Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NHL match.
The San Jose Sharks are focusing this season on the development of young players, which is reflected in their results. They rarely win but show positive progress in their play. Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche aim to solidify their place in the playoff zone, and this away series offers a good opportunity to secure vital points, especially against a lower-ranked team.
San Jose Sharks
The Sharks have lost five of their last six matches but performed quite well against the Utah Hockey Club (3:4) and Winnipeg Jets (3:4). Their main issue remains their defence, conceding an average of 3.59 goals per game, which is among the worst in the NHL. On home ice, the Sharks have made at least three costly errors in seven of their last eight games. Goaltenders Alexandar Georgiev (87.3% save percentage) and Vitek Vanecek (88.5%) alternate, but they have yet to find consistency.
Colorado Avalanche
The Avalanche are in better form, having won four of their previous six encounters. They excel in attack, matching up with the league leaders, averaging 3.27 goals per game. With Nathan MacKinnon (50 points) and Mikko Rantanen (47), who are at the top of the league's scoring race, they are formidable. On the road, the Avalanche have been impressive, scoring at least three goals in five of their last seven away games. In head-to-head matchups, they have defeated the San Jose Sharks 10 times in a row, scoring at least three goals in nine of those games.
San Jose Sharks vs Colorado Avalanche Prediction
Despite some improvements in the San Jose Sharks' play, with three goals in their last three games, the Colorado Avalanche appear to be the stronger, more prepared team. They have a superior roster and higher motivation, given their fight for a playoff spot. Moreover, their record against the Sharks has always been dominant, and this trend is likely to continue. Therefore, we're opting for an interesting combo bet.
