Goaltender John Gibson earned a shutout when the Ducks beat the Penguins in their earlier game, Dec. 23 in Pittsburgh and I'm betting they turn the trick again tonight on their own home ice. The Ducks have been banged up for most of the season but are now healthy and ready to roll.

Their is also some animosity being carried into this game by the Ducks against the league, as their being penalized somewhat unfairly for their physical play which the refs have been cracking down on. We all know this a very physical Anaheim team, and their not taking kindly to the attention, that has been heaped on them of late, as was the case when current NHL iron man Andrew Cogliano, who held the league's current iron-man streak (consecutive games played), was suspended two games for a hit on Adrian Kempe of the Kings in the game Saturday. His team mates and he himself seem pretty broken up about the situation, and will be ready to take out on league darlings and defending Stanley Cup champs Pittsburgh in this spot.

PITTSBURGH is 4-9 ATS when playing against a marginal losing team (Win Pct. 40% to 49%) this season and 7-12 ATS L/19 against good starting goalies - saving 91.5% or more of shots against this season..ANAHEIM is 7-3 ATS L/10 against good possession teams-averaging 3+ more shots on goal than opp this season.

Road underdogs of +100 to +200 against the money line (PITTSBURGH) - off 2 or more consecutive home wins against opponent off a road blowout loss by 3 goals or more are 5-39 SU l/5 seasons for a go against conversion rate of 89% for bettors.

Play on the Anaheim Ducks to win on the moneyline

The Islanders are off a 5-4 OT win vs the Montreal Canadians at the Molson Center last time out, and should have plenty left in the tank to deal with the struggling NJ Devils here tonight on their own home ice. Yes, this will be the Isles third game since the weekend, but they are off a bye week, and be more than ready to play here again on short rest. The Isles are a fun team to watch, via some explosive offensive hockey, and you have to be able to outscore them, or have your goalie stand on his head to beat them. Yes, the Islanders D, has shown some troubling issues because of their style of play , but the Devils are lacking in offensive weapons except for Taylor Hall, and are at a disadvantage here tonight. Note: The Devils suffered their  sixth straight loss Saturday, when they returned from their "bye week" with a 5-3 loss to the visiting Philadelphia Flyers. Their  D has now  allowed 26 goals during that skid, which is not a good omen against an Islanders team with the leagues 2nd most productive offense.

Devils are 0-6 in their last 6 road games.Devils are 0-8 in the last 8 meetings in New York.

NEW JERSEY is 2-14 ATS  L/16  in road games after 3 or more consecutive losses .NY ISLANDERS are 15-8 ATS  L/23 after playing a road game this season.

NJD Goalie Schneider is 3-5-2 in 10 career appearances against the Islanders. NYI G Halak is 12-4-2 in 20 games against the Devils.

Play on the NY Islanders

The San Jose Sharks visit the Los Angeles Kings in afternoon NHL action on Martin Luther King Jr. Day at  the Staples Center. The Sharks are looking for their third consecutive win over the Kings and I'm betting they get it in a building that they have a lot of success in in recent meetings winning 8 of  their L/9 games here. Meanwhile, the Kings are struggling losing 3 straight and 6 of its L/10 games, and are far from being in top form and once again vulnerable to being on the wrong end of the score sheet.

LOS ANGELES is 4-13 ATS when playing against a team with a winning record this season and is is 1-7 ATS  L/8 when playing against a marginal winning team (Win Pct. 51% to 60%) this season.

Sharks are 4-0 in their last 4 vs. Pacific.Kings are 1-6 in their last 7 vs. a team with a winning side.Kings are 3-8 in their last 11 vs. Pacific.

Play on the San Jose Sharks to win on the money line

The red hot Calgary Flames come into this tilt against Carolina looking for  a sweep of a four-game road trip and extending a 6 game win streak after winning Thursday night at Tampa Bay and Friday night at Florida. The Flames have played a heavy schedule of late, but are one of the leagues best conditioned teams, having won 6 straight after playing 3 games in 4 nights and are 10-1 L/11 overall after playing 4 games in 6 nights. Meanwhile, Carolina has been mostly inconsistent this season, and have lost 5 of their L/7 overall and barley above.500 at home where they own a 10-9 mark. Considering the current form of both sides it will be an easy decision to back the streaking Calgary Flames in this spot.

Flames have not allowed more than 3 goals in a game over a 17 tilt stretch.

Flames are 40-16 in their last 56 vs. a team with a losing record.CALGARY is 10-2 ATS L/12 after a 4 game unbeaten streak dating back to last season.Hurricanes are 1-6 in their last 7 vs. Pacific.

Play on Calgary to win on the moneyline

The Washington Capitals  enter this game in top form and currently sit at the top of the  Metropolitan Division. This Thursday night they host a struggling Carolina Canes team, who are  1-3-1 in their last five games and sit seventh in the Metropolitan Division. Considering these teams are playing at the opposite end of the proverbial  performance spectrum of late, and the Caps notable dominance in this series at home, as is evident by a perfect 7-0 mark here, it is an easy decision for me to recommend we take the host side in this spot.

Caps Goalie Holtby is 12-4-0 with two shutouts, a 1.85 GAA and a .943 save percentage versus Carolina. Caps super star Ovechkin has 35 goals and 47 assists in 70 games against the Hurricanes. The 47 assists are his most against any team.

CAROLINA is 8-29 ATS  L/37  in road games when playing against a team with a winning record and  3-16 ATS  L/19  in road games when playing against a good team (Win Pct. 60% to 75%).CAROLINA is 4-17 ATS  L/21  in road games against good teams - outscoring their opponents by 0.3+ goals/game. WASHINGTON is 31-11 ATS  L/42 in home games against good offensive teams - 29 shots  or more on goal, convert 17% or more of their  pp opportunities.

Canes are 0-4 L/4 vs an above .500 team. Capitals are 41-12 L/53 home games.

Play on the Washington Capitals

Expected starting GOALTENDERS: CALGARY - MIKE SMITH, MINNESOTA - ALEX STALOCK

The Calgary Flames enter this game with momentum winning 3 straight, but I'm betting a hungry Minnesota team off an embarrassing 7-2 road loss to Colorado last time out will be in bounce back mode and primed and ready to put the proverbial Flame out. Minnesota  plays their best hockey at home and have collected at least a point in 12 of their last 13 games at Xcel Energy Center since Nov. 14, recording  an impressive 11-1-1 record . Minnesota is also 2-0-0 vs the Flames this season, after a 4-2 win in Calgary in October, and a 2-1 shootout win at home in December. I'm betting on more of the same home sweet home domination to continue in this spot.

Wild are 5-0 in their last 5 games following a loss of 3 or more goals.Flames are 4-9 in their last 13 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.

NHL Road underdogs against the money line (CALGARY) - off 2 or more consecutive home wins against opponent off a road loss by 2 goals or more are 5-40 L/5 seasons for a go against conversion rate of 89% for bettors and Road underdogs of +100 to +200 against the money line (CALGARY) - off 2 or more consecutive home wins against opponent off a road loss by 2 goals or more are 4-39 L/5 seasons for a 91% go against conversion rate!

Play on the Minnesota Wild to win on the moneyline

Two struggling teams the NJ Devils (0-4 L/4) and NY Islanders (0-5 L/5) go head to head today in Brooklyn. Both sides are in a slump, but I'm betting the side (NYI), with the superior overall talent base and home ice advantage will be the difference maker.

Devils are 0-5 in their last 5 road games. Devils have lost 7 straight visits to NYI.

NEW JERSEY is 0-7 ATS  L/7 after a road game where both teams score 3 or more goals this season.NY ISLANDERS are 5-0 ATS  L/5 after allowing 3 goals or more 5 straight games dating back to last season.NY ISLANDERS are 11-2 ATS  L/13 off a blowout loss by 3 goals or more to a division rival.

Play on the NY Islanders to win on the moneyline

Toronto enters this game in a funk having lost three straight and 7 of their L/10 overall. Also after playing a grueling game vs league leading TB last time out and losing by a 2-0 count, I'm expecting the TO crew to also be on tired legs and in an emotional let down situation.  That's not a good omen for the Buds, chances tonight, as they take on a  San Jose Sharks side that is 9-6-2 on the road this season and has won its last seven trips to Toronto and 10 straight overall meetings in this series.

San Jose has collected 15 power-play goals in its last 11 games and Sharks G Aaron Dell owns a .942 save percentage over his last 12 games.

Maple Leafs are 0-5 in their last 5 games playing on 1 days rest.

SAN JOSE is 5-0 ATS in road games when they get 32 to 36 shots on goal this season.
(Toronto allows an average of 33.8 shot per game and 34 shots per game at home this season)

Play on the San Jose Sharks to win on the moneyline

The Senators enter this road game against the Detroit Red Wings mired in a deep offensive slump, as is evident by  being shut out in five of the last 13 games. I'm betting the Senators scoring woes won't get much better here tonight, vs a red hot Red Wings goalie Jimmy Howard who  has allowed just  seven goals in his last four starts, and three in two meetings with Ottawa this season. Meanwhile, the Wings  are playing solid defensive hockey of late, and have allowed 3 or less goals in 7 of their L/8 games, and have seen 8 of their L/10 games stay on the low side of the Total and have only scored more than 3 goals in 2 of those 10 games. Motowns hockey crew did score a 4-1 win last time out, but in the past when they have notched 4 or more goals in a previous game and then playing at home  have gone under in 12 of 13 games, with a combined average of just 3.5 gpg scored. Look for both teams to partake in more offensive futility tonight and for this tilt to remain on the low side the number.

OTTAWA is 24-9 UNDER  L/33  in road games against poor teams - outscored by their opponents by 0.3+ goals/game with a combined average of 4.9 gpg scored. DETROIT is 11-3 UNDER  L/14 vs. division opponents this season with a combined average of 5.1 gpg scored. OTTAWA is 9-2 UNDER  when playing against a team with a losing record this season.

Under is 5-0 in Red Wings last 5 home games.Under is 13-3 in Red Wings last 16 vs. Atlantic.Under is 4-0 in Senators last 4 road games vs. a team with a losing home record.Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings.

Play UNDER

Florida enters this game on a 5 game winning streak, but tonight I, betting on their current run coming to an abrupt end vs a  Minnesota Wild team that matches up well against them. Yes, Florida did beat the Wild back on Dec 22 as -115 home chalk by a 4-2 count, but now The Wild in revenge mode will be well prepared for pay back. The Wild are 8-1-1 L/9 at home in this series and have won the 2 most recent games here in the Land of Lakes.

MINNESOTA is 12-3 ATS  L/15 revenging a road loss versus opponent by 2 goals or more.

Panthers are 9-20 in their last 29 road games.Panthers are 3-8 in their last 11 vs. Western Conference.Wild are 7-1 in their last 8 home games.Wild are 7-3 in their last 10 vs. a team with a losing record.Panthers are 0-5 in the last 5 meetings in Minnesota.

NHL Road underdogs of +100 to +200 against the money line (FLORIDA) - off 2 or more consecutive home wins against opponent off a road blowout loss by 3 goals or more are 4-38 L/5 seasons SU for a go against  91% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on Minnesota Wild to win on the moneyline

Vegas will bring in an NHL expansion team record six-game winning streak  into an afternoon tilt   with the Maple Leafs (23-14-2), who are off losing in overtime at Colorado 4-3 on Friday night.The Golden Knights are 15-2-1 at T-Mobile Arena on the season , and  are 10-0-1 in their last 11 games and haven't lost a contest in regulation since falling at Winnipeg 7-4 on Dec. 1. The Knights Starting goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury, has allowed just six goals over his last four games. The contest will mark the end of five straight road games for the Maple Leafs, and be at a disadvantage and on tired legs here vs a team that plays top tier hockey on their own home ice.

VEGAS is 9-2 ATS L/11 against good teams - outscoring their opponents by 0.3+ goals/game this season.TORONTO is 5-15 ATS  L/20 when playing their 3rd game in 4 days.

NHL Home Favorites against the money line (VEGAS) - hot team - having won 8 or more of their last 10 games, on Sunday games are 42-6 SU L/5 seasons for a 88% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on Las Vegas to win on the moneyline

GOALTENDERS: TORONTO - CURTIS MCELHINNEY, COLORADO - SEMYON VARLAMOV

 The Maple Leafs are coming off a 7-4 win over the Coyotes on Thursday night, and they got in late and will now be on tired legs and will may find themselves  tiring as this tilt progresses which usually results in sloppy defensive play, and a lazy wide open style of hockey. On the flipside, The Avalanche will have  a lot of difficulties trying to stop young star Austin Matthews and the Toronto offense that is explosive , especially with one of  their  top defensemen,  Tyson Barrie out with an injury. Everything points in the direction of a fairly high scoring game that eclipse's the Total.

Over is 8-1 in Avalanche last 9 vs. Atlantic OVER is .16-5 in Avalanche last 21 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.Over is 17-6-3 in Avalanche last 26 vs. Eastern Conference.Over is 7-0 in the last 7 meetings in Colorado. Avalanche Goalie SEMYON VARLAMOV(vs. Non-Conference) 10-3 OVER L/13 .

Play OVER

GOALTENDERS: OTTAWA - CRAIG ANDERSON, BOSTON - TUUKKA RASK

Entering the Christmas break both these teams were on different trajectories  , Boston moving upward and Ottawa moving in a negative direction. But this long a holiday break many times can break a teams momentum , and create a different energy flow going forward.  The Bruins had won 5 in a row, after playing average at best hockey in the beginning of the season, while Ottawa has lost  three in a row, but played well enough to win in its last two games.... a heart breaking shootout loss at league-best Tampa Bay and a 1-0 setback at Florida. With that said, and  from a matchup perspective, based on my own power rankings, the Sens are viable underdogs spot and matchup well vs the Bruins  and deserve an investment outlay as part of a long term strategy for pro hockey profits. It's never easy pulling the trigger on these types of perceived mismatches, but in todays NHL, parity is at a all time high  and according to my pre season head to head and talent matchup analysis were the better team going into this campaign. I know both are currently at the opposite end of the performance spectrum, but things can change fast.

BOSTON is 10-18 ATS  L/28  in home games off a home win.

Ottawa has won six in a row in Boston, including all three playoff games last season

Play on the Ottawa Senators to win on the moneyline

The Wild enter this game taking advantage of below .500 home teams  like the Panthers  on  a consistent basis of late winning four straight games.  That's not a good omen for the Panthers as they are off an extended 5 game road trip that will have them taking time to acclimate themselves to being home again. The Panthers are off a win last time out but they are just 1-5 L/6 following  a win!

Wild are 18-6 in their last 24 vs. Atlantic.Wild are 18-6 in their last 24 vs. Atlantic.Wild are 6-1 in the last 7 meetings.

MINNESOTA is 5-0 ATS L/5 in road games after allowing 3 goals or more 2 straight games this season.FLORIDA is 1-6 ATS L/7 in home games off a road win over the last 2 seasons.

Play on the Minnesota Wild to win on the moneyline

The Blue Jackets and their hosts the defending Stanley cup Champion Penguins are two teams struggling to stay consistent at the moment.

Columbus did get a win  Wednesday night with a 4-2 win over Toronto but that followed a ugly stretch of three losses in four games when they allowed a total of 20 goals. Blue Jackets goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky is expected to start against the Penguins. Backup Joonas Korpisalo started against Toronto  last time out after Bobrovsky started eight games in a row. Bobrovsky was 3-5-0 in those starts, with a 3.81 goals-against average and a .878 save percentage and I wont be surprised is he gets gauged again  by Pens offense that is  led by super star Sid Crosby. My own estimates/projections suggest a Pens win by 4-3 or4-2 count which makes a OVER wager a viable wagering opportunity.

COLUMBUS is 5-0 OVER L/5  in road games against excellent power play teams - scoring on > 19% of their chances this season with a combined average of 8.2 gpg scored. PITTSBURGH is 7-0 OVER   against poor power play teams - scoring on  14.5% or less of their chances  with a combined average of 7.5 gpg scored.

PITTSBURGH is 14-3 OVER  L/17 when playing against a good team (Win Pct. 60% to 75%) in the first half of the season over the last 2 seasons with a combined average of 7.1 gpg scored.

Play OVER

GOALTENDERS: FLORIDA - JAMES REIMER, ARIZONA - ANTTI RAANTA

It's not often I look to the Arizona Coyotes to deliver profits to myself and my clients, but tonight that's exactly what I'm doing. With that said,  I'm  going against the road weary Florida Panthers a tired team that is playing their 5th straight away game. Both sides, could be poster boys for NHL futility, but the Coyotes have an edge from a matchup and goalie  perspective.  Coyotes G Antti Raanta owns a  spectacular .932 save percentage on penalty kills and overall  has allowed just eight goals on his last 123 shots faced, while the Panthers go with backup James Reimer(.898 SV%), because of star starter Luongo being out with injury. Advantage Desert dogs.

FLORIDA is 2-11 ATS  when playing against a team with a losing record this season and is 3-14 ATS   after playing 4 consecutive road games . Panthers are 0-4 in their last 4 vs. Pacific.Panthers are 8-20 in their last 28 road games.Home team is 7-0 in the last 7 meetings.Panthers are 0-4 in the last 4 meetings in Arizona.

Play on the Arizona Coyotes to win on the moneyline

GOALTENDERS: LOS ANGELES - JONATHAN QUICK, PHILADELPHIA - BRIAN ELLIOTT

This matchup features two teams playing at the opposite end of the performance spectrum at the moment form a W/L perspective. The Kings have lost three straight while the Flyers have won 6 straight. However, the Kings are still the superior team in this matchup according to my own cross reference player/team/systems matchup analysis. Previous to their current 0-2-1 run the Kings won 8 straight, and showing some dominant defensive strengths. Meanwhile, previous to the Flyers current run, they had lost 10 straight games, and from my perspective when analysing their talent are fortunate to be winning at  the moment and playing well above their heads.

Kings are 4-0 in their last 4 vs. a team with a losing record.Flyers are 4-9 in their last 13 home games.Kings are 5-1 in the last 6 meetings in Philadelphia.

PHILADELPHIA is 3-8 ATS  in home games in non-conference games this season. PHILADELPHIA is 0-6 ATS  L/6  in home games after 2 straight games where 3 or fewer total goals were scored.

Play on the LA Kings to win on the moneyline

The Blues will play the Winnipeg Jets in a home-and-home series beginning Saturday night in St. Louis.

The Blues are banged up with numerous injuries and having problems scoring goals which is never a good recipe for positive results. The Blues are under .500, 6-7, in their last 13 home games and have been shut out three times and scored just 10 goals in its last six home games. Meanwhile, Winnipeg their opponents are off a 5-1 loss to the Blackhawks last time out, but that was just their  first regulation loss at home in 11 games and they will be primed for a bounce back here vs a struggling side.

Jets are 7-1 in their last 8 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Blues are 2-5 in their last 7 vs. a team with a winning record.Jets are 6-0 in the last 6 meetings.

Play on the Winnipeg Jets to win on the moneyline

The Leafs had a 3 game win streak end last time out , at Philadelphia losing 4-2. The Leafs despite of playing decent hockey of late, are surprisingly struggling to score with the same ferocity as many of the pundits expect , and have scored 2 or less goals in 7 of their L/11 games an dhv eonly eclipsed the total once in their L/5 overall games.  With star sniper Austin Matthews injured, and the Leafs in the midst of playing 5 games in 7 nights, and now on tired legs I'm expecting another muted offensive effort here on the road in Minnesota. Meanwhile, the Wild knowing that their No.1 goalie Dubynk is down with an injury, will be paying special attention to defensive assignments, which in combination with Toronto' s situation should see a score that stays on the low side of the Total. Note: Under is 5-2 in Wild last 7 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

Under is 5-1-1 in Maple Leafs last 7 vs. Western Conference.Under is 10-4 in Wild last 14 games following a win.Under is 10-0-1 in the last 11 meetings.

Play UNDER

Washington, which earned the Presidents' Trophy as the NHL's best regular-season team each of the last two seasons, is 8-2-0 since Nov. 16, when it fell to the Colorado Avalanche, 6-2. Tonight however, I'm betting on their momentum getting broken vs a NYI side that is 1-1-2 in their L/4 and very eager to get back in the win column. Who better to get things rolling against than their long time rivals the Washington Capitals. New York is 8-1-2 at Barclays  this season, and have won the last two meetings here between these teams, and they get my backing tonight behind an explosive offense that must be respected

NHL Road underdogs of +100 to +200 against the money line (WASHINGTON) - off 2 or more consecutive home wins against opponent off a road blowout loss by 3 goals or more are 4-34 SU dating back 5 seasons for a 90% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on the NY Islanders to win on the moneyline

The Islanders are a fast skating and   offensively explosive NHL team that must be respected here as underdogs. This Isles teams throws 3 full lines of talent at you in waves, and their hard to stop. I know the Islander Achilles heel is their defense , but the Bruins are just  5-10 ATS L/15  in home games against struggling  defensive teams - allowing 3+ goals/game.

According to my own cross reference numbers the Bruins do not matchup well vs this kind of side, and are at a disadvantage tonight.

The Islanders won both games in Boston and the Bruins took the only meeting in Brooklyn last season and I expect the visitors trend to stay intact after tonight's tilt. Anomaly or not its interesting to note that the NY ISLANDERS are 7-0 ATS  on Saturday games this season.

NY ISLANDERS are 7-0 ATS  after a division game this season and  7-1 ATS   off a road loss this season. ( The Islanders lost to Pittsburgh 4-3 in OT last time out). BOSTON is 1-6 ATS  off a home win this season beating Arizona last time out)

Play on the NY Islanders to win on the moneyline

The Oilers enter this game vs the Habs off a home loss to the Philadelphia Flyers. However, despite of that regression the Oilers have performed well on the road, scoring 18 goals  while winning 3 of the L/4 away  games and have won 5 of the L/6 at the bell Center in Montreal. Meanwhile, the Canadiens, are off back to back losses vs the  Blues and Flames, and have scored two or fewer goals in 6 of their L11 games as hosts. There's also a motivational back drop, associated with this game.The Oilers,   were sloppy during a drill at practice Thursday, sparking McLellan's outburst which was picked up by a Canadian TV network."There is nobody checking us right now," McLellan yelled at his players. "There's not a (bleeping) single soul out there checking and we can't make the first (bleeping) pass or the second one. Are you giving yourselves a chance? Is it (bleeping) important? Are you getting better? Because some team is getting better somewhere this morning somewhere." END QUOTE: With that said, I'm betting on a motivated effort from the Oilers tonight as underdogs.

EDMONTON is 9-3 ATS  L/13  in road games after allowing 2 goals or more in the third period last game.MONTREAL is 2-10 ATS  L/12 off a close home loss by 1 goal.

Play on the Edmonton Oilers to win on the moneyline 

The Nashville offense is currently clicking and they have scored 5 goals in back to back games, and my own projections estimate another output of around 5 goals here vs a Vegas team, that despite of a winning record on the season, has struggled on defense when travelling, allowing an average of 3.8 gpg in their L/5, an average of 3.7 gpg on the road this season. The Golden Knights saving grace is a offense that is ranked 6th in the league, making this tilt a viable over wagering opportunity.

Over is 5-0-1 in Golden Knights last 6 road games.Over is 10-2-2 in Golden Knights last 14 vs. Western Conference.Over is 4-0 in Predators last 4 games following a win.

VEGAS in 11 games against good starting goalies - saving  91.5% or better  of shots against this season have seen a combined average of 7.1 gpg scored.VEGAS is 8-2 OVER L/10 when playing against a team with a winning record this season with a combined average of 7.2 gpg scored. NASHVILLE is 18-8 OVER L/26 against horrible power play killing teams-opp score on 19% or more  of chances.

NHL team against the total (NASHVILLE) - after having won 4 or 5 of their last 6 games, in a game involving two good teams (60% to 70%) in the first half of the season are 66-28 OVER L/5 seasons for a 70% conversion rate for bettors.

NHL team against the total (VEGAS) - after having won 2 of their last 3 games, in a game involving two good teams (60% to 70%) in the first half of the season are 55-26 OVER L/5 seasons for a 68% conversion rate for bettors.

Play OVER

Two explosive offenses go had to head tonight in TB, as the Isles visit the Lightning. The Islanders   have overtaken the Lightning  as the league's top producing offense, now averaging 3.7 goals per game. New York  in its last 6 games has averaged 4.3 goals , including a 5-4 shootout win at the Florida Panthers on Monday night.

The Isles when they visited here earlier this season took a 5-3 win, and another high scoring affair should be expected tonight as TB will come out flying looking for revenge vs a the Islanders team that  ranks just 24th in goals allowed.

Over is 16-4-1 in Islanders last 21 overall.Over is 5-0 in Lightning last 5 vs. a team with a winning % above .600.

NY ISLANDERS are 6-0 OVER  against good starting goalies - saving 91.5% or more of shots against this season with a combined average of 7.4 gpg scored. NY ISLANDERS are 10-1 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 7.8 gpg scored.

NHL Home teams against the total (TAMPA BAY) - after having won 2 of their last 3 games, in a game involving two good teams (60% to 70%) in the first half of the season are 30-9 OVER L/5 seasons for a 77% conversion rate for Totals bettors.

NHL teams against the total (NY ISLANDERS) - after having won 4 or 5 of their last 6 games, in a game involving two good teams (60% to 70%) in the first half of the season are 65-28 OVER L/5 seasons for a 70% conversion rate for bettors.

Play OVER

The Sharks enter this game having owned the Capitals in the past and have garnered  four victories in a row overall against the Capitals and six straight in Washington as they try to recover from Saturday's 5-2 setback at Tampa Bay - their first regulation loss in seven tilts .Note:  Sharks are 4-0 in their last 4 games following a loss of 3 or more goals. Meanwhile, the  Washington Capitals are 1-4 in their last 5 vs. Western Conference and according to my own cross reference systems and players rankings are currently the inferior team in tonight's matchup.

Sharks are 12-1 in the last 13 meetings in Washington. Sharks are 24-4-1 in the last 29 meetings.

Sharks are 20-7 in their last 27 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game.Sharks are 11-4 in their last 15 in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation.Sharks are 5-2 in their last 7 road games.

Capitals G Braden Holtby has  gone 2-4-0 with an .875 save percentage in his career versus the Sharks.

Play on the San Jose Sharks to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Lightning have dropped four of their last six contests and are slumping after a quick start to their season. The Bolts recently just  managed just seven total goals during a sleepy looking 1-3-0 road trip that ended with Wednesday’s 3-2 setback at Boston. Meanwhile,  San Jose has outscored opponents 9-2 over the last three contests and are performing at the opposite end of the performance spectrum.

The Sharks have won four straight meetings at Tampa Bay, including a 3-1 triumph last season and look like viable wagering options here in this spot.

Sharks are 5-1 in their last 6 road games.Road team is 7-1 in the last 8 meetings.

Play on the San Jose Sharks to win on the moneyline

The Colorado Avalanche  enter this game playing well at Pepsi Center this season. The Avalanche  have re-established home-ice advantage after a sub par showing last season. Colorado is 8-2-1 in Denver after beating Winnipeg in overtime Wednesday night and have the advantage tonight vs a NJ Devils team that they matchup well against according to my cross reference player/system rankings.

Devils are 16-37 in their last 53 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.Home team is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.Devils are 0-6 in the last 6 meetings in Colorado  while allowing just 6 goals.

Play on the Colorado Avs to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The return of star goalie Carey Price  has given the Habs a big boost ,as is evident by  having won two in a row following a five-game losing streak. I was not completely sold on him after some erratic performances this season, but it seems he was playing hurt with a nagging injury, and now feels good according to interviews he gave to local Montreal media groups. There is no doubt Price has in his career sown future hall of fame attributes, and when in top form can sway an outcome of a game, aas has been the case in his L/2 starts as he turned aside 73 of 74 shots. Needless to say with him between the pipes the Canadians are a dangerous side. Tonight against a Ottawa team in a big time funk going 0-6 in their L/6 while scoring only 8 goals  and Ottawa has scored just once in its last 23 power-play chances. . It's obvious that these two sides are operating at the proverbial opposite end of the performance spectrum, and  Les Canadiens have an edge. The Senators have lost  four straight against Montreal, including an 8-3 beat down in Ottawa on Oct. 30 and according to my own cross reference  players/system power rankings do not matchup well vs Montreal. With that said, I'm recommending we take the home team.

Price is 20-8-4 with a 2.37 goals-against average versus the Senators in his career.

Senators are 0-5 in their last 5 vs. Eastern Conference. Canadiens are 4-1 in their last 5 vs. Atlantic.OTTAWA is 7-22 ATS  L/29  in road games revenging a same season loss vs opponent  losing by an average of 1.9 gog.

Play on the Montreal Canadiens to win on the moneyline

The Flyers enter this game on a 8 game losing streak, and look like fade material here again tonight vs the visiting San Jose Sharks, after a grueling /heart breaking 5-4 loss last night in OT to the Pittsburgh Penguins . The Flyers, now on tired legs and in an emotional let down pot are really in a big time funk, as  both special teams. during the above mentioned losing run,    have struggled mightily converting on just  4-for-21 on the power play while allowing 10 goals on 33 opposition power plays. Philadelphia also is averaging just 2.4 goals per game while allowing 3.7gpg. Tonight, vs a Sharks  penalty kill that is ranked second at 88 percent their in trouble again, and also their lack of  goal production should once again lead to their down fall as well a defense that has allowed at least 5 goals in 4 of their L/5 tilts.

Sharks are 4-0 in their last 4 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous gameSharks are 4-1 in their last 5 games playing on 2 days rest.Sharks are 9-4 in their last 13 vs. Metropolitan.Sharks are 21-7 in their last 28 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400.Flyers are 3-13 in their last 16 overall.

Play on the San Jose Sharks to win on the moneyline

Minnesota Wild goalie Devan Dubnyk,   has allowed 16 goals in his past four games after posting three consecutive shutouts. He's gone from hero to zero, and is now in a big time karmic funk. Meanwhile, the Jets, have been bitten by the injury bug over the past week and could be without their top goalie Steve Mason tonight after he was injured last game.  (- Heleybucyk expected to start-three of his L/5 home starts have gone over the set total) . As far as this game is concerned , I can see both teams pressing and for enough goals to be scored to get us over the total.

 Over is 6-0 in the last 6 meetings in Winnipeg.Over is 7-1 in Jets last 8 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game.Over is 9-4-1 in Jets last 14 following a loss of 3 or more goals.Over is 6-2 in Jets last 8 home games.Over is 4-1-1 in Wild last 6 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.Over is 6-2 in Wild last 8 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 days situation.

WINNIPEG is 14-5 OVER L/19 against good starting goalies - saving  91.5%  or better  of shots against with a combined average of 6.6 gpg scored.WINNIPEG is 21-9 OVER  L/30 against good offensive teams - averaging 29.5+ shots on goal per game  with a combined average of 6.8 gpg scored. MINNESOTA is 8-1 OVER  L/9 after a game where they failed to cover the spread this season , with a combined average of 7.4 gpg scored.  ( they lost 6-3 to St.Louis).

Play OVER

The Columbus Blue Jackets, enter this tilt against the Habs on fire as is evident by having won six straight contests -  after taking down the Ottawa Senators 5-2 on Friday.  A good part of the Jackets success comes behind top tier Goalie Sergei Bobrovsky, who leads the league in goals-against average (1.91) and save percentage (.936). The Columbus puck stopper has allowed a total of just six goals during the winning streak - which includes a 2-1 overtime victory at Montreal on Nov. 14. The Blue Jackets have also played terrific hockey on the road going  7-3-1 - including three straight wins - and have done well vs Les Canadien's of late  earning at least one point in six straight meetings with the Canadiens (5-0-1). A lot is being made of having their star Goalie Price back in the lineup of an injury, but previous to his return when he posted a shutout vs the Sabres, he was erratic and not looking like his Hart Trophy self and I'm not sold on him suddenly returning to that form.

Blue Jackets are 41-18 in their last 59 vs. a team with a losing record.Canadiens are 0-6 in their last 6 vs. a team with a winning % above .600.

MONTREAL is 1-10 ATS  L/11 against excellent defensive teams - allowing 2.4 or less goals/game losing on the moneyline by an average of 3 gpg. COLUMBUS is 12-1 ATS  L/13 after a 5 game unbeaten streak .MONTREAL is 6-12 ATS  L/18   in home games revenging a same season loss vs opponent.MONTREAL is 0-6 ATS  L/6 after a division game this season losing on the moneyline by an average of 3 gpg.

Play on the Columbus Blue Jackets to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

 Calgary enters this game on tired legs and will not have the energy to run and gun, and instead I expect a game played by them in transition. After allowing 1 goal in back to back games, the Flames  lost a 6-4 battle last time out, and will now also be out to pay more attention to their defense. Meanwhile, the Avalanche have played their best defensive hockey at home this season, allowing just 2.4 gpg, and pitched a shut out last time as hosts, and defense I'm betting will be their key priority  tonight . With that said, I'm recommending we take an under stance here.

CALGARY is 15-4 UNDER L/19 in road games when playing against a team with a winning record in the first half of the season over the last 3 seasons with a combined average o f 4.5 gpg going on the scoreboard.

NHL Road teams where the total is 6 or more (CALGARY) - 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 are 24-4 UNDER L/21 seasons for a 86% conversion rate.

Play UNDER

The Devils are 3-3-4 since knocking off Vancouver 2-0 on Nov. 1 . Now they get another crack a team that they matchup well against. New Jersey G Cory Schneider is 5-1-2 against his former team and the Devils have won six straight overall versus the Canucks.

I know the Canucks are off a big win last time out upsetting the Stanley Cup champs 5-2 on their own home ice. But now after that behemoth effort I'm betting the Canucks are in letdown mode. Note: Canucks are 7-26 in their last 33 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game and 1-4 on the moneyline off a win. Meanwhile, the  Devils are 5-2 in their last 7 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.

Play on the NJ Devils to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Coyotes are on  a three-game winning streak for the first time all season, but I'm betting that abruptly comes to end tonight vs the San Jose Sharks. After playing 12 of their L/15 games on the road, I'm sure the desert dogs will be happy to be home. However with that said, after spending that much time away, getting acclimated to there own digs may take a little time. Add to that home has not been so sweet for the Coyotes this season, as their  1-6-1 record as hosts would indicate and you have a recipe for catastrophic failure. Look for and expect  Sharks Goaltender Martin Jones (8-5-1)  with a 2.11 goals-against average and .926 save percentage to be key to the Sharks victory in this spot.

Sharks are 20-7 in their last 27 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400.

ARIZONA is 0-11 ATS  L/11 after having won 3 of their last 4 games over and 0-9 ATS   after allowing 2 goals or less in 2 straight games .ARIZONA is 1-10 ATS  L/11 after a 3 game unbeaten streak losing SU by an average of 1.9 gpg.

ARIZONA is 12-40 ATS L/52 when playing against a marginal winning team (Win Pct. 51% to 60%).

NHL team against the money line Arizona  - after successfully covering the spread in 3 or more consecutive games, lower tier team, winning 30% or less of their games in the first half of the season are 3-22 L/21 seasons for a go against conversion rate of 88% for bettors.

Play on the San Jose Sharks to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Senators enter this game in a funk and have lost three straight games, scoring three goals in the process. In their most recent tilt, they had a season-low 20 shots on goal in a 3-0 loss to the New York Rangers on Sunday and I'm betting things don't get much better here tonight vs their hosts the Washington Capitals.

 In November at home, Braden Holtby has recorded a 5-1-0 record, a 1.96 goals-against average and a .938 save % .Holtby is 7-3-1 with a 2.08 GAA and a .932 save percentage versus Ottawa. Ovechkin has 26 goals and 17 assists versus Ottawa, including an opening night hat trick in a 5-4 victory Oct. 5 and will be the catalyst behind a Capitals win tonight.

OTTAWA is 2-7 ATS  L/9 against lower tier  defensive teams -allowing 29 shots on goal or more ,  and convert 17%  or more pp this season.

Senators are 0-4 in the last 4 meetings in Washington.Senators are 1-6 in their last 7 vs. Metropolitan.

Play on the Washington Capitals to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Bruins are pretty banged up entering this game as HC Cassidy said the he will not have Brad Marchand, Torey Krug, Anders Bjork and Adam McQuaid because of injuries in the lineup tonight. Also after coming off a west coast road trip, I'm expecting the Bruins who are fifth in the Atlantic Division -- 12th overall in the Eastern Conference and 25th in the NHL  to be a little tired tonight, giving the home team the edge.

Boston has not been able to take advantage of teams that allow 3+ goals/game this season like the Devils going 0-5 ATS . Bruins are 1-10 in their last 11 vs. Eastern Conference and 0-4 L/4 vs Metro division. Bruins are 1-9 in their last 10 games following a win.Devils are 6-1 in their last 7 vs. Atlantic.Home team is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.

NHL favorite against the money line like NJ - off a road win by 1 goal, a good team (60% to 70%) playing a team with a losing record in the first half of the season are 43-9 L/5 seasons for a 83% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on the NJ Devils to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Blues play a defensive minded style of hockey that works best in transition. Consistent goal tending and disciplined hockey, make them very hard to score against , as their 7th ranked GAA would indicate . Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers, a side with some big offensive names on their roster, ie (McDavid) are a side that is concentrating on playing much better defense, especially on the road thanks to their overall offense not being as productive as expected , ranking a lowly 29th in the league. The Oilers played a sloppy game last time out, losing 6-3, and their coach  Todd McLellan was not happy with their performance. QUOTE: "The goalies have to be better, the defense, the forwards, the coaches have to be better," coach Todd McLellan told the Edmonton Sun. "None of us have lived up to where we need to be and that's why we're where we are in the standings. "I'm not going to single out the goaltender. It's team-wide. END QUOTE: I'm expecting a more disciplined approach from this Oilers group tonight in a game I expect to remain on the low side of the number.

EDMONTON is 6-0 UNDER  in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season with a combined average of 3.4 gpp scored. EDMONTON is 6-0 UNDER  in road games against explosive offensive teams - scoring 3+ goals/game this season with a combined average of 3.7 gpg scored. .ST LOUIS is 13-2 UNDER  L/15 in home games when playing against a bad team (Win Pct. 25% to 40%) with a combined average of 4.5 gpg going on the score board.EDMONTON is 20-9 UNDER  in road games after playing a game where 7 or more total goals were scored which happened last time out.

Under is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.Under is 20-5-3 in Blues last 28 vs. a team with a winning % below .400.Under is 9-4-2 in Blues last 15 vs. Pacific.Under is 11-4-1 in Oilers last 16 games playing on 2 days rest.

Road teams where the total is 5.5 like EDMONTON - revenging a loss vs opponent of 2 goals or more, a struggling  team (30% to 40%) playing a team with a winning record in the first half of the season are 24-4 UNDER L/5 seasons for a 86% conversion rate for bettors.

Play UNDER 1 unit reg selection

The NJ Devils may not inspire bettors but their ( TRAP) style of play matches up well against the Wild, a team that flows in transition. I know the Devils are in a funk, but the Wild are 0-4 in their last 4 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.The Devils have also had good outcomes vs the Wild of late winning the L/4 meetings and are 2-0 in the L/2 meetings here in Minnesota.

Play on the NJ Devils to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

 Former Anaheim stars Teemu Selanne and Paul Kariya will be honored after their Hall of Fame inductions before the Ducks and Florida Panthers drop the puck so their is a bit more special meaning to this game for the Ducks and their fans. QUOTE: "I mean, you are talking about two legends right there, two guys we all grew up watching," said Roy, who grew up in Greenfield Park, Quebec, watching Selanne and Kariya work their magic. "The building is going to be electric for sure. We're all going to be skating with a little extra for those guys." END QUOTE:

I know the Ducks are banged up with multiple injuries , but they are on 3 days rest, and have done well on fresh legs lately going 7-1 in their last 8 games playing on 3 or more days rest. Meanwhile, the Panthers are tired as they play their 4th game in 6 days and are  0-5 in their last 5 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 situation and have played 6 games in 10 days, which is not a good omen for their chances, as they are 0-9 ATS L/ 9 in road games when playing 6 or more games in 10 days losing by an average of 2 gpg.

I know Anaheim may not inspire bettors because of their current  funk, but they are   8-0 ATS (+8.0 after having lost 5 or 6 of their last 7 games and viable bets here at home tonight  behind their top tier goaltender John Gibson who  is coming off a 42-save effort against Boston and now owns a  2.84 goals-against average and .920 save percentage on the season.

Play on the Anaheim Ducks to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The reigning Presidents' Trophy winners Washington come  home from a two-game road trip that saw them lose by scores of 6-3 in Nashville and 6-2 in Colorado. Top tier teams like this don't usually take well to being embarrassed and I'm betting they come out here with their hair on fire looking for quick redemption. I now their competition the Wild , have won for straight but their expected starting goalie, Dubnyk,  , has struggled against Washington, posting a 2-4-1 mark with a 3.61 goals against average and a .879 save percentage and is fade material here this evening.

Wild are 1-4 in their last 5 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.
WASHINGTON is 18-5 ATS L/23 after 2 or more consecutive losses and 13-3 ATS L/16 after allowing 5 goals or more .Capitals are 20-7 in their last 27 games following a loss of 3 or more goals.Wild are 0-5 in the last 5 meetings and are 0-4 in their L/5 visits here.

Washington has won four in a row at Capital One Arena and get the nod again.

NHL Road underdogs of +100 to +200 against the money line like the WILD- off 2 or more consecutive home wins against opponent off a road blowout loss by 3 goals or more are 4-33  L/5 seasons for a go against conversion rate of 89% for bettors.

Play on the Washington Capitals to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

This matchup between the visiting NY Islanders and their hosts the TB Lightning  features two of the top three scoring teams in the league. TB is averaging 4.00 goals per game and  scored five or more goals 9 times this season, including in four of the past five games. Three times the Lightning have  smacked down   6 goals , including the last time out in a 6-1 victory against Dallas on Thursday.The Islanders, meanwhile, have scored the third-most goals in the league at 65 and are averaging the second-most goals in the league at 3.61 per game. New York scored five or more goals eight different times in 18 tilts and are coming off a shootout against Carolina in which the Islanders scored six goals.

NY ISLANDERS are 6-0 OVER l/6 against good offensive teams - scoring 2.85+ goals/game this season with a combined average of 8.8 gpg going on the score board.

NHL team against the total NYI - after successfully covering the spread in 2 or more consecutive games against opponent after successfully covering the spread in 5 or more consecutive games are 52-19 over the L/5 seasons for a 73% conversion rate of 72% for bettors.

Play on the OVER 1 unit reg selection

Washington got beat up on in their last game against Nashville, by a 6-3 count after having won 5 of their previous 6 games. But now I'm betting on a bounce back effort from Ovechkin and company . It must be noted that the Capitals have won 12 of their last 14 games after allowing five or more goals in the previous contest and have owned the Colorado Avalanche of late winning 6 straight meetings. Braden Holtby (10-4-0, 2.68 goals-against average, .918 save percentage) is expected to start after stopping 19 of 25 shots and getting pulled after two periods Tuesday. That after allowing a total of six goals in 123 shots in his previous four starts.
Holtby a quality goalie will be out to make amends vs a Colorado team that is 0-2-1 in its last three games.

WASHINGTON is 13-2 ATS after allowing 5 goals or more over winning on the moneyline by an average of 1.8 gpg. Capitals are 20-6 in their last 26 games following a loss of 3 or more goals.Capitals are 13-4 in their last 17 vs. Central.Avalanche are 9-24 in their last 33 vs. a team with a winning record.

Play on the Washington Capitals to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The ducks and Bruins both enter this game banged up with a boatload full of injuries.The Bruins dressed five rookies against Toronto on Saturday and will likely do the same against the Ducks.  Anaheim always because of their physical style seem like they play short handed on a consistent basis, but because of a good system, and a pipeline of talent that fits into their style of play seem to always find ways to win fairly consistently. Anaheim coach Randy Carlyle also  HAS  had two days to prepare for the Bruins, and I'm betting his team will be ready.

BOSTON is 3-8 ATS  against good offensive teams - averaging 29.5+ shots on goal per game this season and 4-9 ATS  L/13 against poor defensive teams - opponents average 29.5+ shots on goal this season.ANAHEIM is 7-0 ATS  l/7 after failing to cover 5 or 6 of their last 7 against the spread .Bruins are 0-7 in the last 7 meetings and 0-4 L/4 meetings in Anaheim.

Play on Anaheim to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

 The NYR have outscored their opposition  26-16 during its  6 game win streak. A explosive offensive attack has powered the Rangers, who have scored at least four goals in seven of their past eight contests, and should continue to streak here as they enter this game on fresh legs on three days rest. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are at the opposite end of the proverbial performance spectrum, and suffering through 3 losses in their L/4 games, with the offense continuing to be surprisingly ineffective and or consistent.

NY RANGERS are 9-1 ATS  L/10 when playing against a marginal losing team (Win Pct. 40% to 49%) in the first half of the season dating back to last season.NY RANGERS are 9-1 ATS   in road games after 3 or more consecutive overs.Rangers are 25-9 in their last 34 vs. Western Conference.Road team is 6-0 in the last 6 meetings with the Rangers winning 4 straight here in Chitown.

New York goaltender Henrik Lundqvist   has posted an 8-4-2 record with a 2.92 GAA and .905 save percentage this season. In 10 career games against Chicago, he is 6-2-2 with a 2.19 GAA.

Play on the NY Rangers to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

 The Nashville  Predators (9-5-2)  enter this game against visiting Washington forming into top gear as is evident by having won its last four games, scoring 16 goals ( 4gpg). Its power play is one of the top 10 in the NHL and also firing on all cylinders. Add to that their veteran goalie  Pekka Rinne (8-2-2, 2.23, .929), is  also red hot and you have a Preds team worth backing as home favs. Note: Nashville is 4-1-1 at home this season, and have once of the most energetic arenas in the league, which automatically gives the Preds and edge against all comers. Predators are 21-7 in their last 28 home games. I know the Caps have also been hot , after winning their 5th game in 6th tries, but the difference maker will be home ice advantage.

Capitals are 1-4 in the last 5 meetings in Nashville.Home team is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings.

NASHVILLE is 13-3 ATS  L/16 in home games off a home win. which happened in a victory vs defending Stanley Cup Champs  Pittsburgh by a 5-4 count in OT.

NHL Road underdogs of +100 to +150 against the money line like the Capitals - after allowing 1 goal or less in 2 straight games against opponent after scoring 3 goals or more in 2 straight games are 40-106 dating back 20 seasons for a go against conversion rate of 73% for bettors on the blind.

Play on the Nashville Preds to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Stars, are in top form and  have won four of their last six contests after recording  a 5-0 victory over a strong looking New York Islanders group on Friday. Carolina despite of finding ways to procure points, are a team, that is not operating at 100% efficiency and they have a lot of issues that if they remain persistent could hamper their play offs hopes as this season progresses. Notably their  power play, which is near the bottom of the league at 12.2 percent, and  0-for-14 run over the last five games and has  just once goal in the last 10 contests. The Stars are rolling right now, and offer us good moneyline value to pull off a win vs a side they matchup well against and have beaten 6 straight times. Note: This is Carolinas 3rd game in 4 nights,. In the recent past the Canes are just 1-4 in their last 5 in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation.

Dallas G Ben Bishop, the expected Canes starter between the pipes tonight, is 8-1-1 with a 1.89 goals-against average and .942 save percentage against the Hurricanes.

Stars are 5-0 in their last 5 vs. Metropolitan.Hurricanes are 0-5 in their last 5 vs. Central.

Play on the Dallas Starts to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

NJ enters this game against the Panthers starting to struggle after a strong start to their season. That's  not a good omen for their chances tonight against a team despite of under performing themselves ,matches up well against them. The  visiting Panthers'  swept the three-game season series against the Devils in 2016-17 and won five of the last six games between the clubs and have an edge tonight, as they enter this tilt with momentum. Last time out Florida's , Roberto Luongo stopped 24 of 25 shots  and got them a  4-1 win vs Buffalo. Note:FLORIDA is 10-2 ATS L/12  in road games off a road win by 2 goals or more.  Meanwhile, the Devils, are on a 4 game losing streak, and are 10-23 L/33 at home and are fade material in this spot according to my cross reference power rankings matchups stats.

Play on the Florida Panthers to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

TB and LA are two heavy weights in the NHL , and  as is usually the case when the big boys go head to head, conservative , mistake free hockey is of paramount importance, and both coaches game plans will center around this type of disciplined concept. The Kings boast the NHL top D, and will give the explosive Bolts all they can handle. On the flipside, LAs improved offense will not be overly aggressive against a dangerous side, that can respond quickly in transition and will also face the prospect of going against a former King goalie , Peter Budaj, who went 27-20-3 with a 2.12 goals-against average with the Kings last season before being traded,  . I'm sure  new  Lightning G Budaj will be primed to play vs his former team mates and will feel comfortable in this environment if he plays( which is expected).  All in all Im expecting a physical defensive post season style of play tonight. Note: A total of 8 goals were scored in last seasons two meetings in this series.

Under is 8-3-1 in Lightning last 12 vs. Pacific.Under is 18-7-5 in Kings last 30 vs. Eastern Conference.Under is 4-1 in Kings last 5 vs. Atlantic.

The L/3  games in this series here in LA went under the set total.

Play UNDER 1 unit reg selection

The Habs after a slow start to their campaign, are 3-0 in their L3 games, but I'm still not sold on them, with future HOF goalie Price injured, despite of the accolades being heaped on rookie goaltender Lindgren who is 5-0 in his young career. Meanwhile, visiting  Minnesota   tonight have lost  three straight, including a 4-2 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday night. These teams are currently on different spectrums of production. However, according to my own cross reference matchup rankings the Wild matchup very well vs Les Canadiens.  Something I also track is a teams conditioning and how they perform on a heavy schedule. My conclusion to this is that the Wild are one of the best conditioned teams in hockey, and are a perfect 4-0 after playing 4 games in 6 days and have the advantage tonight on a value moneyline.

Wild are 14-6 in their last 20 vs. Atlantic.Canadiens are 3-8 in their last 11 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game.Canadiens are 9-21 in their last 30 vs. Central. Wild have won 6 straight meetings and are 2-0 in their L/2 visits to Quebec.

Play on the Minnesota Wild to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Chicago Blackhawks are no longer a NHL team that is feared by their opponents, especially when they are on the road as is evident by their 3-9 away record dating back to last season.The Blackhawks are coming off   2-0 shutout loss to the Montreal Canadiens on Sunday and have just two goals in their last two games. That's not a good omen for the Blackhawks as they are 3-13 in their last 16 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game. I know the Flyers have not been performing all that well either, but with 4 days rest I expect they will very recharged and come at the BHs with a full head of steam, making them viable betting options on the moneyline tonight.

Blackhawks are 1-15 in the last 16 meetings in Philadelphia and have lost 13 straight regular season games here.

Play on the Philadelphia Flyers on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

Toronto is getting a lot of love from the media this season, because of an explosive offense, but their Achilles heel remains a defense that can be best described as erratic . Because the Leafs D, jumps into the attack so often off  of transition,, they often get caught with their proverbial pants down,  especially  in turn over situations ,which makes them vulnerable against a team like the Wild. Actually according to my cross reference power rankings, the Wild are  a team that matches up very well vs the Leafs, and offer up very good moneyline value tonight.  Both teams are currently not operating with a full head of steam of late, but after watching the Buds struggle and look tired  against expansion Vegas on Monday night barely pulling off the win, I'm betting their heavy schedule will effect them in this spot.  Note:TORONTO is 3-11 ATS   off a close home win by 1 goal and 8-21 ATS   when playing 6 or more games in 10 days

MINNESOTA is 16-3 ATS L/19 when playing against a team with a winning record in the first half of the season over the last 2 seasons and 7-1 ATS   when playing against a marginal winning team (Win Pct. 51% to 60%) in the first half of the season. Wild are 9-4 in their last 13 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.Wild are 14-5 in their last 19 vs. Atlantic.Wild are 7-0 in the last 7 meetings.

Play on the Wild to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Islanders are currently playing some of their best hockey of the young season, behind an explosive offensive lineup lead by their captain John Tavares. The Isles have punished goalies and defenses of late, scoring 6 gaols in 3 of their L/4 games,  and have averaged 5 gpg in their L/7 games overall, while winning 6 of their L/8 tilts overall.  Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers, a team that depends way to much on their young super star McDavid to lead the way, are in offensive funk, scoring 2 goals or less in 6 of their L/8 games. and have lost 7 of their L/10 games. Needless to say these teams are currently operating at the opposite end of the proverbial performance spectrum. It must also be noted that the Oilers lost both meetings to the Isles last season with McDavid completely held off the scoring sheet. This years version of the Islanders is better/faster than last seasons group, and are playing a completely different aggressive  system under new HC Doug Weight, and matchup very well against the Oilers.

 NYI owns a  9-0-1 L/10 record at home vs Edmonton , with the only loss coming via shootout (4-3).

EDMONTON  dating back to last season has not performed well against these type of teams, going just 3-14 ATS  L/17 against explosive offensive teams - scoring 3+ goals/game.

NHL Road underdogs against the money line like the Oilers - after allowing 3 goals or more 4 straight games against opponent after scoring 3 goals or more in 5 straight games are 26-87 SU for a go against conversion rate of 77% for bettors dating back 20 seasons.

Play on the NY Islanders to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Stars enter this home game against Winnipeg off a complete game 5-1 effort vs the Sabres last time out. But the Stars have not been good bets after games like this as  DALLAS is just  2-9 ATS  L/11 in home games after allowing 1 goal or less in their previous game and 3-11 ATS   off a home win scoring 4 or more goals  and 1-9 ATS  after a blowout win by 3 goals or more.Stars are also 2-9 in their last 11 after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game. Now enters the Winnipeg Jets a team that matches up well against Dallas, and just beat them last week , which was their 5th straight win in this series. I'm betting the Stars will be in a letdown situation after all the energy they exerted last time out, in what the players  thought was a 60 minute effort. QUOTE: “I feel like this was a really good team game, probably the best 60 minutes we’ve played so far this year,” Dallas defenseman John Klingberg . END QUOTE: Ice hockey is a grueling high energy game, and the Stars legs won't be as fresh as they need them to be vs a side that knows how to beat them.

Jets are 5-0 in their last 5 vs. Western Conference.Jets are 22-8 in their last 30 vs. Central.Jets are 10-4 in their last 14 vs. a team with a winning record.Jets are 11-1 in their last 12 games playing on 1 days rest.Stars are 7-21 in their last 28 vs. Central.Stars are 10-24 in their last 34 vs. a team with a winning record.Jets are 5-0 in the last 5 meetings.

Play on the Winnipeg Jets to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

It would not have mattered which starting goalie was between the pipes  tonight for the Habs or the Blackhawks, as Montreal is now on tired legs as they finish up a four game road trip and playing on back to back nights.  I believe the Chicago Blackhawks are the superior of the two sides here in Chicago, no matter what the circumstances , however, and despite of having to lay some chalk I like my calculated odds of notching a win. Both  goalies for Les Canadiens have been less then reliable, and the team as hole, is not in a flow is their lack of depth at center. Yes, they have gone 2-1 in their first three games of their current road trip , but they have looked far from over whelming, and were lucky to get the come from behind win vs Winnipeg last night, exerting a great deal of energy in the process.  Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are off back to back shutout wins, and are beginning to peak and a viable team to back in this spot play.

Canadiens are 1-4 in their last 5 in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation.Canadiens are 0-7 in the last 7 meetings in Chicago and 0-8 L/8 overall in this series.Canadiens are 8-21 in their last 29 vs. Central.Blackhawks are 61-17 in their last 78 vs. a team with a winning % below .400.

Play on the Chicago Blackhawks to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Leafs enter this game on tired legs, as they play their 3rd road game in 5days and maybe a little bit more lethargic than usual, against a team that likes to play a type of trap system that makes flow and transition difficult for their opposition. The Blues know that the Leafs are still a dangerous offensive force even when tired, so I'm betting they pay special attention to giveaways tonight, and base most of their attacks in transition. Look for an extremely conservative/disciplined effort tonight at home for the Blues, and a total score that remains on the low side of the number.

ST LOUIS is 28-12 UNDER  L/40  in home games against excellent power play teams - scoring on  19% or more of their chances combining on a average of 4.7 gpg.

Under is 12-4 in Maple Leafs last 16 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 days situation.Under is 20-5-4 in Blues last 29 games playing on 1 days rest.Under is 4-1-2 in the last 7 meetings in St. Louis.

NHL Road teams where the total is 6 or more like the Leafs - 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 51-11 L/21 seasons for a 83% conversion rate for bettors.

Play UNDER 1 unit reg selection

The Washington Capitals after last years great regular season, and than deflating loss to eventual Stanley Cup Champion Penguins, as well as some off seasons changes, has the team playing with a  hang over in the early part of this season. The core of a very good Capitals teams remains, as does super star Ovechkin, and they are still a dangerous team, and must no be underestimated against a foe like the Bruins on a value line. Meanwhile, the Bruins, are side that is still trying to find an identity and no longer instill confidence in me because of their obvious depth issues behind a offense that has scored 2 or less goals in 5 of their L/10 games. Because of their lack of a consistent attack the Beantown boys remain bad bets, even against a team like the Caps who are having some problems keeping the puck out of the net this season. Note: BOSTON is 3-7 ATS  L/10  in home games against lower tier defensive teams - allowing 3+ goals/game .

BOSTON is 8-16 ATS   in home games off a home win over the last few seasons.

Capitals are 10-3 in their last 13 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.Bruins are 0-5 in their last 5 games playing on 1 days rest.Bruins are 5-13 in their last 18 vs. Metropolitan.Capitals are 42-14 in their last 56 games playing on 1 days rest.Capitals are 56-18 in their last 74 vs. Atlantic.Capitals are 6-0 ATS/SU L/6 overall meetings and  4-0 in the last 4 meetings in Boston.

Play on the Washington Capitals to win on the moneyline 1unit reg selection

This is a game involving two teams that are struggling to play consistent hockey as can be seen by their records. The Sabres are currently operating at a higher level and  on paper may look to be the superior side between these bottom feeders, but according to my power rankings and cross reference matchup stats, the Coyotes, match up well against the Sabres on home ice and are viable bets to get the win  with goalie Antti Raanta now healthy and expected to start tonight after being cleared to play. Goaltending has been Arizona's Achilles heel thus far, and Raanta will shore things up. Add to that the ugly  Coyotes  are desperate and the last NHL team without a home victory this season and you have a formula for an extremely motivated effort from the host. 

Arizona's HC Rick Tochett is on the hot seat, and with  this game being looked at by team brass as a winnable affair,  he better have his group hitting on all cylinders tonight, or he'll be off the hot seat and on his way out the door.  With that said, I'll recommend we take the Coyotes on the moneyline.

Sabres are 1-5 in their last 6 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400.Sabres are 1-5 in their last 6 vs. Pacific.BUFFALO is 7-25 ATS  L/32  in road games against good offensive teams - averaging 29.5+ shots on goal per game.

NHL Home Teams when the money line is -100 to -150  like Arizona - after having lost 4 of their last 5 games, in a game involving two lower tier teams (30% or less) in the first half of the season are 28-2 SU L/20 seasons for a 93% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on the Arizona Coyotes to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

When the season began many people thought the Canucks would not do well this season, and despite of some decent results early on in their campaign I'm still not sold on them and do expect them to begin to falter . Meanwhile, NJ has also done well with low expectations  also attached to  them in this seasons NHL futures markets. But my own early season assessments , were that they would not be as bad as expected .With that said, and now in a battle  between these two upstarts I'm going to put my opinion on the line by backing what I believe to be the superior overall side on a underdog value line worth taking. ( NJ Devils)

Devils are 4-0 in their last 4 road games.NEW JERSEY is 6-1 ATS  L/7 against good offensive teams - averaging 29.5+ shots on goal per game this season.VANCOUVER is 9-25 ATS L/34  in home games off a home loss . NJ has won the L/5 meetings in this series.

VANCOUVER is 3-16 ATS  L/19  in home games when playing against a team with a winning record.

Play on the NJ Devils to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Blues enter this game having gone 5-0-1 in their last six games 4-0 at home and are 9-2-1 for the season, while the Kings are 9-1-1 and have won their last three games, all on the road. Needless to say both teams are in red hot form. The difference maker I am betting tonight comes, via the fresher legs of the home side, as compared to the visitors who , will be wrapping up a six-game road trip  on tired legs.

LOS ANGELES is 1-7 ATS  L/8 after allowing 1 goal or less in 2 straight games

Looks like the Kings suffer from the: I don't like Mondays " syndrome. AKA UK band - Boom Town Rats 1979. .....Kings are 1-10 in their last 11 Monday games

Kings are 2-5 in their last 7 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.Blues are 6-0 in their last 6 home games dating back to last season .Blues are 6-2 in their last 8 vs. Pacific. Kings are 1-4 in the last 5 meetings.

Play on the St.Louis Blues to win on the money-line 1 unit reg selection

The Montreal Canadians after a very slow start to their season, have won 2 of their L/3 games, and are riding a little momentum, coming in to this confrontation against the banged up Ottawa Senators. I know the Sens have done well considering all their injuries, to some of their best players,  i.e defenseman Erik Karlsson, Kyle Turris, Bobby Ryan and Zack Smith, but I'm betting  their luck will eventually run out, and I'm betting the downturn starts tonight. I see the biggest problems for Ottawa is on  D, where they have allowed an average of 4 gpg in their  L/5 tilts, and 9 goals in their L/2 in wide open undisciplined hockey. They have scored 3 goals on offense in back to back games but have had a ugly recent history after this kind of production as OTTAWA is 1-9 ATS L/10 after 2 straight games where both teams scored 3 goals or more losing these games by an average of 2 gpg and are just  4-16 ATS  L/20 in home games after scoring 3 goals or more in 2 straight games.

Canadiens are 10-4 in their last 14 vs. Atlantic.Senators are 2-5 in their last 7 vs. Eastern Conference.Senators are 2-5 in their last 7 home games.

Play on the Habs to bring home the dough on the moneyline

Tampa Bay is off to the best start in franchise history at 9-1-1 and set a franchise record with six consecutive home victories to start the season following Thursday's win over Detroit . Tonight I'm going to back them here again with momentum on their sides vs a struggling Anaheim Ducks team that is off a ugly blowout loss to Florida last time  out allowing 8 goals. This Bolts team has a lot of chemistry and are currently playing with a lot of flow. Goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy is also red hot and  on a personal eight-game winning streak. In his past six starts, Vasilevskiy has allowed just seven goals while allowing two or fewer in all six games he has started.

Meanwhile, the Ducks  are dealing with a boatload full of  injuries ie Sami Vatanen, Ryan Kesler, Ryan Miller and top Dman Cam Fowler, Anaheim also lost veteran defenseman Kevin Bieksa, who was placed on injured reserve and missed his first game on Thursday. Needless to say they are at a disadvantage. I know after being embarrassed last time out that Anaheim will get down and dirty and try to intimidate the Lightning here tonight, as is usually the case with this physical team, but I'm betting that won't be enough to get them a victory.

TB is 8-0-5 in the last 13 meetings with the Ducks.Lightning are 10-1 in their last 11 home games dating back to last season.Lightning are 8-0 in their last 8 vs. a team with a losing record.Ducks are 0-5 in the last 5 meetings in Tampa Bay.

Play on TB Lightning to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

Last night Carolina avoided a three-game losing streak  by recording  a 6-3 victory at Toronto. However, tonight on tired legs I'm betting they will be at a disadvantage vs a strong St.Louis Blues team that has gone 3-0-1 in their L/4 contests and on a days rest.

Blues are 6-0 in their last 6 vs. Metropolitan.Blues are 23-7 in their last 30 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400.Hurricanes are 1-5 in their last 6 home games.Road team is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings.

ST LOUIS is 15-2 ATS  L/17  in road games after a blowout win by 3 goals or more and is 10-1 ATS  L/11  in road games after scoring 5 goals or more in their previous game and  is 6-0 ATS   in road games off a home blowout win by 3 goals with the average score of 3.3 to 1.8 going on the scoreboard favoring the Blues. ( The Blues took out Calgary last time out by a 5-2 count).

    Play on the St.Louis Blues to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Red Wings have been playing poorly of late and have lost their L/5 games, while their hosts the Bolts, have won 7 of their L/8 with their L/2 coming by 7-1 and 5-1 blowouts vs Pittsburgh and Carolina at home. Both teams are obviously operating at the proverbial opposite end of the performance spectrum. With that said,,  and considering how dominate the Lightning have been at home in this series , I am recommending we lay the lumber on the puck-line and take TB.

Lightning are 7-0 in their last 7 home games overall

.DETROIT is 0-9 ATS  L/9 off a close road loss by 1 goal losing by an average of 2.3 gpg game ( 4.1 to 1.8)

My own projections estimate that TB will score 4 goals per game or more. (TAMPA BAY is 19-4 ATS  when they score 4 goals)-winning  by an average of 1.7 gpg)

TAMPA BAY is 8-0 SU/ATS against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons at home.

Play on the TB Lightning -1.5 on the puckline 1 unit reg selection

The Anaheim Might Ducks are well rested but have been banged and dealing with injuries up to start their season, but tonight will get key cog Ryan Getzlaf back in their lineup , which I'm betting helps their sagging power play. They did lose cam Fowler one of their top Dmen, but they will get back another solid defenseman Hampus Lindholm (shoulder) who is expected to make his season debut Tuesday night as well as Defenseman Sami Vatanen , which will not put them at a disadvantage.  Meanwhile, Philadelphia lost their top D man last time out, Andrew MacDonald , and will be replaced by a rookie or AHL players and that's not a good omen for the Flyers here even though their at home. It must be noted that the Ducks, looked solid in a recent 5-2 win vs the Habs at home, and with the consistent stellar play of goaltender John Gibson (3-2-1, 2.55 goals-against average, .932 save percentage) the Ducks  look like solid underdog options tonight. Flyers expected starting goalie Elliot owns a sub par .897 SV % on the season!

ANAHEIM is 41-19 ATS  L/60 when playing only their 2nd game in 5 days .Ducks are 6-1 in their last 7 games playing on 3 or more days rest.Ducks are 6-0 in the last 6 meetings in Philadelphia.

Play on the Anaheim Ducks to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

Dallas started their season slowly going 0-2-0 start as their new  new personnel looked they needed time to  jell with their teammates. But now the positive chemistry is building behind the likes of the Stars  new top line, which features Benn, Seguin and newcomer Alexander Radulov. Talk about explosive looking. This trio is dangerous and will be hard to stop by a Carolina team , that despite of operating a top tier level of hockey at the moment,  will be on tired legs as they play their 4th straight road game.

Dallas expected starting  goaltender Ben Bishop,  ranks seventh in the NHL with a 1.93 goals-against-average and is tied for third with four  wins.

CAROLINA is 4-18 ATS  L/22  in road games when playing against a team with a winning record .CAROLINA is 8-21 ATS  L/28 off a road win which they registered last time out.

Hurricanes are 17-35 in their last 52 road games.Stars are 5-1 in their last 6 vs. Metropolitan.Hurricanes are 1-11-1 in the last 13 meetings in Dallas.Hurricanes are 0-5 in the last 5 meetings.

Play on the Dallas Stars to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The NJ Devils are playing some great hockey, but I'm not keen on them overall, and feel like they are over achieving by quite a bit , having won 6 of their first 7 games including  a5-4 OT win last night vs Ottawa. You have to remember this is a team that finished 29th in the league last year, and really are not that upgraded over last season. Meanwhile San Jose despite of starting slowly this season, is at least on paper a superior side, with momentum on their sides after finishing a 5 game home stand with a 5-2 win vs the Montreal Canadians. With that said ,I feel we have value here backing them in this spot vs a tired Devils  side that are 1-6 in their last 7 games playing on no rest and 0-5 in their L/5 meetings at home in this series.

The Sharks have allowed just one goal in their last 20 short-handed situations.

Devils are 4-13 in their last 17 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.Devils are 0-5 in their last 5 when their opponent scores 5 goals or more in their previous game.

Play on the San Jose Sharks  to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Vegas Knights have not played like an expansion team early on this season, winning 4 of 5 games, but I'm betting tonight they come back down to earth, as their starting goalie Marc-Andre Fleury is out with a injury. Tonight instead the Knights will start Subban, who was claimed off waivers from the Bruins on Oct. 3, and making just the third start of his NHL career after compiling a 0-2 record and a bloated 5.82 goals-against average with the Bruins. Meanwhile, the Sabres despite of starting slow, got their first win against banged up Anaheim, on Sunday night, and now on a days rest should be ready to come out with momentum on their sides against the Knights in this tilt.

Note: Vegas is just 1-for-21 on the power play this season. Not a good omen for this team going forward.

NHL Road Teams when the money line is -100 to -150 like the Sabres - after having lost 4 of their last 5 games against opponent after having won 2 of their last 3 games are 40-12 L/5 seasons for a 77% conversion rate for bettors.

Play on the Buffalo Sabres to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

It doesn't matter how good or how bad each team is currently playing, when these sides have met in the past  the Montreal Canadians have almost always been up to task, and have been a curse to the Toronto Maple Leafs, especially if Habs star goalie  Price is between the pipes.  Price has owned the Leafs in his career as is evident by a  11-0-0  career record with one shutout and a stingy 1.88 goals-against average in his last 11 starts versus Toronto. Tonight the Leafs behind their  high octane offense will come out swinging but Price I'm betting will be their nemesis again . On the flipside, the Leafs lackluster defense, will finally give the Les Canadien a chance to break out of a early season offensive funk and help them notch a win. Note:Maple Leafs goaltender Fredrik Anderson, owns a 1-3-1 record against the Habs.Toronto has allowed 16 goals in four games, with goaltender Frederik Andersen looking like he is wearing swiss cheese pads. His  save percentage is now a lowly .871.

Maple Leafs are 1-4 in their last 5 vs. Eastern Conference.Maple Leafs are 6-15 in their last 21 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400.Canadiens are 9-3 in their last 12 vs. Atlantic.Maple Leafs are 0-8 in the last 8 meetings in Montreal.

Play on the Montreal Canadians to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

NJ enters this game off a big win vs the Toronto Maple Leafs last time out by a 6-3 count and will now be in a let down spot, vs a hungry and motivated Washington Capitals team looking to avoid a third straight loss.Washington went 3-0-1 against the Devils, last season allowing them to a combined five goals in the four head to head tilts. With that said, look for Capitals super star Alex Ovechkin , 8 g in 4 games to be the catalyst behind a road win vs a side that they matchup very well against.

Devils are 4-9 in their last 13 games following a win.Devils are 7-19 in their last 26 home games.Devils are 1-5 in their last 6 vs. Metropolitan.Capitals are 11-4 in their last 15 road games.Capitals are 40-14 in their last 54 games playing on 1 days rest.

Capitals are 6-0 in the last 6 meetings in New Jersey.Capitals are 10-1 in the last 11 meetings.

Play on the Washington Capitals to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Jets enter this game well rested after two days off, and should be primed to take down a Vancouver side that despite of being 1-1 on the season, is a team I have pegged for decline in 2017-18, . The Canucks  depend way to much on a pair  of  aging 36 year old Sedin brothers  and as the team try's to fit new players in slowly, they will struggle , and  currently do not matchup well vs the Winnipeg Jets team that has a lot of firepower ie (Mark Scheifele, Nikolaj Ehlers, Blake Wheeler and Patrick Laine). That firepower was on display in their last game against a very good Edmonton Oilers squad as visitors winning a 5-2 decision deep in the heart of Alberta as +140 dogs. Tonight as roach chalk, they once again look like a viable investment option on the moneyline.

My projections estimate that Winnipeg will score three or more goals tonight. VANCOUVER is 9-33 ATS  when they allow 3 goals or more over the last few seasons.

Note: The Canucks have only managed one power-play goal on 11 extra-man chances this season, and I'm betting that will be their demise tonight and going forward.

Canucks are 1-10 in their last 11 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.Canucks are 5-16 in their last 21 home games.

VANCOUVER is 9-23 ATS  in home games off a home loss over the last few seasons.

Jets are 6-0 in their last 6 games following a win.Jets are 5-1 in their last 6 vs. Western Conference.Jets are 8-2 in their last 10 overall.

NHL Home underdogs of +100 to +150 against the money line lie the Canucks- off a close home loss by 1 goal, with a winning percentage of between 45-55% on the season in the first half of the season are just 14-51 during the last 20 seasons, for a go against conversion rate of 79% for bettors.

Play on Winnipeg to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Montreal Canadiens (1-2-0) have started their season struggling on offense and have scored four goals (one at even strength) in regulation and overtime during their three-game road trip . They scored one goal total in their past two games, a 6-1 loss to the Washington Capitals on Saturday and a 2-0 loss to the New York Rangers on Sunday. Needless to say their are offensive issues in the Habs camp as was the case most of last season. note: The Canadiens entered Monday one of six teams yet to score a power-play goal. Add to that the Habs are playing their 3rd game in 4 nights, and their are at a disadvantage from a few different perspectives.  Canadiens are just  4-11 in their last 15 in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation and are 0-4 in their last 4 games playing on 1 days rest.Meanwhile ,the Blackhawks (2-0-1) have scored 18 goals in three games, one behind the Maple Leafs for most in the NHL. Chicago is coming off a 4-3 overtime loss to Toronto on Monday, but are well prepared and conditioned to bounce back , despite of playing last night and 3 games in the last 4 days. Blackhawks are 8-1 in their last 9 in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation. Blackhawks are 36-15 in their last 51 games following OT on the previous day.

The Blackhawks have had the Habs number of late winning 7 straight meetings, and with both teams operating at the proverbial opposite end of the performance spectrum at the moment it will be easy decision to back the Hawks here as road dogs.

Play on the Chicago Blackhawks on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Calgary Flames do battle with their long time nemesis the Anaheim Ducks this Monday night. The Flames have had a horrendous ride against the Ducks , especially when visiting California as they have lost a record setting 29 times here. Tonight the lines-makers are telling us that the Ducks should once again win, despite of being banged up. I know this streak will eventually come to an end, some day , maybe even tonight, but I'll continue to ride this gravy train till it crashes and burns. With that said, and according to Einstein, " Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results is a sign of insanity." 

I agree with Einstein, to an extent,  but must also point out that  from a betting perspective and in life all good and bad runs must eventually come to end. But timing it can sometimes prove difficult. So for now on what I perceive to a value money-line opportunity, I'll back the physically intimidating Ducks to make it 30 straight home victories in this series.

Flames are 0-6 in their last 6 vs. Pacific.

Ducks are 20-9 in their last 29 vs. Western Conference.Ducks are 40-16 in their last 56 vs. Pacific.Flames are 0-29 in the last 29 meetings in Anaheim.

Play on the Anaheim Ducks to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Avalanche,(1-1-0)   opened the season with a 4-2 win over the Rangers in New York an than lost  a 4-1 decision at New Jersey on Saturday night despite of out shooting (41-39) and in my opinion out playing the Devils. I know not a lot is expected from the Avs this season, but their not as bad as some of the pundits might think. With that said, I'm betting tonight against a Bruins (1-0) lineup dealing with some injuries and illnesses, and alot of youth in their lineup the Avs are a  viable underdog .

Boston injuries:  forwards Patrice Bergeron (lower body) and Austin Czarnik (illness) as well as defenseman Torey Krug (jaw). If any play they will be less than 100%.

Colorado has won 9 straight meetings here in Boston.Bruins are 1-5 in their last 6 home games.Boston has not won its first two games since the 2013-14 season.

Play on the Colorado Avs to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The NY Islanders started their current season losing a 5-0 decision to the Columbus Blue Jackets last night. The Islanders looked in disarray, early in the game and their starting goaltender Greiss had a bad outing, and was pulled in favor of Halak who will start tonight in Barclays in NYI home opener. Halak did not allow a goal in the third, and finished off last season in red hot form, and I'm betting will once again buoy his team to victory  vs a Buffalo Sabres team the Isles match up well against. Yes, I know the Isles might be on tired legs after playing last night, but the trip was short and the season young and being one of the best conditioned teams in the league they will be prepared to compete here and get redemption for the last nights debacle.

Islanders are 8-0 in their last 8 games following a loss of 3 or more goals.Islanders are 10-1 in their last 11 after allowing 5 goals or more in their previous game.Sabres are 0-4 in their last 4 when their opponent allows 5 goals or more in their previous game.

Note: Buffalo starting goalie Lehner has struggled against teams from the Metro Division as he has recorded a lowly 9-25 record along with a 3.11 GAA in his career.

Play on the NY Islanders to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Blackhawks after a very good campaign, in 2016- 2017 , were unceremoniously dumped from the play offs in speedy fashion by the Nashville Predators. Now this year the Hawks are on a search and destroy mission, and have the guns to get the job done. Tonight in their home opener I expect they will take advantage of a Penguins team on tired legs and  off a game last night that they had to work hard to tie with two late goals, and will now be in an emotional and physical letdown state after losing in OT. Note:Penguins are 3-12 in their last 15 games following OT on the previous day and have lost 4 of their L/5 with no rest.

The Pens have lost 6 straight to the Hawks and number 7 I'm betting comes tonight in Illinois.

Hawks will start G Crawford who has been nearly flawless vs the Pens in his career as is evident by  6-1-0 record along  with a .946 save percentage and a 1.65 goals-against average in seven   games.

Play on the Chicago Blackhawks to win on the moneyline 1 unit reg selection

The Maple Leafs and Jets officially drop the puck on a new year in hockey Oct. 4 .
The Leafs are built for speed and scoring and I'm betting they drag the Jets into a game that features a lot of back and forth transitional action that will result in a higher scoring affair. The linesmakers agree with my assessments , and with that said, I am recommending we take the over here .

 These teams have gone over in their last 4 meetings. Over is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings in Winnipeg

.In the Jets last 29 non conference games an average of 6.7 gpg were scored.

Key Notes from last season: Toronto converted an NHL second-best 23.8 percent of its power plays last season while Winnipeg had the league's fifth-worst penalty kill at 77.5 percent.

The Jets allowed 3.1 goals per game last season, which was fourth worst in the NHL.

Play OVER 1 unit reg selection