NHL expert picks today: Friday's best bets include Lightning vs. Blue Jackets play [1/23/2026]

Today’s NHL expert picks for January 23, 2026 are here, with Lightning vs. Blue Jackets among the top plays identified by our model across Friday’s NHL slate.

Dimers’ predictive analytics engine runs 24/7, going over the latest hockey odds to discover genuine betting edges. The result? Data-backed picks that help Dimers Pro members make smarter decisions.

List of NHL expert picks tonight [1/23, updated 9:34PM ET]

Below, you’ll find today’s best hockey bets, ranked by edge for Friday, January 23, 2026.

Lightning ML (-115)

• Edge: 2.7%
• Probability: 56.2%
• Matchup: Lightning vs. Blue Jackets (7:00PM ET, Saturday)

Our model has identified value on Lightning to defeat Blue Jackets at -115 odds. A 56.2% probability produces an edge of 2.7%, making this the strongest play for today's NHL slate.

Lightning -1.5 (+205)

• Edge: 2.4%
• Probability: 35.2%
• Matchup: Lightning vs. Blue Jackets (7:00PM ET, Saturday)

Lightning -1.5 carries a 2.4% edge and a probability of 35.2% at +205 odds, according to our model.

NHL best bets summary: Friday, 1/23/2026

As of 9:34PM ET, here are our top NHL bets by edge recommended by our model:

List of upcoming NHL games to bet on [1/23/2026]

• Ducks vs. Kraken (10:00PM ET, Friday)
• Devils vs. Canucks (10:00PM ET, Friday)
• Rangers vs. Sharks (10:00PM ET, Friday)
• Sabres vs. Islanders (1:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Mammoth vs. Predators (1:30PM ET, Saturday)
• Red Wings vs. Jets (7:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Lightning vs. Blue Jackets (7:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Hurricanes vs. Senators (7:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Canadiens vs. Bruins (7:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Kings vs. Blues (8:00PM ET, Saturday)
• Panthers vs. Wild (9:00PM ET, Saturday)

NHL betting tools explained

This short video breaks down how Dimers’ NHL models work and how you can apply projections and market insights before placing a bet.

Conclusion

Our NHL best bets are locked and loaded for January 23, 2026, featuring plays such as Lightning ML and Lightning -1.5. Powered by advanced simulations, these picks are here to boost your betting game.

This article, enhanced by AI and automation, aims to deliver accurate NHL insights quickly, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are drawn from current data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.

All odds and probabilities in this article are correct and accurate at the time of publication.

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