My 10* Division Game of the Month (Metropolitan) is on the NY Islanders at 7:05 ET.

The New York Islanders finished one point behind the Washington Capitals for first place in the Metropolitan Division last season (104-to-103). Both squad disappointed in the playoffs in 2019, as the Caps lost a first-round series against the Hurricanes in seven games, after taking a 2-0 lead. As for the Isles, they swept the Pens in the opening round but then got swept by Carolina in the second round. However, all-in-all, it was an excellent season for New York and head coach Barry Trotz in his first season with the Isles. Trotz, who guided the Capitals to their first Stanley Cup championship in 2017-18 before a contract dispute led him to move north, won the Jack Adams Award as coach of the year in the 2018-19 season.

Washington opened its season Wednesday night in St Louis, against the defending champs. After the Blues raised their championship banner, they took a two-goal lead in the opening eight minutes but relying on its experience, Washington settled down, tied the score in the second period and won 3-2 when Jakub Vrana scored 2:51 into overtime. Goalie Braden Holtby has seen his win total dip in each of the last three seasons, from a career-high 48 in 2015-16 to just 32 last season. He got off to a shaky start against the Blues, who scored on two of their first three shots. However, he settled down as the Caps came back to win. That said, rookie goaltender Ilya Samsonov is expected to make his first NHL start, tonight.

New York pretty much stood pat and will basically feature the same roster from last season. The Islanders allowed the fewest goals in the league last season but did sustain a significant loss with the exodus of goaltender Robin Lehner (25-13-5, 2.13 GAA and .930 SP). However, Thomas Greiss (23-14-2) posted a 2.28 goals-against average and .927 save percentage to form an imposing tandem with Lehner. The Isles replaced Lehner with former Colorado netminder Semyon Varlamov. Greiss will be the team's No. 1 goalie and gets the start here in the team's season opener. Mathew Barzal, the top point producer in each of his first two seasons (62 LY and 85 the season before), centers the top line of Jordan Eberle (19 goals) and captain Anders Lee (team-high 28 goalies). Brock Nelson will skate alongside Josh Bailey on the second line, after each eclipsed 50 points last season. Veterans Nick Leddy and Johnny Boychuk plus youngsters Ryan Pulock and Devon Toews are part of a deep blue line.

Tough spot for Washington, which is coming off a nice comeback win Wednesday at St Louis. The Caps play tonight at the NYI and then return home to face Carolina, which eliminated them in last season's opening round. Isles are the play.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Cal Flames at 9:00 ET.

My 10* NHL Game of the Week is on the Was Caps at 8:00 ET.

The two most recent Stanley Cup champions will take the ice on Wednesday, as St Louis (2019 champs) will host Washington (2018 champs) at the Enterprise Center, previously known as the Scottrade Center. The Blues will hoist their championship banner before the game but as reigning Conn Smythe and Selke Trophy recipient Ryan O'Reilly notes, "I think (the banner raising is) the last reflection before you start the journey again to the next one. Once it's up, it's back to work to do it again. I'm excited for that. The best part of the journey is playing the game and being together as a group." Speaking of "a group," St Louis returns much of the same roster that led the team to the franchise's first-ever title. The Caps exorcised their playoff demons by winning the 2018 Stanley Cup but last season was eliminated in the first round by Carolina, after taking a 2-0 lead (same old, same old).

Washington owns a roster with very few flaws. AlexOvechkin, Nicklas Backstrom and former Blue T.J. Oshie headline a Washington team that kept much of its potent offensive firepower in the fold, save for Brett Connolly (Florida). The most significant offseason change affected the team's blue line, as Brooks Orpik retired and the club acquired Radko Gudas from Philadelphia for fellow defenseman Matt Niskanen. Perennial Norris Trophy contender John Carlson still anchors a solid defense in front of Braden Holtby, who remains a solid netminder.

The Blues return the bulk of their championship team, losing only winger Pat Maroon to the Tampa Bay Lightning via free agency and swapping defenseman Joel Edmundson to the Carolina Hurricanes for defenseman Justin Faulk. Faulk is a three-time All-Star and joins captain Alex Pietrangelo, Colton Parayko, Jay Bouwmeester, Vince Dunn and Carl Gunnarsson along the back line in front of Jordan Binnington, who sported a 24-5-1 record with a 1.89 goals-against average and .927 save percentage en route to being named a Calder Trophy finalist. Vladimir Tarasenko eclipsed 30 goals for the fifth straight season with a club-best 33 tallies, while O'Reilly collected team-leading totals in both assists (49) and points (77) in his first season with the Blues.

It's only Game 1 of an 82-game season but I 'LOVE' the visiting Caps in this one. We all know just how hard it is to repeat in the modern NHL. There's a reason so few teams can do it (and why it was so rare the Penguins pulled it off recently). The Blues' 26-game playoff run was taxing, especially since they were playing such a heavy brand of hockey. Many players spent the summer not only celebrating but recovering from significant injuries. In the Blues' amazing postseason run last year, they were a dominating 10-3 on the road but just 6-7 at home. Take the price!

Good luck...Larry

My NHL 10* Game of the Week is on the Bos Bruins at 8:08 ET.

The Boston Bruins have won SIX previous NHL championships (most recently hoisted the Stanley Cup in 2011) but they have never before played host to Game 7 of a Stanley Cup Final. As for the Blues, they are looking for the franchise's first-ever NHL championship after entering the series 0-12 over three previous trips to the finals. St Louis had a chance to close things out at home in Game 6 on Sunday but Boston dominated the contest from the start and won, 5-1. This contest marks the 17th time the finals have gone seven games, with the home team going 12-4 in the previous 16 instances.

Rookie Jordan Binnington will once again step "between the pipes," giving him a second chance to set the single postseason rookie win total of 16 (he already owns the record for road wins with nine). Binnington allowed four goals on 31 shots in Sunday's Game 6 loss but the Blues are counting on the fact that he has posted a 7-2 record with a 1.86 goals-against average in games after defeats in the playoffs. Ryan O'Reilly has scored four goals and set up another in his last three games to push his overall playoff point total to 21 (seven goals, 14 assists), matching a franchise record with Hall of Famers Doug Gilmour (1986), Bernie Federko (1986) and Brett Hull (1990). However, Jaden Schwartz (the team's leading goal-scorer in the playoffs with 12), has yet to score this series.Another HUGE factor has been the Blues' inability to convert on the power play, as they are just 1-of-18 in the series!

I was "all over" the Bruins in Game 6 and noted prior to that contest that Rask was "the key" and he sure made me look smart in making 28 saves (12 came while St Louis was on the power play). Rask will take the ice tonight with the lowest GAA of any playoff goalie (1.93 per) and the best SP (.938) of any netminder. Boston's No. 1 line (Marchand, Pastrnak & Bergeron) each own nine postseason goals, with Marchand leading all players with 23 postseason points.

I WANT Boston's experience in this Game 7. Patrice Bergeron, Brad Marchand, David Krejci, captain Zdeno Chara and Tuukka Rask have all previously traversed this terrain by suiting up in a winner-take-all contest in Vancouver in 2011 (note: Chara will play in his 14th Game 7, passing Hall of Famers Patrick Roy and Scott Stevens for the most in the NHL). Yes, Binnington has been terrific this postseason, especially coming off a loss (see above) but he has NOT been better than Rask (as just noted, above). Let me add that in three "elimination" games this postseason, Rask is 3-0 with a 1.33 GAA, having saved 145 of 149 shots (.973 SP!). I noted above that this will mark the first time that the Bruins will host a Game 7 of a Stanley Cup Final. Let me add that the City of Boston hasn't hosted a Game 7 in a championship round since the NBA's Celtics in 1984 (note: Celtics beat the Lakers 1111-102 in that one). Unlike the St Louis players and fans who were not up to the challenge in Game 6, I expect the Bruins (particularly Rask, who should win the Conn Smythe) and their fans will 'rule the day!'

Good luck...Larry

My 10* NHL Game of the Year is on the Bos Bruins at 8:00 ET.

I'm sure you've all heard this before. The St Louis Blues were through Jan 2. As the team got set to play its first game of 2019 (on Jan 3), St Louis sat at the bottom of the pack in the NHL with a 15-18-4 record and the fewest points in the NHL. Fast-forward five months later and the Blues are on the verge of completing a stunning turnaround. ONE more win (in Game 6 or 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals) and St Louis would capture its first Stanley Cup.The teams split the first two games of the series but Boston exploded for a 7-2 win in Game 3, chasing rookie goaltender Jordan Binnington after he allowed FIVE goals on 24 shots. However, the Blues rebounded to win Game 4 (4-2) and Game 5 in Boston (2-1), as Binnington stopped 59 of 62 shots (.952 SP).

Boston enters this "must-win" game getting just two assists in the past two losses from its No. 1 line. Brad Marchand, Patrice Bergeron and David Pastrnak combined for 106 goals in the regular season and have 55 points in the playoffs. Bottom line is, Boston's play the last two games hasn't been good enough. The Blues' physical style is bothering the Bruins, forcing key mistakes that wind up in the back of the net. Of particular note, St. Louis has been the better team in 5-on-5 play AND the Bruins' potent power play is 0-for-5 in the past two games, after converting in each of the previous SEVEN contests (that includes Boston's 4-for-4 performance on 4 shots in Game 3).

The Blues' turnaround coincided with the arrival of Jordan Binnington, who went 24-5-1 following his promotion from the minors in early January and is coming off his best game of the Finals with a 38-save performance in Game 5. Center Ryan O'Reilly is riding a four-game point streak and has been HUGE in the back-to-back wins, with three goals and an assist.

Here's the setting. The Bruins are facing elimination Sunday night in Game 6 and will be playing in what should be a charged-up Enterprise Center. The cheapest ticket on the open market, according to StubHub, is going for more than $2,000. St Louis can become the first team in four years to win the Cup on its home ice and can also win the Cup for the first time in its 52-year history. It all seems too perfect for me. Note that while St Louis is 9-3 on the road during the postseason, the Blues are only 6-6 here at home. Yes, Binnington matched a postseason rookie record with 15 wins and set another with nine road victories but he's NOT the best goalie this postseason. That 'title' belongs to Boston's Tuukka Rask. He owns the postseason's lowest GAA (1.97) and best save percentage (.937), while Binnington's GAA (2.46) ranks 10th among all playoff goalies and his .913 SP is tied for 12th. St Louis may win its first-ever Cup but the Blues WON'T win it here in Game 6!

Good luck...Larry

My NHL 10* Game of the Week is on the StL Blues at 8:00 ET.

The St Louis Blues beat the Bruins 3-2 (OT) in Game 2 of the Cup Finals to ties the series at one-all, but after waiting 49 years between hosting games in the Stanley Cup Final, got steamrolled by the Bruins 7-2 in Game 3. The Bruins scored four power-play goals on as many shots, defenseman Tory Krug (goal, three assists) became the first-ever Bruin to record four points in Cup Finals game and SEVEN different Boston players scored. Boston's "Perfection Line"( Patrice Bergeron, Brad Marchand and David Pastrnak) combined for five points in Game 3. Goalie Rask made 27 saves and owns an NHL-best 1.91 GAA and .939 SP in the postseason.

As for the Blues, standout rookie goalie Jordan Binnington was pulled for the first time in 52 starts this season, after allowing FIVE goals on 19 shots. However, most feel that only ONE of those scores could be blamed entirely on Binnington, who got little help from his defense. Binnington will be back in goal tonight and St Louis head coach Craig Berube said, "My confidence level in him is really high" Berube added that he was at a loss as to why his club has been whistled for penalties as much as it has in the first three games of Stanley Cup Final. "First of all, we were the least penalized team in the league in the first three rounds; now all of a sudden we've taken 14 penalties in one series."

Let's not forget, St Louis actually came out and controlled the first six minutes on Saturday night, taking its cue from a revved-up crowd seeing the first finals game in the city since 1970. The Blues outshot Boston 5-0 out of the gate, but Rusk was up to the challenge. Boston converted its first power play in only 21 seconds and gradually choked the life out of the home crowd. It's "NOW or NEVER" for the Blues in Game 4. That's my bet.

Good luck...Larry

My NHL 10* Game of the Week is on the SJ Sharks at 8:08 ET.

The St Louis Blues have outscored the Sharks 7-1 since the controversial hand-pass goal that ended Game 3 and put them in a 1-2 'hole' in their series with the San Jose Sharks. However, the back-to-back wins mean the Blues are now in a position to "punch their ticket" to the Stanley Cup Final for the first time since 1970 with one more victory. Turnarounds are nothing new for the Blues this season, as they owned the NHL's worst record back on Jan 2! As for the San Jose Sharks, they aren't just facing elimination heading back to St. Louis for Game 6 of their Western Conference final, they are also facing questions about the availability of some key cogs in their lineup. San Jose captain Joe Pavelski (upper body), two-time Norris Trophy recipient Erik Karlsson (undisclosed) and Tomas Hertl (upper body) missed significant time in Sunday's 5-0 setback to St Louis while Joonas Donskoi (upper body) returned after being injured earlier in the contest.

San Jose head coach Peter DeBoer has shed little light on that topic ahead of the Sharks' potential elimination game Tuesday at Enterprise Center. "We're still alive," Sharks forward Logan Couture told reporters. "We've been in this spot before, going to Vegas down 3-2 in a very difficult building. St Louis is similar, it's a tough building against a good team. A structured team." St Louis comes into this contest off its most dominating performance of the playoffs. Jaden Schwartz recorded a hat trick and goalie Jordan Binnington made 21 saves for his first career playoff shutout."If you saw the game, you saw how good everyone on the team played," Binnington told Sportsnet after the game. "Everyone was outstanding, making the right decisions, playing hard and playing disciplined. That's a good team win." The rookie goaltender has turned aside 50 of 51 shots in his last two contests.

This scenario seems too good to be true. St Louis made the Cup final in each of its first three seasons but hasn't returned since. Awaiting the Blues if they win tonight are the Boston Bruins. The last time the Blues reached the championship round, they lost to the Bruins, a result forever framed by the famous image of Bobby Orr flying through the air after scoring the Cup-winning goal. Again, you can't make this stuff up. However, I will note that while the Blues are 7-2 on the road this postseason, they are a modest 4-5 at home! As for the Sharks, they overcame a 3-1 deficit in the first round against Vegas by winning Games 5, 6 and 7. San Jose then won a Game 7 vs Colorado, which makes them a PERFECT 4-0 in elimination games this postseason. Make that 5-0, as this series is headed for a Game 7.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the StL Blues at 8:08 ET.

A hand pass by San Jose's Timo Meier, undetected by the officials and not reviewable under NHL rules, led to San Jose defenseman Erik Karlsson's goal 5:23 into overtime on Wednesday. The 5-4 victory puts San Jose up 2-1 in this best-of-seven series. Karlsson, the two-time Norris Trophy recipient joined the ageless Joe Thornton with two scores in Game 3, as the 39-year-old became the oldest player in NHL history to record a multi-goal performance in a playoff game. Meanwhile, St Louis Blues head coach Craig Berube told reporters on that his team is intent on moving past the controversy. "It is hard (to move on), for sure. It's not easy to do. It's a test. That's how you look at it," Berube said Thursday. "It's a tough play, tough call, but it's just a test, and we've been tested over and over throughout the season and the playoffs, and I think we're pretty good at bouncing back. That's the way I look at it. It's a mental thing more than anything."

Lost in the controversy was Martin Jones' performance in Game 3, as the oft-criticized goalie rebounded from allowing four goals in the second period to stop the next 15 shots that came his way. "It gets lost when we tie it up and win it in overtime," captain Joe Pavelski said. "But the critical saves he makes down the stretch ... (that) buys us some time to tie that thing up, were pretty important, pretty special." In contrast, Jones' "opposite number," StL rookie goalie Jordan Binnington (1.89 GAA and .927 SP in the regular season), has stopped just 46 of 56 shots (.821 SP) in losing Games 1 and 3.

However, it's IMPOSSIBLE to ignore what's been going on with San Jose. After overcoming a 3-1 deficit against Vegas in winning Games 5, 6 and 7, the Sharks have alternated wins and loses in the team's last 10 games, winning Games 1, 3, 5 and 7 vs the Avs (lost Games 2, 4 and 6), with that trending continuing this series (won Games 1 and 3, while losing Game 2). I've been 'dialed in' on these two teams (8-1 in contests involving at least one of these teams in the 2019 playoffs) and I'll 'go to the well' again here, expecting the Sharks to follow their above-mentioned pattern, one more time.

Good luck...Larry

My NHL 10*Game of the Week is on the Car Hurricanes at 8:08 ET.

The Boston Bruins needed to come from behind to win each of their first two series but they have outscored the Hurricanes 11-4 in winning the first two games of this Eastern Conference finals against the Carolina Hurricanes. The 2-0 start in this series has extended Boston's postseason winning streak to FIVE in row (since trailing Columbus 2-1 in the previous round). For Carolina, the Hurricanes return home for the second time in this postseason facing a 2-0 deficit. They overcame that in the first round against the defending Stanley Cup champion Washington Capitals, winning all three home games in that series and then winning a Game 7 in Washington.

Boston took Game 1 by a 5-2 score, then won 6-2 in Game 2, despite its vaunted No. 1 unit contributing only two assists. It was the team's third line which came up big, as Charlie Coyle, Marcus Johansson and Dalton Heinen combined for seven points to boost their totals to 11 goals and 17 assists in the playoffs. As good as Boston's No. 1 line is, the Bruins have had 21 players post at least one point in this spring's playoffs (19 players have at least one goal!). Then there is goalie Tuukka Rask, who has stopped 50 of 54 shots in the first two games (.926 save percentage).

Speaking of goaltenders, Petr Mrazek was hurt in Game 2 of Carolina's second round series against the New York Islanders and did not return until the series opener against Boston. He maintains the injury and subsequent layoff were not factors in giving up 10 goals in the first two games (.808 SP). “I’m feeling good, no issue with that,” Mrazek said. “I don’t think it was that long a break, maybe nine or 10 days. I was feeling pretty good. I’m not going to look past, just look forward to the next one.” However, head coach Rod Brind’Amour acknowledged that he is contemplating a change in net for Game 3, which would mean a switch to Curtis McElhinney, who earned three wins by turning aside 71 of 75 shots in 7 1/2 periods against New York (.947 SP).

Either way, expect to see an improved Hurricanes team in Game 3. Obviously, the Hurricanes face a "must-win situation" when they host the Bruins tonight. The good news is, Carolina is a PERFECT 5-0 at home in the 2019 playoffs, outscoring their opponents 22-7. I'm "all over" Carolina in Game 3 on Tuesday night.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* West Conf Finals Game 1 Stunner is on the SJ Sharks at 8:08 ET.

St Louis owned the fewest points in NHL back on Jan 3 but the team's fortunes changed with the insertion of rookie Jordan Binnington as its No. 1 goalie. He posted a 24-5-1 mark with five shutouts and 1.89 goals-against average during the regular season and he's more than held his own in his first Stanley Cup action, posting  a 2.39 GAA and .915 SP. The Blues upset the favored Winnipeg Jets in a six-game first-round series (won all three road games), then knocked off the Dallas Stars in double-overtime in Game 7 of the second round.

San Jose finished second in the Pacific Division with 101 points (second-most points in the West) but promptly fell behind Vegas 3-1 in the first round. However, the Sharks overcame that deficit to take the series in a Game 7 at home. San Jose trailed 3-0 in the third period in that deciding contest but four, third-period goals got then into OT, where they won it. San Jose's second round series win did not come any easier, as they alternated wins and losses with the Avs, clinching the series with yet another Game 7 home win, 3-2.

The Sharks won two of three meetings with the Blues in the regular season, but that hardly matters here. San Jose has won three of the five series in the playoffs against St Louis, including a six-game victory in the 2016 conference final. While that series is not really relevant to this year's matchup, it is worth mentioning that San Jose's win over St Louis back in 2016, sent the Sharks to their only trip to the Stanley Cup Final (lost in six games to the Pens). As for the Blues, they last reached the Stanley Cup Final way back in 1970, getting swept by the Bruins (remember Bobby Orr's Game 4 winning goal in OT).

The 2016 matchup may be well in the rear-view mirror but both teams feature key players who were involved in the teams' last playoff meeting. Joe Pavelski, Logan Couture, Joe Thornton, Brent Burns and Marc-Edouard Vlasic for the Sharks; Jaden Schwartz, Vladimir Tarasenko and Alex Pietrangelo for the Blues.Binnington's play has been the bigger story this year (regular and postseason) but DON'T overlook San Jose's Martin Jones. His postseason appeared headed 'south,' after being pulled twice in the first four games of the first-round series versus Vegas. However, he turned things around with a sizzling .928 save percentage over the team's last 10 games with San Jose winning SEVEN times.

The Blues are 5-1 on the road this postseason but the Sharks are 6-2 at home in SAP Center. It also good news that San Jose captain Joe Pavelski made a triumphant return from injury with a goal and an assist in Game 7 against Colorado. The Blues 'limp' into this series just 1-for-20 on the power play over their last six games. Expect San Jose to grab the Game 1 win.

Good luck...Larry

My NHL 10* Game 7 Decider is on the SJ Sharks at 9:00 ET.

The San Jose Sharks rebounded form a 3-1 deficit to oust the Vegas Golden Knights in the first round and opened this series with a 5-2 Game home win. The Colorado Avalanche have been swimming upstream throughout this best-of-7 series but after staving off elimination with a 4-3 home overtime victory on Monday, Colorado is one win away from advancing to the Western Conference finals for the first time since 2002. However, for that to happen, the Avs will have to break the pattern of the teams alternating wins and losses throughout the entire series.

We saw last night just how hard it is to win a Game 7 on the road. Dallas' Ben Bishop mad e 52 saves but the Stars still lost 2-1 in double-OT at St Louis. I won't over-think this. Here's the bottom line. San Jose has won 18 of its last 20 at home (playoffs included) versus Colorado. The Sharks erased a three-goal, third-period deficit in Game 7 of their opening round series against Vegas but this Game 7 win will come with much less drama. Play the Sharks. 

Good luck...Larry

My NHL 10* Game of the Week is on the Col Avalance at 10:08 ET.

The San Jose Sharks rebounded form a 3-1 deficit to oust the Vegas Golden Knights in the first round and they are fully aware that they'll likely see a very focused and determined Colorado Avalanche team in tonight's Game 6, as the Avs have their proverbial 'backs to the wall" in this one. "We faced three elimination games against Vegas (in the first round). We didn't go away easily, and I don't anticipate (Colorado is) going to either," San Jose coach Peter DeBoer told reporters on the heels of Saturday's 2-1 victory in Game 5.

The Sharks Tomas Hertl recorded his second multi-goal performance of the 2019 playoffs and third of his postseason career when he accounted for both goals in San Jose's Game 5 win. Logan Couture collected an assist on Hertl's power-play goal in the second period and his 13 points (NHL-best nine goals, four assists) are tied for the scoring lead with Boston's Brad Marchand and Avalanche forwards Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen. Much-maligned goalie Martin Jones has turned aside 21 of 22 shots on Saturday, improving his save percentage to .936 over the last eight games.

Colorado's Nathan MacKinnon (5 goals / 8 assists) saw his point streak halted at eight games in Saturday's 2-1 loss. Colorado's top line registered 41 shots on goal in the previous four games of the series but was limited to five on Saturday, Rantanen (6 goals / 7 assists) has recorded multi-point performances in three of Colorado's four home games, including a two-assist effort in Thursday's 3-0 win in Game 4. Expect the Avs' No. 1 line to respond tonight, in a big way.

Like Rantanen, Colorado goalie Philipp Grubauer has been a star at Pepsi Center during the 2019 playoffs. He owns a 3-1 record with a 1.69 goals-against average and .945 save percentage at home this postseason. San Jose is headed home after this one for a second straight Game 7 on its home ice.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the NY Islanders at 7:08 ET.

The New York Islanders shocked Pittsburgh by completing a four-game sweep and advance to the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs for just the second time in 26 years. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes (in the postseason for the first time since 2009) advanced to the conference semifinals by rebounding from deficits of 2-0 and 3-2 to eliminate the defending champions Caps, with a 4-3 double-OT win at Washington in Game 7. The Islanders allowed the fewest goals in the league (196) and then saw Robin Lehner post a 1.47 GAA and a .956 save percentage in sweeping the Pens. Carolina goaltender Petr Mrazek won 11 of his final 13 games in the regular season and then posted a 2.54 goals-against average against Washington.

A competitive series was expected but the Carolina Hurricanes, who were teetering on the brink of elimination under two weeks ago against the Caps, head into this Game 4 on a FIVE-game winning streak (Games 6 & 7 vs Washington plus Games 1-3 vs the NYI), looking to sweep their way into the Eastern Conference finals. "We're up 3-0, the last is the hardest, it always is," Carolina captain Justin Williams said after he scored the go-ahead goal midway into the third period of Wednesday's 5-2 win over New York. As for teh Islanders, New York will try to become just the fifth team in NHL history to rally and win a series after losing the first three games. "There's only one way to look at it. You have to earn the right to keep playing," Islanders captain Anders Lee said. "Game 4 is (Friday). We have to win it. That's all it is. We have to keep ourselves alive."

The Islanders never led in Game 3 but they were competitive from the get-go. The 5-2 final was deceiving, because the final two goals were empty-net tallies. Carolina's Curtis McElhinney became the oldest goalie to start his first Stanley Cup playoff game in place of Petr Mrazek, and more than held up his end of the bargain in Game 3 by turning aside 28 shots. Mrazek is nursing a lower-body injury and coach Rod Brind'Amour said on Thursday. "We can't rush a goalie back. ... When he's 100 percent, then we'll get him back in there." 

Whether it's Mrazek or McElhinney, I'm on the Islanders to avoid the sweep. Islanders head coach Barry Trotz has directed teams out of playoff deficits in the past and while an 0-3 hole may be asking too much, avoiding a sweep is NOT. After all, the last time a team swept a seven-game first-round series and then got swept in the second round was back in 1993 (Buffalo Sabres). New York scored 14 goals in sweeping the Pens but enters this game with just THREE goals on 88 shots in losing the first three of the series. That HAS to change, right? The bet says "NO sweep!"

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on the Col Avalanche at 10:08 ET.

The San Jose Sharks fell behind the Vegas Golden Knights three games-to-one but were able to extend that series to a Game 7, which they won 5-4 in OT. The Sharks needed to score FOUR goals in the third period of that contest to get into OT. San Jose now has a chance to take its own 3-1 lead in a series, when the Sharks play tonight in Denver against the Avalanche. San Jose won the series opener by twice erasing deficits before running away with a 5-2 win, lost Game 2 at home 4-3 but then in Game 3 at Pepsi Center, blew a 2-0 lead before Logan Couture scored two third-period goals for a 4-2 win. Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar showed plenty of emotion after his team's loss on Tuesday. "To me, we didn't consistently work for the puck, didn't talk (for) the puck and in turn our execution was poor," Bednar said after the game. "We made some bonehead decisions with the puck, too, at times. The bulk of their scoring chances come off turnover plays and mismanaging the puck and just poor execution."

Logan Couture's two third-period goals gave him a hat trick and an NHL-best nine postseason goals. Couture had 30 points (10 goals, 20 assists) during San Jose's run to the Stanley Cup in 2016 and his 43 postseason goals are one more than Sidney Crosby for the second-best total (Alex Ovechkin, 50) since he entered the league in 2010. Goalie Martin Jones allowed nine goals in the team's Game 2 and 3 losses to Vegas and then after allowing two goals on seven shots in Game 4, was benched. However, he returned in goal for Game 5 and has now allowed 14 goals in his last six starts, going 5-1 in that stretch!

Colorado's Nathan MacKinnon is giving Logan Couture a run for his money, as his second period goal in Game 3 extended his point streak to seven games (five goals, seven assists. The Avs surely don't want to fall behind 3-1, so figure to view this contest as almost a "must-win!' Home is where the heart is and while Colorado did stumble in Game 3, the Avs had won EIGHT in a row at home and owned a 13-3-1 mark in a 17-game stretch at the Pepsi Center, prior to Tuesday's loss. Expect Colorado to send this series back to San Jose tied at two-all.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* NHL Game of the Week is on the Dal Stars at 9:38 ET.

The St Louis Blues were last in the NHL (15-18-4) back on Dec 31 but fashioned one of the best mid-season turnarounds in NHL history by 30-10-5 to end teh regular season. St Louis’ fortunes turned around with the emergence of goaltender Jordan Binnington, who did not make his first NHL start until Jan 7. Binnington had played one game for the Blues in 2015-16, but set a franchise record for wins by a rookie, while finishing 24-5-1 with a league-leading 1.89 GAA (also had an impressive .927 save percentage). The Blues eliminated the Jets in six games and currently hold a 2-1 edge in their Western Conference semifinal, after taking Game 3 in Dallas, 4-3. St Louis is a perfect 4-0 on the road this postseason but Dallas is in a familiar position. The Stars also Game 3 at home in their opening round before rattling off three straight victories to oust Nashville. "Guys that have been in this situation, you know the ups and downs," Dallas defenseman Ben Lovejoy said. "What we did in the first round is came out and played probably our best game of the playoffs in Game 4. We need that effort again."

Jordan Binnington tied a league record by notching his first 30 wins in only 39 games (playoffs included) with his Game 3 victory but he is allowing 2.65 GPG, almost a goal per game higher than in the regular season. St Louis surrendered the lead THREE times in Game 3 but came away with a one-goal win in what was in a thrilling contest, particularly over the final seven minutes of play. Is that good or bad news? As for the Stars, has falling short despite repeated comebacks in Game 3, sapped the 'life' out of them? My bet says "No way!" Ben Bishop is a veteran goaltender and has played better than Binnington this postseason, allowing 2.26 GPG (to Binnington's 2.65), with a .931 SP (Binnington's is .910). This series heads back to St Louis, tied at two-all!

Good luck...Larry

My 10* NHL Game of the Month is on the NY Islanders at 7:08 ET.

This second round Eastern Conference series was expected to be another showdown between teh Caps and Pens. However, the New York Islanders shocked Pittsburgh by completing a four-game sweep, while the Hurricanes advanced to the conference semifinals by overcoming a pair of two-goal deficits to edge the defending Stanley Cup champion Washington Capitals, 4-3, in double overtime Wednesday night. The win capped a series of comebacks by Carolina, which trailed the series two games to none and fell behind three games to two with a 6-0 loss in Game 5 on Saturday night. The Hurricanes are in the playoffs for the first time since 2009 and have waited almost 10 years to play in the second round of the NHL playoffs, while the Islanders are in teh second round for just the second time in 26 years! Carolina and New York are meeting for the first time since Jan 8, when the Hurricanes posted a 4-3 victory to prevent a four-game sweep in the regular-season series.

Carolina goaltender Petr Mrazek won 11 of his final 13 games in the regular season and then posted a 2.54 goals-against average against Washington. Defenseman Jaccob Slavin led the team in points in the first round with his club-best nine assists (no goals), while rookie Warren Foegele had four goals. Three more Carolina players chipped in three goals to help eliminate the Caps.

Jordan Eberle led the Islanders in goals (four) and points (six), while Mathew Barzal notched a club-best five assists. Thomas Greiss turned aside 129 of 136 shots (.949 SP) while playing in all four regular-season meetings with the Hurricanes but New York has handed the goaltending duties off to Robin Lehner for the postseason and he has posted a playoff-best 1.47 GAA and a .956 save percentage in the first-round series.

For the first time in the history of the four major North American pro sports leagues, every regular-season division champion was eliminated in the first round. However, despite their underdog status, there's nothing fluky about the Islanders and Hurricanes reaching the conference semifinals. New York was 26-14-3 after Jan 1, while Carolina was an even more impressive 30-12-2. That said, I strongly believe the edge here in Game 1 goes to New York, whose nine-day break is the longest for an NHL team in the potseason since the Chicago Blackhawks had nine days off heading into the Western Conference finals in 2015.

The Islanders have held five practices during their long break, but head coach Barry Trotz sensed something different Thursday morning. "You could tell that there's guys that are turning the switch on a little bit -- not that they've turned it off, they've done a really good job, but I think the urgency is definitely there," said Trotz, who coached the Capitals to the Stanley Cup title last season before joining the Islanders last June. "They're a little more business-like, if you will. They've been business-like right through, but this is just a little different level." The Islanders allowed the fewest goals in the league (196) and then saw Lehner post a 1.47 GAA and a .956 save percentage  in sweeping the Pens. The Hurricanes went just 3-for-25 with the man advantage in the first round, while the Islanders thwarted 10-of-11 power-play situations.Expect the well-rested Isles to grab Game 1.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* NHL Game of the Week is on the Car Hurricanes at 7:08 ET.

The Washington Capitals won all four regular season meetings with the Carolina Hurricanes and then took Game 1 and Game 2 of this first round series. However, Carolina responded with a 5-0 Game 3 win and a 2-1 Game 4 win to tie the series. Last Saturday, the defending champs answered those consecutive defeats at PNC Arena with a resounding 6-0 victory at home in Game 5. The Capitals return to Raleigh (NC) on Monday, hoping to eliminate the Hurricanes in Game 6 of their series.

Washington's Nicklas Backstrom had a four-point performance (two goals, two assists) in Saturday's 6-0 and has already matched last season's entire playoff goal total with five in this series (he has nine goals in his last 10 games, overall). Captain Alex Ovechkin collected one goal and two assists in Game 5 but he also made an impact on Saturday's game by stepping up his physical play with a season-high 11 hits.The bad news for the Caps is that T.J. Oshie (25 goals and 59 points in the regular season) is out indefinitely, after undergoing surgery on his broken collarbone.

The Hurricanes could receive a boost from an anticipated return of right winger Andrei Svechnikov, who was knocked out by an Alex Ovechkin punch in Game 3. Svechnikov was in the concussion protocol but has returned to on-ice activities. He scored two goals in Game 1. Head coach Rod Brind'Amour said he considered pulling goalie Petr Mrazek in favor of Curtis McElhinney during Saturday night's lopsided loss, but decided against that switch. The Hurricanes have stuck with goalie Petr Mrazek throughout the series and will do so again here.

Why not? Mrazek returns to Raleigh where he has turned aside 48 of 49 shots in the series! The Metropolitan Division was a crowded field this season. Washington won it with 104 points but four others made the postseason and 1st through 5th-place were separated by just SIX points. Carolina had 99 points, just FIVE fewer than Washington. The crowd in Raleigh has been a big factor in the series and you think home ice has mattered this series? How about this? The visiting team has yet to hold a lead in ANY of the five games in the series, so far. We are headed for a Game 7 in this one.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the San Jose Sharks at 10;00 ET.

San Jose opened its series against Vegas with a 5-2 Game 1 win. However, the Sharks have now lost THREE in a row to the Golden Knights, getting outscored 16-6. San Jose's beleaguered goaltender Martin Jones allowed two goals on seven shots in Tuesday's 5-0 setback, before being pulled for the second time in three contests in favor of Aaron Dell. In contrast, Vegas goalie Marc-Andre Fleury has turned aside 87 of 93 shots in his last three games and all 28 he faced on Tuesday, delivering his15th postseason shutout. Fleury improved his career goals-against average in the postseason to 2.58 (it's 2.51 in this series).

Clearly, San Jose is facing major goaltending issues, but head coach Peter DeBoer said Jones will start in Game 5.Let's NOT forget that Jones won 36 games this season, his FOURTH in a row with 30 or more victories (37, 35 & 30). During that span, his GAA have ranged from a low of 2.27 to a high of 2.94. Let's also remember that the Sharks rode the second-best home record in the Western Conference (were 25-11-5 at SAP Center during the regular season) to a second-place finish in the Pacific Division, eight points better than the Vegas Golden Knights.

Vegas beat San Jose 4-2 in last year's semifinals but the Golden Knights (109 points) were the better team, as the Sharks finished with 100 points. That's not the case this time around. Vegas may oust San Jose again in 2019 but NOT here in Game 5.

Good luck...Larry

My NHL 10* Situational Stunner is on the TB Lightning at 7:08 ET.

The Tampa Bay Lightning matched an NHL record for wins in a regular season (62) and took a 3-0 lead through the first period of their Game 1 with Columbus. However, since that opening period of this first-round series, the Lightning have been outscored a 12-2 in the last EIGHT periods by the Blue Jackets. Columbus earned a comeback 4-3 win on Wednesday, won Friday's Game 2 by the score of 5-1 and then took Sunday's Game 3 (back in Columbus) by a score of 3-1. What's going on here? We know this for sure, that only FOUR of 190 teams in NHL history have come back to win a best-of-seven playoff series after dropping the first three games. Game 4 is tonight and the Blue Jackets can win their first playoff series in franchise history (after 18 years), when they host the Presidents’ Trophy-winning Tampa Bay Lightning.

The Lightning played Game 3 without Nikita Kucherov, who led the league with 128 points in the regular season. Kucherov was suspended one game for a late in the third period of Game 2. Also, Victor Hedman, last year's Norris Trophy winner as the league's top defenseman, missed Sunday's game with an undisclosed injury and is considered doubtful for Tuesday. Clearly, more is needed from the team’s three 40-goal scorers, Kucherov, Steven Stamkos and Brayden Point. So far, the trio has yet to make the scoresheet in the series! We’ve won a lot of hockey games as a team,” Lightning forward Tyler Johnson told reporters after helping set up Sunday's goal. “We can definitely do it. If there’s a group that can, it’s us. We’ve just go to play the right way. Everyone’s got to step up. Everyone’s got to play a solid game, and we’ve got to make it a little bit harder.”

“The job’s not done, but at the same time this is fun,” Columbus center Matt Duchene told reporters after scoring for the second straight game in a 3-1 victory Sunday. “This has been unbelievable, and we want to finish the job and leave no doubt. Obviously, we have a great opportunity Tuesday at home in front of our fans. I think these fans deserve that we get the job done here at home.” Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky played a huge part in Columbus’ 7-1-0 finish to the regular season and after allowing three first-period goals in Game 1, has stopped 69 of the 71 shots he faced in the past eight periods (.972 save percentage).

The 1942 Toronto Maple Leafs, 1975 New York Islanders, 2010 Philadelphia Flyers and 2014 Los Angeles Kings are the only NHL teams to overcome an 3-0 deficit in a seven-game playoff series. The question here isn't, "Can Tampa Bay join that group?" Rather, it's can the Lightning find a way to win ONE game! Tampa Bay finished the third period of Game 3 with a 17-8 edge in shots, creeping within 2-1 on Ondrej Palat’s goal. Captain Steven Stamkos told reporters: “If anything, maybe we found a recipe to break some of their structure there." In just can't NOT play Tampa Bay in this spot. Remember, there is another goalie in this series, Andrei Vasilevskiy. He led the league with 39 wins this season, (2.40 GAA / .925 SP) and was 6-2-0 with a .948 save percentage against the Blue Jackets coming into the series. See you in Game 5!

Good luck...Larry

My NHL 10* Game of the Week is on the Car Hurricanes at 7:00 ET.

The Carolina Hurricanes lost Game 1 at Washington 4-2 and then went toe-to-toe with the defending Stanley Cup champs in Game 2, before Caps veteran Brooks Orpik scored 1:48 into overtime Saturday to give Washington a 4-3 victory and a 2-0 lead. I was just Orpik's fourth goal in his 151st playoff game! The Hurricanes have seen a pair of late rallies fall short in the first two games of this first-round series, after losing all FOUR regular-season meetings with Washington. Tonight,playoff hockey returns to Raleigh, NC for the first time since May 26, 2009.

Ncklas Backstrom scored twice to highlight the Capitals' three-goal first period in Thursday's 4-2 win and joined T.J. Oshie with first-period goal on Saturday. Alex Ovechkin had an NHL-best 51 goals this season and has a goal plus two assists in the first two games. Capitals goalie Braden Holtby began last year's playoffs on the bench but retutrned to lead the Caps to their first-ever Cup. The former Vezina Trophy recipient has turned aside 196 of 209 shots in his last seven contests (7-0-0), giving him a .938 save percentage. FOUR of those victories have come against Carolina.

Carolina's leading goal scorer Sebastian Aho (30 goals and 83 points) scored late in the second period, snapping a 15-game goal drought. "It's not like we're playing bad, but this time of year, you've got to get that extra step and play even better," he said after the game. For teh Hurricanes to get back in the series, goaltender Petr Mrazek has to do a better job than him turning away 43 of 50 shots as he's done in Games 1 & 2 (.860 SP).

The key to Game 3 will likely be Carolina getting off to a better start, as Washington holds a 5-1 combined edge in first-period scoring. Let me remind all that Washington was only five points better than Carolina during the regular season, so down 0-2, I see no reason why the Hurricanes can't beat the Caps for the first time in SEVEN tries in this one. That's the bet.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* "signature" LEGEND Play is on the TB Lightning at 7:00 ET.

The Tampa Bay Lightning matched an NHL record for wins in a regular season (62) but after blowing a 3-0 lead through the first period of their Game 1 with Columbus, the lightning have been outscored a 9-1 in the last five periods by the Blue Jackets. Columbus earned a comeback 4-3 win on Wednesday and then in Friday's Game 2, took a 3-0 first period lead on the way to a 5-1 win. What's going on here? The Presidents’ Trophy-winning haven't aced much adversity this season but it's a "whole new ballgame" tonight going into Game 3 of the Easrtern Conference first-round series against the host Columbus Blue Jackets.

Columbus has clogged the neutral zone, holding the lightning to just one goal the last five periods, while NINE players have scored one goal apiece for the Blue Jackets.During that stretch, goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky has stopped 39 of the 40 shots he's faced. What's more, while the Blue Jackets were just 28th in the regular season on the power play, they are 3-for-6 (50.0%) in the series. "We’re in a tough position, but we’re not going to quit,” Tampa Bay captain Steven Stamkos said. “We’ve got to take a page out of their book and go on the road and win a hockey game. We just got to focus on Game 3." Making Tampa Bay's situation even tougher is the fact that they won’t have the league’s leading scorer Nikita Kucherov (128 points), who was suspended one game for an illegal hit.

So here's the bottom line. Tampa Bay dominated Columbus in the regular season, outscoring them 17-3. Tampa Bay crushed the competition on the way to a record-tying 62-win season and lost consecutive games just twice, a pair of regulation losses in November and a set of overtime games in February. The Lightning haven't lost three straight all season and went 30-9-2 on the road for the year (no other team won more than 25 road games). The Blue Jackets have NEVER won a playoff series and were also up 2-0 last year in the opening round against the Capitals (won 1st two games in Washington), before the Caps rallied for four consecutive wins on the way to the team's first Stanley Cup. Deja vu? Maybe but "FOR SURE," I'm on Tampa Bay in this one!

Good luck...Larry

My NHL 10* Game of the Week is on the Bos Bruins at 8:08 ET.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have suffered a pair of demoralizing Game 7 losses in Boston but opened this year's best-of-seven opening round series against the Bruins with an emphatic 4-1 Game 1 win on Thursday in Boston. Mitch Marner scored twice, the first to erase a first-period deficit, and the second to give the Leafs the lead for good after he was brought down from behind by Jake DeBrusk on a short-handed breakaway. "We're a different team. We've got a little more confidence in this room and we're ready to play with it," said the 21-year-old Marner, who scored twice to help Toronto secure its first series-opening victory since 2003. John Tavares, a key free-agent acquisition in the offseason, collected a goal and an assist on Thursday, boosting his playoff point total to 24 (12 goals, 12 assists) in 25 career games.

"When you get a power play, you want to get something good out of it and get some momentum. Obviously, that did the opposite. ... That can't happen," said Patrice Bergeron, who scored with the man advantage for Boston's lone goal.

However, after Bergeron's goal, the Maple Leafs outskated and outplayed the Bruins the rest of the game. However, the Bruins won their first-round playoff series 4-3 over the Maple Leafs last year and also took the season series 3-1 with the Maple Leafs this regular season.

The Boston Bruins must turn over the page instead of turning over the puck Saturday night. Why should we expect anything less? Only Tampa Bay accumulated more points this regular season than Boston's 107 and only the Lightning (32-7-2) had a better home record than the Bruins' 29-90-3 mark. Boston must be well aware that the Lightning's record-tying season is now on 'life-support' after two home losses and Boston surely wants to avoid a similar scenario. Boston has history on its side against Toronto, having beaten the Maple Leafs in each of the last five times the teams have squared off in the playoffs. Boston can't win the series tonight but the Bruins can "get back in it." The Bruins' top line of Bergeron, Brad Marchand and David Pastrnak dominated the Maple Leafs in the playoffs last year. Expect a "repeat scenario" tonight.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Win Jets at 9:30 ET.

My 10* Stanley Cup Opener is on the StL Blues at 8:00 ET.

The St Louis Blues were last in the NHL (15-18-4) back on Dec 31, had fired head coach Mike Yeo six weeks earlier, replacing him with Craig Berube, and seemed destined for a high-chance lottery spot in the NHL Draft. However, the Blues has fashioned one of the best mid-season turnarounds in NHL history. The Blues would go 30-10-5 since Jan. 1 and tied Winnipeg in the standings with 99 points. As for the Jets, a popular Stanley Cup preseason favorite after reaching the conference finals last spring, they led the Western Conference in early January. However, the Jets would go 16-16-3 down the stretch (since Jan 19), losing the Central Division title to Nashville in the final two weeks.

The Jets get the home ice advantage due to winning three of four vs the Blues (all four meeting came prior to Jan 1) but as Winnipeg head coach Paul Maurice noted, "You look statistically in the back half, they're an elite team in the NHL. We've never played that team. We played them in 2018 and they were a different team." In fact, the last time these two teams met (way back on Dec 7 at Winnipeg), the Blues won 1-0. St. Louis’ fortunes turned around with the emergence of goaltender Jordan Binnington, who did not make his first NHL start until Jan 7. Binnington had played one game for the Blues in 2015-16,  but set a franchise record for wins by a rookie, while finishing 24-5-1 with a league-leading 1.89 GAA (also had an impressive .927 save percentage).

'Hot' goaltenders have been known to carry a team in the Stanley Cup playoffs and my "first bet" of the 2019 playoffs is on St Louis.

Good luck...Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Arizona Coyotes (10:05 EST).

The Oilers have been terrible all season. Edmonton most recently comes in off a 6-3 loss to New Jersey. 

The Coyotes come in on the other end of the spectrum. Arizona is firmly in line for a wild card spot and it’s surging towards the finish line right now with two straight victories, most recently destroying the Ducks 6-1. Vinnie Hinostroza posted a hat-trick in the victory, while goaltender Darcy Kuemper stopped 36 of 37 shots to improve to 24-16-5 on the year. 

The Oilers have been consistently inconsistent all year and just when it looked as if they may have turned a corner and had some slim hope of making a run, their last pathetic effort was a stark reminder of how fickle their success has been this season.

Arizona though has quietly and legitimately been one of the best teams in the league over the last month and getting it at home at this price is a gift in my opinion.

Play on the Coyotes.

Good luck..Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Arizona Coyotes (10:05 EST).

Arizona comes in off a quality 3-1 road win over St. Louis and it sits one game up on Minnesota for the second wild card spot. The Coyotes will be wary to not look past the suddenly red hot Ducks, who enter off an upset 3-2 win over the Predators at home.

Anaheim has been playing better of late, but it still averages only 2.27 goals per game, while conceding 3.01 goals.

The Coyotes average 2.61 goals and they concede 2.79. Arizona though is third on the penalty kill, having successfully killed off 84.8 percent of their shorthanded situations this year.

But Arizona could arguably be the “hottest” team in the league right now. Note that the Coyotes have won nine of their last 11. 

Also note that the Coyotes are 7-1 in their last eight at home, while Anaheim is just 1-5 in its last six after allowing two goals or less in its previous outing.

Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER TOTAL is on the under Devils/Oilers (9:35 EST).

New Jersey comes in off a 6-4 loss in Calgary just last night and I think it’s going to have a hell of a time here finding the same sort of energy levels in the second game of the back to back at this point of the season.

Edmonton has been playing much better over the last month having won seven of its last ten. That includes a 3-2 OT win over the Rangers last time out. The Oilers play with revenge here after a 5-2 defeat in New Jersey at the start of the season, but the situation each team finds itself coming into this one, points to more of a lower-scoring defensive battle in my opinion.

The Oilers will look to dictate the pace of this one and in the end, I believe that everything does indeed point to the “under” as the correct call tonight.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Washington Capitals (7:05 EST).

The Capitals lead the Metro by four points now, but with the Isles and Penguins right behind them, clearly they can ill afford to take the foot off the gas now. 

Keep your eyes on Washington star Alex Ovechkin, as he’s on fire again with 77 points so far, including 46 goals. 

Pittsburgh’s been equally as hot of late and it’s firmly entrenched in the third spot. Sidney Crosby is leading the team with 88 points this year, including 57 assists. 

It wouldn’t be difficult to write a convincing argument for either of these teams. With a line like this, clearly Las Vegas would agree with me.

Goaltending is pretty much a “wash” on any given night. Experience as well. 

This one comes down to the numbers for me though, as I’ll point out that the Capitals are 14-7 (+5.3 units) vs. the division this yearend 15-8 (+3.4 units) in its last 23 in trying to revenge a loss vs. an opponent (earlier home loss to Pitt), while the Pens are just 5-7 (-2.1 units) in their last 12 vs. teams with winning records.

I’m banking on Ovechkin and the defending champs to continue their hot surge with a late season signature victory over their hated rivals. Great value on Washington.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the New York Islanders (7:05 EST).

After their 4-1 win over Pittsburgh, I think the Blue Jackets suffer a predictable letdown here in this difficult road venue.

The Islanders come in as the hungrier side here after they suffered a 5-2 loss to Philadelphia. 

Both teams sport competent goaltending. The Blue Jackets have Sergei Bobrovsky and he’s 29-21-1, while the Isles have Thomas Greiss, who is 19-11-2. 

The Blue Jackets though have really struggled in this spot for bettors of late, going just 1-5 in its last six following a win.

New York on the other hand is a money-making 14-6 in its last 20 as a home favorite. Home ice really has been a difference for this surprising Islanders team this season and I believe that’ll again be the case today.

I think we’re getting a great price on this solid home side. Play on the Isles.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Total Oddsmakers Error is on the under Knights/Flames (8:35 EST).

These teams played last week in Vegas and the Knights scored the 2-1 lower-scoring victory.

The Flames have been scuffling of late and they’ll be eager to get back into the winners circle and to avenge that setback. 

The Knights though laid everything on the line in last night’s 6-2 in Vancouver and I think they’ll come in predictably tired here in the second game of the back to back.

Not only do these two Pacific division teams have a recent history of playing to tight, lower-scoring affairs, but note that LV has seen the total go under the number in 16 of its last 20 vs. teams with winning records, while Calgary has seen the total dip below the posted number in four of five already this year after three or more consecutive losses. 

Everything once again points to a low-scoring battle. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Nashville Predators (8:05 EST).

Common sense, more than anything else is the basis of this selection.

Carolina comes in off a humbling loss at home to the Jets just last night and I think it’ll struggle to find any intensity whatsoever in this difficult road arena.

That’s now back-to-back losses for the Canes, who also fell in OT to the Bruins on Tuesday.

The Predators are off a confidence building 5-4 win at home over Minnesota and they’re out for revenge here as well after a 6-3 road loss in the only other meeting this year. 

Considering the major fatigue and revenge factors working in favor of the home side, I think this line could/should easily be much larger. Great value.

Play on Nashville.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Winnipeg Jets (7:35 EST).

It wouldn’t be hard to write a convincing argument for either team, but the Jets have been playing better of late and I think they catch the Hurricanes flat footed here.

Both teams come in off losses. The Jets fell 5-2 at Tampa Bay, while the Hurricanes lost 4-3 in OT in Boston. 

Winnipeg is in second place in the Central Division, but only one point out of first. Scoring in the setback to Tampa was Blake Wheeler and Jacob Trouba. Winnipeg is expected to send Laurent Brossoit between the pipes and he’s 11-7 with a 2.53 GAA on the year. Overall the Jets are 17-15 on the road. 

The Hurricanes are back in the playoff picture after having won 13 of their last 17, but I think they’ve run out of gas after their latest tough setback. Carolina is still only two points ahead of the Blue Jackets, who are in ninth place. Curtis McElhinney gets the nod in the net and he’s 1-2 with a 2.92 GAA lifetime vs. Winnipeg. 

Note that Winnipeg is 11-6 (+2.3 units) this year after a loss by two goals or more in its previous outing, while Carolina is still just 12-13 (-2 units) vs. teams with winning records.

I’m pulling the trigger on the undervalued underdog.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Arizona Coyotes (9:05 EST).

The Calgary Flames have been one of the best teams in the league for most of the season, but they’re running out of gas down the stretch. A 6-2 loss to the Leafs on Monday was followed a 2-1 defeat in Vegas just last night. Can anyone say letdown spot here?!

The Coyotes had won six straight before falling 3-1 to a desperate Anaheim team. Arizona though plays with “triple revenge” here after dropping all three in the season series thus far to Calgary and in this case, I think the “revenge angle” works.

Calgary is clearly struggling with consistency right now and playing the second game of a back to back at this time of year is never easy even when on top form.

The Coyotes are just three points back of a playoff spot and with a win tonight, they’ll be right back into the thick of the hunt.

It’s a golden opportunity to pull the trigger on an undervalued underdog. Play on the Coyotes.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Washington Capitals (7:35 EST).

I like the defending champs to find a way to get the job done here as they look to keep the foot on the gas in the second half.

Overall the Capitals average 3.36 goals per game, while allowing 3.14. Philadelphia averages 3.02 goals and it allows 3.30. 

These are two teams hungry for wins. Washington’s offense is the difference maker though in my opinion, as Philadelphia’s defense and goaltending is a clear weakness in this matchup.

Additionally note that the Captials are 28-14 (+10.8 units) when playing with two days.

Great price. Play on Washington.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Montreal Canadiens (10:35 EST).

The Kings broke a ten-game slide with a win over the Blackhawks this past weekend, but I think an immediate return to mediocrity is in store here.

The Habs’ two game win streak was snapped in a loss at Pittsburgh over the weekend, but an immediate return to the winners circle is imminent here in this favorable spot.

Montreal comes in desperate for a spark as its lost six of its last ten. The Habs are still holding on to the final wild card spot, but they’ll need to take advantage here to keep pace.

LA has many issues, but after it finally got the “monkey off its back,” I do indeed expect immediate regression here. Note that the Kings are just 1-4 in their last five t home anyways.

The Habs? They’re a money-making 4-0 in their last four when playing with two days of rest. 

This line could/should be much higher in my opinion. Play on Montreal.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NHL TOTAL OF THE WEEK is on the under Oilers/Sabres (7:05 EST).

Edmonton enters off a rare 4-0 road win over Columbus, while Buffalo is looking to bounce back after a 5-2 loss at Toronto. 

After losing 11 of its previous 12, Edmonton has now won four of its last six. The Oilers though are a poor 14-20 on the road this year, averaging 2.59 goals and conceding 3.29 in those contests.

Buffalo is 19-13 at home, averaging 3.13 goals and allowing 3.03, but note that the Sabres have seen the total go “under” the number in seven of their last nine after allowing five or more goals in a two goal or more loss in their previous outing. 

I think these two inconsistent non-conference bottom feeders play to more of a lower-scoring battle than a wide-open shootout.

Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the New York Islanders (3:05 EST).

After smashing the Devils 6-3 in New Jersey in their latest outing to move to three wins in its last four games, I think that Philadelphia finally has a letdown here in this difficult road arena.

The Isles now sit behind the Capitals in the standings after their 3-1 home loss to Washington on Friday. New York can’t take anything for granted at this point after losing four of its last six. 

Note that Philadelphia truly has been a disaster for bettors in this position all year though, going just 4-11 (-7.3 units) after a win by two goals or more.

The Isles on the other hand have been “money in the bank” in this spot by going 8-4 (+5.8 units) after scoring one goal or less in their previous outing. I look for the “hungrier” home side to deliver the goods. Lay it.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U PERFECT STORM is on the under Devils/Bruins (7:05 EST).

The Bruins are 9-0-1 over their last ten games and they’re coming off a big home victory over Tampa to move into second place in the East (I had Boston in that one as my Feb. GAME OF THE MONTH.) 

The Devils come to town off a poor 6-3 loss at home to Philadelphia. The Devils will be going with Corey Schneider in net for this one and he’s been decent since returning from injury, going 4-3-1 with a 2.11 GAA in eight games. 

The home side will counter with Tuukka Rask, who is 21-8-5 overall with a 2.36 GAA. 

I have a hard time seeing New Jersey putting up much of a fight here. And there’s no need for Boston to put up much of a fight here. This number is a little high, play the “under.” 

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Washington Capitals (7:05 EST).

This is an important game with both teams looking to gain ground in the competitive Metropolitan Division. 

Washington is currently tied with the Isles with 79 points, but it’s played two more games, meaning that a victory is very much needed here to keep pace with the surprising home side. The defense has been an issue for Washington this year, but the offense is ranked fifth with 220 goals scored thus far. 

The Isles have been getting the job done all season with their tough defensive play, but after last night’s 6-1 win over the Leafs, I think the home side has a predictable letdown here in the second game of the back-to-back. 

Look for Washington come out focused and to deliver the good at the end of the night. Great value on the Capitals.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NHL GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Boston Bruins (7:35 EST).

Here’s a great situational play. The Lightning are the better team. There’s no denying that. Tampa has a “feel” about it this season. 

The Bruins though have also been playing exceptionally well of late though and they’re in a dog fight with Toronto for the No. 2 spot (Boston with 83 points and Toronto with 82.) The last time these teams played, the Lightning managed the 3-2 win at home on December 6th, so the home side also plays with revenge here.

Boston also catch the Lightning “dog tired” after their tougher than expected 5-4 OT win in The Big Apple just last night. 

The Bolts have been “money in the bank” all season for bettors, but the situational/motivational factors working in favor of the home side tips the scales for the Bruins in this one.

As far as I’m concerned, this is the very definition of “great line value.” I expect the home side to play with some desperation and to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Play on Boston.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Philadelphia Flyers (7:05 EST).

Colorado comes to town off a satisfying 3-1 road win in Carolina, while Philadelphia enters off a confidence building 5-2 victory over New Jersey.

Note that this is an immediate “revenge game,” as Colorado beat Philadelphia at home earlier in the year by a score of 5-2. 

Colorado is averaging 3.63 GPG and it’s conceding 2.25. Semyon Varlamov is 3-2 with a 1.77 GAA and he’s 4-3 with a  2.86 GAA lifetime against the Flyers.

The Flyers are averaging 3.63 GPG and they’re conceding 4.23. Brian Elliot is now 2-3 with a 3.69 GAA and I think he’ll build off the win over the Devils. Note as well that he’s had tremendous success against the Avs throughout his career, going 9-5 with a 2.24 GAA.

I’ll point out as well that the Flyers are 5-2 in their last seven at home in this series, while the Avs are just 3-8 in their last 11 following a victory. 

Colorado is still only 20-53 in its last 73 away from friendly confines. I’m laying this very reasonable price on the home side.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Calgary Flames (7:05 EST).

Calgary looks to bounce back off a 5-3 home loss to Nashville. The Rangers return home off a 4-3 OT loss in Washington, a game in which it gave up a big lead late.

This is a “double revenge” contests for the Flames, as New York somehow managed to take both meetings last season.

Calgary is fifth in the league in scoring with 3.71 GPG. Mike Smith is 3-3 with a 3.38 GAA on the season.

New York is ranked 25th in scoring with just 2.43 GPG, while ranked 22nd in goals allowed in conceding 3.43. Clearly this isn’t a recipe for long-term success.

Goaltender Henrik Lundqvist is 2-4 with a  2.31 GAA so far. 

I’ll point out though that Calgary is 48-33 (+6.4 units) against teams with losing records the last two seasons, while New York is just 38-54 (-15.1 units) against clubs with winning records in the same span.

I think Calgary is the much better team and I look for it to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night in The Big Apple.

Good luck…Larry

The third pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Colorado Avalanche (7:05 EST).

Colorado comes in off a 3-2 OT loss at home to Calgary, while the Rangers enter off a 2-1 home loss to Edmonton.

The Avs took both meetings last year and I think they’re going to find a way to get the job done here as well.

Colorado is averaging 3.80 GPG. Goaltender Semyon Varlamov is already 3-1 with a 1.75 GAA and he’s 6-3 with a 3.07 GAA lifetime against the Rangers.

New York is just 1-4 and it’s averaging 2.40 GPG, while conceding 3.60. Henrik Lundqvist is 1-3 with a 2.03 GAA.

I’ll point out as well that the Rangers are only 5-21 in their last 26 after scoring two goals or less in their previous game, while the Avalanche are 11-5 in their last 16 against the Eastern Conference.

I think Varlamov is the difference in this one. Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Buffalo Sabres (7:00 EST).

Colorado comes in off a 5-2 home loss to Columbus, while Buffalo enters off a 4-2 home victory over Las Vegas. 

After its first loss of the year, I think Colorado takes a step back here. The Avs opened the season 2-0, but they’d go on to lose their first road game of the year against the Blue Jackets.

And that’s significant because note that Colorado was 28-13 in front of the home town crowd last season, compared to going just 15-26 on the road. Semyon Varlamov is expected between the pipes and last year he was 24-22 with a 2.68 GAA overall, but only 9-14 with a 3.09 GAA on the road.

Buffalo enters 2-1, losing 4-0 at home to Boston on Opening Night, before then beating the Rangers (3-1) and the Knights. The Sabres once again turn to Carter Hutton in net and he stopped 35 of 37 shot that he faced last time out. Overall Hutton is 30-20 with a 2.31 GAA in all home game situations.

I’ll point out as well that Buffalo is 8-3 in its last 11 against teams with a winning percentage above .600, while Colorado is just 17-52 in its last 69 on the road overall.

I don’t think that the home ice advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor in this particular match. I look for Colorado’s “road issues” to continue on Thursday night.

Play on the Sabres.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* PERFECT STORM on the Calgary Flames (10:05 EST).

Calgary returns its top four points getters from last year, including Johnny Gaudreau and Sean Monahan, who combined for 55 goals and 93 assists last season. Mike Smith isn’t getting any younger, but the veteran net minder comes in healthy at least. 

The Flames haven’t won their regular season opener since 2009-10, so they’ll absolutely be out to end that drought here.

Calgary struggled last year, but the Canucks were horrible with 31 wins and 73 points under coach Travis Green’s first year. Two of their top three players in terms of points retired over the off-season (the Sedins), so the onus to guid the team falls on players like Brock Boeser and Bo Horvat. 

Vancouver may have won its opener in four straight years, but that streak is poised to end here as it tries to find its new identity early in the season.

The visitors have the veteran experience and superior goaltending and could easily be a bigger favorite in my opinion. Play on the Flames.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on the Las Vegas Golden Knights (8:05 EST).

I played on Las Vegas in its last game and while that play came up short, I do now firmly believe the the Golden Knights will stave off elimination here with their best effort of the Cup Final. 

Las Vegas won Game 1 by a score of 6-4, but since then it’s been all Braden Holtby, Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals. Holtby is now 15-7 with a 2.13 GAA in the postseason, while the Knights’ Marc-Andre Fleury is 13-6 with a 2.15 GAA. 

So far overall this season Washington is 30-23 on the road, averaging 3.08 goals and conceding 3.08 in those contests. TJ Oshie scored his eighth of the playoffs in Game 5, while Brett Connolly posted his sixth. 

Overall this year Vegas is 36-14 at home, averaging 3.58 goals in those contests and conceding just 2.42. The Knights will be pushing the pace of this one from start to finish, as they have just five goals over their last three games. James Neal was a bright spot in a losing cause last time out with his sixth goals, while Reilly Smith also posted a goal, his sixth of the postseason. 

From a trend based stand point though, this one definitely favors the home side. As note that Washington is a poor 3-8 in its last 11 after scoring five goals or more in its previous contest, while Vegas is 6-1 in its last seven after allowing five goals or more in its previous game. 

For all the reasons listed above, play on the Knights.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NHL GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Las Vegas Golden Knights (8:05 EST).

Las Vegas steamrolled the Capitals 6-4 in Game 1, but since then it’s been all Washington in this series. With their backs against the wall and looking to tie this series up before heading home, I think the Golden Knights will indeed pull off the minor upset in Game 4. 

Once again it’ll Marc-Andre Fleury in net for the Knights (13-5, 1.95 GAA in the playoffs), vs. Braden Holtby for the Capitals (14-7, 2.13 GAA).

Note that Vegas comes into this one averaging 2.89 goals per game in the playoffs, while conceding 2.06. Tomas Nosek was a bright spot in the Game 3 loss and he now has four goals over his last five games.

Washington comes into this one averaging 3.45 goals per game in the postseason and conceding 2.55. Alex Ovechkin continues to be a force for the Capitals, as he’d pot his 14th marker of the playoffs in the Game 3 victory. 

It’s hard to point out to many negatives for the Capitals, as they’ve been super solid across the board all year long and throughout the playoffs. I will point out though that Vegas is 12-3 (+8.7 units) this year after scoring one goal or less in its previous outing. 

With the Capitals’ first Stanley Cup home game in 20 years out of the way, I predict a predictable letdown tonight. The Golden Knights know how to win on the road, going 28-22 overall away from friendly confines, including 6-3 in the playoffs. 

For all the reasons listed above, play on Las Vegas.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Las Vegas Insider is on the over Knights/Capitals (8:05 EST).

Game 1 was a barn-burner with the Golden Knights prevailing 6-4. Vegas scored the first goal in Game 2, but then the Capitals would clamp down and in the end earn the 3-2 victory. 

I had Washington in Game 2 and Alexander Ovechkin and goaltender Braden Holtby, who made perhaps the save of the year, would come through in the end for the visiting side. 

While Game 2 stayed below the posted number, I think that Game 3 will feature a lot of scoring as each side pushes the pace from start to finish.

So far Vegas goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury is 13-4 with a 1.88 GAA in the playoffs, while Braden Holtby is 13-7 with a 2.19 GAA. 

The Golden Knights come into this one averaging 3.06 GPG, while conceding 2.00. The Capitals come in averaging 3.48 GPG while allowing 2.62. 

I’ll point out though that Vegas has seen the total go over the number in 11 of 16 already this year when playing with two days rest, while Washington has seen the total eclipse the posted number in four of six already this season when tied in a playoff series.

As mentioned off the top, I think that each side will be playing at a frantic pace, which will in turn lead to a high-scoring shootout. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Washington Capitals (8:05 EST).

I had a play on the “under” in Game 1 and clearly I was off on that prediction. These teams came out fired up and each goaltender looked shaky. 

Washington had two leads in Game 1, but the Golden Knights were able to quickly even things up and then pulled away in the final moments for the 6-4 victory.

The Capitals though will be risking life and limb today to even this series before heading home and I believe their effort will be enough to score the upset on Wednesday.

It’ll be Braden Holtby going for the visitors in net and he’s 12-7 with a 2.20 GAA, while the Golden Knights are going with the red hot Marc-Andre Fleury, who is 13-3 with a 1.82 GAA to this point in the playoffs.

So far the Capitals are averaging 3.50 goals, while conceding 2.65 in the postseason, while the Golden Knights are averaging 3.06 goals and allowing 1.94. 

It’s impossible to point out any negative trends for the Knights this year, as they’ve truly re-written the history books with their improbable run to the Cup Final in their very first season.

However I will point out that Washington is an unbelievably strong 4-1 (+2.4 units) already when trailing in a playoff series this year, while also 15-9 (+5.4 units) after a loss by two goals or more in its previous outing. 

I look for Alexander Ovechkin and company to find a way to tie this series up before heading back to the Nation’s capital.

Play on the Capitals.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the under Capitals/Knights (8:05 EST).

The Capitals’ Braden Holtby is 12-6 with a 2.04 GAA in the playoffs this year, while the Golden Knights’ Marc-Andre Fleury is 12-3 with a 1.68 GAA.

I base my selections on many different things. Sometimes it’s about scheduling, or revenge, or trends, or the overall situation etc. This one is based mainly on common sense.

I think the long lay off between series will cause each of these high-powered teams to come out with some rust to open Game 1. And that’s all these World class goaltenders are going to need to turn this one into a classic “battle” in net.

For the record, Washington enters averaging 3.47 goals and conceding 2.47 in the playoffs thus far, while Las Vegas is averaging just 2.87 goals and allowing 1.80 in the postseason.

I’ll point out though that Washington has seen the total go under the number in five of its last seven after scoring four or more goals in its previous contest, while LV has seen the total dip below the posted number in five of eight when playing with three or more days of rest.

For all the reasons listed above, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Las Vegas Insider is on the under Caps/Lightning (8:05 EST).

Washington held on for a 3-0 win in Game 6. This has been a difficult series to predict, but with a trip to the Stanley Cup Final on the line, I think each team plays it “cautious” in Game 7.

Washington goes with Braden Holtby in net and he’s 11-6 with a 2.16 GAA thus far in the Playoffs, while Tampa goes with Andrei Vasilevskly, who is 11-5 with a 2.55 GAA in the postseason. 

Washington is 28-22 on the road overall this year, averaging 3.04 goals and conceding 3.10 in those contests. During the playoffs though the Capitals have been averaging 3.44 goals and allowing 2.61.

Tampa Bay is 35-15 at home this season, averaging 3.48 goals and conceding 2.94. During the playoffs the Lightning are averaging 3.13 goals and allowing 2.75. 

These are two of the highest scoring teams in the league, but neither would have gotten this far without its respective goaltender. As stated off the top, I predict that each team comes out with a “cautious” approach, waiting for the other to make the first mistake. 

And in a scenario like that, I expect these competent netminders to be the main story lines in tomorrow’ summaries. 

Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Washington Capitals.

I played Washington in Game 5 and it came up short. The Capitals’ backs are now against the wall though, as Game 6 becomes their most important contest in franchise history.

Washington roared out to a 2-0 series lead, winning both games in Tampa, before the Lightning bounced back by taking the next three.

Caps’ goaltender Braden Holtby looked fantastic over the first two games, but the Bolts’ Andrei Vasilevskly has stolen the show over the last three.

I said before this series started that I thought whichever team’s goaltender played better would come out on top. While Holtby has struggled over his last three, I think he’s poised to get back on track here in this crucial situation.

All of the pressure is on Tampa Bay now to try and close this series and while it did succeed in the Nation’s capital in Game’s 3 and 4, I think the stage is finally set for letdown.

I’l point out as well that Tampa is just 2-4 in its last six after three or more victories, while Washington is 5-2 in its last seven after three straight losses.

These teams are very evenly matched, but the intensity in which the home side plays with will be the difference.

All things considered, I do indeed feel that this is the very definition of “great line value.” Play on Washington.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Washington Capitals (7:15 EST).

So far the visiting team is 4-0 in this series and I fully expect that trend to carry over here. The pressure is now on Washington to respond after wasting its 2-0 series lead with back-to-back losses at home. A date on the road is just what the doctor ordered to get untracked for the Capitals though, as so far they’re 7-1 in the playoffs away from friendly confines.

I said before this series started that whichever team’s goaltender plays better would most likely be the difference and so far that’s been the case over the first four games.

The Capitals’ Braden Holtby (10-5, 2.24 GAA) looked much better in Game’s 1 and 2, while the Lightning’s Andrei Vasilevskly (10-4, 2.63) looked fantastic in the Nation’s capital in Game’s 3 and 4. 

Overall Washington comes into this one averaging 3.56 goals in the playoffs, while conceding 2.75. 

Tampa is averaging 3.36 goals in the postseason and conceding 2.69. 

Both teams have responded well in this spot for bettors all year long, but the double revenge factor of losing back-to-back games, combined with the other extremely strong trends I’ve listed above, make the Capitals just too good to turn down in this “plus-money” spot. 

Great value, play on Washington.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Winnipeg Jets (8:05 EST).

Winnipeg took Game 1 by a score of 4-2, but the Knights have stormed back to take the next two in the series.

Down 2-1 and looking to avoid the dreaded 1-3 hole, I believe Winnipeg comes out and finds a way to get the job done in this crucial Game 4.

So far the Jets’ Connor Hellebuyck is 9-6 with a 2.34 GAA in the playoffs, while the Knights Marc-Andre Fleury is 10-3 with a 1.70 GAA. 

Winnipeg is averaging 3.33 goals in the playoffs and conceding 2.47. Mark Scheifele was a bright spot in the latest setback with both goals and he now has 14 in the postseason, leading all scorers.

Las Vegas is averaging 2.92 goals in the playoffs and conceding 1.85. Jonathan Marchessault had two goals in the latest victory. 

From a trend based stand point, I think this one highly favors the desperate Jets though, as note that Winnipeg is 23-8 in its last 31 after scoring two goals or less in its previous contest.

Winnipeg is also 20-7 in its last 27 games overall and during that stretch it hasn’t lost three in a row. I believe this strong trend carries over here.

These teams are very evenly matched on paper, but as mentioned off the top, everything points to the “hungrier” side delivering the goods at the end of the night.

Great value, play on the Jets.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on the over Lightning/Capitals.

Tampa has made this a series after its 4-2 Game 3 victory. The Lightning though can ill afford to take the foot off the gas, as a loss would drop them to 3-1 in the series, a hole likely too deep to dig out of.

Washington is going to have to match pace with its hungry counterpart tonight as it looks to regain the offensive form which saw it total nine goals over the first two games on the road.

These are two of the best netminders in the league going head-to-head, but everything points to a wide-open “goal-fest” in my opinion. 

So far the Lightnings’ Andrei Vasilevskly is 9-4 with a 2.68 GAA in the postseason, while the Capitals’ Braden Holtby is 10-4 with a 2.18 GAA.

Tampa is 29-17 on the road overall this year, averaging 3.53 goals and conceding 2.74 in those contests. 

Washington is 31-17 at home overall this season, averaging 3.35 goals and conceding 2.63 in those games. 

I’ll point out as well that Tampa has already seen the total go over the number in 23 of 38 this year after a victory by two goals or more, while the Caps have seen the total eclipse the posted number in five of their last seven after a loss by two goals or more.

With each team pushing from start to finish, expect this one to soar over the total sooner than later. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Winnipeg Jets (9:05 EST).

This series is all tied up 1-1. Winnipeg won Game 1 by a score of 4-2, before Las Vegas bounced back with the 3-1 victory in Game 2. For a number of different reasons though, I like the Jets to respond on the road in Game 3.

Winnipeg sends Connor Hellebuyck to the net and he’s so far 9-5 with a 2.29 GAA, while Vegas counters with Marc-Andre Fleury, who is 9-3 with a 1.68 GAA thus far.

Winnipeg is averaging 3.43 goals in the postseason and conceding 2.36. Las Vegas is averaging 2.83 goals in the playoffs and conceding 1.83. 

I’ll point out though that Winnipeg is 32-13 (+17.9 units) in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent this season. 

The Jets have in fact struggled at home of late, but they’ve done extremely well on the road, allowing a total of nine goals over their last five away from friendly confines. 

Las Vegas continues to struggle with offensive consistency in the postseason and I think that comes back to haunt it here against this revenge-minded Jets side.

Great value, play on Winnipeg.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Tampa Bay Lightning (8:05 EST).

I had a play on the under in Game 1 and then came back with the Lightning in Game 2. So far I’m 0-2 in the Eastern Conference Finals, but I’m expecting to get back into the winners circle tonight with the desperate Lightning. 

Washington won Game 2 by a score of 6-2. Lightning goaltender Andrei Vasilevskly is now 8-4 with a 2.74 GAA, while the Capitals’ Braden Holtby is 10-3 with a 2.04 GAA. 

Vasilevskly has struggled against the Capitals in this series, but coming in he was the entire reason why Tampa advanced to this round so quickly. I think he’ll bounce back here though with his strongest effort so far. 

Tampa’s offense will also looked to get untracked. The Lightning have managed just two goals thus far, but they still enter averaging 3.25 goals per game, while conceding 2.92. 

Washington is averaging 3.79 goals in the postseason and conceding 2.57. It’s hard to say anything negative about the Capitals obviously, as they’re likely playing the best hockey of the remaining clubs right now. However, I simply feel that this does indeed set up as a classic “letdown” spot finally. 

And conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for the Bolts as they look to avoid the dreaded 0-3 hole. Note as well that Tampa is 14-6 (+5.5 units) this year after allowing four goals or more in its previous contest this season.

In my opinion, this is indeed the very definition of “great line value.” Play on the Lightning.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Las Vegas Golden Knights (8:05 EST).

I pushed with the “under” in Game 1. Las Vegas got steamrolled in the first period, quickly finding itself down in a 3-0 hole. 

The Golden Knights would actually control the play of Game 1 after that, but it wasn’t enough in the eventual 4-2 setback. 

But Las Vegas has been incredibly resilient this year and I think the Golden Knights are going to bounce back in fine fashion tonight. 

The visitors send back Marc-Andre Fleury between the pipes and he’s 8-3 with a 1.74 GAA in the postseason thus far, while the Jets’ Connor Hellebuyck is 9-4 with a 2.23 GAA. 

Vegas comes into this one averaging 2.82 goals in the playoffs, while conceding just 1.91. A bounce back is imminent for Fleury and gang tonight in my opinion.

The Jets are averaging 3.62 goals in the playoffs and conceding 2.31. 

I’ll point out though that Las Vegas is 15-5 (+7.4 units) this year in revenging a loss against an opponent, and 16-9 (+4.9 units) after allowing four goals or more in its previous contest. 

After getting caught off guard in Game 1, I think the Knights bounce back and take command in Game 2. Great value, play on Las Vegas.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL PERFECT STORM is on the under Capitals/Lightning (8:05 EST).

Tampa took two of three in the regular season between these clubs.

The Capitals needed six games to get by the Penguins last round, while the Bolts edged the Bruins in five. 

The Lightning come in focused, while Washington comes in motivated after finally getting the monkey off its back with its win over Pittsburgh, a team which had knocked it out of the playoffs in each of the last two years. 

Each teams possesses unbelievable offensive depth, experience and talent. But the reason these two clubs are where they are right now is because of their goaltending to this point.

The Capitals’ Braden Holtby is 8-3 with a 2.04 GAA and he easily outplayed his counterpart in Matt Murray last time out.

The Lightnings’ Andrei Vasilevskly is 8-2 with a 2.20 GAA and he’d also be the difference maker in the last round, getting the better of Bruins’ veteran Tuukka Rask. 

From a trend based stand point, this one sets up well for a lower-scoring goaltenders battle as well, as note that Washington has seen the total go under the number in seven of 11 road games this year when the total in the contest was set at six or more, while Tampa has seen the total dip below the posted number in four of its last five when playing with three days rest.

I think each side comes out a little flat footed, as fatigue becomes a major factor at this time of year. With each team playing it a bit cautious to start this series, it leaves the door open for the netminders to become the main focal point in tomorrow’s summaries. 

Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Nashville Predators (8:05 EST).

Winnipeg is going with Connor Hellebuyck in net in Game 7 and he’s so far 7-4 with a 2.36 GAA in the playoffs, while Nashville turns to Pekka Rinne, who is 7-5 with a 2.94 GAA.

Despite any success it’s had in the playoffs, I’ll point out that the achilles heel of Winnipeg has been its play on the road, where it’s a pedestrian 23-23, averaging 2.93 goals in those contests and conceding 2.80. 

And despite any struggles that it’s occurred in the postseason, note that Nashville is still 31-16 at home overall this year, averaging 3.34 goals and conceding 2.68 in those games. 

I’ll point out as well that the Jets are a poor 1-5 in their last six following a home loss of three or more goals, while the Predators are interestingly 23-9 in their last 32 when their opponent scores two goals or less in its previous contest. 

Home ice matters in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals. Lay the price with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Nashville Predators (9:30 EST).

It’s do or die for the visitors. Suffice it to say, I think the desperate Predators offer great value in this spot.

Nashville was embarrassed 6-2 in Game 5 and I’m expecting this talented club to respond here. 

The Predators Pekka Rinne is so far 6-5 with a 3.23 GAA in the playoffs, while the Jets’ Connor Hellebyuck is 7-3 with a 2.29 GAA. 

Nashville is comfortable on the road, so far it’s 28-18 away from friendly confines, averaging 3.04 goals and conceding 2.50 in those contests. 

Rinne has a long history of dominance over Winnipeg as well, as he’s now 15-5 with a 2.41 GAA lifetime against it.

Winnipeg is averaging 3.80 goals in the playoffs and conceding 2.30. Hellebyuck though is still a pedestrian 6-5 with a 3.20 GAA lifetime against the Preds.

I’ll point out as well that Nashville is 18-11 (+4.8 units) this year after allowing four goals or more in its previous contest, while Winnipeg is just 1-3 (-2.3 units) in its last four when leading in a playoff series. 

Desperation breeds motivation. I think this series has Game 7 written all over it. Play on Nashville.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on the San Jose Sharks (3:00 EST).

I base my selections on many different things. For this particular play though, I’m using common sense for the most part.

This has been a very tight series, but with their backs against the wall and facing elimination, I’m banking on the home side Sharks to buckle down and find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. 

Both teams have looked fantastic at times in this series and extremely pedestrian/poor in others. For arguments sake on this one, let’s call the goaltenders a “wash.” 

As mentioned off the top, I base my picks on many different things, including individual player match ups. But this particular play has nothing at all to do with match ups, but everything to do with the “elimination factor,” the “home ice” factor and note as well that the Sharks are an excellent 21-9 (+12.2 units) this season after allowing four goals or more in their previous outing.

For all the reasons listed above, play on San Jose.

Good luck…Larry

y 9* Las Vegas Insider is on the Boston Bruins (3:00 EST).

I had a big play on the Bruins last time out and they’d unfortunately come up short in the 4-3 OT setback. With its back against the wall and facing elimination though, I like Boston to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night here.

Boston is 24-22 on the road, averaging 2.91 goals and conceding 2.63 in those contests. Goaltender Tuukka Rask is 5-6 with a 2.96 GAA so far in the playoffs and over his career against the Bolts he’s now 16-8 with a 2.49 GAA. 

Tampa is 33-13 at home, averaging 3.57 goals and conceding 2.91 in those games. Netminder Andrei Vasilevskly is so far 7-2 with a 2.33 GAA in the playoffs and over his career he’s now 1-5 with a 2.51 GAA against the Bruins.

Likely there will be many prognosticators laying the larger price and jumping on the Lightning bandwagon to end this series at home, but I think the desperate Bruins still have plenty of fight left in them.

Play on Boston.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U PERFECT STORM is on the over Pens/Caps (7:00 EST).

These teams are all tied up at two games apiece. Game 5 is an important one and I’m expecting more of a wide open offensive affair as each side pushes the pace in search of a crucial victory.

Note that Pittsburgh comes in ranked as the No. 1 offense in the playoffs with an average of 3.80 GPG, while conceding 2.60. Goaltender Matt Murray was 10-12 with a 3.05 GAA on the road this year and note that vs. the Capitals he’s just 4-4 with a 3.26 GAA.

Washington is averaging 3.50 goals in the playoffs and conceding 2.80. Goaltender Braden Holtby is 6-3 with a 2.07 GAA overall in the playoffs, but just 8-11 with a 2.90 GAA lifetime against the Pens.

I’ll point out as well that Pittsburgh has seen the total go over the number in 18 of 29 this year after a victory by two goals or more, while Washington has seen the total eclipse the posted number in 31 of 50 against winning clubs this season.

For all the reasons listed above, play on the over.

Good luck…Larry 

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Boston Bruins (7:00 EST).

A 3-1 hole heading back to Tampa would almost assuredly be too big for the Bruins to climb out of. With Boston risking life and limb getting into shooting and passing lanes, I look for the desperate home side to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Tampa comes into this one averaging 3.50 goals on the road, while conceding 2.75. Goaltender Andrei Vasilevskly is 1-5 with a 2.51 GAA lifetime against the Bruins though.

Boston is averaging 3.70 goals at home and conceding just 2.61. Tuukka Rask is 16-8 with a 2.49 GAA lifetime against the Bolts.

For arguments sake, let’s call the goaltenders a “wash.” 

Note though that the Bruins are an amazing 21-6 in their last 27 after scoring two goals or less in their previous contest. 

Despite the loss last time out, Boston is still 33-8-4 in its last 45 at home against the Lightning. I expect that strong trend to continue in this important game.

Lay the price, play on the Bruins.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Boston Bruins (7:00 EST).

This series is all knotted up at one game apiece as it shifts gears to “Bean Town.” 

The Lightning were 24-19, but the Bruins were 21-24 at home. For arguments sakes, lets call these goaltenders a “wash.”

I base my selections on many different things. Sometimes I base it on strong trends, or scheduling, or revenge. This particular play comes down mainly to some very strong trends which each team has exhibited in this position. 

The Lightning are a poor 14-17 in their last 31 after playing three consecutive home games. Boston on the other hand is a “lights out” 14-5 (+8.6 units) this season after a loss by two goals or more.

On any given night either of these teams could win against the other. It’s that close. But home ice advantage is a crucial factor working in favor of the Bruins this evening and I believe it’ll help turn the tide once the final horn sounds. 

Play on Boston.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Pittsburgh Penguins (7:30 EST).

I’ve made a play on the Penguins in each of the first two games of this series and I’m 1-1. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting the defending champs to bounce back here in front of the home town crowd.

Washington turns to Braden Holtby in net for this one and he’s 5-2 with a 1.95 GAA, while the Pens’ Matt Murray is 5-3 with a 2.29 GAA. 

Washington comes in 24-20 on the road this year, averaging 3.02 goals and conceding 3.20 in those contests.

Pittsburgh is 31-13 at home, averaging 3.61 goals and conceding 2.70. 

I’ll point out as well the Washington has had a hell of time whenever it’s played in “Steel Town,” going just 3-8 in its last 11 trips there.

The Pens on the other hand have excelled in this spot, going 37-14 in their last 51 following a loss by three or more goals. 

Pittsburgh accomplished what it wanted in splitting the first two games of this series, but now that it’s home I expect it to return to form.

Everything points to a blowout, lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Tampa Bay Lightning (7:00 EST).

I had a play on the Lightning in Game 1 and clearly that didn’t work out at all, as Boston would go on to post a lop-sided 6-2 victory.

I have to admit, I was completely wrong with judging the Bruins’ energy levels, as they still had plenty left in the tank after their gruelling seven-game series win over the Leafs in the first round. 

It was Tampa which suffered from rust after dispatching the Devils in five games. 

The main goal of any visiting team to start a seven game playoff series is to earn the split over the first two games, so as to re-gain the home ice advantage.

With that feat accomplished and with fatigue now finally catching up to Boston, I do indeed absolutely believe that the Bruins suffer a classic letdown here.

Conversely, with their backs against the wall and needing a victory in the worst way to avoid the 0-2 hole, I look for the Lightning to risk life and limb tonight getting into shooting and passing lanes to try and secure the win. 

Note as well that Boston is already 2-3 (-2.3 units) in the Playoffs when leading in a series; also 42-43 (-21 units) in its last 45 after a win by two goals or more, while Tampa is 10-3 (+6 units) this season in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent and 21-10 (+6.2 units) after allowing four goals or more.

For all the reasons listed above, play on the Lightning.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Pittsburgh Penguins (3:05 EST).

I had a play on the Penguins in Game 1 (my Round 2 GAME OF THE YEAR!) and I think the defending champs offer great value to steal Game 2 as well.

Pittsburgh turns to Matt Murray (5-2, 2.17 GAA), while Washington counters with Braden Holtby (4-2, 2.10). 

Pittsburgh has knocked Washington off in the playoffs each of the last two years and it’ll be well on its way to doing that this season as well with another victory here. Pittsburgh is ranked as the No. 1 offense in the playoffs with an average of 4.43 GPG, while ranked sixth in goals allowed by conceding 2.43. 

Washington is averaging 3.71 goals in the playoffs and conceding 3.00. 

This is simply a horrible matchup for the Capitals, who let a golden opportunity slip through their fingers in the late Game 1 collapse. It’s a mental thing and it’s only going to get worse in Game 2 in my opinion. 

I like Pittsburgh to keep the pressure on and find a way to get the job done at the end of the night once again. Play on the Penguins.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Tampa Bay Lightning (3:05 EST).

It’s payback time for the Lightning, as the Bruins took three of the four regular season meetings.

Boston comes in completely “gassed” here after its seven game opening series victory over the Leafs. Boston is 23-21 on the road this season, averaging 2.86 goals and conceding 2.61 in those contests. 

Goaltender Tuukka Rask is 4-3 with a 2.94 GAA in the playoffs thus far and vs. the Lightning he’s gone 16-8 with a 2.49 GAA.

Tampa advanced by beating New Jersey in five games. The Lightning are 32-12 at home this season, averaging 3.59 goals and conceding 2.86 in those contests.

Netminder Andrei Vasilevskiy is 4-1 with a 2.01 GAA in the playoffs and 1-5 with a 2.51 GAA lifetime against Boston (note that he’s 26-9 with a 2.84 GAA at home.) 

I’ll point out as well that Boston is just 1-5 in its last six after scoring five or more goals in its previous game, while Tampa Bay is 40-18 in its last 58 when playing on three or more days rest.

No need to over think this one. Tampa is rested and motivated after losing the season series. Boston is exhausted. All things considered, this is a great price.

Play on the Lightning.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Nashville Predators (8:00 EST).

Nashville took three of the four regular season meetings between the clubs and I think that dominance is carried over into Game 1.

If Winnipeg has had one clear weakness this season, it’s been its play on the road where it’s just 21-22, averaging 2.81 goals and conceding 2.81 in those contests. Connor Hellebuyck gets the nod in net tonight for the visitors and he’s so far 4-1 with a 1.93 GAA in the playoffs. Overall he’s 6-5 with a 3.20 GAA lifetime against the Predators though.

Nashville is 30-14 at home, averaging 3.39 goals and conceding 2.55. Goaltender Pekka Rinne is 4-2 in the playoffs and overall he’s 15-4 with a 2.41 GAA lifetime against the Jets. 

Nashville has already beaten Winnipeg three out of four times this season and with so much on the line to open this second round series, I absolutely believe that the Predators will find a way to get the job done at the end of the night in Game 1.

The clincher though is the matchup in net. Rinne has dominated the Jets throughout his career, while Hellebuyck has struggled whenever he’s faced the Predators.

All things considered, I do indeed feel that this is a great price. Play on Nashville.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ROUND 2 GAME OF THE YEAR is on the Pittsburgh Penguins (7:05 EST).

Pittsburgh has knocked off Washington each of the last two years in the Playoffs and I believe the defending champs are going to take Game 1 as well.

The Penguins advanced by dispatching the Flyers in six games. In their two losses the Pens totalled just three goals, but in their four victories they posted 25. Sidney Crosby led the way offensively with six goals. 

Pittsburgh goaltender Matt Murray went 4-2 with a 2.20 GAA in the first round. Murray is now 26-11 with a 1.99 GAA lifetime in the postseason. 

The Penguins enter ranked as the No. 1 offense so far in the playoffs with 4.67 GPG, while ranked seventh defensively in conceding 2.50. 

The Capitals advanced by beating the Blue Jackets in six games. Washington lost the first two games of that series, but then proceeded to win four straight. The Capitals are 29-15 at home, averaging 3.34 goals and conceding 2.61. 

Washington goaltender Braden Holtby is 4-1 with a 1.92 GAA in the Playoffs thus far. 

It’s hard to say anything negative about either of these teams. The Penguins though have just had the Capitals number over the last five years and I think they’re going to find a way to get the job done here as well.

After four straight victories, I think Washington finally suffers a small letdown in the opener of this second round series. Play on the Penguins.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Columbus Blue Jackets (7:30 EST).

Washington won Game 5 by a score of 4-3 in OT to snag a 3-2 series lead. Columbus will be risking life and limb to force a Game 7 and in this case, I don’t think that home ice can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor.

The Capitals are 23-20 on the road this year and they’ve averaged 2.95 goals and conceded 3.21 in this contests. Goaltender Braden Holtby is now 3-1 with a 1.67 GAA in this series. Holtby hasn’t been on his best on the road this season though, going 12-11 with a 3.90 GAA.

The Blue Jackets are 26-17 at home, averaging 2.70 goals and conceding 2.42 in those contests. Netminder Sergei Bobrovsky is 2-3 with a 2.85 GAA in this series. Overall he’d go 20-13 with a 2.18 GAA at home this season though and there’s no reason not to think that he won’t be able to bounce back here.

Washington would love nothing more than to close this series out, but Columbus has proven to be an elite team at home all season. I simply can’t see the Capitals getting the job done tonight.

Washington has won three straight, but winning can lead to complacency. And desperation leads to motivation for Columbus. All things considered, I do indeed feel that this is the very definition of “great line value.”

Play on the Blue Jackets.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmakers Error is on the under Devils/Lightning (3:05 EST).

When the smoke clears at the end of this one, I look for this total to sneak below the posted number. 

Tampa comes in off a hard-fought 3-1 win in Game 4 to grab a 3-1 series lead and in my opinion, everything points to a similar final combined score here as well.

New Jersey comes in having gone 21-22 on the road, averaging 2.98 GPG and conceding 3.19 in those contests. Corey Schneider is 6-11 with a 3.25 GAA on the road, but he has gone 5-6 in 12 career games against Tampa Bay with a 2.94 GAA. Keith Kinkaid is 14-9 with a 2.97 GAA on the road and 2-4 with 3.33 GAA lifetime against the Bolts.

Tampa Bay is 31-12 at home so far this year, averaging 3.60 GPG in those contests and conceding 2.91. Goaltender Andrei Vasilevskly stopped 27 of 28 shots last time out to move to 3-1 with a 2.26 GAA in the playoffs thus far. Note that he was 26-9 with a 2.84 GAA at home this season.

I’ll point out as well that New Jersey has in fact seen the total go under the number in four of its last five after scoring one goal or less in its previous outing, while TB has seen the total dip below the posted number in five of its last seven after a win by two goals or more.

I believe the conditions are finally right for a tight-checking, lower-scoring goaltenders battle. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL ODDSMAKERS ERROR is on the under Bruins/Leafs (7:05 EST).

It’s the all important Game 4. Boston wants to take a strangle-hold on the series before heading home, while the Leafs will be leaving everything on the ice in an attempt to even it up.

Fatigue sets in at this point and in my opinion, everything points to a classic lower-scoring under between these two hungry clubs.

Boston goaltender Tuukka Rask is 2-1 with a 2.71 GAA and .911 save percentage thus far. Note that he’s still 16-7-2 with a 2.14 GAA lifetime against the Leafs.

Toronto net minder Frederik Andersen is now 20-14 with a 2.53 GAA lifetime in the postseason and 10-1-0 with a 2.09 GAA lifetime against the Bruins.

I’ll point out as well that Boston has seen the total go under the number in 16 of 23 this year after allowing four goals or more, while Toronto has seen the total dip below the posted number in five of its last seven after scoring four goals or more in its previous outing.

For all the reasons listed above, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ODDSMAKERS ERROR is on the Anaheim Ducks (10:30 EST).

I’ve stayed way from this series until now, but I’m ready to pull the trigger on a big play on the 0-3 Ducks. With its back against the wall, I look for Anaheim to prolong this series at least one more game.

Anaheim will be looking to atone for the 8-1 drubbing it endured in Game 3. The Ducks would amazingly post a double-digit advantage in shots on goal in the setback. 

The Ducks were done in by 26 penalty minutes. Anaheim starting goaltender John Gibson was started all three games so far, but he was pulled early in the rout. Gibson will be back in net with a chip on his shoulder and something to prove this evening.

San Jose had ten less shot attempts in Game 3, but it still pulled off the major blowout. 

I don’t think the Ducks are going to get swept though. Note that Anaheim is 6-2 (+5.3 units) this year after three or more consecutive losses and still 27-16 (+10.6 units) in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, while San Jose is just 18-21 (-9.6 units) in its last 39 after a three game unbeaten streak.

The Ducks dig deep and take this series back home for at least one more. Play on Anaheim.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NHL BLOWOUT GAME OF THE MONTH is on the LA Kings (7:35 EST).

It’s the most important game of the year for the Kings, who come into Game 4 in a 3-0 hole. Desperation breeds motivation and winning can lead to complacency. 

Prior to the playoffs starting, the Golden Knights had given up 15 goals over three straight road games. So far Vegas has gotten superb goaltending from Marc-Andre Fleury, but with their backs against the wall, I fully expect the Kings to respond in this do-or-die situation. 

LA continues to get solid goaltending from Jon Quick, as he had to face 52 shots last time out. Remember, Quick and the Kings were also down 3-0 to San Jose in the first round,before then going on to win the Stanley Cup after posting three Game 7 victories a couple of years ago. 

I’ll point out as well that LA is 10-4 in its last 14 after scoring two goals or less in its previous contest. 

There’s no way the Kings are going down without a fight. I look for the desperation in which the home side plays with tonight, to turn out to be the the deciding factor in the end.

All things considered, I do indeed feel that this is the very definition of “great line value.” 

Play on the Kings.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Toronto Maple Leafs (7:05 EST).

I played the Leafs in Game 1 and that was an unfortunate loser. Toronto was then also hammered in Game 2.

With its back against the wall though, I look for Toronto to finally respond with the shift in venue.

Boston was 22-19 on the road, averaging 2.93 goals and conceding 2.61 in those contests.

Toronto was 29-12 at home, averaging 3.34 goals and conceding just 2.66. Note that while he struggled on the road, goaltender Frederik Andersen has to be feeling confident he can bounce back here as note that he finished 23-10 with a 2.64 GAA at home.

I’ll point out as well that the the Bruins are just 1-4 in their last five after scoring five goals or more in their previous game, while Toronto is 4-1 in its last five when playing on one days rest. 

It doesn’t get any bigger than this for Toronto, as a 3-0 hole would clearly be too much for it to climb out of. I expect the Leafs to get back into this series with their best effort yet.

Play on Toronto.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Washington Capitals (7:30 EST).

Columbus stole Game 1, 4-3 in OT. Suffice it to say, it’s payback time for the home side.

It’s essentially a “do-or-die” scenario for the Capitals, who would be in tough in this series down 0-2 heading to Columbus for three straight. 

The Blue Jackets though are poised for a classic letdown here in my estimation. The goal of the visiting team to open a series is to score the split so as to gain home ice advantage moving forward. With that goal accomplished, I do indeed expect the visitors to come in a tiny bit complacent.

Columbus averages 2.9 GPG and it concedes 2.8. Clearly the margin for error isn’t very big. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky stopped 27 of 30 shits in Game 1 to move him to 37-22-6 with a 2.42 GAA.

The Capitals average 3.1 GPG and they concede 2.9. Philipp Grubauer got the start over Braden Holtby in Game 1, but Holtby is expected back in net tonight. Holtby comes in off perhaps his worst campaign of his career, but experience and home ice advantage is going to prove to be the difference today in my opinion. 

And as mentioned off the top, this is essentially a must-win game for the Capitals. Bobrovsky scored the victory in Game 1, but he still owns a horrible 3.57 GAA and .888 save percentage to go along with a 4-10 lifetime record in the postseason. 

I’m expecting the home side to go up early and I look for it to keep the foot on the gas until the final horn blares.

Lay the price, play on Washington.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL ODDSMAKERS ERROR is on the under Flyers/Penguins (7:00 EST).

I had a play on the “under” in Game 1 of this series and that would unfortunately turn out to be a loser in the Penguins’ 7-0 destruction of the Flyers.

Philadelphia will be laying everything it has on the line tonight to atone for that pathetic effort and to try to steal Game 2 so as to wrest back the home ice advantage. 

The goaltender matchup tonight features Brian Elliot of the Flyers, who is 23-18 with a 2.66 GAA, against Matt Murray, who is 27-19 with a 2.92 GAA.

Philadelphia is 20-22 on the road, averaging 2.95 goals and conceding 3.00. Pittsburgh is 31-11 at home, averaging 3.71 goals and conceding 2.62 in those contests.

I’ll point out though that the Flyers have seen the total go under the number in ten of 16 this year after scoring one goal or less in their previous outing, while Pittsburgh has seen the total dip below the posted number in five of its last seven after scoring six or more goals in its previous contest, while also shutting out its opponent at the same time.

I think the conditions are right for a much more defensive affair in Game 2 of this Opening Round series. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Boston Bruins (7:00 EST).

Game 1 of the best of 7 series and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

It’s payback time for Boston, as Toronto took three of four in the regular season. 

The Leafs send Frederik Andersen to the net and he finished 38-26 with a 2.81 GAA. Toronto’s achilles heel all season though has been its play on the road, where it’s just 20-21, averaging 3.24 goals and conceding 2.95 in those contests. Andersen has had considerable success against the Bruins throughout his career, going 10-1 with a 2.09 GAA, but I think that run ends this evening.

The Bruins counter with Tuukka Rask, who is 34-19 with a 2.36 GAA this season. Boston went 28-13 at home and averaged 3.59 goals, while conceding 3.54 in those contests. Rask is 16-9 with a 2.14 GAA lifetime against the Leafs.

I’ll point out as well that Toronto is just 16-42 in its last 48 road games against a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600, while Boston is 4-1 (+3 units) in its last five when playing on three days rest.

I’m banking on the “home ice” and “revenge” factors being the difference in the opener of this series. Lay the price, play on the Bruins.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U PEFECT STORM is on the under Flyers/Penguins (7:00 EST).

Pittsburgh swept the season 4-0 this year. Philadelphia will send out Brian Elliot between the pipes and he went 23-18 with a 2.66 GAA, while the home side counters with Matt Murray, who was 27-19 with a 2.92 GAA.

Philadelphia was 20-21 on the road, averaging 3.02 goals and conceding 2.90 in those contests. Elliot has for the most part been spectacular whenever he’s faced the Penguins, going 7-5 with a 2.88 GAA lifetime. 

Pittsburgh is 30-11 at home, averaging 3.63 goals and conceding 2.68 in those contests. Note that Murray is 3-2 with a 3.00 GAA lifetime against the Flyers.

I’ll point out though that Philadelphia has seen the total go under the number in four of its last five in the first four of the playoffs, while Pittsburgh has seen the total dip below the posted number in four of its last five when playing with three or more days rest.

These were a couple of the highest scoring teams in the league, but I’m expecting more of a defensive battle to open the playoffs. With these two competent goaltenders going head-to-head, everything does indeed point to the under as the correct call here.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Detroit Red Wings (7:00 EST).

New York comes in off the 2-1 home win over the Rangers, while Detroit enters off a 4-3 home loss to the Habs. 

The Isles are 15-25 on the road this year, averaging 2.95 goals and conceding 3.45 in those contests. 

Goaltender Jaroslav Halak is 20-32 with a 3.19 GAA, including just 8-16 with a 3.17 GAA on the road. 

The Wings are 16-24 at home, averaging 2.48 goals and conceding 2.83 in those contests. Netminder Jimmy Howard is 22-36 with a 2.85 GAA on the year, including 15-19 with a 2.64 GAA at home. 

The Islanders have been horrible on the road and they come in off a satisfying victory over their main rival the Rangers. There’s no doubt that this sets up as a letdown spot for the visitors in this meaningless contest.

Detroit comes in off a loss and would love nothing more than to give the home town fans a victory to end the season. I’m banking on the Red Wings being the much “hungrier” team tonight.

Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on the St. Louis Blues (8:30 EST).

This is the second game of a home and home set and Chicago took the first one 4-3. Suffice it to say, I think it’s payback time for the Blues tonight.

St. Louis has lost four in a row and it sits one game out of eighth spot in the Western Conference. This is a big game for the Blues. 

St. Louis averages 2.71 GPG and it concedes 2.70. Goaltender Jake Allen is 27-27 with a 2.74 GAA on the year, including 13-13 with a 2.83 GAA on the road.

Chicago averages 2.88 GPG and it concedes 3.08. Netminder Jean-Francois Berube is 3-6 with a 3.84 GAA overall and 2-3 with a 3.10 GAA at home. 

I’ll point out as well that St. Louis is still 41-18 in its last 59 road games against a team with a losing home record, while Chicago is just 3-13 in its last 16 following a victory.

While Chicago would love to play “spoiler,” I simply don’t think that’ll be enough motivation for the home side today. This is a “do or die” game for the Blues and I expect them to play like it.

This line could easily be a lot larger in my opinion. Play on St. Louis.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Columbus Blue Jackets (7:00 EST).

Pittsburgh enters off a 3-1 home loss to Washington, while Columbus comes in off a 5-4 OT win at home over Detroit.

These teams are in a fight for second place in the division, each coming in with 96 points. Clearly this is a big game for both teams, but I don’t think that the home ice advantage can be overlooked as a very real factor in this one.

The Penguins have a “cream puff” at home against the Senators up next, so it’s definitely not too hard to imagine the visitors in some small way also getting caught “looking ahead” to that one. 

Pittsburgh’s achilles heel all year has been its play on the road anyways, going just 16-24 away from friendly confines, allowing 2.9 goals and conceding 3.35 in those contests. Pens’ net minder Matt Murray is 26-19 with a 2.90 GAA on the year.

Columbus is 26-14 at home, averaging 2.73 goals and conceding 2.3 in those contests. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky is 37-27 with a 2.38 GAA this season.

I’ll point out that Pittsburgh is just 13-14 (-5.1 units) this year after a divisional contest, while Columbus is 16-9 (+5.1 units) after allowing four goals or more.

The Blue Jackets enter the final few games on top form, winners in 13 out of their last 15 and I look for them to ride that momentum to another solid victory against the Penguins at home. 

Great value, play on Columbus.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on the Ottawa Senators (7:30 EST).

A couple of cellar dwellers go head-to-head in this one and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Senators.

Ottawa is off a 6-5 home loss to Winnipeg, while Buffalo fell 5-2 at Toronto in its latest action.

Ottawa averages 2.70 GPG and it concedes 3.46. Netminder Mike Condon is just 5-22 with a 3.25 GAA, including 3-15 with a  2.96 GAA on the road this season. 

Buffalo averages 2.38 GPG and it concedes 3.33. Goaltender Chad Johnson is 10-17 with a 3.41 GAA on the year, including just 4-10 with a 3.98 GAA at home.

Both teams have just been downright horrible this year, which is why I’ll point out that Ottawa is 7-2 (+6.8 units) in its last nine after a loss in which it scored five goals or more in, while Buffalo is 13-25 (-10.4 units) this season against clubs with losing records.

Play on Ottawa.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Nashville Predators (7:30 EST).

Nashville enters off a 4-1 road win over Tampa Bay, while Florida comes in off a tough and highly satisfying 3-2 win over Carolina just last night.

Fatigue is a major issue at this time of the season and I think it will be the deciding factor in this matchup.

Nashville comes in with a ton of momentum as well after hammering the Lightning 4-1 in Tampa Bay on Sunday. The Predators are road warriors, 24-15 away from friendly confines and averaging 3.03 goals and conceding 2.44 in those contests.

Predators’ goaltender Pekka Rinne is 17-8 with a 2.07 GAA on the road.

Florida is 23-14 at home, averaging 3.30 GPG and conceding 2.92 in those contests. Goaltender Roberto Luongo is 20-20 with a 3.00 GAA, including 11-6 with a 2.77 GAA at home.

Note though that Nashville is 14-5 in its last 19 against teams with winning records and 18-6 in its last 24 when playing on one days rest, while Florida is a poor 5-16 in its last 21 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 situation. 

Nashville is playing for the President’s Cup right now, while the Panthers are on the cusp of being eliminated.

As mentioned off the top, I think the home side comes in “flat” after last night’s victorious battle. 

Lay the price, play on Nashville.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on the St. Louis Blues (8:05 EST).

I base my picks on many different things and for this one I’m basing it on scheduling. Washington will be putting its full focus onto the ice on Sunday night as it’s in Pittsburgh to take its top rival.

St. Louis on the other hand will be looking to atone for an ugly 6-0 road loss at Arizona. 

Washington enters Sunday having gone 19-20 on the road, averaging 2.90 goals and conceding 3.38 in those contests. 

St. Louis though is 24-15 at home, averaging 2.77 goals and conceding 2.46. 

Braden Holtby is just 11-11 with a 4.00 GAA on the road this year for Washington, while Jake Allen is 14-10 with a 2.58 GAA at home for the St. Louis. 

St. Louis is in a dog fight for a playoff spot and I think the situational factors working in its favor tonight indeed make the Blues well worth the price of admission in this position.

Play on St. Louis.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on the Dallas Stars (8:00 EST).

Minnesota posted a 4-2 home win over Dallas on Thursday. Suffice it to say, it’s payback time for the desperate Stars tonight. So for the Wild lead the season-series 2-1. 

The Wild broke a two-game slide with that victory, as Matt Dumba posted a goal and three assists. So far Minnesota averages 3.1 GPG, while conceding 2.8. Goaltender Devan Dubnyk is 33-14-7 with a 2.56 GAA and a .917 save percentage. 

Dallas averages 2.8 GPG and it concedes 2.7. Kari Lehtonen is 13-14-3 with a 2.59 GAA. Tyler Seguin has been a bright spot offensively of late with five points in his last five games (and note that Seguin has six points in three games vs. the Wild.)

Dallas is the more desperate team here, having lost nine of its last ten and I ultimately believe that’s going to be the difference maker here. Throw in the immediate “revenge factor” and the home ice advantage and in my opinion, this is indeed the very definition of “great line value.” 

Play on Dallas.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Las Vegas Golden Knights (10:30 EST).

The 48-22-4 Vegas Golden Knights are at St. Louis to take on the 43-28-5 Blues on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one highly favors the home side.

Vegas is coming off a 3-2 loss to Arizona, while the Blues enter off a highly satisfying 3-2 OT win over the Sharks.

St. Louis has won six straight and looks poised for a letdown here in my opinion. I’ll point out as well that the Blues are a poor 1-5 in their last six road games against a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600, while Vegas is 4-1 in its last five after scoring two goals or less in its previous contest.

I like Vegas to bounce back in this spot after its latest loss and all things considered, I do indeed feel this is a very fair price. Play on the Golden Knights.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PUCK-LINE Las Vegas Insider is on the Las Vegas Golden Knights (10:05 EST).

Arizona comes in off a 4-1 road victory over Tampa Bay, while Vegas enters off a 4-1 home victory over Colorado. Arizona is expected to send out Mike Smith, while Marc-Andre Fleury will get the nod between the pipes for the home side.

The Coyotes have won 13 of their last 21 overall, but they’re still just 11-26 on the road, averaging 2.54 goals and conceding 3.38 in those contests.

After going 2-4 over their previous six, the Knights bounced back with the 4-1 home win over the Avs most recently.

Vegas is 27-11 at home and it averages 3.61 goals and concedes 2.47 in those contests.

Fleury will be a difference maker tonight, as he’s now 28-15 on the year, including 15-9 with a 2.34 GAA at home (note that he’s 7-5 with a 1.98 GAA lifetime against the Coyotes as well.)

Additionally I’ll point out that Arizona is just 12-26 in its last 38 following a victory, while Vegas is 24-9 when playing on one days rest.

After their big 4-1 upset in Tampa Bay, everything points to a predictable letdown here for the ‘Yotes. Expect Vegas to lay the hammer down from start to finish.

Play on the Knights on the puck line.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Dallas Stars (8:30 EST).

The 38-25-13 Philadelphia Flyers are in Dallas to take on the 38-30-8 Stars on Tuesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

It’s do or die time for Dallas, which comes in looking to snap an eight-game losing streak. Most recently the Stars fell 4-1 to Vancouver as a -200 favorite (I had the Canucks on the puck-line in that one.) 

Note that Philadelphia has earned points in five straight despite going just 2-3.

With a tough game at Columbus tomorrow night (the team sitting a single game ahead of them in the Metropolitan standings), I absolutely believe that the visitors get caught “looking ahead” here.

Clearly Dallas does not have that luxury. The Stars are enduring their worst losing streak ever since moving to Dallas and I expect the team to play with an extreme sense of desperation.

I’ll point out as well that Philadelphia is a poor 12-15 (-4.4 units) this year after allowing four goals or more in its previous contest, while Dallas is 11-6 (+2.8 units) this season after scoring one goal or less in its previous outing.

Note that the Stars also play with the added motivation of “revenge” tonight after falling 2-1 in OT in Philadelphia in mid December.

All things considered, I feel that this is the very definition of “great line value.” Play on the Stars.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on the Montreal Canadiens (7:30 EST).

Detroit comes to town off a 4-3 road loss in Toronto, while Montreal enters off a 6-4 home setback to Washington. 

Two veterans square off in net tonight, with Jimmy Howard going for the Wings and Carey Price going for the Habs.

Detroit is 13-25 on the road, averaging 2.56 goals and conceding 3.29 in those contests. Howard gave up four goals on 29 shots in the loss to the Leafs to fall to 19-35 with a 2.88 GAA this year, including going just 6-20 with a 3.05 GAA on the road. 

Montreal is 17-21 at home, averaging 2.79 goals and conceding 2.74 in those games. Price gave up six goals on 30 shots last time out to fall to 15-30 with a 3.10 GAA. Note that he’s 11-13 with a 2.80 GAA at home thus far.

I’ll point out as well that Detroit is just 4-7 (-3.2 units) in its last 11 against teams with losing records, while Montreal is 6-4 (+2 units) in its last ten in the same position. 

These are two horrible teams, but the Canadiens are playing much better than the Wings right now and I expect Price to get the better of Howard with the home ice advantage.

All things considered, I do indeed feel that Montreal is well worth the price of admission in this spot.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PUCK-LINE Las Vegas Insider is on the Vancouver Canucks (7:05 EST).

Vancouver comes to town off a 4-1 road loss to St. Louis, while Dallas enters off a 3-2 home setback to Boston. 

The Canucks average 2.57 GPG and they concede 3.24. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom is 19-28 with a 2.78 GAA on the year, including 9-15 with a 2.58 GAA on the road. Note that he’s 1-1 with a sharp 1.27 GAA lifetime against Dallas.

The Stars average 2.80 GPG and they concede 2.68. Netminder Kari Lehtonen is 12-15 with a 2.54 GAA this year, including 4-4 with a 3.10 GAA at home. 

Dallas has been much better at home than on the road, but note that the Stars come into this one having lost seven straight, averaging only 2.10 goals in those games.  

I’ll point out as well that Vancouver is still 10-8 (+6.1 units) this year after playing three consecutive road games, while Dallas is a poor 4-8 (-6.4 units) this season in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent. 

The Canucks play with the added motivation of “spoiler” here as they look to add to the Stars’ playoff issues with another upset. And while the upset isn’t out of the question here, in a contest which I envision being decided late (or in extra time), I’m going to lay the very reasonable price for the extra 1.5 goals of insurance.

Play on the Canucks on the puck line.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekend Wipeout Winner is on the New York Islanders (7:00 EST).

Chicago comes to Long Island off a disheartening 5-2 home loss to Vancouver, while New York is off a 7-6 home setback to Tampa Bay. 

The Blackhawks come into this one having gone just 13-24 on the road, averaging 2.76 GPG and conceding 3.51 in those contests. Forsberg is expected to get the start in net tonight and he’s 9-19 with a 3.06 GAA on the year, including only 5-11 with a 3.63 GAA on the road.

The Isles are 17-19 at home, averaging 3.53 GPG and conceding 3.78 in those games. Jaroslav Halak will get the call here and he’s 18-35 with a 3.27 GAA, including 11-15 with a 3.35 GAA at home.

I’ll point out though that Chicago is just 5-10 (-5.4 units) this year after three or more consecutive losses, while New York is a solid 4-1 (+3.7 units) this season after playing three consecutive home games. 

Both teams have been horrible this year, but the Blackhawks have been an unmitigated disaster on the road. All things considered, I do definitely feel this is a fair price. Play on New York.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Buffalo Sabres (7:00 EST).

The Habs enter off a 5-3 loss to the Pens on the road, while the Sabres come in off a 4-1 home loss to Arizona. Montreal starts Carey Price and Buffalo counters with either Chad Johnson or Linus Ullmark.

Note that Montreal is just 9-28 on the road, averaging 2.19 goals and conceding 3.59 in those contests. Price gave up five goals last time out and he’s now 15-29 with a 3.03 GAA on the year, including only 4-17 with a 3.45 GAA on the road. 

Buffalo is 11-27 at home, averaging 2.26 goals and conceding 3.26 in those contests. Johnson is 8-15 with a 3.30 GAA, while Uilmark is 1-1 with a 2.40 GAA. 

I think home ice is the difference here between these two cellar dwellers. Ultimately I expect Price’s road struggles to continue and I look for whoever gets the start in Buffalo to do just enough to help secure the victory.

Great price, play on the Sabres.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* Situational Stunner on the Buffalo Sabres (7:00 EST).

The Coyotes look poised for a letdown here after a 5-2 home win over the Flames, while the Sabres will be hungry for a victory after a humbling 4-0 home defeat to the Predators.

Arizona averages just 2.40 GPG and it concedes 3.13. The Coyotes are only 9-24 on the road and have averaged only 2.39 goals in those contests, while conceding 3.42. Netminder Antti Raanta is 16-22 on the year with a 2.41 GAA, including 6-8 with a 2.70 GAA on the road.

Buffalo averages 2.38 GPG and it concedes 3.25. The Sabres are just 11-26 at home, averaging 2.30 goals and conceding 3.24 in those contests. Goaltender Chad Johnson is 8-14 with a 3.27 GAA.

I’ll point out though that the Coyotes are a terrible 13-38 in their last 51 after allowing two goals or less in their previous contest, while the Sabres are 6-0 in their last six following a loss by three or more goals.

This is a tough road trip for the Coyotes. Both teams have been playing a bit better of late, but I think the conditions favor the home side. And there’s no question that the price is right as well.

Play on Buffalo.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Washington Capitals (7:00 EST).

Dallas comes to the nation’s capital off a 4-2 road loss in Winnipeg, while Washington most recently fell 6-3 in Philadelphia.

Dallas is 14-22 on the road, averaging 2.50 goals and conceding 2.92 in those contests. Kari Lehtonen gave up three goals on 20 shots in the latest loss and he’s now 12-13 with a 2.46 GAA. 

Washington is 25-11 at home, averaging 3.33 goals and conceding 2.42 in those contests. Braden Holtby had the last game off, but he’s back in net here and looking to improve upon his 30-19, 3.03 GAA season record, including a solid 19-8, 2.36 GAA mark at home.

I’ll point out that Dallas is just 8-20 in its last 28 road games against a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600, while Washington is 16-5 in its last 21 after allowing five goals or more in its previous outing. 

The Stars have struggled on the road this year and now they face perhaps the best home team in the entire league, one which has its No. 1 goaltender back in net and which is also out to atone for a lacklustre performance in its previous outing. 

All things considered, I feel this price could in fact be a lot larger, swinging the value onto the home side. 

Lay the price, play on the Capitals.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on the Florida Panthers (7:30 EST).

Florida comes to town angry off a 4-2 home loss to Edmonton, while Montreal enters off another humbling 4-0 defeat to Toronto. 

The Panthers have been better at home than on the road, but I think they’ll bounce back after their latest defeat. Overall Florida averages 3.00 GPG and it concedes 3.09. Goaltender Roberto Luongo is 14-11 with a  2.63 GAA, including 4-6 with a 2.52 GAA on the road. Now five points out of the eighth spot in the East, clearly Florida can ill afford to “look past” this golden opportunity this evening.

Montreal averages 2.50 GPG and it concedes 3.11. Netminder Antti Niemi is just 5-11 with a 3.26 GAA this year and only 1-5 with a 3.03 GAA lifetime against Florida.

I’ll point out as well that the Panthers are 14-3 in their last 17 against teams with losing records (also 9-2 in their last 11 against Eastern Conference opponents), while Montreal is just 20-45 in its last 65 against clubs with winning records (and only 6-21 in its last 27 against the Eastern Conference.)

Montreal has nothing to play for and I don’t think the motivation of “spoiler” comes into play here whatsoever. Florida however is desperate and I expect it to play like that tonight.

All things considered I do indeed feel this is a great price.

Play on the Panthers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the New York Islanders (5:00 EST).

Carolina is off a disheartening 4-2 loss at home to Philadelphia just last night and suffice it to say, I’m expecting another letdown here as well.

The Isles return home off a 6-3 road loss in the nation’s capital. 

Carolina is a terrible 14-21 on the road, averaging 2.74 goals in those games and conceding 3.29. Goaltender Scott Darling is 11-24 with a 3.08 GAA this year, including only 5-15 with a 3.16 GAA on the road. Note that over their last 13 games the Canes have allowed an average of 3.76 goals.

New York is 16-17 at home, averaging 3.45 goals and conceding 3.76 in those contests. Jaroslav Halak is 18-29 with a 3.26 GAA, including 11-13 with a 3.34 GAA at home. 

I’ll point out that Carolina has done terribly in this spot all year for bettors by going just 15-23 (-10.1 units) in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent, while New York has done decently in this position by going 13-9 (+5.2 units) this season following a divisional contest. 

The Isles will look to take advantage of a struggling and tired Carolina team. This one has blowout written all over it and in my professional opinion, it represents the very definition of “great line value.” Play on the Islanders.

Good luck…Larry