The Boston Bruins recently made a big change in an effort to jump-start their season. They moved on from head coach Jim Montgomery, replacing him with Joe Sacco.
The early returns have been promising, as Boston has since won three of four games, allowing only six goals in aggregate.
My predictions for the Penguins vs. Bruins show the home side continuing to excel defensively, making life very difficult for Pittsburgh’s best offensive players.
Let’s take a closer look at my NHL picks for Friday, November 29.
Penguins vs Bruins prediction
My best bet
Erik Karlsson Under 2.5 shots (-120 at bet365)
My analysis
Erik Karlsson is struggling to generate shots on target. He’s gone Under 2.5 shots in six of his past 10 games, including failing to clear this total against shot-suppression teams like Carolina, Dallas, Tampa Bay, Winnipeg, and Vancouver.
The Boston Bruins allow just 27.61 shots on goal per game this season (10th lowest), and their defensive numbers have greatly improved in the short time since Joe Sacco took over.
Boston has played four games under its new bench boss, limiting teams to no more than 24 shots in those four games. The Bruins have played at a slower pace, more focused on tightening the screws and making life miserable on opposing offenses.
Rested and in control of the matchups, the Bruins are positioned well to put forth another stout defensive performance against a bad Pittsburgh Penguins team.
Penguins vs Bruins same-game parlay (SGP)
Erik Karlsson Under 2.5 shots
Brad Marchand Over 2.5 shots
Penguins team total Under 3.5
Brad Marchand is one of the most consistent shooters in the league right now, having tallied at least three shots on target in 12 of his past 16 games.
He has taken his game to another level since being put on a line with Elias Lindholm and Justin Brazeau during 5v5 play. That trio has helped the Bruins control 59% of the shot share, leading to much more volume for Boston than its opponents.
Lindholm averages 1.4 shots on goal per game while Brazeau comes in at 1.5. Neither player shoots much, leading to a lot of the shooting falling on Marchand’s plate.
The Penguins have given up 31.95 shots on goal per game this season, which is the third-highest rate in the NHL. There should be plenty of opportunities for Marchand to rip the puck on net.
Pittsburgh ranks 24th in goals per game (2.63). They have struggled to score this season and I don’t see that changing in this matchup. Boston is playing air-tight defense under Joe Sacco, giving up next to no shots.
When the Penguins do get their chances, they’ll still have to beat star netminder Jeremy Swayman.
Learn how to bet a same-game parlay with these helpful tips and strategies.
Penguins vs Bruins odds
Penguins vs Bruins live odds
Penguins vs Bruins opening odds
- Puck line: Pittsburgh +1.5 (-172) | Boston -1.5 (+148)
- Moneyline: Pittsburgh +151 | Boston -172
- Over/Under: Over 6 (-102) | Under 6 (-112)
Penguins vs Bruins trend
Karlsson has recorded 3+ shots in just 36% of his road games this season. Find more NHL betting trends for Penguins vs. Bruins.
How to watch Penguins vs Bruins
| Location: | TD Garden, Boston, MA |
| Date: | Friday, 11-29-2024 |
| Puck drop: | 6:30 p.m. ET |
| TV: | TNT |
Penguins vs Bruins latest injuries
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
