Welcome to NHL On Tap, your daily source for insights into the night’s NHL games. Friday’s slate showcases eight exciting matchups, with two nationally televised games in the United States and one in Canada.
Games of the Day
Toronto Maple Leafs at Detroit Red Wings
Time: 7 p.m. ET
Broadcast: FDSNDET, SNO, TVAS
Todd McLellan steps into the helm as head coach of the Detroit Red Wings (13-17-4) as they play host to the Toronto Maple Leafs (21-12-2) at Little Caesars Arena. Previously an assistant coach with the Red Wings from 2005 to 2008, McLellan guided the team to a Stanley Cup win in 2008. Detroit, currently bereft of playoff appearances since 2016, has stumbled in their last three games, giving up 13 goals against compared to just four. Toronto, meanwhile, sent Auston Matthews, the team’s captain, down to the American Hockey League due to an upper-body injury, while recalling goaltender Matt Murray. Murray’s return is timely, securing his first NHL victory in almost two years with 24 saves in a recent win over the Buffalo Sabres.
Chicago Blackhawks at Buffalo Sabres
Time: 7 p.m. ET
Broadcast: ESPN2, SNP, SNW, SNE
The Buffalo Sabres (12-19-4) aim to build momentum following their dominant 7-1 triumph over the New York Islanders, marking their first home victory since beating the St. Louis Blues in overtime on November 14. Meanwhile, Connor Bedard, a vital forward for theChicago Blackhawks (12-21-2), is one player to watch as he continues his impressive scoring run with 11 points (four goals, seven assists) over his last nine games. Chicago, attempting to end a two-game losing skid, prepares for a busy week that includes hosting the Winter Classic against St. Louis on New Year’s Eve.
Colorado Avalanche at Utah Hockey Club
Time: 9:30 p.m. ET
Broadcast: ESPN2, SN1, SN, TVAS
The Colorado Avalanche (21-15-0) brings their current winning streak of three games to Utah. Colorado’s December has been stellar with eight wins and three draws, second only to the Winnipeg Jets in road victories this season. Forwards Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen have been instrumental, accounting for multiple points in recent exhibitions. The Utah Hockey Club (16-12-6) showed resilience when defeating Colorado, winning 4-1 on the 12th of December, with Dylan Guenther contributing two goals and leading the club in total points. Despite this win, the Avalanche will look to make Utah pay with a potent scoring juxtaposition,争取ing their fourth consecutive win.
Other Friday Games
Boston Bruins at Columbus Blue Jackets
Time: 7 p.m. ET
Broadcast: FDSNOH, NESN
Boston Bruins (19-13-4) star David Pastrnak, who leads in points with 35 (12 goals, 23 assists) in 36 games, remains in question after exiting a triumph against the Washington Capitals on Monday due to an upper-body injury. Meanwhile, Columbus Blue Jackets (14-15-6) defenseman Zach Werenski stands out, ranking third among his position in NHL scoring with 35 points (11 goals, 24 assists) in 35 games.
Carolina Hurricanes at New Jersey Devils
Time: 7 p.m. ET
Broadcast: FDSNSO, MSGSN
The New Jersey Devils (23-11-3) have shown strong performances in December, especially through the distribution of Jack Hughes, who has 15 points (six goals, nine assists) in the past 10 games. Goalie Jacob Markstrom has been pivotal, locking out opponents in his last two starts with relentless saves. The Hurricanes (21-12-1) have struggled more in the same period, bringing a 5-5-0 December record into their road trip.
Nashville Predators at St. Louis Blues
Time: 8 p.m. ET
Broadcast: FDSNMW, FDSNSO
The Nashville Predators (11-17-7) have righted their season with a recent 3-0-1 stint at home. In St. Louis (16-16-4), defenseman Dylan Holloway authored a historic hat trick, aiding in the Blues’ comeback win over the Detroit Red Wings on Monday.
Minnesota Wild at Dallas Stars
Time: 8 p.m. ET
Broadcast: FDSNWI, FDSNNO, Victory+
The return of Filip Gustavsson marks a significant improvement for the Minnesota Wild (21-10-4) after his absence from four games due to a lower-body injury. Meanwhile, the Dallas Stars (20-13-0) maintain their competitive edge, securing a 3-2 victory in Utah to avoid an unfortunate stretch of consecutive regulation losses.
Vegas Golden Knights at San Jose Sharks
Time: 10:30 p.m. ET
Broadcast: SCRIPPS, NBCSCA
Tomas Hertl, returning to San Jose (11-20-6) for the first time since his trade to Vegas, brings unique perspectives back to his prior team with two assists in his most recent game against them. Rookie Macklin Celebrini adds spark to San Jose’s lineup, contributing regularly with point-earning performances in six out of his last seven appearances.
Stay tuned for more captivating moments and battles from this week’s thrilling NHL lineup. Count on NHL On Tap for your dose of hockey excitement and in-depth analysis.
Don’t forget to engage with our community! Share your thoughts on today’s games, subscribe to stay informed, and follow us on social media for the latest updates and exclusive content.
