Betting & Projections

The focus across NHL betting markets this week centered heavily on playoff matchups, with projection models offering specific guidance ahead of key Game 2 contests. Sports Line’s model released favorable picks for the Buffalo Sabres over the Montreal Canadiens in their 2026 Stanley Cup playoff Game 2 matchup slated for Friday. This comes as analysts simultaneously provided Wednesday wagering insights, with Canadiens right wing Cole Caufield flagged as a top player prop bet target for the evening’s slate of games. Furthermore, bettors looking at Thursday’s action could find comprehensive recommendations, including props, when assessing games like the Philadelphia Flyers hosting the Carolina Hurricanes for Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinal, a contest where many viewed it as Philadelphia’s final realistic chance to make the series competitive.

Mid-Week Betting & Draft Lottery Fallout

Wednesday’s betting environment saw significant action across both the NBA and NHL playoffs, prompting bookmakers like Draft Kings to offer $100 in bonus bets for new users wagering on events including the NHL slate. The Sports Line Projection Model provided its consensus picks for Wednesday night, which featured major playoff showdowns alongside the Canadiens vs. Sabres tilt receiving expert attention. Separately, organizational news provided a forward-looking data point for the league, as the Toronto Maple Leafs secured the top selection following the conclusion of the NHL Draft lottery, offering long-term optimism despite the immediate playoff intensity.

Contextualizing Playoff Momentum

While NHL betting remained active, broader sports analysis this week placed significant attention on the NBA second round, where teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Detroit Pistons managed to establish 2-0 series leads over their respective opponents. Thursday’s slate reflected this NBA momentum, with betting guides concentrating heavily on the Pistons vs. Cavaliers and Thunder vs. Lakers Game 2 contests receiving top billing, setting the stage for continued high-stakes wagering across all major North American sports leagues heading into the weekend.