Sam Malinski is one of the most efficient point-producing defensemen in the NHL.
He’s walking into a bigger role with Cale Makar out of the lineup, which is why my Avalanche vs. Stars predictions see him finding the score sheet in this big divisional clash.
Let’s get into my NHL picks for Saturday, April 4.
Avalanche vs Stars prediction
Avalanche vs Stars best bet: Sam Malinski Over 0.5 points (+135)
Sam Malinski is scorching hot. He's piled up eight points over his last five games, headlined by a three-point performance in his last game — the first without superstar defenseman Cale Makar in the lineup.
He's more than capable of handling the added responsibility. Malinski ranks fifth among defensemen in points per 60 minutes of 5-on-5 play, trailing names like Evan Bouchard, Lane Hutson, and Zach Werenski. The uptick in usage during that game state will serve him well.
Perhaps more importantly, Malinski finds himself quarterbacking the top power play in Makar’s role. Wheels up.
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Avalanche vs Stars same-game parlay
Sticking with the theme of backing Colorado Avalanche blueliners sans Makar, Brent Burns is another prime target. He's generated multiple shots on target in nine of his last 10 games and attempted six shots in the first game without Makar.
On the Dallas Stars side, it’s all about Mikko Rantanen. He's assisted in nine of his past 10 following one day of rest and has picked up a helper in 75% of his appearances this season under those circumstances.
Oh, and the former Avalanche star has seven assists over his past four against Colorado. Talk about holding a grudge.
Avalanche vs Stars SGP
- Sam Malinski Over 0.5 points
- Brent Burns Over 1.5 shots
- Mikko Rantanen Over 0.5 assists
Avalanche vs Stars odds
- Moneyline: Avalanche -110 | Stars -110
- Puck Line: Avalanche +1.5 (-270) | Stars -1.5 (+215)
- Over/Under: Over 6.5 (+115) | Under 6.5 (-135)
Avalanche vs Stars trend
Brent Burns has cleared 1.5 shots in eight of his last nine games against Dallas. Find more NHL betting trends for Avalanche vs. Stars.
How to watch Avalanche vs Stars
| Location | American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX |
| Date | Saturday, April 4, 2026 |
| Puck drop | 3:00 p.m. ET |
| TV | ABC |
Avalanche vs Stars latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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