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NHL expert picks today: Thursday's best bets highlight Kings vs. Lightning play [12/18/2025]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Dave Garofolo, Content Producer
Get NHL expert picks and best bets for Thursday, December 18, 2025.
Today’s NHL expert picks for December 18, 2025 are here, with Kings vs. Lightning among the top plays identified by our model across Thursday’s NHL schedule.
Dimers’ predictive analytics engine runs 24/7, searching the latest hockey odds to uncover top betting edges. The result? Data-backed picks that help Dimers Pro members make smarter decisions.
List of NHL expert picks tonight [12/18, updated 12:32PM ET]
Below, you’ll find today’s best hockey bets, ranked by edge for Thursday, December 18, 2025.
Kings ML (+170)
- Edge: 2.5%
- Probability: 39.5%
- Matchup: Kings vs. Lightning (7:00PM ET, Thursday)
Our model has identified value on Kings to defeat Lightning at +170 odds. A 39.5% probability produces an edge of 2.5%, making this the strongest play for today's NHL slate.
NHL best bets summary: Thursday, 12/18/2025
As of 12:32PM ET, here is our top NHL bet by edge recommended by our model:
| Matchup | Bet | Odds | Edge | Probability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kings vs. Lightning | Kings ML | +170 @ DraftKings | 2.5% | 39.5% |
List of upcoming NHL games to bet on [12/18/2025]
- Penguins vs. Senators (7:00PM ET, Thursday)
- Oilers vs. Bruins (7:00PM ET, Thursday)
- Kings vs. Lightning (7:00PM ET, Thursday)
- Wild vs. Blue Jackets (7:00PM ET, Thursday)
- Blackhawks vs. Canadiens (7:00PM ET, Thursday)
- Maple Leafs vs. Capitals (7:00PM ET, Thursday)
- Flyers vs. Sabres (7:30PM ET, Thursday)
- Rangers vs. Blues (8:00PM ET, Thursday)
- Kraken vs. Flames (9:00PM ET, Thursday)
- Stars vs. Sharks (10:00PM ET, Thursday)
Conclusion
Our NHL best bets are locked and loaded for December 18, 2025, featuring plays such as Kings ML. 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 sourced 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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Dave Garofolo uses sophisticated AI-driven analytics to make predictions and evaluate player performances in the NBA, MLB, NFL, NHL, NCAAM, and PGA TOUR tournaments, crafting insightful game and prop previews.
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