The National Hockey League regular season is ongoing with the greatness it holds. With the Stanley Cup as a trophy, teams are so determined to win. In addition, the playoff contention is also at stake, which forces the underdogs to secure a spot somehow. This has created great drama in the upcoming matches, especially within the conferences. So, fans will undoubtedly have a wonderful week ahead. Click here to know every latest ice hockey update.
For the games scheduled on December 21, 2025, we have given a detailed preview of the significant matchups. It includes the team dynamics, players’ quality, and technical strengths & weaknesses. So, without further ado, let’s get into the preview right away. If you think our predictions and previews are good, then you should visit our exclusive NHL updates.
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NHL Regular Season – Previous Game Highlights
The Senators registered a strong win against the Penguins as they kept the Penguins scoreless. In that game, the Ottawa Senators had absolute control over the puck and dominated every period. The Canadiens, likewise, finished the Blackhawks’ game by scoring 4 goals against the Blackhawks’ 1. Lastly, the Capitals restricted the Maple Leafs from scoring while they scored 4 times. They went 2-0 in the first and third period, whereas the Maple Leafs couldn’t score at all. The Dallas Stars won the game against the San Jose Sharks by a first-period lead. They scored twice in the first period, after which both teams were equal in the next two periods. Lastly, the Blues vs Rangers game went so close that overtime was required. By the second period’s end, it was 1-1, which resulted in overtime. The New York Rangers capitalized on overtime and earned the decisive point. Explore Bettingpremier’s sports column.
NHL 2025-26 – Games on 21 December 2025: Schedule and Predictions
Minnesota Wild vs Colorado Avalanche
The Minnesota Wild and the Colorado Avalanche will play in the upcoming NHL game at Xcel Energy Center. This NHL game will start at 06:00 p.m. ET on 21 December 2025.
The Minnesota Wild are ranked in the 3rd spot in the Central Division with a 21-9-5 record. Currently, they appear more solid in puck possession and scoring. Over 35 games, the Wild have scored around 109 goals and allowed only 89, indicating an active defensive side. Their last ten games were also good as they have won seven of them. This shows their strong current form and their readiness to clash with the Avalanche. Above all, their home form is solid, which makes them confident for the upcoming game.
The Colorado Avalanche ranks first in the Central Division, two spots above the Wild. They have scored 133 goals while allowing only 77. This shows their positive goal-scoring ability, which they are usually stronger on. The Avalanche is also defensively solid as they effectively manage to block the puck and steal possessions. Currently, they are on a 3-game winning streak and are more consistent in their recent games. Out of their last ten games, they have won 7 of them.
Verdict
The Colorado Avalanche are the pick in this NHL clash.
Boston Bruins vs Ottawa Senators
The Bruins and the Senators will clash in the upcoming NHL game on 21 December 2025. This game will kick off at 07:00 p.m. ET at TD Garden.
The Boston Bruins are having a better season than the Ottawa Senators. They have won around 20 games out of 35, a moderately good record in the league. But they recently lost a game against the Oilers, where they were able to score only one goal. This may show their occasional errors and inconsistency, but they have good overall coordination and possession. Although their goal difference is not huge, they maintain a consistently good defense.
The Ottawa Senators appear comparatively weaker than the Bruins in every game they play. Their defense is not convincing with their +1 goal differential, and it may go weaker against the Bruins’ offensive capabilities. They have a poor winning record since they have a 4-6-0 record. They have shown strong puck possession lately. Their goaltending is also solid with Linus Ullmark. But the Senators still lack the Bruins’ elite status. Therefore, the Ottawa Senators have a less chance of probability of winning against the Boston Bruins.
Verdict
The Boston Bruins will win the NHL game against the Senators.
Nashville Predators vs New York Rangers
The New York Rangers will clash with the Nashville Predators on 21 December 2025 at Bridgestone Arena. The clash will occur at 07:00 p.m. ET.
The Nashville Predators are not so hopeful this time. They rely solely on their home advantage this time, but they cannot withstand the Rangers’ pressure. Their winning percentage is very low, as they have managed to win only in 13 games out of 33 games. Their -22 goal differential highlights their weak defense. However, their last ten games were slightly improved in performance. Yet, the Rangers’ form is significantly above average in comparison.
The New York Rangers rank better than the Predators with 38 total points from 36 games. But their average goals per game are slightly lower than the Predators. They compensate for it with a good defensive side, however. Moreover, their short-handed and power play goals are elite. Compared to the Predators, the New York Rangers’ overall quality is no different; it’s just on par with theirs. Regardless of Nashville’s competitiveness, the Rangers’ scoring front will penetrate the Predators’ defense. Therefore, the Rangers have the edge despite a close contest.
Verdict
The New York Rangers will win in this NHL clash.
Dallas Stars vs Toronto Maple Leafs
The Dallas Stars will be hosting the upcoming NHL regular-season game, receiving theToronto Maple Leafs. This clash is scheduled at the American Airlines Center on 21 December 2025 at 07:00 p.m. ET.
The Dallas Stars arrive in a superior form with a 23-7-5 record, placing them 2nd in the Central Division. One of their key strengths is their defensive solidity, which gives them +27 goal differential. They effectively block shots and steal possessions. Their goaltender is an additional strength who nullifies progression near the goal line. Overall, the Dallas Stars are ready to combat the Toronto Maple Leafs in the next game.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are relatively weaker than the Dallas Stars with their below-average scoring ability. Their poor league record starkly contrasts with the Dallas Stars’ superior form. The Maple Leafs’ defense is their biggest concern as they have a negative goal differential. Especially, the Maple Leafs’ last ten games were not very pleasing. Their performance gave out only inconsistent outcomes, unlike the Stars, who are more consistent. Concisely, the Dallas Stars have more chances of winning in this game.
Verdict
The Dallas Stars are the favorite to win in this NHL game.
Pittsburgh Penguins vs Montreal Canadiens
The Pittsburgh Penguins and the Montreal Canadiens will clash in the upcoming NHL game on 21 December 2025. This ice hockey game will begin at 07:00 p.m. ET at PPG Paints Arena.
The Pittsburgh Penguins rank 7th in the Metropolitan Division with their underwhelming record of 14-10-9. But currently, they are not in good form as they are continuously going downhill. They have not won in a single game for the past seven games, with a 7-game losing streak. Regarding quality, the Penguins are severely powerless against the Canadiens. Even though they play at home, the Canadiens bring their elite defense, which might hamper the Penguins.
The Montreal Canadiens are ranked among the best in the league and are more balanced than the Pittsburgh Penguins. Although they have occasional lapses, the Canadiens are more consistent in scoring. Defensively, the team shows good confrontation and coordination alongside strong goaltending. By comparison, the Montreal Canadiens look way better in every possible aspect. Hence, they have the advantage over the Penguins.
Verdict
The Montreal Canadiens will take over this NHL game.