Syracuse Crunch - Rochester Americans predictions and free betting tips [02/05/2024]

American Hockey League. Playoffs 2024. Calder Cup. Series up to three wins. Score 1-1. Not the opening match of the day in this series, one of two that started with the 1/16 finals. So far the score is equal, with the second and third places of the Central Division playing against each other. The series has moved to the Syracuse "Crunch" home, where they will face Rochester "Americans".

Syracuse "Crunch"

The farm team of Tampa, for the first time in many years, lasts longer in the season than the main team, now it's getting replenished from their main team. Syracuse "Crunch" has an interesting history; they were leading the division until the very last game day. But in a single day, they dropped to third place, which has resulted them not even being the favourites of this series.

However, they still managed to win one away game, specifically the second one 4:3 in overtime. The first game resulted in a loss with a score of 2:3. But thanks to the victory in the second meeting, it's Syracuse that gained the advantage of home ground and might finish the series at home.

Rochester "Americans"

Is there anything more offensive than to lose the leading spot in the division because of additional indicators, specifically victories? That's exactly how Rochester lost its first position, given that they were tied with Cleveland in points. But because Rochester "Americans" became the second, they still went straight to the second round of the playoffs.

And here, they face Syracuse. The series is currently tied; the first game ended with a one-score difference, and the second went into overtime. So it's yet unclear who is the real favourite of this series, and who's the underdog.

Head to Head Meetings

In this regular season, Syracuse "Crunch" and Rochester "Americans" held 12 games. Syracuse won seven times, while Rochester achieved victory in five. In playoffs, the teams split the victories with "Americans" winning 3:2, and "Crunch" securing a 5:4 win in overtime.

Prediction

I would like to bet on Syracuse, as I think they are closer to success in this game.

Predicting the total

But a more confident option, I reckon, is ITO2 (2.5) for 1.80, as Rochester scored at least three goals in both meetings.