NHL expert picks today: Monday's best bets highlight Ducks vs. Capitals play [1/5/2026]

Updated: Jan 5, 2026, 6:36 PM ET | First published: Jan 5, 2026, 11:10 AM ET

Written by Jason Bevilacqua, Head of Content and Communities

Get NHL expert picks and best bets for Monday, January 5, 2026.

NHL Best Bets. — These NHL betting picks for January 5, 2026, are based on the latest odds and probabilities for Monday's games.

Today’s NHL expert picks for January 5, 2026 are here, with Ducks vs. Capitals among the top plays identified by our model across Monday’s NHL slate.

Dimers’ predictive analytics engine runs 24/7, scanning the latest hockey odds to unearth legitimate betting edges. The result? Data-backed plays that help Dimers Pro members make smarter decisions.

List of NHL expert picks tonight [1/5, updated 6:36PM ET]

Below, you’ll find today’s best hockey bets, ranked by edge for Monday, January 5, 2026.

Ducks vs. Capitals under 6.5 goals (+110)

Edge: 3.2%
Probability: 50.9%
Matchup: Ducks vs. Capitals (7:00PM ET, Monday)

Our model has identified value on under 6.5 goals in Ducks vs. Capitals at +110 odds. A 50.9% probability produces an edge of 3.2%, making this the strongest play for today's NHL slate.

NHL best bets summary: Monday, 1/5/2026

As of 6:36PM ET, here is our top NHL bet by edge recommended by our model:

Matchup	Bet	Odds	Edge	Probability
Ducks vs. Capitals	Under 6.5 Goals	+110 @ DraftKings	3.2%	50.9%

List of upcoming NHL games to bet on [1/5/2026]

Mammoth vs. Rangers (7:00PM ET, Monday)
Ducks vs. Capitals (7:00PM ET, Monday)
Red Wings vs. Senators (7:30PM ET, Monday)
Kraken vs. Flames (9:30PM ET, Monday)
Wild vs. Kings (10:30PM ET, Monday)

What Is Dimebot?

Dimebot is Dimers’ AI bet assistant, designed to surface swift insights, answer betting questions, and help you explore data more efficiently.

Conclusion

Our NHL best bets are locked and loaded for January 5, 2026, featuring plays such as under 6.5 goals in the Ducks vs. Capitals matchup. Powered by advanced simulations, these picks are here to boost your betting game.

This article, enhanced by AI and automation, aims to deliver accurate NHL insights quickly, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are drawn from current data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.

All odds and probabilities in this article are correct and accurate at the time of publication.

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Written by

Jason Bevilacqua

Head of Content and Communities

Jason Bevilacqua, an expert in MLB, NHL, NBA, MLS, and NFL, delivers game previews, best bets, and props. Since 2020, as Head of Social and Community at Dimers, he has contributed insightful articles utilizing data-driven models and simulations.

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