The quest for Lord Stanley's Cup is down to five teams, with Round 2 series reaching their climax.
The battle is on for what's often said to be the hardest trophy to win in professional sports, but only one can be crowned NHL champion in June.
Our hockey experts will deliver their NHL playoffs predictions and NHL picks for every game, every day from now until the Stanley Cup is presented.
NHL playoff predictions today for Monday, May 18
| Game | Best pick | Odds |
|---|---|---|
 MON vs.  BUF |
MON ML |
-105 |
Odds courtesy of Kalshi.
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Monday, May 18
Canadiens vs Sabres Game 7 prediction
7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN
Expert pick: Canadiens moneyline (-105 at Kalshi)
The Canadiens have shown great resilience during the playoffs, following up each loss with a win. I expect them to quickly flush Game 6. They hold the expected goals edge in this series – albeit not by much – and Jakub Dobes has been more consistent than Ukka-Pekka Luukkonen, making him a little more trustworthy in this do-or-die affair.
Check out Todd Cordell's full Canadiens vs. Sabres predictions!
Popular NHL prediction markets
The NHL is a prediction buffet — the key is picking the right market for your edge.
Futures: Not only can you trade on the team you think will win it all in the Stanley Cup odds, but you can also wager on Conn Smythe odds. The latter trophy is awarded to the player judged to be the best performer in the postseason, not just in the Stanley Cup Final
Game lines: The spread, moneyline, and total are the bread-and-butter once the playoffs begin. As the postseason rolls on and teams become more risk-averse, lines will get tighter and totals will drop, so traders can take advantage of swings throughout series one way or the other.
Props: NHL player props will still be going strong all the way until a potential Game 7 of the Cup Final. The most popular markets include anytime goalscorer, player points, assists, shots on goal, and goalie saves.
Same-game parlays: SGPs can be fun, but value varies. Compare the parlay payout to legs individually, and prioritize lines you’d play on their own.
Not intended for use in MA.
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