- What: NHL Western Conference Playoffs First Round Game 1
- When: April 19, 2025
- Who: Colorado Avalanche vs. Dallas Stars
- Time: 5:30 p.m. PST
- Where: American Airlines Center (Dallas, TX)
The Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche will begin their first-round playoff series on Saturday at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. The puck drop is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. PST.
According to the latest odds from top NHL betting sites, the Avalanche are the slight favorites. The Stars aim to secure their third consecutive playoff victory against the Avalanche.
Still, they’ll need to contend with a team riding high on confidence, much like a student who aced an exam without studying.
Since February 26, the Avalanche have posted an impressive record of 16-5-2, showcasing the benefits of their recent roster changes.
They have a strong lineup down the middle with a depth that rivals the Pacific Ocean. New additions Charlie Coyle and Brock Nelson have made notable contributions since joining the team in Colorado.
In contrast, the Stars’ morale resembles that of someone who has faced significant life setbacks all at once.
Although a team’s fortunes can change rapidly—especially one that had the shortest Stanley Cup odds last week—the Stars are entering the playoffs with a disheartening seven-game losing streak, which is their longest in over a decade.
Head coach Peter DeBoer has acknowledged some responsibility, admitting he played it safe with players recovering from injuries.
However, it ultimately falls on the players to regroup and bounce back quickly. Unfortunately, I’m skeptical about their chances in Game 1, which has historically been challenging for Dallas.
The Stars arrive for Saturday’s matchup with a streak of seven consecutive losses in Game 1 of the playoff series.
Combined with their current struggles, that could spell trouble against a spirited Colorado team, which is also anticipating the return of captain Gabriel Landeskog.
Additionally, the Stars will be without key player Jason Robertson, who sustained an injury in the regular season finale.
I like the Avs to set the tone early and win this one in regulation at plus-money.
Best Bet: Avs to win in regulations at +110 odds
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Tony Reyes is a sports betting analyst and reporter for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X @TonyParlay.
