Olympic Hockey Predictions: Feb 15 Picks & Expert Analysis

Sunday’s Olympic hockey schedule presents key matchups with playoff implications, and several intriguing player prop bets. The day’s action begins with a contest between Switzerland and Czechia, followed by a heavily favored Canada facing France, and concludes with a clash between Germany and the United States. These games aren’t just about wins and losses; seeding for the playoff rounds is firmly on the line.

Switzerland (1-1) vs Czechia (1-1)

The 6:10 a.m. ET game between Switzerland and Czechia will determine which team earns a higher seed heading into the qualifying playoff round. Analysts favour the Czech Republic, with a Czech Team Total Over 2.5 goals at -120 being a notable betting opportunity. Czechia is expected to play a more aggressive, up-tempo game after entering Sunday with a negative goal differential.

Did You Know? Kevin Fiala of Switzerland suffered an injury in Friday’s loss to Canada and will be sidelined for the remainder of the Olympics, and potentially the Los Angeles Kings’ season if they reach the playoffs.

A potential value play lies with Damien Riat, who is likely to replace the injured Fiala. His anytime goal prop varies significantly between sportsbooks, with odds of +950 at DraftKings and +500 elsewhere. Additional prop bets include David Pastrnak (+115), Martin Necas (+195), and Ondrej Palat (+290) all to score anytime.

Canada (2-0) vs France (0-2)

Canada enters their 10:40 a.m. ET matchup against France as overwhelming favorites. With a -20000 moneyline, the focus shifts to the over/under total of 7.5 goals. Canada has only conceded one goal in their last four-plus Olympic games with NHL players, suggesting a high-scoring affair is possible. France has allowed six goals to the Czech Republic and four to Switzerland, indicating they may struggle to contain Canada’s offensive firepower.

Tiebreaker Scenarios

The game carries added weight due to a tiebreaker scenario with the United States. If both Canada and the USA win their Sunday games in regulation, the top seed will be determined by goal differential (Canada currently +9, USA +7). If goal differential is also tied, total goals scored will be the next tiebreaker (Canada 9, USA 11). Should those also be equal, Canada’s 2020 IIHF Men’s hockey world ranking of number one will be the deciding factor.

Expert Insight: The emphasis on goal differential and total goals scored highlights the strategic importance of maximizing offensive output, even in games against significantly weaker opponents. Canada’s approach against France could be driven as much by seeding considerations as by simply winning the game.

Player prop bets include Macklin Celebrini anytime goal (+100), Celebrini first period goal (+420), and Connor McDavid first period goal (+310), all available at FanDuel.

Germany (1-1) vs USA (2-0)

The 3:10 p.m. ET game between Germany and the USA sees the Americans looking to secure both a group win and the top overall seed for the quarterfinal round. Despite a 6-3 win over Denmark, Team USA’s performance was described as lacking intensity, falling behind early before a second-period surge. Connor Hellebuyck is expected to start in goal for the USA, having allowed only one goal in his previous Olympic appearance against Latvia.

Germany has the opportunity to win Group B and advance to the quarterfinal round with a regulation victory. The over 6.5 goals (-115) is considered a strong betting option, given the potential for a high-scoring game. Player props include Leon Draisaitl anytime goal (+220), Tim Stutzle (+330), JJ Peterka (+350), Jack Hughes (+275), Matt Boldy (+200), Brock Nelson (+310), and Brady Tkachuk (+145).

Frequently Asked Questions

What determines the top seed between Canada and the USA?

If both Canada and the USA win their games in regulation, the top seed will be awarded to the country with the best goal differential. If tied, total goals scored will be the next tiebreaker, followed by the 2020 IIHF Men’s hockey world ranking.

Which player prop bet offers the most significant potential payout?

Damien Riat’s anytime goal prop offers the highest potential payout at +950, though the odds vary between sportsbooks.

What is the total for the Canada vs. France game?

The total for the Canada vs. France game is set at 7.5 goals, with the under priced at -122.

Considering the various scenarios and player prop opportunities, which team’s performance do you anticipate will be most impacted by the pressure of playoff seeding?