Arizona Coyotes (15-13-2) vs. San Jose Sharks (9-19-3)
As the NHL season moves forward, Arizona Coyotes and San Jose Sharks prepare to meet in an important matchup. Currently rated 15-13-2, the Coyotes have shown both resilience and vulnerability this season while the Sharks, with their 9-19-3 record, have struggled for consistency throughout. Due to take place Thursday December 21, 2023 at SAP Center at San Jose this game has drawn considerable interest among hockey expert picks; fans and analysts alike are keenly watching how both teams perform under prime-time conditions on ESPN+.
Clayton Keller leads Arizona’s offense with 10 goals and 16 assists through 30 games this season, but his -13 plus/minus rating betrays some defensive vulnerabilities. Matias Maccelli and Nick Schmaltz have also played key roles for Arizona offensively; Maccelli brings balance while Schmaltz excels on power plays – not to mention an outstanding power play performance by Arizona on Wednesday against goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood’s Sharks defense, featuring an 0.897 save percentage which may present opportunities for Arizona to exploit against Mackenzie Blackwood-anchored Sharks defense led by goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood who could potentially exploited by Arizona on Wednesday.
Conversely, San Jose’s offense is led by center Tomas Hertl, who has provided 11 goals and 15 assists over 30 games for San Jose. While his -16 plus/minus rating may be cause for concern, his ability to find the back of the net cannot be denied. Mikael Granlund and William Eklund also play key roles in their offensive scheme against Arizona goaltender Connor Ingram’s formidable 2.41 GAA save percentage performance against their attack will be key.
Arizona Coyotes vs. San Jose Sharks Game Info
| When: | Thursday, December 21, 2023, at 10:30 PM ET |
| Where: | SAP Center at San Jose |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Connor Ingram vs. Goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood
Connor Ingram has been an outstanding goaltender for the Coyotes this season. His ability to make key saves and remain calm under pressure will be crucial against an unpredictable Sharks team like San Jose that still poses an offensive threat despite their struggles. Hertl, Granlund and Eklund will put Ingram’s consistency and resilience to the test.
Mackenzie Blackwood‘s season for the Sharks has been far less consistent. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, his overall performance has not been up to par with that of Ingram’s. For their chances against Keller, Maccelli, and Schmaltz to stand any chance, Blackwood must significantly step up his game; his battles will play an essential part in deciding its outcome.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Betting odds for this match-up have yet to be set, though given current standings and performances it appears likely that the Coyotes might be the favorite team. Bettors should keep tabs on odds as they become available in order to make informed decisions when placing their bets.
Arizona Coyotes Betting Trends
The Coyotes have performed consistently against the spread in recent road games, especially since finding their net consistently could provide bettors with an advantageous trend; however, their inconsistent performances over the last few games warrant caution from bettors.
San Jose Sharks Betting Trends
The Sharks have struggled both generally and against the spread. Their home game performance hasn’t inspired much faith either, which may continue against the Coyotes. Bettors should take into account factors like defensive weaknesses and goaltender form when betting against this team.
Arizona Coyotes vs. San Jose Sharks 12/21/23 Betting Picks
Based on statistics and recent form, it appears as if the Coyotes hold an advantage in this contest. Their increased offense coupled with Ingram’s excellent goaltending give them an edge over their counterparts from San Jose; however, any outcome remains unpredictable and home advantage could help the Sharks pull ahead.
When it comes to picking the winner of any given NHL matchup, the Coyotes seem like a safer bet. Prop bets involving over/under numbers might prove exciting with both teams showing recent trends of going over. Bettors might also want to consider individual performance bets on Keller and Hertl who have both been reliable scorers for their respective teams – just make sure that you use the best sportsbooks for up-to-date odds and betting options!
