Get ready for a thrilling Game 7 in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs as the Dallas Stars host the Colorado Avalanche. Momentum has swung back and forth, with the home team taking the last three contests. The Avalanche forced this decisive game with a dramatic comeback in Game 6, turning a 4-3 deficit in the third period into a dominant 7-4 victory.
The crucial matchup is set for Saturday at American Airlines Center in Dallas, with the puck dropping at 8 p.m. ET. Looking at the latest odds, Colorado is favored on the money line at -137 (bet $137 to win $100), while Dallas is the underdog at +116 (bet $100 to win $116). The total goals over/under is set at 5.5.
The SportsLine Projection Model is a powerful tool, simulating every NHL game 10,000 times. Its performance during the second week of the 2025 NHL playoffs has been notable, holding a combined record of 78-55 on top-rated puck line and over/under bets. Following the model`s recommendations could have yielded over $1,500 in profit for someone wagering $100 per pick.
Best Bets for Game 7:
The Stars have proven resilient, covering the puck line in three games this series, including two on home ice. Historically, Dallas holds a 5-3 record in home Game 7s, contrasting with Colorado`s 2-5 record as the road team in decisive games. While Mackenzie Blackwood recorded a shutout for the Avalanche in Game 4 in Dallas, he has also surrendered four or more goals three times in the series and lacks Game 7 experience. The SportsLine model strongly favors Dallas to keep the game tight, projecting them to cover the puck line in nearly 80% of its simulations.
Despite not having the highest shot volume in Game 6, MacKinnon still managed to score. He has been a consistent threat throughout the series, finding the net in five out of six games, including the crucial game-winning goal in Game 6. The odds for him to score again are listed at +100.
Game 1 of the series was unusual as no goals were scored in the entire first period. However, in four out of the subsequent five games, the opening goal has occurred within the first 10 minutes. A notable example was Wyatt Johnston`s goal just nine seconds into Game 5. Based on this trend, a goal being scored early in the first period of Game 7 is considered likely, with odds at -142.
Torin Vale 
Elton Marrow