Fantasy Picks and Betting Odds: Carolina Hurricanes vs the Arizona Coyotes
After a big win and even bigger news, How do the Carolina Hurricanes look going forward? And what does it mean for Fantasy and Betting?
All in the same day the Carolina Hurricanes got a much needed divisional win AND signed Justin Williams (Dad). So, huge momentum all in one night. This was much needed for the slope the Canes were on, hopefully to press forward with these last two, back to back, home games.
What exactly does the Williams signing mean? I hate writing in first person, but I’m going to give my honest take on this one, break it down, and tell you what it means for fantasy.
The Elephant in The Room
When and where does Williams fit into the line up? First key word to note is ‘when’. Personally, I doubt he plays tonight. As much as we all want him back, it’s not like the Nino Niederreiter trade where it’s another day of playing in the NHL, but for a different team.
https://twitter.com/Canes/status/1214954885755613184
In the Wednesday press conference, Williams told us that he has “been practicing with Erik Cole, but that’s not quite the same as playing with a guy like Svech.” Justin and Rod will find a time and place to put Williams back in but it won’t be tonight. Even with Williams practicing on his own, he’s got to get back up to NHL speed. So, keep fantasy the way it is tonight.
Notice anything cool in this picture that Chip Alexander posted on Twitter the other day? Yes, those are Whaler gloves in Williams’ “new” locker. Does this mean he is playing Saturday? In all honesty probably not, being only 3 practices in from time of signing. BUT, you never know.
Where does Williams Fit
Since before signing there have been a plethora of hot takes about how Williams fits in the line up. Now, the Canes have essentially an extra forward and blue liner going forward.
My opinion: Williams doesn’t have a set spot. He rotates to help with injuries and slumps. Now, while that makes writing these articles a lot harder, I think it’s best. But, if I had to chose a lineup with Williams in it full time, I would go this route:
Nino – Staal – Williams
Svechnikov – Aho – Teuvo
Dizingle – Haula – Necas
Martinook – Wallmark – Foegele
What is right or wrong or will be set I don’t think will be solidified until after the All-Star break. So how do I tell you who to start in fantasy until then? We have to look at what will NOT change (guaranteed).
The Blue Liners
Nothing is going to change with how Rod has been operating the blue liners. If you do not have Dougie Hamilton and Jaccob Slavin on your fantasy team, get them. Especially Dougie. These two are going to continue to play with each other and score all season.
Brett Pesce has been finding his offensive groove lately, and is definitely a sleeper pick for fantasy. Haydn Fleury and Trevor van Riemsdyk continue to rotate, and have low scoring impact. Keep them off your roster for sure.
The Forwards
Out of the various options for Williams to see ice time, there are a few forwards that will not take a back seat by any means. Sebstian Aho, Teuvo Terravainen (go vote), and Andrei Svechnikov. The golden trio will continue to thrive all season. Now, could Williams return cause these three to get back together for the Money Line? Maybe. But no matter what, they will play and they will score.
Honorable mention: Martin Necas. The rookie has been electric this year and is making a serious case for the Calder Award. The only reason any of these four guys would sit out is for injury.
Say it with me:
* indicate honorable mention.
Carolina Hurricanes Betting Odds and Lines
Let’s Get Statistical
- Record: 25-16-2
- On the road: 12-8-2
- At Home: 13-8-0
- Against current .500 or better teams: 15-9-1
- Against current .499 or worse teams: 10-7-1
Be sure to check out the betting odds and lines on The Action Network for tonight’s game:
The Coyotes have been HOT as of late until an embarrassing shut out down in Tampa last night. Could this fuel the fire, or burn them out? It’s hard to play back to back games, especially on the road. Canes new inspiration gets them a 4-1 win tonight so go place your bets!