The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the under Capitals/Lightning.

I base my selections on many different things. Sometimes it’s all about the players on the acutal field (or ice in this case.) Other times though it’s about scheduling, the overall situation each team finds itself in coming into a contest, or even strong or lop-sided trends. 

In this case I simply feel this is a great spot to pull the trigger on the under.

Washington has opened the season with back-to-back high-scoring victories, beating Ottawa 5-4 in a shootout on Opening Night, before a convincing 6-1 win at home over Montreal on Saturday.

With a matchup against rival Pittsburgh at home on Wednesday, this one does indeed set up as a “trap” game for the Capitals in many respects.

Tampa also comes in off back-to-back high-scoring games to open the season, beating the Panthers at home 5-3 on Opening Nght, before then falling 5-4 in Florida the following night. 

With three whole days off after this game, before a meeting at home against the Penguins on Friday, this also does set up as a bit of a trap for the home side as well. 

While I’m expecting a very competitive affair, I think it’ll be the starting goaltenders which are the mainy story lines in tomorrow’s summaries. 

These teams feature high-powered offenses, but they’re also backed by some of the best goaltending on the planet.

A great overall “situational” play. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the San Jose Sharks (10:30 EST).

LA beat the Flyers 2-0 on Thursday. The night before Philadelphia was in San Jose beating the Sharks 5-3. 

San Jose started off slowly in that one and was never able to dig itself out of the early hole, but with a night off to re-focus, I like the Sharks to bounce back.

LA was ranked just 25th in the league in scoring last year with 2.43 GPG and it’s hard to judge exactly where the offense is at after the game against the Flyers. The Kings were solid defensively in conceding just 2.45 GPG and the defense will once again be a strength of the team with goaltender Jon Quick between the pipes.

The Sharks averaged 2.67 GPG last year, while conceding 2.44 (ranked 5th). Martin Jones looked uncharacteristically shaky in net on Opening night, but there’s no reason not to think that he’ll bounce back in fine fashion himself (note that he is 6-4 with a 2.19 GAA lifetime against LA.)

I’ll point out that the Kings are a terrible 6-10 (-7.8 units) in their last 16 after shutting out their opponent in their prevous game, while the Sharks are a superb 28-13 (+13 units) in their last 41 after a loss by two goals or more in their previous game.

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

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PUCK-LINE GAME OF THE WEEK is on the Dallas Stars (8:30 EST).

I think the talent and chemistry level discrepancies on the ice tonight absolutely justifies in laying the 1.5 goals for the small “plus-money” return. 

The Golden Knights make their NHL debut and they’ll have Marc Andre Fleury in net. James Neal from the Predators is also one of the main stars of the team. Note though that Neal is listed as quetionable for this one, so if he does play, it will likely be at under 100% capacity.

Overall the offense looks decent for the Knights, but clearly the team will need some time to build chemistry. Calvin Pickard is Fleury’s backup.

Dallas missed the postseason last year, after finishing with the most points in the West the year before. 

The Stars added Alexander Radulov, who had 18 goals for the Habs last season. Ben Bishop was 18-20 with a 2.54 GAA for the Lightning and Kings last year and no doubt is a big upgrade between the pipes for Dallas on the whole. 

There will be on complacency or mercy from the Stars tonight after their dismal season in 2016/17. Here’s the perfect opponent to get untracked against. The book is still clearly out on the Vegas Knights, who I expect will stumble and throw up the white flag early in this one. Play on Dallas on the puck-line.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Detroit Red Wings (7:30 EST).

The Red Wings open their season in their brand new state of the art building, the Little Caesars Arena and I think the home side will ride the wave of emotion to a solid victory.

Minnesota went out in the first round in five games to St. Louis last year. Goaltender Devan Dubnyk was 40-19-5 with a 2.25 GAA. He’s 4-2-4 with a 2.68 GAA lifetime against Detroit. 

The Red Wings missed the playoffs last year, which is a rarity.

Jimmy Howard gets the call in net for the home side, he was 10-11-1 with a 2.10 GAA last season. He’s been dominant against the Wild throughout his career going 13-3-3 with a 2.16 GAA. 

After winning just 17 home games at Joe Louis last year, you can bet that the proud Red Wings will be looking tor a much better performance in their new arena this time around.

I’ll point out as well that Minnesota is just 3-7 in its last ten on the road, while Detroit is 20-7 in its last 27 against the Wild at home.

All signs point to the slight home dog as the correct call here.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* OPENING NIGHT PERFECT STORM is on the Edmonton Oilers (10:05 EST).

At the start of any season you want to be a little bit cautious as you try to get a firm “read” on the teams. Certainly the NHL is no exception.

Like the NFL and NBA, preseason NHL is not a good indicator whatsoever on how a team will perform once the regular season gets underway. 

For this pick I’m basing it mostly on common sense.

With Connor McDavid leading the way, Edmonton has a very legitimate shot at a Stanley Cup run. The Oilers were one of the biggest surprises last year and there are big expectations in the “City Of Champions” this season as well.

These teams played four times last season and the Oilers came out on top in each instance, winning 7-4 on October 12th, 5-3 on October 14th, 2-1 on January 14th and 7-3 on January 21st. 

Home ice advantage clearly can’t be taken for granted on Opening Night. The signing of Jaromir Jagr certainly didn’t make the Flames any younger or faster. 

All signs point to a rout. Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

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

I had a play on the Penguins in Game 5. So far the home side has won every game in this series and I’m fully expecting that pattern to continue tonight.

Pens’ netminder Matt Murray has been great at home and atrocious on the road. The same can be said of Preds’ goalie Pekka Rinne as well though, as he’s been horrible in Pittsburgh, but almost unbeatable in Nashville. 

These are two teams which feed off the home crowd and there’s no doubt that Nashville is a tough arena to play in. And I’ll point out that this is a spot in which the Penguins have struggled in throughout the postseason, going a poor 6-7 (-1.2 units) when leading in a playoff series, while Nashville is 8-4 (+4 units) in its last 12 when trailing in a playoff series and 14-7 (+6 units) this year after scoring one goal or less in its previous outing.

In my professional opinion, this is the very definition of “great line value.” Lay the price, play on the Predators.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Pittsburgh Penguins (8:00 EST).

I had a play on the “under” in Game 4, but for Game 5 I think the home side will find a way to get the job done.

It was a cake-walk for the Penguins in Game’s 1 and 2, but the Predators turned the table and took advantage of home ice in Game’s 3 and 4. 

So far home ice advantage has been the difference in this series and I’m expecting this incredibly strong trend to continue. 

Let’s face it, neither team has looked great so far in the Finals. Pekka Rinne struggled in net in Pittsburgh, while Pens’ goaltender Matt Murray wasn’t his usual self in Nashville. 

The offenses have looked awesome at times and really average in others. 

I’ll also point out though that this is a spot in which the Predators have in fact struggled in mightily for bettors all season, going a poor 13-21 (-11.6 units) after scoring four goals or more in their previous contest, while the Penguins have excelled in this position by going 23-11 (+9.4 units) this year after allowing four goals or more.

For all the reasons listed above, play on Pittsburgh.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on the under Pens/Predators (8:00 EST).

So far two of three in this series have flown above the posted number, but I think Game 4 sets up as more of a defensive affair. 

It was 1-0 for Pittsburgh after the first period in Game 3 and famous Canadian broadcaster Don Cherry would go on to claim that the Predators might not ever score another goal on Pens’ netminder Matt Murray in this series. 

Nashville would then go on to score three goals in the second period, en route to the 5-1 blowout. Predators’ netminder Pekka Rinne returned to form and the league’s No. 1 defense in the postseason looked fantastic after a shaky couple of games in Pittsburgh.

Murray has all the tools and experience to bounce back himself though, so I’m not reading too much into one sub-par effort.

The trends/numbers also support our play on the “under,” as note that Pittsburgh has seen the total go under the number in six of its last nine in the Stanley Cup Finals, while Nashville has seen the total go under in three of its last four after holding an opponent to one goal or less in its previous contest.

For all the reasons listed above, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Pittsburgh Penguins (8:00 EST).

I took Nashville in Game 1 and lost. I took the UNDER in Game 2 and won. I think that Pittsburgh offers fantastic value in this spot though as it will look to take a virtual strangle-hold on this series.

Pittsburgh is “inside” Predators’ goaltender Pekka Rinne’s head. The Penguins only managed 15 shots in Game 1, but still won 5-3. 

Rinne had been the best goaltender in the playoffs and the Predators owned the stoutest overall defense, but the Pens have rattled the All-star netminder.

And simply put, I don’t expecting anything to change tonight either. 

I’ll point out as well that Pittsburgh is 29-17 (+5.5 units) after scoring four goals or more in its previous game, while Nashville has struggled against teams from the Eastern Conference all year, going just 14-20 (-11.6 units) in all non-conference games. 

For all the reasons listed above, play on the the Penguins in Game 3.

Godo luck…Larry

My 10* O/U PERFECT STORM is on the under Predators/Penguins (8:00 EST).

I had a play on the Predators in Game 1 and obviously came up short. I’m going to steer clear of the side in this one and instead focus on the total.

After the high-scoring 5-3 victory for the Penguins, I’m expecting a much more tightly checked/contested affair in Game 2 and I look for these all star goaltenders to be the main story lines in tomorrow’s summaries. 

Pittsburgh scored three goals in the first period and then tallied zero shots in the second period. Nashville scored once in the second period and then two more in the third to tie it 3-3, but then the champs bounced back and managed to pull away. 

What was up with Predators goaltender Pekka Rinne? He came into the Stanley Cup Final as the No. 1 goaltender, but he looked horrible, allowing the five goals on just 12 total shots. 

It was an unbelievably horrible night-mare outing for Rinne, but I am absolutely not reading too much into it. Despite the atrocious performance, he’s still 12-5 with a 1.83 GAA in the postseason. 

Pittsburgh was clearly “lucky” to win that game, considering it only had 12 shots on net. If the Pens only manage 12 shots tonight, I’d be surprised if they manage a single goal. 

Goaltender Matt Murray is 4-1 with a 1.62 GAA in the playoffs for the Penguins.

I’ll point out as well that Nashville has seen the total go under the number in 12 of 21 following a loss by two goals or more in its previous contest, while Pittsburgh has seen the total dip below the posted number in five of its last seven in the Stanley Cup Final.

For all the reasons listed above, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U PERFECT STORM is on the over Senators/Penguins (8:00 EST).

For the most part I’ve had a pretty good read on this series, although I did have a loser with the Penguins in Game 6.

This has been a highly competitive series which has featured great goaltending at times and great offensive apptititude in others.

The Senators’ Craig Anderson looked brilliant in Game 6, after getting destroyed 7-0 in Game 5. 

Pittsburgh has used both Marc-Andre Fleury and Matt Murray in this series, but it’ll be Murray that gets the call tonight.

But for this pick, I think it’s going to be the offenses that everyone is talking about tomorrow morning.

It’s do-or-die, a winner takes all trip to the Stanley Cup Final on the line and suffice it to say, I’m expecting some fireworks!

And note, Ottawa has in fact seen the total eclipse the posted number in all four games so far in the playoffs when tied in a series, while Pittsburgh has seen the total go over the number in ten of 15 this year after scoring one goal or less in its previous contest.

For all the reasons listed above, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the PIttsburgh Penguins (8:00 EST).

I’ve played on Ottawa twice in this series and won big as an underdog in each case. I had the “over” in the Penguin’s 7-0 Game 5 victory.

This is the first time I’ve played on Pittsburgh in this series though. At right around the -150 range, I think the defending champs offer great value in this spot.

Pittsburgh got some timely goaltending from veteran Marc-Andre Fleury to open the playoffs, but he’d eventually stumble against the Sens, which promoped the move to All Star Matt Murray.

The move has paid immediate dividends as the Sens have managed to post just two total goals over their last two games.

Ottawa netminder Craig Anderson was a disaster in Game 5, so the big question is will he be able to pull himself together for Game 6? Maybe, but then again, maybe not.

Murray has a huge advantage here. Note that he’s now 17-6 with a 1.97 GAA and .927 save percentage lifetime in the postseason. 

The Senators were outshot 36-25, went 0-for-4 on power play and were not able to kill any of the three man-advantage opportunities by the Penguins in Game 5.

PIttsburgh is just too deep and too experienced. With a chance to wrap this one up and punch their ticket to the Stanley Cup Final with a date against the waiting Predators, all signs point to the Penguins as the correct move here.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Anaheim Ducks (8:00 EST).

This has been a rather difficult series to predict. With their backs against the wall though, I think the Ducks can stave off elimination and send this one back to Anaheim for an exciting Game 7 for a winner takes all ticket to the Stanley Cup Final!

The Ducks will look to kick start their No. 1 playoff offense after falling 3-1 in Game 5. Anaheim though did get 33 shots on net. 

But a date on the road is just what the doctor ordered for Anaheim, as it’s 5-2 away from friendly confines in the playoffs thus far. 

Anaheim will likely start Jonathan Bernier in net, who came in in relief of an injured John Gibson in the first period of Game 5. Gibson is listed as questionable tonight. Bernier is 1-1 with a 2.34 GAA in the postseason in his career. 

Clearly it won’t be easy, as the Predators have been tough at home and goaltender Pekka Rinne has been unbelievable, now 11-4 with a 1.62 GAA in the postseason.

The Ducks though have been “money in the bank” in this situation in the playoffs, now 4-1 (+3.1 units) when trailing in a playoff series and 13-3 (+10 units) this year after a loss by two goals or more in their previous outing. 

And note that the Predators have struggled in this spot, going just 14-17 (-7.6 units) this season following a victory by two goals or more. 

For all the reasons listed above, play on Anaheim.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SUPER TOTAL is the over Senators/Penguins (3:00 EST).

Ottawa had a great opportunity to take a strangle-hold on this series, but came out flat in Game 4 and now it heads back to Pennsylvania for Game 5 all tied up at two games apiece with the defending champs. 

Both teams have looked great at times in this series and pretty average in others. For the most part Ottawa wins games with its defense, while the Penguins win with their offense. 

Ottawa is ranked seventh in the playoffs in scoring with 2.69 per game, while conceding the sixth lowest at 2.44.

Pittsbrugh is ranked No. 2 in the postseason on offense with 2.94 GPG, while ranked seventh in least goals allowed with 2.50 conceded.

I’ll call the Sens’ Craig Anderson and the Pens’ Matt Murray a “wash” in net. But note, Ottawa has in fact seen the total go over the number in all three games that it’s played in the postseason when tied in a playoff series, while Pittsburgh has seen the total eclipse the posted number in two of its last three home games where the total is five or less.

I think the situation lends itself to a faster-paced, higher-scoring shootout. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* O/U PERFECT STORM on the over Predators/Ducks (7:15 EST).

I had a play on the “over” in Game 4 and feel rather lucky to have earned the “push,” as after being down 2-0 for most of the game, the Predators would score two late ones to push the game to OT in the Ducks eventual 3-2 victory.

This series is all knotted up at two and suffice it to say, I do definitely expect a more wide open affair in Game 5 and look for this one to fly over the posted number sooner rather than later. 

Clearly Nashville will be looking for a better start after the sluggish Game 4 performance, getting outshot 14-2 in the first period. Anaheim fell apart defensively late, but kept its playoff goal average going at a steady three GPG, ranked No. 1 overall.

From a trend based stand point, this one also sets up a great as a higher-scoring affair, as note that the Predators have seen the total go over the number in 11 of 16 this year in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while the Ducks have seen the total eclipse the posted number in five of their last seven conference finals matchups.

With both teams pushing the pace, all signs do indeed point to a higher-scoring “over.”

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Ottawa Senators (8:00 EST).

I took the Sens as a +190 dog in Game 1 and won. I then took the “over” in Game 2 and lost. I then came back with Ottawa in Game 3.

With a chance to take a stangle hold on this series, I love the Senators to once again shutdown the Penguins and to take advantage of some shaky goaltending from Pittsburgh starter Marc-Andre Fleury, who now clearly appears to be out of gas. Matt Murray, who hasn’t seen any action in months, came on in relief and made 19 saves after Fleury allowed four goals on nine shots in the setback.. 

Whoever gets the call in net for the defending champs though, it’s safe to say that their are major issues in this department for Pittsburgh.

Meanwhile, Sens’ netminder Craig Anderson appears to be getting stronger as the playoffs progress, he made 25 saves in Game 3 and is now 10-5 with a 2.20 GAA in the postseason. 

Pittsburgh hasn’t been able to score more than one goal in a game against Ottawa and it’s not going to get any easier tonight. This Sens team is incredibly deep, talented and hungry. 

Ottawa continues to get little respect from the oddsmakers in my opinion. Play on the Senators.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOTAL OF THE MONTH is the over Ducks/Predators (8:00 EST).

Nashville has been the stingiest team in the playoffs this year, conceding just 1.76 GPG thus far. The Ducks are the highest scoring team in the league in the postseason, averaging over 3 GPG. But Anaheim has also been one of the worst on the defensive end in conceding 2.96 per contest.

Anaheim has been brilliant in this spot for bettors over the years, going 5-2 in its last seven when trailing in a playoff series. 

But I have a hard time betting against Nashville right now, as it’s one of the best in front of the home town crowd. 

Clearly the Predators have the better goaltending in Pekka Rinne, as the Ducks’ John Gibson has been nothing more than “serviceable” so far in the playoffs, going 8-5 with a 2.74 GAA and .915 save percentage.

I’ll point out though that the Ducks have seen the total go over the number in three of four already this year when trailing in a playoff series, while the Predators have seen the total sail above the posted number in three of their last four after allowing one goal or less in their previous contest.

With Anaheim pushing the pace from start to finish, all signs do indeed point to a higher-scoring affair in Game 4. Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Ottawa Senators (8:00 EST).

I played the Senators +190 in Game 1, but came up short with my play on the “over” in Game 2.

I look to get back on track here in Game 3 as I think the home side is being severely undervalued in this spot.

Pittsburgh has so far looked far from dominant in this series. The Sens took Game 1, 2-1 in OT and then Pittsburgh won Game 2 by a score of 1-0. 

Ottawa is looking great at this point, it now has home ice advantage and I think it can make the most if in Game 3. 

Pittsburgh has two significant injuries as well as both Bryan Rust and Justin Schultz got injured in the first period of Game 2. Patric Hornqvist is also a game-time decision.

The Senators failed to score for the first time in 36 contests. Suffice it to say, I think the team gets back on track tonight.

And I’ll point out that Pittsburgh is just 1-2 (-1.2 units) in its last three after shutting out its opponent, while Ottawa is already a perfect 2-0 (+2.6 units) this year when tied in a playoff series.

I think the Senators offer great value at home in this matchup.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U PERFECT STORM is the under Ducks/Predators (8:00 EST).

I took Anaheim in Game 1 and lost and then came back with the Ducks -1.5 +275 on the PUCK-LINE in Game 2. When I released that pick, I had a very good feeling that the team could score an empty netter and that’s exactly what happened. Perhaps a little too close for comfort, but regardless, it now goes down as likely my most legendary NHL playoff release of all time.

In Game 3 I’m expecting the Predators to do what they do best and that’s to lock this one down from the opening face-off until the final horn. 

Nashville comes into this one ranked as the No. 1 defensive team in the playoffs by allowing just 1.75 GPG. Rinne allowed four goals in a game for the first time since March 13th in Game 2, but there’s no reason to think he’ll have back-to-back lapses though (Rinne is now 9-3 with a 1.62 GAA in the postseason.)

The Ducks have been good offensively, ranked No. 2 and they’ve been poor defensively so far in the playoffs. 

But note that Anaheim has seen the total go under the number in three of its last four after a win by two goals or more, while Nashville has seen the total dip below the posted number in two of its last three after a loss by two goals or more.

I think the writing is on the wall and a lower-scoring goaltenders battle is in the cards. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is the “over” Sens/Pens (8:00 EST).

I had a play on the Senators +190 in Game 1 and Ottawa would go on to take the contest 2-1 in overtime. It was a tight game and really it could have gone either way. 

Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much more wide open affair in Game 2 as Pittsburgh will be looking to do what it does best and that’s push the pace from start to finish.

Ottawa will be forced to match tempo if it has any shot at another upset. The Senators were a solid road team in the regular season, going 22-19 away from friendly confines. So far they’re 5-2 in the playoffs (also interesting to note that Ottawa is 6-1 in OT games in the postseason thus far). 

Sens’ goaltender Craig Anderson is now 9-4 with a 2.37 GAA and .917 save percentage. Ottawa is ranked seventh in the playoffs in scoring with an average of 2.77 GPG.

Pittsburgh is ranked No. 1 on offense in the playoffs with an average of 3.23 GPG, but it looked stalled for most of Game 1. I like the Pens to get untracked here though, note that Pittsburgh has seen the total go “over” the number in four of its last five after scoring one goal or less in its previous contest.

And note that Ottawa has seen the total go over the number in its last three after scoring two goals or less in its previous contest.

Pens’ netminder Marc-Andre Fleury looked shaky in Game 1 and owns an unspectacular 2.49 GAA in the postseason to this point. 

For all the reasons listed above, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Anaheim Ducks on the “puck-line” (7:30 EST).

This is do-or-die for the Ducks, as a 2-0 hole heading back to Nashville would likely be just too much for the team to overcome for a second straight series after the Oilers did the same thing in the last round.

Anaheim had its chance, but came up short in the OT period in Game 1.

In Game 5 beween the Penguins and Capitals, I took Washington -1.5 +170 on the PUCK-LINE. The Capitals would go on to take that one 4-2. And just like in that one, I expect the Ducks not only to win this game tonight, but to win big.

Clearly it won’t be easy, as Nashville is currently the No. 1 ranked defense in the playoffs behind Pekka Rinne, who is 9-2 in the postseason with a 1.41 GAA. 

Ducks’ netminder John Gibson is 7-4 with a 2.78 GAA in the playoffs so far. He made a career-high 43 saves in Game 1. 

The Predators own the No. 1 defense, but Anaheim is no slouch on the offensive end, it comes into this one ranked No. 2 with an average of 3.08 GPG.

And I’ll point out that despite the Game 1 victory, the road team is still only 2-5 in the last seven meetings between these clubs, while Anaheim is 5-1 in its last six after scoring two goals or less in its previous game. 

Also note that the Ducks are 7-3 in their last ten when playing on one days rest.

I like Anaheim to win this game and I think it’s worth laying the 1.5 goals for the massive payout. 

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOP PLAY is the Ottawa Senators (7:00 EST).

I was 6-1 in Pittsburgh’s seven games series win over Washington. The Penguins looked great at times in that series and really poor in others. 

Ottawa needed six games to get by Boston and another six to beat New York to get this point. 

These teams played three times in the regular season and the Senators won two. 

One player to keep your eyes on for Ottawa is defensman Erik Karlsson, who has 13 points thus far in the postseason. Goaltender Craig Anderson is 8-4 with a 2.49 GAA in the playoffs to go along with a .914 save percentage and one shutout.

The Pens’ Marc-Andre Fleury is 8-4 with a 2.55 GAA and .927 save percentage in the poseason. 

I think the Sens offer a lot more than just a punchers chance in Game 1. I think Pittsburgh comes in a bit complacent and the hungry visitors take advantage.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Anaheim Ducks (9:00 EST).

The Predators advanced by beating the Blues 3-1 on Sunday, to take that series 4-2. The Ducks needed seven games to get by the Oilers, most recently a 2-1 win on Wednesday night in Game 7. 

These teams played three times in the regular season and Anaheim won two, including a 4-3 shootout victory in the last matchup on March 7th.

Nashville has looked pretty stout so far in the playoffs, having allowed a total of 14 goals over ten games. 

Pekka Rinne owns a 1.37 GAA and .951 save percentage in the postseason. 

The Predators have been the best on the defensive end in the playoffs, conceding just 1.4 GPG. 

But the Ducks are in the Conference Final for a reason as well, as they enter as the second-highest scoring team in the postseason with an average of 3.2 GPG. 

Is John Gibson as good as Rinne? Probably not. But he’s been clutch at times in the playoffs already and he’ll surely benefit from playing in front of the home town crowd tonight.

I’ll point out as well that Nashville is just 2-6 (-4.9 units) this year when playing with three or more days of rest, while Anaheim is 3-1 (+2.1 units) in its last four after giving up one or less goals in its previous contest.

Anaheim took two of three in the regular season and I think it’ll find a way to get the job done in Game 1 too. Play on the Ducks.

Good luck…Larry

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

If you’ve followed me for any length of time, you know that I rarely make selections on “money line” games of greater than -150. Occassionaly I do, but almost never.

After taking the underdog through the first four games of this series (Pens, Pens, Caps, Pens), then Washington -1.5 +170 on the “puck line” in Game 5 and then once again on the underdog Capitals in Game 6, I have no issues at all in laying this steeper price on the home side in Game 7.

This has been a back-and-forth series, but Washington has clearly gained the momentum back. Pittsburgh has up to this point been getting unbelievable goaltending from backup veteran Marc-Andre Fleury, but as I stated in my Game 6 analysis, I thought that Washington’s Braden Holtby would outduel his counterpart.

And that was the case. Holtby let in two early goals, but then shut it down the rest of the way. Washington looked very strong in bouncing back in Game 6 and I think Holtby carries that momentum over into Game 7.

The Penguins had their shot and blew it at home. Pittsburgh managed to gut out a win in Game 4 with captain Sidney Crosby sidelined in concussion protocol, but it’s stumbled since. Crosby’s health continues to be a major concern for the club and I think is a definite distraction.

I’ll point out as well that the road team is still just 4-10 the last 14 games in this series, while Washington is 41-12 in its last 53 when playing one one days rest.

Washington has outscored Pittsburgh 9-4 over the last two games and no doubt looks red hot on both ends of the ice. Lay the price with confidence, play on the Capitals.

Good luck…Larry

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

So far I’m 5-0 in this series, taking the underdog through the first four games (Pens, Pens, Caps, Pens), before then jumping on Washington -1.5 +170 in its 4-2 Game 5 victory. 

The home team has won ten of the last 13 in this series, but I think the desperate Capitals are going to find a way to get the job done tonight and send this one back to the nation’s capital for a decisive Game 7. 

For starters, Braden Holtby finally outplayed Pens netminder Marc-Andre Fleury, who in my opinion has been playing over his head to this point. Fleury of course has won Stanley Cups, but he’s now the team’s backup and was forced into service in Game 2 of their opening round series. 

Pittsburgh was ranked No. 1 in the regular season on the offensive end, while Washington wasn’t far behind in third.

The Capitals were the No. 1 defense in the league though, compared to just 17th for the Penguins.

Much like in baseball, I’m betting on Holtby in being able to outduel his counterpart today. Washington is a dangerous and motivated team and I think it offers great value in this spot.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Las Vegas Insider is the “under” Ducks/Oilers (7:05 EST).

I had the Ducks in Game 5 and clearly I feel pretty lucky to have earned that win. The Oilers are kicking themselves right now after letting a three-goal lead with three minutes left to play slip away in Game 5. 

The Ducks scored a historic three goals in just three minutes and then won in OT 4-3. So far four of the first five games in this series have flown above the posted number, but I think the conditions are now finally right for a lower-scoring “under.”

For one thing, both these teams are going to be dead tired after back-to-back extra period games. Both teams came into this series with red-hot goaltending, but neither John Gibson nor Cam Talbot have looked particularly good in this series.

For arguments sakes, let’s call the netminders a “wash” in this one. 

What I will point out though is that Anaheim has seen the total go under the number in 14 of 23 this year after scoring four goals or more in its previous contest, while Edmonton has seen the total dip below the posted number in 16 of 25 home games this season when the total is set at 5.5.

A couple of dead tired teams. The home side desperate for a victory to stay alive, with the visiting team looking to close out. When you add it all up, I think this one falls under the number once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry

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

So far I’m a perfect 4-0 in this series, taking the underdog every single time. Last time out I had the Pens and they’d rally for a 6-2 win with captain Sidney Crosby sidelined with a head injury. 

However, I think this now sets up as classic “letdown” spot for the defending champs and I look for the clearly desperate home side to not only win this game, but win big. 

Washington has been getting plenty of shots on net, but so far that hasn’t been enough, as Pittsburgh is getting above average goaltending from Marc-Andre Fleury, combined with smothering defensive play.

But I think Pittsburgh comes into this one gassed. Crosby could play tonight, but clearly he’s not going to be even close to 100% capacity. 

I’ll point out as well that the Pens are just 1-2 (-1.3 units) in their last three after scoring six goals or more, while Washington is 12-3 (+8.2 units) this year when playing on two days rest.

Play on Washington on the puck-line.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Anaheim Ducks (10:30 EST).

I played the Ducks in both Game’s 3 and 4 and I think they’re going to find a way to get the job done in Game 5 as well. If you didn’t get a chance to read my winning Game 4 analysis, I’m going to post it again here as for the most part, the line of thinking on that selection also directly applies to tonight’s pick as well:

I played the Ducks in Game 3 and I think they’ll find a way to get the job done at the end of the night in Game 4 as well.

The Oilers took the first two games of this series, but Anaheim got right back into it with a dominating 6-3 win in Game 3.

The Ducks have to be liking their chances tonight as well as they’re now 28-10 in the last 38 games in this series.

Anaheim wasn’t great on the road in the regular season, but so far it’s 3-0 away from friendly confines in the playoffs. Keep your eyes on Jakob Silfverberg, who now has six goals in the postseason.

I think these goaltenders are a “wash,” as either John Gibson of the Ducks or Cam Talbot of the Oilers has the ability to take over a game on any given night (Talbot is 6-3 with a 2.47 GAA in the playoffs, while Gibson is 4-2 with a 2.80 GAA).

I’ll point out that Anaheim is 33-19 (+9.2 units) in its last 52 when playing on two days rest, while Edmonton is just 4-7 (-4.8 units) in the same position this season.

I had a feeling that the Ducks would come out poised in Game 3 and that it was the Oilers that had the pressure on them to perform in front of the home town crowd.

And I think that line of thinking also applies in this one as well.

Expect the Ducks’ veteran leadership to once again get the better of the younger Oilers.

“Momentum” is a very real, almost tangible factor in the playoffs and it’s one that I believe the oddsmakers often have a hard time properly quantifying into a line. And that’s the case here in my opinion.

All things considered, I do indeed feel we’re getting an excellent price on the surging Ducks.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Las Vegas Insider is the under Sens/Rangers (7:30 EST).

Ottawa took the first two games of this series at home, before New York bounced back with a 4-1 win in Game 3 on its home ice. This should be a competitive Game 4, as despite the Game 3 setback, the Sens are still 27-12 their last 39 trips to The Big Apple.

Craig Anderson will get the call in net for the visitors and so far he’s 6-3 with a 2.28 GAA and .917 save percentage in the postseason. 

The home side counters with Henrik Lundqvist, who is 5-4 with a 2.03 GAA and .935 save percentage in the playoffs. 

Obviously this is a major game in the series, either tying it up For New York, or with Ottawa taking a strangle-hold.

Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a very tightly-checked, “chippy” affair. 

I’ll point out as well that Ottawa has seen the total go under the number in four of its last five following a loss by three or more goals, while New York has seen the total dip below the posted number in six of its last eight in the second round of the playoffs.

Lundqvist has given up just three goals over his last three home games. I’m banking on these two goaltenders on being the main story lines in tomorrow’s summaries. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ODDSMAKER’S ERROR is on the Anaheim Ducks (10:00 EST).

I played the Ducks in Game 3 and I think they’ll find a way to get the job done at the end of the night in Game 4 as well.

The Oilers took the first two games of this series, but Anaheim got right back into it with a dominating 6-3 win in Game 3. 

The Ducks have to be liking their chances tonight as well as they’re now 28-10 in the last 38 games in this series.

Anaheim wasn’t great on the road in the regular season, but so far it’s 3-0 away from friendly confines in the playoffs. Keep your eyes on Jakob Silfverberg, who now has six goals in the postseason. 

I think these goaltenders are a “wash,” as either John Gibson of the Ducks or Cam Talbot of the Oilers has the ability to take over a game on any given night (Talbot is 6-3 with a 2.47 GAA in the playoffs, while Gibson is 4-2 with a 2.80 GAA). 

I’ll point out that Anaheim is 33-19 (+9.2 units) in its last 52 when playing on two days rest, while Edmonton is just 4-7 (-4.8 units) in the same position this season.

I had a feeling that the Ducks would come out poised in Game 3 and that it was the Oilers that had the pressure on them to perform in front of the home town crowd.

And I think that line of thinking also applies in this one as well.

Expect the Ducks’ veteran leadership to once again get the better of the younger Oilers.

Play on Anaheim.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Pittsburgh Penguins (7:15 EST).

I played the Penguins in Game’s 1 and 2 and then came back with the Capitals in Game 3. 

Sidney Crosby is out, but the Pens are an incredibly deep team and I think they offer great value as a slight dog at home in this situation.

The Capitals finished as the Presidents Cup Trophy Winners in the regular season, but despite the Game 3 setback, so far it’s been Pittsburgh which has looked like the better team in this series.

The Penguins are stacked from top to bottom with talent and have been getting World class goaltending from veteran Marc-Andre Fleury. Pittsburgh was an OT goal away from having a 3-0 stranglehold on this series, but the Pens still have to be liking their chances tonight, even without their captain in the line-up.

I think the goaltenders are a “wash.” 

Braden Holtby got the win for Washington last time out and he’s now 5-4 with a 2.54 GAA in the postseason. 

Fleury is 6-2 with a 2.44 GAA so far in the playoffs. Either one of these guys has the capability of taking over a game on any given night.

Ultimately I feel that the Pens will step up and rally in this moment after their leader has gone down. The defending champs won’t be going down without a fight and as I stated off the top, I feel they offer tremendous value in this position. Washington has been in this spot many times over the last few years and has consistently choked (still just 6-10, -5.6 units in the second round of the playoffs the L3 years combined).

Play on Pittsburgh.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ODDSMAKER’S ERROR is on the St. Louis Blues (9:35 EST).

I think the desperate Blues offer great value here to steal Game 4.

So far this has been a competitive series, with each team trading victories to this point. Nashville took Game 1, 4-3, while the Blues took Game 2, 3-2. 

Nashville then won 3-1 in Game 3. Now it’s time for St. Louis to get back on track here and snatch back the home ice advantage.

Pekka Rinne has been unbelievable for the Predators, but Jake Allen has been pretty good for St. Louis as well. Allen is 5-3 with a 2.04 GAA and 93.8 save percentage in the postseason, while Rinne is 6-1 with a 1.38 GAA and 95.0 save percentage. 

Rinne’s numbers are better, but not by that much. Clearly either one of these netminders has the capability to completely take over a game on any given night. So in my opinion, that means that they’re a “wash.”

The Blues had scored ten goals in three games previous before Game 3 and I think that offense wakes up again tonight.

I’ll point out that St. Louis is 14-10 (+3.3 units) this year after a loss by two goals or more, while Nashville is just 12-17 (-9.6 units) this season following a win by two goals or more. 

I think that Nashville finally has a letdown here and the hungry Blues find a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Washington Capitals (7:30 EST).

I played on Pittsburgh in Game’s 1 and 2 of this series, but for Game 3 I’m backing the now desperate Capitals, which are essentially in a “do-or-die” scenario tonight.

Washington lost to the Pens in the second round of the playoffs last year as well. The Capitals were a good road team this season, finishing 25-19 away from friendly confines.

Braden Holtby took his second loss in a row, he’s now 26-28 with a 1.98 GAA lifetime in the postseason. The Capitals finished third in scoring offense in the regular season, and No. 1 on the defensive end in conceding just 2.16. 

Clearly Pittsburgh looks pretty dominant right now, but so too did the Oilers after they grabbed a 2-0 series lead over Anaheim, only to then fall 6-3 at home in Game 3 last night (I had a play on the Ducks in that one.)

Marc-Andre Fleury has looked great to this point for Pittsburgh, but one has to wonder when he’ll have his first “hiccup?” The Pens finished with the No. 1 offense in the regular season with 3.39 GPG, while ranked just 17th on the defensive end in conceding 2.79. 

I’ll point out though that Washington is 27-14 (+7.6 units) in its last 41 after a loss by two goals or more in its previous contest.

I think the desperate Capitals offer great value here, play on Washington.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Anaheim Ducks (7:00 EST

I played the Ducks in Game’s 1 and 2 and I’m obviously 0-2 at this point. But with its back against the wall, I think Anaheim finds a way to get the job done in Game 3.

I will admit, I’m obviously surprised at how well the younger Oilers have played to this point. Momentum is a very real, almost tangible factor at times in sports (especially in the playoffs) and Edmonton would seemingly have it on its side.

But I’m not writing off Anaheim quite yet. The Ducks steamrolled the Flames in four straight games, but have been caught a little flat-footed against the speedy Oilers.

Now that the series has shifted North of the border, I think we’re going to see a much more aggressive attack from this veteran laden Anaheim team.

So far Cam Talbot has gotten the better of John Gibson in net, but I still firmly believe that the goaltenders are completely even in this series. 

The trends also support us here, as note that the Ducks are 10-5 (+5.6 units) this year in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while the Oilers are just 7-8 (-2 units) this year after playing three consecutive road games and only 7-9 (-4 units) after a three game unbeaten streak.

Anaheim outshot Edmonton 40-23 in Game 3 and it’s now outshot the Oilers in both games. Something has to give tonight and as this is essentially a “do-or-die” game for the Ducks, I think the correct call is on the visitors tonight. Play on Anaheim.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ODDSMAKER’S ERROR is on the Pittsburgh Penguins (8:00 EST).

I played on the Penguins in Game 1 and I think they’re going to roll in Game 2 as well.

These teams are very familiar with each other and for the most part, they’re pretty much even across the board. Goaltending is a “wash” in my opinion.

The Pens have a bit more depth on the offensive side of the ice though, which I think will once again prove to be too much for Washington to overcome.

The numbers/trends also heavily favor Pittsburgh in this one, as note that the Pens are 10-6 (+2.1 units) in their last 16 when leading in a playoff series, while the Capitals are only 5-9 (-4.9 units) in their last 14 in the second round of the playoffs.

The value is simply too good to turn down, play on Pittsburgh.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Anaheim Ducks (10:30 EST).

As the playoffs wear on, the stakes continue to rise. This is now essentially the Ducks’ most important game of the entire season. A 2-0 hole heading back to Edmonton would likely be just too much for Anaheim to dig out of.

It’s “do-or-die” for the Ducks and I expect them to answer the challenge.

Anaheim has to be feeling pretty confident too, as despite dropping Game 1, it’s still won nine of the last 12 home games in this series.

I think the goaltenders are a “wash” in this series, as Edmonton’s Cam Talbot and Anaheim’s John Gibson are very evenly matched numbers wise, both in the regular season and in the playoffs.

During the regular season, the Oilers were a bit better offensively than the Ducks, but Anaheim was better on the defensive end.

As I said, these teams are clearly very evenly matched.

Experience is one department which favors the Ducks though. It didn’t matter in Game 1, but I do think it’ll have an impact in Game 2. The senior members of Anaheim have been in this spot before and know what it takes to prevail. Certainly the Ducks won’t be panicking.

Conversely, it’s not too hard to imagine the younger Oilers coming in a tiny bit complacent here after their upset win, just happy to earn the split they wanted and looking ahead to the comforts of home.

For all the reasons listed above, play on Anaheim.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Pittsburgh Penguins (7:30 EST).

I think the defending champs offer great value to take Game 1 tonight.

Pittsburgh smashed the Blue Jackets in five games in the first round, while Washington needed six to dispatch the Leafs. Note that these teams split a pair of games in the regular season. 

The Pens have to be feeling pretty confident though as they’d bounce the Capitals in six games in the second round last year.

Pittsburgh comes in with a ton of momentum as well, as it would score 21 goals in the five game series win over Columbus. Evgeni Malkin was huge with two goals and nine assists. Marc Andre Fleury was strong in Round 1, finishing the series with a 2.52 GAA.

TJ Oshie was a standout for Washington in the series win over Toronto with three goals and four assists. Braden Holtby looked kind of average against the Leafs, but still finished with a 2.36 GAA.

The numbers support Pittsburgh tonight, as the Pens are 20-7-1 in their last 28 after scoring more than five goals in their previous outing, while the Capitals are just 1-7 in their last eight when playing on three or more days rest.

If the Capitals thought they had their hands full with Toronto, they’re going to be in for a big surprise this evening. This Penguins team is firing on all cylinders offensively and I have a hard time seeing Washington keeping up. Play on Pittsburgh.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Anaheim Ducks (10:30 EST).

Edmonton needed six games to get by San Jose, while Anaheim steam-rolled Calgary in four straight.

The Oilers were led by Connor McDavid, who had 40 goals in the regular season and two in the series victory over the Sharks. The visitors turn to Cam Talbot between the pipes and he was 4-2 with a 2.03 GAA against San Jose. Edmonton finished the season averaging 2.96 GPG and conceding 2.52.

The Oilers are 24-20 on the road this year, which is one of the big reasons why the team is back in the playoffs. 

The Ducks were 31-12 at the Honda Center though. Ryan Getzlaf had three goals in four games against the Flames. John Gibson gets the call in net for the home side, he’d finish 3-0 with a 2.60 GAA against Calgary (note that he’s 4-3 with a 1.84 GAA lifetime against Edmonton). Anaheim averages 2.68 GPG and concedes 2.40. 

I’ll point out as well that Edmonton is just 17-40 in its last 57 road games when playing on three or more days rest, while Anaheim is 13-3 in its last 16 following a victory.

The Oilers are just 2-9 in their last 11 at the Honda Center. The Ducks have had a few extra days rest. When you add it all up, I think the value is clearly on the home side in Game 1. Play on Anaheim.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Toronto Maple Leafs (7:05 EST).

I played on Toronto as a +195 underdog in Game 5. Washington would go to win 2-1 in OT. 

It’s the biggest game of the year for both teams, but I think home ice will prove to be a difference maker tonight. I look for the explosive Leafs to find a way to get the job done and push this one back to the nation’s capital for a decisive Game 7. 

Note that the home team has won 13 of the last 18 between these teams.

The Capitals simply have no discernible advantage over the Leafs whatsoever. Except experience.

There’s no doubt that experience counts in these types of situations, but I still think that the home ice advantage trumps that factor.

Otherwise, these teams are very even. Washington had the better defense in the regular season, but the Leafs haven’t had any issues scoring. The goaltending is also a “wash.”

I’ll point out though that Washignton is just 4-8 (-8.4 units) in its last 12 when leading in a playoff series.

The value is too good to turn down, play on Toronto.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Toronto Maple Leafs (7:35 EST).

This has been an incredibly competitive series, one which has featured a ton of offense.

It’s the best of three now and while it would seem that the Capitals would have the upperhand, I think that the Leafs offer tremendous value in this spot.

Toronto has already won in Washington and with a chance to go home with a 3-2 lead, I think the Leafs find a way to get the job done tonight.

Goaltending so far in this series hasn’t been great, so I’m going to call Frederick Andersen and Braden Holtby a “wash.” 

The Capitals featured the stronger overall defense in the regular season, but that’s not been a factor whatsoever in this series.

The Leafs’ possess an offense capable of scoring with the best of them and it hasn’t been slowed down whatsoever.

I’ll point out that Toronto is 16-9 (+6.6 units) after allowing four goals or more, while Washington is interestingly, 8-9 (-7 units) after allowing four goals or more.

In my estimation, the Capitals do not have a big advantage in this game. And that means that the value swings to the hungry dog. Play on Toronto.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the San Jose Sharks (10:35 EST).

This series is all tied up at two. San Jose smashed the Oilers 7-0 in Game 4 though and I think the Oilers come in flat-footed and “shell shocked” after that humbling beatdown.

Conversely, I’m expecting San Jose to build off its latest confidence building victory and to find a way to get the job done tonight as well. 

Martin Jones stopped all 23 shots last time out and he’s now 2-2 with a 1.24 GAA in the postseason. He’s also now 16-12 with a 1.97 GAA lifetime in the playoffs. 

Cam Talbot took the loss for Edmonton, he’s now 2-2 with a 2.22 GAA in this series and 2-3 with a 2.29 GAA lifetime in the postseason. 

I’ll point out though that San Jose is 6-3 (+3.8 units) in its last nine in the first round of the playoffs, while Edmonton is just 19-20 (-4.8 units) this year in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent. 

I think experience counts at this point of a series. The line value is simply too good to turn down here, play on San Jose.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Toronto Maple Leafs (7:05 EST).

With a chance to take a 3-1 stranglehold on this series, I think the upstart Leafs find a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Washington barely won Game 1, 3-2 in OT. Toronto then bounced back with a 4-3 win in OT in Game 2 and a 4-3 double OT win in Game 3. 

Washington was supposed to have the advantage between the pipes in this series, but Toronto’s Frederik Andersen has arguably been better than the Capitals’ Braden Holtby. Hotlby has so far allowed ten goals over the first three games. 

Andersen has conceded nine. Keep your eyes on Leafs player Tyler Bozak, who would deliver the OT winner on the power play for the winner in Game 3 (his first of the series). 

I’ll point out that Washington is a horrible 7-9 (-8 units) this season after allowing four goals or more, while Toronto is 2-1 (+1 unit) in its last three after allowing three or more goals.

Does this one mean more to Washington that it does to Toronto? Of course not. So far the Capitals have been a big disappointment and I think they’re ripe for the picking here as well. 

The line value is simply too good to turn down here, play on the Leafs.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Calgary Flames (10:05 EST).

Calgary is down 0-2 and will be risking life and limb to try and avoid the dreaded 0-3 hole. The Flames were extremely competitive against the Ducks in the first two games, but simply couldn’t get the job done.

I’ll point out though that the home team is 52-15 in the last 67 between these clubs.

John Gibson gets the nod in net for the visitors and he’s 4-4 with a 2.61 GAA in the postseason. That doesn’t bode well in my opinion, as the Ducks were just 17-24 on the road this year. 

Brian Elliot gets the nod for the home side and he went 15-8 with a 2.25 GAA in Calgary this season. Also note that the Flames are 21-7 in their last 28 after scoring two goals or less in their previous game.

I think the shift in venue has a big impact in this series and look for the Flames to come away with a convincing victory in Game 3.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the New York Rangers (7:05 EST).

I’ve played on New York in the first two games. The Rangers took Game 1, 2-0, while the Habs managed a 4-3 OT victory in Game 2.

Habs’ netminder Carey Price is 24-28 with a 2.58 GAA in the postseason. The Canadiens are ranked 15th in the league in scoring with just 2.72 GPG, while ranked fourth in goals allowed with just 2.41.

Rangers’ goalie Henrik Lundqvist is now 56-60 with a 2.27 GAA in his playoff career. New York is ranked fourth in the league in scoring with 3.09 GPG and 12th in goals allowed with 2.61. 

I’ll point out though that Montreal is just 12-14 (-6.2 units) this year after scoring four goals or more in its previous contest, while New York is 14-9 (+2.8 units) after allowing four goals or more.

I like the Rangers to bounce back and defend home ice here. Lay the very reasonable price.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Edmonton Oilers (10:35 EST).

It’s do-or-die for the Oilers essentially tonight as a 2-0 hole heading back to San Jose for Game 3 would likely be too much for them to overcome.

I actually had a play on San Jose in its Game 1 victory (the 10* play in my Opening Night Superstar Triple Play), but I think the value is definitely on the home side in Game 2 and can’t understand how this line isn’t a lot higher.

The Sharks stole Game 1 after being down 2-0 and scoring the winner in OT. 

The Oilers also commited six penalties in Game 1, one of which led to a Sharks goal: “We’ve got to stay out of the box,” Oilers’ forward Jordan Eberle lamented afterwards. “You lose momentum by doing that. The guys who kill (the penalties) are wasting a lot of energy and the guys who aren’t are sitting on the bench. We had a tough time generating some momentum after that.”

I don’t think there is anything to worry about if you’re an Oilers fan. Edmonton has all the pieces in place here for an immediate and confident bounce back, note that the Oilers finished eighth in the league in scoring this year with an average of 3.00 GPG. 

I’ll also point out that despite earning the Game 1 victory, San Jose is still just 2-6 in its last eight on the road, while Edmonton is 9-1 in its last ten in front of the home town crowd.

All signs point to a bounce back for Edmonton.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOP DOG OPENING ROUND GAME OF THE YEAR is on the Toronto Maple Leafs (7:00 EST).

Can the Leafs score the big upset against the mighty Capitals?

Just ask the Sharks and the Bruins what they think about upsetting in Game 1 of the NHL Playoffs!

I cashed with both Boston and San Jose last night and I think Toronto has all the pieces in place to do the same thing in the nation’s capital this evening.

Toronto lost three of its final four to the year, but don’t read too much into that as the Leafs had already clinched and were trying to simply get through the remainder of the regular season without too many injuries.

Washington could come in complacent here as well after winning ten of its last 12 and earning its second President’s Cup trophy in a row. 

Frederick Andersen gets the nod for the visitors, he was 33-30 with a 2.67 GAA on the year and 16-13 with a 2.74 GAA on the road. Note that he’s been particularly sharp whenever facing the Capitals, going 2-1 with a 2.67 GAA.

The Leafs average 3.05 GPG and concede 2.83.

Washington averages 3.18 GPG and concedes 2.16. Braden Holtby gets the nod in net, he’s 42-19 with a 2.07 GAA on the year.

I’ll point out though that Toronto is 2-1 (+1.2 units) in its last three in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent (lost two of three to the Capitals this year), while Washington is already 0-6 (-9.8 units) this season when playing with three or more days rest.

I like the Leafs to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Play on Toronto.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* play on the San Jose Sharks (10:05 EST).

I think this is a good spot to pull the trigger on the slight, but well experienced dog this evening.

The Sharks were just 4-9-2 down the stretch, thanks in part to injuries to star players Joe Thornton and Logan Couture. Both have been out since late March. Both are cleared and are ready to go tonight though. 

San Jose goaltender Martin Jones would finish the regular season with a highly respectable 2.40 GAA and .912 save percentage. 

The Oilers finished the season on an 8-1 run and a three-game win streak to make the postseason for the first time in over a decade. All it took was about nine No. 1 picks in a row and a few years to re-tool and now finally the team has made the playoffs. 

It absolutely looks like a classic “letdown” spot for the young Oilers in my professinal opinion. 

The regular season stats and numbers all favor Edmonton, but I think the conditions are right for San Jose to spring the upset. At least in Game 1. 

Good luck…Larry

This is an 8* Las Vegas Insider on the Minnesota Wild (9:05 EST).

The 48-25-6-2 Minnesota Wild are in Arizona to take on the 30-41-8-1 Coyotes and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Arizona looks poised for a letdown here after winning three of its last four. 

Minnesota looks to go into the playoffs on a high-note and it comes into this one on fire, having won three straight. Devan Dubnyk had 30 saves for his career high 40th win in a victory over the Avs on Thursday. He’s 40-19-5 on the year with a 2.25 GAA. The Wild average 3.21 GPG and concede just 2.53.

The Coyotes average 2.35 GPG and concede 3.15. Mike Smith is 19-25-9 on the year with a 2.92 GAA.

I’ll point out that the Wild care 12-4 in their last 16 against the Pacific division, while the Coyotes are 3-8 in their last 11 following a victory.

The Wild haven’t lost to the Coyotes in regulation since 2013 and I don’t see them taking the foot off the gas at this point of the season. Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the LA Kings (10:30 EST).

The 44-25-9 Edmonton Oilers are in LA to take on the 37-34-7 Kings and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

I believe the Oilers will finally have a letdown here after winning five games in a row, most recently defeating Anaheim in OT this past Saturday. 

LA looks to get back on track, it had won two straight before an embarrasing loss to Arizona this past Sunday which officially eliminated the team from postseason contention.

The Kings play with revenge here though after falling to the Oilers 2-1 last Tuesday. 

LA will be looking to take out its frustrations on someone after a disappointing season: “With the amount of power plays we had in the third period, we should have finished them,” Kings’ captain Anze Kopitar lamented after the loss to the Coyotes. “It’s not good enough to score one goal at home, but that’s been the story of the whole season. It’s a very empty feeling and a very sour taste.”

Edmonton will be looking to escape without any significant injuries as it has its sights set on the playoffs now. 

Play on the Kings.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U Las Vegas Insider is the over Predators/Blues (4:05 EST).

The 39-27-7-4 Nashville Predators are in St. Louis to take on the 42-28-5-2 Blues and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive shootout written all over it.

Nashville lost 3-1 to Toronto before then bouncing back with a 3-0 afternoon win over the Wild at home on Saturday. 

St. Louis looks to get back into the winners circle after a humbling 2-1 shootout loss to the lowly Avs on Friday night.

The Blues also play with revenge here, as Nashville has taken three of four in the season series this year. 

Nashville allows 2.7 GPG, ranked 15th overall and averages 2.9, which ranks ninth.

St. Louis allows 2.6 and averages 2.8, ranked fourth in the league.

I’ll point out that Nashville has seen the total go over the number in three of its last four after shutting out its opponent in its previous outing, while St. Louis has seen the total sail above the posted number in two of its last three after scoring one goal or less.

I think each team will have its chances here and look for this total to indeed fly over as it comes down the stretch.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Toronto Maple Leafs (7:05 EST).

The 37-24-7-8 Toronto Maple Leafs are in Detroit to take on the 31-34-12-0 Wings and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Wings are toast, their season is done and they’ll miss the playoffs for the first time since the early 90’s. 

Toronto is surging, it’s headed to the postseason and comes in off a 3-1 win over the Predators, its fifth victory in its last six outings. 

The Leafs scored twice on the power play in the win over Nashville and they own the second best PP in the league at 23.9 percent.

Frederik Andersen is 9-2-1 in his last ten and 4-0-0 with a tiny 1.97 GAA against Detroit.

Detroit is “gassed.” Its 5-3 loss at Tampa on Thursday was ifs fourth game in the last five days and fifth in the past seven. Note that the Wings are 28th on the power play this year, with a 14.4 percent success rate.

I’ll point out that the Leafs are 5-1 in their last six against the Eastern Conference, while the Wings are just 3-9 in their last 12 when playing on one days rest.

I think Toronto could easily be favored by more here, play on the Leafs.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Edmonton Oilers (9:05 EST).

The Sharks got off the schneid with a 5-4 OT win over the Rangers on Tuesday, breaking a string of six straight losses. Despite its recent slide, San Jose is not in any trouble of missing the postseason, currently sitting in fourth.

The Oilers come in having won three straight, currently sitting in fifth. Clearly Edmonton would love to leap-frog the Sharks for fourth spot so as to ensure home ice in the first round of the playoffs. 

And with a game tomorrow night in Calgary, it’s definitely not to difficult to imagine San Jose getting caught “looking ahead” here as well.

It’s a perfect set of situational circumstances working in favor of the surging home side, but also note that San Jose is in fact just 1-2 (-1.2 units) in its last three after scoring five goals or more, while Edmonton is 2-1 (+1.2 units) in its last three after a three games or longer unbeaten streak.

All things considered, I think we’re getting a very fair price in this one, play on the Oilers.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the San Jose Sharks (10:30 EST).

The 46-26-3-1 New York Rangers are in San Jose to take on the 42-26-6-1 Sharks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

There’s no need to overthink this one in my opinion, as the Sharks will be desperate today after six straight defeats. New York owns the leagues best road record, but I think it’ll have its hands full with this desperate and hungry Sharks side.

The Rangers conclude a difficult West coast road trip tonight, two nights after completing a back-to-back in which they won 3-0 at LA and lost 6-3 in Anaheim the following night. 

The Sharks are coming off back-to-back humbling defeats, losing 6-1 in Dallas on Friday and then 7-2 by the Predators just 24 hours later.

It would be easy to make a case for the underdog Rangers here when looking at recent stats, but I think the situation definitely favors the home side.

And note, New York is in fact just 5-7 (-1.8 units) in its last 12 against teams with winning records, while San Jose is 8-4 (+2.8 units) this season following a loss by two goals or more in its previous outing. 

I think the Blue Shirts run out of gas at the end of their road trip and expect the Sharks to risk life and limb today in trying to get off the schneid. Play on San Jose.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the New York Islanders (7:00 EST).

The 38-25-7-4 Nashville Predators are in New York to take on the 35-27-8-4 Islanders and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Nashville comes to town off a 7-2 home win over the Sharks and it’s now won six of its last seven. Suffice it to say, I think this one sets up as a classic letdown spot/trap game for the visitors tonight.

Conversely, the Isles will be eager to get back into the winners circle after a tough 2-1 home loss to the Bruins in their last outing. New York has now dropped three of its last five and sits 1.5 games back for eighth spot in the Eastern Playoff race. 

Predators goaltender Pekka Rinne is just 10-15 with a pedestrian 2.67 GAA on the road this year, while against the Isles he’s only 4-4 with a 2.63 GAA lifetime.

Islanders’ goaltender Thomas Greiss is 12-9 with a 2.64 GAA at home, but Jaroslav Halak is expected between the pipes, note that he’s 12-7 with a 1.84 GAA lifetime against Nashville. 

I think this one means a lot more to New York and I expect it to risk life and limb today in trying to notch the victory. All things considered, this is a great price on the desperate home side in my opinion. Play on the Islanders.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* Las Vegas Insider on the Anaheim Ducks (9:05 EST).

The 45-25-1-3 New York Rangers are in Anaheim to take on the 40-23-8-3 Ducks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

No need to overthink this one in my opinion. It’s true that the Rangers average the fourth most goals in the league (3.14) and concede the 11th least (2.59), but New York played and won 3-0 in LA just last night. Suffice it to say, despite Henrik Lundqvist getting the start tonight after getting rest in last night’s victory, I believe the Blue Shirts come in “flat footed” in the second game of the back-to-back. 

Anaheim is surging towards the finish line, it’s now won seven of its last nine after getting the better of Winnipeg 3-1 on Friday. 

The Ducks are in the middle of the pack on both ends of the ice, but note that Anaheim has excelled in this spot for bettors, going 21-14 (+4.4 units) in revenging a loss against an opponent, while New York has struggled by going just 1-2 (-1.2 units) in its last three in the second game of the back-to-back.

Anaheim goaltender Jonahtan Bernier has allowed an average of just 1.28 GPG over his last seven starts. Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the LA Kings (10:30 EST).

The 42-25-1-3 New York Rangers are in LA to take on the 35-31-3-4 Kings and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

New York comes to the West Coast on a two-game slide. In fact, the Rangers hae dropped four of their past five, most recently a 3-2 OT setback to the Devils. Antti Raanta is 15-8-2 with a 2.35 GAA this year. 

LA comes in off a 5-2 win over the Jets on Thursday. Goaltender Ben Bishop is 1-2-2 with a 2.48 GAA since coming over from the Lightning, while Jon Quick is 4-2-0 with a 2.48 GAA against New York lifetime.

I’ll point out that New York is just 1-4 in its last five in this series, while LA is 17-8 in its last 25 against teams with a winning percentage above .600. 

The Kings have won six of nine at home and are in desperation mode as the season comes down the stretch. I’m laying the price.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the LA Kings (10:35 EST).

The 33-33-6-1 Winnipeg Jets are in LA to take on the 34-31-3-4 Kings and for a number of different reaons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the Jets come in complacent after three straight victories. Conversely, it’s all hands on deck for the Kings who have dropped four of their last five.

Winnipeg averages 2.99 GPG and concedes 3.16. Connor Hellebuyck owns a poor 2.90 GAA on the year. 

LA averages 2.40 GPG and concedes 2.46. Jon Quick is 5-2-1 on the year with a 2.21 GAA, while Ben Bishop is 3-1-1 with a 1.97 GAA lifetime against the Jets.

I’ll point out though that this is a spot in which Winnipeg has already struggled in mightily for bettors this season, going just 11-17 (-6.1 units) after a non-conference contest and only 18-20 (-2.5 units) in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent.

And note, this is a position in which the Kings have done fairly well in, going 7-4 (+2.2 units) this year when playing with two days of rest and 11-8 (+1.2 units) after a loss by two goals or more in their previous contest. 

For all of the reasons listed above, I think LA offers great value in this spot. Play the Kings.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Minnesota Wild (8:35 EST).

The 42-22-6-1 San Jose Sharks are in Minnesota to take on the 43-22-4-2 WIld and for a number of different reasons I think this one favors the home side.

The Wild will be risking life and limb today as they look to snap a five-game losing streak. San Jose comes off a game in Dallas on Monday and win or lose that one, will clearly be “gassed” on Tuesday.

If recent history is any precedence, then Minnesota has to be liking its chances to get back into the winners circle today as it’s already taken both meetings with the Sharks this year, 5-4 and 3-1 respectively.

These teams are very evenly matched, getting balanced scoring up and down the lines, while also being a couple of the top defensive clubs, with each also receiving world class goaltending.

But the motivation behind the extended losing streak, combined with the second game of the back-to-back for the Sharks heavily favors the Wild from a situational stand point. 

In my professional opinion, this is the very definition of “great line value.” Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Detroit Red Wings (7:30 EST).

The 29-31-6-6 Buffalo Sabres are in Detroit to take on the 28-31-11-0 Red Wings and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

No need to overthink this one in my opinion, as I believe the Sabres are due for a predictable letdown here after a rare 2-1, shootout road victory over the Ducks. 

Buffalo averages 2.47 GPG and concedes 2.83. 

Detroit averages 2.41 GPG and concedes 3.00.

These are two teams which have struggled in all facets of the game for most of the season. Each has also gotten inconsistent goaltending this year. When you add it all up, each finds itself almost mathematically eliminated from playoff contention. 

For arguments sake I am calling the goaltending a “wash.” Home ice advantage simply can’t be overlooked here though, as Detroit has won 15 of the last 18 in this series at Joe Louis Arena. 

All signs point to a comfortable victory, lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 29-27-7-5 Carolina Hurricanes are in Philadelphia to take on the 32-30-4-4 Flyers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

No need to overthink this one in my opinion. Carolina comes in off two straight victories, including a very satisfying 4-2 win at home over Nashville just last night. The Hurricanes are great at home (21-10-3-1), but horrible on the road (9-17-4-4).

The Flyers play with “revenge” after dropping the most recent in the series 5-1 on January 31st. 

Philadelphia comes in off a humbling 6-2 loss at the Devils and will embark on a lengthy road trip after this game at home tonight. Clearly the Flyers need to make the most of familar confines.

I’ll point out that Carolina is just 2-5 in its last seven in the second game of a back-to-back, while Philadelphia is 24-8 the last 32 in this series in front of the home town crowd.

When taking into account the strong situational, motivational and trend based factors working in their favor, the Flyers could easily be much bigger favorites in this spot in my opinion. Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Goin Over Total is the over Capitals/Lightning (7:05 EST).

The 45-17-3-5 Washington Capitals are in Tampa Bay to take on the 34-27-6-3 Lightning and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has shootout written all over it.

Washington will be eager here to return to the winners circle after a 2-1 OT loss at home to Nashville. In fact, the Capitals have now lost five of their last six.

Tampa can empathize and will be equally motivated this evening after a humbling 5-0 home loss to Toronto. Despite that lop-sided blowout, the Bolts have in fact played pretty well of late, having won four of their last five.

I’ll point out that the “over” is 9-3 in the last 12 meetings between the clubs in Tampa Bay.

Washington averages 3.17 GPG and concedes 2.16. That defense has looked pretty mediocre over the last five games though. 

Tampa averages 2.67 GPG and concedes 2.70. 

I’ll point out though that the Capitals have seen the total go over the number in 12 of 15 road games this year with a total of 5 or less and in five of eight after scoring one goal or less in their previous contest, while the Lightning have seen the total eclipse the posted number in 12 of 18 this year after allowing four goals or more and in 12 of 20 after a loss by two goals or more. 

Washington is chomping at the bit to break out of its funk, while the Lightning are also making a push towards the postseason. I believe everything points to a higher-scoring affair, play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U PERFECT STORM is the over Sabres/Ducks (10:05 EST).

The 28-30-6-6 Buffalo Sabres are in Anaheim to take on the 37-23-8-2 Ducks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has offensive shootout written all over it.

Buffalo looks to get back on track after a 2-0 loss in LA last night. The Sabres have now lost ten of their last 12. Over that stretch they’ve averaged 3.23 GPG, but allowed 3.43. 

Anaheim is 23-11 at home this year. It averages 2.58 GPG and concedes 2.49. 

Buffalo isn’t out of the playoff picture yet, but it needs to start stringing some wins together immediately. I’ll point out that the Sabres have in fact seen the total go over the number in 16 of 24 non-conference games this season, in ten of 13 when playing on back to back days and in nine of 14 in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while Anaheim has seen the total fly above the posted number in four of its last six non-conference contest.

Play the over.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Tampa Bay Lightning (7:35 EST).

The 31-23-14 Toronto Maple Leafs are at Tampa Bay to take on the 34-26-9 Lightning and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Leafs got hammered 7-2 in Florida on Tuesday, goaltender Frederik Andersen gave up three goals on eight shots, before getting pulled for Curtis McElhinney. 

Tampa Bay comes in with momentum though, most recently picking up a hard-fought 2-1 OT win over the surging Senators. Victor Hedman got the goal in the extra fame and goaltender Andrei Vasileskiy made 31 stops to help his team win its fourth straight. 

With a home game against the Blackhawks on Saturday, I think the Leafs get caught “looking ahead” here. 

Tampa has quietly been dominating of late and I don’t think is getting nearly enough respect from the books. Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Ottawa Senators (7:35 EST).

The 32-26-6-3 Tampa Bay Lightning are in Ottawa to take on the 39-22-5-1 Senators and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

No need to over think this one in my opinion, as the Lightning are playing the second game of a back-to-back. 

And that’s music to the ears of the red hot Senators who have won six in a row. 

Tampa will surely be gassed here after the Monday night matchup against the Rangers. Goaltender Andrej Vasilevskly is expected to get the start and he’s 2-2-0 with a 2.56 GAA lifetime against the Sens. 

The Lightning average 2.72 GPG and concede 2.70. 

The Senators average 2.66 GPG and concede 2.57. Craig Anderson is 21-8-1 with a 2.23 GAA this year and 8-4-3 with a 1.88 career GAA agains the Bolts.

I’ll point out though that Ottawa is just 4-11 in its last 15 in the second game of the back-to-back, while Ottawa is 5-2 in its last seven at home.

Tampa has won just four of its last 11 on the road, while Ottawa has won three straight at home. All signs point to a fourth here and all things considered, I think we’re getting a great price on the surging home side. Play on the Senators.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Pittsburgh Penguins (9:05 EST).

The 43-16-6-2 Pittsburgh Penguins are in Calgary to take on the 38-26-2-2 Flames and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Pittsburgh has won five straight, while Calgary has won nine straight. These are two teams performing at very peak effeciency, but I think the high-powered Penguins will prove to be just too much for the Flames to handle tonight.

The Pens outshot Vancouver 48-27 in their most recent 3-0 win on Saturday. Matt Murray is now 26-8-3 with a 2.33 GAA.

Pittsburgh averages a league-leading 3.48 GPG and concedes 2.75.

Calgary averages 2.71 GPG and concedes 2.65. Goaltender Brian Elliott is 12-1-1 in his last 14 outings. 

I’ll point out though that Pittsburgh is 7-3 (+3 units this year in revenging a home loss against an opponent, as the Flames scored a 3-2 OT victory earlier in the season) and 3-0 (+3 units) after shutting out their opponent, while Calgary is just 1-2 (-1.2 units) in its last three after a six games or longer unbeaten streak.

If recent history is any precedence, then the visitors have to be loving their chances tonight as they’ve won five of the last six in Calgary. 

I think the Pens’ No. 1 offense turns out to be the difference maker tonight, play on Pittsburgh.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONFERENCE TOTAL OF THE MONTH is the under Rangers/Red Wings.

The 43-23 New York Rangers are in Detroit to take on the 26-29-11-0 Red Wings on Sunday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has defensive battle written all over it.

The Rangers have won three of four before falling 4-3 at Carolina on Thursday. Detroit comes in off a 4-2 win over Chicago on Friday, a victory which snapped a four-game losing streak.

These teams played on January 22nd and the Rangers would sneak away with the 1-0 OT victory. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting another hard-fought, lower-scoring affair this evening.

New York uncharacteristically let in a couple late goals to the Hurricanes in its most recent loss. The Rangers average 3.2 GPG and concede 2.6. Expect to Antti Raanta back in the net tonight as he’ll look to rebound on the road.

This will likely be the first time that the Wings have missed the postseason since 1989. Detroit averages just 2.4 GPG and is last in the league on the power play, converting just 12.4 percent of its chances. 

I’ll point out that New York has seen the total go under the number in three of its last four after allowing four goals or more, while Detroit has seen the total dip below the posted number in six of eight after a win by two goals or more.

I think the writing is on the wall and a lower-scoring goaltenders battle is in the cards. Play the UNDER.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Washington Capitals (10:30 EST).

The 44-15-2-5 Washington Capitals are in LA to take on the 32-28-3-3 Kings and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Capitals will be hungry here after consecutive defeats, most recently falling 4-2 to the Sharks on Thursday. Goaltender Braden Holtby is now 34-10-5 with a 1.97 GAA.

Washington averages 3.23 GPG and allows the least with 2.09. 

LA goaltender Jon Quick is 3-0-1 with a 2.46 GAA on the year, recently returning from injury. Ben Bishop is 16-13-4 with a 2.58 GAA on the year.

LA averages just 2.45 GPG and concedes 2.47. 

I’ll point out that Washington is still 14-5 (+6 units) in non-conference games this year, while LA is just 4-5 (-2.6 units) after playing three consecutive home games.

I think the “desperate” Capitals find a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Toronto Maple Leafs (7:35 EST0.

The 31-26-4-4 Philadelphia Flyers are in Toronto to take on the 29-22-6-8 Leafs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Flyers come to town off a 6-3 road victory over the Sabres and they’ve now won three of their last four. 

The Leafs broke a five-game home losing streak with a 3-2 win over Detroit last time out and suffice it to say, I’m expecting the team to carry that momentum over here.

Note that these teams have already split a pair of games this year, each winning in its own barn.

Philadelphia is back in the conversation for the playoffs, but note that the six goals it scored in the win over the Sabres was just the fifth time all year that the Flyers have posted more than four markers in a game. 

Also note, that despite the victory Philadelphia remains just 12-20 away from friendly confines. Goaltender Steve Mason is 19-24 with a 2.76 GAA and 7-15 with a 3.03 GAA on the road. He’s also just 4-8 with a 3.43 GAA lifetime against Toronto.

Philly averages 2.52 GPG and concedes 2.91.

Toronto averages 3.02 GPG and concedes 2.88. Goaltender Frederik Andersen is 25-27 with a 2.72 GAA on the year, including 15-15 with a 2.63 GAA at home. He’s also 5-0 with a 2.71 GAA lifetime against Philadelphia. 

I’ll point out that Philadelphia is just 8-10 (-2.9 units) this season after scoring four goals or more in its previous contest, while Toronto is 2-1 (+1 unit) in its last three in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent. 

I like Andersen to easily outduel his inconsistent counterpart. All things considered, I think we’re getting a very fair price in this matchup, play on the Leafs.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Edmonton Oilers (9:00 EST).

The 30-23-7-4 New York Islanders are in Edmonton to take on the 35-22-4-4 Oilers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

The Islanders lost 5-2 in Calgary and have now dropped three of their last four, while Edmonton enters off a tough 4-3 home win over Detroit and it’s now won two straight. 

These teams played to a close one on Long Island, but it was the Oilers that managed the 4-3 shootout win back in November.

New York averages 2.92 GPG and concedes 2.95. Gotlatender Thomas Greiss was removed after allowing four goals in the first period in the loss to Calgary. He’s 9-12 with a 2.62 GAA on the road now.

Edmonton averages 2.82 GPG and concedes 2.55. Cam Talbot is 33-25 with a 2.39 GAA on the year and 5-1 with a 2.92 GAA lifetime against the Isles.

I’ll point out that New York is just 6-14 in its last 20 road games against clubs with a winning home record, while Edmonton is 5-1 in its last six home games against teams with a road winning percentage of less than .400.

New York has scored just three goals in its last two games and this is the tail end of a long road trip. The Isles have also allowed 18 goals in their last four games. 

I expect Edmonton to do more than enough to secure the victory tonight, lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on the Boston Bruins (7:30 EST).

The 34-25-5-2 Boston Bruins are in Ottawa to take on the 35-22-5-1 Senators and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Boston comes in off a 3-2 home win over New Jersey and has now won eight of its last ten, while Ottawa enters off a 3-2 home victory over Columbus, it’s now won three of its last four.

Boston averages 2.74 GPG and concedes 2.58. Goaltender Tuukka Rask is 30-19 with a 2.26 GAA on the year, including 16-11 with a 2.22 GAA on the road. 

Ottawa averages 2.57 GPG and concedes 2.60. Netminder Craig Anderson is 18-9 with a 2.29 GAA on the year and is 10-6 with a 2.36 GAA at home.

Note though that Rask owns a 2.38 GAA lifetime record against the Sens, while Anderson is 9-11 with a 3.18 GAA for his career against the Bruins.

I’ll point out as well that Boston is 8-2 in its last ten against the Atlantic division, while Ottawa is just 3-7 in its last ten following a victory.

I like Rask to outduel his counterpart, play on Boston.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BLOWOUT NHL SIDE OF THE MONTH on the Minnesota Wild (6:05 EST).

The 38-18-6-1 San Jose Sharsk are in Minnesota to take on the 41-15-4-2 Wild and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

San Jose comes to town off a 3-1 home victory over the Canucks and it’s now won three straight. There’s no question that this sets up as a bit of a letdown spot as it now takes to the road to face a Wild side coming off a 1-0 road loss in Columbus. 

Minnesota though has still won four of its last six and the home team has won 16 of the last 21 in this series. 

Martin Jones is expected in net for the visitors and he’s 15-10 with a 2.45 GAA on the road. The Sharks average 2.76 GPG and concede 2.32.

Devan Dubnyk will be in net for the home side, he’s 34-15 with a 2.03 GAA on the year, including 19-7 with a 2.04 GAA at home. The Wild average 3.32 GPG and concede 2.35. 

I’ll point out that San Jose is just 5-7 (-5.4 units) this year after a thre game unbeaten streak, while Minnesota is 16-6 (+9.7 units) against teams with winning records this season.

The Sharks have been great and are tough on the road, but the scales today tip in favor of the Wild and the home ice advantage. I’m expecting the home side to do just enough secure the victory, play on Minnesota.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the New York Rangers (7:00 EST).

The 31-26-6-2 Montreal Canadiens are in New York to take on the 41-21-0-2 Rangers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

The Habs come to town off a satisfying 2-1 home win over Nashville, while the Rangers come in off a 2-1 road win over Boston.

I think Montreal is poised for a letdown here after winning four straight. Note that goaltender Carey Price is 9-10 with a 2.76 GAA on he road. Also note that Montreal averages 2.72 GPG, while coneding 2.49.

The Rangers average 3.22 GPG and concede 2.61. Netminder Henrik Lundqvist is 15-11 with a 2.97 GAA at home.

I’ll point out though that Montreal is just 10-12 (-4.9 units) this year after a non-conference game and 13-16 (-5.9 units) against teams with winning records, while New York is 9-2 (+7.2 units) in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent.

I think the home side does just enough in this one to secure the victory. Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LAS VEGAS INSIDER is on the Calgary Flames (9:05 EST).

the 25-26 Detroit Red Wings are in Calgary to take on the 34-26 Flames and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Detroit comes to town off a 3-2 road win over the Canucks and looks poised for a letdown after winning three of its last four.

Calgary comes in on fire having won five straight, most recently a 2-1 home victory over the Kings.

Despite the victory over Vancouver, note that the Wings are still ranked just 26th in the league in scoring with 2.39 GPG. They’ve been just as bad on the defensive end in conceding 2.95, ranked 25th. Petr Mrazek is 7-11 with a 2.95 GAA on the road.

Calgary is 18th in scoring with an average of 2.63 GPG, while ranked 14th in conceding 2.75. Brian Elliot is 7-6 with a 2.30 GAA at home.

I’ll point out though that the Wings are just 12-27 in their last 39 road games against a team with a winning home record, while Calgary is 7-1 in its last eight when playing on two days rest and 18-5 in its last 23 after scoring two goals or less in its previous game.

Calgary has dialled up the pressure on the defensive end of late, allowing just six total goals over its last five games. Suffice it to say, i have a hard time seeing the inconsistent Wings mounting much of an offensive attack tonight. Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the LA Kings (10:30 EST).

The 28-21-13 Toronto Maple Leafs are in LA to take on the 30-27-6 Kings and for a number of different reasons, I thnk this one favors the home side.

The Leafs are in a tail-spin right now, having lost five of their last seven. The offense is averaging three goals per game, but it’s stalled over the last month. Note that Toronto concedes 2.9 GPG.

The Kings can empathize, they’ve lost six of their last eight. So far LA averages only 2.4 GPG, while allowing 2.5. 

For arguments sake, lets call these goaltenders a “wash.” 

Note thought that Toronto is just 5-8 (-4.6 units) this year after scoring one goal or less in its previous contest and 10-13 (-5.8 units) following a non-conference game, while LA is 2-1 (+1.2 units) after losing six of its last eight overall.

I think this late night West Coast game favors the home side in this one. Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the San Jose Sharks (10:30 EST).

The 28-20-6-7 Toronto Maple Leafs are in San Jose to take on the 32-24-3-1 Sharks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Toronto comes to town off a 3-2 OT loss to Montreal, while San Jose smashed Vancouver 4-1 in its latest action.

The Leafs are a good team, they average 3.1 GPG. Goaltender Frederik Andersen has been average this year, he owns a 24-13-11 record, behind a pedestrain 2.76 GAA. Note that Toronto allows 2.9 GPG, ranked 22nd.

The Sharks are a pretty good team as well, they average 2.8 GPG. San Jose is great on the defensive end though, ranked third overall in allowing 2.4 GPG. Martin Jones is 29-15-6 with a 2.31 GAA overall.

I’ll point out that Toronto is just 9-14 (-8.6 units) in non-conference games this year, while the Sharks are 17-11 (+2.8 units) in the same position. 

San Jose has averaged 3.2 GPG over its last ten and is 18-7-4 at home this year. The Leafs look a lot better this year, but the fact remains that they’ve still lost 12 of their last 13 against the Sharks. 

Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Minnesota Wild (7:00 EST).

The 30-27 LA Kings are in Minnesota to take on the 39-14-4-2 Wild and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

LA comes to town off a 4-1 home win over the Ducks, while Minnesota will be eager to get back on track after falling 5-3 at home to the Blackhawks.

But if recent history is any precedence, then the Wild have to be liking their chances for an immediate bounce back as the home team has won five of the last six in this series.

Despite the win over Anaheim, the Kings are still ranked just 25th in the league in scoring with an average of 2.44 GPG, while at the defensive end they’re ranked at fifth in goals allowed at 2.43.

Minnesota is third in the league in scoring with average of 3.31 GPG, while ranked second on the defensive end in conceding 2.31. 

While LA has received very good goaltending this year, I’m still going to give hte nod to the Wilds’ Devan Dubnyk, who has posted a solid 1.96 GAA at home. 

And that doesn’t bode well for a Kings team which has averaged only 2.09 GPG on the road this season. 

I’m banking on the Wild to continue their strong play at home, lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on the Toronto Maple Leafs (7:00 EST).

The 32-21-6-2 Canadiens are in Toronto to take on the 28-20-5-7 Leafs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Habs are reeling, most recently coming off a 3-0 shutout loss at home to the Isles on Thursday. 

Toronto comes in off a tough 2-1 shootout loss to New York in its latest action.

Note that this is a big time revenge game for Toronto though, as Montreal has taken all three meetings this year, winning 2-1 in the first two matchups and 5-3 in the latest. 

The “triple revenge” factor is what this play is almost entirely based upon.

But Montreal is not the same team as it was earlier in the season, it comes in having dropped eight of its last ten and its current slide looks eerily familar to last season’s debacle as well. 

So far the Habs average 2.7 GPG, while conceding 2.6.

The Leafs average 3.1 GPG and concede 2.9. 

I’ll point out that Montreal is just 1-6 in its last seven when playing on one days rest, while Toronto is 5-2 in its last seven home games against teams with a losing road record.

The Canadiens have scored two or fewer goals in eight of their last ten games and have been shutout in four of their last eight. The Leafs have averaged 3.2 GPG over their last ten and will be risking life and limb today in trying to avenge the three earlier losses.

All things considered, I think we’re getting a great price on Toronto.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Florida Panthers (7:35 EST).

The 31-26-2-2 Calgary Flames are in Florida to take on the 28-21-5-5 Panthers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

No need to overthink this one in my opinion, as the Flames enter off a highly satisfying and hard-fought 3-2 win in Tampa just last night.

Florida will be eager to take advantage and to get back on track after a tough 4-3 home loss to Edmonton. 

Also note that this is a revenge game for the Panthers after they fell 5-2 in the first meeting between the clubs earlier in the season. 

And I’ll point out that Calgary has struggled in this spot mightily for bettors, going just 6-13 in its last 19 in the third game of a 3-in-4 situation and only 1-5 in its last six in the second game of the back-to-back, while Florida has excelled in this position, going 7-3 in its last ten with one days rest. 

Florida had won five straight games on the road and then returned home to get beaten by Edmonton. Many view such a scenario as a classic “letdown” spot for a team. No such situational advantage working in favor of the Flames tonight though. Lay the price, play on the Panthers.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Tampa Bay Lightning (7:35 EST).

The 30-26-2-2 Calgary Flames are in Tampa Bay to take on the 27-24-5-3 Lightning and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Calgary looks poised for a classic letdown here after its big 6-5 OT win on the road over Nashville. Tampa most recently was very business like in its 4-1 clobbering of Edmonton.

When these teams played back in December, it was the Bolts that prevailed easily 6-3 and suffice it to say, I’m expecting a repeat performance here.

Calgary may be fighting for a playoff spot, but note that it’s just 19th in scoring with 2.60 GPG, while 18th in goals allowed by conceding 2.83. Brian Elliot is 7-10 with a poor 3.14 GAA on the road thus far.

The Lightning average 2.73 GPG and concede 2.78. Ben Bishop is 9-5 with a 2.65 GAA at home. 

I’ll point out that Calgary is just 4-10 in its last 14 after scoring five goals or more in its previous contest, while Tampa is 47-20 in its last 67 home games against teams with losing road records.

Tampa is also fighting for playoff positioning and is 4-1 in its last five at home in this series. All things considred, I think we’re getting a very fair price in this one, play on the Lightning.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Anaheim Ducks (10:35 EST).

The 30-23-4-2 Boston Bruins are in Anaheim to take on the 31-20-8-2 Ducks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I feel the Bruins are primed for a classic letdown here after winning four straight, most recently a 2-1 OT victory over San Jose.

Conversely, I look for the home side to risk life and limb today as it looks to bounce back off an ugly 3-2 road loss to the lowly Coyotes last time out.

Boston has looked a lot better under interim coach Brad Cassidy, but I simply expect it to finally run out of gas here. Tuukka Rask has been a strong point once again for the team this season, he’s 28-17 with a 2.24 GAA on the year.

Note though that Rask has had difficulties with the Ducks throughout his career, going just 1-5 with a poor 3.48 GAA. 

And despite the recent up-tick in play, the Bruins are still ranked 18th in scoring at 2.66 GPG, while ranked 11th on the defensive end in conceding 2.61.

The Ducks average 2.59 GPG and concede 2.50. John Gibson is expected to get the call in net tonight and he’s 23-23 with a 2.24 GAA on the year and 15-9 with a 2.06 GAA in front of the home town crowd.

I’ll point out that Boston has already struggled in this spot big time for bettors this season though, going just 13-16 (-6.9 units) in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent and just 1-4 (-3.2 units) after a three-game unbeaten streak. 

When taking into account all of the factors listed above, I think the home side offers great value in this spot, play on the Ducks.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Minnesota Wild (8:00 EST).

The 36-18-5 Chicago Blackhawks are in Minnesota to take on the 39-13-6 Wild and for a number of different reasons, i think this one favors the home side.

The Hawks came out of their “bye” week and lost 3-1 at home to the Oilers. Chicago bounced back though with a big 5-1 win at Buffalo on Sunday, led by Patrick Kane with a goal and an assist. It was Scott Darling that got the call in net against the Sabres, but it’s Corey Crawford expected between the pipes tonight. 

And he’ll square off against Devan Dubnyk, who has won five of his last six. The Wild are fourth overall in scoring at 3.3 GPG, while Dubnyk is in line for the Vezina. 

I’ll point out that Chicago is just 1-4 in its last five road games against a team with a home winning percentage of greater than .600, while Minnesota is a perfect 4-0 in its last four when playing on two days rest.

Minnesota starts its bye week on Wednesday, so I’m expecting it to leave everything on the ice tonight as it goes for broke before the extended layoff. Play on the Wild.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NON-CONFERENCE SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the St. Louis Blues (8:05 EST).

The 27-20-5-5 Florida Panthers are in St. Louis to take on the 31-23-4-1 Blues and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Florida has been on quite the run of late, but I think finally suffers a letdown here. The Panthers have won seven of eight and four straight after beating the Kings 3-2 on the road last time out. 

The Blues are looking to get back on track after they had their six game win streak snapped in a 3-2 road loss to Buffalo on Saturday. 

And if recent history is any precedence, then St. Louis has to be loving it chances for an immediate return to the winners circle as when these tems met on February 12th, the Blues came away with the convincing 5-3 road victory. 

Note that despite the recent “up tick” in play of late, the Panthers still rank just 22nd in the league in scoring with an average of 2.5 GPG, while ranked 15th in goals allowed with 2.7 per contest.

St. Louis averages 2.8 GPG and concedes 2.9. Note that the Blues though are fourth in the NHL on the penalty kill with an 84.6 percent success rate. 

I’ll point out as well the Florida has struggled in this spot all year, going 4-9 in their last 13 after allowing two goals or less in its previous game, while St. Louis has excelled in this spot, going 4-0 in its last four after scoring two goals or less in its previous outing. 

I think the home side offers great value in this spot, play on St. Louis.

Good luck…Larry

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

The 28-24-1-3 LA Kings are in Anaheim to take on the 30-18-8-2 Ducks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I had a play on the Kings just last night and they’d blow a golden opportunity in a 3-2 loss to the Panthers who were playing the second game of a back-to-back. 

Normally I don’t flip flop on teams from one night to the next, but in this case, tonight’s contest will be looked at entirely on its own and in my opinion, all signs do definitely point to the Ducks as the correct call.

Anaheim will be desperate to get back into the winners circle after dropping five of its last seven, most recently a 4-1 setback to Florida on Friday (despite outshooting the Panthers 36-31 in that one). 

LA has done decently on the second game of a back-to-back over the years, but note that it’s just 40-50 (-28.4 units) in its last 90 following a non-conference contest, while Anaheim is already 11-2 (+9.4 units) this year after allowing four goals or more and 10-2 (+8.4 units) after a loss by two goals or more in its previous outing.

All in all, I think we’re getting a really good price on the home side in this spot. Play on Anaheim.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the LA Kings (10:00 EST).

The 25-20-5-5 Florida Panthers are in LA to take on the 28-24-1-3 Kings and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side. 

No need to overthink this one, the Panthers come in off a hugely satisfying 4-1 win in Anaheim just last night and I think they’re primed for a predictable letdown here. 

The Panthers have been playing great of late, winning six of their last seven. Roberto Luongo is expected in net and he’s just 15-14-6 with a 2.71 GAA on the year. 

Note that Florida averages just 2.49 GPG and concedes 2.78. The Panthers have been especially poor on the power play though with just a 14.9 percent success rate.

The Kings will be especially motivated here after a humbling 5-3 loss at home to the Coyotes on Thursday. Peter Budaj took the loss, but he still sits at an impressive 26-17-3 with a 2.15 GAA on the year. 

LA averages 2.50 GPG and concedes 2.46. 

I’ll point out that Florida is just 1-4 in its last five in the second game of the back-to-back scenario, while LA has won seven straight in this series on home ice.

I expect that strong trend to continue here, lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Columbus Blue Jackets (7:05 EST).

The 35-13-5-2 Pittsburgh Penguins are in Columbus to take on the 36-15-4-1 Blue Jackets and because of two situational factors and one very strong ATS trend, I think this one favors the home side.

Pittsburgh played and won 4-3 in OT over Winnipeg just last night. Now the team has to board a plane and play against the revenge minded Blue Jackets, who are 20-8-1 at home this year (compared to Pittsburgh’s rather pedestrian 12-10-3 road record).

This does indeed set up as a “revenge” game for Columubs after it fell 4-3 in OT in Pittsburgh on February 3rd (Columbus is 16-8, +7.6 units this year in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent).

It’s a great situational play and there’s no doubt that the price is right as well. Play on the Blue Jackets.

Good luck…Larry

This is a 10* PERFECT STORM on the New Jersey Devils (7:05 EST).

The 29-19-5-1 Ottawa Senators are in New Jersey to take on the 24-22-8-2 Devils and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Ottawa enters off a 3-2 home loss to Buffalo, while New Jersey comes in off a 3-2 home win over Colorado. 

If recent history is any precedence, then clearly the Devils have to be liking their chances today as they’ve taken four of the last five in the series. 

Senators’ goaltender Craig Anderson is 13-8 with a 2.37 GAA on the year. Ottawa ranks 19th in the league in scoring at 2.61 GPG, while ranked 13th in goals allowed in conceding 2.69 per contest.

The Devils are ranked just 29th in scoring at 2.29 GPG, while ranked 17th in goal allowed in conceding 2.80. Goaltender Cory Schneider looked good though in the victory over the Avs, he’s now 12-9 with a 2.41 GAA at home, while against Ottawa for his career he’s 6-2 with a 1.58 GAA. 

I’ll point out that Ottawa has really struggled in this spot for bettors all year, going a horrible 1-5 (-4.7 units) after playing three consecutive home games, while New Jersey is 2-1 (+1 units) in its last three in trying to revenge a loss against an opponent.

I think the hungry home side is not getting nearly enough respect, play on New Jersey.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Calgary Flames (9:35 EST).

The 27-22-3-4 Philadelphia Flyers are in Calgary to take on the 28-26-1-2 Flames and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Philadelphia broke a three-game losing streak with a 2-1 OT victory at home over the Sharks, while the Flames will be looking to atone for a 5-0 home loss to the lowly Coyotes last time out.

Calgary has to be liking it chances today for a bounce back performance, as the home team has won the last four games in this series.

The Flyers come to town scuffling, they’ve lost four of their last six. Goaltender Michal Neuvirth is 9-6 with a 2.67 GAA on the year, including 3-2 with a 3.69 GAA on the road. 

Philadelphia averages 2.54 GPG and concedes 2.93.

Calgary averages 2.56 GPG and concedes 2.84. Chad Johnson will get the call in net tonight, he’s 9-8 with a 2.92 GAA at home thus far. 

I’ll point out though that the Flyers are already 0-3 (-3.8 units) this season when playing with three or more days rest, while Calgary is 11-5 (+7 units) this year after scoring one goal or less in its previous contest. 

I think the home side is going to be risking life and limb to score a victory today after getting embarrassed last time out. All things considered, I think this is a great price, play on Calgary.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the Ottawa Senators (7:30 EST).

The 23-23-5-5 Buffalo Sabres are in Ottawa to take on the 29-18-5-1 Senators and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Sabres come in with zero momentum after losing 4-2 at home to the Canucks, while the Sens enter off a confidence building 3-0 win over a previously red hot Islanders team. 

Note though that this does set up as a “revenge” scenario for the home side as Buffalo has somehow managed to win four of the last five in the series.

Robin Lehner took the loss against Vancouver and he’s now 14-22 with a 2.57 GAA on the year and 8-10 with a 2.75 GAA on the road. 

Note that the Sabres average 2.45 GPG and concede 2.75.

Ottawa averages 2.62 GPG and concedes 2.68. 

Craig Anderson stopped all 33 shots he faced in the win over the Isles and is now 13-7 with a 2.34 GAA on the year, including going 8-5 with a 2.43 GAA at home. 

I think Anderson is the difference here and look for the Sens to do just enough to secure the victory. Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the under Coyotes/Flames (9:05 EST).

The 18-28-7 Arizona Coyotes are in Calgary to take on the 28-25-3 Flames and for a number of different reasons, I think this one has goaltenders battle written all over it. 

Arizona is terrible and it’s struggled the most against its own division, dropping 11 of its last 13 against the Pacific. Note that the Coyotes have just 12 road wins in their last 54 tries.

And clearly that doesn’t bode well for the offensively challenged visitors in facing a red hot Flames team which has won four of its last five.

This is a game that playoff hopeful Calgary can ill afford to lose. The Flames have looked a lot better on both ends of the ice over the last month and note that they’ve seen the total go under the number in ten of 17 against their division and in five of eight after playing three consecutive road games, while the Coyotes have seen the total dip below the posted number in 13 of 17 against the division and in both games that it’s played in this year after playing to three or more consecutive “overs.” 

I have a hard time seeing the visitors mustering much offense tonight. This number is a little out of whack, play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on the New Jersey Devils (12:35 EST).

The 33-18-3-1 San Jose Sharks are in New Jersey to take on the 23-21-8-2 Devils and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

San Jose comes in off a 2-1 loss in Philadelphia in OT just yesterday, while the Devils have had four whole nights off after besting the Sabres 2-1 at home.

The Sharks are in a tail-spin, having lost four in a row now. Martin Jones is expected in net tonight and he’s 27-19 with a 2.30 GAA on the year. 

San Jose averages 2.71 GPG and allows 2.38.

New Jersey averages 2.30 GPG and concedes 2.80. 

The numbers favor the Sharks on paper, but the “situation” favors the well rested home side in my opinion. New Jersey is playing much better of late, as it would hammer Columbus 5-1 on the road previous to its win over the Sabres. Cory Schneider hasn’t been his usual dominant self this year, but he’s been at his best in front of the home town crowd, going 11-8 with a 2.40 GAA in New Jersey thus far.

Back-to-back early starts turns out to be just too much for the Sharks to overcome this afternoon and the focused home side finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on New Jersey.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Montreal Canadiens (7:00 EST).

The 28-22-4-1 St. Louis Blues are in Montreal to take on the 31-17-6-2 Canadiens and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think the Blues have a letdown here after three straight wins. Mike Yeo took over the head coaching duties on Feb. 1st and the team has gone 4-1 under him. 

Goaltender Jake Allen though is having an overall “down” year, sitting at 20-14-3 with a 2.69 GAA. Note that he’s had difficulty against the Habs throughout his career as well, going just 1-3-0 with a 3.45 GAA lifetime. 

The Blues average 2.84 GPG and conceded 2.95.

The Canadiens average 2.89 GPG and concede 2.50. Montreal finally got off the shneid and broke a four-game slide with a 5-4 OT win over the Coyotes. 

Habs’ goaltender Carey Price is also having an “up-and-down” season, he’s 24-13-5 with a 2.42 GAA this year and lifetime against the Blues sees him 4-3-2 with a 2.39 GAA. 

I’ll point out that St. Louis is already just 1-3 (-3.2 units) this season following a three-game unbeaten streak, while Montreal is 11-5 (+6.2 units) after allowing four goals or more.

Clearly the Canadiens can’t be happy with a single OT win over the league’s worst team. I’m expecting the home side to come out fired up and for Price to outduel his counterpart. This line should be significantly higher in my opinion, play on Montreal.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WESTERN CONFERENCE TOTAL OF THE MONTH is the under Hawks/Jets (8:00 EST).

Chicago comes in off a 4-3 OT win against Minnesota. It was the Hawks third straight win and suffice it to say, I think they suffer a bit of a letdown tonight.

Corey Crawford stopped 35 of 38 shots and is now 21-12-3 with a 2.59 GAA and .917 save percentage. 

After three straight victories, the Jets come into this one desperate after back-to-back losses. Most recently Winnipeg fell 4-2 at home to Minnesota on Tuesday. With an injury to Ondrej Pavelec in the setback, Connor Hellebuyck becomes the No. 1 goaltender now.

I’ll point out that Chicago has in fact seen the total go under the number in four of five this season after playing to three or more consecutive “overs” and in six of its last nine road games when the total in the contest is set at 5.5.

And note that Winnipeg has seen the total dip below the posted number in three of its last four home games when the total is set at 5.5 and in two of its last three after allowing four goals or more.

The Jets are 4-0 against the Hawks this season and Hellybuyck has started all four and posted a 1.25 GAA and .961 save percentage.

Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Montreal Canadiens (9:00 EST).

The 30-17-8 Montreal Canadiens are in Arizona to take on the 17-28-6 Coyotes and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Habs have lost four straight and will clearly be looking to take advantage of this favorable matchup and lay a beating to the league’s “doormat.” 

Arizona comes in contented anyways after it broke a two-game slide with a shootout win over the Sharks on Saturday. 

It will be all hands on deck for Montreal tonight: “Every team goes through tough stretches,” goalie Carey Price explained last night. “I think it’s important we continue to have fun and not dwell on things when they’re not going well. That’s always seemed to be the recipe to get out of a funk, and that’s what we’re going to use.”

The Coyotes haven’t played since Saturday and I think will come out a bit flat footed here. I’ll also point out that Montreal is in fact 17-8 in its last 25 against clubs with losing records, while Arizona is only 1-5 in its last six on at least three days of rest. 

Price has dominated the Coyotes throughout his career, going 8-0 with a 1.49 GAA. I’m laying the price on Price with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Minnesota Wild (8:00 EST).

The 34-13-5 Minnesota Wild are in Winnipeg to take on the 25-26-4 Jets and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The WIld had their three-game win streak snapped by a desperate Colorado team this past Saturday.

The Jets look like a perfect opponent to get back on track against in my opinion, as Winnipeg is poised for a letdown after winning four of its last five, most recently against Vancouver.

Minnesota leads the Western Conference by four points over Chicago and San Jose. 

Note that the Wild have killed it in this spot for bettors all year, going 8-1 (+6.4 units) after playing three consecutive road games and 13-6 (+6.2 units) after a victory by two goals or more.

Also note that the Jets have been brutal in this spot all season, going just 8-11 (-1.3 units) against teams with a winning record and just 7-9 (-2.1 units) after a loss by two goals or more in their previous contest. 

I’m banking on the Wild to do just enough to ground the Jets tonight. Play on Minnesota.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the New Jersey Devils (7:00 EST).

The 21-20-5-5 Buffalo Sabres are in New Jersey to take on the 22-21-8-2 Devils and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Buffalo looks primed for a letdown here after its satisfying 4-0 home win over the Senators.

New Jersey looks to build momentum today after its 5-1 road win over Columbus. A date against the inconsistent Sabres is just what the doctor ordered to keep the ball rolling as Buffalo is in fact just 1-5 in its last six trips to New Jersey.

Sabres’ goaltender Robin Lehner is 7-9 with a 2.89 GAA on the road. He’s also just 1-5 with a 2.79 GAA lifetime against the Devils.

Note that Buffalo averages 2.43 GPG and concedes 2.71. 

New Jersey averages 2.30 GPG and concedes 2.83. Cory Schneider is 10-8 with a 2.49 GAA at home and is 6-5 with a 1.61 GAA lifetime against Buffalo.

I’ll point out that Buffalo is just 50-103 in its last 153 games when playing on one days rest, while New Jersey is 5-1 in its last six home games in this series.

I like New Jersey to break its losing streak today and all things considered, do definitely feel we’re getting a great price on the motivated home side. 

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on the Minnesota Wild (10:00 EST).

The 33-12-3-2 Minnesota Wild are in Vancouver to take on the 23-22-4-2 Canucks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Minnesota will be in a foul mood after a painful 5-1 loss in Calgary. The Canucks are floundering though as they come in having lost three of their last four.

The Wild don’t need to hang their heads obviously, it was just their first regulation loss since Nov. 29th. Goaltender Devan Dubnyk is now 27-9-3 with a 1.96 GAA on the year. 

Minnesota averages 3.28 GPG and concedes just 2.28.

Vancouver averages just 2.27 GPG, while conceding 2.78. After a 3-0 loss to the Coyotes, the Canucks would then fall 4-1 to the Sharks. Goaltender Ryan Miller is 14-13-3 with a 2.53 GAA on the year.

I’ll point out that Minnesota is 9-0 its last nine after scoring two goals or less, while Vancouver is 0-4 in its last four againts teams with a winning percentage above .600.

The Wild play with revenge here as well after losing in Vancouver earlier in the year. All things considered, I think we’re getting a very fair price in this one, play on Minnesota.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* O/U PERFECT STORM is the under Jackets/Penguins (7:05 EST).

The 33-12-3-1 Columbus Blue Jackets are in Pittsburgh to take on the 31-13-4-1 Penguins and for a number of different reasons, I think this one will be more of a defensive battle than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe by posting 6 as the Over/Under.

The Blue Jackets won the first meeting between the clubs, hammering the Penguins 7-1. Pittsburgh will clearly be out to atone for that “brain fart” and has to be feeling pretty confident as it’s won ten of the last 14 in this series in front of the home town crowd.

Columbus comes in off a 6-4 win over the Rangers. The Blue Jackets though had a 6-0 lead, before then managing to hold on down the stretch. Sergei Bobrovsky is expected in net tonight and he’s 28-11 with a 2.29 GAA on the year, including going 11-7 with a 2.45 GAA on the road. Note that he’s 10-6 with a 2.61 GAA lifetime against the Pens.

Columbus averages 3.35 GPG and concedes just 2.39.

Pittsburgh averages 3.55 GPG and concedes 2.90. 

The Pens came out of the break with a solid 4-2 win at home over Nashville. Matt Murray got the win in that one and he’s now 18-7 on the year with a 2.41 GAA, including going 10-2 with a 2.35 GAA at home. 

I think it’s important to note that Columbus has already seen the total go under the number in four of five this year after playing three consecutive road games, while Pittsburgh has seen the total dip below the posted number in two of its last three home games when the total is set at 6 or more.

These are two of the best offensive clubs in the league, but they’re also both pretty good on the defensive end. After the wide-open blowout in the first matchup though, I’m expecting a much tighter affair this evening. These are two of the best goaltenders in the game right now and I think the spotlight shines on them. Play the under.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on the Philadelphia Flyers (7:05 EST).

The 30-14-6-1 Montreal Canadiens are in Philadelphia to take on the 25-20-2-4 Flyers on Thursday and in my opinion, the home side should be a much larger fav in this spot.

Montreal comes in off a 5-2 home win over the Sabres in its first action out of the All Star break, while Philadelphia comes back home in a foul mood after laying an egg in Carolina, losing 5-1. 

A game at home against the Habs is just what the doctor ordered to get untracked though, as note that the Flyers have won 13 of the last 16 in this series in Philadelphia.

Carey Price got the win at home for Montreal, but note that he’s an unremarkable 6-7 with a 2.66 GAA on the road this year. Montreal averages 3.02 GPG and concedes 2.47.

Steve Mason looked horrible in the loss to the Hurricanes, but he’s been decent at home this season, going 10-8 with a 2.78 GAA. Note that he’s 4-1 with a 1.79 GAA lifetime against the Canadiens. 

The Flyers average 2.67 GPG and concede 3.06.

I’ll point out though that Montreal has struggled mightily in this spot for bettors already this year, going just 7-9 (-4 units) after a win by two goals or more, while Philadelphia is 7-5 (+1.3 units) this season after scoring one goal or less in its previous contest. 

Price has struggled on the road this year and I think he’ll once again have his hands full with this determined home side. All things considered, I do indeed feel we’re getting a great price on the Flyers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on the Minnesota Wild (10:05 EST).

The 32-11-3-2 Minnesota Wild are in Calgary to take on the 25-24-1-2 Flames and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Minnesota opened the second half by smashing the Oilers 5-2 last night and suffice it to say, I’m expecting the red hot Wild to continue the surge against the inconsistent Flames.

The last time Calgary played, it was a 3-2 OT win in Ottawa.

The Wild are expected to start backup Darcy Kuemper, who is 5-5 with a 3.28 GAA on the year. 

Note that Minnesota is ranked fourth in the league in scoring at 3.29 GPG, while ranked second in goals allowed in conceding just 2.23.

Calgary has been all over the map as far as its game to game consistency is concerned. So far it’s just 13-13 at home. The Flames turn to Chad Johnson, who is 16-13 with a 2.50 GAA overall and 9-7 with a 2.79 GAA at home. 

Calgary is ranked 21st in the league in scoring at 2.54 GPG, while ranked 18th on the defensive end in conceding 2.83. 

Clearly I’d rather have Devan Dubnyk in net for the Wild, but note that Minnesota is 2-1 in its last three in the back-to-back scenario, while Calgary is just 2-4 (-2.2 units) this season after playing three consecutive road games.

I’m banking on the Wild’s superior offense to prove to be the difference maker. Play on Minnesota.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on the Dallas Stars (8:30 EST).

The 20-18-9 Buffalo Sabres are in Dallas to take on the 19-20-10 Stars and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Buffalo is poised for a big letdown tonight after winning three straight.

Conversely, it’s going to be all hands on deck for Dallas as it looks to snap a three-game slide.

Buffalo most recently scored two late third period goals and then won 5-4 in OT in Nashville most recently. Goaltender Robin Lehner is now 4-1-0 in January.

The Stars come in off a tough 3-2 shootout loss to Minnesota on Tuesday. Keep your eyes on Tyler Seguin, who has 29 assists and 46 points this year. 

I’ll point out that Buffalo is already a horrible 3-8 (-5 units) this season after scoring four goals or more in its previous contest, while Dallas is a perfect 4-0 (+4.8 units) after three or more consecutive losses.

I’m banking on the “hungry” home side to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Lay the price.

Good luck…Larry