The Detroit Red Wings host the Pittsburgh Penguins in a rematch of their game just two days prior.
Pittsburgh won that first game 4-3, and my Penguins vs. Red Wings predictions expect a similar result this time around.
Read on for my NHL picks for Saturday, January 3.
Penguins vs Red Wings prediction
Penguins vs Red Wings best bet: Over 6.5 (+100)
These teams typically produce high-scoring games when they meet, with seven or more total goals scored in nine of the past 12 matchups. That trend is likely to continue Saturday, given that both teams combined for seven goals in their meeting two days ago.
Both offenses have been excellent this season, with each ranking in the top 10 in the league in expected goals for per 60 minutes (xGF/60). Meanwhile, neither projected starting goaltender has fared well.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are expected to start Stuart Skinner, who carries a .888 save percentage into this matchup. On the other end of the ice, John Gibson is slated to start for the Detroit Red Wings.
Like Skinner, Gibson brings a sub-.900 save percentage into this meeting.
With poor goaltending and inconsistent defensive play, both teams rank in the bottom half of the league in goals allowed per game. Considering those variables, there is little reason to believe this game will play out much differently than the 4-3 result from a few days ago.
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Penguins vs Red Wings same-game parlay
Both teams will likely need goal production for the over to cash, and there may not be two stronger candidates than Sidney Crosby and Alex DeBrincat. Crosby leads Pittsburgh in goals this season, while DeBrincat co-leads Detroit in the same category.
In fact, both players scored in the Penguins’ 4-3 win over the Red Wings a few days ago.
Penguins vs Red Wings SGP
- Over 6.5
- Crosby to score
- DeBrincat to score
Penguins vs Red Wings odds
- Moneyline: Penguins +125 | Red Wings -150
- Puck Line: Penguins +1.5 (-205) | Red Wings -1.5 (+170)
- Over/Under: Over Over 6.5 (+100) | Under Under 6.5 (-120)
Penguins vs Red Wings trend
The over has cashed in eight of the past 10 meetings between these two teams. Find more NHL betting trends for Penguins vs. Red Wings.
How to watch Penguins vs Red Wings
| Location | Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI |
| Date | Saturday, January 3, 2026 |
| Puck drop | 12:00 p.m. ET |
| TV | ABC |
Penguins vs Red Wings 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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