NHL expert picks today: New Year's Day best bets highlight Jets vs. Maple Leafs play [1/1/2026]

Today’s NHL expert picks for New Year's Day are here, with Jets vs. Maple Leafs among the top plays identified by our model across Thursday’s NHL schedule.

Dimers’ predictive analytics engine runs 24/7, scanning the latest hockey odds to find top betting edges. The result? Data-backed plays that help Dimers Pro members make smarter decisions.

List of NHL expert picks tonight [1/1, updated 12:01PM ET]

Below, you’ll find today’s best hockey bets, ranked by edge for Thursday, January 1, 2026.

Jets vs. Maple Leafs under 6 goals (+100)

• Edge: 2.0%
• Probability: 52%
• Matchup: Jets vs. Maple Leafs (7:00PM ET, Thursday)

Our model has identified value on under 6 goals in Jets vs. Maple Leafs at +100 odds. A 52% probability produces an edge of 2.0%, making this the strongest play for today's NHL slate.

NHL best bets summary: Thursday, 1/1/2026

As of 12:01PM ET, here is our top NHL bet by edge recommended by our model:

Matchup	Bet	Odds	Edge	Probability
Jets vs. Maple Leafs	Under 6 Goals	+100 @ BetMGM	2.0%	52%

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

• Capitals vs. Senators (1:00PM ET, Thursday)
• Mammoth vs. Islanders (3:00PM ET, Thursday)
• Lightning vs. Kings (7:00PM ET, Thursday)
• Jets vs. Maple Leafs (7:00PM ET, Thursday)
• Canadiens vs. Hurricanes (7:00PM ET, Thursday)
• Red Wings vs. Penguins (7:00PM ET, Thursday)
• Stars vs. Blackhawks (8:30PM ET, Thursday)
• Predators vs. Kraken (10:00PM ET, Thursday)

What Is Dimebot?

Dimebot is Dimers’ AI bet assistant, designed to surface swift insights, answer betting questions, and help you explore data more efficiently.

Conclusion

Our NHL best bets are locked and loaded for January 1, 2026, featuring plays such as under 6 goals in the Jets vs. Maple Leafs matchup. 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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