Wild vs Canadiens Picks and Prediction – 1/31/2025

On Thursday, the Minnesota Wild (29-17-4) face off against the Montreal Canadiens (24-20-5) at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Canada. Make sure you stay up to date with all the NHL action, with our expert NHL picks.

Montreal comes into this matchup on a two-game losing streak and has dropped three of their last five games prior to their game against Winnipeg. In a tight 4-3 overtime defeat against the New Jersey Devils, Juraj Slafkovsky made a notable contribution to the Montreal Canadiens by assisting on two goals. This season, Cole Caufield has emerged as Montreal's top goal-scorer, racking up an impressive 25 goals. Right behind him, Nick Suzuki holds the position of the team’s second-highest goal-scorer, with 15 goals so far. Suzuki is also leading the team in overall points, having accumulated a total of 50 points throughout the season. Lane Hutson stands out as the team's leading playmaker, contributing 36 assists to date. In the past five matches, the Canadiens have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 4.2 goals per game and currently occupy third-to-last place in the Atlantic Division standings. They are eager to break their losing streak and aim for their first victory against the Minnesota Wild this season. On average, the Canadiens net three goals per game.

Minnesota enters this game on a one-game winning streak, but has dropped three of their last five games prior to their game against Toronto. In their 4-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks, Matt Boldy played a crucial role for the Wild by contributing three assists. This season, Kirill Kaprizov is Minnesota's top goal scorer, having racked up 23 goals. Following closely, Matt Boldy ranks as the team's second-highest goal scorer with 18 goals to his name. Kaprizov not only leads the team in goals but also tops the list in total points, amassing 52 points this season. Additionally, he is the leading assist provider for the Wild, with a total of 29 assists. Over their last five games, the Wild have allowed an average of 3.6 goals per game. They are currently in third place in the Central Division standings and are aiming to extend their current winning streak with an upcoming road game against the Canadiens. On average, the Wild manage to score 2.9 goals per game.

In their most recent clash in mid-November, the Minnesota Wild emerged victorious over the Montreal Canadiens, 3-0. As they prepare for a rematch, this time on the Canadiens' home ice, the Wild are eager to replicate their previous success. While the Canadiens have shown strong performances in their own arena, the Wild have consistently displayed a commanding defensive presence in away games, setting the stage for an exciting contest. Give me the road team to avenge their previous loss to the Wild. Final Score Prediction, Montreal Canadiens win 4-1.