Canada is such a huge favourite to beat Slovakia tonight in Day 2 of the 2017 world junior hockey championships that most sportsbooks aren’t even offering odds on the moneyline.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t bet on the game. Below are the odds for tonights game at Sports Interaction.
1. Canada -4.5
Best Odds: William Hill (-125)
Canada defeated Russia 5-3 in its opening game on Boxing Day, while the Slovaks are playing their first game of the tournament. Canada may be hurt by playing its second game in as many days and could also let down a bit from an intensity standpoint after facing the rival Russians yesterday.
Another thing to keep in mind about betting Canada -4.5 is that they will be starting their No. 2 netminder, Connor Ingram. But that may not actually not be a bad thing as #1 goalie Carter Hart has not looked sharp.
On the other hand, Slovakia appears to be a one-line team at forward and will need some excellent goaltending in order to keep things close against tournament heavyweights. They could also be intimidated by opening their tournament against the host nation in front of some rabid fans in Toronto.
2. Over 7
Best Odds: Sports Interaction (-105)
The Over/Under has been set at 7, which combined with the -4.5 puck line suggests we might see a 6-1 game tonight. Canada is no doubt capable of covering the total by itself tonight after pumping 5 goals into the Russian net yesterday. The question is, will they be motivated to run up the score on an overmatched Slovakian team, or will they simply be content to build an early insurmountable lead and then roll 4 lines and coast to victory?
Another reason to bet Over in this game instead of Canada -4.5 is if you think Slovakia can score a goal or two. If Slovakia scores 2 tonight, Canada would need 7 in order to cover the -4.5 puck line, but just 6 goals to cash the Over 7.
Slovakia scored 2 goals against the eventual champion Finns in last year’s tournament and also scored a goal against Russia, so it’s not as if the Slovaks can’t generate any offence against a tournament power.
Our Favourite Pick
We like the Over 7 tonight because we believe there’s potential for both teams to contribute to the scoring in this game. If Canada drops its intensity at all tonight, it will likely be at the defensive end. It’s still early in the tournament and we could see the young Canadians wanting to put on a show for the Toronto crowd.
Slovakia is fully capable of getting a goal or two tonight against Canada’s second-string goaltender, especially if they can get a few power plays. And if Slovakia does get a goal or two, that should only motivate Canada to keep its foot on the gas and add another goal or two to its tally.
Go with the Over 7 tonight and cheer for goals all night long!