Thu May 01 01:00:00 UTC 2025: ## NHL Playoffs: Expert Picks for Tuesday’s Crucial Games
**New York, NY** – With several NHL playoff series heating up, Sports Illustrated’s Iain MacMillan offers his top three bets for Tuesday’s action. Two series could conclude tonight, as the Toronto Maple Leafs and Carolina Hurricanes aim to advance with 3-1 series leads.
MacMillan’s first pick focuses on the defensive prowess of both the Ottawa Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs. Citing impressive expected goals against numbers, he predicts a low-scoring affair, betting the **under 5.5 goals** in the Leafs-Senators game.
His second bet targets Minnesota Wild goaltending struggles. Given the Wild’s league-worst shots allowed per 60 minutes in the first round, MacMillan favors **Tomas Hertl (Vegas Golden Knights) to exceed 2.5 shots on goal**. Hertl’s strong postseason performance, including multiple games with at least three shots, bolsters this prediction.
Finally, despite the Kings’ favored status, MacMillan backs the Edmonton Oilers in their Game 5 matchup. He points to the Oilers’ dominant 5-on-5 expected goal differential as a key indicator, suggesting that with improved goaltending, they could upset the odds. He therefore recommends betting on the **Oilers as underdogs**.
MacMillan’s picks are based on advanced statistics and his expert analysis, but readers are reminded that all bets involve risk. Responsible gambling is emphasized, with resources provided for those who may need assistance.
First Piper 