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Rickard Rakell has found success against the stingy Philadelphia Flyers this season, picking up a point in three of four meetings (playoffs included).
My Penguins vs. Flyers predictions see the top-line winger making his mark in Game 3 as Pittsburgh tries to make it a series.
Let’s break down my NHL picks for Wednesday, April 22.
The Pittsburgh Penguins have tilted the ice during Rickard Rakell’s 5-on-5 minutes.
They've controlled 66% of expected goals, 71% of scoring chances, and generated 33 shot attempts through two games with Rakell on the ice, the most of any Penguins forward.
He's also a focal point on the man advantage, where only Evgeni Malkin's had more ice time.
Rakell’s being used in prime offensive situations, and the Penguins are generating chances. Dan Vladar is unlikely to sustain a .954 SV%, and Rakell is a prime candidate to help break through.
Bryan Rust skates on the same line and power play unit as Rakell, so there is strong correlation there. There are also encouraging signs production could be coming.
Rust is tied for first in the series in high-danger chances, so I’m buying stock.
We’ll round out the parlay with Travis Sanheim blocks. The minute-munching defenseman blocked multiple shots in 73% of his home games following one day of rest, and his usage is predictably higher in the playoffs.
The Penguins will make a big push in Game 3, which should lead to plenty of block opportunities for the Philadelphia Flyers stalwart.
Rakell finished the regular season with seven goals over his final eight games. While he hasn’t found the net in this series, he leads the Penguins in expected goals at 5-on-5.
The vast majority of his shot volume comes from the slot and in, which is key. An in-form Vladar is unlikely to be beaten from range.
Puck line: Pittsburgh +1.5 (-270) | Philadelphia -1.5 (+210)
Rickard Rakell has points in three of four games against Philadelphia this season. Find more NHL betting trends for Penguins vs. Flyers.
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