Arizona is off a huge win vs the Nashville Preds on Thursday night but will now suffer what Im betting will be an emotional let down situation. ARIZONA is 1-9 ATS  off a close home win by 1 goal over the last 2 seasons. I know the Bruins played last night in Dallas but are one of the NHLs best conditioned teams and have also had a great deal of success here in the desert in the past as the  Bruins are 7-0 in the last 7 meetings in Phoenix. 

ARIZONA is 27-80 ATS when playing against a marginal winning team (Win Pct. 51% to 60%).

Play on the Boston Bruins to win on the moneyline 

The Bruins take on a under rated Colorado Avs team that just ended a nasty five-game losing streak on Sunday vs the Edmonton Oilers. Three of those losses ere hard luck defeats that could have gone either way. With Colorado getting healthy again with key players returning including,Tyson Jost,Matt Nieto, they are formidable opponents on their own home ice. 

Avalanche are 5-1 in their last 6 vs. Atlantic.Avalanche are 4-1 in their last 5 vs. Eastern Conference.Avalanche are 6-2 in their last 8 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.Avalanche are 22-10 in their last 32 home games.Bruins are 2-5 in their last 7 vs. Western Conference.Bruins are 5-13 in their last 18 road games.Bruins are 2-6 in their last 8 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.

COLORADO is 7-1 ATS after failing to cover 6 or 7 of their last 8 against the spread over the last 2 season

COLORADO is 11-4 ATS  in home games when playing against a marginal winning team (Win Pct. 51% to 60%) over the last 2 seasons and are  21-12 ATS  in home games against excellent power play teams- scoring on 17.5%  or more of their chances over the last 2 seasons.COLORADO is 20-9 ATS  in a home game where the total is 6 or more over the last 2 seasons.

Play on the Colorado Avs to win on the moneyline 

The Sabres are playing decent hockey and deserve some respect, but TB is a Stanley Cup contender in top form that is not over looking tonights opposition.  This is what the Lightning players are thinking as they enter this game.  QUOTE:" "Anytime you're on road trips like this, you try to get wins early, especially that Buffalo game," Lightning right winger Ryan Callahan said. "Try to get points. Stack them up. As the road trip goes on, it definitely gets harder and harder to win some of those games." END QUOTE: The Bolts are rested and know the importance of getting out of the gate fast on what is the beginning of a key 4 game road trip. Im betting on them being motivated behind superior overall talent levels in all three phases of the game. 

TAMPA BAY is 23-5 ATS when playing against a team with a winning record in the first half of the season over the last 2 seasons.TAMPA BAY is 10-1 ATS  in road games after scoring 3 goals or more in 4 straight games over the last 2 seasons, which has just occurred. BUFFALO is 0-8 ATS after having won 3 of their last 4 games over the last 2 seasons.

Play on the TB Bolts to win on the moneyline 

The Rangers (8-7-2) have won five of their last six (5-0-1) and are playing solid fundamental hockey and deserve their favorite status here tonight vs a Canucks team that is 1-0-2 in their L/3 road games.  The Rangers are off a couple of road games and have good bets in this situation this seasonNY RANGERS are 4-0 ATS after playing 2 consecutive road games this season.

NY Rangers are 3-1 L/4 meetings overall in this series.

The Rangers (7-7-1) have won four straight and the Red Wings (5-8-2) have four victories in their past five games. Both teams are playing well, but the Rangers matchup well against this Motown team according to my power rankings, and get my support here tonight. 

NY Rangers to win on the moneyline 

Chicago Blackhawks  host the Carolina Canes  at the United Center riding a five-game losing streak and are playing disheartened hockey after long time Stanley Cup winning coach Joel  Quenneville was  fired. A few of the veterans were disheartened by the move. With a AHL HC Colliton now in place , the Hawks might have even more problems as they adjust to a new system under a 33 year old coach that might not get a lot of respect from his team right out of the gate. Carolina has also lost 5 straight, and might not inspire bettors , but they are the more cohesive of the two teams right now overall, and won't be making a major adjustments in their system like the Hawks are expected to do. 

Play on Carolina to win on the moneyline 

The Panthers haven't played since beating the Winnipeg Jets 4-2 last Friday in Finland and should be on fresh legs going against a  tired Edmonton team that is playing their 4th straight road game in a 8 day stretch. 

FLORIDA is 22-8 ATS  in home games against good offensive teams -29 shots on goal, convert 17% or more pp over the last 2 seasons. 

Play on Florida to win on the moneyline 

The Coyotes had their 5 game win streak end last time out to the hands of this same Philadelphia team back in Arizona a couple of nights ago by a 5-2 count. Now the Coyotes will be out to reap some revenge for that loss knowing that the road team has cashed 4 straight times in this series. Phoenix has really turned. a proverbial corner and is up trending and despite of  losing to the Flyers   in that above mentioned game my power rankings  suggest the host is fade material here in this spot as they are still on tired legs after a 4 game road trip. 

Flyers are 1-5 in their last 6 home games following a road trip of 7 or more days.Flyers are 1-5 in their last 6 games following a win. Flyers are 0-9 in their last 9 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game.

Play on the Arizona Coyotes to win 

The Oilers might have a big name super star in their lineup McDavid, but they still dont do alot of scoring consistently as their 17th ranking in goals scored indicates. Their defence is actually the corner stone of their ability to compete in the NHL and they rank 14th overall. Meanwhile, TB despite of alot offensive talent , predicate their successes and failures on their ability to play solid D, and rank 8th in in goals allowed in the league. Tonight I expect a tired Oilers team playing their 3rd game in 4 nights to try to be conservative in their approach , and for TB to center its abilities on slowing McDavid, which Im betting results in a low scoring affair that fails to eclipse the number. 

NHLRoad teams where the total is 6 or more (EDMONTON) - extremely tired team - playing their 3rd road game in 4 days, winning between 51% and 60% of their games on the season in the first half of the season 26-6 UNDER L/21 seasons for 81% conversion rate for bettors on the blind. 

 

Play UNDER

The Vegas Knights are finally starting to play like an expansion team, after surprising the hockey world with a run to the Stanley cup Finals last season. But after tweeking their lineup the same chemistry and magic they had has somehow vanished, especially of late, as is evident by losing 4 of their L/5 games. Tonight I expect things won't get much better vs a Carolina team, that despite of not playing very well themselves are a hard working group that matchup well against the Knights according to my power rankings  and cross reference system vs system matchup analysis. Note: Vegas key cogs Max Pacioretty and Paul Stastny have been out with injuries and Nate Schmidt has been unavailable due to a suspension.

CAROLINA is 12-1 ATS  against struggling teams - outscored by opponents by 0.5+ goals/game over the last 2 seasons and is 13-2 ATS  when playing against a struggling  team (Win Pct. 25% to 40%) over the last 2 seasons.

NHL Road teams against the money line (CAROLINA) - cold team - having lost 6 or 7 of their last 8 games, a marginal losing team (40% to 49%) playing a struggling team (25-40%) are 27-8 L/5 seasons for a 77% conversion rate for bettors.

NHL team against the money line (CAROLINA) - after 3 straight close losses by 1 goal against opponent after playing a game where 7 or more total goals were scored are 26-8 L/5 seasons for a 77% conversion rate for bettors.

 Play on Carolina to win on the moneyline 

Colorado despite of a current tow game losing streak will be primed to end their drought behind the  top line of Mikko Rantanen, Nathan MacKinnon and Gabriel Landeskog  a dangerous group that the Canucks will have a hard time dealing with tonight. All three rank among the NHL's top scorers and the  Avs are contending for first place in the Central Division. With that said, Im betting on the Avs to hand the injury riddled /rebuilding Vancouver Canucks a loss tonight on the road. Yes, I know the Canucks have won two straight and  pulled off some impressive upsets playing strict disciplined systemic hockey but that ends in this spot vs a side that is both fundamentally sound , more talented and healthier and currently much hungrier. 

NHL teams when the money line is -100 to -150 (COLORADO) - good closing team-outscoring opp by 0.2+ goals/game in third period, after allowing 5 goals or more are 53-19 L/5 seasons for a 74% conversion rate for bettors on the blind.

Play on the Colorado Avs to win on the moneyline 

Star forward Austin Mathews is expected to miss 4 to 6 weeks with a shoulder injury, and was apparent the scoring sensations absence effected the chemistry of the attack, as  Toronto’s first full game without Matthews  saw the Buds lose 3-1 at home to Calgary  Flames on Oct. 29. Toronto  produced just  25 shots in that game. Im betting that will continue tonight vs visiting Dallas. Meanwhile, Dallas enters this game on tired legs as this will be their 3rd game in 4 nights, and the will be in no hurry to open things up and instead depend on their transition game .  This combination of situations will result in a lower scoring game than the Total line indicates. 

In 7 home games the Leafs and their opponents have averaged 5 gpg. Dallas in their 4 games vs on the road have seen a combined average of 4.7 gpg scored and they themselves have averaged just 1.7 gpg in those tilts. 

TORONTO is 5-0 UNDER  against good passing teams - averaging 5 or more assists per game this season and is 5-0 UNDER  against good offensive teams - averaging 29.5+ shots on goal per game this season.TORONTO is 7-1 UNDER against poor defensive teams - opponents average 29.5+ shots on goal this season.TORONTO is 13-4 UNDER in home games in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.

NHL Road teams where the total is 6 or more (DALLAS) - tired team - playing their 3rd road game in 5 days, winning between 51% and 60% of their games on the season in the first half of the season are 60-17 UNDER L/22 seasons for a 78% conversion rate for bettors.

Play UNDER 

The Vegas Knights are exhibiting classic Stanley Cup finals hangover symptoms and are starting to play alot more like a expansion team. Opponents  are now well prepared to take on the the Golden Knights' system as the Knights now  rank 28thin the league in scoring. Big offseason acquisitions such as Max Pacioretty and Paul Stastny have yet to pay off as the chemistry of late seasons team seem to have been disturbed. Meanwhile, the Preds  8-3 on the season, despite of a couple of inconsistent efforts of late  remain a contender for Lord Stanleys Cup and must be respected .  Also if star Goalie Pekka Rhine does not play tonight because of injury his backup, Saros has been above expectations and has garnered a solid  5-2-0 record along with a solid 2.73 GAA and .912 save percentage.

NASHVILLE is 14-4 ATS against good possession teams-averaging 3+ more shots on goal than opp over the last 2 seasons.NASHVILLE is 10-0 ATS  after allowing 3 goals or more 3 straight games over the last 2 seasons

NHL Road underdogs of +100 to +200 against the money line (VEGAS) - after having won 4 or 5 of their last 6 games, a marginal losing team (40% to 49%) playing a winning team in the first half of the season are 8-40 L/5 seasons for a go against 83% conversion rate for bettors on the blind.

Play on the Nashville Preds to win on the moneylline 

After starting their season slowly the Minnesota Wild are now rolling as is evident by winning 5 straight games. Meanwhile,  rebuilding Vancouver started off surprisingly strong and are now fading and playing the type of  mediocre hockey many of the pundits expected before this season began. The Canucks have lost 2 straight and 3 of their L/4 and were smashed 5-0 by the Penguins last time out. Injuries are also starting to pile up for the young men from Vancouver, and they look to be at a disadvantage vs a side that is currently in top form. 

Canucks are 3-12 in their last 15 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. are 6-2 in the last 8 meetings in Vancouver.Road team is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings.

Play on the Minnesota Wild to win 

Anaheim currently allows the most shots on goal per game in the NHL at 38.2 while taking the fewest (24) ad are really struggling to get in a rhythm and have now lost four straight games. Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks had a 3 game win streak end last time out, after blowing a 2-0 lead, and will now be primed to bounce back, and also get a revenge for a opening night 5-2 home loss suffered to this same Ducks team. Key words here tonight for the Sharks are redemption and revenge. 

Sharks are 23-8 in their last 31 vs. Pacific.Sharks are 20-8 in their last 28 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game.Sharks are 41-18 in their last 59 vs. a team with a losing record.Ducks are 2-6 in their last 8 vs. Pacific.Ducks are 1-5 in their last 6 vs. Western Conference.Ducks are 0-4 in their last 4 overall.Ducks are 0-5 in their last 5 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Sharks are 5-0 in the last 5 meetings in Anaheim.

Play on the San Jose Sharks to win on the moneyline 

The Blues  are off having blown their second straight two-goal lead in a ugly 7-4 loss to the Columbus Blue jackets  , drawing cat calls and  boos from what was left of the 17,068 in attendance at Enterprise Center. It was not a good seen, and some key players actually apologized to the fans afterwards. QUOTE:"It (stinks)," Tarasenko said. "If I had more English words I would explain this, but not much. It feels (bad) to be doing this in front of our fans. This is not the most fun time in our life and in my life personally. I don't know if you can (stink) more and then you get out of it. END QUOTE:The locker room was closed for 23 minutes after Thursday's game, and obviously some things were said, that should ignite the Blues to much better performance against long time original six rivals the  Chicago Blackhawks tonight. Meanwhile, Chicago has been playing well but their on tired legs with this being their 3rd game in 5 nights, and will be at a disadvantage against a very motivated team out looking for redemption.CHICAGO is 19-31 ATS   when playing their 3rd game in 5 days over the last 2 seasons.

NHL Road teams against the money line (CHICAGO) - after 2 straight wins by 2 goals or more against opponent after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game are 36-73 L/5 seasons for a go against 67% conversion rate for bettors.

NHL Home Teams when the money line is -100 to -150 (ST LOUIS) - poor closing team-outscored by opp by 0.2+ goals/game in third period, after allowing 5 goals or more 2 straight games are 53-18  L/21 seasons for a 75% conversion rate for bettors on the blind.

Play on the St.Louis Blues to win on the moneyline 

The very physical  Winnipeg Jets will be a little cranky after a  4-2 home loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs at home the other night, and will now be ready to take their frustrations out a rebuilding Red Wings team. The Red Wings  have not enjoyed home ice advantage this season and are 0-2-1 at Little Caesar’s Arena . From a ATS perspective they have also been ugly bets failing to cash 8 of 9 times including 0-3 ATS  as hosts. This is not a good opportunity for this young team to try to break out of their funk, and instead a lesson in NHL hockey analytics  could well be at hand. 

Play on the Winnipeg Jets on the -1.5 puck -line

 Both these teams are off wins, but I like the Blackhawks at home tonight as the Hawks seem to reserve their best efforts for lower tier teams as is evident by   16-2 ATS L/18 record when playing against a struggling  team (Win Pct. 25% to 40%) in the first half of the season over the last 3 seasons.The Blackhawks cashed both meetings last season and another winning ticket Im betting is just a few hours aways vs the current rebuilding version of the NY Rangers.

Play on the Chicago Blackhawks to win on the moneyline 

Colorado has been playing well and are on a 3 game win streak, but after coming home tonight off a gruelling 4 game road trip, they could be find themselves in a letdown spot vs a a top tier Stanley Cup contender, who seems to bring their A game when playing up trending  teams like this. 

TAMPA BAY is 8-0 ATS  against good defensive teams - allowing 2.55 or less goals/game over the last 2seasons  .TAMPA BAY is 11-2 ATS  against excellent starting goalies - saving 93% or more of shots against over the last 2 seasons . TAMPA BAY is 18-4 ATS when playing against a team with a winning record in the first half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

Play on the Tampa Bay Lightning to win 

Pekka Rhinne the Predators star goalie is out, and thats why their is value on this line, but Im betting his replacement and back up goalie Saros,  who has not lost a game yet this season is solid backstop to back. He has a 1.54 GAA and .945 save percentage and looks to be every bit the goalie Rhinne is and maybe even better. 

The Predators have won five straight, outscoring their opponents 20-7. They presently have the best record and goal differential (+12) in the NHL and must be respected on their own home ice . San Jose has lost 12 of their L/13 visits to this Arena, and are fade material this type of talented team that matches up very well against them.  

Play on the Nashville Predators to win on the moneyline 

The Rangers might be in a rebuilding year, but their proving themselves a pretty feisty group, and their four losses  have been by two goals or fewer. They also upset the Avs at home last week, and lost 3-2 to the defending Stanley cup champs in their followup. New HC Dave Quinn has the Rangers playing a strict system, and it looks very much like he has the team buying into it, making them a dangerous opponent for a Calgary team, playing on tired legs after traveling from West to East after a hard fought loss to the Predators on Friday night 5-3.

NYR Lundqvist is 8-3-0 in 11 career games against the Flames. Calgary starting backstop  Smith is 5-12-2 in 20 career appearances against the Rangers.

Rangers are 6-0 L/6 at home in this series.

Play on the NY Rangers to win on the moneyline 

The Bolts lost in OT last time out in Minnesota to the Wild after blowing. 3-1 lead and will now be primed for redemption in their followup game. That defeat had broken a 3 game win streak. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks also played last night, and took 4-1 victory vs the Columbus Blue Jackets. But are not of the same talent level as the Bolts, and are at a disadvantage vs a side that does not taking losing lightly especially in the manner they lost last nights tilt.  

TB is 5-0 L/5 vs the Blackhawks.

Blackhawks are 2-7 in their last 9 home games.
Blackhawks are 3-14 in their last 17 games playing on 0 days rest.
Lightning are 4-0 in their last 4 games following OT on the previous day.
Lightning are 4-0 in their last 4 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 situation.
Lightning are 9-2 in their last 11 in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation.

Play on TB Lightning to win

The Bruins despite of two straight losses are a strong veteran team that deserves a lot of respect,.Meanwhile, the  Canucks despite of playing strong hockey early this season are systems team, that also deserves respect for their hard work but are just out talented here by a two way team that is desperate for a win . With that said, take this  boatload full of top tier veteran group to backup their redemption process.

Play on the Boston  Bruins to win 

The powerful Predators played last night, and took a 5-3 win vs Calgary, so scheduling does not give them an edge on that front, but its early in the season, and they will be fresher than many might think as their talent and conditioning is superior to the Oilers. Yes , the Oilers do have the league best player in McDavid, but in the past that has not been a guarantee for anything. With that said, look for the Preds to find a way to get a win, and make it 11 straight wins in this series vs the Oilers. 

Play on the Nashville Preds to win 

Montreal is on a 3 game winning streak, and looking pretty good in their current form behind a now healthy Carey Price who owns a 2-1-1 record with a 2.24 goals against average and .912 save percentage, giving the Canadiens (4-1-1) record on the season.  Meanwhile, Ottawa despite of some upsets and a current 2 game win streak and playing well early this season, are turning the puck over a little bit to much  for my liking and are showing some negative characteristics . I also feel they don't have the talent to continue at this rate, and when looking at individual matchups the Habs actually have better over all talent and with their goalie  Price in good form  I like them in this spot. 

OTTAWA is 2-10 ATS  in home games after a blowout win by 3 goals or more over the last 3 seasons. They beat Dallas 4-1 last time out. 

Play on Montreal to win on the moneyline 

Philadelphia can score but their defence is horrendous, and Im betting that trend continues here this afternoon against the NJ Devils. Philadelphia (3-4) has allowed 11 goals in its last two games and the Devils are more than capable of burying some goals here today.  It must be noted that NEW JERSEY is 32-0 OVER  when both teams score 3 or more goals over the last 2 seasons and thats what Im projecting them do here this afternoon.PHILADELPHIA is 35-0 OVER when both teams score 3 or more goals over the last 2 seasons.Philadelphia has given up 31 goals in its first seven games.

PHILADELPHIA is 23-9 OVER vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons. with a combined average of 6.9 gpg.

Play on the OVER 

Coyotes are getting more competitive but despite of that are fade material here tonight according to my current power rankings vs a Chicago team that Im betting is better than advertised. The Blackhawks showed their speed and fortitude in a 7-6 loss to the explosive Leafs and have won 3 of their first 5 games and have the edge here on home ice again vs a Coyotes side that has lost 4 of their first 5 games and scored just 4 goals in total. 

Blackhawks are 66-22 in their last 88 vs. a team with a winning % below .400.Blackhawks are 73-32 in their last 105 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.

Coyotes are 43-106 in their last 149 vs. a team with a winning record.Coyotes are 43-106 in their last 149 vs. a team with a winning record.

ARIZONA is 0-9 ATS against terrible power play teams - scoring on 13% or less of their chances over the last 3 seasons.ARIZONA is 2-17 ATS in road games when playing against a marginal winning team (Win Pct. 51% to 60%) in the first half of the season since 1996. 

NHL Home teams against the money line (CHICAGO) - after 4 or more consecutive overs, average team (-0.4 to +0.4 goal/game diff.) vs a poor team (-0.4 goal/game diff. or less ) are 32-3 L/5 seasons for a 92% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on the Chicago Blackhawks to win on the moneyline 

The Islanders under new HC Barry Trotz now play a defence style style of hockey and I expect thats what we will see from them tonight here in their first game of a West Coast road trip. The Isles have averaged 2.8 gpg this season in offence, and have allowed 2.4 gpg on D, and have already recorded 1 shutout behind tonights expected starting goalie Lehner. 

 The Ducks a team with a boatload full of injures are averaging just 2.7 goals per game but allowing just 2.2 gpg. With leading scorer Jakob Silfverberg experiencing a nagging injury, and less than 100% the Ducks Im betting will continue their defensive mind set behind a top tier goalie Gibson who owns a  a 2.07 GAA and .944 save percentage this season.

Under is 3-0-1 in the last 4 meetings in Anaheim.

Play UNDER 

I know the Minnesota Wild have not played top tier hockey out of the gate this season, but they are a talented enough group to take out the Arizona Coyotes that lacks true snipers here at home tonight behind star goalie Devan Dubnyk. who has posted a top tier .934 save percentage,  along with a  2.64 goals-against average.  Yes he is only 1-1-2 on the season, but that is because of his teams inconsistencies on the attack. That's something  Im betting they correct tonight in Minnesota. Note: MINNESOTA is 15-1 ATS after 2 or more consecutive losses over the last 2 seasons.

Wild are 40-13 in their last 53 vs. a team with a winning % below .400.

 Home Teams when the money line is -100 to -150 (MINNESOTA) - after having lost 4 of their last 5 games, in a game involving two terrible teams (30% or less) in the first half of the season are 28-3 L/21 seasons for a 90% conversion rate for bettors on the blind. 

Play on the Minnesota Wild to win on the moneyline 

When your as talented as the TB Lightning it sometimes takes a little bit of motivation to reach your optimal performance levels. Thats what we have tonight , as the Bolts  off a 8-2 pounding of Columbus host a Carolina team playing above average out of the gate this season, from a W/L perspective (4-1-0-1). However their are some obvious discrepancies between their record and some key stats, as their special teams, rank 25th on the power play and 28th on the penalty kill and their at a disadvantage vs a side that has yet to allow a power play goal this season and went 4 for 7 on the PP in their last game. Also Carolina is now playing their 3rd game in 4 nights, which is never a good thing, and even worse when it comes to taking on this type of opponent. Note: 

Hurricanes are 2-12 in their last 14 in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation.Hurricanes are 7-20 in their last 27 vs. a team with a winning record.

With thats said, I expect the home side to come out here on fire and show their up trending opponents what its like to play against an established contender. Tampa Bay has won 7 straight at home in this series and notching another victory Im betting is a high probability occurrence again.

Tonights starting goalie for TB Andrei Vasilevskiy was 2-0-0 with a 2.50 goals-against average and .922 save percentage in his two starts vs the Canes last season.

Play on the TB Lightning to win on the moneyline 

The Rangers are in a complete rebuilding mode, and no longer a steady threat to opposing teams, even here at home in MSG as their 1-4 record would already indicate . They still have veteran star goalie Lindquist in the lineup , but he no longer regularly snatches victory from the jaws of defeat.  Meanwhile, the Avalanche 3-1-1  are a team on the rise, and must be respected here as short road chalk.

Last season, the Avalanche were 2-0-0 against the Rangers, outscoring them 7-3 and another victory Im betting is on tonights agenda in the Big Apple. 

Avs Starting Goalie Seymon Varmalov is 3-0-0-1 with a 1.75 GAA and .946 save percentage this season and last season turned in a 37-save performance in a 4-2 victory here in  Madison Square Garden.

Avalanche are 11-4 in the last 15 meetings in New York.Avalanche are 18-8 in the last 26 meetings.Road team is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings.

Play on the Colorado Rockies to win on the moneyline 

Two top tier goalies go head to head Monday night in Nashville, as Pekka Rinne and the Predators host Devan Dubnyk and the Minnesota Wild in a Central Division battle. 

The Wild Goalie Dubnyk owns. a 2.64 GAA and .934 save percentage this season. He recorded a a 1.96 GAA and .934 save percentage against the Predators last season.

The Preds starting goalie Rinne has registered a stingy 1.67 GAA and .946 save percentage this season and recorded 2.98 GAA and .903 save percentage against Minnesota last season.  

Considering the goalie matchup and we all ready have a strong case for a lower scoring game, but current circumstances suggest that Minnesota will play a conservative  transistional style of hockey tonight against a explosive opponent playing on their own home ice, thus making the under a viable betting opportunity. 

Under is 4-0 in Wild last 4 road games.Under is 6-1 in Wild last 7 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.Under is 4-1 in Wild last 5 vs. Western Conference

Under is 3-0-1 in the last 4 meetings in Nashville.

Play on the UNDER 

The Winnipeg Jets are off a hard fought 3-0 loss vs the Nashville Preds last time out. It was like a Hanson Brothers Hockey movie with the Jets taking 8 minor penalties and fighting galore. Old school hockey at its best. Now coming home Im betting they will be motivated to take out their frustrations in front of their home town fans here this evening vs a Carolina team playing some very good hockey at the moment as is evident by their 4-0-0-1 record.  Their 3 most recent victories have ben wide open affairs, but getting room to play free wheeling hockey will be difficult for the Canes against a very physical Jets team that takes pride in their top tier ability to play a tough defensive system. With this also being a back back situation for the Canes Im betting their at a disadvantage vs a Winnipeg team on two days rest. 

Hurricanes are 4-9 in their last 13 games playing on with no rest.

Jets are 6-0 in their last 6 games playing on 2 days rest.

WINNIPEG is 12-0 ATS in home games after 2 or more consecutive unders over the last 2 seasons and s 11-1 ATS in home games off a road loss over the last 2 seasons and also  is 18-3 ATS in home games after playing a road game over the last couple of seasons.

Jets are 14-3 in their last 17 vs. Eastern Conference.Jets are 44-13 in their last 57 home games.

NHL favorite against the money line (WINNIPEG) - after scoring 1 goal or less in their previous game against opponent after scoring 5 goals or more in 2 straight games are 28-4 L/5 seasons for a 88% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on the Winnipeg Jets to win on the moneyline 

The Leafs have an explosive team with John Tavares Auston Mathews and an array of other top tier offensive talent on their team, but their Achilles heel is their defence which looks below average at 4.00 GAA per game with top goalie Andersen with a  sub par ..892 SV% . At this point in the season the Leafs just try to overpower their opponents with an all out take no prisoners attack, but that won't come easily tonight as they are on tired legs and playing their 4th straight road  vs the defending Stanley Cup Champion Washington Capitals. 

Capitals are 6-0 in their last 6 vs. a team with a winning % above .600.Maple Leafs are 18-45 in their last 63 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.

Leafs are just 1-5 L/6 meetings.

NHL favorite against the money line (WASHINGTON) - after scoring 1 goal or less in their previous game against opponent after scoring 5 goals or more in 2 straight games are 27-3L/5 seasons for a  90% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on the Washington Capitals to win on the moneyline 

The Tampa Lightning looked lackadaisical last time out in a 4-1 loss to the Vancouver Canucks. I personally believe that they lulled themselves to sleep in a defensive mode that carried over from their opening 2-1 win vs instate rivals the Florida Panthers in game 1. I don't think the Bolts respected their opponents enough and were not as motivated as their opponent and they paid the price, and Im now sure their more awake and ready for what they perceive to be a much stronger team the Columbus Blue Jackets who are 3-1 on the season. It is also way to early to worry about the best offense in the NHL from last season/ QUOTE: TB Steven Stamkos  was quoted. as saying;

"We led the league in goals last year, so it's just a matter of time," he said. "That's the least of our worries is scoring. That is going to come. It's not cheating because it's not coming; it's playing the right way and continuing to improve. END QUOTE: 

COLUMBUS is 9-35 ATS  in road games after a game where both teams scored 4 goals or more since 1996.(Columbus beat Florida 5-4 last time out)

 NHL favorite against the money line (TAMPA BAY) - after scoring 1 goal or less in their previous game against opponent after scoring 5 goals or more in 2 straight games are 27-3 L/5 seasons for a 90% conversion rate for bettors on the blind. 

Play on Tampa Bay to win on the moneyline 

Vegas is finally starting to play like an expansion team, and are also experiencing a Stanley Cup finals hangover. Philadelphia handled the Knights in their first meetings this season back in Nevada by a 5-2 count as road dogs and matchup well against this group, and deserve their home favorite status here this evening. The Golden Knights have now lost three straight and are on tired legs and now playing the finale of a exhausting 5 game road trip are . With that said the visitors are at a disadvantage and fade material in this spot vs a Flyers (2-2-0) team coming of a 7-4 road win against the Ottawa Senators

NHL Home teams against the money line (PHILADELPHIA) - slow starting team-outscored by opp by 0.2+ goals/game in first period, after playing 2 straight games where 8 or more total goals were scored are 21-4 L/5 seasons for a 84% conversion rate for bettors on the blind.

Play on the Philadelphia Flyers to win on the moneyline 

Chicago's offense can light up a scoreboard  but its their  its defense has struggled. Goalie Cam Ward,  playing in place of  Corey Crawford  owns a hefty  a 4.62 goals-against average and .843 save percentage. Meanwhile, Minnesota has started a little slowly but they can light it up and have the advantage in goal with Devan Dubnyk. who has stopped 77 of 80 shots (.963 save percentage)  and 1.45 GAA. Home ice advantage the better D, and goalie get the nod here.

NHL favorite against the money line (MINNESOTA) - after scoring 1 goal or less in their previous game against opponent after scoring 5 goals or more in 2 straight games are 26-3 L/5 seasons for a 90% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on the Minnesota Wild to cover 

Canucks head coach Travis Green has been moving the lines around to try to find the right mix of offense -- which has not been a problem in the early going  as the Canucks are showing a lot of explosiveness--  however the D is a problem  allowing 14 goals in the opening three games. Meanwhile, TB is off a 2-1 defensive style win, and on 3 days rest will be ready to let loose here with a super fast and cohesive offensive lineup, and put a bunch of goals on the board vs a side that will have issues dealing with their attack. 

Over is 6-0 in Canucks last 6 vs. Eastern Conference.Over is 6-1 in Canucks last 7 overall.Over is 4-1 in Canucks last 5 vs. Atlantic.Over is 8-1-2 in Lightning last 11 Thursday games.Under is 4-1-2 in Lightning last 7 home games. Over is 15-6 in Lightning last 21 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.Over is 5-2 in Lightning last 7 vs. Pacific.Over is 17-5-3 in the last 25 meetings.Over is 8-3-2 in the last 13 meetings in Tampa Bay.

Play OVER 

The Leafs are an explosive offensive team and have put 7 goals on the board in their L/2 games, with their only issue remaining on defence  as is evident by having  allowed 5,6,4 goals in their L/3 tilts.  Meanwhile, the Wings are a young team in a rebuilding mode, and will have difficulties hanging with the Buds.  It won't matter who starts for the Leafs as Garret Sparks is 1-0-0 with a 6.00 GAA and .806 save percentage and Anderson owns just .892 SV %. and could easily allow the Motown crew a few goals. The way Toronto plays the Wings will have no choice to open up which will result in a higher scoring game than the line indicates.  Considering these above mentioned situations and facts and over bet here looks like a viable option. 

Over is 3-0-1 in Maple Leafs last 4 vs. a team with a losing record.Over is 4-0 in Maple Leafs last 4 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400.Over is 13-3-1 in Maple Leafs last 17 road games. Over is 21-8-2 in Maple Leafs last 31 overall.Over is 18-7-2 in Maple Leafs last 27 games playing on 1 days rest.Over is 17-7-2 in Maple Leafs last 26 vs. Eastern Conference.Over is 7-3-2 in Maple Leafs last 12 vs. Atlantic.Over is 15-7-1 in Maple Leafs last 23 games following a win.

Over is 4-0 in Red Wings last 4 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.Over is 7-1-1 in Red Wings last 9 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.Over is 5-1 in Red Wings last 6 vs. Atlantic.Over is 4-1 in Red Wings last 5 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game.Over is 7-2 in Red Wings last 9 vs. Eastern Conference.

Play OVER 

GOALTENDERS: ARIZONA - ANTTI RAANTA, ANAHEIM - JOHN GIBSON

The Ducks enter this game banged up with a boatload full of injuries something that is not uncommon for this team over the last few seasons. Meanwhile, visiting Arizona can't find the back of the net and have been shutout in their first two games of the season.  The difference maker comes via the Ducks ability to find ways to win as is evident by their 3-0 record ,  while Arizona  at 0-2 despite of their upgrades still have a culture of losing  hanging over the team,  and until they can stop the bleeding with some consistency ,especially on offence, Ill go with the side that has a track record of winning even when they look incapable of doing so because of their injury list. 

Note: Arizona was the second lowest scoring team in the NHL last season at 2.51 goals per game.

ARIZONA is 42-115 ATS when playing against a team with a winning record since 1996.

ARIZONA is 1-13 ATS  in road games after playing a game where 3 or fewer total goals were scored over the last 3 seasons. Arizona 1.8 Opponent 3.3. 

Ducks are 20-7 in their last 27 home games.Ducks are 7-1 in their last 8 games following a win. 

Ducks are 6-1 in their last 7 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game. 

Ducks are 5-1 in their last 6 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game. 

These clubs played Saturday in Phoenix and the Ducks won by a 1-0 count  as John Gibson stopped 41 shots. Im expecting a better effort from the Ducks here on home ice in the rematch and for  Anaheim to make is 6 wins in a row here on their home ice vs the Coyotes.

Play on Anaheim to win on the moneyline 

The Toronto Maple Leafs are loaded with offensive talent but their defence still looks wobbly.  There is not doubt that this team has the potential to lead the lead in scoring this year. To beat the Leafs you have to score in bunches. So the Dallas Stars whether they want to or not will have to open up or be blown off the ice. With that said, Im betting on a fairly high scoring affair that eclipses the total. 

Over is 8-0-1 in Maple Leafs last 9 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.Over is 10-1 in Maple Leafs last 11 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.Over is 6-1 in Maple Leafs last 7 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game.Under is 6-1 in Maple Leafs last 7 in the third game of a 3-in-4 days situation.Over is 5-1 in Maple Leafs last 6 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game.Over is 12-3-1 in Maple Leafs last 16 road games. Over is 16-5-1 in Maple Leafs last 22 games playing on 1 days rest.Over is 16-5-1 in Maple Leafs last 22 vs. a team with a winning record.Over is 20-8-2 in Maple Leafs last 30 overall.

Over is 3-1-1 in Stars last 5 overall.Over is 9-3-2 in Stars last 14 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.Over is 19-7-2 in Stars last 28 games following a win.Over is 32-15-4 in Stars last 51 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game.

Play OVER 

The Sharks were shutout yesterday by the NY Islanders by a 4-0 count, as the bumped into a hot goalie and are now hungry for redemption here tonight vs a Philadelphia side, that will be in a difficult situation without star off season free agent acquisition Van Riemsdyk expected to miss this game  with an injury. It is still early in the season, so Im betting the Sharks will not feel any fatigue despite of this being a back to back situation. Meanwhile, the Flyers are well rested entering this tilt with 2 days off, but in the recent past this has not been a recipe for success, as the Flyers are 3-11 ATS when playing with 2 days rest over the last 2 seasons including 5 straight losses on the moneyline . The Sharks have won 9 of their L/10 meetings here in the City of Brotherly Love  and Im betting on another win tonight. 

Sharks are 11-4 in their last 15 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game.Sharks are 10-4 in their last 14 games following a loss of 3 or more goals.

Play on the San Jose Sharks to win on the moneyline 

Everyone keeps on waiting on the Vegas Knights to start acting like a expansion team and go through some growing pains. After losing their opener , that thought crossed my mind, but after bouncing back form their 5-2 opening loss to Philadelphia and than going into Minnesota and taking a 2-1 OT win , they still look hungry and capable of making another run at play off appearance this season, behind some newly acquired seasoned veterans like Max Pacioretty and Paul Statsny. The Golden Knights won both meetings in this series last season, and Im betting they will keep their winning ways alive here this afternoon in Buffalo. 

BUFFALO is 3-19 ATS after playing a game where 4 or fewer total goals were scored over the last 2 seasons which was the case last time out.VEGAS is 10-3 ATS after winning their previous game in overtime over the last 2 seasons.VEGAS is 21-8 ATS after a close win by 1 goal in their previous game over the last 2 seasons.

Sabres are 16-36 in their last 52 home games.Sabres are 27-63 in their last 90 overall.Sabres are 3-7 in their last 10 Monday games.Sabres are 15-36 in their last 51 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.Sabres are 11-27 in their last 38 vs. Western Conference.Sabres are 17-44 in their last 61 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game.Sabres are 14-38 in their last 52 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game.Sabres are 7-19 in their last 26 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.Sabres are 13-38 in their last 51 games following a win.Sabres are 4-13 in their last 17 games playing on 1 days rest.Sabres are 0-5 in their last 5 vs. Pacific.

Play on Vegas to win on the moneyline 

The Senators after a tumultuous off season that saw their super star defence man traded, Erik Karlsson , have surprisingly started their season on a winning note. But Im betting this surge will come to an abrupt end today as Im backing the Bruins inconsistent goal keeper Rask to come up big here, after a slow start to his season that saw him allow 5 goals before being pulled in a 7-0 opening night loss to the Washington Capitals . Look for redemption minded Rask to be at his best this afternoon in the Bruins home opener. He has owned the Sens of late going 3-0-0-0 against last season and owns a 2.17 GAA and .925 save percentage lifetime against them. The Bruins won all 4 games vs Ottawa last season with the two home wins coming by 5-2 and 5-1 counts and another similar outcome is not out of the question, and viable wagering option on a -1.5 puckline.

Bruins are 22-8 in their last 30 home games.

Play on the Boston Bruins to in on the puckline -1.5

The Isles wont be as bad as the pundits think now that  pyjama boy John Tavares left town for the Leafs of Toronto. But running on adrenalin and a need to prove the experts wrong Im betting won't be enough to get them past the explosive Nashville Predators tonight. I know the Isles won their first game of the season vs the Canes but they still allowed 40 plus shots and if it were not for their goalie Griese would have lost . Note: HC Barry Trotz is tinkering  with the Isles offencive line combinations, and until  they get sorted  will have trouble scoring against teams like this. 

Predators are 6-1 in their last 7 vs. Metropolitan.Predators are 4-1 in their last 5 vs. Eastern Conference.Predators are 12-4 in their last 16 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.Predators are 19-7 in their last 26 road games.

Islanders are 3-8 in their last 11 home games.Islanders are 7-19 in their last 26 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.Islanders are 4-11 in their last 15 games playing on 1 days rest.Islanders are 3-9 in their last 12 games following a win.Islanders are 1-4 in their last 5 Saturday games.Islanders are 1-5 in their last 6 vs. Central.Islanders are 1-6 in their last 7 vs. Western Conference.

Play on the Nashville Preds to win on the moneyline 

The Jets won their first game of the season against the St.Louis Blues in convincing fashion 5-1, and are a team loaded and ready to make a run to the Stanley Cup Finals this season. Dallas continues to rebuild but still is not in the same league as Winnipeg and have had horrid luck vs the Jets in the recent past losing 8 straight meetings. Jets grab the cheese again.

Stars are 3-12 in their last 15 games playing on 1 days rest.Stars are 1-8 in their last 9 games following a win.Jets are 4-0 in their last 4 Saturday games.Jets are 11-3 in their last 14 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Jets are 12-4 in their last 16 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game.Jets are 6-2 in their last 8 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game.Jets are 13-5 in their last 18 vs. Central.

Play on the Winnipeg Jets to win on the moneyline 

Florida weakness is defence and what was perplexing is that they did not make any major changes on defence in the off season. This group gave up the third-most shots on goal per game (34.6) and finished tied for 18th in goals-against. Not a good omen vs an explosive and very fast TB side that thrives in the attacking zone. Meanwhile,  the Bolts behind Kucherov (39 goals, 100 points), Stamkos (27, 86), Brayden Point (32, 66) and Hedman (17, 63) all contributed to a Tampa Bay team that scored 3.54 per game, should prove to much for the Panthers to handle here tonight. Lightning are 37-16 in their last 53 home games.Lightning are 37-17 in their last 54 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game.Panthers are 0-4 in the last 4 meetings in Tampa Bay.Home team is 7-1 in the last 8 meetings.

Play on TB Lightning to win on the moneyline 

These teams have a history of playing very hard fought physical gruelling  low scoring defensive play off  style affairs, even during the regular season. Yes,  these teams have plenty of offensive firepower but Im still expecting a lower scoring tilt. San Jose started their season allowing 5 goals in just 14 shots and in a loss to Anaheim, and Im betting their goaltending and D, will be even more diligent here, as they look for redemption. This will also be the Kings first game of their year so getting into cohesive high gear might take some time even with former 50 goal scorer Illya Kovolchuk in the lineup. These teams have only gone over 1 time in their L/13 meetings and another low scoring tilt is on tonights agenda.

SJ goalies Jones was 3-1-0 with a 1.69 GAA and .950 SVP including a shutout.  Jones  in 14 career games vs LA owns a 2.06 GAA and .931 save percentage. 

The Kings' Jonathan Quick was 1-2-0 with a 1.70 GAA and .944 save percentage against the Sharks last season. In 31 career games vs the Sharks he has garnered  a 2.52 GAA and .910 save percentage.

Play on the UNDER 

The Blues are going with a youth movement as prospects Robert Thomas, Jordan Kyrou and Sammy Blais all made the roster. Blais is the old man of the group at age 22. Thomas, regarded as one of the Blues' top prospects, is 19 and Kyrou is 20 and their will be growing pains for this team , especially against sides like Winnipeg that are built to win now. 

 .Blues are 1-4 in their last 5 vs. Western Conference.Blues are 2-9 in their last 11 vs. Central.Blues are 1-5 in their last 6 overall dating back to last season.Jets are 12-5 in their last 17 vs. Central.

Play on the Winnipeg Jets to win on the moneyline 

The Preds are a behemoth team ready to make a run for the Stanley Cup. The Rangers in a rebuilding mode are in trouble here tonight, at MSG. I know Nashville has lost 4 straight here, but that is just an anomaly and the get the nod in this spot.

Predators are 5-1 in their last 6 vs. Metropolitan.
Predators are 4-1 in their last 5 road games.Rangers are 1-10 in their last 11 vs. Central.
 Rangers are 0-6 in their last 6 Thursday games.

Play on the Nashville Preds

Boston got clobbered last night by the defending Stanley Cup Champs by a 7-0 count and will now primed to bounce back off that embarrassing loss. Look for Patrice Bergeron and the Bruins roll behind what is arguably the best two-way first line group in the NHL with Brad Marchand and David Pastrnak on the wings. Buffalo might be improved but tonight they will be on the wrong side of this score.

Sabres are 16-37 in their last 53 home games.Bruins are 7-1 in the last 8 meetings in Buffalo.

Play on the Boston Bruins to win on the moneyline

The San Jose Sharks start their season vs a Ducks team they matchup very well against. Anaheim and San Jose played  went head to head in the  2018 playoffs,  with the Sharks dominating from start to finish   and a 4-0 sweep. I know the Ducks want revenge, but that won't come easily vs a supped up lineup featuring all star defensemen Erik Karlasson. The Ducks are 0-6 in the last 6 meetings and  just 4-12 in its past 16 visits to San Jose.

SJ Goalie Martin Jones was 2-0-1 with a 1.55 goals-against average and .940 save percentage vs the Ducks.Three Anaheim goalies, went  0-1-1 with a 3.59 GAA and .885 SV. vs the Sharks last season and  Gibson who saw the most time during the regular season  and was then 0-4 in the playoffs with a 3.60 GAA and .889 SV.

Stanley Cup Finals - Best of 7 - Game 4 - WAS leads 2-1

GOALTENDING MATCHUP: VEGAS - MARC-ANDRE FLEURY, WASHINGTON - BRADEN HOLTBY

The last two games in this NHL Stanley Cup play off series have been closely contested physically grueling defensive minded games, with strong goaltending at the center of the play, and transitional hockey being the catalyst behind the offensive action. I'm betting on nothing changing today and fact it could be extremely physical and conservative as both teams know that one mistake could be a pivotal point for both teams Stanley Cup aspirations .

VEGAS is 10-2 UNDER in road games after 2 or more consecutive unders this season with the average combined score clicking in at 4.2 gpg.

VEGAS is 10-3 UNDERL/13 in road games against explosive offensive teams - scoring 3+ goals/game with a combined average of 4.6 gpg scored. WASHINGTON is 11-2 UNDER L/13 in home games against excellent starting goalies - (saving 93% or more of shots against) with a combined average of 3.8 gpg going on the score board.

Under is 5-0-1 in Golden Knights' last 6 road games.

NHL team against the total (WASHINGTON/VEGAS ) - in the Stanley Cup finals, in the 4th game of a playoff series are 26-6 UNDER L/21 seasons for a 81% conversion rate for bettors.

Play UNDER

Stanley Cup Finals - Best of 7 - Game 2 - VGS Leads 1-0

There was a lot exuberance being displayed by the Vegas Knights as they made it to the Stanley Cup play offs as an expansion team at 500-1 early season odds. Truly an amazing achievement. You could see the excitement on the players faces, and the anticipation of hoisting  the cup over their heads. The Knights played with a great deal of energy, and now I'm betting a emotional letdown scenario to be at hand here today, in game 2, because of the amount of energy they  exerted in game 1 victory (6-4). Meanwhile, the Caps a veteran group, will I'm betting regroup and push the Knights  both with physical  and aggressive two way action, and eventually notch the win this evening and take advantage of the irrational exuberance being displayed by the Knights  . This is an atmosphere where Caps super star Alex Ovechkin will shine.  Note: WASHINGTON is 8-3 ATS in road games as a # 1 seed in the playoffs this season

Capitals are 13-3 in their last 16 road games.Capitals are 12-3 in their last 15 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.

WASHINGTON is 18-10 ATS L/18 in road games against good offensive teams - 29 or more shots on goal, convert 17% pp or more.WASHINGTON is 9-2 ATS  in road games revenging a loss vs opponent of 2 goals or more this season and is 17-6 ATS  revenging a road loss versus opponent this season.

Play on the Washington Capitals to win on the moneyline

Eastern Conference Finals - Best of 7 - Game 7 - Series tied at 3-3

The Bolts are lucky to still be in this series. Why this series is tied 3-3 and game 7 now being played is because  the Caps have lapsed in some key spots, but have been the overall superior team in this series, as is evident by the Capitals winning the Corsi For percentage  battle during 5 on 5 in all six games . What I'm betting here is that the Capitals do not lose concentration and finish off this series as deserved winners.

Capitals are 14-3 in their last 17 road games.Capitals are 11-2 in their last 13 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.Capitals are 21-9 in their last 30 vs. Eastern Conference.Road team is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings.

Play Washington Capitals to win on the moneyline

Eastern Conference Finals - Best of 7 - Game 5 - Series tied at 2-2

The road team has won all 4 games in this series, and I'm betting on the visitor cashing again in this spot. In game 4 the Caps looked to be in control, but somehow lost focus and succumbed to the Bolts. I really believe that very little separates these teams, except for the caps superior grit, and tonight, their physicality will be the difference maker.  Note: Evgeny Kuznetsov and Alex Ovechkin both have 10 goals to pace the Capitals, who now have the confidence that comes with playing on the road. Overall in the playoffs, road teams are 40-34, on pace to challenge the NHL record for most postseason wins by a road team -- 47 in 2012.

WASHINGTON is 9-4 ATS    in road games against good starting goalies - (saving  91.5% or better of shots against) in the 2nd half of the season this season.WASHINGTON is 5-0 ATS   in road games in the conference finals since 1996.WASHINGTON is 9-1 ATS    in road games revenging a loss vs opponent of 2 goals or more this season. WASHINGTON is 5-0 ATS  after 2 straight losses by 2 goals or more this season.

Play on the Washington Capitals to win on the moneyline

Western Conference Finals - Best of 7 - Game 4 - VGS Leads 2-1

During these play offs the Vegas Knights have rarely been taken out of their comfort zone as evident by storming back from 1 game down to take a 2-1 lead in this series.. Their aggressive and methodical robot like demeanour and defensive prowess are to be respected. Look for nothing to change tonight.

 Knowing the importance of this pivotal tilt, I'm betting we will see both teams take part in  a very physical , and conservative game plan that bases scoring chances on transitional hockey. This will limit goal scoring and will help keep this combined score on the low side of the  total.

VEGAS is 14-5 UNDER  against good starting goalies - (saving 91.5% or more of their shots against) in the 2nd half of the season this season with a combined average of 4.5 gpg scored.VEGAS is 14-5 UNDER  against good teams - outscoring their opponents by 0.3+ goals/game - 2nd half of the season this season with a combined average of 4.5 gpg scored.

WINNIPEG is 8-1 UNDER    in road games revenging 2 consecutive losses to opponent as a favorite this season with a combined average of 3.7 gpg scored.

Play UNDER

Eastern Conference Finals - Best of 7 - Game 2 - WAS Leads 1-0

The Capitals came at the Lightning in game 1, and took them out of their flow with aggressive fore-checking for a 4-2 win . I'm betting the Bolts will be more prepared to play in transition tonight, and for this to be a fast paced offensive style game with a take no prisoners mentality attached to it.

TAMPA BAY is 10-2 OVER    in home games revenging a loss vs opponent as a home favorite over the last 3 seasons with a combined average of 7 gpg scored.

NHL team against the total (TAMPA BAY/WASH) - in the conference finals, in the 2nd game of a playoff series are 55-22 OVER L/21 seasons for a 70% conversion rate for bettors.

Play OVER

The Vegas Knights are  the most successful first-year franchise in the history of professional sports with  the key to their success being  an ability to play a hard core structured defensive system that scores a lot in transition.  Its pretty obvious to anyone that watches them in action, that you cant intimidate them, and or take out of their system. Winnipeg was able to take Nashville out of their comfort zone, and won their last series, but I'm betting a more difficult task awaits the Jets here. Vegas is also fresh after being off for a week, after quickly disposing of San Jose .Meanwhile,  Winnipeg might be a little let down, after their grueling 7 game series vs Nashville and will be out to make sure mistakes are not made here in game 1 that will put them immediately behind the eight ball. With that said, I'm expecting these two big punchers to take part in  a respectful hard hitting conservative affair that stays on the low side of the Total.

VEGAS is 13-4 UNDER  against good starting goalies - (saving 91.5% or more of shots against) in the 2nd half of the season this season. WINNIPEG is 7-1 UNDER    in home games after having won 15 or more of their last 20 games this season.

NHL team against the total (WINNIPEG) - off a win by 3 goals or more over a division rival against opponent off a road win where they shut out their opponent are 46-22 UNDER L/5 seasons for a 67% conversion rate for bettors.

Play UNDER

Eastern Conference Finals - Best of 7 - Game 1

These two explosive offenses are well rested and ready to run and gun tonight in the opening game of their best of 7 eastern conference finals series. With that said, I expect this total to be eclipsed.

WASHINGTON is 9-1 OVER   when playing with 3 or more days rest this season with a combined average of 6.5 gpg scored. WASHINGTON is 7-0 OVER L/7 in road games after allowing 1 goal or less in their previous game this season with an average of 7.3 gpg scored. ( The caps wrapped up their last series vs the Pens with a 2-1 road win)Over is 21-7-1 in Capitals last 29 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game.

TAMPA BAY is 42-24 OVER  against good offensive teams - 29 or more shots on goal, convert 17% or better of their pp this season with a combined average of 6.6 gpg scored. Anomaly or not its still interesting to note that TAMPA BAY is 10-2 OVER    in home games on Friday nights over the last 3 seasons, with a combined average of 7.9 gpg scored.

Over is 21-8-1 in Lightning last 30 vs. Metropolitan.

Over is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings in Tampa Bay.

Play OVER

The Capitals are  a mature team that has obviously learned a lot from past play off experiences. Their tough as nails, and some are calling them down right dirty, but what they are playing is gritty take no prisoners hockey, and that makes them dangerous here at home tonight in DC. The defending Stanley cup champion Pens look wobbly, despite of tying this series,  with a 3-1 win Thursday night, and a upset alert sign should be hung on this series .

Penguins are 2-6 in their last 8 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game.Capitals are 92-39 in their last 131 home games.Capitals are 37-16 in their last 53 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Tied 2-games-all in a best-of-7 NHL playoff series, the Washington Capitals have an active four-Game 5 winning streak.

Play on the Washington Capitals to win on the moneyline

GOALTENDERS: WASHINGTON - BRADEN HOLTBY, COLUMBUS - SERGEI BOBROVSKY

The Capitals have won 3 straight games in this series after losing the first 2 games of this series , but I'm betting the Blue Jackets don't bow out of these play offs without one last grasp of air. Look for and expect a game 7. Note these game historically in no way guarantee the team with momentum wins this game. Considering win order; ignoring site order: The team leading LLWWW irrespective of site order (Washington) has the following best-of-7 playoff series: the Washington Capitals have a Game 6 record of 7-8.

WASHINGTON is 9-18 ATS  when attempting to close out a playoff series since 1996.

NHL Home teams against the money line (COLUMBUS) - after allowing 4 goals or more in a loss to a division rival against opponent after a home game where both teams score 3 or more goals are 32-9 L/22 seasons for a 78% conversion rate for bettors. 

NHL Road Favorites of -200 or less against the money line (WASHINGTON) - off 3 consecutive wins against division rivals, with a winning record in the second half of the season are 12-30 L/22 seasons for a 72% go against conversion rate for bettors.

Play on the Columbus Blue Jackets to win on the moneyline 

 Western Conference Quarterfinals - Best of 7 - Game 2 - NAS Leads 1-0

GOALTENDERS: COLORADO - JONATHAN BERNIER, NASHVILLE - PEKKA RINNE


The type of physical hockey these teams are playing right now is going to wear both teams down, and with that said, I;m betting we see a lower scoring tilt today, than we did in game 1 when the final score was 5-2 for Nashville.

Under is 6-0-1 in Avalanche last 7 following a loss of 3 or more goals.Under is 4-1-2 in Avalanche last 7 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game. Under is 7-1-1 in Predators last 9 when their opponent scores 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Play UNDER

Western Conference Quarterfinals - Best of 7 - Game 2 - NAS Leads 1-0

In game one of this series Colorado showed me  that they are every bit Nashville's equal for about 2 1/2 periods Thursday night, before falling apart late for a 5-2 loss.The Avalanche's physical play , speed  and fore checking make them a viable back to side  on a value puck line. QUOTE: "It shows us we're right there with them," Avalanche coach Jared Bednar said. "I think the first two periods we outplayed them for big parts of it. We've got a big one here on Saturday. We're going to try to steal that one and get them back to the Pepsi Center where we're really good." END QUOTE:

COLORADO is 11-4 ATS  revenging a loss where opponent scored 5 or more goals this season and is 12-7 ATS  revenging a blowout loss vs opponent of 3 goals or more this season.NASHVILLE is 1-5 ATS   in home games after 2 straight wins by 2 goals or more this season.

Play on Colorado on the puckline +1.5

Eastern Conference Quarterfinals - Best of 7 - Game 2 - TAM Leads 1-0

NJ lost the first game of this series, by a 5-2 count, but it would be a mistake for anyone to read to deeply into that final score and try to associate the level of competitiveness between these two teams. NJ is every bit as fast as the Bolts, and look far from being out of place in this series.  Previous to that loss the Devils has won 3 straight meetings in this series, and I'm betting they wont be easy outs here today. 

Devils are 9-2 in their last 11 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game. Devils are 6-2 in their last 8 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.Devils are 13-6 in their last 19 games following a loss of 3 or more goals.

NEW JERSEY is 6-2 ATS    in road games against good teams - outscoring their opponents by 0.3+ goals/game.NEW JERSEY is 11-4 ATS L/15  in road games as a # 4 seed in the playoffs since 1996.

Play on the NJ Devils on the puckline +1.5

Western Conference Quarterfinals - Best of 7 - Game 1

The Vegas Knights had a great inaugural season, but the reg season and post season are two different animals. This is the Knights   first-ever playoff experience, and going against a  former  Stanley Cup championship team, full of veterans with multiple Stanley Cup rings, is asking this group for a monumental achievement in my humble opinion. The Knights might grab a game or two in this series, but I'm betting the Kings come out here and set the tone behind a big heavy group that allowed the fewest goals league-wide, have the season’s best penalty kill numbers, and averaged the eighth-fewest shots-against per game.

LOS ANGELES is 16-11 ATS    in road games against good offensive teams - scoring 2.85+ goals/game this season.

Play on the LA Kings to win on the moneyline

The Penguins and Blue Jackets enter this tilt  tied for second place in the Metropolitan Division with two games left.  Tonight's winner  will have the edge  on securing home ice for the first-round playoff series. With that said, you can bet both will be motivated to play tonight. But from a matchup perspective the defending Stanley Cup champs have the edge and experience needed to win big games and they get my support here tonight. The Pens are also well rested, and have proven they matchup well against the Jackets in the recent past as their head to head W/L results would indicate.

PITTSBURGH is off a loss last time out, but have proven resilient in the past going  14-2 ATS after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game this season.

Penguins are 22-8 in their last 30 games playing on 3 or more days rest.

Penguins are 4-0 in the last 4 meetings and have won  8 of the L/9 overall.

NHL Home teams against the money line (COLUMBUS) - revenging a home blowout loss vs opponent of 3 goals or more, off an home win scoring 4 or more goals are 10-29 L/5 seasons for a go against 75% conversion rate for bettors.( Pens crushed the Jackets 5-2 last time they visited Columbus)

Play on the Pittsburgh Penguins to win on the money-line

The Vegas Golden Knights (48-22-7), have had an amazing inaugural season in the NHL, but maybe starting to feel the pressure of their upcoming post season appearance which was evident when they lost at home to the lowly Coyotes on Wednesday night,  and are now just 3-3-2 during  their last eight games and 7-6-3 in their last 16 games including home losses to  struggling opponents Ottawa and the Arizona. It's one thing playing with no pressure , and completely different situation when your now expected to win.  With that said, I'm betting the red hot and big game tested Blues now on a 6 game win streak, will come into the desert ready to knock down their fledgling rivals a few notches and keep their momentum alive heading towards post season play. Note: Blues Goalie Jake Allen is 8-1-0 in his last nine starts .

ST LOUIS is 20-7 ATS in March games dating back to  last season. Golden Knights are 1-4 in their last 5 vs. a team with a winning record.

NHL Home Favorites against the money line (VEGAS) - revenging a road loss versus opponent, a good team (60% to 70%) playing a marginal winning team (51% to 60%) in the 2nd half of the season are just 25-40 L/5 seasons for a go against conversion rate of 62% for bettors.( St.Louis beat Vegas 2-1 at home, on Jan 4th this season.

Play on the St.Louis Blues to win on the money-line

The Pens always seem to do just enough to get the play offs before finally shifting into high gear. With the post season right around the corner, I'm betting they will begin to ramp this up, and we should see them at or near the top of their game during the last week of the season, and more importantly tonight. I know the Pens looked bad in their last outing, a 5-2 loss to Detroit, but this will make them even more hungry to get back into a winning mind set.  PITTSBURGH is 11-1 ATS   off a road blowout loss by 3 goals or more this season and  is 23-7 ATS  L/30  after allowing 5 goals or more in game.

The Devils have squeezed by the Pens in all three meetings this season, the last two by goal counts,  but I'm betting the defending Stanley Cup Champs get their revenge here in a last laugh situation.

NEW JERSEY is 4-16 ATS   in home games when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season dating back to last season.

Penguins are 62-28 in their last 90 vs. Metropolitan.

NHL Road Teams when the money line is -100 to -150 (PITTSBURGH) - revenging 2 straight close losses vs opponent by 1 goal or less, winning between 51% and 60% of their games on the season in the second half of the season are 23-3 L/5 seasons for a 89% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on the Pittsburgh Penguins to win on the moneyline

As the play offs approach teams headed for post season like Minnesota and Boston are being more conservative and defensive minded . Today  that's the type of hockey I expect to be witnessed which will see the combined score remain on the low side of the number. 

Add to that both teams are on tired legs as Boston prepares to play their 3rd road game in 5 days, and Minnesota off a grueling game against a very physical Nashville team last time out and you have a recipe for very little offensive production.

Under is 4-0 in Bruins last 4 road games.Under is 6-1 in Bruins last 7 vs. Central.Under is 3-1-1 in Bruins last 5 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.Under is 8-2 in Wild last 10 games playing on 0 days rest.

BOSTON is 7-1 UNDER  L/8  in road games after playing 2 consecutive road games this season.MINNESOTA is 10-3 UNDER when playing on back-to-back days this season. BOSTON is 15-5 UNDER  when playing against a marginal winning team (Win Pct. 51% to 60%) this season.

NHL Home teams where the total is 5.5 (MINNESOTA) - off a home win, playing on back-to-back days are 101-45 UNDER L/21 seasons for a 69% conversion rate for bettors on the blind.

Play UNDER

Both the  visiting Chicago Blackhawks who are on a 5 game losing streak and their hosts the NY Islanders have had disappointing seasons and will miss the play offs. Both are struggling but the Isles behind an explosive young offense, look to have a little more zip, and with coach Doug Weight on the hot seat, I'm betting winning is still on their agenda.  I know the Hawks have revenge on board for a 7-3 home loss to the Isles, but after watching parts of that tilt, it became obvious that this version of the Isles matches up very well against Chicago .  Note: NHL Road teams against the money line (CHICAGO) - revenging a blowout loss vs opponent of 4 goals or more, off 2 consecutive home losses by 2 goals or more are just 3-31 SU L/21 seasons for a go against 91% conversion rate for bettors.

Blackhawks are 1-11 in their last 12 road games.Blackhawks are 1-10 in their last 11 vs. a team with a losing record.Islanders are 35-16 in their last 51 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.

CHICAGO is 1-8 ATS  L/9 when playing against a marginal losing team (Win Pct. 40% to 49%) and 2-11 ATS   when playing against a team with a losing record .CHICAGO is 7-22 ATS  against good offensive teams - 29 shots or more on goal, convert 17% pp or better. NY ISLANDERS are 12-3 ATS  on Saturday games this season.

Play on the NY Islanders to win on the moneyline

 Detroit is struggling mightily and have not won in regulation in almost a month, and I'm betting things don't change tonight vs the visiting Washington Capitals team pursing the Metropolitan division title, and that will not be overlooking them . QUOTE:  “At this time of year, it doesn’t really matter where teams are in the standings,” Trotz said. "I think you don’t look at any opponent right now any differently if you can.”  END QUOTE.

Capitals are 67-23 in their last 90 vs. Atlantic.Capitals are 5-1 in their last 6 overall.Red Wings are 4-10 in their last 14 home games.

NHL Home underdogs of +100 to +150 against the money line (DETROIT) - struggling team - outscored by their opponents by 0.5+ goals/game - 2nd half of the season, after a close win by 1 goal in their previous game are 4-28 L/5 seasons for a go against conversion rate of 88% for bettors.

Play on the Washington Capitals to win on the moneyl-ine

The LA Kings just don't look like top tier contenders this season and are currently struggling which was evident in their last trip to the ice a 3-0 loss at home to the NJ Devils. Note: LOS ANGELES is 11-23 ATS after playing a game where 3 or fewer total goals were scored.

Playing here in Minnesota is never an easy proposition, for any team in this league as they have won 24 of 36 games SU and tonight I'm betting the visitors once again end up on the wrong side of the final score.

The Kings did beat the Wild earlier this season by a 5-2 count, so now I'm betting Minnesota will be primed for pay back and fully awake here this evening. MINNESOTA is 18-6 ATS L/24 revenging a road loss versus opponent by 2 goals or more.

Wild are 6-0 in their last 6 home games vs. a team with a winning road record. The Wild are a perfect 5-0 SU L/5 at home in this series.Wild are 10-4 in their last 14 overall.

Play on the Minnesota Wild to win on the moneyline

I'm betting on this tilt between these teams to eclipse the total. The Bruins and the Blue Jackets  in their games this season, saw the Beantown crew win a   4-3 shootout decision on Oct. 30 in Columbus and  then come back by hammering the Jackets 7-2 on Dec. 18 in Boston. I'm betting on more offensive fireworks here tonight as a revenge minded Columbus group on  a7 game win streak will look to mercilessly attack their foes and make them pay for that last above mentioned loss they suffered.  I know the Bruins are a bit banged up, but they have done well vs Columbus offensively in the recent past as  Jackets G Bobrovsky has struggled against Boston, going just 2-5-2 with 3.70/.895, and backup Joonas Korpisalo is 1-0-2 with 2.59/.915 GAA/SVP%.

COLUMBUS is 7-1 OVER  L/8 against good possession teams-averaging 3+ more shots on goal than opp in the 2nd half of the year over the last few seasons. Over is 4-0 in Blue Jackets last 4 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. Over is 6-1 in Bruins last 7 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game ( the Bruins SO TB last time out in a 3-0 win)Over is 10-2-1 in Bruins last 13 vs. Metropolitan. Over is 6-0 L/6 meetings.

NHL Road teams where the total is 5.5 (COLUMBUS) - revenging a loss where opponent scored 5 or more goals, off a close home win by 1 goal  are 29-6 OVER L/5 seasons for a 83% conversion rate for bettors with a combined average of 7.2 gpg scored.

Play OVER

The Stars  are currently in a funk and have lost four consecutive games (0-2-2), including 3-2 in overtime to the Ottawa Senators on Friday and are fade material vs a Winnipeg team that is getting healthy again and very dangerous when at full strength, Besides being on its longest losing streak of the season, the Stars also are 5-7-4 in their last 16 games since winning five in a row from Feb. 1-9.
Stars are 0-5 in their last 5 road games.

Stars are also on tired legs and are just  1-5 in their last 6 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 situation.

WINNIPEG is 17-4 ATS L/21 in home games against excellent power play teams like Dallas- scoring on 17.5% or more  of their chances this season. DALLAS is 3-15 ATS L/18 in road games against excellent power play teams - scoring on > 19% of their chances in the 2nd half of the year dating back to last season.  Jets are 21-6 in their last 27 home games.

Dallas has lost 7 straight meetings in this series.DALLAS is 0-8 ATS L/8 in road games revenging a loss where opponent scored 5 or more goals dating back to last season.

Play on Winnipeg to win on the moneyline

The Capitals enter this tilt at Shark Tank on a ugly seven-game losing streak that has seen them  outscored by a  29-12 count. Considering the Sharks are  11-0-2 in their last 13 home meetings versus the Capitals going back to 1998, it will be n easy decision to fade a faltering side.

Note:  Capitals G Brian Holtby has surrendered 31 goals over his last eight starts, going 1-5-2.

Washington is 4-11 ATS  L/15 against excellent power play teams- scoring on 17.5% or better of their chances .Capitals are 0-4 in their last 4 road games.Capitals are 1-5 in their last 6 vs. Western Conference.Capitals are 1-5 in their last 6 vs. Pacific.Sharks are 5-1 in their last 6 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.

NHL Road teams against the money line (WASHINGTON) - off 2 consecutive road losses by 2 goals or more, with a winning record on the season playing another winning team are 18-62 SU L/21 seasons for a go against conversion rate of 78% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on San Jose Sharks to win on the moneyline

The Panthers  play host to the Philadelphia Flyers (34-20-11) at the BB&T Center this afternoon, as one  of the hottest teams in the entire NHL, as is evident by winning 5 straight and  12 of their last 15 games. With their opponents the Flyers,   playing on short rest, having lost to the Tampa Bay Lightning 7-6 in a shootout Saturday afternoon, the Panthers have the advantage again and look to be viable bets this afternoon on the moneyline. Note: Philly is also without injured  high-scoring right winger Wayne Simmonds (20 goals, 17 assists).

FLORIDA is 11-0 ATS L/11  against poor defensive teams - allowing 2.85+ goals/game - season.

NHL Home Favorites against the money line (FLORIDA) - hot team - covering 8 or more of their last 10 against the spread, on Sunday games are 44-6 L/5 seasons for a 88% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on the Florida Panthers to win on the moneyline

The NY Islanders continue to struggle, losing 4 straight games, the last 3 on the road, despite of having an explosive offense behind the likes of rookie sensation Matt Barzal and star center John Tavares. Tonight in the most desperate of situations they must absolutely garner a win, if they have any real chance of a play off spot . With that said their current desperation, gives me confidence in backing a side with their backs up against the proverbial wall. Montreal beat the Isles in a couple of days ago 3-1, back in Quebec, but I'm betting the Isles get their revenge and keep their dwindling  play off hopes alive with a victory .

 Canadiens are 1-8 in their last 9 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.Canadiens are 7-21 in their last 28 road games.Canadiens are 1-5 in their last 6 games following a win. Islanders are 9-2 in their last 11 home games following a road trip of 7 or more days.Islanders are 35-16 in their last 51 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.

NY ISLANDERS are 25-12 ATS  off a road loss by 2 goals or more over the last 3 seasons

MONTREAL is 4-13 ATS L/17 against good offensive teams - 29 shots or more  on goal, convert 17% or more of his  pp - 2nd half of the season this season.

Play on the NY Islanders to win on the moneyline

Last night without the traded  center Paul Stastny, the Blues came out flat and were blasted 8-3  by the Wild. That extended the teams losing streak to 7 straight games. But enough is enough and pros don't like to be embarrassed, as its effects their future contract talks and future in the league, so  I'm now expecting a total effort from the entire Blues team tonight in a big time bounce back situation . QUOTE: "It's embarrassing," forward Vladimir Tarasenko told NHL.com after the game. END QUOTE:  I'm also not worried that the Blues played last night, as they are one of the leagues best conditioned teams,  and are 22-6 in their last 28 games playing on 0 days rest.

Home Favorites against the money line (ST LOUIS) - after failing to cover the spread in 5 or more consecutive games, winning between 51% and 60% of their games on the season in the second half of the season are 34-4 L/21 seasons for a 90% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on St.Louis Blues to win on the moneyline

For whatever reason, St.Louis made a very strange move yesterday, involving trading one of their best forwards Paul Statsny  ,  to division rival Winnipeg which to me  sends a message that says they don't think their team is good enough to compete for the Stanley Cup in their current form. Now today, in the aftermath of that trade deadline move I expect a down effort from the Blues as uncertainty surrounds the team during a current 6 game losing streak.

ST LOUIS is 2-10 ATS   revenging a same season loss vs opponent this season,( Blues lost toWild 6-2 last time they met this season) MINNESOTA is 14-4 ATS  L/18 in home games when playing against a team with a winning record this season. ST LOUIS is 10-19 ATS   against good starting goalies - saving  91.5%  or better of shots against this season

NHL Road underdogs of +100 to +200 against the money line (ST LOUIS) - after failing to cover the spread in 6 or more consecutive games, well rested team - playing 5 or less games in 14 days are just 3-30 on the moneyline L/21 seasons for a go against conversion rate of 91% SU.

Play on Minnesota Wild to win on the moneyline

The Capitals enter this game against Columbus matching up very well against their hosts. Washington has recorded  six straight victories vs Columbus including  three this season and must be respected as viable underdogs in this spot. Washington G Braden Holtby is 14-3-2 lifetime versus the Blue Jackets and gets my support tonight . 'm betting the difference maker comes via the Jackets continued inability to convert on the PP. Note: The Blue Jackets have converted on just  1-for-10 on the power play over their L/6 games and now rank 30th in the NHL at 14.6 percent.

Jackets are 4-9 in their last 13 overall.Blue Jackets are 3-8 in their last 11 vs. a team with a winning record.

WASHINGTON is 16-4 ATS   off a home blowout win by 3 goals or more.(Beat Buffalo 5-1 L/time out) COLUMBUS is 1-8 ATS  revenging 2 consecutive losses to opponent as a favorite this season.

Play on the Washington Capitals to win on the moneyline

The New Jersey Devils are currently playing some exceptional hockey and have won 4 of their L/5 overall, behind star forward Taylor Hall who leads the Devils (31-21-8) with 25 goals and 63 points and is a plus+15 during his last 19 games.. Tonight against expected Wild back up starting goalie Alex Stalock 3.52 GGA vs Devils, I'm betting Hall and company do enough damage to get us a win. Note: Minnesota has struggled away from home this season recording a sub par 12-16 record while allowing 3.6 gpg while scoring just 2.8gpg.

Wild are 7-17 in their last 24 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.

Devils are 9-4 in their last 13 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.

Wild are 0-5 in the last 5 meetings.

Play on the NJ Devils to win on the moneyline

Boston's been tearing up the league in robotic fashion for almost 3 months going (30-6-4), but after exerting a great deal of energy over that period of time,  aare starting to look a little worn out, with recent losses to non play off teams Buffalo and Vancouver, proving they are just human. After playing a grueling physical game last night, in  2-1 in win Calgary  the Bruins are now susceptible  to being upset by a Oilers team on a 3 game home win streak overall and that has owned this series of late winning the L/6 meetings. I'm betting on super star Conner McDavid and company notching the upset here at home.

BOSTON is 2-9 ATS  L/11 revenging a loss vs opponent of 2 goals or more this season.(Edmonton beat the Bruins in Beantown earlier this season by a 4-2 count)

Talbot the Oilers goalie is in top form ,  splitting his last two starts, but stopped 55 of 58 shots during that span. He also has won four of his last six starts at home.

Play on Edmonton to win on the moneyline

The NY Islanders are off back to back shutout wins by identical 3-0 scores. But in those games they allowed 50 and 45 shots for a whopping 95 shots on goal. The Isles D, has been atrocious for much of this season, and I'm now expecting they revert back to their average mean of allowing 3.6 gpg according to my projections. On offense the Isles are chalk full of talent, ie Barzal, Tavares, Lee, Bailey, Eberle, and should light up the lamp today vs a Minnesota side, that allowed an average 3.6 gpg on the road this season. The three most recent meetings in this series have seen a combined average score 9.66 gpg clicking in on the board.

NY NY ISLANDERS are 10-3 OVER in home games in non-conference games this season with a combined average of 7.2 gpg scored.
NY ISLANDERS are 10-3 OVER ( when playing with 2 days rest this season with a combined average score of 7.2 gpg going on the board. NY ISLANDERS are 20-7 OVER against good offensive teams - scoring 2.85+ goals/game this season with a combined average score of 7. gpg going on the board.

Play OVER

The Carolina Hurricanes uncharacteristically exploded for 7 goals last time out in a win vs the shocked looking LA Kings. It must be noted that the Canes have gone under in 7 of their L/8 games after scoring 5 goals more  and are usually a less than explosive team especially in division games, where they score and average of 2.4 gpg, while allowing just 2.8 pgg. Prior to the above mentioned output the Canes, had gone under in 7 straight games, holding opponents to 2 gaols ore less. With NJ embarking on 4th game in 7 nights, I expect they won't have much in the tank to run and gun and instead rely on their ability to score in transition, which is not a good option according to my numbers. With that said, I'm betting on the visitors and their hosts playing a low scoring affair.

Under is 4-0-2 in the last 6 meetings in New Jersey.Under is 9-1-4 in the last 14 meetings.

CAROLINA is 9-1 UNDER  after playing a game where 9 or more total goals were scored this season with a combined average of 4.1 gpg scored.NEW JERSEY is 6-0 UNDER L/6  in home games after 3 or more consecutive overs over the last few seasons, with a combined average of 4.4 gpg going on the board.

CAROLINA is 8-1 UNDER  L/9 against struggling defensive teams - allowing 2.85+ goals/game this season with a combined average of 4.6 gpg scored.

NHL Road teams where the total is 5.5 (CAROLINA) - after 3 straight wins by 2 goals or more against opponent after scoring 3 goals or more in 2 straight games are 50-19 UNDER L/21 seasons for a 73% conversion rate for bettors.

NHL Road teams where the total is 5.5 (CAROLINA) - poor defensive team - allowing 2.85+ goals/game on the season, after scoring 6 goals or more in their previous game are 52-27 UNDER L/5 seasons for a 66% conversion rate for bettors.

Play UNDER

The three time Stanley Cup Champion Blackhawks need wins if they hope for a play off birth this season. Currently on a 5 game losing streak, the Hawks enter this game against  lower tier team the Arizona Coyotes in desperation mode andbe prepared to leaving everything on the ice tonight .  Here a quote of one of the Hawks Dmen: "It's frustrating," Toews said. "(But) it's simple. we know what we've got to do. It's right there in front of us. ... We know we've got a lot of talent and a lot of ability here. We've got to get back to playing simple hockey. At the end of the day, we're still hanging on to that belief in the room (that they can make the playoffs). We need to keep working and not try to do too much." END QUOTE. With that said, and considering their current mind set it will be an easy decision to back the Blackhawks  tonight.

Chicago is 8-0 L/8 in this series and 4-0 L/4 here in Arizona.

CHICAGO is 43-15 ATS  against poor teams - outscored by their opponents by 0.3+ goals/game. ARIZONA is 12-36 ATS  against poor defensive teams - opponents average 29.5+ shots on goal this season. ARIZONA is 4-16 ATS  in a home game where the total is 5.5 this season. ARIZONA is 4-21 ATS   revenging 2 consecutive losses to opponent as a favorite this season. ARIZONA is 0-9 ATS  revenging 2 straight losses vs opponent by 2 goals or more this season.

Play on Chicago to win on the moneyline

The offensively explosive NY Islanders behind up and coming super star Mathew Barzal  made a three-goal deficit  evaporate last time out by scoring four goals during a five-minute power play late in the third period before edging the visiting Detroit Red Wings 7-6 in overtime. I look for the Isles to now use the momentum of that victory to come out here and get themselves another win in this spot vs the visiting Calgary Flames. NYI Goalie  Halak is 8-5-1 in 14 career appearances against the Flames and he and his team get my support here in this start.

NY ISLANDERS are 8-0 ATS   after allowing 3 goals or more 5 straight games this season.

CALGARY is 3-10 ATS  after a close loss by 1 goal in their previous game this season which happened last time out.

NY ISLANDERS are 6-1 ATS  against good starting goalies - (saving 91.5% or more of shots against) in the 2nd half of the season dating back to last season.

Play on the NY Islanders to win on the moneyline

The Penguins enter this road game against the Dallas Stars having struggled away from home this season, as is evident by a 7-15 record in their last 22 road games. Meanwhile, the Stars  are a bankroll expanding 19-8 in their last 27 home games. The  defending champion Penguins  look to once again  be at a disadvantage as visitors vs a team that is molding into top form of late as the Stars have won 3 straight and have outscored their last four opponents by a 16-5 mark.

Note: Stars expected starting goalie Lehtonen has won his last four starts between the pipes,  allowing just 5 goals during that run, and is 10-5-3 with a solid .915 save percentage in 18 career games vs the Pens..

Penguins are 1-6 in their last 7 vs. Central.Stars are 2-5 in their last 7 vs. Metropolitan.Penguins are 0-4 in the last 4 meetings in Dallas.The Stars have won five of the last six meetings with the Penguins.

PITTSBURGH is 2-10 ATS  in road games against good starting goalies - saving 91.5% or better  of shots against this season. DALLAS is 12-2 ATS  L/14 in home games against good possession teams-averaging 3+ more shots on goal than opposition.  

Play on Dallas to win on the moneyline

The Kings 3-7 in their L/10  return home after a four-game road trip that ended in a 5-0 loss to the Nashville Predators in a game that had me believing from their on ice effort and the numbers associated with that the game  that this team is struggling to score and get offensive flow, which has been an issue since C Jeff Carter went down with an injury.  With LA coming off a 4 game road trip and now looking to get acclimated to their won digs again, another lackluster effort is not out of the question vs a an opponent that they may not be that charged up to play against .  Meanwhile, Arizona has won the lone game between the teams this season, registering a 3-2 overtime win at Gila River Arena on Nov. 24 and have won their L/5 visits to LA. I know the Coyotes don't inspire many bettors, but this team seems to have a formula for dealing with the Kings and are a value selection here this evening on this underdog line.

LOS ANGELES is 1-4 ATS  L/5 in home games against terrible teams - outscored by opponents by 0.5+ goals/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons. LOS ANGELES is 2-8 ATS  L/10  after a loss by 2 goals or more in their previous game this season.

Kings are 1-5 in their last 6 home games.Kings are 2-7 in their last 9 vs. Western Conference.

Play on the Arizona Coyotes to win on the moneyline

The Leafs enter this game in Beantown having dominated this series in the past and have  won seven straight against the Bruins and have a four-game TD Garden winning streak. Toronto's expected starting goalie tonight Andersen, 9-0 with a 1.88 goals-against average and .944 save percentage lifetime against the Bruins. From a matchup perspective my own projections estimate that the Leafs domination of this  series will continue here this evening. Note: Tuska Rusk who is a 17-0-2 in his L/19 games is just 0-3 in his L/3 starts vs the Leafs.

Toronto beat Boston in back to back games back in November , 3-2 and 4-1 in the second game. BOSTON is 1-9 ATS  revenging a loss vs opponent of 2 goals or more this season.

Play on the Toronto Maple Leafs to win on the money-line

The Blues, are off a win vs the  Montreal Canadiens in St. Louis on Tuesday night,  and have  now won three straight and five of their last six behind back up  goalie Hutton who  has allowed just seven goals in the six starts and leads the NHL in GAA (1.70) and save percentage (.945).  If designated top goalie Allen starts , that not a bad thing either as he is 3-1-0 with a 1.92 GAA and .940 save percentage lifetime against the Bruins.  Meanwhile, the Bruins had an 18-game point streak abruptly stopped with a 3-1 loss to the Anaheim Ducks in the opener of Boston's three-game homestand Tuesday their first after the all star break.  The Bruins are also now short handed  and at a disadvantage  with Brad Marchand  out via  suspension   and rookie Charlie McAvoy  ( heart procedure). Noel Acciari,  (lower body injury)  and also  Anders Bjork, injured in the last game.

ST LOUIS is 8-2 ATS  L/10 in road games against good passing teams - averaging 5 or more assists per game in the 2nd half of the year  dating back to last season and  6-1 ATS   in road games versus very good teams - outscoring their opponents by 0.5+ goals/G - 2nd half of the season dating back to their last campaign. Blues HC MIKE YEO is 9-2  L/11 against the money line against good defensive teams - allowing 2.55 or less goals/game - 2nd half of the season.

 Blues are 5-1 in their last 6 vs. a team with a winning record.Blues are 8-1 in the last 9 meetings in Boston.Road team is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.

Play on the St.Louis Blues to win on the moneyline

The Boston Bruins  have gone 18 games without a regulation loss -- last losing in 60 minutes way back on Dec. 14. The 14-0-4 is the franchise's longest since 1968-69 and tied for the second-longest in club history. However, all good and bad runs must eventually  come to an end , and that what I'm betting on tonight as the rough and tumble Anaheim Ducks come to town . The Ducks  as they have gotten healthier are getting better and are a formidable opponent, as is evident by a recent 4-1 home stand including  a 8-3-1 run in their last 12, 10-4-1 in their last 15 before the all star break. Considering the Bruins are going to be without key cogs suspended Brad Marchand, rookie defenseman Charlie McAvoy (heart procedure) and Noel Acciari (lower body) they are also short handed and susceptible to down performance as the break probably has also broken their momentum. Its also interesting to note that Bruins goalie  Rask, 16-0-2 in his L/18 but  just 1-6-1 with a 3.62 GAA and .865 save percentage lifetime against Anaheim, will sit in favor of backup and former Duck -- Anton Khudobin (0-1-1 vs Anaheim).  the Ducks know Khudobin's weaknesses well and have an edge here.

Ducks  are 4-0 in their last 4 vs. Eastern Conference.Ducks are 8-0 in the last 8 meetings.

Play on the Anaheim Ducks to win on the moneyline

The Blue Jackets  enter this game vs Arizona  looking to get back on track after a nasty 6-3 setback at Western Conference-leading Vegas on Thursday in their final game before the All-Star break. The Jackets have shown that they are motivated by being embarrassed as they are 7-0 ATS  L/7 after a blowout loss by 3 goals or more in their previous game this season. Meanwhile, Arizona despite of being on a 2 game win streak, are a team that does not inspire bettors, because of their overall lackluster play this season. The Coyotes have also proven to be bad bets when, they are playing well, as is evident by their 0-11 ATS  L/11 record  after allowing 2 goals or less in 2 straight games dating back to last season.

ARIZONA is 0-8 ATS  L/8 against struggling power play teams - scoring on 13% or less of their chances dating back to last season.ARIZONA is 4-19 ATS  L/23 against good starting goalies - saving  91.5% or more  of shots against this season.

Columbus is 5-0 SU L/5 meetings in this series.

NHL Home underdogs of +100 to +150 against the money line (ARIZONA) - terrible team - outscored by their opponents by 0.5+ goals/game - 2nd half of the season, after a close win by 1 goal in their previous game are 2-26 L/5 seasons for a 93% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on Columbus to win on the moneyline

Battle of Alberta" resumes as the Oilers host the Flames this Thursday night.Edmonton (21-24-3) has taken the first two games of the season series and has won 6 straight meetings in this series .  The best game Edmonton played all season was their opening 3-0 win vs the Flames Oct. 7 at home. On Dec and I'm expecting a rinse and repeat situation tonight vs a Calgary team on tired legs after three straight grueling  OT losses including last night . After a 3 game losing streak the Oilers lost their concentration, in  half assed effort vs the Sabres last time out losing by a  5-0 count. Pros don't like to be embarrassed, and tonight I expect the Oilers will be ready to play and very motivated.

Flames are 6-13 in their last 19 games following OT on the previous day.  Oilers are 36-17 in their last 53 vs. Pacific.

Note: Calgary netminder Smith is 0-3-0 with a 3.64 GAA and .891 save percentage in his last four games (three starts) versus Edmonton.

Play on Edmonton to win on the moneyline

The Detroit Red Wings looked like they matched up very well against the Chicago Blackhawks in a recent meeting that saw them defeat the Hawks by a  4-0 count back on Jan 14, in Chicago. I'm betting the Red Wings have the edge again, vs a tired Hawks team that was in action last night and now  playing their  3rd game in 4 nights and their 4th game in 6 nights and in are also in a  funk as they have lost 4 straight tilts. Note: the Blackhawks are 1-5 in their last 6 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 situation and  1-6 in their last 7 in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation and 1-7 in their last 8 games playing with no rest.

CHICAGO is 9-18 ATS  against good offensive teams - 29 or more shots on goal, convert 17% or more of  pp this season.

CHICAGO is 6-13 ATS  revenging a loss versus opponent this season and are 2-5 in the last 7 meetings in Detroit.

NHL Road teams against the money line (CHICAGO) - revenging a blowout loss vs opponent of 4 goals or more, off 2 consecutive home losses by 2 goals or more and 3-31  L/21 seasons for a 93%  go against conversion rate for bettors.

Play on the Detroit Red Wings to win on the moneyline

The Los Angeles Kings  enter this game desperate to end a  six-game losing streak  and have a good chance at achieving this vs a  banged up tired and short handed  New York Rangers  team this  Sunday night at the  Staples Center. The Kings are a veteran team that has won two Stanley Cups and must be respected. With the Rangers ready to play their 3rd game in 4 days, the home team  despite of also being in a 3 games and 4 days situation very much have the advantage. Rangers are 4-9 in their last 13 in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation.Kings are 4-0 in their last 4 in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation.

Rangers have lost 12 of their 19 games on the road this season.

Rangers are 2-5 in their last 7 road games.Rangers are 1-5 in their last 6 vs. a team with a winning record.Kings are 4-1 in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.

NHL Home Favorites against the money line (LOS ANGELES) - after failing to cover the spread in 5 or more consecutive games, winning between 51% and 60% of their games on the season in the second half of the season are 33-4 SU L/21 seasons for a 89% conversion rate on the blind.

Play on the LA Kings on the moneyline

The Tampa Bay Lightning after setting a torrid rate out of the gate this season  are now  struggling on both ends of the ice, failed to win 4 of their L/6 overall as they go against the well-rested Minnesota Wild this  Saturday night. Meanwhile, the Wild  are  15-4-4 record on home ice, this season . Goaltender Devan Dubnyk has allowed two or fewer goals in five of his last  seven starts and has owned the Bolts as is evident by  a 1.89 goals-against average along with a .930 save percentage lifetime versus the Lightning.

Lightning are 0-5 in the last 5 meetings in Minnesota and the home team has won 10 of the L/11 meetings overall.

Play on the Minnesota Wild to win on the moneyline

Calgary has been off since last Sunday, after a bye week, but are more than capable of picking up where they left off before the break. Prior to their five-day break, the Flames had peeled off seven consecutive  wins, while scoring 4 or more goals in each game. Meanwhile, the  Jets have also  been off since dropping a 4-1 road decision to the Minnesota Wild last Saturday night, and that was after losing 2-1 in Chicago to the Blackhawks the night before and are now just  1-10 in their last 11 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. Overall the  Jets are 3-11 in their last 14 road games.

Jets are 0-5 in the last 5 meetings in Calgary.The Flames defeated the Jets 6-3 on Oct. 7 in Calgary, getting two goals and two assists from D T.J. Brodie.

Play on Calgary to win on the moneyline

 Ottawa enters this game against  St.Louis playing  a little better of late, winning 3 of their L/4, but in the recent past this is not a good omen as they are   0-5 ATS in home games after having won 2 of their last 3 games this season losing  by an average of 2.4 gpg. What's also unfortunate for the Senators is that they had their momentum stripped away from them via some quirky scheduling as they enter this game on 3 days rest. Yes, they maybe refreshed but their flow will have been interrupted, which is not a good thing vs a tough fore checking team like the Blues.
Senators are 0-4 in their last 4 games playing on 3 or more days rest.

 OTTAWA is 1-6 ATS in home games in non-conference games this season losing by an average of 1.8 gpg.

Blues are 38-17 in their last 55 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.Blues are 21-10 in their last 31 vs. Eastern Conference.Senators are 1-7 in their last 8 vs. Western Conference.

Road team is 7-0 in the last 7 meetings.Blues are 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Ottawa.

Home underdogs of +100 to +150 against the money line (OTTAWA) - struggling team - outscored by their opponents by 0.5+ goals/game - 2nd half of the season, after a close win by 1 goal in their previous game are 2-24 L5 seasons for a 92% go against conversion rate for bettors.

Play on St.Louis to win on the moneyline