If you’ve seen any of the NHL preseason coverage at any sports media outlet, you’ll see early season predictions for what will happen this upcoming season. A trusted voice in the hockey world with Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman has joined in on the predictions with his biggest one having to with the Ottawa Senators.
Friedman is known for being the league’s top insider and a very reliable source when it comes to information around the NHL. He has the reputation of being very knowledgeable about what’s going on in the league and it surprised many to see him side with the Senators as he predicted they will make the playoffs this upcoming season.
In the on-air segment, Friedman spoke to how big the trade Ottawa made for goaltender Linus Ullmark was and how he will play a big role in getting them to the postseason. The lineup will grow stronger with another year of development for Ottawa’s young players as well as using the key depth players they added in the offseason like Michael Amadio, David Perron and Nick Jensen.
On the Bet365 sportsbook, the Senators over/under in team points this season is listed at 90.5 which is higher than the Sabres, Flyers and Capitals. Ottawa’s odds to make the playoffs are just barely plus money at +110 and could make for a decent future bet but it won’t be easy.
The Panthers, Bruins and Maple Leafs will likely occupy the top three spots in the Atlantic Division which means Ottawa will need to bump out teams like the Lightning, Islanders, Capitals, Red Wings and Penguins for one of the two wild card spots.
I would take a wait and see approach with this bet as it could be a solid one but will need time as we will need to further examine the state of those other contending teams for the wild card playoff spots.