NHL Futures: Best bets for first weekend of the new season

Summer was fun, but hockey returning is even better. It’s time to put down the margaritas, sleep less, eat poorly, and bet heavily. With the first glorious weekend of the new NHL season (in North America) upon us, the debut performances of many teams this week provided important first impressions. What is real and what is noise? My best bets this week are about capitalizing on early opportunities, however fleeting.

Saturday, October 15 – 4 PM ET

As a hockey diehard, I was extremely curious to see what effect coach John Tortorella would have on a Flyers team that has a distinct paucity of talent. As promised, the Flyers played Torts hockey. They played with energy in board battles. They forechecked hard and frequently in Thursday’s season opener. And, of course, they blocked shots. Against a Devils team that at times looked like they didn’t have a preseason or hold practices, the Flyers were up to the task of exploiting New Jersey’s mistakes and spotty goaltending.

Unfortunately for Philadelphia, the Canucks are a different beast. They are not only replete with talent, especially at forward, but also demonstrate offensive versatility. Create off the forecheck? Check. Exhibit the speed and passing to strike in transition? Check. Possess a vigorous counterattack that puts a premium on puck management? Also, check.

The Oilers beat the Canucks on Wednesday night, but Edmonton’s superb man advantage played a large role in that. The Canucks outshot the Oilers at 5-on-5 and finished with a better expected goals percentage. Also worth noting, the Oilers have Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The Flyers do not.

All this adds up to likely trouble for Philadelphia. The Canucks pursue the puck on the forecheck like bloodhounds, and