Anaheim Ducks vs. San Jose Sharks 10/12/24 – The NHL season gives us another interesting clash as the Anaheim Ducks (3-2-1 preseason) prepare to meet the San Jose Sharks (0-0-1), who are the visitors. With both clubs determined to make a statement early in the season, a game set at the SAP Center in San Jose on Saturday makes it important for both clubs. As fans and punters combine their interests, this game becomes an important measuring stick for those interested in the best online sportsbooks.
Anaheim Ducks vs. San Jose Sharks 10/12/24
When: Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 10:00 PM ET
Where: SAP Center at San Jose
TV: ESPN+
Stream: NHL.TV
Anaheim Ducks vs. San Jose Sharks 10/12/24 Betting Odds:
| Team | PUCKLINE | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ducks | -1.5 (+205) | 6 over (-120) | -115 |  |
| Sharks | +1.5 (-250) | 6 under (+100) | -105 | |
| ||||
See it live.
Feel it live.
Experience our home opener LIVE!🎟️: https://t.co/FNJ5ZIGIoE#FlyTogether | @HondaCenter pic.twitter.com/tEfnv4C8Rh
— Anaheim Ducks (@AnaheimDucks) October 11, 2024
The betting odds slightly favor the Anaheim Ducks at -115 on the moneyline, with the spread at -1.5 (+205), indicating uncertainty about a large-margin win. The San Jose Sharks are not far behind at -105, and the +1.5 spread (-250) suggests expectations for a competitive match. The over/under is set at 6, pointing towards a high-scoring game, consistent with previous encounters.
Goaltender John Gibson vs. Goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood
John Gibson will be instrumental for the Ducks. In the previous season, Gibson had easy times, with a save percentage of only 0.888 through 46 games. Gibson’s ability and composure under duress will be invaluable against the Sharks offense that has demonstrated an ability to breach defenses, albeit in limited displays. Considering how dependent the Ducks’ defensive philosophy is on Gibson’s form, it is expected that there will be pressure on that strategy against a rejuvenated Sharks team who will be keen to fire up their season with a win.
On the other hand, Mackenzie Blackwood, who played for the Sharks, struggled in his only preseason game with a 4.94 goals against average. With the Ducks being a more physical challenging hockey team, it is clearly visible that Blackwood will be easily exposed. The Sharks’ defensive unit will also need to provide more assistance to Blackwood so that the overburdening is avoided and the transition into the season is easier.
Analyzing the Firepower: Anaheim Ducks’ Offensive Capabilities
The Ducks’ offensive lineup is led by Frank Vatrano and Troy Terry, who have demonstrated their ability to score and set up plays effectively. Vatrano, with 37 goals last season, will be a key figure the Sharks need to neutralize. However, the Ducks’ overall team performance, marked by a negative plus/minus rating among their leaders, indicates potential vulnerabilities in their defensive play, which could be exploited by a strategic Sharks offense.
Decoding the Sharks: A Look at San Jose’s Strategy
For the Sharks, rookie Macklin Celebrini has started strong, already making an impact with his scoring ability. Alongside Tyler Toffoli, who also brings a blend of experience and skill, the Sharks have the potential to challenge the Ducks’ defense significantly. However, their overall team struggles, particularly in home games where they have won only 1 of their last 10, could be a psychological disadvantage they’ll need to overcome.
Trends
Anaheim Ducks Betting Trends
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Anaheim’s last 6 games.
Anaheim are 4-16 SU in their last 20 games.
Ducks are 12-3 SU in their last 15 games against San Jose.
Anaheim are 2-9 SU in their last 11 games on the road.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Anaheim’s last 5 games when playing on the road against San Jose.
San Jose Sharks Betting Trends
San Jose are 1-6 SU in their last 7 games.
The total has gone OVER in 7 of San Jose’s last 9 games against Anaheim.
San Jose are 1-9 SU in their last 10 games at home.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of San Jose’s last 5 games when playing at home against Anaheim.
San Jose are 3-17 SU in their last 20 games against an opponent in the Western Conference conference.
Anaheim Ducks vs. San Jose Sharks Betting Picks
Based on the opposing trends and performances, there is a lean towards the Anaheim Ducks with the best odds available. However, due to their poor away form and the potential of the Sharks to cause an upset, a tighter encounter is expected. This creates a tactical problem for the betters in which they would rather take the risk of the Sharks covering the spread than wagering on any team winning outright.
When it comes to NHL best free picks, it is better to go for the Ducks to win however the +1.5 for the Sharks comes into play considering their record at home against Anaheim. In addition, prop bets on goal scorers like Frank Vatrano may prove fruitful and the over on the total number of goals set at 6 is also a possibility due to the scoring history of both teams.
Score Prediction: Ducks 4, Sharks 3.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: October 12, 2024
Last updated: March 22, 2025