Free Picks: Colorado Avalanche vs. St. Louis Blues

Out of the bubble and into their own homes, the Blues and Avalanche prepare to open the 2021 campaign. Having not played a meaningful game since the Summer of 2020, it will be interesting to see how these teams look opening night. This offseason has seen familiar faces depart and other stars find a new home. Both teams are projected to be top teams in their Conference.

It’s sad to say, but it’s time for the St. Louis Blues to move on from Alex Pietrangelo.

One of their best blueliners in recent years, Pietrangelo was a key member of the Blues’ success over the past couple of seasons.

Opening night without him won’t be easy as the Blues take on one of the best teams in the Conference.

Colorado comes into this season guns blazing. With players like Nathan MacKinnon, Gabriel Landeskog, and Mikko Rantanen ready to light up the scoresheet once again, the Avalanche are looking strong entering this season.

The Avs are one of the top teams in the league and betting markets see the talent level of this team. A potential threat to win the Stanley Cup (+700, 888Sport), Colorado will be a huge test for any team this season.

What makes me believe that Colorado takes this game on opening night is their depth. According to Daily Faceoff, the Avalanche own the best forward line in the league, the sixth-best second line in the NHL, and the 12th best third line. Even their fourth line is above average, ranking 10th in the entire league.

St. Louis is dealing with a number of key injuries – most notably Vladimir Tarasenko. I think the Blues’ defensive group is solid, especially since they brought in Torey Krug and their defensive rankings are relatively high compared to other teams in the NHL.

With that being said, I think Colorado’s offense will pour it on in this contest. It’s a new season, but the Avalanche have won the past three contests against the Blues and I think their winning ways continue.

• St. Louis are 2-7 SU in last 9 games.
• The Blues are 14-6 SU against Colorado in last 20.
• Colorado are 6-0 SU in last 6 games played on a Wednesday.
• The total has gone OVER in Colorado’s last 5 games at home.