NHL Betting Update | December 22, 2025 | Key Picks and Odds
Edited By
Marcus Svensson
A growing interest in NHL betting has emerged as fans gear up for a packed schedule on December 22. With impactful matchups involving teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning and St. Louis Blues, bettors are strategizing for potential upsets and game totals.
Today's Featured Matchups
St. Louis Blues at Tampa Bay Lightning
Blues +201, Lightning -250
Blues +1.5 (-126), Lightning -1.5 (+105)
o5.5 (-120), u5.5 (+100)
7:00 PM ET
Vancouver Canucks at Philadelphia Flyers
####### Moneyline: Canucks +114, Flyers -135
######## Spread: Canucks +1.5 (-230), Flyers -1.5 (+188)
######### Total: o5.5 (-105), u5.5 (-115)
########## Time: 7:30 PM ET
Columbus Blue Jackets at Los Angeles Kings
########### Moneyline: Jackets +135, Kings -170
############ Spread: Jackets +1.5 (-190), Kings -1.5 (+140)
############# Total: o5.5 (-130), u5.5 (+100)
############## Time: 10:00 PM ET
Seattle Kraken at Anaheim Ducks
############### Moneyline: Kraken +163, Ducks -205
################ Spread: Kraken +1.5 (-157), Ducks -1.5 (+125)
################# Total: o6.5 (-107), u6.5 (-117)
################## Time: 10:00 PM ET
Betting Insights
Insights from various forums have highlighted crucial betting angles:
Tampa's Strong Position: One comment noted, "Im liking Tampa 3 way moneyline, Canucks moneyline, ducks -1.5? and over 5.5 on Kings/Blue Jackets."
Seattle's Struggles: Others pointed out Seattle's drought, stating, "Seattle hasn’t scored a first-period goal in the last 7 games."
Kings' Comeback Hopes: A bettor mentioned the Kings' recent performance against Tampa, saying, "Kings ML -165; they haven’t been great but bested Tampa on the 18th."
Sentiment Analysis
Overall sentiment appears to favor the home teams, as many users express confidence in taking spreads and totals that suit the matchups.
Key Takeaways
🔥 Tampa Bay is a favorite at -250, reflecting confidence in their current form.
💡 Columbus has struggled on the road, noted at 1 for 5 in December.
📊 Canucks' matchup has been observed with keen interest, especially in goal totals.
For those placing bets, monitoring line movements and public money stats will be essential. Keep an eye on these games, as they can significantly affect betting trends leading into the holiday season.
Forecasting the Ice
As December 22 unfolds, expect the home teams to capitalize on their advantages, particularly Tampa Bay with its strong odds at -250. Experts estimate around a 65% chance of Tampa securing a win, driven by their current form and past performances. Other games could see similar trends, with confidence building around the Flyers at -135 and the Kings eyeing a bounce back. The totals for the matchups, especially for the Canucks and Flyers, stand between 5.5 and 6.5 goals, where around a 55% probability suggests the over may emerge appealing due to both teams' offensive capabilities. Keeping up with line shifts and public sentiment could further enhance betting strategies as these developments play out.
A Historical Echo
Looking back, consider the early 1990s when teams like the Detroit Red Wings faced ups and downs across intense seasons, much like Seattle's recent challenges. This period is remembered for unpredictably shifting odds and surprising playoff outcomes, mirroring how December's betting landscape may unfold. Just as the Wings grappled with roster changes and injury woes yet found a way to turn the tide, this NHL season is ripe for unexpected shifts. The parallels remind us that momentum isn't just forged on the ice; it’s created in the minds of those invested in the game and its gameplay.