Stanley Cup playoffs betting: Bruins vs. Maple Leafs Game 3 odds, preview, prediction for Wed. 4/24

Bruins vs. Maple Leafs Odds

Wednesday, April 24, 7 p.m. ET, ESPN

Odds via bet365. Get up-to-the-minute NHL odds here.

Boston Bruins

The Bruins have had a season of ups and downs, particularly on offense, where they rank 24th in Corsi percentage.

However, Boston’s knack for creating quality chances shines through with a ranking of eighth in high-danger chances, despite only ranking 15th in power play goals. This ability to generate critical opportunities may be crucial against a Leafs defense that's shown vulnerabilities.

The question is: Will the Bruins be able to take advantage on the eventual man advantage that comes their way?

Defensively, Boston is middle of the pack, with an 18th rank in expected goals against and a ranking of 20th in defending high-danger chances. That might expose it to Toronto’s potent scorers like Auston Matthews and William Nylander — who might be back for Game 3.

Bruins starting goalie Jeremy Swayman has been a bright spot all season, holding strong with top-10 rankings in save percentage and goals saved above expectation. That's provided Boston with a chance to counterbalance some of its defensive lapses.

Toronto Maple Leafs

Toronto's offensive prowess is well-documented, ranking sixth in expected goals for while consistently generating high-danger chances. The Leafs' balanced attack is reflected in their power play performance, placing them 12th in the league.

These offensive metrics will be key against a Bruins team that can be caught off guard defensively. The Leafs will be tested against Swayman’s goaltending, though.

Defensively, the Leafs face significant challenges, ranking 26th in expected goals against and last in high-danger chances against.

Goaltender Ilya Samsonov’s struggles are evident, with rankings towards the bottom in save percentage and goals against average, which could be particularly exploitable in the high-stakes environment of this matchup.

Bruins vs. Maple Leafs

Betting Pick & Prediction

In evaluating the best bets available, the Maple Leafs' moneyline at -112 odds presents a compelling case as the best wager.

Despite its defensive shortcomings, Toronto’s offensive capabilities — especially in generating high-danger chances against a middling Bruins defense — should give the Leafs the edge in a likely high-scoring affair.

Furthermore, the Leafs' ability to exploit the Bruins' penalty issues with their effective power play adds another layer of advantage, especially in front of a home crowd hungry for a deep playoff push.

With an exhilarated crowd behind it, Toronto should have enough to capitalize against a Bruins team that doesn’t operate as well on the road.