The Silcoff Selections: Best NHL & NBA Bets For January 8, 2026

The Silcoff Selections are here for January 8th, 2026. With all the action in sports tonight, here are some of my favourite plays across sports today.

NBA:

Dallas Mavericks @ Utah Jazz Under 241.5 Points

This matchup has consistently leaned under, with the total staying below the number in seven of the last ten meetings between these teams. Both Dallas and Utah have shown issues scoring the ball, which makes it hard to justify a number this high. With the Mavericks also playing with some edge on the defensive end, I like the under in this spot.

NHL:

Philadelphia Flyers Moneyline (-130) vs Toronto Maple Leafs

Toronto has dominated this matchup, winning eight of the last ten meetings, but I like the spot for Philadelphia tonight. The Leafs are expected to start Dennis Hildeby in goal and may once again be without William Nylander, which lowers their margin for error. With the Flyers playing strong hockey and getting this game at home, give me Philadelphia on the moneyline.

New Jersey Devils Moneyline (-105) @ Pittsburgh Penguins

I get the hesitation after New Jersey’s 9–0 loss on Long Island earlier this week, but this feels like a rally spot. I expect the Devils to simplify things and just fire pucks on net against Stuart Skinner and the Penguins. New Jersey has won seven of the last ten meetings against Pittsburgh, and with their playoff position on the line, I’ll back the Devils to go on the road and grab a much-needed win.

Nashville Predators Moneyline Moneyline (-115) vs New York Islanders

Nashville has won eight of the last ten meetings against the Islanders, and I like the situational spot here. New York is coming off a massive 9–0 win over New Jersey on Tuesday, while the Predators return home after a seven-game road trip that put them back into the playoff mix. Back on home ice with momentum, give me Nashville to defend it.