I'm playing on CHICAGO 8* ANNIHILATOR. The Hawks are going to be highly motivated for this one. Not only are they off a loss but they've also dropped all three of this season's games against Winnipeg. This is too strong - and well-coached - a team to lose four in a row to a team like the Jets. While the Hawks are 18-10 at home, the Jets are 9-17 on the road. I say its "payback time." 

I'm playing on DALLAS 10* PERS FAV. Off three straight losses and having dropped five of six, one of those losses coming at Buffalo, the Stars are going to be extremely motivated here. 

This marks the fifth time this season that Dallas has lost three consecutive games. In ALL four of the previous instances, they won their next game. Each victory came by multiple goals, too. 

After dropping three straight at the end of October, the Stars responded with a 6-2 victory. Off three straight losses in early November, they answered with a 4-2 win. Next, came three straight losses to close November and open December. Once again, Dallas delivered. This time, it was a 3-0 victory.  Most recently, the Stars suffered three straight setbacks to begin 2017. As per usual, they stopped the skid right there, a 4-2 win at LA. 

Add it up and the Stars are a perfect 4-0 off three straight losses, winning by a combined 17-6 margin. That's an average score of 4.25 to 1.5. 

As for the Sabres, they're off three consecutive wins for just the second time this season. The only previous time that they won three in row, they followed it up with a 2-1 loss. 

With the Sabres at only 9-16 on the road, look for the revenge-minded and motivated Stars to bounce back, snapping their skid and climbing back to .500 here at home.

I'm playing on ANAHEIM 10* PERS FAV. These teams have split a pair of meetings so far. In each case, the home team finished on top. I expect home ice to again prove the difference. 

While the Ducks are only 11-15 on the road, they're an outstanding 16-8 at home. They hold visiting teams to just 2.0 goals per game here, scoring 2.8 themselves.

While the Oilers are certainly improved this season, they're still 22-52 (-29) in divisional games, the past 2+ seasons. During that time, the Ducks are 52-28 (+13.6) in divisional play.

Including the earlier win, the Ducks are 4-1 the last five times that they hosted the Oilers. Look for them to continue that home ice series dominance tonight. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 5* BM BEATDOWN. Given the current form of these teams, this line could easily be higher. The Caps are off back-to-back wins and are now 11-1 their last 12. The Canes have lost three straight. While Washington has scored 23 goals its past four games, Carolina has scored four goals its last three, allowing 14. While these teams have split a pair of meetings at Raleigh this season, the Caps were a perfect 4-0 as a host in the series, the past two seasons. The Caps are 16-5 against sub-500 teams on the season and should keep rolling for another day.

I'm playing on CHICAGO 5* BIG JUICE BLOWOUT. The Hawks are heavy favorites for good reason here. While the Canucks are 5-16 on the road, the Hawks are 17-9 at home. In addition to having the superior lineup and playing on home ice, the Hawks are better coached and healthier. They always love beating up on the Canucks and I expect them to do so again this evening. 

I'm playing on CALGARY 8* REVENGE SPECIAL. The Oilers have dominated the "Battle of Alberta" so far this season. The Flames have the schedule in their favor tonight though. The Oilers are off a hard-fought physical affair against Nashville last night, losing in a shootout. The Flames also lost to the Preds last time out. However, they had yesterday off to recover. With the Oilers just 4-20 when playing the second of b2b games and the Flames 15-9 their last 24 when attempting to avenge an earlier loss, I'm backing Calgary. 

I'm playing on PHILADELPHIA 8* PERS FAV. The Flyers are well-rested. The Devils played last night. While the Flyers are 14-9 at home, the Devils are 9-18 on the road. Philly outscores teams by a 3.3 to 3.0 margin here. NJ gets outscored by a 2.9 to 2.1 average score on the road. Throw in the fact that the Devils beat them 4-0 earlier at NJ and we should have a highly motivated Flyer squad. Look for home ice and fresher legs to make the difference. 

I'm playing on NEW YORK 10* PERS FAV. The Isles are off a 4-0 win last time out and just took two of three on their road trip. This should be a good spot for the Isles, 17-6 the last 23 times that they were off three or more consec. road games,  to keep their positive momentum going. The Stars exploded for seven goals, while allowing six, in their last game. They're still getting outscored by an average of 3.7 to 2.6 on the road though. Note that they're also an ugly 2-9 (-8) after scoring four or more goals in their previous game. While the Isles may only be a modest 9-8, when playing at home with an O/U line of 5.5, the Stars are a dismal 4-16 when playing a road game with an O/U line of 5.5. Already a bit banged-up, the Stars are now also expected to be without Oduya. He may not put up many points but he's a solid defenseman that gives them a lot of minutes and does a lot that doesn't show up in the boxscore. He figures to be missed. The home team won both meetings in this series last season. I expect home ice to prove the difference again here.

I'm playing on WINNIPEG 8* BLOWOUT. These teams have split a pair of meetings this season, both games played at Arizona. The Jets won back in November, the Coyotes beat them less than a week ago. With tonight's game shifting to Winnipeg, I expect the Jets to have the advantage. The Jets are 3-0 as hosts of the Coyotes the past couple of seasons, most recently a 5-2 win here about 12 months ago. While this season's Jets outscore teams by a modest 3.1 to 3 margin here at home, the Coyotes get outscored by an ugly 3.5 to 2.0 margin on the road. Not surprisingly, they're just 5-17 away from home. Look for home ice to prove the difference.

I'm playing on NYR 8* PERS FAV. Off back-to-back losses, the Rangers figure to be pretty hungry this evening. They've only lost b2b games three times this season. Both other times, they snapped the streak right there, beating the Pens and Sens in the next game, outscoring them by a combined 9-5 margin. Including a 2-0 victory over the Stars in December, the Rangers are an outstanding 14-4 (+7.6) in games against teams from the Western Conference. The Stars, on the other hand, are an ugly 2-9 against teams from the East. The 2-0 win in December came at Dallas, where the Stars normally play much better. Tonight, the Stars, who are only 3-6 (-3.6) the last nine times that they attempted to avenge a home loss, take to the road. Thats not an encouraging thought for Dallas fans, as the Stars are just 6-15 away from home, getting outscored by an average of 3.6 to 2.5. The Rangers, who outscore teams by a 3.4 to 2.8 margin here at NY, won last January's game against the Stars here by a 6-2 score. I expect the Rangers to finish on top once again. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH 10* GAME OF WEEK. The Capitals are red hot right now. Yesterday's 5-0 victory marked their ninth win in a row. One of those was a 5-2 victory against these same Penguins. That has Pittsburgh playing with recent 'revenge,' which should provide some extra motivation. Of course, losing three in a row for the first time all season also figures to have the Pens in a foul mood. While the Caps are remain a modest 11-8 on the road, the Pens are a dominant 18-4 at home. Look for home ice to be the difference. 

I'm playing on SJ (8*). This line came down a little from its opener. I believe it could have easily gone the other way. Off back-to-back losses, the Sharks are going to be extremely motivated. They're 14-7 here at home, outshooting teams by a 31.2 to 25.7 margin here. The Jets, on the other hand, have a 9-16 record on the road. While the Sharks allow 2.1 goals per game at home, the Jets allow 3.1 gpp on the road. Lay it. 

I'm playing on CHICAGO 8*. With the Wild off a Saturday game, the rested Hawks, who are 17-8 at home, could easily command a higher price. The Hawks got embarrassed last time out (6-0 loss at Washington on Friday) and they're a team which typically responds well, when coming off a bad loss. They're 28-15 (+5.2) off a loss by two or more goals, the past 2+ seasons. I expect them to improve on those stats here. 

I'm playing on VANCOUVER 8* SUPER PLAY. While neither of these teams is going to win the Stanley Cup this season, there's still value to be found; I feel that this price could easily be higher. The Devils won when these teams faced each other at NJ. Not surprising, given the Canucks' dismal 5-16 road record. They're a much different team here at Vancouver though, going 15-8 on the season. The Devils, on the other hand, are an ugly 7-18 on the road. The Canucks are +13.6 against the moneyline the past 2+ seasons, when attempting to avenge an earlier loss. Look for home ice to be the difference. 

I'm playing on OTTAWA. The Sens have had their way with the Leafs in games here at Ottawa. With the schedule in their favor, that should continue this evening. Even off last night's win at MSG, the Leafs are 10-12 on the road. The Sens, who had yesterday off, are 13-10 at home. After four straight losses, the Sens have scored nine goals their last two games, a pair of dominant wins. With the Leafs just 2-7 when playing the second of b2b games and 14-29 (-10.4) in that situation the past 2+ seasons, I expect the Sens, 6-4 (+3.7) after scoring four or more goals, to keep rolling for another day. 

I'm playing on NYR 8* PERS FAV. While they're admittely improved from years past, I feel that the Leafs are being given a little too much respect these days. Keep in mind that the Rangers were laying south of -200 each of the last two times that they hosted the Leafs. (NY won both games.)

Things haven't changed quite enough for such a drastic line change. The Leafs are still 9-12 on the road; the Rangers are still 13-8 at home. The Leafs are still 6-8 against teams with a winning record, the Rangers are still 14-6 against sub-500 teams. 

Both teams have enjoyed an extended break, each last playing on 1/7. Thats noteworthy as the Leafs are 1-2 when playing with three or more day's rest while the Rangers are 2-0, winning 4-1 and 4-3.

Knowing they'll have a rematch against these same Leafs, at Toronto, in less than a week, the Rangers should be hungry to "hold serve" here. All things considered, the price could easily be higher. I'm backing NY. 

I'm playing on TAMPA BAY 10* GAME OF WEEK.  The Lightning desperately need a win and a date with the Sabres, who are just 7-13 on the road, should be just what the doctor ordered. Including a 4-1 win at Buffalo in November, the Lightning are 8-2 the last 10 meetings with the Sabres. That includes a 4-1 mark the last five here at Tampa. The Lightning have had a few days off. Given their current skid, that break figured to come exactly at the right time. Note that the Lightning are a profitable 17-6 (+8.4) the past 2+ seasons, when playing with three or more day's off in between games. Most recently, they returned from Christmas Break to beat Montreal by a 4-3 score. The Lightning host Columbus tomorrow night, a team which has been red hot for weeks. Thats followed by a difficult road trip. In other words, they know that they need to take care of business tonight. I expect them to do just that, improving to 43-23 the past 65 times that they allowed four or more goals in their previous game.

I'm playing on NEW YORK 10* BEST BET. While neither is great overall, these teams are both much better on home ice. The Panthers are 10-11 at home but just 8-13 on the road. Meanwhile, the Isles are 11-11 at home but only 4-12 on the road. Not surprisingly, the Panthers won when they hosted the Isles back in November. The Isles won the last meeting here though (last spring) and have taken three of the last four, as a host in this series. Knowing that they'll battle these same Panthers, at Florida, on Friday, look for the Isles to go all out to "hold serve" at home tonight and for them to ultimately be the team which comes away with two points. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE 8* ANNIHILATOR. At first glance, this line may initially seem a little high. However, given the home/road play of these teams, it could easily be higher. The Preds outscore teams by a 2.9 to 2.4 margin here at Nashville. The Canucks get outscored by a 3.2 to 2.3 margin away from Vancouver. They're just 5-14 on the road. Note that the Preds were laying in the -270 to -280 range the last time that they hosted the Canucks, a 3-2 win last March. Hungry off b2b losses, look for the Preds to bounce back and improve to 8-5 after a loss by two or more goals.

I'm playing on LA 8* PERS FAV. These teams split a pair of earlier meetings at Dallas. With tonight's game being played at LA, I expect the Kings to have the advantage. While the Stars have been half decent at home, they're just 5-14 on the road. They've given up a whopping 3.7 goals per game on the road, while averaging only 2.4 themselves. That's no way to win games. Now, they'll face a stingy LA team which allows just 2.5 goals per game. Like the Stars, the Kings have been much better on home ice. They're 12-6 here. That includes a PERFECT 4-0 mark when the O/U line was listed at 5.5, as they tend to fare particularly well here against "defensively challenged" teams. They're now 9-2 their last 11 at home, when the O/U line was listed at 5.5. Both teams had last night off. However, while the Kings will also have the next two days off, the Stars face the Ducks tomorrow. They're 0-2 since mid-Nov. when playing the front end of b2b games. Look for home ice to be the difference, the Kings coming away with two points. 

I'm playing on CHICAGO 8* PERS FAV. I've been riding the Hawks recently, backing them in each of their last two victories. The Hawks are a talented, well-coached team which has shown that it can go on extended hot streaks. I feel that they're providing value once again here. While the Preds are just 7-12 on the road, the Hawks are a healthy 15-8 at home. Note that the Preds are only 2-5 their last seven games and that they scored two or fewer goals in all five of the losses. The Hawks are already 2-1 against the Preds on the season including a 5-3 win in the lone game here at Chicago. With that victory, they're 8-1 as a host in the series, the past few seasons. All things considered, the price could easily be higher. 

I'm playing on OTTAWA. Both teams played yesterday and that should favor Ottawa. The fact that the Oilers won while the Sens lost, may make Ottawa a little hungrier, along with the fact that the Sens have now lost four in a row. Note that the Sens were matched up against a much tougher opponent, as they faced Washington while Edmonton played New Jersey. Sleeping in their own beds figures to help, too. Also, the Sens have thrived when playing the second of b2b games this season, as they're 4-1 in that situation, undefeated here at Ottawa. The Oilers, on the other hand, are 1-2 when playing the second of b2b games, 0-2 since mid-November. Going back further finds them at a dismal 4-19 (-13.4) the past 2+ seasons, when playing the second of b2b games. With the Sens a healthy 14-4, during the same period, when off three or more consecutive losses, I'm backing the home team. 

I'm playing on SAN JOSE 5*. Having lost at Detroit earlier and off three staight losses, the Sharks are going to be hungry tonight. They've only lost three in a row twice this season and both times they responded by snapping the streak right there. In fact, they won those games by a combined score of 7-0, a 3-0 win (at Washington) and a 4-0 win here at home. Over the past few seasons, the Sharks are a superb 63-39 (+13) when playing with 'revenge.' Payback time tonight. 

I'm playing on CALGARY 8*. These same teams met at Vancouver last night, the Canucks winning 4-2. Needless to say, the Flames will be looking for some payback. While Calgary is a modest 10-10 at home, the Canucks are a dismal 5-13 away from Vancouver. The Flames outscore teams by a 3.1 to 2.9 margin here. The Canucks get outscored by an average score of 3.2 to 2.4 on the road. The Flames have had the Canucks number here over recent seasons and have outscored them by a combined 16-6 margin in winning the last three meetings here. Payback time. 

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS 8*. Including a 3-2 win at Dallas a few weeks back, the Blues have taken 13 of the last 20 meetings with the Stars. Given the venue, they could easily be favored by more here. While the Blues are a solid 14-8 here at St. Louis, the Stars are an ugly 5-13 away from Dallas. The Stars get outscored by a 3.7 to 2.4 margin on the road, the Blues outscore teams by a 2.9 to 2.5 average here. The Blues are 52-33 their last 85 against sub-500 teams; they should take care of business tonight.

I'm playing on CHICAGO 8* PERS FAV. The Hawks are looking to avenge a recent loss (12/30) at Raleigh. Thats bad news for the Canes as Chicago is already 11-7 (+3.2) its last 18 in the revenge role. Over the past 2+ seasons, the Hawks are 61-38 against teams with a losing record while the Canes are 34-61 (-17.1!) against winning teams. With the Canes at 6-16 on the road and the Hawks at 14-8 at home, this line could easily be higher.

I'm playing on SJ 8*. This price could easily be higher. The Wild are a mediocre 10-9 on the road. The Sharks are an outstanding 13-5 at home. While the Wild allow 33.8 shots per game on the road, the Sharks allow just 25.1 shots per game at home. The Wild, who are off a 4-2 loss, are 20-29 (-14.4) the past 2+ seasons, after allowing four or more goals. During the same stretch, the Sharks, who are off a 2-1 loss, are 25-15 (+8.2) after scoring one goal or less. The Sharks have had success against the Wild here over the years and that should continue here.

I'm playing on CHICAGO. The Sabres are in the wrong place at the wrong time. Off b2b losses and having dropped five of six, the Hawks are going to be in a foul mood. Needing a win, they're not going to mess around against a team like Buffalo. The Hawks are 27-15 (+4.2) the past couple of seasons, off a loss by two or more goals. During that period, they're 60-38 against sub-500 teams like the Sabres. Meanwhile, over the same time, Buffalo is 32-62 (-6.5) against teams with a winning record. Not surprisingly, the Hawks are 4-0 against the Sabres during that time. They were laying -230 the last time they hosted the Sabres and could easily be laying more here too. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 10* PERS FAV. Admittedly, the Jackets are extremely hot. This is the spot/venue where I expect their streak to come to an end though. The Caps are still an elite team, one with a 14-6 record at home. They're going to be extremely motivated to snap the Jackets' winning streak, due in no small part to the fact the Columbus swept them in a home-and-home series earlier. The last meeting here (a 3-2 Columbus win) was only six weeks ago or so and the Caps were laying -180. While the Caps, who have scored 14 goals in winning three straight, are arguably playing as well as ever, due to the Jackets' hot streak, we're getting Washington at a much lower price this time. The Caps are 27-13 (+13) the last 40 times that that they attempted to avenge a home loss and 61-32 (21.5) their last 93 in the revenge role overall. Payback time.

I'm playing on FLORIDA 10* GAME OF MONTH. The Jets scored an upset at Tampa last night. Don't expect them to do so against a well-rested Florida team tonight. Even with last night's win, the Jets are still just 8-13 away from Winnipeg. They only take 26.1 shots per game on the road, where they get outscored by an average score of 3.1 to 2.4. By comparison, the Panthers fire 34.3 shots per game on the net, here at Florida.

The Jets are 15-35 the last 50 times that they played the second of b2b games, most recently a 3-2 loss at Edmonton in December. The Panthers haven't played since New Year's Eve, when they snapped a 4-game losing streak. They'll be hungry to follow that up by ringing in the new year with a victory. Added motivation stems from the fact that they lost at Winnipeg (in a shootout) a few weeks ago. 

Over the past 2+ seasons, the Panthers are a profitable 57-49 (+13) when in the 'revenge' role. During that span, they're also 55-38 (+9.6) against sub-500 teams and 15-6 (+9.8) when playing with three or more day's rest in between games. They're better on the power-play and at killing penalites than the Jets and they've beaten them here each of the past couple of seasons. With the schedule in their favor, I fully expect them to do so again tonight. 

I'm playing on SJ 10* PERS FAV. These teams just met at LA on New Year's Eve. The Kings won 3-2. Playing at home, I expect the revenge-minded Sharks to get some immediate payback. While the Kings are an ugly 7-14 on the road, the Sharks are an outstanding 13-4 at home. SJ outscores teams by an average of score of 2.5 to 1.8 here, outshooting them by a 31.6 to 24.5 margin. The Kings get outscored by a 2.5 to 2.1 margin on the road. With the Sharks at 63-38 (+14.4) in the revenge role the past 2+ seasons and 33-16 (+14.2) when playing with two day's rest, this line could easily be higher. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 10* ANNIHILATOR. With the Leafs on a winning streak, we're getting the Caps at a much lower price than we normally would be. Keep in mind that the Caps were laying -315 the last meeting here and -295 for the one before that. I believe that they're going to be highly motivated to take tonight's game and feel that they're offering excellent value. The Leafs beat the Caps back in late November. That was at Toronto though, where the Leafs have been a better team. Even with a few recent road wins, none of which came at venues as difficult as this one, the Leafs remain well below .500 (8-11) away from Toronto. The Caps, on the other hand, are 13-6 at home, outscoring teams by a 2.6 to 1.8 average margin here. The Caps are already 13-5 against sub-500 teams this season bringing them to 66-32(+11.4) against sub-500 teams the past 2+ seasons. During that time, they're also a lucrative 60-32 (+20.5) when attempting to avenge a loss. They've dominated the Leafs here for years and I see them getting some payback tonight. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH 10* GOW. The Habs easily won 4-0 when these teams met at Montreal early in the season. Not entirely surprising, given the Canadiens' 15-5 home record. Also, the Habs were playing with two day's rest, while catching the Pens playing their second game in two days, for the first time this season. The venue has changed this time though and the Canadiens aren't nearly as good (7-9) on the road, where they get outscored by a 2.9 to 2.4 margin. This time, they'll be taking on a rested and revenge-minded Pittsburgh team which is a commanding 16-4 here at home, outscoring teams by a 3.9 to 2.4 margin. The Pens, who are a perfect 4-0 when playing with two day's rest, lost a couple of games after Letang went down to injury. However, they've made the necessary adjustments and have now won three in a row. They're 8-3 their last 11 in the revenge role and I expect them to keep on rolling right into the new year. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 8* BC. These teams just faced each other two nights ago, at Washington. The Caps had a 44-27 edge in shots but the Devils beat them (2-1) in a shootout. The Caps are the more talented team though and I expect them to get some payback this afternoon. The Caps are 10-5 (+2.7) their last 15 in the 'revenge role' overall, Going back further finds them at a profitable 59-32 (+19.5) in that role the past 2+ seasons. That includes a 26-13 (+12) when attempting to avenge a home loss. During that time, the Caps are a perfect 4-0 in games here at NJ. I expect them to continue that success here. 

I'm playing on TAMPA 8* PERS FAV. Both teams won last night and neither team has been very good when playing the second of b2b games. The Lightning have the advantage of playing at home though and that should prove significant. They're 10-6 here while the Leafs are 6-11 on the road. The Lightning have dominated the Leafs here over the years, including a 4-0 mark the past couple of seasons. They were -245 the last time that they hosted the Leafs and I feel this price could also easily be higher. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 5* BIG JUICE. This should be a mismatch. The Caps are 12-5 at home, outscoring teams by a 2.8 to 1.8 margin here. The Devils are 4-17 on the road. The Devils are 4-17 on the road, getting outscored by a 3.3 to 2.0 margin. The Devils are 3-13 against winning teams, 33-63 the past 2+ seasons; the Caps are 12-4 against losing teams, 65-31 the past 2+ seasons. They were laying -260 the last time the teams played here and could easily be more expensive again tonight. 

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS 8* ANNIHILATOR. With this game being played at St. Louis, the Blues could easily be laying a higher price. The Flyers get outscored by an average of 3.2 to 2.7 on the road. The Blues outscore teams by a 2.9 to 2.3 margin at home. While the Flyers are 15-39 (-20.8) the past 2+ seasons, when playing a road game with an O/U line of 5.5, the Blues are 19-9 (+2.9) when playing a home game with an O/U line of 5.5. Home ice proves the difference. Blues win. 

I'm playing on FLA 10* PERS FAV. The Christmas break figures to have served the Panthers better than the Leafs. Toronto was off b2b wins and probably wouldn't have minded continuing to play. Meanwhile, Florida was off b2b losses, so a break probably came at the right time. Also, note that the Panthers are a profitable 15-5 (+10.9) the past 20 times that they played with three or more day's rest in between games. During that period, the Leafs were just 5-12 (-6) when playing with three or more day's rest. The Panthers have played with three or more day's rest twice this season and they won both those games. The Leafs won both meetings so far this season. Those were both at Toronto though, where they're much better. Back home and well-rested, the revenge-minded Panthers get some payback. 

I'm playing on CHICAGO 8* ANNIHILATOR. Off back-to-back losses, the Hawks are going to be angry. Further motivation stems from the fact that the Jets already beat them twice this season. This well-coached team isn't about to let a team like the Jets do it three times in a row. The Jets are 6-13 on the road, the Hawks are 13-7 at home. With the Hawks also 8-2 the last 10 times that they attempted to avenge an earlier home loss, I say its payback time on Tuesday. 

I'm playing on NYR 8* PERS FAV. While the Sens have been respectable on the road overall, the Rangers have been much better here at home. Ottawa gets outscored by a 2.9 to 2.7 average margin on the road, the Rangers outscore teams by a 3.6 to 2.6 margin here at MSG. Off b2b losses, prior to the break, the Rangers are going to be hungry. The only previous time that they lost two in a row this season, they responded with a 5-2 win over Pittsburgh. (The Pens have beaten them by a combined 13-3 score in two subsequent meetings.) Added motivation stems from the fact that the Sens already beat them here this season. Note that the Rangers are 11-4 their last 15 in the 'revenge' role. The only time this season that the Sens played with three or more day's rest, saw them lose 4-1. The only time that the Rangers played with three or more day's rest resulted in a 4-1. I'm laying the wood with the revenge-minded home team. 

I'm playing on DALLAS. The Kings are off a game last night while the Stars are well-rested. Even with last night's win, the Kings are still just 7-11 on the road. The Stars, on the other hand, are 9-8 at home. LA won here earlier, when the Stars were really banged-up and that started a 2-8 slide. With the schedule in their favor, the Stars get some payback tonight.

I'm playing on NEW YORK 10* PERS FAV. The Isles finally snapped their losing streak on Wednesday. They had yesterday off and will look to make it two in a row, heading into the Christmas break. While its undoubtedly been a tough start to the season for the Islanders, their 9-11 home mark is still far superior to the Sabres' 5-10 mark on the road. While the Isles were resting, the Sabres lost their third straight game last night, a 3-1 home loss vs. Carolina. Thats noteworthy as Buffalo is an ugly 12-26 its last 38, when playing the second of b2b games and 23-44 off a loss by two more goals. While the Sabres are 3-8 against losing teams, the Isles are 6-5 against sub-500 teams. With the schedule and venue in their favor, I expect the Isles, who be looking to avenge last week's loss at Buffalo, to pick up the two points tonight. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE 8* SPECIAL. The Predators, who have won back-to-back games, will be playing their final game before the Christmas break. Playing at home and facing a Kings team which has struggled away from LA, I expect them to make it three in a row. While the Kings won this season's earlier meeting, that was at LA. The Preds won the last meeting here at Nashville by a 5-2 score. While that was last season, this season's Kings are just 6-11 on the road. Off back-to-back losses, the Kings are geting outscored by a 2.6 to 2.2 margin away from LA on the season. Meanwhile, the Preds are 10-6 at home, outscoring teams by a 3.4 to 2.2 margin here. All things considered, the price could easily be higher. Preds get some payback.

I'm playing on MONTREAL 8* PERS FAV. The Ducks beat the Habs at Anaheim earlier this season. Not surprising, given the home/road records of these teams. With tonight's rematch being played at Montreal and with the schedule in their favor, the Habs should have the advantage this evening. The Ducks won at Toronto last night. However, they're still just 7-11 on the road. The last time that they played the second of b2b games was on 12/4, at Calgary. They lost 8-3. The Canadiens, who got back on track with a 2-1 win at Washington last time out, are an outstanding 14-4 here on the season. They've outscored visiting teams by an average score of 3.6 to 1.7. They're well-rested and I look for them to avenge last month's loss.

I'm playing on FLORIDA 8* ANNIHILATOR. The Sabres defeated the Panthers by a 3-0 score, at Buffalo, back on 10/20. Playing at home, the Panthers should avenge that loss this evening. The Panthers, who have had a few days off since a 3-1 win at Colorado on Friday, are a respectable 8-5 here at home, outscoring teams by a 2.6 to 2.4 margin. The Sabres, on the other hand, are 5-9 on the road, getting outscored by a 2.8 to 2.3 average margin. While the Sabres did upset the Panthers in the last meeting here, the Panthers had won the previous four in the series here. Note that the line on Florida was higher for all five of those games than it is here. With the revenge-minded Panthers at a profitable 14-5 the past 19 times that they played with three or more day's rest, most recently a 2-1 win vs. Columbus on 11/26, this line could easily be higher, too.

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS 10* PERS FAV. While I won with the Oilers in their last game, this is a far more difficult matchup. Last time out, they were at home against a banged-up and road-weary Tampa team. Now, they're thousands of miles away against a motivated and revenge-minded St. Louis squad. Big difference. 

After giving up six goals against Chicago last time out, the second time in three games that they allowed six, the normally stingy Blues will be looking to get back to their defensive ways. Carter Hutton is expected to get the call in net and the change figures to do some good. Note that the Blues, who have seen their last three games produce 10, 7 and 9 goals, are a dominant 19-6 the past couple of seasons, after seeing their previous three games top the total. 

The Blues have now lost back-to-back games at Edmonton. However, they're 4-0 the last four times that they hosted the Oilers, outscoring them by a combined 17-8 margin. Even with the loss against the Hawks, the Blues are still 11-3 in home games when the O/U line was less than 5.5. The Oilers are 1-3 in road games with a total of less than 5.5, just 10-25 in that situation the past 2+ seasons. The Blues have been solid in the 'revenge role' the past couple of seasons and have also bounced back effectively after a poor defensive effort. Expect them to come away with the two points tonight. 

I'm playing on EDMONTON 10* PERS FAV. Both teams could really use a win but the situation/schedule favors the Oilers. The Lightning are banged up right now and at the end of a 3-game Western road trip. Last night's loss at Vancouver dropped them to 2-8 their last 10 games. They're 15-20 the past 2+ seasons, when playing the second of b2b games. Note that the Lightning failed to score a single goal the last time (12/4) that they were in that situation. The Oilers have also struggled but with two wins in their last four at home, they've arguably been a little better than the Lightning recently. They should have the fresher legs tonight, as they've been off since 12/13. That was the first time all season that they got a break of more than two days and a little extra time figures to come in handy at this time of the year. Knowing that this will be their last home game before Christmas, look for the Oilers to go all out and take care of business tonight. 

I'm playing on BUFFALO 10* GOM. I really like how this one sets up for the home team.  As healthy as they've been in some time, having last played on Tuesday, the Sabres are well-rested. They've won two of their last three, the lone loss coming against a strong Washington team. Their last game, a 6-4 comeback victory over the Kings, was the type that can often build positive momentum. Indeed, Buffalo scored four goals in less than seven minutes. 

Buffalo forward Ryan O'Reilly had this to say:."Once we kind of got on a roll, we stayed with it. Goal after goal, you could feel the life in the building. Everything just kind of changed. We took the game over."

Buffalo coach Dan Bylsma added: "After the loss to Washington, we really looked at these six games before the break for us to really bear down and focus here. I think that's really why the L.A. win is a real big win for this group and one we want to keep going here. ... It's just a stretch of time I the season where we really have to bear down and try and get some wins here and go on a roll."

While the Sabres are well-rested and off a momentum-building win, the Isles are off a hard-fought (and potentially deflating) loss against the Hawks last night. The Isles fought hard and had a lead out of the gate. They ultimately blew it though and gave up the winning goal with roughly six minutes to go in the third. Those are the type of losses which can be tough to bounce back from. 

Admittedly, the Sabres are still far from an elite team. However, in this situation, I believe they've got more than enough to take care of an Islander team which will be playing its third game in four days, which is now 2-8 on the road and which gets outscored by a 3.3 to 2.1 margin away from home. 

I'm playing on WINNIPEG. Given the home/road records of these teams, getting the Jets at pick'em price represents excellent value. Even off a few recent losses, the Jets remain a relatively respectable 8-7 at home, outscoring teams by a 3.1 to 2.7 margin here. That's much better than the Panthers' 5-12 mark away from Florida. They get outscored by a 3.0 to 2.2 margin on the road. I'm backing the home team. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE 10* PERS FAV. The Wild come in on a roll but I expect the Predators to cool them off this evening. The Wild did win the first two games of their current 5-game winning streak on the road. However, the last three wins have all come at Minnesota and those road wins came at Toronto and at Edmonton. With all due respect to the Leafs and Oilers, who are both improved, those venues aren't as tough as the one they'll play at tonight. Note that the Wild are still just 6-9 on the road. The Preds got back on track in a big way last time out, a 6-3 win over St. Louis. They're now 10-4 here at Nashville, outscoring teams by a dominating 3.6 to 2.1 margin here. The Preds beat the Wild 3-0 the last time these teams played here and 3-2 the time before that. Home ice proves the difference, the Preds, who are looking up at the Wild in the division standings, picking up the important two points.

I'm playing on ST LOUIS 8*. This price could easily be higher. The Blues are 12-4 at home, outscoring teams by a 2.8 to 2.1 margin here. (They're 10-2 here when the O/U line is less than 5.5.) Visiting teams manage less than 27 shots per game here. The Devils, on the other hand, are 4-13 away from New Jersey. They've been outscored by a 3.2 to 2.1 margin in those games, giving up more than 34 shots per game. The Devils have had a few days off, after losing their last three games by a combined score of 14-3. The time off can't hurt. It doesn't figure to help much either though; they lost (at Florida) the only previous time they played with three or more days off. The Blues already dominated the Devils at NJ, outshooting them 32-21 and winning 4-1. They beat them 5-2 the last meeting here at St. Louis, outshooting them by a commanding 37-24 margin. They're 5-0 overall in the series the last 2+ seasons and there's little reason to think we'll see anything different tonight. 

I'm playing on TORONTO 5*. Whle its not often we see the Leafs laying this kind of price, I believe that they're heavily favored for good reason. Even off a rare win last time out, the Coyotes remain a poor 4-12 away from the desert, getting outscored by an ugly 3.6 to 2.1 margin. The Leafs, on the other hand, are a respectable 8-6 at home, outscoring teams by a 3.4 to 2.9 margin here. Off back-to-back losses, knowing that they've got tougher games (Pens, Ducks) on deck and also knowing that they'll be facing these same Coyotes (at Phoenix) again in less than a week, I expect the Leafs to go all out tonight and for them to ultimately come away with the two points. 

I'm playing on DETROIT. Both teams are off a shutout loss last time out. However, those were very different. Detroit lost 1-0 and had time off since. Arizona got destroyed 7-0 last night and will now be playing its third game in four days. With the Coyotes now just 23-52 (-23.5) their last 85 against teams from the East and 0-4 this season when playing the second of b2b games, I fully expect the Wings to bounce back and improve to 7-3 against teams from the West. 

I'm playing on CAROLINA *8 VIOLATOR. The Canucks beat the Canes back in mid-October at Vancouver. With tonight's rematch being played at Raleigh, I expect the revenge-minded Hurricanes to return the favor. While the Canucks are 4-11 away from Vancouver, the Canes are a solid 7-3 here at home. Vancouver gets outscored by a 2.4 to 2.0 margin on the road. Carolina outscores teams by an average of 2.5. to 2.0 here at home. Catching the Canucks, who lost 3-1 at Detroit the last/only time this season when they were at the end of a road trip of five or more games, playing the final leg of a 5-game trip, look for the Canes to continue their strong play on home ice and to pick up the two points. 

I'm playing on CHICAGO 8* PERS FAV. The Hawks have already beaten the Stars twice this season. With the schedule and venue in their favor, they should do so again. While Dallas was busy losing an afternoo game at Philadephia, the Hawks had yesterday off. Note that Dallas is just 10-17 (-3.7) the past couple of seaons, when playing the second of b2b games. With yesterday's loss, the Stars are now a poor 4-12 away from Dallas. They get outscored on the road by an average of 3.8 to 2.4. Meanwhile, the Hawks are still a respectable 11-5 here at Chicago, outscoring teams by a 3.3 to 2.2 margin. Knowing they hit the road for a few tough games after this, look for the Hawks to take care of business at home this evening. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA 5* BEATDOWN. Desperate to snap a losing streak, the Panthers are going to be extremely motivated here. Even off an unlikely win at Tampa last time out, the Canucks remain a poor 4-9 on the road. They're 0-2 off a win by two or more goals. The Panthers, who lost 5-1 against Pittsburgh last time out, are 6-1 their last seven, when off a loss by two or more goals. The home team won both meetings last season, the Panthers winning here last December. Knowing they take to the road after this, look for the Panthers to go all out and for that to lead to a much needed two points.

I'm playing on LA. Off back-to-back losses and with a road trip on deck, the Kings are going to be hungry here. Added motivation stems from the fact that the Sens already beat them, at Ottawa, earlier this season and that the Sens swept them last season. While they're off a 4-2 win last time out, the Sens gave up eight goals in their previous game. They're just 2-4 off a win by two or more goals and I expect them to stumble against a highly motivated Kings team. 

I'm playing on CHICAGO 10* PERS FAV. This should be an exciting "Original Six" battle. While the Rangers are admittedly tough (8-5) on the road, the Hawks are even better at home. They're 11-4 here, outscoring teams by a 3.5 to 2.3 average margin. While the Hawks are likely to be missing a few regulars (Toews, Seabrook, Crawford) the Rangers have a number of injury issues of their own. That includes Rick Nash, who went down on Tuesday. His loss figures to be magnfied against a top tier team like the Hawks and when playing the second of b2b games. True, the Rangers have fared quite well when playing the second of b2b games. However, I'd still prefer to be in the Hawk's scheduling position. They've had the past two days off and are 23-13 (+5.7) the past couple of years with two day's rest, 4-1 this season, 3-0 since the start of November. As for Darling, he's 4-1 in five home starts. Off a shutout last time out, he's got a 2.39 GAA overall, which is actually slightly better than Lundqvist. That marked the Hawks' third shutout win of the season. They were 2-0 after the first two, winning by a combined score of 8-3. I like their chances of finishing on top once again. 

I'm playing on TAMPA 5* BM BEATDOWN. The Lightning are heavy favorites here for good reason. Tampa is a respectable 7-4 at home, outscoring teams by a 3.1 to 2.7 margin. Note that the Lightning are 6-1 here when the O/U line is less than 5.5. In their last home game, the Lightning defeated Washington, one of the top teams in the league, by a 2-1 score. The Canucks are a poor 3-9 on the road, getting outscored by a 3.0 to 2.2 margin. 

While the Lightning would follow up their win against the Capitals with a 1-0 loss at Carolina, note that they're a profitable 31-19 (+5.7) the last 50 times that they managed one goal or less in their previous game. Off since Sunday, look for a rested TB team to improve to 16-5 (+9.6) the last 21 times it played with three or more day's rest in between games. 

I'm playing on ANAHEIM 8*. The Ducks already won at Carolina last month. Playing on home ice, they should have the advantage once again. The Ducks, who will be hungry to snap a 2-game skid, outscore teams by a 2.9 to 2.2 average here on home ice. The Canes, who are just 42-71 (-23.9) the past few seasons in the 'revenge role,' get outscored by a 3.0 to 2.2 margin away from Carolina. While the Canes are 18-50 (-27.6) the past few seasons (0-9 L9!) in road games with an O/U line of less than 5.5, the Ducks are 40-21 (+6.4) at home with a total of less than 5.5. Ducks bounce back, moving to 29-15 their last 44, when playing with two day's rest. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 10* PERS FAV. The Caps got back on track last time out, erasing a third period deficit and beating the Sabres. Facing a team which they have dominated in recent seasons, I expect them to carry the positive momentum into this evening's game. The Caps are 42-20 (+11.5) the past 2+ seasons, when playing a home game with an O/U line of less than 5.5. That includes an 8-4 mark in that situation this season. Meanwhile, the Bruins are 2-4 this season when playing a road game with an O/U line of less than 5.5 and 24-33 (-11.1) in that situation the past 2+ seasons. The Caps, who hope to get Oshie back in the lineup, are 6-0 the past 2+ seasons in this series. I expect them to continue that dominance here. 

I'm playing on DALLAS 8*. The Stars are 6-5 at home, outscoring opponents by a narrow 2.6 to a 2.5 margin here. Not great but better than what Calgary has done on the road. The Flames are below .500 on the road, getting outscored by a 2.8 to 2.1 margin. Note that Dallas is 6-2 in games here with an O/U line of 5.5. So, the Stars have fared better in games which are expected to be a little higher scoring. After three straight losses, the Stars got back on track with a 3-0 shutout last time out, the type of win they can build momentum from. The Flames have won three straight, but they're just 7-11 the past couple of seasons, after winning their previous three. This season's only previous three game win streak was followed by a 3-1 loss. The Stars are 27-14 the past couple of seasons, when playing with two day's rest in between games. They beat the Flames earlier this season at Calgary and also beat them the last meeting here at Dallas. They were laying -200 for that game and could easily be more expensive here, too. 

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS 8*. Given the venue, this price could easily be higher. The Blues are 11-4 at home, outscoring teams by a 2.8 to 2.1 margin here. The Habs, on the other hand, are below 500 away from Montreal, getting outscored by a 3.1 to 2.5 margin. The Blues are 9-2 at home with an O/U line of less than 5.5 and they're 29-14 the past couple of seasons, when playing with two or more day's rest. The home team won both meetings last season. With the Blues off a loss and knowing they hit the road after this, look for them to take care of business on home ice once again. 

I'm playing on EDMONTON 8*. Good spot for Edmonton. The Oilers, who had last night off, catch Buffalo off a tough OT loss against Washington. If they entered the third period holding a lead, the Sabres had been pretty good at staying on top. Not last night though and that figures to be a tough loss to bounce back from. Note that the Sabres are an ugly 11-25 the past 36 times that they played the second of b2b games. While the Sabres are 4-8 at home, averaging only 1.7 goals here, the Oilers are 8-6 on the road, averaging 3.3 goals. Edmonton hasn't forogtten that the earlier 6-2 loss. Payback time. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 5* MELTDOWN. On Sunday morning, before the Monday lines were available, a friend asked me what to expect the lines to be. I told him to expect Washington to be the largest favorite on the board, by far. Yet, while still "expensive," the Caps are roughly the same price as Columbus and Pittsburgh. Given the situation, I feel the line could easily be higher. The Caps, who already defeated the Sabres, by a 3-1 score here a few weeks ago, have lost three straight. They're too good a team to keep losing and they tend to take care of business against teams like Buffalo. They're 7-3 their last 10 against teams with a losing record, 60-30 their last 90. While the Sabres obviously would love to avenge the earlier loss, they're just 45-84 (-12.6) in the "revenge role" the past 2+ seasons. Caps bounce back big. 

I'm playing on CHICAGO 10* PERS FAV. Both teams played yesterday. The fact that the Hawks lost, while the Jets won, figures to make Chicago a little hungrier here. Added motivation comes from the fact that the Jets beat them 4-0 at Winnipeg a few weeks ago. While the Jets are 4-10 on the road, the Hawks are 10-3 at home. The Hawks outscore teams by a 3.7 to 2.5 margin here. The Jets get outscored by a 3.3 to 2.1 margin away from Winnipeg. The Hawks have never had trouble with b2b games and are 4-1 their last five in that situation. They're also 26-14 the last 40 times that they were off a loss by two or more goals. They were laying -200 the last time that they hosted the Jets and -230 the time before that. All things considered, this line could also easily be much higher. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE. Both teams played yesterday. The fact that the Flyers upset the Hawks, while the Preds suffered a third period meltdown vs. the Devils, figures to make the Preds the hungrier team here. Also, while the Flyers will be playing their third game in the past four days, thats not the case for Predators, as they had some time off, prior to yesterday's game. The Flyers are just 4-11 the last 15 times that they were on a 3-game winning streak. I expect the Preds to bounce back and cool them off this evening. 

I'm playing on SJ 10* FEAST. These teams will meet again in exactly two weeks, at Montreal. While the Habs, who have been dominant in their own buidling, may take that one, I fully expect the Sharks to "hold serve" at home tonight. The Canadiens are an impressive 12-2 (12-1-1) at home but a mediocre 4-5 (4-4-1) on the road. Meanwhile, the Sharks have won eight of 11 games here this season. Overall, the Sharks have won five of their past six. They allowed only five combined goals in the five victories and just eight combined goals in those six games combined. In fact, they've now allowed three or fewer goals in 12 straight games. That's going to spell trouble for a Montreal team which has scored three or fewer goals in eight straight games, while going just 3-5. 

San Jose's Logan Couture had this to say about the team's recent play. "This is how we played last year down the stretch and in the playoffs. We get up on teams and it's tough for teams to come back."

The Sharks have beaten the Habs five of the last six times that the teams faced each other, including both meetings last season. They've particularly dominated the Canadiens here at SJ over the years and have outscored them by a combined 14-2 score the past three meetings here. Given the current play of each team and the home/road disparity, this price could easily be higher. 

I'm playing on CHICAGO 8*. This is a very reasonable price to be laying, in my opinion, with the far superior team. The Devils have lost three straight and six of seven. A look at those seven games reveals that they allowed three or more goals in ALL seven, four or more in five of them. By comparison, the Hawks have allowed two goals or less in four straight games. The Hawks outscore teams by an average of 3.7 to 2.4 here at Chicago. The Devils get outscored by a 2.8 to 1.9 margin away from NJ. 

Obviously, the Devils would love to get back on track and to avenge a late October loss at NJ. That's generally not much of a motivator for them though. Indeed, they're just 16-34 (-12) the past 50 times that they attempted to avenge an earlier home loss. The well-coached Hawks typically know how to take care of business against bad teams. They're 7-3 against teams with a losing record this season, bringing them to 32-15 (+6.6) the past 2+ seasons, when playing a sub-500 team in the first half of the season. Throw in a 48-29 (+6.8) mark against Eastern Conf. teams, during the same stretch, and this price could easily be higher. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH 5*. Having played against them last night, I'm obviously well aware that the Pens are in a back-to-back spot here. Not all b2b spots are equal though. In many cases, a team will also be playing its third game in four nights and/or its fourth in six. In this case, the Pens had three nights off, prior to last night's (5-3) loss. So, I'm not worried about the b2b spot. Note that the Pens were just in a b2b spot, two games ago. After losing 6-2 at Minnesota the previous night, they returned home and won by a 4-3 score. Including that result, the Pens are a perfect 6-0 after a loss by two or more goals, 7-1 after allowing four or more. With the Mavs getting outscored by an average score of 3.9 to 2.5 away from Dallas, I expect the Pens to bounce back and improve on those stats tonight. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 5*. While I won with the Isles in each of their last two games, I don't feel that they're ready to win here at Washington. Not when they're coming off a game against the Pens last night and playing their third game in the past four. The Isles are still 8-14 overall, 1-7 on the road. They're just 2-9 against teams with a winning record and they'll be up against one of the league's best tonight. The Caps take care of business against teams like NY. They already beat the Isles 2-1 back in October and are 7-2 against sub-500 teams overall. Going back further finds them at 60-29 against losing teams the past 2+ seasons, 33-14 when facing a sub-500 team in the first half of the season. During that stretch, the Caps are also a dominating 41-19 when playing here at home, with an O/U line of less than 5.5. The Caps outscore teams by a 2.9 to 1.9 margin at home, the Isles get outscored by a 3.4 to 2.0 mark on the road. With the Isles already 0-5 in road games with an O/U of less than 5.5, look for the well-rested Caps to move to 8-2 their last 10 as a host in this series. 

I'm playing on CALGARY 8* BEST BET. While I've played against the Flames a few times recently, including in their last game, (a 2-1 loss at NY) I believe this will be a good spot to back them. The Leafs won 4-2 at Edmonton last night. However, they're still only 2-9 on the road, getting outscored by an average margin of 3.5 to 2.5 goals per game. While the Leafs are an ugly 12-26 (-8.8) the last 2+ seasons, including 0-4 this season, when the playing the second of b2b games, the Flames are a profitable 29-22 (+10.3) the past 2+ seasons, after scoring one goal or less in their previous game. The home team won both meetings last season and I look for home ice to ulimately prove the difference once again. 

I'm playing on EDMONTON 8* PERS FAV. The Leafs took the first round of this season's "Matthews vs. McDavid" showdown, a 3-2 victory at Toronto on 11/1. With tonight's rematch being played at Edmonton, I expect McDavid and co. to return the favor tonight. While the Leafs have played quite well at home, they're an ugly 1-9 away from Toronto. They've been outscored by a 3.7 to 2.4 margin in those games, too. Meanwhile, the Oilers are outscoring teams by a 2.8 to 2.4 margin, here in their new building. The Oilers have beaten the Leafs here each of the past two seasons. Last season, after losing at Toronto, they avenged that loss with a 5-2 win here at Edmonton. Including that result, the Leafs are now an awful 14-50 (-30) when playing a road game with an O/U line of 5.5. I say its "payback time" again tonight.

I'm playing on CHICAGO 8*. This game marks the debut of a new interim coach (Tom Rowe) for the Panthers. Over the years, I've found that NHL teams often respond well to a coaching change, at least in the first game after the change. However, the instances where the teams perform well usually occur when the players were happy about the change. In this case, thats not whats happening. Most of the players really liked Gallant and felt he was doing a good job. Also, there has been widespread criticism of the Panthers' decision and their handling of the situation. As Rowe, who is also the GM, is part of the front office, some of ill will figures to go towards him. Don Cherry, who was only one of many to chime in, had this to say: "I just couldn't believe it. He was up for coach of the year last year. Absolutely ridiculous. Absolutely ridiculous, I really don't think the people know what they're doing down in Florida." So, this isn't the type of change that is likely to "inspire" the players.

Don't expect Chicago to offer any sympathy. The Hawks are 8-3 (8-1-2) at home this season. The Panthers are 4-7 (4-6-1) on the road. Chicago outscores teams by a 3.8 to 2.5 margin here, Florida gets outscored by a 3.1 to 2.5 mark on the road. The Panthers are a money-burning 24-34 (-9.4) against teams from the West the past 2+ seasons while the Hawks are a profitable 47-29 (+5.8) against teams from the East. As of this writing, its not entirely clear whether or not Toews will play for the Hawks. While it would be great if he could go, I won't count on it. Either way, I feel that the Hawks will have more than enough to get by the Panthers here. 

I'm playing on DETROIT 8*. The Stars have not been very good away from Dallas. In 12 road games, they're now 3-9 and they've been outscored by an ugly 4.0 to 2.6 margin. The Wings, on the other hand, have outscored visiting teams by an average score of 2.7 to 2.4, in games here at Detroit. While the Wings are fresh, the Stars are off an OT loss against division rival St. Louis, last night. Note that they're an awful 34-47 (-20.4) the past couple of seasons, when off a divisional game. The Wings are 38-25 (+7.4) against teams from the West, the past 2+ seasons. With the schedule and venue in their favor, I expect them to improve on those stats tonight. 

I'm playing on NY 8*. While the price is admittedly a little on the steep side, this one figures to be a mismatch. The Rangers have owned the Hurricanes over the years, including a perfect 5-0 mark the last five here at MSG. They did lose a game at Raleigh last month, however, which puts them in the 'revenge role' here. Note that NY is 7-2 (+4.9) its last nine, when playing with 'revenge.' With the Rangers off a 2-0 loss last time out, note that they're an outstanding 26-12 (+13) the past 2+ seasons, after scoring one goal or less in their preivous game. The Canes are 3-9 on the road, getting outscored by a 3.0 to 2.3 average score. Conversely, the Rangers are 8-5 at home, outscoring visiting teams by a 3.7 to 2.7 margin. With the Canes 0-6 the last six times (18-47 L65!) that they played a road game with an O/U line of less than 5.5, I'm laying the wood with NY. 

I'm playing on the the NEW YORK ISLANDERS. The Isles badly need a win and this should be the perfect spot to get one. While the Isles are rested, the Flames are off a game at Philadelphia and playing their third road game in the past four days. This marks the final leg of their 6-game road trip. Having already tasted some success on the trip, it may be easy to get caught looking ahead to the return trip home to Calgary and to Wednesday's showdown vs. the Leafs. I played against the Flames earlier in their trip (at Buffalo) when they played the second of b2b games and they lost 4-2. Including that result, they're just 1-3 this season, when playing a road game after having played the previous night. (The lone win in that situation came in a home-and-home series vs. the Blues, where they were playing with recent-revenge from a loss at Calgary.) 

While the wins weren't there, the Isles, 16-4 the last 20 times that they played their previous three on the road, actually played well on their recent trip out west. Head coach Jack Capuano noted: "When you play your three best games of the year and come away with two points it's tough. But as resilient as you have to be with your work ethic, you have to have that with your attitude. Not everything in life happens the way you want it to happen, but if they keep playing that way, they'll get some results."Look for the Isles, who I believe to be better than their record indicates, to have the fresher legs and to be a little hungrier and for that to lead to a much-needed two points. 

I'm playing on PHILADELPHIA 8* PERS FAV. The home team won both meetings last season and I look for home ice to prove the difference in this one. The Flames, still playing without Goudreau, are averaging a mere 2.1 goals per game (28 shots) on the road. The Flyers fire 33 shots per game on home ice, averaging 3.2 goals here. Off b2b losses, look for the Flyers to be the hungrier team here and for them to ultimately come away with two points. 

I'm playing on COLORADO 8* PERS FAV. Both teams lost last time out. However, the Canucks' loss came last night, a hard-fought 2-1 loss at Dallas. Meanwhile, the Avs have enjoyed a couple of days off, after Wednesday's 6-3 loss against the Oilers. That scheduling advantage figures to work in their favor tonight. The Canucks, who will now be playing their third road gam in the past four nights, are an ugly 2-8 on the road. The Avs are a lucrative 33-21 (+18.2) the past 2+ seasons, off a loss by two more goals. Most recently, off a 2-0 loss against the Bruins, they responded with a 4-1 win over the Kings. More of the same here. 

I'm playing on DALLAS 8* PERS FAV. These teams have similar records, against the moneyline. The Canucks are 8-12, while the Stars are 8-13. (Dallas is ahead in the standings, due to an 8-8-5 overall mark compared to Vancouver's 8-10-2 record.) The Stars are arguably better than their record indicates though, while the same likely cannot be said of the Canucks. Dallas was dealing with some major injuries early on and they were still a factor when these teams met at Vancouver on 11/13. The Stars, who lost that game 4-3, are getting healthier though and they'll be looking to settle the score, while also looking to bounce back from Wednesday's 5-2 loss at Nashville. They're 3-0 against the Canucks here the past couple of seasons. During that time, the Stars are also a profitable 32-18 (+14.3) off a loss by two or more goals, a situation which has long been profitable for them. With the Canucks just 2-7 away from Vancouver, the revenge-minded Stars should improve on those stats here. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE. These teams will meet again in Winnipeg on Sunday. That being the scheduling situation and given the home/road records of both teams, I fully expect the Preds to take care of buiness on home ice here. The Preds are 7-2-1 here at Nashville but only 2-8-2 on the road. Likewise, the Jets are 3-9-2 on the road but 6-4 at Winnipeg. The Preds have won five striaght here and have won those games by a combined score of 19-5, each of those five wins coming by multiple goals. Look for them to "hold serve" and keep rolling for another day. 

I'm playing on MONTREAL 8* SPECIAL. The Canes are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Off a 4-3 loss and looking to avenge last week's loss at Raleigh, the Habs are going to be in a foul mood. They're already 3-1 on the season, after allowing four or more goals. That includes a perfect 3-0 mark in games here at Montreal, wins against Pens, Flyers and Bruins. Overall, the Canadiens are 11-2 at home this season, outscoring teams by a dominating 3.5 to 1.6 margin here. Meanwhile, even off a win at Toronto, the Canes are still just 3-7 on the road, getting outscored by an average of 3.2 to 2.6. The Habs are 3-0 as a host in this series the past 2+ seasons. Payback time. 

I'm playing on LA 8*. The home team won both meetings last season. With the schedule in its favor, I expect the home team to have the advantage again this evening. The Isles upset the Ducks last night. However, winning on back-to-back nights in Southern California is rarely easy. Off three striaght wins, the Kings are starting to roll. They're 7-2 here at home. Even with last night's win, the Isles are just 1-5 on the road. Look for the Kings, who have had the past two nights off, to have the fresher legs tonight, improving to 21-12 the past 33 times that they were off a 3-game winning streak. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE. The Stars upset them here last month. Tonight, I expect the Preds to get some payback. Last month's result here notwithstanding, the Preds have been much better here at home than the Stars have been at home. Nashville is 6-2 here, outscoring teams by commanding 3.1 to 1.4 margin. On the other hand, the Stars are just 3-7 on the road, getting outscored by an average of 3.9 to 2.6. With the Stars allowing a whopping 2.5 more goals per game on the road than the Preds allow at home, I'm laying the wood with the revenge-minded home team. 

I'm playing on COLUMBUS 8*. I don't mean to keep picking on the Flames but this is another tough spot for them. Calgary is averaging only 2.1 goals per game on the road (while allowing 3.1) and thats likely not going to be enough to keep up with a Columbus team which is averaging a whopping 4.0 goals per game (while allowing 2.5) here on home ice. The Jackets, who lost last time out, have been money off a loss in recent weeks. They've followed up each of their last three losses with a victory, winning those three games by a combined score of 15-6. I expect them to bounce back again tonight. 

I'm playing on TORONTO 8*. The Canes are on a winning streak. However, with this game being played at Toronto, I expect the Leafs to have the advantage. All of Carolina's recent wins have come at home. On the road, the Canes are an ugly 2-7, getting outscored by an average of 3.4 to 2.7. The Leafs have also had their problems on the road. However, they've been tough to beat here at Toronto. In fact, they're 7-2 here, outscoring teams by an average of 4.1 to 3.1. The Leafs last hosted the Canes last February. Toronto won 3-1. The Leafs are already 3-1 on the season after scoring one goal or less in their previous game, most recently erupting for six goals vs. Nashville. I like their chances of bouncing back with another win here. 

I'm playing on BUFFALO 10* PERS FAV. The Sabres got back on track last time out, snapping a long losing streak. Now, with some momentum on their side and the schedule in their favor, I expect them to make it two in a row. Some of you may recall that I backed the Flames when these teams faced each other back on 10/18. Calgary was winless at the time and desperately needed a victory. My play was based on them being the 'hungrier' team and the fact that the game was being played at Calgary with a former Buffalo goalie (Johnson) getting a crack at his old team. Calgary won 4-3. Tonight's game sets up much differently. If anything, it should be the Sabres who are the hungrier team. The last thing they want is another loss after finally getting the skid snapped. Meanwhile, wiinners of three of their last four, Clagary could be a little more complacent. I noted in my 10/18 writeup that the home team won both meetings last season. With the Flames off a win last night and playing their third game in the past four, I expect the home team to finish on top once again.

I'm playing on DETROIT 8* PERS FAV. The Wings need a victory and a date with one of the weaker teams from the Western Conference should be just what the doctor ordered. Already 4-2 against teams from the West, Detroit is now 38-24 (+9) against Western Conf. opponents, the past 2+ seasons. That includes a 4-2 win over the Flames in the most recent meeting. Note that the Wings were laying -180 for that one. While the Wings aren't scoring a ton of goals, they're still averaging more than the Flames. Calgary, which is now without Gaudreau, is managing a mere 1.6 goals over its past five games and just 2.0 per road game on the season. Look for the Wings, who average 2.9 here at home, to bounce back, improving to 12-8 their last 20, after having lost their previous three or more games in a row. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 5* BC. The Capitals are obviously pretty steep favorites here. However, I don't seem them letting this game get away and feel that the price could in fact be even higher. The Jackets, 1-8 their last nine Sunday games have an "easier" game vs. Colorado tomorrow. The Caps don't play for a few days after this, so have nothing to look forward to and can leave it all on the ice. Given that the Jackets just beat them at Columbus on 11/15, I expect them to do exactly that. The Caps, 39-18 (+12.8) their last 57 at home with an O/U line of less than 5.5, are a dominating 55-30 (+18.7) the past 2+ seasons when playing with 'revenge.' They were laying -230 the last time they hosted the Jackets. That resulted in a 4-1 win, the Caps outshooting Columbus by a commanding 40-22 margin. Payback time. 

I'm playing on SJ 8* ANNIHILATOR. When these teams played earlier, the Sharks fired 41 shots but only managed two goals. Arizona won 3-2. That'll have the Sharks looking for some payback tonight; they're 56-35 (+12.4) the past 2+ seasons, when attempting to avenge an earlier loss. The Coyotes are really struggling, as they've lost four straight. They'll have a better chance of getting on track against Vancouver in their next game though, as they're an ugly 20-62 (-30.5) their last 82 against teams with a winning record. While the Coyotes are a money-burning 9-23 (-14) the last 32 times that they played a home game with an O/U line of less than 5.5, during the same stretch, the Sharks are 33-22 (+11.2) when playing a road game with an O/U line of less than 5.5. I'm going with the revenge-minded Sharks to close out their road trip with a win. 

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS 10* PERS FAV. While I respect the Predators, they're not as good away from Nashville and this is a tough place to play. Even with a 5-1 win at Ottawa in their last game, the Preds are still just 2-7 on the road. They've been outscored by an average of 3.8 to 2.7 in those games. While the Preds are giving up nearly four goals per game on the road, the Blues are allowing a mere 1.7 per game here at St. Louis. They've won seven of 10 here. The Preds are a money-burning 19-30 the past 2+ seasons off a win by two or more goals and an even worse 19-35 (-28.5!) after scoring four or more goals in their previous game. The Blues, who will be looking to avenge an earlier loss at Nashville, have taken four of the last five home meetings in this series. The're 49-35 (+7.4) when playing with 'revenge' the past 2+ seasons and I look for them to get some payback tonight.

I'm playing on LA 10* ANNIHILATOR. I like how this one sets up for the home team and feel that the price could easily be higher. I backed the Kings in their last game and they rewarded me with a 4-2 win. That victory snapped a losing streak and should provide some positive momentum. I also sucessfully played against the Devils in their last game, as they came up short against the Ducks. That loss snapped a 5-game winning streak and may be of the 'deflating' variety. Note that the Devils are just 31-51 the past 2+ seasons when playing a road game with an O/U line of less than 5.5. The Kings were laying -260 the last time (last March) that they hosted the Devils. NJ's recent win streak notwithstanding, I don't think that much has changed to warrant such a difference in price. I'm going with the Kings, again. 

I'm playing on LA 8* ANNIHILATOR. Both teams are on losing streaks. Playing on home ice, I expect the Kings to be the team which bounces back with a win. The Oilers are an ugly 19-44 (-17.2) the past 2+ seasons, off a loss by two or more goals. During that time, they're 19-29 after losing their previous three or more games. Losing streaks haven't been nearly as common for the Kings but they tend to snap them quickly when they occur. During the same time, they're 13-3 (+9.7) after losing three or more in a row. The Kings have dominated the Oilers here and I expect that to continue for another night. 

I'm playing on ANAHEIM 10* PERS FAV. Sure, the Devils are on a bit of a roll right now. Lets keep in mind that they're still just 3-5 on the road though and also that they just lost Taylor Hall to injury. Now, they're at a very tough venue against a team which has found its groove and which has payback on its mind. The Ducks had dominated the Devils in recent seasons, prior to a 2-1 Devils' win, at NJ, last month. While the Devils are 31-50 (-7.1) the past couple of seasons when playing a road game with an O/U line of less than 5.5, the Ducks are 38-19 (+7.4) at home with an O/U line of less than 5.5. This season, the Ducks are outscoring teams by a 3.4 to 2.1 margin at home while the Devils are getting outscored by a 2.2 to 2.0 mark on the road. The Ducks were laying -260 the last time they hosted the Devis, a 7-1 destruction last March. I feel this line could also easily be higher and expect them to finish on top once again.

I'm playing on PHILADELPHIA 8* ROAST. The Jets are off a 4-0 home win over Chicago. They're not the same team on the road though. In eight road games, they've been oustscored by an average score of 3.0 to 2.4, going 3-5. Its also worth noting that they're a money-burning 31-51 (-20.2) the last 82 times that they were off a win by two or more goals, 19-30 (-10.2) the past couple of seasons. The Flyers, who are outscoring teams by a slight 3.4 to 3.3 margin here at home, have dominated the Jets in recent seasons. I expect a highly motivated effort from them tonight, as they bounce back and improve to 30-19 their last 49 home games with a total of 5.5. 

I'm playing on ANAHEIM 10* PERS FAV. I successfully played against the Ducks in their last game, a 5-0 loss at Nashville. Even at the time, however, I stated that I "respected them" and felt that they were a strong team. Rested and back home in sunny Southern California, I expect the Ducks to bounce back right away. Anaheim is 28-16 (+6.6) the past couple of seasons, afters scoring one goal or less in its previous game. During that span, the Ducks are also 24-10 (+12.2) after playing their previous three on the road, 45-23 (+12.2) against divisional opponents, 26-13 (+9.1) when playing with two day's rest and 37-19 (+6.4) when playing at home with an O/U line of less than 5.5. During the same stretch, the Oilers who have cooled off with three straight losses, are 17-35 (-11.9) after scoring one goal or less and 19-43 (-16.2) off a loss by two or more goals. The Ducks, who have dominated the Oilers in recent years, were laying -265 the last time they hosted them. They won that one 2-1, outshooting the Oilers 34-18. While today's price is obviously far more reasonable, I expect the end result to be the same. 

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS 5* ANNIHILATOR. Both teams are on losing streaks but the Blues should be the team which snaps their skid tonight. For starters, the Blues are a much stronger team. They're well-coached and playing at home. Opposing teams are only scoring 1.7 goals per game here. The Blues have absolutely owned the Sabres over the years, including a 4-0 mark the past couple of seasons. While the Sabres are 10-22 (-7.5) the past 32 times that they played with two day's rest in between games, the Blues are 25-14 (+5.8) in that situation, during the same span. I'm confident that they'll improve on those stats tonight and am laying the large number. 

I'm playing on PHILADELPHIA 10* PERS FAV. The Sens have the better record overall. However, I feel that the Flyers are favored for good reason. Off a win last time out, the Flyers are the team which comes in with some positive momentum. The 3-2 victory over the Wild snapped a 3-game slide. While the Flyers are scoring an impressive 3.6 goals per game on home ice, the Sens are being outscored by an average of 2.3 to 1.8 on the road. In fact, the Sens have failed to score more than two goals in six straight games now, scoring less than two in four of those. Ottawa is now 28-35 on the road, the past couple of seasons, when the O/U line was 5.5. During that span, the Flyers were 29-18 (+7.1) when playing at home, with an O/U line of 5.5. The Flyers, who have won two straight in this series, were laying -200 the last time these teams met. Philly won that won by a 3-2 margin. While tonight's price is obviously far more reasonable, I expect the end result to be the same. 

I'm playing on CHICAGO 8* SPECIAL. While both teams are red hot, the schedule and venue favor the Hawks. Chicago had last night off, after losing to Washington the previous day. The last time that they lost a game, the Hawks responded by reeling off seven straight victories. While the Habs were certainly impressive in last night's 5-0 win, they're expected to give their #1 goalie (Price) the night off here; Montoya isn't at the same level. (With last night's win, Price is now 10-0.) Also, they're just 6-9 (-5.7) the last 15 times that they were off a shutout win. The Hawks have dominated the Habs in recent seasons, most recently sweeping a home-and-home series back in January. They were laying more than -200 for that home game (a 5-2 win) and given the schedule and the fact that Price is likely out, I feel this line could also easily be higher. 

I'm playing on COLORADO 10* PERS FAV. The Bruins won again last night, as they continue to roll with Rask between the pipes. However, playing the second leg of a b2b situation, we may well see McIntyre. He's 0-2 with an GAA above four. Either way, I expect the Avs to have the edge. Already 0-2 in that situation this season, the Bruins are an ugly 10-19 (-9.6) the past 2+ seasons when playing the second of b2b games. During that stretch, they're an even worse 24-35 (-19.9) against Western Conf. teams. The Avs got back on track with a win last time out. I look for them to carry the positive momemtum into tonight's game, taking advantage of the favorable schedule en route to earning an important two points.