Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Arizona Coyotes – As we approach the midweek clash in the NHL regular season, the Toronto Maple Leafs (29-16-8) are set to face off against the Arizona Coyotes (23-26-4) in what promises to be a gripping contest. This game, taking place on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at Mullett Arena and airing on ESPN+, holds significant interest for bettors and fans alike, keen on making the latest NHL picks. The Maple Leafs, despite their superior record, come into this game on a surprising slump, while the Coyotes look to capitalize at home and upset the odds.
Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Arizona Coyotes
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 10:00 PM ET
Location: Mullett Arena
TV: ESPN+
Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Arizona Coyotes Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Puckline | Total |
| Maple Leafs | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Coyotes | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Toronto Maple Leafs Analysis
The Maple Leafs enter this matchup struggling, going 0-5 in their last five games. However, Toronto still possesses a potent offense led by center Auston Matthews and his team-best 48 goals. Matthews excels on the powerplay with 13 goals, while William Nylander (28 goals) and Mitchell Marner (22 goals) provide secondary scoring. Still, Toronto averages just 2.77 goals during their five-game slide. They now face Arizona’s defense which allows the fourth-most goals per game (3.53). If Toronto’s offense can regain its rhythm, it should exploit the Coyotes’ porous defense.
In goal, Ilya Samsonov has a 3.25 GAA across 23 starts. He will be tested often by Arizona’s 33.7 shots per game, seventh-most in the NHL. During Toronto’s losing streak, opponents have exceeded three goals four times so solid goaltending from Samsonov is paramount to snap that skid.
Arizona Coyotes Analysis
While Arizona is 2-3 over its past five, right winger Clayton Keller has continued producing with 21 goals and 28 assists. Keller leads the team in points (49) while Nick Schmaltz ranks second with 31. The Coyotes average just 2.65 goals per game though, 24th in the league. Facing Toronto’s seventh-ranked defense will prove challenging, even for Keller. Arizon’a struggling power play could also hinder its scoring. They convert just 19.2% with the man advantage.
In net, Karel Vejmelka has recorded a lackluster .896 save percentage across 24 starts. Like Samsonov, Vejmelka has allowed three-plus goals in four of his past five games. Now he draws a Maple Leafs offense that leads the NHL with 3.56 goals per game. Vejmelka will need a standout performance for Arizona to have upset hopes in this home contest.
Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Arizona Coyotes Against the Spread
The Maple Leafs have struggled against the spread recently going 0-5 ATS in their last 5 contests. That streak aligns with their 5-game losing skid so bettors may be able to buy low and back Toronto.
On the road, Toronto is just 8-16 ATS but they could see that trend reverse against the lowly Coyotes. As for Arizona, they are 3-2 ATS in their previous 5 games but still have a losing 14-12 home ATS record this season. Based on team trajectory, the Maple Leafs appear to offer more value to cover the puckline in this matchup.
Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Arizona Coyotes Free Pick
Based on trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: The Maple Leafs moneyline offers value. Toronto boasts far more offensive firepower than Arizona and has motivation to snap a five-game slide. Backing the superior team on the road seems prudent.
Spread: Lay the puckline with the Maple Leafs. Arizona allows the fourth-most goals per game while Toronto averages the most. Even if the Maple Leafs offense stays cold, their defense can contain the Coyotes attack. Trust Toronto’s talent edge to cover.
Total: Over. Both teams have trends favoring the OVER, with the Maple Leafs’ potent offense and the Coyotes’ defensive struggles contributing to potentially another high-scoring game.
Predicted Score: Toronto Maple Leafs 3, Arizona Coyotes 1
Toronto’s offense should overpower an inferior Coyotes team, leading to a multi-goal win to cover the spread. Additionally, by backing the Over on the total, bettors can expect the Maple Leafs to tally enough goals to hit the Over regardless of Arizona’s offensive contributions. Check the reliable Canadian best sportsbook for the latest odds and get your action down on the Maple Leafs.
