World cup prediction: goal again?
With Raymond actively hunting his own shot and spearheading the offense, backing him to score makes sense.
Match: Sweden vs slovakia
League / Competition: IIHF World Championship
Our Pick: Lucas raymond to score
Market: Player props
Analyst Confidence: 4/5
Sweden enters today's game under immense pressure. Following a shocking 3-2 loss to Norway where they surrendered two shorthanded goals, Tre Kronor is fighting to avoid a devastating group-stage exit. They need a regulation win to cleanly solidify their quarterfinal position. When a team is pushed to the brink, the coaching staff heavily shortens the bench and leans on its best elite NHL talent. Expect Raymond to see maximum ice time, including heavy minutes on the top power-play unit.
Raymond has been Sweden’s primary offensive catalyst throughout this tournament. He leads the team in scoring with 10 points (5 goals, 5 assists) through the group stages. He is also coming off a game against Norway where he scored a brilliant third period goal, rifling a loose puck into the top corner. He is playing with plenty of confidence and actively shooting the puck.