NHL Archive | |||||||
Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
04-17-24 | Oilers v. Coyotes +156 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 156 | 11 h 23 m | Show |
I'm going to accept this price on the home underdog Coyotes, who are likely playing their final game in Arizona. The team is expected to move to Salt Lake City next season. |
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04-11-24 | Flyers v. Rangers -1.5 | Top | 4-1 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 38 m | Show |
The Rangers have dominated this series going 9-0-1 during the past 10 meetings, including beating the Flyers the past six times.
New York is trying to win its division and won't lack motivation especially after losing to the Devils two days ago. This is more of a fade against Philadelphia, though. The Flyers have lost eight straight games with six of the defeats occurring by multiple goals. The Flyers have been outscored by 24 goals during their eight-game losing streak. |
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03-26-24 | Golden Knights v. Predators -139 | Top | 4-5 | Win | 100 | 20 h 42 m | Show |
Nashville is a blistering 15-2 in its last 17 games with five consecutive victories. The Predators are riding a franchise-record 17-game point streak. |
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03-16-24 | Avalanche v. Oilers OVER 6.5 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -135 | 20 h 5 m | Show |
I'm surprised this total didn't open 7. It is heavily juiced at 6 1/2, but I have to believe each of these high-powered offenses will produce at least three goals.
Both teams should have their legs. Each has been idle since Wednesday. The Avalanche are the No. 1 scoring team in the NHL averaging 3.7 goals a game. They are averaging 4.3 goals during their last eight games. Edmonton is fourth in the league in scoring at 3.5 goals per game. The Oilers have scored 11 goals during their last two games. |
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02-20-24 | Blue Jackets +1.5 v. Kings | Top | 1-5 | Loss | -115 | 26 h 44 m | Show |
Having gone just 9-9-1-5 in LA, the Kings have burned the most money at home of any team in the NHL. |
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02-10-24 | Oilers v. Kings UNDER 6.5 | Top | 0-4 | Win | 100 | 23 h 24 m | Show |
The Oilers beat the Ducks, 5-3, on Friday. The Kings last played on Jan. 31 - 10 days ago. So what we have here is a fatigue vs a huge rust situation. It's unique and sets up an Under given the high total for this game. It's easy to think of goals with the Oilers since they have the magnificent Connor McDavid. But Edmonton has had an unbelievable long run of excellent defense. The Oilers have given up fewer than three goals in 14 of their last 16 games. Calvin Pickard was in net for the Oilers against the Ducks on Friday night. So a fresh Stuart Skinner will get the start in goal today. He's been brilliant having not allowed more than two goals during his last 12 games. Skinner surrendered fewer than two goals in half of those games. Edmonton will be playing for the third time in five days and second in two nights. So the Oilers carry a fatigue rating. That usually means an increased emphasis on defense and slower pace. The Kings entered the weekend ranked sixth defensively with the top penalty kill unit in the NHL. This also is the Kings' first game under interim head coach Jim Hiller. He replaced the fired Todd McLellan. That should ensure a huge defensive effort from the Kings. |
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01-28-24 | Blue Jackets v. Seattle Kraken OVER 6 | Top | 2-4 | Push | 0 | 11 h 55 m | Show |
I find this total too short given the circumstances and current form of these two teams. |
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01-18-24 | Predators +135 v. Kings | Top | 2-1 | Win | 135 | 23 h 60 m | Show |
This is a mystifying line. Since when is a team that has lost nine of their last 10 games, carries a high fatigue rating and is in a terrible situational spot a mid-sized favorite against an above .500 quality opponent? |
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01-02-24 | Islanders v. Avalanche OVER 6 | Top | 4-5 | Win | 100 | 10 h 12 m | Show |
The teams met earlier this season. Colorado won, 7-4. While I'm not expecting 11 goals again, I do believe there will be more than six goals scored. |
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12-27-23 | Panthers v. Lightning +100 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -100 | 8 h 17 m | Show |
Tampa Bay has been inconsistent, but coming out of the Christmas break this is a good spot for the Lightning. The price is right to back them. Tampa Bay has been better at home and Andrei Vasilevskiy is coming around to his superstar form in his return from back surgery. |
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12-15-23 | Predators +151 v. Hurricanes | Top | 6-5 | Win | 151 | 19 h 1 m | Show |
These teams are closely matched. Nashville is the better defensive team. But Carolina is a solid favorite because of being the home team. |
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12-06-23 | Golden Knights -158 v. Blues | Top | 6-3 | Win | 100 | 10 h 36 m | Show |
I want the defending Stanley Cup champion Golden Knights in this short revenge spot. St. Louis nipped the Golden Knights, 2-1, in overtime at Las Vegas on Monday. Las Vegas had a number of good looks, but were thwarted by Jordan Binnington's excellent goaltending.
I know the Golden Knights will play strong defense here. They've allowed three goals in regulation during the last three games and haven't given up more than two goals a game in six of their past seven games. I can't say the same for the Blues and Binnington. Both are extremely inconsistent. St. Louis had allowed an average of 4.3 goals in its previous six games before Monday's narrow victory. |
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11-22-23 | Devils v. Red Wings OVER 6.5 | Top | 0-4 | Loss | -123 | 9 h 4 m | Show |
The Devils are an Over machine with their combination of great offense and bad defense. New Jersey has gone Over in 13 of its 16 games for 81 percent. The Devils have the No. 1 power play in the NHL and rank sixth in scoring, but 29th defensively.
The Devils also have Jack Hughes healthy again. He has 22 points in 11 games. The Red Wings are the eighth-highest scoring team in the league, but are below par defensively. They've given up 3 or more goals in 10 of their last 11 games. The Devils have scored at least 3 goals in 14 of their 16 games. |
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11-16-23 | Panthers v. Kings OVER 6.5 | Top | 1-2 | Loss | -125 | 13 h 58 m | Show |
The Kings are the No. 2 scoring team in the NHL. They have produced 3 or more goals in 11 of their last 13 games. The Kings should really be on the attack after losing their last game, 4-2, at home to the Flyers. That was back on Saturday so they'll have fresh legs. |
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11-10-23 | Flames v. Maple Leafs OVER 6.5 | Top | 4-5 | Win | 100 | 9 h 45 m | Show |
The Flames were a major disappointment in October, but they are coming around now. They have scored 13 goals in their last three games. I'm looking for a lot of offense from Calgary against the Maple Leafs, who are giving up an average of 4.8 goals in their last five games. Toronto ranks 28th defensively. |
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10-31-23 | Kings v. Maple Leafs OVER 6.5 | Top | 4-1 | Loss | -130 | 18 h 23 m | Show |
The Kings are in action. So think Over. There have been 7 or more goals scored in six of the Kings' eight games. The Kings have surrendered at least three goals in every game except one. |
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10-26-23 | Rangers -125 v. Oilers | Top | 3-0 | Win | 100 | 22 h 58 m | Show |
The Rangers were outstanding on the road last season going 24-9-8 and they've started off well this season winning three of four away contests. I like the Rangers to keep hot on the road against the struggling Oilers. |
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10-11-23 | Avalanche -110 v. Kings | Top | 5-2 | Win | 100 | 19 h 24 m | Show |
Colorado won't have team captain Gabriel Landeskog as he still is recovering from knee surgery. But I like the rest of the makeup of the Avalanche as they begin the season highly motivated after an early playoff exit last season. |
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10-10-23 | Seattle Kraken +149 v. Golden Knights | Top | 1-4 | Loss | -100 | 23 h 11 m | Show |
It will be a festive opening night of the hockey season for the Las Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday. There will be a special ceremony prior to the game raising the Golden Knights' Stanley Cup banner. The Vegas players will enter on a special gold carpet. |
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06-13-23 | Panthers v. Golden Knights -1.5 | Top | 3-9 | Win | 161 | 25 h 36 m | Show |
The Golden Knights have mostly dominated this series. So their being up 3-1 is not a surprise. Las Vegas has outscored Florida, 17-9, made far fewer mistakes, has a decided edge in expected goals, is the much deeper and healthier team with Matthew Tkachuk battling a shoulder injury that has greatly reduced his minutes. The Panthers haven't been able to penetrate the middle of Las Vegas' tall and physical defense. Adin Hill has stepped up in net outplaying Sergei Bobrovsky throughout much of the series. Florida ranked 10th in power play goal percentage during the regular season. But against Las Vegas, the Panthers have failed to score in 13 power play opportunities. The Golden Knights held on to nip the Panthers, 3-2, this past Saturday in Florida in Game 4. Now the Panthers have to regroup and do it with a hobbled Tkachuk, who has been their best player. I don't see it happening, especially not at Las Vegas where the Panthers have lost the past seven times. I don't even see it being a close game. So I'm laying 1 1/2 goals on the puck line turning huge minus juice into huge plus juice. |
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06-10-23 | Golden Knights +105 v. Panthers | Top | 3-2 | Win | 105 | 27 h 41 m | Show |
The Cinderella Panthers raced through the East knocking off the Bruins, Maple Leafs and Hurricanes. But the Golden Knights are turning the Panthers' carriage into a pumpkin, exposing Florida for the eighth-place team it was in the Eastern Conference during the regular season. Las Vegas clearly has established itself as the superior team. If it weren't for getting some fortunate breaks in Thursday's Game 3 the Panthers would be down 3-0 in the series. The Panthers being favored in Saturday's Game 4 puts me on the underdog Golden Knights. The Golden Knights are the deeper team able to keep the pressure on Florida without a break having four strong lines. Florida can't match that. Las Vegas also has the better defense, special teams and hasn't made nearly as many mistakes as Florida has. Las Vegas has proven itself on the road, too, winning 15 of its last 21 away games. Las Vegas dominated the first two games, outscoring the Panthers, 12-4. The Panthers needed a late goal after they had pulled their goalie to force overtime in Game 3. The Golden Knights had a 15-8 advantage in scoring chances. Vegas shots hit the crossbar and post. Sergei Bobrovsky had his best game of the series by far for Florida. A metric showed Bobrovsky stopping 1.89 goals above expected. Bobrovsky is better than he showed in the first two games, but it's probably a reach to expect him to produce another ''A'' game. The Panthers, constantly stymied by the Golden Knights' tall and physical defensemen, managed only four shots on goal during the third period in Game 3. The Panthers continue to take stupid penalties. The Golden Knights have made them pay for this scoring on six of 17 power play chances for 35 percent. Florida, on the other hand, has yet to produce a goal in 12 power play opportunities against Las Vegas. |
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06-08-23 | Golden Knights v. Panthers -118 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 22 h 13 m | Show |
Is there a zig/zag in this Stanley Cup Finals with Las Vegas traveling to Florida up 2-0 in the series? Yes. Key signs point to a Panthers' victory. The home team has won 11 of the last 12 in this series. Florida has beaten Las Vegas four of the past five times it has hosted them. The Panthers have won 69 percent of their past 109 home games. Those are strong trends, but it takes more than trends to fully get behind the Panthers, who were dominated in a 7-2 Game 2 loss this past Monday. The Panthers have proven their resilience overcoming a 3-1 series deficit to eliminate the Bruins, the record-setting regular season points leader. The Panthers have gotten quality looks and shots on goal. They've been hurt by lack of discipline on the defensive end and Sergei Bobrovsky's mediocre play in net. Bobrovsky was pulled after 27 minutes in Game 2. I expect a strong performance from the prideful Bobrovsky in this Game 3 along with a much cleaner defensive effort from the Panthers, who will get back defenseman Radko Gudas, who missed much of Game 2. Bobrovsky went into this championship series with a collective 18.95 saved goals above expectations. That was the best playoff mark since 2008. I'm also expecting the Panthers to produce their ''A'' game. |
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05-27-23 | Stars v. Golden Knights -142 | Top | 4-2 | Loss | -142 | 22 h 25 m | Show |
Down 3-0 against the Golden Knights in their Western Conference Finals series, the Stars went all out at home this past Thursday to stay alive. They fired 42 shots on goal, received an outstanding goalie performance from overdue Jake Oettinger and out-hit the Golden Knights, 46-23. The Stars won - barely. They prevailed in overtime, 3-2. Now the scene shifts back to Las Vegas where I see the Golden Knights ending the series. Teams that have taken a 3-0 lead in the playoffs before the Stanley Cup final round are 47-0. The Golden Knights are 11-1 after scoring two goals or less during their previous game. Dallas is 1-4 in its last five road games and also 1-4 following a victory. The Golden Knights outplayed the Stars in the third period in Game 4. They outshot the Stars, 14-8, in the third period and looked like they were going to win in regulation. So even taking the Stars' best shot, the Golden Knights nearly clinched the series on the road. The Stars can't match the Golden Knights' four-line depth - especially missing suspended team captain Jamie Benn and injured right winger Evgenii Dadonov - nor can they match Las Vegas' solid core of six reliable defensemen. Adin Hill has also outplayed Oettinger in net. Las Vegas is an NHL-leading 6-2 at home during the postseason. Unlike Game 4, the Golden Knights will be in control of the matchups having the final line say being the home team. These many edges are too much for the Stars to overcome. |
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05-25-23 | Golden Knights v. Stars UNDER 5.5 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 22 h 44 m | Show |
Dallas is down 3-0 to Las Vegas in these Western Conference Finals and totally frustrated. The Stars are averaging two goals during their last five games and now will be without their captain and second-leading points producer suspended Jamie Benn. Dallas also likely will be missing injured forward Evgenii Dadonov, who has accounted for 10 points during the Stars' 16 playoff game hurting the team's scoring depth. The Golden Knights have stymied the Stars with their defensive depth - six solid blue-liners - and with backup goalie Adin Hill stepping up. Hill made 34 saves in Las Vegas' 4-0 Game 3 road win this past Tuesday. The Golden Knights have held their opponents to 1.7 goals during their last four games. Clogging up the middle of the ice, leading the NHL in blocked shots and averaging 10.3 takeaways - best of the remaining playoff teams - have been keys for the Golden Knights in holding the Stars to two goals during the last seven periods. How does Dallas respond? Obviously the Stars are in a desperate position on the verge of elimination. I don't see them opening up their attack. It's not realistically possible minus Benn, who has been such an important figure in their offense. Instead, I see the Stars trying to be more careful with the puck and helping out their goalie either backup Scott Wedgewood, or a shaky Jake Oettinger. That means a conservative game plan trying to get that much-needed elusive first win to keep the series alive. It's worth noting, too, that the past seven games in Dallas between these two teams have all gone Under. |
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05-02-23 | Panthers v. Maple Leafs -155 | Top | 4-2 | Loss | -155 | 19 h 10 m | Show |
It's going to be extremely difficult for the Panthers to be fully up for this Game 1 series matchup against the Maple Leafs. You can't blame the Panthers either. Florida eliminated the Bruins this past Sunday with an overtime Game 7 victory in Boston. The Bruins had set the NHL regular season record with 65 wins and 135 points. It was a stunning loss for the Bruins and a tremendous victory for the Panthers. Florida matched-up well to Boston. The Panthers haven't matched-well to the Maple Leafs when playing in Toronto losing nine of the past 11 times there. Toronto should feel less pressure now after winning their first playoff series in 19 years by taking out the Lightning this past Saturday. It's a great spot for the Maple Leafs. One that should result in a victory. |
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04-27-23 | Rangers +110 v. Devils | Top | 0-4 | Loss | -100 | 18 h 38 m | Show |
Perhaps they feel less pressure. Some teams just play better on the road, especially when it counts the most. The Rangers are such a team. New York rolled past the Devils, 5-1 in both Games 1 and 2, in this first-round series. Both wins were at New Jersey. But then the Rangers seemed to play tight and without Stanley Cup playoff intensity when they returned home, losing a pair of close games to the Devils. Now the Rangers go back to New Jersey - and I'm expecting them to win this Game 5 there. New York is 4-1 in its past five away contests. The Rangers have defeated the Devils in eight of the last 11 meetings in New Jersey. Look for a great effort from the Rangers after their coach, Gerard Gallant, ripped them for their poor play at home. The Devils are braced for a strong Rangers' performance. "We are going to see their best game," Devils coach Lindy Ruff said of the Rangers. "There is no doubt, by far, we will see their best game.'' I believe him. |
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04-26-23 | Panthers v. Bruins -1.5 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -100 | 19 h 5 m | Show |
Swept the past two games at home, the Panthers find themselves down, 3-1, to the Bruins and on the verge of elimination in this first-round series matchup. I don't see Florida upsetting the Bruins in Boston in this Game 5. I'm willing, too, to turn a huge lay price into a plus price by laying 1 1/2 goals on the puck line with the Bruins. The bonus being this is a closeout spot so the Panthers won't hesitate to pull their goalie early if down by a goal or two near the end of the game. The Bruins have been dominant all season. They certainly are dominant at home having won 42 of their last 51 games there. Florida has lost 20 of the past 26 times in Boston. Boston, though, will be taking nothing for granted as the road Panthers upset the Bruins in Game 2. The stinging defeat was a wakeup call for Boston. The Bruins beat the Panthers, 4-2 and 6-2, in Games 3 and 4. Boston's last six victories now have all been by more than one goal. As a bonus, the Bruins could get back their captain, Patrice Bergeron. He's yet to play in the series after getting hurt in Boston's regular-season finale. Bergeron is Boston's second-leading goal-scorer. |
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04-23-23 | Bruins -148 v. Panthers | Top | 6-2 | Win | 100 | 5 h 2 m | Show |
The Bruins set the NHL regular season record for wins and points. Until proven otherwise, they are the best team in the NHL. They have taken control of their first-round series against the Panthers going up 2-1 following a 4-2 road win against the Panthers two days ago. I don't see the Panthers getting back into the series after that loss. The Bruins exposed 30-year-old career minor league goalie Alex Lyon, who allowed several soft goals in Friday's loss. Lyon had been a major surprise for the Panthers down the stretch. But the team may have lost confidence in him now. That could mean a pivot to Sergei Bobrovsky, who hasn't played since March 27. So there would be plenty of rust if the Panthers go with Bobrovsky in net. The Panthers may not have their best defenseman, Aaron Ekblad, either. He's questionable after getting hurt in Game 3. The Bruins are 41-11 the past 52 times when playing on one day's rest. |
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04-21-23 | Hurricanes v. Islanders -114 | Top | 1-5 | Win | 100 | 17 h 27 m | Show |
Surprised the Islanders are favored against the Hurricanes? Don't be. The oddsmaker has it right. After two close road losses, the Islanders get to host their first playoff game at UBS Arena. Carolina nipped New York, 2-1, in Game 1. The Hurricanes nipped the Islanders, 4-3, in overtime in Wednesday's Game 2. The Islanders had 12 penalty minutes in Game 2. Carolina wasn't whistled for a penalty. The Hurricanes scored the overtime winner on a sequence after the referee failed to call an obvious high stick penalty on Carolina's Jordan Martinook. The Islanders have won their last four home games. They are due to get some breaks. The Hurricanes' forward depth took another hit when left winger Teuvo Teravainen suffered a broken hand late in Wednesday's game. Teravainen had 37 points playing on Carolina's top line. |
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04-13-23 | Bruins v. Canadiens UNDER 6.5 | Top | 5-4 | Loss | -105 | 9 h 25 m | Show |
Congrats to the Bruins on setting the NHL single-season win record. Now the Bruins conclude their regular season with this road game. It means nothing to the Bruins. Their thoughts are all geared to next week's Stanley Cup action. As for Montreal, the Canadiens long ago checked out. They are 1-6 in their last seven games. I'd compare this situation for the Bruins to an NFL team playing its final preseason game. The biggest concern is not having anybody get hurt. The Bruins are likely to be holding out players, just being content to just passing the puck around until this meaningless game is finished. Don't look for many penalties to be called. Montreal has scored two or fewer goals in six of its last seven games. If you discount a six-goal game against the Capitals, the Canadiens are averaging 1.1 goals in their last six games. These teams have a solid Under history even under normal conditions with the low side being 11-4-2 during the last 17 meetings. |
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04-10-23 | Predators v. Flames UNDER 6 | Top | 3-2 | Win | 100 | 21 h 33 m | Show |
Defense and tight-checking will be stressed here with the Predators, Flames and Jets all trying to chase down the final wild-card playoff spot in the West. The Predators, down Filip Forsberg and Matt Duchene, are trying to hang in with defense and outstanding goaltending from Juuse Saros. Nashville is averaging 1.7 goals in its last four games. The Predators have scored 3 or fewer goals in nine of their last 10 games. They tallied 2 or fewer goals in seven of those 10 games. But if you discount the five goals they allowed to the Stars, the Predators have held their last six opponents to only eight goals. The Flames have an above average defense, too. They rank No. 3 in fewest shots allowed. The Under has cashed in four of the last five meetings between the two teams. |
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04-08-23 | Devils v. Bruins -128 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 22 h 56 m | Show |
The price is low enough to strongly back the Bruins, the best team in hockey. Boston gives up the fewest goals while scoring the second-most. The line is low because the Devils are a strong team, too, and unlike Boston - which has already clinched the No. 1 seed - are playing for playoff seeding. So motivation factors. The Bruins haven't taken their foot off the gas winning 10 of their last 11 games. They have incentive. This is a nationally televised game courtesy of ABC and a victory would allow Boston to match the highest win total in NHL history. The Bruins are 61-12-5 on the season, including 32-4-3 at home. New Jersey is just 2-4 in its last six road contests with one of those victories occurring versus the lowly Blackhawks. The Devils also are 2-5 the past seven times they've played an above .500 opponent. Boston has defeated New Jersey 17 of the past 22 times when playing at home. |
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03-30-23 | Golden Knights -158 v. Sharks | Top | 3-4 | Loss | -158 | 24 h 36 m | Show |
Getting an elite team off a home loss against a bottom-feeder off a rare home victory sets up a great spot here for taking Las Vegas against San Jose. The Golden Knights are off a 7-4 home loss to the Oilers this past Tuesday. Las Vegas was 11-2 in its previous 13 games prior to that loss. The Golden Knights have the most points in the Western Conference. Their 17-4-2 record in their 23 games is tied for the second-best mark in the NHL during this span. San Jose snapped a nine-game losing streak in its last game, beating the Jets, 3-0, this past Tuesday. The Sharks have the worst home mark in the NHL with only seven victories. Before defeating the Jets, the Sharks hadn't won at home since Feb. 20. San Jose, already eliminated from the playoffs, has lost 43 of its past 57 home games. Las Vegas is a top road team with a 24-7-5 away mark. The Golden Knights have won seven consecutive road games. They consider San Jose an arch-rival. The Golden Knights won't lack motivation. They've beaten the Sharks eight straight times in San Jose. The Golden Knights are expected to go back to Laurent Brossoit in net after Jonathan Quick struggled in goal against the Oilers. Brossoit has allowed just 11 goals in his last five appearances. Las Vegas is giving up an average of 2.4 goals during its last seven road contests. |
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03-16-23 | Seattle Kraken -1.5 v. Sharks | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -100 | 11 h 35 m | Show |
I see this as a kill spot for Seattle. The Kraken are off three straight home losses. Now they go on the road to play the Sharks, who have by far the worst home mark in the NHL at 6-19-9. The Kraken have played much better on the road going 21-9-3. They've won their last four road games. Their last road defeat occurred to the Sharks, 4-0, on Feb. 20. So no chance the revenge-minded Kraken take the Sharks lightly. Motivation, on the other hand, could be difficult for the Sharks. They just were eliminated from playoff contention for the fourth straight season following a 6-5 home overtime loss to the Blue Jackets. |
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02-23-23 | Bruins -165 v. Seattle Kraken | Top | 6-5 | Win | 100 | 22 h 17 m | Show |
The Bruins have a seven-point lead over the Hurricanes for the best record in the NHL. It could prove difficult for Boston to be up for every one of its games. But the Bruins are sure to be heavily motivated for this matchup. It was the Kraken who dealt the Bruins their first home loss of the season with a stunning, 3-0, victory on Jan. 12. It also was the only time this season Boston failed to score. The Bruins have had this rematch circled ever since. It's their only chance to get revenge unless the teams happen to meet in the Stanley Cup Finals. Seattle lost to the Sharks, 4-0, in its last game this past Monday. The Bruins last played on Monday, too, beating the Senators, 3-1, for their fourth straight victory. Boston is 19-6-2 on the road. The Bruins have won their last three away games beating the Predators, Stars and Maple Leafs by a combined margin of 13-4. Linus Ullmark is expected to be in net for the Bruins. He's 29-4-1 with a 1.88 goals against average and a .937 save percentage. Those are Vezina Trophy numbers. Ullmark has surrendered just seven goals in his last four games. The Bruins rank No. 1 in scoring defense and penalty killing. They also are the second-highest scoring team in the league. I would be very surprised if the Bruins lose a second time to Seattle. |
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02-22-23 | Flames v. Coyotes OVER 6 | Top | 6-3 | Win | 100 | 12 h 13 m | Show |
I can easily envision each team scoring at least three goals here. The Flames enter this matchup desperate for a victory after a 4-3 home loss to the Flyers this past Monday. The Coyotes are tough at home with a 13-8-2 record. The Flames have scored 3 or more goals in eight of their last 11 games. They take the second-most shots in the NHL. Arizona gives up the second-most shots. Arizona has produced at least 3 goals in six of its last seven games. The Flames have surrendered 3 or more goals in each of their last four games. |
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02-18-23 | Lightning -120 v. Golden Knights | Top | 4-5 | Loss | -120 | 20 h 22 m | Show |
The Golden Knights are 4-0 this month. But the oddsmaker has it right making the Lightning road chalk. Las Vegas barely edged the lowly Sharks, 2-1, at home two days ago. The Golden Knights' other wins were also against unimpressive foes - the Ducks, slumping Wild and Predators. Las Vegas is not a strong home team. Tampa Bay should come in highly motivated after being upset by the Coyotes, 1-0, in a shootout this past Wednesday. The Lightning played their backup goalie in that game and also outshot Arizona, 47-26. Until that loss, Tampa Bay had won three in a row. The Lightning have won the past six times they've faced an above .500 opponent. |
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02-17-23 | Kings v. Ducks OVER 6.5 | Top | 6-3 | Win | 100 | 20 h 0 m | Show |
The Over has cashed in 13 of Anaheim's last 16 games. Surprised? Not really since the Ducks are the worst defensive team in the NHL. They are in terrible form, too, giving up 20 goals during their last three games. The Kings are in strong form offensively scoring four or more goals in five of their last six games. LA should have their skating legs, too, having last played on Monday when they beat the visiting Sabres, 5-2. The Kings have gone Over the past eight times following a victory. The Ducks should contribute to this total going Over. The Kings have permitted at least three goals in nine of their last 12 games. LA ranks 22nd defensively. |
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02-15-23 | Lightning v. Coyotes +1.5 | Top | 0-1 | Win | 100 | 19 h 10 m | Show |
The Coyotes are not a good team. But they are respectable at home going 11-8-2 at their new temporary home, Mullett Arena. They have won four of their last six home games and are capable of beating any team at Mullett Arena having proven that with victories against the Bruins, Maple Leafs and Avalanche. Mullett Arena is a 5,000-seat arena on the Arizona State campus. It is not a normal NHL arena because of its small size. Fans are right on top of the players. Opponents of the Coyotes are not used to this, especially when playing there for the first time. Tampa Bay fits that category. The Lightning probably won't take to the ice until pre-game warmups because they aren't likely to have a morning skate after playing Tuesday night. And what a game the Lightning had last night in Colorado. Tampa Bay edged the Avalanche, 4-3, in a shootout. The game had the intensity of a playoff matchup. I doubt the Lightning will go with star goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy in the second of back-to-back games. Tampa Bay's next game is much bigger on the road against the Golden Knights. There's a monster drop off from Vasilevskiy to backup goalie Brian Elliott. So that would be another plus for the Coyotes. I would recommend taking the Coyotes to win the first period, too, at around a nice plus $1.50 price. The Coyotes have yet to be outscored during the first period in five previous situations where an opponent was playing at Mullett Arena for the first time after playing the day before. |
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02-01-23 | Hurricanes v. Sabres +145 | Top | 5-1 | Loss | -100 | 17 h 54 m | Show |
Carolina is playing great. But the Sabres also are playing well with five wins in their last six games. The Hurricanes face a brutal scheduling spot here. So I'm going to take this big price on the home 'dog. Buffalo defeated the Penguins on the road this past Saturday night. The Sabres haven't played since. They should be well-rested and well prepared. Not so for the Hurricanes. Carolina gave its all in pulling out a 5-4 overtime home victory against the Kings Tuesday night after trailing by three goals entering the third period. The Hurricanes had beaten the Bruins in a huge revenge matchup this past Sunday in their previous game. So this marks their fifth game in eight days with three of their past four games having gone into overtime. Flying nearly 500 miles to Buffalo to play without rest is a horrible spot for Carolina. |
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01-18-23 | Avalanche v. Flames OVER 6 | Top | 4-1 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 48 m | Show |
The Avalanche are still down defensemen Bowen Byram and Josh Manson. But their firepower has returned with superstars Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar in top offensive form. The Avalanche have scored 13 goals during their last two games. They also have back from injury forward Valeri Nichushkin. The Flames should be primed for a big effort returning home from five games on the road. They were highly frustrated in a 2-1 loss to the Predators on Monday. They also ran into star goalie Juuse Saros. Even with that result, Calgary still has scored 3 or more goals in 11 of its last 13 games. The Over has cashed eight of the past 10 times the Flames have played on one day's rest. |
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12-23-22 | Kings v. Coyotes +155 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 155 | 10 h 8 m | Show |
This is a great spot for the underdog Coyotes. They catch the Kings fat and happy after LA just completed a three-game homestand sweep by edging the Flames, 4-3, in overtime last night. So the Kings are playing for the third time in four days and without rest. This also is the first time they will be playing in Mullett Arena, a college hockey rink much smaller than a normal NHL arena. This gives the Coyotes a huge home ice advantage especially for opponents who have yet to play there like the Kings. The Kings aren't likely to have the luxury of a morning skate there either to get used to the place because they played last night. The Coyotes have won three of their last five home games, including upsetting the Bruins during this span. |
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12-13-22 | Golden Knights v. Jets -124 | Top | 6-5 | Loss | -124 | 19 h 41 m | Show |
Winnipeg is home with double revenge. The Golden Knights are dealing with injuries to their best players. The spot is right for the Jets. So is the price. The Golden Knights are 2-0 against the Jets with both wins coming in Las Vegas, including a 2-1 overtime winner on Oct. 30, where the Jets were playing for the third time in four days. Las Vegas is down their leading goal and points scorer with Jack Eichel going on injured reserve with a lower-body injury. Also out is defenseman Zach Whitecloud with a knee injury. Two other important defensemen, Shea Theodore and Alex Pietrangelo, have been out, too, for Las Vegas. Pietrangelo hasn't played since Nov. 26 due to an illness in his family, while Theodore missed the Golden Knights' Sunday loss to the Bruins with a lower-body injury. The loss of these players really hurts Las Vegas' special teams both on the power-play and penalty kill unit. Winnipeg has won 10 of 14 home games. The Jets are 7-2 in their last nine games, but coming off a 5-2 home loss to the Capitals this past Sunday that halted a four-game win streak. The Golden Knights haven't maintained their hot earlier pace. They are 5-5 in their last 10 games with three of those five victories coming in a shootout or overtime. Las Vegas also hasn't fared well in Winnipeg losing in its last four visits. |
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12-09-22 | Bruins -1.5 v. Coyotes | Top | 3-4 | Loss | -120 | 20 h 14 m | Show |
Death, taxes and the Bruins beating the Coyotes. Those are about the only three certain things in life. Boston has defeated Arizona 19 straight times. I'd be shocked if the Bruins didn't make it 20 in a row against the Coyotes, who haven't defeated Boston in 12 years. The Bruins are tied for the most points in the NHL. They rank first defensively and second in goals scored per game. The key question is can Boston beat Arizona by more than one goal so as to reduce laying such high vigorish? Yes. This is the Coyotes' first home game after a record-tying 14 consecutive road games that began back on Nov. 5. Not surprisingly, Arizona ran out of gas losing its last six games with the most recent defeat occurring two days ago to Edmonton by six goals. This marks the Coyotes' fifth game in nine days. They also have the distraction of finally being home after being gone close to five weeks. The Bruins rolled past the Coyotes, 6-3, at home in the first meeting between the two teams this season. Boston has won by multiple goals in 11 of its last 12 victories. |
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11-30-22 | Rangers -120 v. Senators | Top | 3-1 | Win | 100 | 20 h 21 m | Show |
The Rangers are much superior to the Senators. Yet the line is short here because the Rangers have lost three in a row, while the Senators have won consecutive games. I see the Rangers turning things around against this opponent. New York lost 5-3 to the streaking Devils this past Monday. New Jersey is the hottest team in the NHL winning 19 of its last 21 games. The Rangers went into their matchup against the Devils having lost 4-3 to the Oilers and 3-2 to the Ducks. The Rangers blew a 3-0 third period lead against the Oilers. Rangers star goalie Igor Shesterkin wasn't happy with his performance against the Devils. He's primed for a bounce back effort. The Rangers should be able to release their frustrations against an Ottawa club that ranks 23rd defensively and had lost 11 of 13 games before beating the Ducks and posting an overtime victory against the Kings. This is the Senators' first home game since returning from a four-game West Coast trip that finished this past Sunday. Ottawa is 1-6 in its last seven home games. |
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11-23-22 | Rangers v. Ducks UNDER 6 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 101 | 12 h 44 m | Show |
The Ducks are a low-scoring team once again. They have produced just six goals in regulation during their last 10 games, an average of 1.6 goals during this span. This is the Ducks' first game back from three games on the road - all losses. They should be primed for a big effort and that means tight-checking and defensive intensity. The Rangers are back to winning. They beat the Kings, 5-3, at LA last night for their second straight victory. I don't see the Rangers being up-tempo playing without rest. The Under is 12-5 in their last 17 road games. The Under also has cashed the last five times when the Rangers have scored 5 or more goals in their past game. There's the possibility the Rangers start backup Jaroslav Halak in net instead of star Igor Shesterkin. I'm fine if that happens. The Rangers would be more defensive-oriented and take less chances if Halak were in goal. Halak has given up two goals in regulation during each of his last two starts facing the Predators and Red Wings. |
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11-08-22 | Wild v. Kings OVER 6.5 | Top | 0-1 | Loss | -100 | 11 h 5 m | Show |
Two fully rested above average offenses square off here against bottom tier defenses. Minnesota has scored three or more goals in nine of its 11 games. However, the Wild rank 25th defensively allowing 3.6 goals a game. Los Angeles has scored four goals in each of its last three home games. The Kings rank 27th defensively, permitting 3.8 goals per game. Both teams should have plenty of energy since they have been idle since Thursday. Free Tuesday Play Coyotes at Sabres Under 6 1/2 plus $1.05 The Under has cashed the last four times these teams have played in Buffalo. Only once in the last seven overall meetings between these teams has the total gone Over. I see that trend continuing here. The Coyotes average 2.8 goals a game. They are last in shots. Arizona hasn't scored more than three goals in nine of its 11 games. The Sabres should be committed to a strong defensive effort after blowing a late lead in a 5-3 road loss to the Lightning this past Saturday. That was Buffalo's second consecutive defeat. The Sabres' intensity and concentration should be up. The Sabres haven't allowed more than three goals during each of their past four home games. This is the second of 14 straight road games for the Coyotes. They have games Thursday, Friday and Saturday. So there is no reason for them to push pace. |
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10-25-22 | Lightning -120 v. Kings | Top | 2-4 | Loss | -120 | 21 h 29 m | Show |
The Kings are one of those rare play-better-on-the-road-than-at-home teams. They had a better away mark last season and that pattern has held up early this season as they are 3-2 on the road, 0-2 at home. LA just concluded a five-game, eight-day East Coast trip this past Saturday night. The Kings are 2-10 the past 12 times at home following a road trip of a week or more. Tampa Bay matches up well to Los Angeles. The results prove that. The Lightning have won 11 of the past 12 times. The Kings are likely to draw star goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy, too. He's expected to start in goal against the Kings with backup Brian Elliott starting on Wednesday when the Lightning plays at the Ducks. So not only are the Lightning the superior team, but they have history and situation going in their favor, too. The price is low enough to back Tampa Bay. |
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06-24-22 | Lightning v. Avalanche -1.5 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -100 | 16 h 20 m | Show |
It has been a great run for the two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Lightning, but their chance for a three-peat ends Friday night in Colorado. A combination of an outstanding and hungry Avalanche team and fatigue is too much for Tampa Bay to overcome. Just like the Celtics, the Lightning have nothing left in the tank this late into the playoffs after enduring a much tougher path than Colorado to reach the finals, including coming back from series deficits to defeat the Maple Leafs and Rangers. The Avalanche are 7-2 at home in the playoffs. They buried the Lightning, 7-0, in their last home game. Tampa Bay coach Jon Cooper complaining about the Avalanche having six skaters on the ice when they scored the winning goal in overtime in Game 4 this past Wednesday is sort of hoisting up the white flag. That was a bitter home loss for the Lightning - and the turning point of the series. The Avalanche have proven to be the superior team. They are fresher and highly motivated. I don't see the Lightning having enough left to hang close. |
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06-22-22 | Avalanche v. Lightning -105 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -105 | 9 h 13 m | Show |
I'm going to ride the rejuvenated two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Lightning at home at this price after their huge confidence-building, 6-2, home win against Colorado in Game 3 of the Cup Finals. Tampa Bay has won eight consecutive home games during these Stanley Cup playoffs. The Lightning came back from series deficits against the Maple Leafs and Rangers. They have faced stronger competition during the playoffs than Colorado - and proven themselves. Nikita Kucherov is expected to play. The Lightning also hold a monster goalie edge with Andrei Vasilevskiy against the Avalanche's sub-par goalies Darcy Kuemper, who was pulled during Game 3 for his shoddy performance, and Pavel Francouz.
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06-20-22 | Avalanche v. Lightning -106 | Top | 2-6 | Win | 100 | 15 h 50 m | Show |
We've been down this 0-2 playoff path before with the two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Lightning and recently, too. Tampa Bay came back from a 2-0 playoff deficit against the Rangers in their last series to reach the Stanley Cup Finals. I'm not blind, though. The Avalanche are the strongest opponent Tampa Bay has faced during its three-year Cup run. The Lightning nearly pulled out Game 1 in Colorado, losing in overtime. But the Avalanche dominated at home, especially in their 7-0 Game 2 victory over Tampa Bay this past Saturday looking faster, hungrier and more disciplined than the Lightning. It was a humbling beatdown of the Lightning that's for sure. But I'm not going to ignore, nor discount, the Lightnings' playoff pedigree, goalie edge with Andrei Vasilevskiy and heart. Tampa Bay has always been resilient and able to make the necessary adjustments. The Lightning's 18-2 playoff record following a loss is proof of that. Tampa Bay has won 40 of its last 55 home games, including going 7-1 in this season's Stanley Cup games. The Avalanche is as good as advertised. However, I don't see the Lightning getting swept. They are at home now. Their season and pride are on the line. They've come through before. It's not a leap of faith to back them in Game 3. |
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06-15-22 | Lightning +145 v. Avalanche | Top | 3-4 | Loss | -100 | 47 h 35 m | Show |
Tampa Bay is a mid-sized road 'dog. But there are a number of factors that point to the Lightning grabbing this Game 1. Here are three of them: Andrei Vasilevskiy. He's the hottest and best goalie in the playoffs. Vasilevskiy has allowed one or fewer goals in seven of his last 10 games. His GAA in the playoffs is 2.27. The Avalanche can't come close to matching that in net. Quality of competition and championship experience. Both strongly favor Tampa Bay. The Lightning went against much tougher competition than Colorado in taking out the Maple Leafs, Panthers and Rangers to reach this point. Tampa Bay knows how and when to peak, having won the Stanley Cup the past two years. The Lightning are in peak form now. Rustiness. The Lightning will have not played in four days when this game goes on Wednesday. But that's nothing compared to Colorado. The Avalanche last played on June 6 so they will have been idle for nine days! |
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06-06-22 | Avalanche -122 v. Oilers | Top | 6-5 | Win | 100 | 21 h 44 m | Show |
The Avalanche have dominated the Oilers for most of this Western Conference Final in building a 3-0 series lead. That includes a 4-2 road victory in Game 3 this past Saturday. Colorado is now 6-0 away from home in the playoffs. The Avalanche have outscored their opponents by 15 goals during these six away victories. I see no reason to go against the Avalanche. They have outscored the Oilers by eight goals in the series. The Oilers must realistically realize their cause is hopeless. Teams that have lost the first three games in the conference finals and semifinals are 0-44 when it comes to winning a series. The Avalanche are in a great rhythm. They are 40-18 the past 58 times when playing on one day's rest. Colorado is 6-1 during the last seven meetings against Edmonton. Making things even worse for the Oilers is Evander Kane won't play because of suspension. Kane is the No. 1 postseason scorer with 13 goals. |
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06-03-22 | Lightning -122 v. Rangers | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -122 | 18 h 29 m | Show |
The Rangers upset the Lightning, 6-2, in the opening game of this Eastern Conference Final. We know what Tampa Bay does following a playoff loss. If you need a reminder this is it: The Lightning are 19-0 following a Stanley Cup loss. The oddsmaker doesn't believe in the Rangers either making them a home 'dog despite their convincing Game 1 victory. Kudos to the Rangers for not only taking out the Hurricanes with a Game 7 road victory, but also their win against Tampa Bay. But do keep in mind, the Lightning hadn't played in nine days following their four-game sweep of the Panthers in the second round. Don't expect the prideful two-time defending Stanley Cup champions to be flat against the Rangers for a second straight game. The rust is off. Star goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy, stud defenseman Victor Hedman and Tampa's many scoring threats should be primed now with their pride on the line. |
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06-01-22 | Lightning v. Rangers UNDER 5.5 | Top | 2-6 | Loss | -110 | 19 h 22 m | Show |
If you're expecting this Game 1 Eastern Conference Final to be similar to Colorado's 8-6 victory against Edmonton in Game 1 of the Western Conference Final Tuesday then we have totally opposite viewpoints. Because I see a defensive matchup pitting the two best goalies in hockey, Andrei Vasilevskiy and Igor Shesterkin. Both goalies are hot, too. Tampa Bay, behind Vasilevskiy, has surrendered just four goals in its last five games. That was a four-game sweep of the Panthers, the highest-scoring team in the NHL, and the final game of the series against the Maple Leafs, the second-highest scoring team in the NHL. Backed by Shesterkin, the likely Vezina Trophy winner as the league's best goalie, the Rangers have not allowed more than two goals per game in six of their last seven games. The Rangers face a Lightning squad that should be extremely rusty, too, since it has been nine days since Tampa Bay last was in action. |
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05-30-22 | Rangers +135 v. Hurricanes | Top | 6-2 | Win | 135 | 21 h 24 m | Show |
Let's get this out of the way right now. The Hurricanes are 7-0 at home in the playoffs. They are 3-0 at home against the Rangers in this series. So why take the underdog Rangers besides getting a plus price? Several reasons starting with the goalie matchup. Igor Shesterkin isn't just the favorite to win the Vezina Trophy as the best goalie in hockey, but he's also a strong Hart Trophy candidate, too, as the MVP of the league. Shesterkin has allowed two or fewer goals in five of the six games in the series. He's a difference maker. The same certainly can't be said for Carolina goalie Antti Raanta. He's a backup forced into the spotlight because of an injury to Frederik Andersen. Fatigue could be hitting Raanta. He's made 12 starts in the postseason after making only 26 starts during the regular season. Raanta surrendered two - if not three - marginal goals to the Rangers in Game 6 with New York winning, 5-2. Raanta played so poorly he was pulled after 13 shots. It's rare to get an underdog this large that holds such a monster goalie edge. All three of the Rangers' losses in Carolina were close. This stage and challenge isn't too big for the Rangers. They proved that in their first playoff series winning Game 6 in Pittsburgh and finishing off the Penguins in seven games. Adam Fox gives the Rangers a Norris Trophy-winning defenseman. The Rangers have the point producers with Chris Kreider, Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad. The Hurricanes can't be as aggressive as the Rangers because of the goalie discrepancy. The Rangers were a lot faster and smoother than the Hurricanes in the last game. That should carry over. It's the Hurricanes who are playing with all the pressure. |
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05-28-22 | Hurricanes v. Rangers -106 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 21 h 45 m | Show |
We've been down this path before with the Rangers. They faced elimination down 3-1 to the Penguins in their first-round Stanley Cup matchup and prevailed. Now they need to win this home game to stay alive against the Hurricanes down 3-2 in the series. The Rangers have the resilience, goaltending and home ice necessary to win this game. Artemi Panarin, Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad are due to step up bigger than they have in this series. Igor Shesterkin has regained his touch as the best goalie in hockey this season. The price is more than right to back the Rangers against a Carolina squad that has shown strength at home, but weakness on the road. The Hurricanes are 0-5 in their Stanley Cup away games. All of those losses were by more than one goal. They have been outscored by 13 goals on the road in the playoffs during those five games. Carolina doesn't have a good history at Madison Square Garden either, losing 20 of the past 26 times there. |
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05-21-22 | Avalanche v. Blues OVER 6.5 | Top | 5-2 | Win | 100 | 24 h 4 m | Show |
Never mind that the Avalanche and Blues are each top-four scoring teams, averaging 3.8 goals per game. It doesn't matter that the Avalanche have fired 85 shots on goal during the first two games of this series, or that the Over is 22-10-1 in St. Louis' last 33 games. Who cares that the Over is 6-1-1 the past eight times these two teams have played in St. Louis. What matters is that the first two games of this series both went Under with the Avalanche winning, 3-2 in overtime, in Game 1 and the Blues upsetting Colorado, 4-1, in Game 2 this past Thursday. The important takeaway from those two games from a totals perspective is that the expected goals were much higher than what actually transpired. I'm expecting the floodgates to finally open here with each team getting at least three goals. The Avalanche were off their game in Game 2. They played too slow. Colorado is going to pick up the pace. The Avalanche wants a fast-paced game. They are going to force the action. The Blues remain without two veteran defensemen with Marco Scandella and Torey Krug both out. So there is some vulnerability. The Blues are dangerous with all of their lines. They had nine players score 20 or more goals during the regular season. The Blues have scored four or more goals in nine of their last 11 home games. |
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05-19-22 | Blues v. Avalanche OVER 6.5 | Top | 4-1 | Loss | -117 | 13 h 37 m | Show |
Expect more than the five goals that were scored in Game 1 when the Avalanche nipped the Blues, 3-2, in overtime. These teams tied for the third-most goals during the regular season, each averaging 3.8 goals per game. Colorado peppered Blues goalie Jordan Binnington with 54 shots with three hitting the post and two the crossbar. I'm not counting on the inconsistent Binnington playing that well and being that lucky again. St. Louis is likely to still be missing defensemen Marco Scandella and Torey Krug. The Avalanche did their scoring damage with their supporting cast. Their superstars are due to step up now. The offensive-minded Blues have excellent scoring depth, too. The Over is 13-3-1 in their last 17 road games. Prior to Game 1, the teams had gone Over during their past six meetings. |
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05-14-22 | Kings +1.5 v. Oilers | Top | 0-2 | Loss | -130 | 22 h 19 m | Show |
I'm taking 1 1/2 goals on the puck line in the belief the Oilers will wilt at home under the pressure of a Game 7. Even if they win, it will be by the narrowest of margins. Edmonton hasn't won a playoff series in five years. The Kings were an outstanding 23-11-7 on the road during the season. They are 2-1 on the road against the Oilers during this first-round series. LA still has some veterans remaining from its Stanley Cup winning teams of 2012 and 2014. So the Kings know how to win important games. |
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05-08-22 | Maple Leafs v. Lightning -113 | Top | 3-7 | Win | 100 | 20 h 45 m | Show |
During the past three postseasons, Tampa Bay has gone 16-0 following a playoff loss. That resiliency has been instrumental in the Lighting winning the Stanley Cup the past two years. I see that streak continuing with the Lightning hosting the Maple Leafs Sunday. Toronto opened the series with a 5-0 victory. The Lightning were flat that game. They came back to even the series with a 5-3 win on Wednesday, but then lost at home, 5-2, in Game 3 this past Friday. Tampa Bay couldn't overcome a 3-0 deficit. The Lightning did outplay the Maple Leafs for much of the last two periods, especially the third period, but the damage had been done. Tampa Bay's core, which has been together for around a decade and used to playoff highs and lows, should rebound like they always have. Toronto goalie Jack Campbell has been playing above his talent level. I can see a drop-off in his play with this game in Tampa. Having home ice also gives the Lightning the last line change. This is especially crucial for Tampa coach Jon Cooper in matching up against the Maple Leafs' upper tier line featuring superstar Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. |
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04-28-22 | Devils +290 v. Hurricanes | Top | 3-6 | Loss | -100 | 18 h 38 m | Show |
The major part of this handicap is a letdown factor from Carolina. The Hurricanes have been playing extremely well winning five in a row. The latest victory, 4-3 against the Rangers two days ago, clinched the Metropolitan Division for the Hurricanes. So that sense of urgency is gone now for the Hurricanes. They accomplished what they wanted to do. Now, playing for the fourth time in six days, I don't see the Hurricanes too motivated for this matchup against the lowly Devils. New Jersey is capable of pulling off a huge upset on the road. The Devils have done that twice during the last 3 1/2 weeks beating the Golden Knights and Stars at better than plus $2.00 in each game. The Devils nearly upset the Hurricanes when they hosted them five days ago, losing 3-2 in overtime. The Hurricanes forced the overtime by scoring with less than two minutes left. |
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04-18-22 | Hurricanes -1.5 v. Coyotes | Top | 5-3 | Win | 100 | 25 h 59 m | Show |
Arizona has become an auto-fade on the puck line. The combination of injuries, inexperience and just wanting to get their season finished have rendered the Coyotes noncompetitive. The Coyotes are 2-13 in their last 15 games with their only victories during this time frame coming against non-playoff teams the Blackhawks and Sharks. Arizona has lost six in a row. All of these defeats have been by at least four goals! In fact, 12 of the Coyotes' last 13 losses have occurred by multiple goals. The Hurricanes can't afford to sleep against the Coyotes being in a tight race with the Rangers for the Metropolitan Division title. Carolina has beaten the Coyotes during seven of their last nine visits. |
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04-17-22 | Blues v. Predators OVER 6 | Top | 8-3 | Win | 100 | 21 h 41 m | Show |
The Blues have scored four or more goals in each of their last 11 games setting a franchise record. St. Louis is averaging 4.9 goals during this 11-game span. The Blues may not draw Nashville's starting goalie either with Juuse Saros working Saturday. The Predators are likely to be missing defensemen Jeremy Lauzon, too. He was injured in the Predators' 4-3 victory against the Blackhawks on Saturday. The Over is 7-0-1 during the Blues' past eight road contests.
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04-13-22 | Kings v. Avalanche -1.5 | Top | 3-9 | Win | 105 | 20 h 27 m | Show |
This is a kill spot for the Avalanche. Colorado is tied with Florida for the most points in the NHL at 110. The Avalanche have won six in a row. They've been idle since Saturday. The Kings halted a three-game losing streak with a 5-2 victory against the hapless Blackhawks Tuesday night. The Kings' reward? They go into high altitude to face the rested and ready Avalanche. Not only are the Kings playing without rest, but it's their third game in four days and they have a cluster injury problem on defense. One of the defensemen out for LA is Drew Doughty. The Avalanche has dominated the Kings winning the past eight times against them. |
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03-30-22 | Golden Knights v. Seattle Kraken OVER 6 | Top | 3-0 | Loss | -101 | 23 h 58 m | Show |
I fully expect each of these teams to register at least three goals. Las Vegas has scored 5 or more goals in four of its last six games, including producing 11 goals the past two games. Seattle ranks 27th defensively and 29th in penalty kill. The Over has covered 20 of the last 28 times the Golden Knights have played a sub .500 opponent. Seattle has picked up its offense. The Kraken have scored 3 or more goals in six of their last eight games. Seattle has scored at least four goals in five of those games. The Kraken are likely to face Las Vegas third-string rookie goalie Logan Thompson. The Over has cashed eight of the last 11 times Seattle has been a home 'dog. |
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03-03-22 | Oilers v. Blackhawks OVER 6 | Top | 3-4 | Win | 100 | 20 h 12 m | Show |
The Oilers should be good for at least three goals - if not many more. Paced by superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers rank ninth in scoring at 3.3 goals a game. McDavid and Draisaitl are the two top point producers in the NHL. The Blackhawks give up 3.4 goals per game, which ranks 24th. Chicago also is 29th in penalty kill. Edmonton ranks third in power play goal percentage. Edmonton has scored 3 or more goals in nine of its last 10 games. Here the Oilers get to face a well-below average defense. The Blackhawks should be up for this game. They've been idle for three full days. That should ensure a lot of energy and fresh legs. Just two games ago, the Blackhawks scored eight goals at home against the Devils. |
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02-11-22 | Islanders v. Oilers -136 | Top | 1-3 | Win | 100 | 23 h 36 m | Show |
After racing off to a 16-5 start, Edmonton is just 7-13-3 in its last 23 games. The bottom fell out for the Oilers in their last game, a 4-1 home loss to the Blackhawks this past Wednesday. The Oilers were minus $1.78 in that game. That loss was so bad the Oilers fired coach Dave Tippett following the game. This will be Edmonton's first game under new coach Jay Woodcroft. You have to believe the Oilers are going to be super fired-up. It's also must-win time for the Oilers trailing the Flames by five points for the final Western Conference wild-card spot. So the timing is right for the Oilers to beat the Islanders. The Islanders have endured a rough season themselves. They played for the first time in a week and beat the Canucks, 6-3, this past Wednesday. The Islanders were shut out by Seattle, 3-0, at home in their previous game. The Islanders are 1-7 the past eight times as a road 'dog. They also are 6-13 the last 19 times following a victory. Edmonton has dominated the Islanders at home winning eight of the last nine times, although the last time the Oilers hosted the Islanders was nearly three years ago. |
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01-03-22 | Oilers +115 v. Rangers | Top | 1-4 | Loss | -100 | 21 h 29 m | Show |
The Oilers are in stop-the-pain mode with three consecutive losses, the last two coming in overtime. The Rangers, on the other hand, are fat and happy having just defeated the defending Stanley Cup champion Lightning, 4-0, on Sunday for the second time in three days. The Oilers have scored five goals in three of their last five games. They can be explosive with superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The Rangers aren't likely to have their best player, forward Artemi Panarin. He was placed in COVID-19 protocols on Sunday. Edmonton is 5-0 the past five times facing the Rangers. |
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11-24-21 | Maple Leafs -155 v. Kings | Top | 6-2 | Win | 100 | 21 h 42 m | Show |
Toronto is 11-2 in its last 13 games. The Maple Leafs have accomplished this with defense and strong goaltending. Toronto has permitted just eight goals in its last seven games. The Kings have scored two or fewer goals in four of their last five games. LA has dropped four in a row, including a 2-1 overtime loss to the lowly Coyotes in its last game this past Sunday. The Kings are 2-9 the past 11 times they've been a home 'dog. But don't expect the Maple Leafs to take the Kings lightly, or not be motivated. Toronto is in full revenge mode for a 5-1 loss suffered at home to the Kings a little more than two weeks ago. Former Kings goalie Jack Campbell is likely to be in net for Toronto. He has three shutouts this month. Superstar Auston Matthews is due for a breakout game having been held without a goal the past three games despite coming close to scoring. |
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10-12-21 | Seattle Kraken v. Golden Knights UNDER 5.5 | Top | 3-4 | Loss | -127 | 25 h 5 m | Show |
Las Vegas wasn't your typical expansion team. The Golden Knights were good right away. Seattle isn't typical either. The Kraken aren't going to reach the lofty heights the Golden Knights did during their first couple of seasons, but they will be competitive. That's because the Kraken went for defense and goaltending. Seattle is going to play a conservative, defensive style. The Kraken have the veteran players to do this starting with defenseman and team captain Mark Giordano and goalie Philipp Graubauer, a finalist for the Vezina Trophy last season when he was with Colorado. The Kraken shut out Vancouver, 4-0, in their final preseason game last Tuesday. The Golden Knights ended last season losing in six games to the Canadiens in the Stanley Cup semifinals producing only 13 goals in those six games while going 0-for-15 in power play opportunities. Robin Lehner teamed with Marc-Andre Fleury to allow the fewest goals last season. Lehner takes over as the undisputed No. 1 goalie following Fleury's departure to the Blackhawks. Lehner and Graubauer are among the top goalies in the NHL. Depth at forward is down for both teams because of injuries and COVID-19 protocols. Las Vegas had just 10 forwards during its last practice. So I'm expecting a tight-checking, low-scoring opening game.
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07-07-21 | Canadiens v. Lightning -1.5 | Top | 0-1 | Loss | -100 | 18 h 58 m | Show |
The plucky Canadiens got their win, nipping the Lightning, 3-2, in overtime two days ago. Montreal regained its self-respect by not getting swept by Tampa Bay. But now the inevitable has arrived for the Canadiens - Game 5 in Tampa Bay. The defending Stanley Cup champion Lightning are healthy and at the highest tier. Montreal is nowhere near that status. At best the Canadiens are at least one level, if not two levels, behind the Lightning. The situation is ripe for the Lightning to finish off this series. I'm going to turn a huge lay price into a plus price by laying 1 1/2 goals on the puck line in the belief this is not going to be a close game. Even if it is, the empty net factor looms large with Montreal on the brink of elimination and having nothing to lose. Tampa Bay hasn't lost two playoff games in a row since the opening round of 2019. The Lightning have won 72 percent of their last 69 home games. They also are 8-0 the past eight times hosting Montreal.
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07-02-21 | Lightning -130 v. Canadiens | Top | 6-3 | Win | 100 | 18 h 6 m | Show |
The Canadiens did a fantastic job pulling off one of the great playoff series upsets when they eliminated the Golden Knights. But Montreal doesn't match up nearly as well against defending Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay. The Lightning have defeated the Canadiens in 14 of the last 17 meetings. This includes outscoring the Canadiens by an 8-2 margin to go up 2-0 in this Stanley Cup Final. Switching venues to Montreal isn't going to change that. The Canadiens are limited to just 3,500 fans. The Lightning didn't come close to playing its ''A'' game two days ago in Game 2 yet still won, 3-1. The Lightning are capable of playing far better. Montreal lacks the offense to stay with Tampa Bay. The Lightning not only have their top scorers back, but their defense and goaltending have been superb. Tampa Bay has surrendered just four goals in regulation during its last five games. Andrei Vasilevskiy trumps Carey Price in net. |
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06-24-21 | Golden Knights -138 v. Canadiens | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -138 | 18 h 33 m | Show |
As strange as it sounds, maybe beating the Canadiens, 4-1, in the first game of this series after overcoming the Avalanche in a tough series was the worst thing that could have happened to the Golden Knights. Since that decisive opening game victory, the Golden Knights have lost three of four to Montreal. Now the Golden Knights are on the verge of elimination down 3-2 in the series. How will they respond? Certainly the letdown factor has long since disappeared. Las Vegas is the superior team. But that doesn't mean that much now as the Canadiens' confidence is sky-high, Carey Price has stayed hot in net and Montreal is on house money. Those make for a dangerous combination. Yet I see Las Vegas winning this game and the price finally has come down enough to back the Golden Knights. Las Vegas has overcome adversity. The Golden Knights trailed in their series against the Wild and Avalanche before coming back to eliminate those teams. The Golden Knights are off a 4-1 loss from two days ago. They are 9-1 the past 10 times following a loss of three goals or more. Las Vegas has done the job as a road favorite winning 20 of the past 27 times in that role. Key center Chandler Stephenson is back in the lineup for Las Vegas. That gives the Golden Knights' four solid lines. So they own a depth edge, which increases in importance as the series grows longer. The Golden Knights ranked first defensively in the NHL and were third in scoring at 3.39 goals per game. However, they've managed just seven goals during their past four games. Price has a 2.01 goals above average when facing an average shot distance of 39.82 feet, a metric courtesy of NaturalStatTrick.com. Price has played well this entire postseason, but he's far from the best goalie in the league like he was a few years ago. The top six forwards on the Golden Knights have combined for only one goal in the series. Las Vegas is a much better scoring team than that. The Golden Knights are way overdue. They've also had plenty of time to see and adjust now to Montreal's 1-1-3 neutral zone blockage style of play. So I see Las Vegas making the proper adjustments - both on the ice and in their heads - while their overdue scorers finally break out with the season on the brink. |
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06-14-21 | Canadiens +1.5 v. Golden Knights | Top | 1-4 | Loss | -124 | 30 h 22 m | Show |
Few, if any, thought Montreal would be one of the four finalists for the Stanley Cup. But here the Canadiens are. They are loose, playing on house money and in a great position to ambush the host Golden Knights in Monday's opening game of their semifinal series. The Canadiens are rested and prepared having not played in a week after sweeping Winnipeg. The Golden Knights still could be partying after taking care of Colorado in a hard-fought, exciting six-game series that concluded Thursday night. Las Vegas is the superior team. No argument there. But it's a mistake to underestimate Montreal like the oddsmaker has done. So taking 1 1/2 goals on the puck line with Montreal makes tremendous sense. Can the Canadiens actually pull this first game upset? They just have to hang close - and there are signs they can do just that. Montreal has won seven in a row. The Canadiens have a winning road mark. They also have defeated the Golden Knights during their past four meetings with the last coming last year since the teams did not meet this season. Las Vegas played only West Division teams. This is the Golden Knights' first game versus a team outside the West Division. Carey Price could be the hottest goalie of the postseason. He's 8-3 with a 1.97 goals against average and a .935 save percentage. Las Vegas goalies, by comparison, have given up 2.4 goals during the playoffs with a .908 save percentage. The Golden Knights lost Game 1 of their opening playoff series against the Wild. They also lost in Game 1 against Colorado. The Canadiens eliminating the Maple Leafs was as impressive as the Golden Knights taking out the Avalanche. Montreal would be 11-2 in its last 13 games if given 1 1/2 goals. Las Vega would be 3-6 in its last nine games if minus 1 1/2 goals. |
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05-19-21 | Canucks v. Flames UNDER 6 | Top | 2-6 | Loss | -100 | 8 h 38 m | Show |
Neither Vancouver nor Calgary have made the playoffs. This is the final regular season game for them - and it's a totally meaningless contest. It's the third game in four days between the two teams. It's a day game, too, another plus for the Under. It's been a long and unrewarding season for both the Canucks and Flames. The players just want the season to finally end so they can go on vacation. So I'm greatly anticipating a listless matchup lacking any energy or fast tempo.
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05-12-21 | Maple Leafs v. Senators +170 | Top | 3-4 | Win | 170 | 18 h 30 m | Show |
This is a huge Ontario rivalry. Given the circumstances, the Senators probably should be the favorite instead of a massive home 'dog. The Maple Leafs have nothing to play for in this game. They have already clinched the North Division and the No. 1 seed in the division. Toronto coach Sheldon Keefe has made it clear his intention and priority is to rest healthy players and get his injured players slowly back into form if they are able to play. Another priority is getting rusty goalie Frederik Andersen up to speed. Andersen has been the Maple Leafs' first string goalie. However, he hasn't played in the NHL since March 19 due to a knee injury. Andersen didn't look good in a couple of AHL appearances, but Keefe wants to prepare him for the playoffs. He has this game and the Leafs' final regular season game on Friday against the Jets to do that. Ottawa has been playing well going 8-3 in its last 11 games. The Senators, though, are off a bad 6-1 road loss to the Flames this past Sunday. This is Ottawa's final game of the season since it won't be in the playoffs. The Senators want to close their season looking good. So this is a much more important game for them. This has been a home team series, too, lately with the host winning four of the past five times. |
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05-10-21 | Blues v. Kings +120 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -100 | 15 h 11 m | Show |
You may think this is a cheap price for the Blues to lay against the Kings, who won't be making the playoffs. This is all about the situation, though. St. Louis clinched a playoff spot this past Friday. The Blues are locked into the fourth spot in the Pacific Division regardless of this outcome. So Blues coach Craig Berube isn't going to risk an injury to any of his players. He's going to be resting his regulars and getting ready for the postseason. The Blues have eight regulars who are 30 or older. The Kings won't be letting up. This is their final home game so a strong effort should be forthcoming. LA coach Todd McLellan has made it clear to his team - both youngsters and veterans - that they are playing for their jobs and futures. The Kings have shown determination and competitiveness in their last four games beating the Coyotes - who still held playoff hope at the time - twice and losing to the powerful Avalanche twice by one goal in each loss. |
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05-03-21 | Kings v. Coyotes -134 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -134 | 18 h 41 m | Show |
This late in the regular season, it's vital to find out which teams have incentive AND are playing hard and which teams have packed it in. This contrast between these two teams was made obvious this past weekend. The Coyotes showed life and energy nearly sweeping the powerful Golden Knights at home. Arizona is pushing for the final playoff spot in the West Division. The Coyotes ended Las Vegas' 10-game win streak this past Friday with a 3-0 victory and then nearly upset the Golden Knights again on Saturday losing, 3-2, in overtime. The Kings were the complete opposite. Even though mathematically their playoff hopes are alive, the players and coach know they aren't achieving the impossible. They are not making the postseason. LA nipped the Ducks, 2-1, this past Friday by scoring in the final minute. The Ducks, who have the second-fewest points in the NHL, then soundly whacked the listless Kings, 6-2, Saturday night. Following that loss to the Ducks this is what Kings coach Todd McLellan had to say, "We're not going to make the playoffs. I just don't see how that's going to happen." Now both teams have to suck it up and play their third game in four days. The Coyotes are 4-0 the past four times when favored. The Kings are 2-7 the past nine times when playing for the third time in four days. |
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04-30-21 | Golden Knights v. Coyotes +1.5 | Top | 0-3 | Win | 100 | 19 h 14 m | Show |
The Coyotes are in desperation, must-win mode win trailing the Blues for the final playoff spot in the West Division. The Coyotes have a winning record in their past nine home games and are primed to give a strong effort here. The Golden Knights, on the other hand, enter this matchup fat and happy. Their playoff ticket is punched and they are off a highly-satisfying, 5-2, home victory against the Avalanche this past Wednesday. The Golden Knights regard the Avalanche as their main competitor in the Western Conference. This is a prime letdown spot for Las Vegas. So this sets up as a great ambush spot for Arizona. But to play it safe, I'm going to lay the juice and take 1 1/2 goals on the puck line. |
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04-27-21 | Red Wings v. Blue Jackets -130 | Top | 0-1 | Win | 100 | 14 h 27 m | Show |
This could be the first time I've ever laid a mid-size price with a team that has lost nine in a row. But I really see the Blue Jackets halting their losing skid. Columbus is home to Detroit. That's the reason. Columbus nearly ended its losing streak this past Sunday falling to defending Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay, 4-3, in overtime. The Red Wings have been an underdog in each of their last 56 road games. Their record in these contests is 9-47 for 16 percent. Detroit has lost in six of its last seven visits to Columbus. Detroit last played on Saturday falling, 2-1, to the Stars in overtime. That score was misleading, though. The Red Wings were outshot, 52-17. Detroit goalie Jonathan Bernier played well over his head. Elvis Merzlikins is likely to be in net for Columbus. I prefer him over either of Detroit's goalies, Bernier or Thomas Greiss. Discounting a freak 7-3 home win against the Stars, the Red Wings have scored five goals in their last four games. The Red Wings have limited firepower and that has been reduced with injuries to three centers, including Dylan Larkin, and right winger Bobby Ryan. |
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04-18-21 | Maple Leafs -1.5 v. Canucks | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -114 | 10 h 10 m | Show |
Toronto is one of the best teams in hockey. The Maple Leafs are in rare stop-the-pain mode losers of three in a row, including an embarrassing 5-2 home loss to the Jets in their last game this past Thursday. The Maple Leafs are in a great scheduling spot here. They draw Vancouver, which hasn't played since March 24 because of an outbreak of COVID-19 that affected 22 of its players. Not only have the Canucks not played since then, but they've only been able to practice once during this long idle period. They still could be down as many as seven players. The Canucks certainly could use more time to get ready, but the league is anxious for them to resume their season. The Canucks are not up to par physically or mentally. I can't see them hanging close to the Maple Leafs regardless if Austin Matthews, the NHL's top goal scorer, plays or not after sitting out Thursday with a hand injury. Toronto has won five of the last six times it has been a road favorite. They are in a great spot to add to that record.
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04-11-21 | Rangers v. Islanders -118 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 16 h 54 m | Show |
The Islanders don't often lose at home. But they are coming off a bad 4-1 defeat to the Rangers at Nassau Coliseum this past Friday. That halted a five-game home win streak for the Islanders. The Islanders, though, had been playing with fire narrowly winning their previous home game, 3-2, against the Flyers in a shootout. The Islanders have won 23 of their last 31 home contests. They are 17-2-2 at Nassau Coliseum this season, tied with the Avalanche for most home victories. Barry Trotz is one of the top coaches in the NHL. I don't envision the Islanders playing a third consecutive flat game at home. The Rangers were beaten by the lowly Sabres in their previous road game prior to defeating the Islanders. Depth is going to factor here since both teams are in action for the fourth time in six days. The Islanders are 7-0 the past seven times they were in a 4-in-6 situation.
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03-31-21 | Flyers v. Sabres +1.5 | Top | 1-6 | Win | 100 | 15 h 22 m | Show |
The Sabres won't have a better chance of ending their hideous 18-game losing streak than right here. But can they be trusted? Heck no. That's why I'm backing them on the puck line taking 1 1/2 goals and laying juice believing this is going to be an extremely close game between two teams who are playing terribly. It sure went that way this past Monday night. Buffalo jumped to a 3-0 lead before proceeding to lose, 4-3 in overtime. It may have been the Sabres' most frustrating loss of the season, which is saying a lot since you need a calculator to add up all of their defeats. Now the Sabres get their revenge opportunity. Motivation can mean everything, but it won't work if the talent level isn't there. Fortunately for the Sabres, the Flyers are extremely mediocre with the worst defense and penalty kill in the league. Philadelphia is 5-9 in its last 14 games. If laying 1 1/2 goals, the Flyers would be riding a 16-game losing streak themselves. They haven't won a game by more than one goal this entire month.
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03-26-21 | Sharks v. Coyotes -120 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 20 h 34 m | Show |
The Coyotes are coming off perhaps their biggest win of the season, 5-4 in a shootout, at home against Colorado. I don't see a letdown. Instead I see the Coyotes building off their win knowing they are in the playoff hunt and can't afford a home loss here. A loss to San Jose would nullify the victory over Colorado, which occurred this past Tuesday. Arizona is 11-4 the last 15 times when playing on two days rest. San Jose enters this matchup fat and happy having swept two close games at home against the Kings. The Sharks are 3-10 the past 13 times following a win. The Sharks' defense has shown improvement. San Jose, though, still is among the bottom-three in goals allowed and shots on goal. The Coyotes are riding with third-string goalie Adin Hill. I'm fine with that after how well Hill looked against the high-powered Avalanche. No team fires more shots on goal than Colorado. Hill made 35 saves, including seven in overtime several of which were huge. San Jose is averaging just 2.2 goals in its last four games. The Coyotes have picked up their scoring producing 11 goals in their last three games. |
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03-17-21 | Sharks v. Golden Knights -1.5 | Top | 4-5 | Loss | -100 | 19 h 44 m | Show |
Returning home from a six-game road trip, the Golden Knights were far from sharp when they hosted San Jose this past Monday. Sure enough Las Vega was flat. But the Golden Knights still managed to beat San Jose, 2-1. Now the Golden Knights are more rested and primed to destroy the opponent they hate the most. Las Vegas is the vastly superior team and won't lack motivation. The Golden Knights are third defensively giving up 2.2 goals per game. Marc-Andre Fleury is in the argument for best goalie this season. Las Vegas is a top-10 scoring team. The Sharks give up the most goals per game in the league at 3.5. They also allow the second-most shots on goal. Las Vegas has defeated San Jose five times in a row. The Sharks are 6-13 the past 19 times when playing on one day's rest. The Golden Knights have won 69 percent of their last 52 home contests. Kill spot here so I'm laying 1 1/2 goals on the puck line. |
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03-15-21 | Sharks v. Golden Knights OVER 6 | Top | 1-2 | Loss | -118 | 16 h 51 m | Show |
Las Vegas has averaged 4 goals a game in going 3-0 versus the Sharks this season. San Jose ranks 31st defensively allowing 3.6 goals a game. Given their depth, which includes four strong lines, and deep hatred of the Sharks the Golden Knights should be good for at least four goals again. The Golden Knights have scored 3 or more goals in nine of their last 10 games, hitting five goals in half of those games. The Sharks have tallied 3 or more goals in six of their last eight games, scoring six goals in three of those games. Marc-Andre Fleury has been brilliant for Las Vegas leading the NHL in GAA at 1.181 and save percentage at .935. The 36-year-old Fleury, however, is carrying a high fatigue rating having started 15 of the last 16 games. He was saved from going on COVID-19 protocol after a false-positive Covid-19 test this past Thursday. At some point, the Golden Knights are going to need to give Fleury a rest day. Obviously it would be a major bonus to the Over if that came here. |
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03-11-21 | Canadiens v. Flames -114 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 17 h 27 m | Show |
Calgary is close to being in must-win mode and this spot sets up beautifully for the Flames. Montreal just beat the Canucks in Vancouver, 5-1, late Wednesday night. So Montreal didn't get into Calgary until the wee hours of the morning. This will be the Canadiens' third game in four days and they will be playing without rest. Backup goalie Jake Allen likely will be in net since Carey Price played Wednesday. The Canadiens lost key defenseman Ben Chiarot to injury in that victory. The Flames are six points behind the Canadiens for the final playoff spot in the NHL's North Division. So this is a crucial matchup for the Flames with a potential four-point swing at play. Calgary certainly isn't going to lack motivation and preparation. No-nonsense Darryl Sutter has taken over as coach at Calgary. This will be his first game behind the bench. Flames assistant coach Ryan Huska acted as the team's head coach during the last two games following the firing of Geoff Ward a week ago. The Flames lost those games to the Oilers and lowly Senators. Calgary hasn't played since Sunday. Sutter has put the Flames through intense practices in anticipation of winning this game and getting his underacheiving team on track. This is what Sutter was quoted as saying on Wednesday, "Montreal is in our division and they’re a very good hockey club. Right now, we’re behind them in the standings so we know the importance of tomorrow night and the bottom line is we’ll be ready for it.” I don't doubt him. |
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02-21-21 | Flyers v. Bruins UNDER 5.5 | Top | 3-7 | Loss | -110 | 16 h 27 m | Show |
Colorado defeated Las Vegas, 3-2, on Saturday. I mention this because that game holds importance to this matchup and is a reason why I like the Under. The Avalanche-Golden Knights game was played outdoors on a golf course in Stateline, Nev., which is near Lake Tahoe. That game started during the day and had to resume at night after around an eight-hour delay. The reason for this was melting snow causing bad ice conditions as there were no clouds and unseasonably warm temperatures. Players had trouble with their balance and were falling down. There was one goal scored in the first period. The Flyers and Bruins will meet in this same venue with similar weather conditions. Realizing this, the NHL moved the start time back from late morning West Coast time until 4:30 p.m. West Coast time. So there still should be sun and daylight for at least the first period. This is going to make the ice more sticky and slower than normal compared to indoor rinks, which the players are used to. Note, too, the site of this game is in high altitude up in the mountains so attacking players are likely to run out of breath sooner. Philadelphia is missing much of its offense with Claude Giroux, Travis Konecny, Jakub Voracek, Oskar Lindblom and Scott Laughton all out because of COVID-19 protocols. The short-handed Flyers have managed just nine goals in their last four games, an average of 2.2 goals per game during this span. The Bruins should play with great intensity having lost their last two games. They've scored just 10 goals in their past five games, an average of 2.0 goals a game. Boston will be minus David Krejci, its second-best center. He suffered a lower-body injury in Boston's last game. |
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02-17-21 | Jets v. Oilers UNDER 6.5 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 16 h 25 m | Show |
The Jets edged the Oilers, 6-5, in a wild offensive showing this past Monday. Neither coach nor players from both teams were happy about that. So I'm expecting far better defensive performances, conservative game plans and more sustained checking. Winnipeg is a top-10 defensive team. Prior to Monday's matchup against the Oilers, the Jets had surrendered just nine goals in their last five games. Edmonton has yielded just three goals in its last three games previous to the Jets' game of two days ago.
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02-16-21 | Wild v. Kings +123 | Top | 0-4 | Win | 123 | 16 h 34 m | Show |
If there's a non-West Coast team the Kings most would like to beat it probably is Minnesota. The Wild beat the Kings twice in heart-breaking fashion earlier this season in LA winning both, 4-3, in overtime. The teams then met twice in Minneapolis in late January. The Kings got a split in that series. Now the Kings have a golden opportunity to gain a measure of revenge from those two earlier home defeats to the Wild. LA should be ready and energized, having last played on Thursday. That's nothing compared to the Wild, though. Minnesota has been out of action for the past two weeks due to COVID-19. The Wild are going to be without many of their regular players. The list of those who are include goalie Cam Talbot, defensemen Ian Cole, Jonas Brodin, Brad Hunt and Carson Souch. Forwards Nick Bonino, Victor Rask and Nico Sturm also are out. So the Wild will be rusty and short-handed. Minnesota has managed just one goal in three of its last five games. The Kings have suffered a lot of close losses this season, but they are capable, having won games against the Blues and Avalanche. |
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02-15-21 | Islanders -140 v. Sabres | Top | 3-1 | Win | 100 | 14 h 30 m | Show |
The Islanders have picked up their game going 3-1 in their last four games with the lone loss during this span coming in a shootout loss to the Penguins following a late Pittsburgh goal in regulation. The Islanders have their confidence back up after upsetting the Bruins in their last game, 4-2, this past Saturday. Because of COVID-19, the Sabres have yet to play this month. Buffalo finally is back in action, but will be without defensemen Rasmus Ristolainen, Jake McCabe and Brandon Montour along with forwards Dylan Cozens and Tobias Rieder. All are in COVID protocols. The Sabres have a losing home record. They entered their long layoff having allowed at least three goals in five of their last six games. The Islanders have dominated this series winning eight of the past 10 times.
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02-09-21 | Sharks v. Kings OVER 5.5 | Top | 4-3 | Win | 100 | 14 h 36 m | Show |
The Sharks averaged 3 goals per game in their last two games both against the Ducks, who have the eighth-best defense in the NHL. Now the Sharks drop down in class to face the Kings, who rank 26th defensively and allow the fifth-most shots on goal. LA has permitted at least 3 goals in nine of its 11 games. Not helping matters for the Kings is they are shorthanded on the blue line with injuries to Matt Roy and Sean Walker. The Kings, though, should do damage against a weak San Jose State defense that has allowed at least 3 goals in eight of its 10 games. The Sharks rank 28th defensively and 29th in shots allowed. Neither team gets very good goaltending either.
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02-01-21 | Bruins -135 v. Capitals | Top | 5-3 | Win | 100 | 13 h 56 m | Show |
Despite being short-handed due to injuries and COVID-19 issues, the Capitals have managed to go 6-3. The Capitals' first eight games were two against the Penguins early in the season when Pittsburgh was struggling, four games against the Sabres, who have a losing record, and two games against the 3-6 Islanders. Finally the Capitals stepped up in class this past Saturday. They nipped the Bruins, 4-3, in overtime. I don't see the Capitals doing it again in this Boston revenge spot. The Bruins scored three of the last four goals. They outshot Washington, 43-23. It was clear to me the Bruins were the better team. Alex Ovehckin did return after missing four games due to COVID-19 protocols. But the Bruins also got back their superstar, David Pastrnak. He played more than 20 minutes, while Ovechkin was limited to fewer than 15 minutes of ice time. The Capitals still could remain short-handed. Justin Schultz, Lars Eller, Evgeny Kuznetsov and starting goalie Ilya Samsonov are all day-to-day. Washington has lost 12 of the last 16 times following a victory. The Capitals are in action for the fifth time in nine days. All but one of their last seven games have been decided by one goal. So there has been a physical and mental toll on the Capitals. The Bruins are an elite team that should take advantage especially given the situation. |
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01-26-21 | Islanders -129 v. Capitals | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -129 | 15 h 43 m | Show |
Surprised the Islanders are a mid-sized road favorite against the Capitals? Shouldn't be because the spot and situation set up well for New York. The Islanders enter this two-game series off a 2-0 loss to the Devils this past Sunday. Islanders coach Barry Trotz was not happy about that defeat and he let his team know about it. Trotz should have his squad ready and fired-up to play his former team. So I'm expecting an all-out effort from the Islanders. The Capitals are 0-7 the past seven times they've hosted the patient and defensive-minded Islanders, a team that has frustrated them with their style. The Islanders are strong again defensively ranking third in fewest goals allowed per game and fourth in penalty kill. Washington is highly vulnerable right now with Alex Ovechkin, Evgeny Kuznetsov, Dimitry Orlov and starting goalie Ilya Samsonov all on the COVID-19 list. In addition, enforcer Tom Wilson is likely out, too, because of a lower body injury. The Capitals have managed three victories because they've played four of their six games against the Sabres. They are 3-1 versus Buffalo. Their other two games were losses to the Penguins. |
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01-25-21 | Senators v. Canucks OVER 6 | Top | 1-7 | Win | 100 | 16 h 10 m | Show |
I'm very surprised this total opened at 6 with juice instead of 6 1/2 or even 7 given the low quality of these defenses. Ottawa ranks 29th defensively giving up 4.0 goals a game. Vancouver is even worse. The Canucks surrender an NHL-high 4.7 goals per game. They also allow the second-most shots on goal. Vancouver has given up an average of five goals a game during its past six games. The good news for the Canucks is they have young, talented goal scorers. One of these is Elias Pettersson, who is starting to emerge out of an early-season scoring slump. The Canucks should get their share of goals against an Ottawa squad that just surrendered four goals in the third period during its last game, a 6-3 road loss to the Jets this past Saturday. The Senators have permitted at least three goals in all five of their games. Goalie Matt Murray has not looked good in the early going. The Over has cashed during the past four meetings between the two teams. That trend should continue as I'm expecting a loose game from two teams with a combined 3-9 record. |
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01-21-21 | Flyers v. Bruins -130 | Top | 4-5 | Win | 100 | 12 h 29 m | Show |
Their defense has been there for the Bruins despite losing two of their first three games. Boston has permitted only five goals in three games. The Bruins very well could be 3-0 and we'd be seeing a much higher price. Boston was nipped, 2-1 in overtime, by the host Devils and fell 1-0 to the Islanders on the road in which they outshot New York, 27-17, during their past two games. I don't see Boston losing a third game in a row especially now that it gets to play its first home game. The Bruins' offense will come around even without injured David Pastrnak. I believe that happens here. Flyers goalie Carter Hart is off to a slow start with a 3.66 goals against average. The Flyers are short-handed on the blue line, too. Philadelphia went 1-1 in its last two games both against the Sabres. Buffalo outshot Philadelphia, 77-52, in those two games.
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01-14-21 | Islanders -105 v. Rangers | Top | 4-0 | Win | 100 | 15 h 57 m | Show |
By the end of the season, the Rangers could prove dangerous. But right now the Rangers are somewhat vulnerable being one of the youngest teams in the league. The patient, well-coached, savvy Islanders are a bad first-game matchup for the Rangers. The Rangers' home ice edge is greatly reduced, too, with no fans allowed in the stands and the Islanders just having to make a short trip. The absence of exhibition games hurts the Rangers far more than the Islanders, who retain virtually their entire roster that took Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay to six games in the Eastern Conference finals. Morale is up for the Islanders after they were able to sign Mathew Barzal to a contact extension last week. |
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09-14-20 | Stars v. Golden Knights OVER 5 | Top | 3-2 | Push | 0 | 15 h 33 m | Show |
The total for each of the first four games of this Western Conference Finals series has been lined at 5 1/2. Each game has gone Under. The oddsmaker has finally adjusted moving the total down to 5. So now is the time to play Over. The Golden Knights are in desperation territory down 3-1. Las Vegas finds itself on the brink of elimination despite outshooting the Stars, 105-67. Dallas backup goalie Anton Khudobin has played well above his head. The Stars realize they can't keep getting lucky winning low-scoring games while relying on Khudobin to bail them out. They have to step up their attack like did when they took out Colorado during their previous series. Dallas averaged four goals per game during that seven-game series. The Stars' power play has managed just one goal. So that is due to change, too. I envision a much more up-tempo game than what we've seen so far in the series. The Golden Knights will be aggressively attacking with all four of their quality lines. This could result in a much higher scoring game for them. If it fails, the total still is very much live to go Over as the Golden Knights won't hesitate to pull their goalie early if down by one goal and keep their goalie on the bench, too, if the Stars score an empty-netter to go up by two goals. This is a scenario that happens when teams face elimination.
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09-08-20 | Stars v. Golden Knights UNDER 5.5 | Top | 0-3 | Win | 100 | 18 h 5 m | Show |
The Golden Knights have picked a bad time to have their offense go cold. Las Vegas has managed just four goals in its last four games. The Golden Knights have scored just two goals when a goalie was in net during their last 240 minutes - and none of those goals was scored by a forward or center. The Golden Knights have scored two or fewer goals in seven of their last 11 games if you don't include a pair of empty net goals in their Game 7 victory against the Canucks. The Stars can play up-tempo as they showed against the Avalanche, or revert back to their natural, conservative defensive style. That's what they did in Game 1 of this series in defeating Las Vegas, 1-0. I expect the Stars to stick to their natural style knowing how cold the Golden Knights' forwards are. Dallas prefers a tight-checking methodical game especially when Anton Khudobin is in net. The Stars know how important it is to protect Khudobin. A quote from Golden Knights coach Peter DeBoer is telling. This is what he was quoted as saying following Game 1: "...They (the Stars) play a hard, heavy game. They make you work for your offense. This is going to be a different series, and we're going to have to get our head around that and find a way to create offense. It's not going to look or feel like the Chicago series or the Vancouver series." |