Pittsburgh Penguins vs Ottawa Senators Picks and Predictions for Thursday, December 18, 2025
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The Pittsburgh Penguins travel north to face the Ottawa Senators on Thursday night at Canadian Tire Centre in an Eastern Conference matchup that features two teams moving in opposite directions. Bettors searching for value can compare this game alongside other free NHL picks, as Pittsburgh enters on a five-game losing streak while Ottawa looks to build momentum after an overtime road win in Winnipeg.
Game Overview
Pittsburgh comes into this contest with a 14-9-9 record and has been strong away from home at 8-3-4, but recent results have been troubling. The Penguins have lost five straight games, four of them by one goal or in overtime, showing competitiveness without closing ability. Ottawa sits at 15-13-4 overall and 6-6-2 at home, making this a critical matchup to gain ground in the standings.
The Senators are listed as home favorites around -185 on the moneyline, while Pittsburgh is priced near +150 as the underdog. The total is set at 6.5 goals, reflecting the offensive talent on both sides and recent defensive inconsistencies.
Pittsburgh Penguins Breakdown
Pittsburgh continues to lean heavily on Sidney Crosby, who leads the team with 35 points on 19 goals and 16 assists. Erik Karlsson has been a key contributor from the blue line with 22 assists, but the Penguins have struggled defensively, allowing 3.03 goals per game. Their offense remains productive at 3.22 goals per game, yet breakdowns late in games have cost them during their current skid.
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In goal, Stuart Skinner owns an 11-9-4 record with a 2.93 goals-against average, though his .887 save percentage reflects the defensive pressure Pittsburgh has allowed. Injuries are also a concern, with Evgeni Malkin sidelined and several defensemen unavailable, further straining depth against a young Ottawa team.
Ottawa Senators Breakdown
Ottawa has been inconsistent but dangerous, averaging 3.06 goals per game while allowing 3.25. Tim StĂĽtzle leads the offense with 33 points, including 15 goals, and remains a constant threat in transition. Jake Sanderson has been a steady presence on the back end, leading the team with 19 assists.
Linus Ullmark is expected to anchor the crease, carrying a 12-8-4 record with a 3.00 goals-against average. While his numbers are not dominant, Ottawa tends to play better structurally at home. The Senators’ power play operates at over 25 percent, which could be decisive against a Pittsburgh team that has spent significant time defending during its losing streak.
Betting Trends and Matchup Notes
Pittsburgh’s recent games have consistently gone over the total due to late goals and overtime finishes, while Ottawa has alternated between high-scoring wins and tight losses. The Penguins’ road record is a strength, but Ottawa’s special teams advantage and healthier roster tilt the matchup slightly in favor of the home side.
The 6.5 total is justified given both teams’ scoring rates and defensive metrics, especially with Pittsburgh allowing nearly 29 shots per game and Ottawa converting efficiently on the power play.
Best Picks and Predictions
Ottawa’s ability to capitalize on mistakes, combined with Pittsburgh’s inability to close games during its losing streak, gives the Senators a clear edge at home. While Pittsburgh’s offense can keep things close, Ottawa’s younger legs and special teams efficiency should create separation as the game progresses.
The Senators on the moneyline present the strongest play, while the over is also worth consideration given recent trends from both teams. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for the Penguins with the Thrillz promo code. Make the most of your bets on the Senators by using the sportsbook promos. Make sure when you place your Senators vs Penguins bet you are using the bet365 bonus code.
Final Score Prediction
Pittsburgh is likely to compete early, but Ottawa’s offensive balance and power-play success should prove decisive over 60 minutes.
Final Score Prediction: Senators 4, Penguins 3
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