The first-round playoff clash in the Stanley Cup between the St. Louis Blues and the Winnipeg Jets will take place on April 25 at the Enterprise Center. The series score is 2-0 in favor of Winnipeg. St. Louis vs. Winnipeg: prediction and betting odds, statistics.
St. Louis Blues
Jim Montgomery's team lost the second away game of the series (1-2). The only goal was scored in a power play just seconds before the end of the first period by Jimmy Snuggerud. Notably, St. Louis is among the teams with the best power-play conversion rate in these playoffs (42.9%). However, they are also one of the most conceding teams, allowing seven goals.
- St. Louis has scored at least two goals in regular time in their last six home NHL meetings.
- The club has won their last 12 home games in the league (3 in OT).
- At least six goals have been scored in regular time in 6 of St. Louis's last 9 NHL games.
Winnipeg Jets
The team extended their series lead by securing their third consecutive championship win at home. Mark Scheifele was the top scorer for Winnipeg, contributing to both goals (1+1). Currently, in this Stanley Cup run, the club has one of the lowest penalty-killing rates (57.1%). However, having scored seven goals in this series, they are among the highest-scoring teams in the current playoffs.
- Winnipeg has scored at least three goals in regular time in 7 of their last 8 NHL meetings at St. Louis.
- The team has not won after three periods in 7 of their last 9 away league games (3 draws, 4 losses).
- No more than five goals were scored in regular time in 4 of St. Louis's last 5 away NHL games.
St. Louis vs. Winnipeg: Match Prediction
I believe with the series moving to St. Louis, the hosts will have a chance to respond to the two losses in the series. Jim Montgomery's team is not clearly outplayed in terms of game strategy, and they have a convincing home record. St. Louis finished the regular season with a 12-game winning streak (3 in OT), not losing since late February. Winnipeg, on the other hand, lacks consistency in away games and has not won after 60 minutes in 7 of their last 9 NHL matches (3 draws, 4 losses).
In the last game, St. Louis was close to making a comeback, and now home advantage should help them achieve their goal and try to turn the series around. In this season, as hosts, they have not lost to the opponent by more than two goals, once taking the game beyond regular time. Considering their recent home game statistics, I think this time the victory should be even closer, even if it takes more than 60 minutes.
My prediction: St. Louis Blues to win the match
