Published Dec 22, 3:55am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Dec 22, 3:55am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Dec 22, 3:55am ET
Two sides in disappointing recent form will collide in the NHL on Dec 23, as the Toronto Maple Leafs host the Pittsburgh Penguins. Find our picks here.
Toronto have dropped to the bottom of the Atlantic Division after losing each of their last three. Therefore, they now have an overall record of 15-15-5 this season.
The Penguins also sit toward the foot of the Metropolitan Division after losing eight of their last ten. Their overall record in the NHL this season now stands at 15-11-9.
The 2025-26 season has been a huge disappointment for the Toronto Maple Leafs to this point, and their playoff aspirations already appear to be hanging by a thread.
Toronto sit bottom of the Atlantic Division, and they have gone 4-4-2 over their last ten. Meanwhile, they have suffered defeats in each of their previous three.
Toronto’s most recent loss was suffered in Dallas on Sunday, as they were heavily beaten 5-1 by the Stars. A much better performance at both ends of the ice will be required on Tuesday.
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There will also be pressure on the Penguins this week, as they sit second bottom in the Metropolitan Division, despite boasting a positive overall record.
Pittsburgh have gone 15-11-9 this season, but their dip in form has seen them go 2-4-4 over their last ten.
However, confidence would have been gained in their latest outing after registering a 4-3 shootout success against the Montreal Canadiens. Rickard Rakell and Sidney Crosby both scored goals in the hard-fought win.
| TOTAL | Penguins | Maple Leafs | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WINS | 214 | 96 | 101 | - |
| GOALS | 1474 | 732 | 742 |
Confidence will be low among both teams, and that will make this game challenging to call. However, home advantage could be crucial factor. Toronto have won just under 53% of their home games against the Penguins.
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Pick
Toronto Maple Leafs
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