NHL expert picks today: Saturday's best bets include Blues vs. Avalanche play [10/3/2026]

Blues +1.5 (+100)

• Edge: 5.9%
• Probability: 55.9%
• Matchup: Blues vs. Avalanche (9:00PM ET)

Our model has identified value on Blues +1.5 at +100 odds. A 55.9% probability produces an edge of 5.9%, making this the strongest play for today's NHL slate.

Blues ML (+255)

• Edge: 5.5%
• Probability: 33.7%
• Matchup: Blues vs. Avalanche (9:00PM ET)

Blues ML carries a 5.5% edge and a probability of 33.7% at +255 odds, according to our model.

Capitals +1.5 (-140)

• Edge: 2.9%
• Probability: 61.2%
• Matchup: Capitals vs. Lightning (7:00PM ET)

Capitals +1.5 vs. Lightning at -140 odds shows a 2.9% edge, supported by a 61.2% probability in simulations.

Bruins +1.5 (-140)

• Edge: 2.8%
• Probability: 61.1%
• Matchup: Bruins vs. Wild (8:00PM ET)

A 2.8% edge and 61.1% probability makes Bruins +1.5 vs. Wild a value play in the Bruins vs. Wild matchup, per our model.

Bruins ML (+176)

• Edge: 2.7%
• Probability: 38.9%
• Matchup: Bruins vs. Wild (8:00PM ET)

Bruins ML at +176 presents a 2.7% edge, with simulations resulting in a probability of 38.9%.

Capitals ML (+170)

• Edge: 2.0%
• Probability: 39%
• Matchup: Capitals vs. Lightning (7:00PM ET)

Our model finds value on Capitals to win at +170, supported by an edge of 2.0%.

Capitals vs. Lightning Under 6.5 goals (-115)

• Edge: 2.0%
• Probability: 55.5%
• Matchup: Capitals vs. Lightning (7:00PM ET)

Our model has uncovered value on Capitals vs. Lightning Under 6.5 goals at -115. A 55.5% probability produces a 2.0% edge, making this a strong play for today's NHL action.

NHL best bets summary: Saturday, 10/3/2026

As of 6:03PM ET, here are our top NHL bets by edge recommended by our model:

List of upcoming NHL games to bet on [10/3/2026]

• Capitals vs. Lightning (7:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Canadiens vs. Penguins (7:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Blackhawks vs. Sabres (7:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Senators vs. Maple Leafs (7:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Mammoth vs. Blue Jackets (7:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Hurricanes vs. Flyers (7:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Kraken vs. Oilers (7:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Devils vs. Islanders (7:30PM ET, Saturday)
• Bruins vs. Wild (8:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Stars vs. Predators (8:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Blues vs. Avalanche (9:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Kings vs. Sharks (10:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Flames vs. Canucks (10:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Jets vs. Red Wings (1:00PM ET, Sunday)
• Mammoth vs. Rangers (6:00PM ET, Sunday)

Conclusion

Our NHL best bets are locked and loaded for October 3, 2026, featuring plays such as Blues +1.5 vs. Avalanche and Blues ML. Powered by advanced simulations, these picks are here to boost your betting game.

Our predictions are based on current data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice, head to our Responsible Gambling hub.

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