5*St. Louis Blues +141

The Jets defeated the Blues 5-2, despite getting outshot 42-25 earlier this month in St. Louis. The Blues are ranked #1 in Face-Off win percentage and they are the much more disciplined team. Take the St. Louis Blues at a juicy price!

3*New Jersey Devils -136

3*Carolina Hurricanes +151

4*Dallas Stars -113

The Stars matchup against the Maple Leafs with a fast offense and big mobile defense. Toronto is coming off a fast-paced high-scoring contest and now must play another road game. Tough. Dallas looks good in this spot.

3*San Jose Sharks +100

This will be the LA Kings first game of the season while San Jose has one game under their belt. The Sharks lost 5-2 despite outshooting the Ducks 33-15 on Wednesday. Light play on the road team.

5*Winnipeg Jets -133

The Jets have lost three in a row despite outshooting Vegas in all three games. In fact, the Jets went 2-0 after losing three games in a row during the regular season. Closeout games are always the toughest and the Golden Knights are a relatively young team. Winnipeg is 23-9 in their past 32 games after scoring 2 goals or less. Take the hungry host!

4*San Jose Sharks -140

4*Boston Bruins -145

The Bruins have lost two in a row and have yet to play a complete game in this series. I would expect a huge effort at home after some line shuffling to shake things up. Take the hungry host!

4*San Jose Sharks -125

I like the Sharks to get the win at home in game four with or without Joe Thornton.

5*Nashville Predators -168

Nashville lost game one despite outshooting the Jets 48-19. In fact, Winnipeg has been outshot in three straight postseason games. This is a must play on the home team!

4*Nashville Predators -145

4*Columbus Blue Jackets +100

The Blue Jackets have lost three straight and John Tortorella should have his guys extremely motivated. I love the fact that Columbus outshot the Capitals 42-29 in Saturday's OT loss. Take the hungry host!

4*Washington Capitals +125

5*LA Kings -140

The Kings allowed a season-high 56 shots on goal and now return home down 0-2 in this best of seven series. The Golden Knights are a younger team having to deal with the fact they are up 2-0. Tough. NHL teams returning home after allowing 50+ shots-on-goal are 11-1 in the postseason of late. The Kings have a lot of pride and should bounce back after that ugly performance on Friday. Take the hungry host!

5*New Jersey Devils -142

This will be the Hurricanes' third game in four days and they are 1-10 in that role of late. They also played a very physical game yesterday getting hit 36 times. The Devils want that wild card spot and are in a familiar role. New Jersey is 9-2-2 when playing with two days of rest. The Devils score 3.68 goals while allowing 2.68 with extra rest. New Jersey is 11-5 in the past 16 meetings at home. Take the hungry host!

3*Washington Capitals -113

This will be the third game in four days for the Jets and they have a big division tilt on deck against Nashville. The Capitals are a really good home team and they are 12-3 against the Jets at home of late. Washington is 30-12 after scoring 2 goals or less. The Jets have some injury concerns. Take the host!

5*Nashville Predators -127

The Predators are ranked significantly higher in shot differential and goal differential. They are big and fast. A tough matchup for this current "nicked" up Avs squad to deal with. Colorado has lost nine of the past 10 head-to-head meetings. Nashville is ranked 4th (52.8%) in Face-off win percentage while Colorado is ranked 31st (last). They are one of the worst Hockey teams in that category in quite some time (43.9%). I also like playing against NHL teams that scored 7 goals or more if facing a winning team. The Preds lead the West with 91 points. Take the road team!

4*San Jose Sharks -131

I think the Sharks will be focused at home after losing three straight games. Edmonton ranks behind the Sharks in almost every important stat I look for when handicapping Hockey. Check this out. The Oilers are 1-11 in their last 12 games after scoring 5 goals or more. San Jose is 3-1 after losing three or more straight games this season. Take the hungry host!

5*St. Louis Blues -115

Winnipeg has scored 16 goals in their past three games and now must hit the road. Tough. This will be the Jets' first road game since January 30th. Very tough. The Jets have been sub-par when playing with two days of rest, allowing 3.27 goals per game. On the flip side, the Blues are one of the best teams with two days of rest, allowing just 2.31 goals per contest. St. Louis has lost three straight games by one goal. Take the hungry host!

4*Minnesota Wild -116

Great spot for the road team. The Wild have lost two straight games despite outshooting both foes by a combined 72-58 mark. The Islanders have won two straight even though they were outshot in both games by combined 95-57 tally. In fact, the Islanders are ranked 31st (-313) in shot differential this season. New York also ranks dead last (31st) in goals allowed (3.51 per game) this season. I also like the fact that the Islanders have played 60 games while Minnesota has played 58 so far this season, and this is an early start. Check this out. The Wild are 7-1 this season after losing two or more consecutive games. Minnesota is a well-coached bunch so take the Wild in this Presidents Day afternoon tilt. 

5*Pittsburgh Penguins -130

Toronto has scored 16 goals in their past three games, and now must play the Penguins on the road who will be looking for some payback. The Maple Leafs defeated Pittsburgh on the road by one goal despite getting outshot 36-25 back in December. Toronto has won five games in a row despite getting outshot in all but one of those games. Pittsburgh is ranked 2nd (+187) in shot differential while the Maple Leafs are ranked 24th (-144) this season. The Penguins have won eight of the past 11 meetings in Pittsburgh. Another!

3*St. Louis Blues +137

4*Nashville Predators -138

The Preds have lost two straight games in OT/Shootout despite outshooting both opponents. Nashville gets Filip Forsberg back which should add some energy to the entire team. The Predators are one of the best teams in face-off win percentage while Montreal is one of the worst. The Canadiens are 10-26 in their past 36 games against the Central. Take Nashville!

5*St. Louis Blues -130

The Blues are the more talented team in my opinion. Minnesota does most of its damage at home. The Wild are allowing 3.65 GPG on the road. St. Louis is ranked 4th (+141) in shot differential while Minnesota is ranked 22nd (-99) this season. The Wild defeated St. Louis in OT back in December despite getting outshot 42-25. St. Louis is 33-17 when playing with two days of rest over the past three years. Take the Blues in this spot!

3*Edmonton Oilers +120

3*Nashville Predators -130

5*Boston Bruins -117

The Bruins are ranked 5th (+133) in shot differential while the Maple Leafs are ranked 22nd (-96) this season. Toronto has played four more games than the Bruins so far this season. Tough. Boston has revenge on their minds from a 4-1 home loss back in November. We note that the Bruins outshot Toronto 39-25 in that game. Take the host!

4*LA Kings -114

The LA Kings are the more talented team in my opinion. Vancouver is coming off back-to-back rivalry games, having just played Edmonton and Winnipeg on consecutive days. The Canucks are returning home from a long seven games in 15 days road trip. Tough. Also, the host is 9-18 against teams with a winning record while the Kings are 16-7 against losing teams this season. Take the Kings in this one!

5*St. Louis Blues -116

The Blues are ranked 4th (+139) in shot differential while the Senators are ranked 19th (-74) this season. Ottawa hasn't played in eight days. Tough. The host is 0-4 in their last four tries playing with 3 or more days of rest. The Senators are 1-7 against the Western Conference of late. The Blues are 21-10 in their last 31 against the East. St. Louis is by far the more talented team in my opinion. Great value. Take the Blues!

4*Carolina Hurricanes -115

The Flames have won six straight games, but they have been outshot in their past three by an 82-112 margin. That's a red flag especially for a team playing its 4th road game in six days. The Hurricanes are a real Hockey team, ranking #1 in shot differential (+236). Carolina should enjoy a big advantage in Face-Offs won and they are the much more disciplined team. In fact, the Hurricanes have spent the fewest minutes in the penalty box while Flames have the spent the third most this season. Take the Hurricanes! 

3*Chicago Blackhawks -107

4*LA Kings -115

The LA Kings have extra incentive to win this game. After this contest, the host will be off for the next 7 days. A win means they get an extra day with their family/friends, while a loss means more practice time. The Kings lost in OT against Nashville despite outshooting them 39-31 back in November. Take the LA Kings in this spot!

5*St. Louis Blues -117

The Blues are ranked 4th in shot differential (+135) and certainly matchup pretty well with the Golden Knights. Vegas defeated St. Louis in OT at home despite getting outshot 49-22 back in late October. Take the Blues in this spot!

4*San Jose Sharks -102

The Sharks are coming off a non-effort while the Canadiens are returning home from a long road trip. I see mismatches that favors the Sharks. San Jose has won the past five meetings and I believe they will make it six.

3*Chicago Blackhawks -125

I see a lot of advantages for the Blackhawks even without starting goalie Corey Crawford. Chicago is really good with extra time to prepare and they are coming off two straight losses. Chicago is ranked 9th in shot differential (+77) while Vancouver is ranked 23rd (-79). Take the road team!

3*Chicago Blackhawks +103

The Blackhawks lost a home and home with Dallas right before this current win streak of five. I'll take the better offense and defense with Chicago to make it six straight victories. 

4*Chicago Blackhawks +113

The Blackhawks are a sneaky good team although their record doesn't indicate that. Chicago will be looking to win its fourth straight game knowing the Jets are ranked 23rd (-69) in shot differential. Chicago is ranked 9th (+44) and playing the Jets without their star defenseman Dustin Byfuglien should really benefit the road dog. The Blackhawks know how to win in Winnipeg, cashing 10 of the past 12 meetings. The Jets are allowing 3.40 goals per game when playing with two days of rest. The really good teams normally allow less than 2.50 GPG with two days of rest. Take Chicago!

10*St. Louis Blues +103

For starters, I think the Blues are the more talented team. They are tremendous when playing with 2 days of the rest in their past 54 tries (37-17). They are 5-2 this season, scoring 3.43 goals per game while allowing just 2.14 goals per contest. Both are ranked tops in the league. On the flip side, Montreal is just 1-3-1 with two days of rest, allowing 3.20 goals per game. The Blues and Canadiens are ranked 3rd and 4th respectively in shot differential. However, the host has been outshot in four of the past six games, winning five straight with smoke and mirrors. The Blues have lost three straight games despite outshooting their opponent in all three games by a 121-83 margin. Lets not forget that Montreal scored 10 goals in their last game. NHL teams are 13-35 SU after scoring 7 or more goals against winning teams. At the end of the day, Montreal is allowing more goals (3.04) than they score (2.75) so far this season. The Blues are 8-3 in their past 11 meetings against Montreal. I thought St. Louis would open as a slight favorite.  Great value. Take the Blues!

4*Carolina Hurricanes -110

The Hurricanes are ranked #1 in shot differential (+125) while the Maple Leafs are ranked #27 (-62). In fact, Toronto has been outshot in eight of their past nine games. Carolina is coming off a game in which they allowed 6 goals at home. I would expect a bounce back effort from the host, who owns the better face-off win percentage and is by far the more disciplined team.

3*St. Louis Blues -133

I really like this Blues team as it's currently constructed. They have size, speed, tremendous skill, and a great coaching staff. These guys know how to practice so that every player is game ready. A handful of glaring stats that says to fade the Canucks in this spot. First off, they aren't that good ranking 18th in shot differential (-17). The Blues are ranked 9th with a +51 shot differential. They have outshot its foe in nine of the past 10 games, good for a 7-3 record. Vancouver has outshot its opponent in just four of their past 10 games, good for a 4-6 record. Find me the NHL team that wins the shooting stats and you will win close to 70%. Lastly, the Canucks are 5-21 SU in their past 26 home games. Looks like a misprint but it's not. Take the road chalk!

4*St. Louis Blues +109

The Blues are coming off an embarrassing loss, giving up 7 goals at Calgary. St. Louis has two days to prepare for the Oilers. The Blues are 28-15 in this role over the past three seasons, including 2-1 this year. Edmonton is coming off a game were they scored a season-high 8 goals. NHL losing teams are just 11-34 after scoring 7 or more goals when playing teams with a winning record of late. I'll take the Blues in this spot.

3*Philadelphia Flyers +140

4*Washington Capitals -116

The Penguins have the worst defense on the road out of all the winning teams. The Capitals were ousted by Pittsburgh in last year's playoffs and than lost by 1 goal in October. Washington is 25-9 after scoring one goal or less over the past three seasons. The host is also 22-10 when playing with two days of rest over the past three seasons. Take the Caps!

4*Minnesota Wild -136

The Wild lost to the Jets by one goal despite outshooting Winnipeg 29-19 on Monday. Minnesota is by far the more talented team especially playing at home. Montreal has scored 13 goals in their past two games and now face a tough road test against a hungry team. The Canadiens are 0-3 after playing a division game this season. Montreal is allowing 4.14 goals when playing on the road this year. I think this line will close much higher so get down ASAP.

4*St. Louis Blues -120

The LA Kings played a very physical game against Boston on Saturday (2-1 OT win with 1 second remaining), getting hit 35 times. This will be their sixth road game in 9 days, and coming off an emotional victory. Tough. The Blues have a big mobile defense and solid depth on offense. St. Louis is allowing just 1.7 goals at home this season. Take the host!

4*Detroit Red Wings +135

NHL teams have been a solid play against after scoring 7 goals or more in their previous game. Especially losing teams. The Red Wings should be motivated to end its 6-game losing skein before returning home. Florida was outshot 34-22 in that 8-3 victory over Anaheim and have now been outshot in their past four games. The Red Wings are 11-5-1 in their past 17 meetings in Florida. Great value on the road dog!

4*Minnesota Wild -125

5*Carolina Hurricanes -110

Tampa Bay is coming off an emotional 7-1 victory over the defending Stanley Cup Champions. Carolina plays stifling defense while the Lightning are allowing more shots (316) than they take (272). Carolina has played three fewer games than TB and I look for a prime effort from the host. Take the Hurricanes!

4*Columbus Blue Jackets -125

This is a really talented team folks. They have size, speed, and tremendous skill across the board. Once their Power Play (currently 1-for-16) gets going, look out! Tampa Bay will be playing its 4th road game in 6 nights. Tough. The Lightning are allowing more shots than they take. Take the host!

3*Toronto Maple Leafs +130

The Capitals are very young on their blue line right now. It shows, as Washington is allowing more shots than they take. The host ousted the Maple Leafs from last year's postseason. Take the road dog!

5*Washington Capitals -126

The Caps have yet to outshoot any opponent so far this season, but a visit from the back-to-back defending Stanley Cup Champions should change that. Washington lost six in seven games to these Penguins in the East Finals, despite outshooting Pittsburgh 219-161. In fact, the road team has eliminated the host from the playoffs in the past two seasons. Washington has been waiting for this game for quite some time. Take the Caps!

4*Carolina Hurricanes -115

This is a team on the rise and I think they are extremely motivated to start fast. The Hurricanes are my 2017-18 NHL Eastern Conference Spotlight Team and should be much improved with a top-notch goalie. Scott Darling was spectacular last season going 18-5-5 with a 2.38 GAA and .924 win percentage. In his career, Darling sports a 39-17-9 record with a 2.37 GAA and .923 win percentage. He's an upgrade over Cam Ward, who is not too shabby in his own right. Carolina went 10-2-5 last March and will be looking to get off to a better start this season. Take the hungry host!

3*Nashville Predators +118

The Predators are extremely talented and I like how they matchup against this Bruins' team who will be without some key players. Take Nashville! 

10*Nashville Predators -129

Yes, the Predators are down 0-2 despite the fact they outshot Pittsburgh 64-39 in the first two games combined. Nashville had a lot more scoring chances as well. I think the home crowd will give Nashville an extra boost in this must-win game. The Penguins have played three more games than Nashville in the postseason and this could be a flat spot for the road team. It has been in the past for most Hockey teams. Goalie Pekka Rinne has been stingy at home this season going 28-14 with a 92.5 save percentage, including 8-1 after two or more consecutive losses. Look for the home team improve to 6-0 the past six meetings. Take the hungry host!

5*Nashville Predators +102

I think the Preds have a great shot at stealing game one in Anaheim. The Ducks are coming off a very physical 7-game series against the Oilers with a very short turnaround. Anaheim has also played one extra game during the postseason. Nashville is 8-2 in these playoffs, scoring just under 3 goals per contest while allowing just 1.8 goals per game. Anaheim is 8-3, scoring 3.2 goals while giving up 3.0 goals per game. The Predators are very physical and have been dynamite when facing tired teams. Pekka Rinne ranks No. 1 in save percentage (95.1) in the postseason. The road team won five of the seven postseason meetings last year. Take Nashville!

3*St. Louis Blues +155

4*St. Louis Blues -109

Closeout games are always the toughest in a best-of-seven series and the home team has won eight of the past 10 meetings. The Blues are more accustomed to playing with two days of rest this season going 11-6-2, while Nashville has gone 7-4-1. This series continues so take the host!

5*Washington Capitals +111

The Capitals have dropped the first two despite outshooting Pittsburgh 71-45 in both games combined. In fact, the Penguins have been outshot in nine of the their past 10 games played. That's a red flag. Washington has been one of the most profitable teams when listed as the underdog this decade. They have a +5.4 shot differential while cashing 35 of the past 50 games. Lets take the team with the better defense, goalie and hungry for a victory.

5*Anaheim Ducks +112

The Ducks are down 0-2 in this series despite outshooting Edmonton 76-55 in the two games combined. In fact, the Oilers have been outshot in three straight playoff games and five of their past six postseason tilts. This is a great spot for the road team after dishing out 32 hits in the game two setback. Anaheim is 14-6 of late after scoring 1 goal or less in their previous contest. Take the Ducks! 

10*St. Louis Blues -117

The Blues have been fantastic when playing with extra rest while the Predators have not going 1-6 this season. Nashville is coming off a sweep against the Chicago Blackhawks and before that the Predators were just 2-3 in April. NHL Playoff teams struggle mightily when playing with 6 or more days of rest. The Blues are 6-1 in the last seven meetings in St. Louis and 8-2 overall this month. Take the home team!

4*Edmonton Oilers -129

The Oilers return home after an embarrassing loss knowing they are 14-7 after allowing 4 goals or more this season. Also, NHL home teams are 22-8 after allowing 6 or more goals from April to June. Take the Oilers!

5*Minnesota Wild -105

I think it's very difficult to sweep a best of seven against a very talented team. Minnesota has outshot the Blues in all three games in which two tilts were decided by one goal. St. Louis is allowing more shots than they take which is a red flag. I like the Wild in this game!

5*Columbus Blue Jackets -118

The Blue Jackets should be ready at home after outshooting the Penguins in both losses. Columbus has committed way too many penalties which they should correct, and improve to 9-2 when playing on Sunday this season. Take the hungry host!

5*Carolina Hurricanes +120

Carolina is fighting for a wild card spot and currently ranked 5th in shot differential. The Blue Jackets have been outshot 123-80 in their past three games, luckily winning two of them. Carolina lost to Columbus by one goal despite outshooting the Blue Jackets 37-20 in late January. Columbus has a big game on deck against the Blackhawks on Friday. Take Carolina in this spot!

5*LA Kings -125

The Kings are ranked No. 2 in shot differential and certainty matchup pretty well against this Rangers' team. New York has not played well on defense when playing with two days of rest. One of the worst of all the winning teams. The Kings lost to the Rangers by one goal despite outshooting New York 38-17 at MSG in late January. Take the Kings!

5*Boston Bruins -121

The Bruins lost to the Maple Leafs by one goal despite outshooting them 41-26 on Feb. 4th. Toronto is 3-0 against Boston this season despite getting outshot 99-70 in those three games combined. Boston is ranked #1 in shot differential and #3 in Face-Off win percentage. Toronto has been outshot in their last five games and will be facing a pissed off Bruins' squad that allowed 7 goals in their last game. The Bruins are 9-1 in their past 10 games after allowing six or more goals. Boston is 24-13 against losing teams this season, while the Maple Leafs are just 8-17 when playing against teams with a winning record. Take the Bruins!

4*LA Kings +104

The Kings are fighting for their playoff lives and ranked 2nd in shot differential in all of Hockey. These are teams you want to play on down the stretch. Los Angeles is 7-3 this season when playing with two days of rest and should be a tough matchup against the Flames in this spot. The Kings are playing with revenge from a one goal loss in Calgary less than one month ago. The Kings have gone 12-1 in these types of revenge games of late. Take the road team!

3*Calgary Flames +104

The Flames are the more talented team and playing their best Hockey of the season. Calgary is 23-11 this season when playing with revenge. The Jets are ranked 23rd in shot differential while the Flames are ranked 9th. Take the road team!

3*Montreal Canadiens +113

10*Carolina Hurricanes -123

This matchup pits my Western Conf. Spotlight team taking on my Eastern Conf. Spotlight team. The Hurricanes have scored just seven goals in their past six games, with three of those tallies coming in Friday's shutout victory against Ottawa. They are ready to breakout against a Flames' squad that will be playing its fifth road game in eight days. Check this out. Calgary has played 62 games while Carolina has played a league-low 57 games so far this season. That five-game difference matters in Hockey even with extra rest built in. The Hurricanes are ranked 5th (27.9) in shots against and have been playing suffocating defense at home. Calgary has allowed the most penalties minutes while the Hurricanes have allowed the fewest. Look for the home team improve to 10-2 in the past 12 meetings. Take Carolina in this one!

4*Calgary Flames +128

This will be Tampa Bay's fourth contest in five days and played a physical game (29 hits) against Edmonton on Tuesday. Calgary ranks 7th in shots against (28.2) and has revenge on their mind from a 6-3 home loss in December. The Flames are 9-4 revenging a home loss this season while the Lightning are 5-13 after a win by two goals or more. Take the Flames!

5*St. Louis Blues -135

The Panthers have won four straight games, but have been outshot in their past three by a total of 107-78. Florida has scored 20 goals in their past four tilts and now must play a road game. That's tough. The Blues are 7-1 in the past eight meetings and have been playing stifling defense (1.90 GAA) in their past 10 games. St. Louis is 24-12 in February over the past three seasons and should enjoy a decided advantage in Face-offs won. St. Louis is ranked 7th in Power Play Percentage & 4th in Penalty Kill percentage. NHL teams tend to struggle after playing the LA Kings. Take the Blues in this spot!

4*Columbus Blue Jackets -115

The Blue Jackets are one of a few Hockey teams that can matchup with the skillful Penguins. Speaking of Pittsburgh, they played a very physical overtime game on Thursday. The Jets dished out 49 hits against the Penguins. That's a lot. Columbus will be looking to win back-to-back games in almost a month and should be pumped up at home. The Blue Jackets have a good chance considering they are 9-1 on Friday nights this season. Columbus has one of the better defenses at home this season, allowing just 2.21 GPG. Take the Blue Jackets! 

5*New York Islanders +101

The Islanders are playing at a much higher level than what we saw earlier this season. They have a plus +5 Shot differential in their past 10 games. The Rangers have won six in a row but they have been outshot in their past four tilts. That tends to catch up with teams playing on the road. The Rangers have not enjoyed playing with two days of rest this season. They are just 5-5, while allowing 3.70 GPG. The Islanders are 5-1 in their past six games after allowing 5 goals or more. NHL teams are 33-10 after allowing 7 or more goals per game. I like the home team in this spot!

5*LA Kings -105

The Kings should be focused knowing they have lost two straight games by a combined score of 10-0, which breaks down as two 5-0 setbacks. This will be last game for Los Angeles as they are headed for an extended break (6 days), which is considered their BYE week. The Kings are ranked No. 2 in shot differential (+5.4) and No. 1 in shots against (25.5) this season. Over their past 10 games, the Kings are allowing just 23.9 shots per contest, which you rarely see these days. I think the Kings are poised for a huge winning run and will be a tough matchup for these Panthers. Los Angeles has dominated this series going 13-3 in the past 16 meetings. More of the same! 

4*New York Islanders +100

Detroit really misses No. 1 goalie Jimmy Howard and his 1.96 GAA. He remains out for at least another two weeks as he recovers from a right MCL sprain. The Islanders are 7-3 in their past 10 games, scoring 3.30 goals per contest while allowing just 2.10 goals per game. On the flip side, the Red Wings are 3-7 in their past 10 games, allowing 3.30 goals per game. New York owns the better offense, defense, Power Play, Penalty Kill, Goalie, and are the more disciplined team. Detroit is 6-16 this season after allowing 4 goals or more and 6-16 in their last 22 home tilts. Take the Islanders in this revenge upset maker!

5*Carolina Hurricanes -125

The Hurricanes should be focused knowing they have lost five straight games. This is key because NHL winning home teams that have lost five or more straight games have been a huge money maker in their first game after the All-Star break. Carolina is a sneaky good team going 14-4 in their past 18 home games, while ranking 5th in shots against per game (27.8) this season. Philadelphia is allowing 4.00 goals per game when playing with three or more days rest this season and Carolina is the more disciplined team by a wide margin. Take Carolina!

5*New York Islanders +105

Montreal is coming off a physical game against the Flames, getting hit 32 times while also blocking 16 shots. Note, the Canadiens were outshot 31-20, despite winning by four goals. The Islanders are playing more like the team we witnessed last season, going 4-1 in their last five games, while allowing just 1.4 goals per game. They are coming off a very impressive victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets who I believe are better than this Montreal team will put on the Ice. The Canadiens are without several key players and will be missed as the Islanders are eager to snap a 7-game losing skein against Montreal. Take the hungry host!

10*Carolina Hurricanes +115

The Penguins have scored 12 goals in their past two games and now must play a road game against a talented club. Tough. Especially since the Hurricanes have revenge on their minds after a one goal road loss back in December, despite outshooting the Penguins 46-26. Carolina has stats across-the-board that reflect a winning team, and everyone knows I liked the Hurricanes before the season started as my Eastern Conference Spotlight Team. The Penguins have committed 182 penalties in 44 games, while the host has committed just 124 in 44 games. Carolina is ranked No. 1 in fewest penalties committed and enter this revenger with the much better defense. Carolina is allowing 2.45 goals at home, while Pittsburgh is allowing 3.33 goals on the road. Carolina is ranked 7th in Face-Off win percentage, while Pittsburgh is ranked 26th. Take the home team in this upset maker!

4*Minnesota Wild -123

The Wild are averaging 4.10 goals per game while allowing 2.60 during the past 10 games. In fact, they are improving schematically on offense, defense, and special teams throughout the season. They are clearly the more talented team and should be focused considering they have revenge from a one-goal loss in November, a game where top goalie Devan Dubnyk did not play. He's 6"6 and one of the best goalies in all of hockey, sporting a 22-7-3 record, 1.77 GAA, and .940 save percentage this season. Dallas is coming off a phony 5-2 home win over the Red Wings, despite getting outshot 33-21. The Stars have played three more games than Minnesota at this point of the campaign. The Wild are ranked 6th in Face-Off win percentage, while the Stars are ranked 17th. Dallas has committed 191 penalties in 43 games, while Minnesota has committed 147 in 40 games. The Wild are 14-8 in revenge games this season. The Stars are just 5-12 against teams with a winning record. Dallas is 1-8 after a win by two goals or more. Take the Wild!

4*San Jose Sharks -106

The Sharks have played two fewer games than the Oilers and will be playing with extra practice time. San Jose is 33-17 when playing with two days of rest over the past three seasons, including 7-3 this year. The Sharks are ranked third in shot differential (+3.6) and matchup favorably against this Oilers squad. Edmonton is just 5-10 against winning teams this season. The Sharks are 24-9 in the past 33 head-to-head meetings. Again!

3*Washington Capitals +100

The Capitals have won five straight and will be playing with revenge from a one-goal loss in December. Washington is 62-32 in revenge games over the past three seasons, including 13-5 this year. Montreal is just 9-10 against teams with a winning record and will be returning home after a 7-game road trip. Take the road dog!

5*Washington Capitals -127

I mentioned the Blue Jackets were a "strong buy" on the first day of their 16-game winning streak. I certainly didn't think they would win 16 in a row. Washington has played Columbus twice this season, both one goal losses. This sets up one of the best systems in all of Hockey handicapping. Play on home teams with a winning record if they lost the previous two same season head-to-head meetings by one goal. This system doesn't happen often, but when it does it has cashed nearly 75% of the time. Take the host!

4*Boston Bruins +135

The Bruins are ranked No. 1 in shot differential (+6.6) this season and No. 4 in Face-off win percentage. They are a real team. Bruins Goalie Tuukka Rask is 7-2-0 with a 1.99 GAA against the Blue Jackets, including the two victories this season. NHL teams that have won 9 or more games in a row tend to struggle after 3 or more days of rest. Boston knows how to beat the Blue Jackets and I think they do it again. Take the road dog!

4*Washington Capitals -115

The Flyers will be playing with playoff revenge, but the home team has played four more games than the Capitals. That's a big factor for a Capitals' team that has the superior defense and will be playing with extra rest. Washington is 28-13 after scoring one goal or less over the past three seasons. This a well-coached veteran team that should be primed for a huge winning run. The Flyers have a big game against the Devils on Thursday. Take the Caps!

4*Chicago Blackhawks -124

The Blackhawks are the more talented team and continue to get disrespected by Vegas. Backup goalie Scott Darling is more than capable, while Corey Crawford waits to return around Christmas. Scott is a giant in goal standing 6 feet 6 inches and has an impressive .966 save percentage in his past five starts. On the season, Darling is 7-2-2 with a 2.02 GAA and .933 save percentage, proving to be one of the best backups in the league. He faced the Islanders last season in a 4-1 Blackhawks' victory at home. Although Chicago has played three more games than New York so far this season, its just a one game difference since December 1st. Chicago is ranked 3rd in fewest penalty minutes per game (6.9) and 6th in goals against. The Blackhawks are 58-35 against teams with a losing record over the past three seasons, including 10-5 this year. The Islanders are 5-11 against winning teams this season. 

5*Columbus Blue Jackets +100

I mentioned the Blue Jackets were a "Strong Buy" almost two weeks ago and they have been fantastic. Columbus has a talented roster and flying under the radar with the odds-makers. Columbus should be favored in this game even on the road. The Blue Jackets have played 26 games, while the Oilers have played 31. That's a five-game difference and very tough for the host. The visitors love playing with two days of rest going 4-1 so far this season. Lets ride the Blue Jackets winning streak once again!

4*Boston Bruins +135

The Canadiens defeated the Bruins on November 8th by one goal despite getting outshot 43-23. Boston has outshot its opponent in four straight games and the Bruins are ranked 1st in shot differential (6.1) so far this season. Montreal is allowing more shots (860) than they take (846). Take the road dog in this spot!

5*Columbus Blue Jackets -115

I mentioned the Blue Jackets were a "Strong Buy" before they played the Tampa Bay Lightning 10 days ago. Columbus has won four in a row and are the deeper more talented team. The Blue Jackets are well-rested and they are 3-0 when playing with three or more days of rest this season. Detroit has committed 110 penalties in 27 games, while the Blue Jackets have committed 85 penalties in 24 games. Columbus is ranked 9th in shots against, while the Red Wings are allowing more shots (854) than they take (754). Detroit has played three more games than the visitor and that matters in Hockey. The Red Wings are 14-21 when playing with two days of rest over the past three seasons. Columbus is the best team on Friday night this season going 5-0. Too much team speed for this current Red Wings' roster to handle right now. Take Columbus!

5*St. Louis Blues -125

The Blues have more talent in my opinion and are coming off a home loss with extra time to prepare. Montreal has allowed more shots (792) than they take (731). That's not a good sign for a team that is allowing 3 goals and 31.2 shots per game on the road this season. The Blues are ranked 10th in Face-Off win percentage, while Montreal is ranked 26th and will be without Center Alex Galchenyuk, the team leader in scoring with nine goals and 23 points. St. Louis is 29-14 when playing with two days or rest over the past three seasons, including four wins in a row. The Blues are 9-2 in home games when the total is 5 or less this season. St. Louis is ranked 3rd in shots against (27.0), while Montreal is ranked 23rd (31.7) this season. This a great spot for the host. Take the Blues!

5*Washington Capitals -108

The Capitals were shutout by the Islanders in their last game despite outshooting New York 38-28. Washington has a lot of team speed and will be a tough matchup for the host. The Lightning have played 3 more games than the Caps so far this season. Washington has committed just 84 penalties in 22 games, while Tampa Bay has committed 112 miscues in 25 games. The Capitals are ranked 6th in shots against (27.8 per game), while the Lightning are allowing more shots (770) than they take (745). Washington is 27-12 after scoring 1 goal or less and 22-10 after a loss of 2 goals or more over the past three seasons. Tampa Bay is 2-9 against winning teams this year. Take the Caps!

5*Columbus Blue Jackets -115

The Blue Jackets are off to their second best 20-game start in franchise history. If this was the stock market I would have a "strong buy" on the Blue Jackets right now. This team is deep and laden with talent up and down the roster. They have really put together a complete team so kudos to general manager Jarmo Kekalainen and head coach John Tortorella. The ladder would be my pick for NHL Coach of the Year, in his second season with the team. Tampa Bay has been outshot in four of their past five games, while the host has outshot its opponent in five straight. Columbus brings in the better offense, defense, Power Play, Goalie, and are the more disciplined team. Tampa Bay has played three more games than the Blue Jackets. Tough. Columbus will be playing with two days of rest and they are one of the best teams in this role. The Blue Jackets average 4.5 goals while surrendering 1.5 goals with two days of rest. The Lightning are just 2-7 against winning teams this season. Take the Blue Jackets! 

5*Nashville Predators -119

This will be the Tampa Bay's fifth road game in seven nights. Tough. The Lightning have won all four games, but only managed to outshoot one foe. Nashville is playing really good defense at home (1.29 GA) while going 5-1-1. The Predators are 40-22 in all home games when the total is 5 or less over the past three seasons, including 3-0 this year. Tampa Bay is 2-0 without superstar Steve Stamkos, who is OUT at least four months with a serious knee injury. His absence will be missed against this talented Predators team. Nashville is 24-14 after scoring one goal or less over the last three seasons. Finally, The Lightning have played two more games (19) than the host (17) so far this season and that's a big deal in this sport. Take Nashville!

10*Columbus Blue Jackets +112

The Rangers have won three in a row by a combined score of 14-4. However, they were outshot in every game for a combined 113-80 shot differential. This will be the Rangers fourth road game in six nights and they have played three more games than Columbus so far this season. The Blue Jackets have the necessary tools to slow down the high-scoring Rangers, as they rank third in both goals against (33) and differential (plus-14). This is a statement game for the upstart Blue Jackets who have won six of their past eight games. Add another. Take the host!

4*St. Louis Blues -105

The Sharks ousted the Blues in six games in last year's Western Conference Finals. I think the host will be motivated in this spot at home. Take the Blues!

5*Chicago Blackhawks -111

I think the Blackhawks are by far the more talented team and will take them at this price. Chicago is 52-32 when playing against a team with a losing record, while Winnipeg is 35-56 against winning teams over the past three seasons. The Blackhawks will bring in the better offense, defense, Power Play, Goalie, Face-Off win percentage and they are the more disciplined team. Chicago has committed 60 penalties in 16 games, while the Jets have committed 78 penalties in 17 games. The Blackhawks are 18-8 against the Jets franchise since 1996. Lets take the road team to get another win!

3*Toronto Maple Leafs +100

5*Carolina Hurricanes +120

The Devils defeated Carolina 4-1 on Sunday, despite getting outshot 34-21. In fact, Carolina is ranked No. 6 in shots allowed (27.4) while the Devils check in at No. 23 (31.8) so far this season. The Hurricanes should have a huge advantage in Face-Offs won. Only two teams rank higher in this very important stat. New Jersey has a big home-and-home series against Buffalo on deck. Take the motivated Hurricanes in this spot!

5*San Jose Sharks -126

The Sharks lost to the Penguins in Pittsburgh 2-3, despite outshooting them 34-20. San Jose has the better defense by far. They were -130 favorites in that one goal loss on October 20th. The Penguins are allowing more goals (365) than they take (338). Pittsburgh is allowing 3.40 goals on the road, while the Sharks are allowing just 1.40 goals at home on only 23.4 shots per game. San Jose has lost two straight one-goal games while outshooting their opponent in both contests. Oh and don't forget about this nugget. The San Jose Sharks have a vivid memory of the last visit by the Pittsburgh Penguins, which ended with Sidney Crosby and company taking turns hoisting the Stanley Cup after closing out a six-game series. Fourth road game in seven days for the Penguins. I like the Sharks in this spot!

Breeders Cup Classic (Race #12)

3 units #1 Effinex ML: 15-1  (Win + Place + Show)

I think Effinex is primed for a big day. He finished second to American Pharoah in this race last year and has never looked better during his training. He's raced at this distance eight times in his career and has finished in the Top 3 seven times, including two wins. Flavien Prat is the second leading jokey at Santa Anita Park in earnings with over 1.2 million. I'm calling my shot. Big upset in the Classic!

4*Edmonton Oilers -103

The Oilers lost their second game of the season against Ottawa on Sunday, despite out-shooting the Senators 37-22. Edmonton has the better offense, defense, and goalie at this point of the young season. Great value here. I think the Oilers should be at least -120. Toronto is just 2-7 after playing the NY Islanders over the last three seasons. Take Edmonton to bounce back!