The Predators ran up three straight victories, winning 5 of 6 leading up to the All-star break.  While just .500 for the season, they have been much better in the second half.  Vegas is a good road team but has struggled in the second half, and are still a victim of the injury bug.  They continue to get solid goal-tending from Thompson, but are up against a rare game-altering net-minder in Saros, whose 92% save % has kept Nashville in many games.
With Mark Stone out and Eichel under-performing, the Knights' offense hasn't been strong lately, scoring just 5 goals in their four straight losses before the break.  Meanwhile the Preds are overachieving on offense, managing 13 goals against tough opposition in their three victories leading up to the Break.
I favor Saros and the Preds today, as were the odds-makers. I am not convinced that the Golden Knights will bounce back from their recent funk. Take Nashville, in a game that is now a pick-em, to win at home.

We're back in business on the ice after the all-star break. My best NHL bet for Monday is the 8-2 Lightning  roughing up the home side Panthers.  The Lightning aren't as good on the road as at home, but they have had good success when visiting the Panthers.  The Panthers are just 5-5 in recent games and are missing both of their top goalies.  Journeyman goalie Lyon will likely be in net again.  He has started 6 straight games, and has been better expected, but he'll face Tampa's potent top 4 offense and top 3 PK.  The Panthers can put the puck in the net but their defense and PK has been suspect irregardless of whoever has tended the net this season. Lyon will face a ton of shots again.  Vasilevsky will start for the Lightning.  He has been super-sharp in his last couple of games, and is a winning machine again this season.

The favorite usually wins when these two State rivals face off.  The Lightning are definitely the better team this season, and their goalie superiority is the clincher.  Take the Lightning to strike again on the road.

The Hurricanes have won 6 straight, averaging over 4 goals a game in those wins , which is a step up on their 3.3 goal season's average.  They are on  back to back game tonight, but have a solid record in this situation.  The Hurricanes are an exceptional road team, facing a Sabres team that is below .500 at home.  Carolina is very good on defense and on the PK, and especially good at limiting shots.  They will need to be , since the Sabres are tops in the league on offense.

The Sabres are 5-1 in recent action, and while their offense is down slightly, they appear to be a little more defensively responsible, allowing 3 goals or less in their recent games.  Tage Thompson is day to day, and with the all star break just one day away, he will probably be rested.  It is a hit to the Sabres offense if he is MIA.

In spite of the Sabres being at home and better rested, I am wagering on the 'Canes  tonight.  Carolina is a very streaky team,  on a very solid run.  Raanta, likely starts tonight in net and he has three shutouts in his last 6 starts in spite of infrequent usage.  Take the Hurricanes to steal another road game.

These two divisional rivals meet up with both teams struggling in recent games.  The Jets are just 3 points out of first place but have lost 3 straight including a rare pair at home.  St. Louis is singing the blues this season.  They are just 4-6 L10 and have lost 4 straight, scoring just 8 goals and allowing 19.  The Jets have usually played a fine defensive style with the fifth-ranked defense and a very good PK.  In most of their recent games, Winnipeg has continued to shut down the opposition, but a very capable offense has not shown well.  The Blues are well below average on defense and offense at five-on-five, and just average on special teams.  They have some significant injuries as well.
The Jets and Blues goalies are long-time foes.  Hellebuyck has been playing much better than Binnington this year.  He was pulled after rare poor play, which will rankle.  After a couple of days off, look for the Jets and their goalie to pull it together on Monday.  Take the Jets to win on the puck line at -1 1/2. 

Boston, off a rare loss on Thursday, will be taking no prisoners tonight.  The Bruins are 8-2 in recent action and a very good road team.  The Bruins have a fine 1-2 combination; 1st in defense and PK, and 2nd in goals-scored.  Add in a 3rd-ranked haymaker of a power play and fine goal-tending, and they are a formidable opponent on any night.  The Panthers are a sub-.500 team this year with solid offense, but their defense is poor across the board. They've lost three straight on the road, including yesterday's late night game vs the Kings, and travel to meet the Bruins at home today. Very poor schedule planning..
Swayman is expected to start for the Bruins.  He has been very sharp in his last 5 appearances, with a .950+ save % in those starts.  The goalie situation is less clear for the Panthers with Bobrovsky out and Knight just back from the minors.
Boston is favored tonight, but I am actually surprised that this line is available. This is a very unfavorable situation for the Panthers. Take the Bruins to win.

After a poor performance against the lowly Blackhawks, Calgary travels to Seattle in a back to back situation.  The Flames are below .500 in January and barely over .500 on the road this year.  The Kraken are 7-3 in their last ten games, and have an extra day's rest after thumping the Canucks on Wednesday.  The Kraken have a very fine offense this year and have the edge over Calgary at five on five play.  Tonight's likely goalie Martin Jones has had some excellent outings lately and is 9-1 in January.

The Flames have had their way with Seattle in past meetings,  but Calgary is not the powerhouse, nor the road warriors of last year.  Look for a little pay-back as Seattle wins against a tired and travelling Flames team.

Anaheim has won two of their last three games, but they have been picking the low-hanging fruit, so to speak, win victories over Arizona and Columbus.  Their recent losses have all been by wide margins.  The Ducks are not good at all on the road, and have allowed more than 5 goals a game on average in their recent losses.  The Avs have won 6 straight, and have been particularly stingy in goals-allowed, with just 8 in total in those 6 games.  

The Ducks are 31st in goals scored and worst in the league in goals allowed.  Their PK is equally poor.  Goalie John Gibson shut out the Jackets, but otherwise has given up nearly 6 goals a game in recent appearances. The Avalanche offense has been slow to develop this year, but is starting to come, and certainly the potential is there.  Their power play is in the top ten, and the Ducks are one of the league's most penalized teams.

Look for another lopsided victory for the Avs tonight and take Colorado on the puck line (-1 1/2).

The Oilers have won six straight games, and are now just four points back of the Division-leading Golden Knights.  With a light schedule this week, the Oilers  face the Blue Jackets after three days rest.  Edmonton has scored 31 goals in their 6 games win streak. This recent surge is largely a reflection of very good secondary scoring behind the the stellar offensive duo of MCD and Draisaitl.

Columbus is 3-7 in their last ten games and has allowed an average of 4 goals a game in their last three.  They are a very poor team on the road this season, and are still not out of the woods as far as injuries go.  Columbus is 30th in goals-allowed and face a hard-charging Oilers team with a fine and improving offense and the top-ranked power play in the league.  Look for the favored Oilers to pad their win streak with  a one-sided victory against the Jackets.  Take the Oilers on the Puck line at -1 1/2. 10*!

The Islanders have struggled lately, winning just once in their last nine games.  They are generating very little offense and aren't as stingy as they have traditionally been.  Off an overtime road loss, the Leafs are just 5-5 lately, but they are dominant at home, going 17-3 in the Gardens this season.  They have won their last 4 straight games at home, allowing just 4 goals in those wins.  We've had a steady diet of unders from these two teams, not unexpected from two top 10 defenses.  As poor as the Isles have been, Sorokin, today's likely starter has continued to keep the score down. Samsonov has been very strong in the net for Toronto.

  The Leafs are very tough on defense, especially at home, and the two teams have a history of low scoring games when they meet.  Look for the Under trend to continue.

The Canucks are barely keeping their heads above the surface, with a disgruntled fan base and a ton of turmoil off the ice.  The team has among the worst goals-against avg and PK in the league, and even their scoring touch seems to have deserted them.  They are just 1-7 in recent games and 8-13 at home.  Tonight's game vs the Oilers is their second in two nights.

Meanwhile, the Oilers have won five straight games.  They are very good on the road this season, have a very strong offense, and are 4-0 when facing the Canucks in Vancouver. Skinner is starting for the Cnucks in Vancouver, likely against Spencer Martin for Vancouver.  Martin has not been up to the increased work load and lack of protection in front of him.  His recent save % is dismal.

Look for another big game from McD and Draisaiyl, who have been a scourge vs the Canucks.  Oilers will kick the Canucks while they are down, winning again on the road.  My only concern is Skinner, who hasn't played in a while and wasn't strong  in his last games. Otherwise this one could be lopsided.

The last team the 2-8 Canucks beat at home was the Avalanche.  Since then, the Avs have gone 4-2, and scored a ton of goals, especially in their last three games (17).  They are a solid road team and face a Canucks group that is struggling on and off the ice.  Considering their make-up, the Avs are surprisingly poor on offense this year, averaging just 3.1 goals a game, but they appear to be waking up lately.  They do have a better power play, and are a top ten defense.  The Canucks can put the puck in the net (3.4 goals/game), but their defense is a woeful 31st ranked, and they have the worst PK in the league.  It is hard to tell which net-minder will start for Vancouver, but both are usually exposed by poor defensive play. 

The Canucks have historically played well vs the Avs and have won both games so far this season.  Today's best bet is the Over, considering the Avalanches' recent scoring blitz and the Canucks' dependably poor defense and potent offense.

The Stars are doing the western swing this week and meet up with the Kings on Thursday night. The 6-4 Kings are a solid home team and are very well rested, playing just 2 games in the last week. Dallas, 4-3 L7, is normally very good on the road, but will play it's 3rd game in 4 nights.  The home team has won 5 straight in recent history.  The Stars have a firm statistical edge, but haven't been quite as overpowering lately.  They will likely start a seldom used Wedgewood in net.  He has been uneven when he has played this year.  The Kings will likely counter with Copely, who has been a pleasant surprise this year,  winning 10 of his last 12 starts.
Dallas lost to the cellar-swelling Sharks on Wednesday.  They've played a lot of hockey in the last few days and face much stiffer opposition on Thursday.  I will take the better rested Kings to win at home.

The Leafs haven't exactly come out of the Holiday break on fire, but they are very hard to beat at home.  The Panthers won on the road on Monday but that is not common; Florida struggles in back-to-backs and on the road this season.  Toronto has a top ten offense but also play a disciplined defensive style and are giving up just 2.6 goals a game.  Add solid goal tending, and they are a tough out .  The Panthers can match the Leafs on offense but Toronto has a considerable advantage on defense and special teams.

With Knight on the IL, Florida had to reach a bit, and dug up likely start Lyon in net, who hasn't played in the NHL this year.  Murray is expected in net for the Leafs.  He was beaten by the Bruins in his last start, but was admirable in his previous two appearances (.970 and .944. save %)

The Leafs have had a couple of days off to regroup, and Tuesday's game, against a tired Panthers team, is a fine opportunity to bounce back.  Take the Leafs to win at home.

Dallas, dynamite on the road, takes on a Golden Knights team that tends to struggle at home, just 2 games over .500 this season.  Stars' coach DeBoer will have his team especially motivated tonight, his first game back in Vegas after being fired by the club last season.  The Stars are 6-4, but off 2 straight close losses, are due for a rebound.  Vegas,  also 6-4, is still very depleted with injuries and faces a much healthier Stars team.  
Comparing offenses and defenses, the Stars have a decided edge, 7th in goals for and goals against, and 5th in PK and PP.  Vegas is just outside the top ten in all categories other than their solid 7th ranked PP.  Dallas has the edge in net as well.  The Knights' Thompson has lost 4 of his last 6 games.  Oettinger has been very good all season and brilliant in his last three games.
Dallas is an underdog today, somewhat surprising given the circumstances.  I believe it will be the Stars doing the firing today, on all cylinders, that is!  take the Dawg Stars to steal this one on the road.

The surprising Kraken are rolling on the road, taking on all comers and winning 6 straight.  They are now 15-4 in away games after shutting out the mighty Bruins 3-0.  We have seen plenty of goal production from Seattle lately, with 4 or more, and a high of 8, in six of seven games.

The Blackhawks have won three straight games, likely their best stretch this season, but that streak ends tonight.  Seattle has a top three offense and a solid defense while facing a very poor Blackhawks' defense and the league's worst goal scorers.

Seattle's net-minder Jones has shut out the last two teams he has faced.  Look for Seattle to continue with a hot hand tonight.  The Kraken to win on the puck line at -1 1/2.

The Devils are rested and on the road to face the Ducks today.  NJ has been dynamite on the road this season, 15-2 to date.  They've also been explosive in their last two appearances, knocking off the 'Canes and Rangers, and have scored 4 or more goals in 5 of 6 games.  The Ducks do play better in their own pond, but ares still just 8-12 at home.  They have been shelled in two straight home games, allowing 13 goals while scoring just 3!  This game is a mismatch.  New Jersey has a sixth ranked offense and fourth ranked defense against the Ducks "worst or close" defense, offense, PP and PK. Yikes! Can you spell Bedard?
 In net, Vanacek has been a fine edition in net for the Devils, giving them a steady presence in goal.  Gibson, who has had a very fine career in Anaheim, is posting his worst numbers ever, and has allowed 13 goals in his last 2 games. Don't blame him. He's been peppered with quality shots; absolutely a sitting duck... Take the resurgent Devils to win on the puck line at -1 1/2.

The embattled 4-6 Canucks are 0-2 on this road trip.  They can score but they can't hold a lead, allowing 12 goals and scoring 8 in their last two games.  They are 30th in goals against and worst in the league on the PK.  Add a sub-.500 road record and an 0-4 recent record against the Lightning, and a Canucks win seems unlikely.

The Lightning lost 2 straight on the road, but bounced back with a big home win against the Blues last time out.  Tampa Bay is very tough to beat at home.  With a top five offense and power play, they could have a field day against either of the Canucks' inexperienced 2nd string goalies.  The Canucks give out high risk chances and power play goals like Hallowe'en candy, but don't underestimate their offense.  The over is 23 -14 in Canucks' games this season.  Expect a high scoring game tonight  and go with the over again.

San Jose has lost it's way with just three wins in ten games.  They beat the Coyotes last night, but wins on consecutive nights is unlikely, especially against a 7-3 Kings team who are very good  at home.  LA won in a surprisingly low scoring game the last time these two teams met, but the Kings have been hot lately, beating both the Oilers and the Knights, and scoring 6 and 5 goals respectively.  The Kings' forte is offense and power play, and while their defense is below average, it is not nearly as poor as the The Sharks' who are  28th in goals allowed.

LA has six players with 10 or more goals, plus decent secondary scoring.  The Sharks' +/- is very shaky, neither goaltender is especially sharp, and they will play two nights in a row with travel thrown in.  Look for the Kings to be a lot tougher on the Sharks than the last time these two teams met.  The Sharks aren't terrible at putting the puck in the net either.  With  the Sharks averaging three goals a game, and the Kings on a tear, look for this game to go over the total.

The 7-3 Kings are at home to the Sharks, who are struggling at 3-7. The Sharks managed a win against the Coyotes last night, but they defend poorly and are playing in a back to back situation. It will likely be Reimer in net for the Sharks, and he has struggled in three straight games, although having the 28th ranked defense in front of you doesn’t help. Copley will very likely start for the Kings. He’s been a bit of an eye-opener this season at 11-2, giving up just 2.5 goals a game.

The Sharks have had success in the past against the Kings, and the last time they met resulted in a close Kings’ win. The Kings are getting solid and varied scoring and have a good power play. They’ve scored 6 and 5 goals respectively against better teams than the Sharks. At home, and with better rest, look for the Kings to win big tonight. Take the Kings at – 1 ½.

Buffalo played a typical Sabres-style game last time out, scoring 6 times and allowing 5 goals.  They are 8-2 L10 and have potted 39 goals in those wins. They host the 6-4 Flyers on Monday, who were blown out by the Leafs on Sunday.  With back to back games and travel, fatigue could be a factor for Philadelphia.  The Flyers are below .500 on the road and are a below average defensive team.  7 of their last 10 game have gone over the total. They will run out a back up goalie against the Sabre's #1 offense and #2 power play. The Sabres have plenty of firepower, but still struggle on defense, allowing on average 3.4 goals against.

I am wagering on the over for Monday's match-up.  Look for the Sabres to light it up against a road-weary Flyers team.

The Capitals whipped the Blue Jackets last week in Columbus, and now face them at home.  The Blue Jackets are playing their 2nd game in two nights on Sunday.  Columbus is appalling on the road at just 2-12 this year.  The Capitals are a strong home team and will be much tougher to play against with the return of Backstrom and  everyone's favorite, Tom Wilson.  The Blue Jackets are not as fortunate, still with a very long list of injuries. Ranking 30th in both goals scored and PP, and 31st in goals allowed, they will have their hands full against the Capitals' top ten offense and defense.
Merzlikins (4.78,.861 SV %) had an ugly game vs the Capitals in his first appearance in nearly a month.  It has been a tough season for him, not helped by an exceptionally poor and depleted defense in front of him.  Kuemper will start for Washington tonight, and he has been steady.
With just 2 wins in the last 10 games, Columbus is a very large underdog today. They upset the 'Canes in Columbus last night in a shoot-out, managing just 18 shots while giving up 42.  They travel today, and there is little chance of another win tonight.  Take the Capitals in a repeat performance, winning on the puck line at -1 1/2.

Here is a very good situation for a Big Bad Bruins win.  Boston is 7-3 L10, but a fine 11-4 on the road this season.  They catch the Sharks on the wrong end of a back to back, with Reimer who has struggled lately, in net.  The Sharks are horrible at home with just 4 wins to date.  They are languishing down in the cellar on defense and aren't much better on offense. The Bruins by comparison, with the best defense and PK in the league, are also #2 in goals scored and #4 on the power play.   Ullmark should start and he is in the  Vezina conversation for his season's play, not to mention super-sharp in recent action.

Boston is a legitimate large favorite for Saturday, but with both offensive and defensive prowess, they are also a solid bet on the puck line.  Take the Bruins to take on prisoners, winning and covering against the Sharks.

Nashville knocked off the 'Canes last night, leaning on Saros' monster 67 save performance. He won't be in the net tonight, as Preds' are on the road against against a tough Capitals team.  Washington, now 7-3 L10, also played last night, winning easily.  They are at home tonight where they are an impressive 12-5 this season.  They shut out Nashville in the only other time they faced the Predators.

Nashville is just .500 on the road, and 5 -5 in their last ten games.  They struggle to score this season, among the bottom-dwellers in goals-for and on the Power Play, while are exactly average on defense.  The Capitals are a top ten offense and defense, and have an excellent PK.  In the tale of the fill-in goalies, the Capitals have a decided edge.  Lindgren has been sharp, while playing on a regular basis. The Preds' Lankinen has played just twice in the last month, allowing 5 goals in each appearance.

It isn't just the goal-tender who will be tired after a 60+shot onslaught.  Look for the Capitals, with no travel today, to be the fresher of the two teams.  Take the ageless Ovechkin and the Capitals to continue their success at home and win today.

The Bruins and Kings clash in LA tonight, meeting for the second time this year.  The Kings, a very good home team this year, beat the Bruins in December.  Boston will be looking for revenge tonight, and are super-strong on the road this year at 10-4.  Boston, with the 2nd most goals-scored and the 6th ranked power play, face a Kings team whose defensive stats (23rd goals against, 28th PK)are well below average.  Boston is very tough on defense as well, 1st in goals-against, and PK against an average Kings offense.  Ullmark is the likely starter for the Bruins.  He is arguably the best net-minder this season, and is both good and consistent.  Quick is expected for the Kings tonight.  Quick may be showing his age this year, struggling for the season and in recent games as well.
The Bruins have been a bit inconsistent in recent games, splitting their last 4, but there is no doubting that this is a legitimate 1st place team.  I am not willing to gamble on LA taking 2 straight, even with their home record.  Look for the Bruins to step it up tonight, evening up the series.  The odds are not onerous, considering Boston's talent and record.  Take Boston to win.

The Lightning /Wild match-up pits two resurgent teams with very similar recent performances. Both teams are 8-2 L10, and both have given up 2 goals or less in those eight wins. It is literally years since these two teams met, so there is no recent history as a guide. The Lighting have a decided edge on offense, but are playing their second game in two nights. Both teams have solid defense, playing in shutdown mode of late. The Lightning will very likely start Vasilevskiy, having started Elliott against the weaker Black Hawks in Game one on Tuesday. Sporting a .921 save % and a 2.42 Goals Against average, he has been exceptional in recent games. Gustavsson is projected to start for the Wild. He has also been very good in a larger than fill-in role for Minnesota this year.

Injuries are not really a concern for either team at the moment. The under is 8-2 in the Wilds’ last 10 games, and 3-1 in Tampa Bay’s last 4. With two very good net-minders, two solid defenses, and a tired Lightning offense another low scoring game seems likely. Wager on another under on Wednesday.

The Knights are on the road to face a disappointing Avalanche team, with both sides seriously depleted by injuries.  The Avs have lost three straight since the break, with all games going over the total. The good news for Colorado is that MacKinnon is back.  Their offense, ranked 25th, certainly needs a boost.  Colorado plays at home tonight, but aren't nearly as invincible a home squad as in seasons past.  Georgiev is the likely starter.  He has not been at all sharp since Christmas, allowing 14 goals on 93 shots in his last three games.  He was pulled in the loss against the Leafs last time out.  The Golden Knights' should start Thompson (.915 SV %) in net.  His numbers  have tumbled a bit as well in recent games.

The Knights are just 1-2 since Christmas, but have been tough to beat on the road at 14-3 this season.  They are very depleted at center and defense tonight.  The Knights are off a shoot out 5-4 win, but will miss Eichel today.

Goal-tending has bee a recent concern for the two teams, and both are very weak on defensemen tonight. I am not confident of a winner in this match-up but do believe the game will surpass the total, now set at six.  Take Vegas and Colorado to go over.

The Predators played well on Thursday, feasting on the Ducks, but now travel to Vegas to face a very different opponent.  The 6 goal outburst was unusual for the 3-7 Preds, who are just 1-6 vs over .500 teams in recent games.  They are thirtieth ranked in goals scored this season, and  not much better on the power play.  They face a Knights team that has lost 2 straight on the road but has had a couple of days to regroup.  The Vegas Golden Knights are close to top ten on offense and defense, and hold a considerable edge in play over Nashville.  Nashville has not thrived on the road, and now face an early turn-around in a back to back situation with their back-up goalie in net.  Lankinen has had some good performances this season, but his last appearance over two weeks ago was not one of them, giving up 5 goals.  He'll face the Knights' young net-minder Thompson, with a solid .916 goals-against avg. this year and a spoiled shutout in his last game.

Vegas has been doing everything in twos lately; two wins, two losses, two wins, two losses.  Time to get back in the win column for  New Years eve!  Take a better Golden Knights team to rebound and win at home on Saturday.

The Hurricanes, after some shaky play earlier in the season, are tearing up the league lately.  They are going for 10 straight wins vs the Panthers, who have fallen by the wayside somewhat this season.  Florida thrashed the Habs last night, but are just 4-6 in their last 10 games and aren't successful at all (1-7) vs. teams that are over .500.

These teams have played just once this season, with Florida winning.  The Panthers have owned  the 'Canes in their recent match ups, but that will change tonight. The Hurricanes are shutting teams down lately with a fourth-ranked defense.  Florida is 21st by comparison.  The Canes are dominant at home.  The Panthers played last night and will likely start Knight in net.  He has barely played lately, with just 2 games since Dec. 6 and with save %'s of .731 and .800 in those appearances.  It will likely be Kochetkov in net for the 'Canes.  The young goalie has filled in admirably in a back up roll for Carolina, and is 10-1-4, with a 1.94 Goals against avg.

Carolina will be motivated tonight, and not just because it is the Panthers.  !0 straight wins would be a team record.  Florida is a poor team on the road,  and no doubt their arms will tired from all those goals scored last night. (I'm kidding) Give me the Panthers at home to break the record.  The Hurricanes, a favorite, will win.

Buffalo has won 4 straight and have had an extended rest due to snow.  They are at home to the Red Wings, who play their second game in two nights.  The Sabres won 4 straight before the break, and for a team that struggles on defense, held teams to stingy 2 goals or less in those games.  There is nothing wrong with the Sabres' offense.  With 18 goals in their last four games, they have the top offense and 2nd ranked PP this year.  Anderson, now 41, has been a stand-out in net with an impressive .922 Save % on a defensively challenged team.  Detroit are 22nd ranked on defense and will be down to their second-string goal-tender.  Nedeljkovic has struggled this season and hasn't played since Dec.8.  Can you spell RUSTY?
The favorite generally wins out when these two teams meet.  The Red Wings are on the verge of players returning, but at this point are still missing more bodies than they would care to.  They've given up more than 4 goals in 4 straight games, and have won just once in seven games.  I am surely wagering on the Sabres in this match up.  Take Buffalo to win and act now as this line will change.

The Winnipeg Jets return from the break at home, where they are a fine 12-5 this season.  The Wild, on a 6-1 run, are less impressive on the road, 8-6 so far.  The Wild are just average on offense, but are certainly over-achieving on defense, limiting opposing offenses to just 6 goals total in those wins.  Both of their goaltenders have been sharp in net.  Fleurie has underwhelmed until recently, but was very very sharp leading up to the break.

The Jets are playing a much more disciplined and defensively-responsible style of hockey under new coach Bowness.  They are 4th-ranked in goals-against to date, and a strong fifth on the Penalty Kill.  #1 goaltender Hellebuyck, bouncing back from an off year in 2021,  is Vezina-good this season.

The Jets and Wild are both pretty average on offense, but have both been stingy in the goals-against recently.  Both teams have top-rated and competitive veteran net-minders, so perhaps we will see a little extra rivalry in goal.  the Under has been THE main feature for both teams lately; 6 of 7 in Wild games , and 6 straight for the Jets.  Here is a trend I don't want to buck.  Take the Jets and Wild to go under the total again on Tuesday.

The Canucks are off a come-from-behind shoot-out victory last night, and now travel to Edmonton to meet the Oilers today. It appears that 2nd stringer Spencer Martin will be back in the net with no viable option as a replacement.  The Canucks will be a tired team, no doubt looking ahead to the break.  The Oilers are just 1-4 lately with five straight games going over the total.  Their top two stars usually excel vs the Canucks.  The Canucks' defense and penalty kill are among the league's worst, but they can put the puck in the net.  The Oilers are no great shakes on defense either, but do sport the 3rd best offense and the league's top power play.  
Vancouver has been very good on the road recently, but offense and goal tending will let them down tonight.  Vancouver has lost five straight against the Oilers.  Take this game to go over the total.

Off a loss in their last game but on a 7-1 run, the Rangers are at home to the rival islanders on Thursday evening.  It is a good opportunity for the Rangers to salvage a single win in the 3 game series in spite of a past history of losses to the Isles.  The teams are evenly matched this season, allowing an average of 2.7 goals while scoring 3.2.  The Rangers have a solid edge recently, managing 30 goals in those 7 wins while allowing just 10.  The Islanders are just 2-5 in their last 7 games, with 5 of those games going over, a very un-Isles style of play in this stretch.  
Sorokin has struggled lately. He lost 5 straight games, bouncing back in his last start with a much better effort.  We knew it would happen, but it appears Rangers net-minder Shesterkin has finally re-found his form, with a .945 Save % lately, allowing minimal goals in recent games.
In spite of the Islander dominance in the past, I like the Rangers chances today. They are healthier and playing a much more defensively responsible, with a ton of potential firepower.  They've been under-performing for much of the season,  but now seem to have turned a corner.  take the Rangers to win at home.

The 8-2 Wild are on a tear, moving into third in their division and winning 5 straight.  They've allowed just five goals in those wins while scoring 17, and are  getting a fine one-two scoring punch from Zuccarello and Kaprizov.  The 3-7 Ducks lost last night to the Kings.  The Ducks are 0-6 when playing the second game in a back to back situation.  Anaheim is down to their third or fourth string goalie tonight with a trio of defensemen out or questionable, adding to their woes as the league's worst in goals allowed and 31st in goals-scored.  Fleury will likely be in net for the Wild. He has been under-performing slightly this year, but has shown improvement lately with a pair .950+ save %'s in his last two appearances.
The Wild are healthier, better rested and have momentum.  The Ducks' goalie and defense situation is not promising. Take the Wild on the Puck line at -1 1/2.

The high-scoring Sabres are on the road against the Golden Knights on Monday.  The Sabres have won three straight and are above .500 on the road. Vegas is 1-3 in recent home games, and their young goalie Thompson has also tended to struggle more at home.  Vegas has a lengthy injury list with some key players out.  The Sabres have the top offense in the league but defense is often not a priority, allowing 3.5 goals a game.  The Knights are a solid defensive team, but their 24th ranked PK will be up against the Sabres second ranked Power Play. Vegas is also not immune to some high totals, allowing 5 against the Islanders and the Jets in recent games.
The potential is there for a high scoring game.  Take the Sabres and Golden Knights to go over the total.

The surprising Coyotes, off a win over the Islanders, have two strikes against them tonight.  In spite of an above .500 record at home, they played last night, and won't start Vejmelka in net.  Vejmelka has held the Coyotes in games all year, but played last night, so expect Ingram (1-6, .866) to start.  For the Sabres it will likely be 41 year old Anderson, a standout this year, off a shutout over the Kings in his last start.  The Sabres have won their last two games and while very young, have a tremendous upside.  They are leading the league in goals-scored and are second on the PP.  Defense is not their forte; they give up 3.5 goals a game.  The weak scoring Coyotes may have exhausted themselves last night, managing 5 goals against the Islanders.  Arizona gives up better than 3.5 goals a game.
I like the Sabres' chances very much today. They're an explosive offensive team with a solid veteran net-minder against a poor and tired Coyotes squad playing their second string goalie. they have a better record on the road this year. Take the Sabres all the way.

The Jets, off a pair of losses after a 7-1 run, are at home and facing a Predators team who have struggled on the road this season.  Winnipeg allowed 11 goals in their last two games, uncommon in a team that is fifth in goals against, and very stingy on the PK.  The Jets will try to get back to their defensively responsible selves against a Preds team that has lost four straight and is 29th rated in goals scored and on the PP.  Nashville is also down 3 or 4 defensemen to injury today.

The Predators' ace net-minder Saros has been more uneven that might be expected this year.  Hellebuyck, the Jets' elite goaltender, has allowed 5 and 6 goals against in his last two games, but that has been more about defensive breakdowns in front of him.  Winnipeg has been overachieving on offense lately.  Look for  a much more defensively-focused Jets team to  avoid their third straight loss, and win this one at home.

The 4-6 Flames are very poor on the road this season at 3-6, including 4 straight road losses.  They are playing their 3rd game in 4 nights before returning home, and are 0-4 in similar situations.  The Canadiens also 4-6 , are 4-0 against Flames, winning recently  in Calgary in early December.  It should be Markstrom vs Allen in net tonight.  Markstrom has not been his dominant self this season, slipping to the #2 position in Flames net-minders.  The Habs' net-minder Allen has been hot of late. 

The Flames are a very large favorite today.  They'll be a tired club, off an overtime loss, facing a very well-coached but uneven young club, with a record equal to Calgary's. The Canadiens are better rested and finally starting to get some players returning from injury.  Given the situation and odds, I'm taking the Canadiens on the puck line at +1 1/2.

The Capitals returned home for just a single game, and are now back on the road again.  At 5-8, they aren't the best of road teams this year, and they face a very tough Jets team who are 10-3 at home.  With Kuemper out to injury, Lindgren has filled in, often admirably.  He'll face tough competition in the net from the Jets' stellar goal-tender Hellebuyck.   The Capitals have a long list of players out to injury at the moment, and struggle to score this year, with just a 27th ranked offense and 21st PP.  The Jets are 8-2 L10, healthier, and very tough on defense, but also overachieving on offense, with a goals-for average of nearly 5 in those 8 wins.
Wager on the high-flying Jets to keep up those winning ways today.

The 7-3 Lightning have been money in the bank against sub-.500 teams and at home this season, and have an enviable record against today’s opponent, the Panthers. It is hard to think of Florida as underachievers, but they are definitely sub-par on defense. Tampa bests them on offense, and has a distinct advantage on special teams, pitting their 3rd ranked PP against a 20th ranked Panthers PK. Florida continues to struggle on the road this season. They have Bobrobski in net, who was fine in his last start, but has had some shockingly poor games this season. Vasilevskiy will likely start for Tampa. He has been very sharp after a brief rough patch in November.

Tampa is the healthier of the two teams and look to continue their fine record against the Panthers tonight. Take Tamp to win.

The Jets roll into St. Louis on the upswing, piling up 27 goals in those five wins.  For a team known for its defense (4th), PK (4th), and stand-out goal-tending, that extra offense is a huge  plus.  Hellebuyck, after an off-season last year, has been a game changer this season, winning fives straight, with a fine .933 save percentage.

The Blues are struggling at 2-6 and have been allowing more than 5 goals a game of late.  With a 29th ranked defense and the worst PK in the league, this is not surprising.  Binnington, who started hot, has now lost 6 straight games in net. 

The Blues are just 3-6 vs teams over .500, while the Jets are 8-2 in their division, and a  superlative 12-3 in St Louis.  Take the Jets to continue their fine play with another road victory.

The Canucks were down 0-4 and rallied to win 7-6 in OT in their last game.  They are a frustrating team but can put the puck in the net both on five on five and on the PP. It is keeping the puck out of the net that is their problem with a 30th ranked defense and now an injury to their #1 goaltender Demko.  Back-up net-minder Martin did not inspire confidence on Sunday; he was pulled after allowing 4 goals on 8 shots.

They are on the road against a 2-8 Sharks team, who are also a dismal 2-8 at home this year.  The Sharks are weak on offense, scoring under 3 goals a game but will get their opportunities against the Canucks' defense.  The Sharks have given up 11 goals in their last two games, and will likely have Kakhonen and his uninspiring .882 save % in net.  The Canucks had his number in their 4-3 victory in November.  
Look for the Sharks and Canucks, two of the poorest defending teams in the league, to go over the total on Wednesday.

Vegas is in first place in the Pacific Division, and have an enviable road record, but I am not convinced of their "worthiness" this year.  They are barely over .500 in their last 10 games, losing to the Canucks and Kraken in their last five games.   Meanwhile the Bruins, who are full marks for their first place position, are 9-1 L10, and have yet to lose at home.  Boston has played the Avs, Canes and Lightning in their last three games and allowed just 4 goals.  This is not so surprising, considering they are first in goals-against, as well as tops in goals-scored.  They are also 2nd in PP, while facing a Knights team that is 24th ranked in the PK.  Rookie net minder Thompson should play for the Golden Knights tonight.  He has been very solid, if a bit uneven this season.  Not so Ullmark, Boston's goalie, who has been sharp and consistent all season.

Look for the Big Bad Bruins, who are also the healthier of the teams, to extend their home win streak. Boston to win outright.

The Blue Jackets are 1-4 on the road this season, and you can add to that a long list of players who are black and blue, listed as out or questionable.  The surging Jets are 8-2 at home, and have won 3 straight including a 5-0 shutout of the Avs.  Winnipeg has been overachieving on offense, piling up 17 goals in their last three games, in spite of a seasons average 3.2 goals scored for the season.  Where the Jets usually thrive is on defense, goaltending and the penalty kill.  Columbus does not match up well.  They are 24th in offense and really suffer on defense and the penalty kill (30th ranked respectively)
The Jets Hellebuyck has re-found his form after something of a lost year last season.  He is a better bet than the Jackets' Korpisalo, who has been uneven this year.  I like the Jets' chances today.  Columbus is a big underdog in this matchup, and rightly so, considering injuries and road record.  Take Winnipeg and their recent offensive success on the Puck line at -1 1/2.  Great odds here.

The 3-7 Sabres won last night but gave up 4 goals with their best available net minder in goal.  Tonight's starter Luukkonen has played just 3 games this season, giving up more than 4 goals a game with a SV% of .845.
The 7-3 Avs were whipped by the Jets two nights ago, and won't be in a forgiving mood tonight.  Their offense has been surprisingly quiet this season, but it will absolutely break out, and tonight might just be the night. Colorado has the league's top PP, against a Sabres team that is 28th on defense and 26th in the PK. Buffalo has multiple goal-tenders out with injuries.  The Sabres can put the puck in the net, but face a very good Avalanche defense.
The Sabres are 1-6 in recent home games and 0-4 vs the  Avs at home as well.  Add playing on a back to back, with a 3rd or 4th line goalie, and you likely have an avalanche of sorts.  Take Colorado to win. A multiple goal victory wouldn't surprise me.

The Sabres, winner of just 2 of 10 games, face a streaky Red Wings team in Detroit on Wednesday.  The Sabres are below .500 on the road this season, but it isn't their offense that should be faulted for their lack of wins.  They've had solid and balanced scoring this year, with the fourth ranked offense and a 7th place PP.  They have, however, been quite shaky on defense, with the third worst defense and PK.  Not surprisingly, we have seen 4 of 5 games go over the total, including a 11 goal total on Monday.
The Red Wings are just slightly above average in all categories, although they have managed a bit more offense (4+ goals per game) of late.  They've been running with Husso in net, and for good reason, but it is Nedeljkovic who starts on Wednesday. He hasn't played much this season, and has allowed 4 goals a game with a save % of .880 in his starts. Detroit has been consistently good (7-3) at home this season, and have the personnel to make an impression this year.  With the Red Wings' weaker net-minder in, and the Sabres' firepower and leaky D, the best bet is the total.  Look for another high scoring game and wager on the over.

The New Jersey Devils are on a terrific roll, bouncing back from their sole loss in ages with two straight wins.  They are 9-1 on the road, and facing an underachieving Rangers team that is just .500 at home.  Shesterkin, tonight's likely starter, has been more uneven than expected, with the Rangers struggling badly against top offenses.  Consistent goal tending has plagued New Jersey in the past, but not this year.  Tonight's likely starter Vanacek, has been both consistent and good, with the Devils allowing 12 goals total and 2 or less in each of their last 8 games.

The Devils' past history against the Rangers is ugly but that was then, and this is now.  They haven't met this year, and it is time for a little pay-back.  New Jersey has the third rated offense and the best defense in the league, and face a Rangers team that is only average on offense and could be out two top defense-men.  You won't find the Devils at better odds, so jump on this match-up!

The Bruins had their win streak snapped on the road last game, but they are back home with just 2 losses in their last 10 games, and have a sterling home record of 11-0.  The Hurricanes have a streak of their own, having lost 4 straight since managing a win vs the Black Hawks.  The Hurricanes can't put the puck in the net with any regularity; not at 5 on 5 (27th ranked) nor on the PP 930th ranked). The Bruins  are  best in the league both in goals scored and goals allowed, and 2nd and 3rd in special teams.  They'll have Ullmark back in net on Saturday, who hasn't lost since Nov. 5th, and sports a .935 Save %.  It will likely be Kochetkov for the 'Canes.  He struggled in a losing effort against the lowly Coyotes in his last start.

The Home team has a giant 7-0 edge when these two teams meet up.  I can't think of a reason that the Bruins might lose, other than possibly too much turkey? Take the Bruins to start a new winning streak on Saturday.  Boston to win.

The Panthers have lost 3 straight, including 2 at home, where they usually earn a very consistent W.  Their recent goals-against numbers are alarming with 16 goals against in their last three games.  This doesn't bode well for Wednesday's game as the visiting Bruins sport the best offense in the NHL, and have lit the red light 20 times in their last 4 games. Boston is also first in defense, and while the Lightning managed three goals in the Bruins' last game, the Bruins have allowed barely over a goal a game in their previous 7 matches.

With 8 straight victories, the Bruins are giving the upstart Devils a run for effectiveness a the moment.  The Bruins also lead the Panthers on special teams by a wide margin and have been very tough on the road.  Florida is a shadow of the powerhouse of recent years to date this season.  Look for the Bruins to continue on a heat wave in their brief trip to Florida.  Take the Bruins to win on the road. Again. And remarkably, as an underdog, if you act quickly.

The Boston Bruins are an absolute powerhouse this year.  Winners of 6 straight, and 9 of their last 10 games, they have allowed just 7 goals in their last 6 wins while scoring 24. They are also getting lights-out goaltending from Ullmark, while sporting the top rated offense and defense in the league.
How do the Lightning stack up?  They have a top ten (just) offense, but can't compare on defense (13th) or special teams.  Vasilevskiy has been very good in his last two games, but a bit more average than one would expect for the season, with a .909 save %.  The Lightning have a 4 game winning streak of their own, but it includes a pair of overtime wins.
A healthy Bruins team starts a very tough road trip today but are 5-2 on the road this season.  It is hard to go against the kind of dominant and  consistent brand of hockey they've shown to date this season.  As good as the Lightning have been at home, I am taking the Bruins to win today.  You won't see better odds for Boston very soon.

The Golden Knights are making up for lost time after last year’s painful injury-ridden season. They are healthier, and playing on the road certainly isn’t slowing them down. Vegas is 8-1 in their last 9 road games. The Knights have the fifth rated offense and third ranked defense. It is a very balanced attack, with a solid and deep defense, plus excellent goal tending from Thompson, Saturday’s likely starter. One concern on Saturday will be their PK. The Knights’ penalty kill is only average, but up against a very fine Oilers’ PP.

Other than the power play, the Oilers have underwhelmed this year. They are 4-6 at home, and just over .500 for the season. The issues have been familiar ones; secondary scoring, goal-tending, and a leaky defense. They are getting some solid goal tending from an unlikely source. Skinner has been super sharp in his last two starts, and good more often than not this season, although his play has not necessarily translated into wins. The Oilers just lost Evander Kane to injury, throwing even more of the load onto the top two. Draisaitl and McDavid are dominant performers, but can be limited by top defense like the Canes and Knights. After those two, the Oilers are very much easier to play against.

I like Vegas’s chances on Saturday. The Knights are balanced and deep this year, outscoring the Oilers in spite of D and McD. It may be close but look for another road victory for the Golden Knights.

The 8-2 Islanders travel to Nashville to meet the Preds who have won 2 straight at home, allowing just a pair of goals total.  They only scored 4, and that has been the way of their offense this year.  They are 30th in the league in goals scored and PP performance,  while the defense has been average.  The difference in the last two game is that Saros, who has played to mixed reviews this season, has found his usual form, with a save % of over .970 in those games.
The 8-2 Islanders have their usual strong defense (5th in the league), but this year they are putting the puck in the net with a bit more frequency.  They have been good on the road, and also have a sharp goaltender at the moment. Sorokin has been terrific all season, allowing just over 2 goals a game, with a .932 save %. Nashville has been very stingy on the road, and with two top goalies involved, we could see a tight game on Thursday.  Take the under in a good old goalies' duel.

We've got the league's two worst offenses facing off today when the Blues meet the home team Black Hawks.  St. Louis's defense has been no great shakes either, but they did limit Vegas and the Avs to two goals each in their latest games.  Chicago's defense has been above average to date.  Blues net minder Binnington bounced back with a couple of fine .940+ save % games in his latest appearances.  Soderblom has opened some eyes in Chicago allowing just 2.6 goals a game.  It is no surprise that the rebuilding Black Hawks haven't been able to sustain their fine start. They have struggled to score lately with 6 straight unders to show for it.  The Blues have been a mixed bag, but  Binnington is capable of being a game changer, and the Blues seem to be more defensibly responsible in their last three games.  Take today's game to go under again.

The Penguins have won their last two games after a lengthy losing streak, but are on the wrong end a back to back, a situation they have not thrived in recently and in the long term.  They are also struggling on the road to date in the season.  Jarry likely starts, and after a very good start to the season, has not shown well lately, with an average save % of well under .900 . DeSmith played in both recent victories.

Underdogs and home teams have the advantage in recent meetings between these two teams, and the Canadiens are both on Saturday.  Although they can be up and down, they have a better record than the Penguins, and have also won 2 straight.  They are considerably better on defense and on the PK  this year.  Allen, the likely starter on Saturday has a .907 save %, and was very strong against the Sabres in his last game.

The Penguins are a surprisingly high road favorite on Saturday, and I am not sure that that line is justified.  Take  the underdog Habs to come through at home.

The Stars, winners of 3 of 4 games, are back home and facing a struggling 3-12 Sharks team.  The offense has been clicking; Dallas averaged 6 goals-for a game in those three wins before a poor performance against a tough Jets team at the tail end of the road trip.  The Sharks have had no recent luck (0-6) against the Stars in Dallas and are just 2-4 on the road this season.  San Jose has scored over three goals a game in their last 6 appearances, an improvement over the early season.  The problem is that they have allowed well over 4 goals a game, resulting in 5 straight losses. They are on the tail end of a back-to-back tonight.  We've seen a steady diet of overs from the Sharks, and while the offense has improved, managing to keep the Sharks in games lately, the defense has not.  The Sharks face a very potent Stars offense and power play tonight.  The suggested total is about average; too low for this match up.  Jump on the over in this game.

The Flames started out strongly this season but have now lost 6 straight.  They are on the road against a Bruins team that has only lost 2 games this season, and is top of the heap in the Atlantic Division. Thursday's starting goalie Ullmark is a sparkling 9-1, .932 save %, outplaying a disappointing Markstrom, who is allowing nearly three goals a game and with a sub-.900 save %.  The Flames are not the powerhouse of last year.  Their top line has been completely revamped and is not clicking.  They have a barely average offense, and a sub-par defense. The Bruins by comparison are best in goals scored (4.1 per game), third in defense (2.4 goals allowed), and with a huge edge in special teams.  There are even sightings of a healthy McAvoy.
There is nothing to suggest a quick turnaround for Calgary.  Unlike last year, they have not been successful on the road to date, and the Bruins are hardly generous on home ice.  This one should be all Bruins and is cheap at the price.

The Capitals are  home against the faltering Penguins, but haven't exactly been burning up the score sheets either, scoring less than 2 goals a game and winning just twice in their last 7 games. After an embarrassing loss to the Coyotes, they rallied vs the Oilers on Monday.  Kuemper, likely in net against the Penguins, has been steady lately other than a painful third period in the loss vs Phoenix.
The Penguins have lost 7 straight, and the biggest issue has been goals against.  They have the 25th ranked defense and unfortunately the PK is even worse.  Goaltender Jarry started the season well, but has struggled of late.  Their road record is poor, winning just once in six games.
The Capitals  are a surprise underdog on Wednesday, and normally I'd jump on this opportunity, however the Capitals have 6 key players out to injury.  The Penguins have had a few extra days off to regroup, and the Capitals are just too depleted against a better rested and no doubt motivated Pittsburgh team. Look for the Penguins to steal this one one with a rare road victory. 9*!

The Sabres are firing on all cylinders on offense, with 18 goals scored in their last 3 games, all victories.  They are on the road and face a very good Hurricanes team fresh off an overtime victory against the Lightning.  Maybe too fresh, as the Canes are playing the second half of a back to back.

The Sabres lost both games against Carolina, but that was then.. This is a different Sabres club with an equal record to the Hurricanes.  They are 2nd in league offense, 3-1 to date on the road, and have the edge in special teams.  The odds-makers are slow in cottoning on to the Sabres, allowing for very favorable odds on Friday.  A win wouldn’t surprise me, but I am wagering on the Sabres to at least keep this one close.  Take Buffalo +1.5

The Devils are an improved team, especially on offense, but in the net it has been a bit of the "same ol'".  They've limited shots but not necessarily goals. Blackwood (.871 save%) was expected to start but may be injured, in which case it will be Vanacek, who has struggled to an .833 save% in net.  Their goals against have fluctuated wildly, but against the Avs, expect more rather than less today.  
The Avalanche are underachieving (for them) on offense to date, but have far too much firepower for this to continue.  They still have the best power play in the league, and have been good on the road so far.  Georgiev, today's likely net minder, has been solid in net, but the Avalanche give up a ton of chances and sport one of the worst PKs in the league at the moment.
Look for the Avs to break out on offense and the Devils to reply in kind, resulting in a relatively high-scoring affair.  I am on the over today. 9*!

The Oilers are putting the puck in the net with considerable frequency, as expected, but are allowing over three goals a game on defense.  That recent 0-2 home loss against the Blues really stands out amid the usual 8 or more goal totals.  Blues' projected goaltender Binnington is 3-0 with a very sharp .944 save %.  Jack Campbell has started the bulk of the Oilers games and has a sub .900 save % to date.  The Blues are always tough to play against, and after their first loss of the season, could be particularly ornery.  Special teams will likely figure prominently.  The Blues have yet to yield a power play goal, but face the League's #2 power play.  The Blues are a slight underdog at home, but so far have had the answer to the Oilers' firepower.  Take the Blues to win.

The “never say die” Lightning have stretched the series to a sixth game at home, on the backs of Vasilevskiy and a tight style of play. They have managed to control the Av’s offense to the tune of just 2 goals allowed in their last three games, much better than I expected. They have the advantage of the final change tonight, and may have the Av’s wondering just what they have to do to beat Tampa’s goal-tender.

Kuemper has played well but not at the same standard as the Tampa net-minder. The Av’s gave up twice the number of penalties in game five and it burned them. They too will have to play a tighter game; their success came when they limited the Lightning’s shot totals in games one and two. Those totals have crept up closer to 30 lately. Kuemper’s play can’t stand the impact of too many mistakes.

I expect to see an even tighter game today. I am sticking with the total, but have been burned on the over. Find the highest available line tonight and take the under.

The Av’s at home were a force at home this season. They are better rested and probably healthier, if the rumors around the Lightning are true. Kadri is back and made an impact, and Kuemper looked much better, especially in the early going when the Avalanche were badly outshot. Even with an early goal against and the Lightning all in, the Avalanche managed to turn the tide, and were back to their dynamic selves by the finish.

It was a demoralizing loss for the Lightning, and I don’t know if they have a road win in them, but they won’t give up easily, and there is always the Vasilevskiy factor to consider.

The odds on the Av’s are very high. I am sticking with the total in Game Five. At home, with the better energy, and the Cup in sight, I expect Colorado to be on fire on offense from the opening faceoff. Game Five could be a more wide open affair. If the Av’s score early, the Lightning will be force to follow. Shop around and take the total to go over.

What a difference home ice has meant in this series! It would be easy to blame Kuemper for the Game Three loss; a .773 Save %is unacceptable at any time. A finger can also be pointed at the Av’s defense, who after a brilliant effort in Game 2, allowed double the number of shots and had obvious gaffes and missed coverages. More disciplined disciplined play is vital; the Av’s allowed far too many PP opportunities. Kudos must go to the Lightning. A proud and experienced team answered back in a big way, with a much better game from their offense and from Vasilevskiy.

What can we expect in Game Four? The Av’s goaltending is the biggest issue, but I expect a much better effort from the Colorado defense. I don’t expect to see the Av’s held to 2 goals, Vasilevskiy or no. If the Lightning can deliver another effort similar to Game 3’s, a second home win is not out of the question. This is the first time in the play-offs that the Av’s have been shut down, and I expect a huge response tonight. A winner is very much up in the air, but I was burned badly in underestimating Tampa Bay at home, and I am not about to be struck twice. I am sticking to the total tonight. Take Game Four to go over.

It wasn’t just Vasilevskiy who looked off in Game 2. The Avs were relentless and so fast on the counter-attack that the LIghtning looked very old in pursuit of the puck. The Lightning and Vasilevskiy are expected to rebound at home, but 7-0 is a long way to come back from. The Av’s were great on defense, limiting Tampa to just 16 shots. Kuemper looked fine, if not heavily tested. The defense in front of him played an admirably tight game of play-off style hockey, and the team never let down as they did in game 1. Makar broke out in a big way on offense with a short handed and a power play goal. Could McKinnon be next?

I don’t like the Lightnings’ chances in Game 3, irregardless of their past abilities to battle back. I do expect a better game from their often brilliant goalie, and I don’t expect another shutout from Kuemper, but if the Av’s keep playing with the same intensity, it will be a short series. Braden Point is not back in form. The Lightning looked tired, the Av’s, after that long lay off, looked very fresh and inspired, ready to get that monkey off their back. Take the Avalanche to win away.

After the Avs' shelling of Vasilevskiy and the Lightning on the road in Game two, a home-side rebound is expected from Tampa. No one expected seven goals against from the “best goalie on the planet” any more than a 16 shot shutout from Kuemper. The scoring chances in game two were completely lopsided; the Lightning will do everything in their power to slow Colorado down on home ice, and with the final change will at least have the player match up they want. I expect a better game from Vasilevskiy and tighter play from Tampa, but the Lightning are going to be awfullyy hard to slow down.

Game 2 was a masterful demonstration of defense by the Avs. I expect them to attempt more of the same disciplined play on defense, but I am sure the Lightning will be better in Game three and test Kuemper more often. A total of over 5.5 is available.  In this case, take the over.

What do I expect in game two of the Stanley Cup final?  A tighter game, with Tampa Bay attempting to control more of the Av's "turn on the afterburners" style of play.  A better game from Vasilevskiy, who also took a game to get going vs. the Rangers. The Lightning allowed 37 shots and Vasilevskiy was under .900 in save %.  The Lightning can't win with that kind of performance from their star attraction.

For the Av's, they will need to avoid a 2nd period slump, but they held the Lightning to just 23 shots, so they can continue with more of the same, and hope for a better performance from Kuemper.  Kuemper had a long lay-off previous to Game one, and is capable of a much better game.  It is easy to underestimate the Av's defense.  They were 9th in the regular season, and started to play a tough play-off style in meaningful games late in the regular season.

The Av's are a moderate favorite today, but if Vasilevskiy plays to his capabilities, an Avalanche  win is certainly not assured.  I can't see the Avs breaking this game open, and I expect Kuemper to rebound.  The best bet today is still the total.  Take the Avs and Lightning to go under 6 goals.

The Avalanche are potent and fast on offense, well-rested, and have run over their opponents to date. The only issue on the horizon, other than the loss of Kadri, is their goal-tending. Kuemper has been nothing special to date, and could be too rested as we saw with Vasilevskiy in game one of the Rangers series. Speaking of Vasilevskiy, the Lightning net-minder came back and proved his worth in the rest of that series, and is the largest stumbling block between the Avs and the Stanley Cup. The Avs are a much better team on offense, and will exert far more pressure on the Lightnings’ defense and goal-tending. Tampa Bay limited the Rangers to under 25 shots in games 5 and 6. The Avs were over 40 shots in every game vs. the Oilers, and will have more than their share of attempts on the Tampa Bay net.

The Lightning are the veterans in the playoff final series, but the Avalanche have under-achieved in past years and will have all the desire in the world coming in to this game. Colorado has been a monster on home ice.

The Lightning were not prolific in goals-for vs. the Rangers, but faced a standout goaltender. I expect they will have more success vs. Kuemper, especially in Game one. Take the Over between the Lightning and Avalanche on Wednesday night.

The Lightning roll into Game 6 a heavy favorite, and are looking to keep that home ice advantage intact and finish the Rangers, but I can’t see New York rolling over easily. Shesterkin has perhaps been out-dueled lately by Vasilevskiy but is still a formidable goaltender. Games 4 and 5 were not easy wins for the Lightning; the young Rangers’ side has come a long way in the playoffs this year, and should not be counted out today. What we saw in game 5 was a tighter effort from both teams and a significant drop in shot totals, not to mention the 4th straight low total. I took the Lightning to win in Game 5, but won’t play them on today’s odds. With the same total line available today, I am back with the under. I expect game 6 to be even tighter and definitely more disciplined. Take the Rangers and Lightning to go under the total.

The Lightning looked much more impressive in game 4 and got to Shesterkin for three goals twice in their home starts. They need at least one road victory against the Ranger for a series win, and with Vasilevskiy now playing the way he is capable of (.971 and .933 SV% in his last two starts), tonight could be the night. The Rangers have held serve in this series but face an improving veteran Tampa Bay team, and now have some injuries to consider. While Vasilevskiy appeared rusty after the longish break, Shesterkin has played a lot of hockey and faced a ton of shots, so a fatigue factor must be considered. I’m on the Lightning to break the home ice voodoo tonight and win away.

The Lightning enter Game Four down 2-1 in the series and off a home victory. The Lightning have been excellent at home in the regular season and in the play-offs, but they barely eked out a win in the final moment on Sunday. This series will make or break on goaltending and home ice advantage. The Lightning have the home advantage on Tuesday, but goaltending has so far swung towards the Rangers . Vasilevskiy now has three games behind him since a too-long break between series and we are unlikely to see a repeat of Game One's performance. Shesterkin faced 51 shots in Game Three, held his team in the game until the final minute, and has been better than steady to date. You think there isn't just a little healthy rivalry between these two?

The Lightning will be buoyed up by the last minute victory, and are a large favorite vs. the Rangers on Tuesday. For another win they will have to shut down a hot Zibanejad, and put a few past Shesterkin, and there are no guarantees of either. I am looking for another big game from Vasilevskiy and banking on another low total.

The Avs can finish the Oilers with a road win tonight. Injuries have now become an issue in the series. The Avalanche have weathered the loss of Kuemper, as Francouz has filled in very well. Missing Kadri and Burakovsky hurts, but the Oilers win miss Kane (suspended) and Yamamoto just as much.

It is very impressive the way the Avs have controlled the Oilers’ explosive offense since game 1, managing McDavid on ice where no one else could. Credit is due especially to Toews and Makar. I expect an all-out siege by McDavid and Co. tonight, but have underestimated Colorado’s defense twice and won’t be burned again. The Oilers are missing two key pieces on offense today. With Draisatl still limping about, the Oilers were already limited in secondary scoring, and can ill afford to lose them. Good as he is, McDavid cannot win on his own. Take the under today.

Vasilevskiy’s and the Lightnings’ streak of consecutive wins after losses was broken in Game 2. The question is, can they restart the streak tonight? They are at home, where they have been effective in both regular season and playoffs, and in a must-win situation.

The Rangers badly out-played the Lightning in Game 2, and are healthier, but haven’t been the same team on the road for the season and the play-offs. Other than the outlier in Game 7, their goal production vs the Hurricanes dropped considerably in road appearances. The Rangers have a young team and are likely fired up, but the Lightning have experience on their side. Look for a bounce back from Tampa Bay’s top players, and expect a much better performance from the Lightning. The issue for Tampa is, of course, Shesterkin. Considering his play in this series and last, it is hard to believe that the Lightning can run up the score tonight. Rangers + 1 ½ is a likely outcome, but is prohibitively expensive. I am back on the total. Look for some thing of a goaltender’s duel, and take the under.

Down 2-0, the Oilers are up against it, and need a win.  With home ice, the Oilers will have that coveted last change, so expect to see more from the McDavid line tonight.  The Oilers to date have managed to bounce back in these playoffs, but they face a very fine team who have been great on the road to date. Edmonton's defense and goaltending has not slowed the Avs down.  While I expect the Oilers will test Francouz much more tonight,  I am not confident of an Oiler win. As well as McKinnon's line has played, Kadre has been a beast in the playoffs, and no one has solved him yet. I do expect another fine game from McDavid, the best in the business.  Look for a better result from the Oilers, and take the Over today.

I think everyone expects a much better game out of the Lightning in Game 2, particularly considering Vasilevskiy’s and the Lightnings’ near magical ability to bounce back after a loss. Vasilevskiy was rusty and he must be smarting after such a disappointing start. The Lightning need at least 1 win on Rangers ice, to win the series, but Shesterkin stands in their way. The Lightning had nearly 40 shots on him in game one with limited results. I expect a goalie duel tonight, but am not confident of a Lightning victory at MSG. A sharp goalie has and can steal a series, and Shesterkin has the hot hand at the moment. I was wrong on the total last time, but I think I have it right today. Take the total to go under.

It is hard to imagine the Av’s and Oilers in a low scoring game after game one’s results. The worst fears around goal-tending came to pass with Smith pulled and Kuemper out. Francouz saw action against Nashville and played effectively, but was overwhelmed, as were both of the starting goaltenders, on Tuesday night. The game finished with 84 shots. Short of a goalie absolutely standing on his head, it will be all about the offense again on Thursday.

I expect we will see more from the Mc’s, (McDavid and McKinnon), and while I am sure both team will be working to adjust, I am confident of another high total. In fact I am surprised the total is not even higher for game 2. Take the Over again.

The Rangers face the Lightning on a short turn around, and will finally face a #1 goaltender, and a hot one at that. Let’s not forget that the Rangers did not dominate on offense this year. The matchup between goaltenders will likely define this series. Tampa could be inconsistent in the regular season, but experience counts in the playoffs, and the Lightning have been very solid in their first two series. They were not the best road team in the regular season either, but again have turned that around in the playoffs. The Lightning stymied the Panthers, the league’s top offense in 4 straight, with Vasilevskiy allowing just 3 goals total, so Tampa stand a very good chance of shutting down the Rangers who were 17th in scoring this season.

The Rangers had some success against the Lightning in th regular season, but are on a quick turn around after a tough seven game series against a very well-rested Lightning team. Their biggest weapon against the Canes was Shesterkin, and he will likely be just as tough in this series. The Rangers were badly out shot in the last series, and will not be facing a team like Carolina that could not win on the road. It is early days in this series, and I will wait and see on picking a side, but I am firm on the total today. Take Game 1 between the Lightning and Rangers to go UNDER.

The Oilers are off an unexpected series win vs the Flames, and most certainly, it ws all about offense and speed.  And McDavid. Other players came up big as well including late edition Kane.  The Oilers will meet their match today in a well-rested Avalanche team, also exceptionally fast, and big, and with another very good Mc-player.

Goaltending could be an issue in this series, although Smith got the job done, inspite of a couple of low moments.  Kuemper gave up more than his share of goals in the series vs the Blues as well.  I am not sure that low totals and a high octane series are very compatable.

In the regular season, it was all about the home team and the over when the Av's and Oilers met.  By all rights, this game should be fast and furious.  I am banking on the expected to happen until I see otherwise.  Shop around and take the over.

The Hurricanes have been completely dominant at home this season and throughout the play-offs, but the goal-tending in Game six might put this streak in question. Shesterkin, if anything, appears to be improving, but Raanta’s breakdown in game six could be an issue. Raanta’s play in this series has been just as lopsided home vs. away as the Hurricanes’, with a much higher save percentage in Carolina. The combination of net-minding and/or defensive play really has been superlative in all of the Hurricanes’ home dates.

Let’s not forget that it is not just the Canes who struggle on the road. The Rangers were not been the same team on the road, at 26-18 away and 33-10 at home this season. Even after last games’ higher total, I still think the most likely outcome today, is a low score. Look for Shesterkin to continue his fine play, Raanta to rebound, and Carolina to limit the Rangers’ opportunities. I am again wagering on the Under today.

The Rangers are at home in a must win situation. This series has been remarkably consistent, with each team winning at home, and the NHL’s best and 2nd best defensive teams keeping the score down. Can we expect a Rangers win tonight? It likely depends on Shesterkin. Carolina has out-shot the Rangers in their last three games, limited NY to just 17 shots last time out, and finally broken through with a power play goal in game five. They have played much better on the road vs the Rangers than they did vs. the Bruins, without results. Yet. With Raanta 0-4 in away games, I expect Carolina to be even tighter-checking on Saturday, and look for some special teams success. The Rangers will be all in, but will have their hands full. With Shesterkin in net and the balanced defence of the Hurricanes to deal with, you can count on another low scoring affair. 5 ½ goals is still available. I am on the UNDER. Take it and run!

The Blues showed their mettle and beat the Av’s in Colorado in come from behind style in game five. The Avalanche have beaten the Blues twice in St. Louis this season and, given their history in the second round of the playoffs, will not want to take any chances on a game seven. Look for all out offense from the Avalanche, but as in game five, don’t underestimate the Blues. St Louis is built for the playoffs, and actually out-performed Colorado in offense in the regular season.

I expect another high scoring game. The only two games that went under in this series were when Binnington was in net. Husso and Kuemper have not impressed, although the nature of this series has not favored defensive play. The Blues and Avalanche have a history of high-scoring games. We have seen three straight overs and I expect another one today. Take the Avalanche and Blues to go over in Game six.

Picking a winner tonight between the Flames and Oilers is a very tough call.  The Flames are up against it, and have been dominant on home ice this season, but they have not been able to solve a high-flying McDavid and the rest of the Oilers offense.  Goaltending has been a huge question mark for both teams, and an enormous pair of goalie gaffs in game four had a decided impact on the game.  Markstrom's issues are unusual, but the Oilers' speed on offense has been phenomenal.  I am not sure that any goaltender would have much success at this point.

The Flames likely will regroup today, and do have a very fine and balanced attack themselves, and considering the play we have seen to date, a low scoring affair is unlikely.  The Total has climbed as high as 7 today, and I too expect another high scoring game.  Shop around for the best odds and take the total to go over.

With the series now tied, Carolina returns home where they have been dominant all season, and unbeaten in the playoffs. The Rangers are far less impressive on the road, but have the huge wildcard in this series which is Shesterkin. After mixed results in the Penguins series, he has been lights out in series two. Raanta and the Hurricanes allowed an uncharacteristic 4 goals last game, but their ability to dominate on home ice cannot be overlooked. Their inability to score in this series is also significant. A very low scoring win for the Hurricanes is the most likely result, but a Rangers’ victory is not out of the cards. The Canes have yet to give up more than 2 goals on home ice in the playoffs, and facing the League’s best goalie, another low total is a more dependable wager than picking a side on Thursday. I am sticking with the Under again today.

The loss of Binnington seems to have been a very big blow to the Blues, and their anger against Kadre certainly backfired. The Blues replacement goaltender, Husso, while excellent in the regular season, has not been able to show the same stuff in the play-offs. Kadre and the Avalanche embarrassed the Blues at home in game 4 and the Avalanche have been dominant on home ice this season. Should we count the Blues out today? The odds-makers would certainly suggest so. Call me contrarian, but I think that the Blues, with their backs to the wall, will make a game of it today. They bounced back in Game 2 after being badly outplayed in the opening game. With the very high odds available on the Av’s, the puck line looks very respectable. Look for a  bounce-back from Husso and St Louis.  Take the Blues on the puck line to keep this one close.  St Louis + 1 1/2...

In the Flames/Oilers series it seems that we can expect the unexpected. After 2 barn-burners, game three came in with the under. The stat I did not expect to see was Mike Smith with a lower save average than Jacob Markstrom. 40 year old Smith has been a very successful goalie and looks to have found some of his “old” form, but Markstrom will need to be better if the Flames are to have any success. It is not really the fault of Markstrom; the Oilers have been dazzling on offense. The Oilers are peaking right now and that McDavid line is unstoppable. Even a wounded Drysatl was full marks in game three, and Kane had a hat trick on Sunday and is sixth in play off points. Perhaps one exceptional line can win a series after all. The Flames do not yet have a solution for the Oilers’ speed, and really only won Game one in Calgary through goalie ineptitude. I am on the home side tonight. Take the Oilers to win

One very good and one exceptional goaltender, and the first and second-ranked defensive teams in the regular season have made this a very low-scoring series. The Hurricanes have been completely consistent to date, losing all road games, but game 3 was their best road effort yet, out-shooting the Rangers by a wide margin. Special teams played a big role. Essentially, the Rangers scored on their PP, and the Hurricanes couldn’t. I am not convinced that Carolina will not win on the road tonight, but Shesterkin in top form (as he seems to be now) is a huge limiting factor. Look for Carolina to do what they do best, and hinder the Rangers’ offense. They were the regular season’s best penalty-killers, so should have an edge in the limited penalty opportunities. All three previous games have gone under and 5 ½ goals is now available. Take today’s game to continue the pattern of low scoring meetings. I am wagering on the Under again.

The Blues are at home, and undoubtedly stirred up by the questionable hit on Binnington.  Husso is back in the net, and while he shone in the regular season, he hasn't shown as well in the playoffs.  The Blues will be fired up, but are in a precarious position, and will need to focus on the game.  Kadre will be a target today, but like him or not, he has been a force and a distraction in this series. 

The Avalanche bounced back after being stymied in the 2nd game in Denver, and can only benefit from the loss of Binnington.  I am looking for a bit of a hornet's nest today, with a lack of discipline a real possibility, and more than the average numbers of goals scored.  With two very good offenses ready and waiting today , take the Over.

With the Panthers facing elimination on the road, and Vasilevskiy playing stand-out hockey, another Tampa Bay victory is in the cards. It is telling that the Panthers, with the top ranked offense in the regular season, have just 1 player in the top 25 for playoff points. The Lightning are second only to the Oilers in goals scored, and although Kucherov has been sensational, the Lightning are getting balanced scoring. Vasilevskiy is a money goaltender. Note his uncanny ability to rebound after a loss. Well, he hasn’t lost in five games now, and I expect another fine outing from him. And, let’s not underestimate the role of the Lightning defense in this series.

The Panthers’ style of play may just not translate in the playoffs. The Lightning are a very experienced side and know how to finish. I am wagering on them sweeping the series. Take the Lightning to win.

This "barn burner' style series returns to Edmonton with the series tied up, not something the Flames wished for.  The Oilers are very good at home, and the home team has been very successful when these two teams meet.  The Flames appeared to have no real answer for the Oiler's blazing fast play, and Markstrom has not been his usual dominant self.  The Oiler's goal-tending, although better in game two, is still an issue.  I expect Sutter, the Flames' no nonsense coach, to have his club motivated tonight, but McDavid is really carrying the Oilers, and showing that he really is the very best.  I wouldn't want to pick a winner tonight, but another high total seems likely.  Take tonight's total to go over again.

Florida is a very good road team, and will need to be tonight, facing the Lightning down 2-0 and in Tampa Bay. That formidable and explosive offfense has not been evident yet, and the inept PP in a big issue. Vasilevskiy is an even bigger issue.  He has been terrific in net for the Lightning, and appears to be peaking at just the right moment.  As good as the  Panthers are on the road, they face a very good home team tonight.  The Lightning have won all three meetings between the two clubs this year, and are experienced play off performers, not something to be said about Florida.  I like Tampa Bay's chances for 3-0, but I especially like the total today. Bet on Bobrovski and Vasilevskiy, and take the total to go under.

The Blues and Avalanche move to St Louis, with the series split. Binnington was solid again in game 2 as the Blues rebounded with a solid and deserving win. They shut down the Av’s dynamic offense, limiting them to just 31 shots-for after the 54 shots allowed in game one. The Blues are a good home team and the Av’s are much less dominating on the road. The Avs are still favored, and with that round two monkey on their back are expected to respond in a big way. Binnington seems to have found that “lights out” form, and the Blues’ size and structure make them a tough play-off match up. The Blues limited a very good Wild offense to just 5 goals in the last three games of the first round. Now with that critical Blues road win, this is a very different series.

Tonight’s game could be tighter than expected. I think St Louis can keep this game close but the odds on the puck line are very high.  Today's best bet is on the total.  Take the Blues and Avs to go under today.

Game one was quite a ride, with a total of 15 goals scored.  I expected the Flames to step out on offense, but 9 goals was a surprise.  Markstrom allowing 6 was a second shock.  Cooler heads will prevail today but considering the firepower here, a high total is still likely.  The Oilers goal-tending had some very large question marks throughout the season, and those issues appear to be unresolved.  I expect a much better performance from Markstrom and the Flames' defense today, but McDavid will likely still do some damage.  The Flames have a balanced and potent offense, and likely will prevail, but the total is the better bet today.  Take this game to go over.

Shesterkin re-found his form and Raanta was excellent in game one, as he has often been in the playoffs.  While the Rangers dominated play for much of the game, the Hurricanes, 1st in defense in the regular season, do not give up many goals.  They are also unbeaten at home in the play offs.  The Rangers were gifted the first series, scoring well against a third string goalie.  Goals may be scarce today.  Carolina has played a very disciplined style in their last two outings, staying out of the penalty box, but will struggle to put the puck in the net against Shesterkin.  I like the Canes' chances, but prefer the total today.  Take the New York and Carolina to go under the total.

It took them 20 minutes to get going, but from the second period on, the Avalanche were very much like their namesake, unstoppable. Only an incredible 51 save performance from Binnington kept the Blues from embarrassment. Will we see a repeat from Binnington? That kind of outing must be exhausting; I can’t see any goalie keeping the score down if Colorado continues such dominant play.

I expected more of the Blues, but good teams have put up some high totals against them this season. We will see how they perform at home.

In games that mattered coming down the stretch the Avalanche were the complete package, getting solid defense and goal-tending as well as their scintillating offense. Colorado is a huge favorite, and rightly so today. Look for the Avs to solve Binnington. Take them to win on the puck line at -1 ½.

It is game one in the Battle of Alberta, a series of huge importance in that Province. The Flames and Oilers both have very potent offenses but Calgary has a solid edge in defensive play. This very easily could be another of the home team-dominant series we have seen thus far. The Flames have ruled the roost at home this season, and against the Oilers, winning three games to one.  Calgary, away from the stifling pace set by the Stars, may be able to step out this series. Oilers’ goalie Smith has had mixed results in the playoffs, so I will take the consistent play of Markstrom in net. The wild card today is the Oilers’ McDavid, who is playing inspired hockey, but the Flames have a much more balanced team, and with home ice advantage, have the last change. This early in the series it is difficult to predict the likely total, but I am convinced of a Flames home victory. They aren’t the best odds, but it is my NHL best bet today.

The Blues won their last three games vs. the Wild in impressive fashion, getting great goal tending from a resurgent Binnington, and scoring 5 goals a game. The Blues have a very balanced and impressive attack and are tough to play against in a play-off situation.

The Av’s swept the Predators, but were playing against a second string goalie. No one doubts Colorado’s offense, but the Blues will not be such an easy opponent. The Avalanche haven’t played in well over a week, so when does rested become rusty? The Blues have had enough time to restore, but a better connection to game action.

I think today’s game may be closer than expected. An Av’s win would not surprise me, but don’t count a motivated and experienced Blues team out entirely. The Blues were a fine road team in the regular season and in the playoffs this year. Take the Blues on the puck line at +1 ½.

I like the Flames chances today, but the odds are prohibitive considering how close the series has been.  Hats off to the Stars for playing their tight defensive game successfuly against an offensively-gifted team and to Oettinger who has saved this series for the Stars to date.  The Stars were not a good road team this year and with Markstrom in net, their offense will be limited today but the possibility of overtime or an empty net goal makes today's total look a little light. I expect an all-out assault by the Flames' forwards.  Shop around and take the over today.

The Rangers are at home, facing the Penguins in the deciding game. Crosby is still questionable, a huge blow if he is out or compromised. Domingue will likely still be in goal for the Penguins, and the Rangers appear to have solved him; he has allowed 4 goals in his each of his last 2 games. Shesterkin has not been his Vezina-quality self in this series, giving up 3 goals in each of his last two games, and with a very unlikely save-percentage for the last part of the series.

The Rangers will have the final change, a distinct advantage in a tight series. Every game in this series has gone over, and it isn’t unreasonable to expect the same today. Crosby or no, the Penguins won’t go easily.

Take the Rangers and Penguins to go OVER again today.

Down to the wire, and on Toronto's home ice, the Leafs and Lightning will likely do what they do best, which is step on the gas on offense. Both Campbell and Vasilevskiy are allowing more than 3.3 goals a game,and with save percentages of below .900.  The Leafs' fine forwards, and in particular, Austin Matthews are bound and determined to make it out of the first round this time, but the Lightning have been here before.  Five of the six games in this series have gone over, and with an expected tight game, overtime or an empty net is a distinct possibility.  Take the Leafs and Lightning to continue the trend and go OVER the total today.

Home ice has been such a huge advantage in this series that it is hard to ignore. Carolina was very successful against the Bruins in the regular season, 32-8 at home, and has the better performing goal-tender in Raanta. The last change has been a huge benefit in this series; no road team has even come close to winning a game. The ‘Canes have been very successful in limiting the Bruins’ big three at home, but will need to still do a better job with Marchand today, and hope for some power play opportunities.

There are just too many plus factors for the Hurricanes to go against them today. This team was the leading defensive team in the league, and defense ultimately wins games and series. I am wagering on Carolina to win this game and this series.

The Flames and Stars have been less than their namesakes as far as offense goes.  With the Stars at home on Friday and with the final change, don't look for it to get any easier for the Flames' offense to break out.  Both goaltenders have been terrific, and the Stars have continually set the pace of this series. Dallas is a far better team when playing at home.  With Calgary's potential on offense, it is tempting to expect a break-out, but kudos to the Stars for sticking to their game plan. Expect more of the same slow tempo tonight and take the UNDER.

If Vasilevskiy’s amazing record of rebounding after a loss is to continue and Tampa Bay is to stave off elimination, he and the Lightning will have to better control the Leafs’ impressive offense. I am not sure if the Lightning are ready to bow out, especially at home. The trend in this series since the second game has been towards the over, but I am expecting tighter, more conservative play in game 6. The Leafs’ addition of Giordano has solidified their defense, and Campbell, to date in the series at least, has arguably out-played Vasilevskiy. In the end defense and goal-tending wins games, and both teams will play that way today. Look for a result similar to game one and take the UNDER today.