04-21-14 |
Anaheim Ducks v. Dallas Stars UNDER 5.5 |
|
0-3 |
Win
|
100 |
13 h 50 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Dallas and Anaheim to finish UNDER the total. After Game 1 finished above the total, Game 2 stayed below the number. That brought the UNDER to 6-1 their last seven games. The Stars scored three or less in all seven of those games and know they need to rely on their defense and goaltending to have a chance to get back in the series.
The Ducks have seen the UNDER go 32-21 the past couple of seasons, when playing a road game with an O/U line of 5.5. During that time, the UNDER is also 10-4-2 when the Stars had lost their previous three (or more) games. I expect those stats to improve here. 8*
|
04-21-14 |
St. Louis Blues v. Chicago Blackhawks -156 |
|
0-2 |
Win
|
100 |
12 h 55 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on CHICAGO. After a pair of heart-breaking OT losses in St. Louis, the Hawks are in a hole. Coming back against this talented St. Louis team will not be easy. I don’t expect the defending champs to go down without a fight though. While the Seabrook suspension admittedly hurts, the Hawks remain one of the most talented teams in the league. Coach Quenneville - a longtime former St. Louis coach - is a proven winner. They could easily be up 2-0 in this series. Needless to say, this is a must win situation for them. While the Blues have been solid on the road, the Hawks have been dominant (27-7-7) at home all season. They were also 11-2 in the playoffs last year, outscoring the opposition by a combined score of 41-23. I’m not counting them out quite yet. 9* personal favorite
|
04-21-14 |
Pittsburgh Penguins v. Columbus Blue Jackets UNDER 5.5 |
|
4-3 |
Loss |
-120 |
10 h 16 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Pittsburgh and Columbus to finish UNDER the total. A change of venue can bring a change in tempo in the NBA playoffs. The same can often be true of the NHL playoffs. After back-to-back fairly high-scoring games at Pittsburgh, I expect a lower-scoring affair for Game 3 at Columbus.
The Pens don’t score as many goals on the road. That’s helped lead to the UNDER going a profitable 17-9 when they played a road game with a total of 5.5. That includes a 2-1 game here a few weeks ago. A similar result won’t surprise. 8*
|
04-21-14 |
Colorado Avalanche v. Minnesota Wild UNDER 5 |
|
0-1 |
Win
|
106 |
10 h 15 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Colorado and Minnesota to finish UNDER the total. A change of venue can bring a change in tempo in the NBA playoffs. The same can often be true of the NHL playoffs. After back-to-back fairly high-scoring games at Colorado, I expect a lower-scoring affair for Game 3 at Minnesota.
The Avs don’t score as many goals at home. Meanwhile, Minnesota is much stingier at home. The Wild allow an average of 2.2 goals here, games averaging 4.9 goals.
Off three straight losses, their backs to the wall, I expect the Wild to play a defensive style. The UNDER is 15-8-5 the past couple of seasons, when they were off three straight losses. While there’s always a strong chance of a “push” when playing a total at five, I feel this one has a better chance of finishing with less than five than it does of finishing with more. 8*
|
04-20-14 |
Los Angeles Kings v. San Jose Sharks UNDER 5 |
Top |
2-7 |
Loss |
-105 |
35 h 12 m |
Show
|
10* Under. Analysis before 9am PST Sunday.
|
04-20-14 |
DETROIT GM2 v. BOSTON GM2 -221 |
|
1-4 |
Win
|
100 |
29 h 33 m |
Show
|
6* Bruins. Analysis before 9am PST Sunday.
|
04-19-14 |
Columbus Blue Jackets v. Pittsburgh Penguins UNDER 5.5 |
|
4-3 |
Loss |
-124 |
13 h 34 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Pittsburgh and Columbus to finish UNDER the total. Just because the first game of a series is high-scoring doesn’t mean that the second one will be. We saw evidence of that yesterday as both Game 2’s (Montreal/TB and Dal/Ana) were lower-scoring than the opening game had been.
It should be noted that both those games finished with exactly five goals. Here, we’re getting a 5.5 to work with. There likely won’t be that many of them remaining in the playoffs - a look at the rest of the board shows most O/U lines at five - and there is a significant difference between five and 5.5.
The Jackets, who have seen the UNDER go 10-5 when playing with two day’s rest, have still seen the UNDER go 17-11 when playing a road game with an O/U line of 5.5.
Prior to Game 1, three of the previous four meetings between these teams had finished with exactly three goals, including a 2-1 win for the Pens here on 12/9. Don’t be surprised when this one also proves lower-scoring than most will be expecting. 10* blue chip
|
04-18-14 |
Dallas Stars v. Anaheim Ducks UNDER 5.5 |
|
2-3 |
Win
|
100 |
26 h 0 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Dallas and Anaheim to finish UNDER the total. While Game 1 was high-scoring, that doesn’t mean that we need to expect a similar result in Game 2.
Prior to Game 1, the Stars had seen five straight games fall below the total. Even including Wednesday’s game, seven of their last nine games have finished with five or fewer combined goals.
Anaheim coach Bruce Boudreau said this of Game 1. ''We didn't play that good. We gave the puck away too many times tonight, but we'll go back to the drawing board.’’
I expect an emphasis on improved defensive play from Anaheim, particularly with a couple of key offensive players. Getzlaf reportedly plans to play but could potentially be a little tentative after taking a slap shot to the head last game. Meanwhile Matt Beleskey, another important forward, is questionable.
Prior to Game 1, the only previous 2014 meeting between these teams finished with a score of 2-0. Even including the Game 1 result, six of the past 10 meetings have fallen below the total. I won’t be surprised when this one also proves lower-scoring than most will be expecting. 10* best bet
|
04-17-14 |
LOS ANGELES GM1 v. SAN JOSE GM1 -139 |
|
3-6 |
Win
|
100 |
70 h 33 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on SAN JOSE. While home ice isn’t always a big deal in the NHL playoffs, I expect it to provide the Sharks with an advantage here. You may recall that these teams met in the Western Semi Finals of last year’s playoffs, the Kings advancing. This should be another good series. The Sharks have the higher seed for good reason though.
A quick glance at the records finds the Sharks with a 29-12 (29-7-5) record at home and finds the Kings with a 23-18 (23-14-4) mark on the road. While LA’s road record is certainly respectable, the Sharks’ home record is outstanding.
These teams last met here a couple of weeks ago. The Sharks won 2-1. Including that victory, the Sharks are 10-1 the last 11 times that they were a host in this series. They held the Kings to three goals or less in all 11 of those games and two or less in each of the last seven, a total of just nine in those seven games.
Ultimately, I believe the Sharks bring a little more to the table and I look for them to step up and grab the opener. 9* personal favorite
|
04-17-14 |
CHICAGO GM1 v. ST. LOUIS GM1 UNDER 5.5 |
|
3-4 |
Loss |
-130 |
11 h 24 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Chicago and St. Louis to finish UNDER the total. Last night’s three playoff games were all high-scoring. Don’t expect that to be a daily occurrence though. Playoff hockey games are often tight and low-scoring and that’s what I’m expecting to see in this evening’s opener.
The Blues haven’t scored a single goal in either of their last two games, losing by identical 3-0 scores. They’ve now scored two or fewer goals in nine straight games, totalling just 10 total goals during that time.
The Hawks have seen the UNDER go 6-3-2 in the first round of the playoffs the past couple of seasons. Meanwhile, the UNDER is 7-3-1 when the Blues played in the first round of the playoffs the past couple of seasons.
The UNDER is also 7-2-4 the last 13 times that the Blues played with three or more day’s rest in between games.
While we do have to pay a little extra to play at 5.5, if this one proves low-scoring, as I expect it to, this very well could be the last 5.5 we see in the series. I believe the extra price is worth it and look for the teams to start things off by combining for five or fewer goals. 10* blue chip
|
04-16-14 |
Columbus Blue Jackets v. Pittsburgh Penguins -175 |
|
3-4 |
Win
|
100 |
9 h 9 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on PITTSBURGH. While I normally wouldn’t jump on the biggest favorite on the board on opening night, I believe this price could easily be higher.
The Pens have been getting healthier. They’re loaded with talent - much more so than Columbus. Unlike the Blue Jackets, they’ve also got plenty of playoff experience. They’ve been upset before and they know how critical it is to take care of business here in Game 1.
The Jackets get outscored by a 2.7 to 2.5 mark on the road. The Pens outscore teams by a 3.3 to 2.3 margin here at Pittsburgh.
The Pens have dominated Columbus and I see this as the biggest mismatch, at least on opening night. 7* Annihilator
|
04-13-14 |
Dallas Stars v. Phoenix Coyotes -115 |
Top |
1-2 |
Win
|
100 |
20 h 34 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on PHOENIX. I could point to the fact that the Coyotes have a better home record than the Stars do on the road. However, I feel this one will come down to “shoe wants it more.”
With the Stars about to enter the playoffs and the Coyotes about to go golfing, it might be easy to assume that the Stars would be the more motivated team this evening. I don’t believe that will be the case though.
The Stars have already clinched a playoff spot. Its very possible that they'll rest some key players here. (Off three straight home games, note that the Stars are only 3-7 (-4.2) after playing their previous three at Dallas. )
Dallas coach Lindy Ruff noted: "We've had several guys taking days off for maintenance, we'll evaluate who is the worst of all those guys and give them some time off … “
On the other hand, even though they won’t make the playoffs, the Coyotes badly want to snap their losing streak, rewarding the home faithful with a last victory.
Phoenix’s Shane Doan noted: "We want to beat everybody and just end this stupid streak.”
While Dallas may have gotten the better of Phoenix on the hardwood last night, I expect the opposite to be true on the ice tonight, Doan and co. rising to the occasion with their best effort and a much needed “W.” 10* Motivational Mismatch
|
04-13-14 |
Detroit Red Wings v. St. Louis Blues -170 |
|
3-0 |
Loss |
-170 |
2 h 2 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on ST. LOUIS. I believe that this is a very big game for the Blues. For starters, on an extended losing streak, they badly need a victory to stop the bleeding. Additionally, they’re tied with the Avalanche (who hold the tiebreaker advantage should the teams finish tied) in the standings. Finishing ahead of the Avs would mean that they’d get to face Minnesota or Dallas in the first round. The alternative? Facing the Hawks in the first round. Considering that Chicago is the defending champ - well-coached and loaded with talent - that’s significant. On the other hand, the Wings are already locked into the 8th seed in the East and already know that they’ll face Boston in the first round. While the Wings are 22-23 (-5.2) against non-conference opponents the past couple of seasons, the Blues are a dominating 37-12 (+20) against non-conference opponents, during the same stretch. I expect their best effort here en route to a much-needed “W.” 6* Annihilator
|
04-12-14 |
Philadelphia Flyers v. Pittsburgh Penguins -136 |
|
4-3 |
Loss |
-136 |
8 h 46 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on PITTSBURGH. While the Penguins are already locked into the #2 seed, I believe they’re going to want this game pretty badly. That’s because the Flyers, an instate rival and the team which knocked them out of the playoffs in 2012, have beaten them three straight times this season. Note that the Flyers are already in the playoffs and can no longer get home ice in the first round (thanks to the Rangers’ win on Thursday and the Flyers’ loss) so they don’t have all that much to play for. The last thing the Pens want is to enter the playoffs with the Flyers “inside their heads.” Even factoring in the losses in this series, the Pens are still a dominating 20-9 (+4.9) vs. teams from their own division. They’re also 20-9 (+7.6) when playing with two day’s rest in between games. With a 14-5 record their last 19 in the revenge role, I believe its time for some payback. 9* personal favorite
|
04-11-14 |
Winnipeg Jets v. Calgary Flames -137 |
|
5-3 |
Loss |
-137 |
11 h 53 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on CALGARY. This one sets up nicely for the home team. While the Flames had yesterday off, the Jets are off a win against Boston last night. That’s noteworthy as they’re a dismal 3-19 (-14.4) the last 22 times that they played the second of back-to-back games.
I believe that the Jets left it all on the ice last night, in winning their home finale. They went all out to win one for the home fans but may have more trouble getting up for a road game against a non-playoff team. It should be noted that the Jets are expected to be without two of their top players here, as Andrew Ladd (their captain) and defenseman Dustin Byfuglien will both be out.
The Flames are playing their best hockey of the season right now, having won four straight. Coach Bob Hartley noted: "We're very optimistic. I’m unbelievably proud of my group …” This is their home finale and I expect them to be motivated to reward the faithful with one final victory.
While the Jets beat them here in January, the Flames have still beaten the Jets/Thrashers six of seven meetings here this millennium. I look for them to resume that dominance this evening. 9* personal favorite
|
04-11-14 |
St. Louis Blues v. Dallas Stars UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
0-3 |
Win
|
100 |
22 h 8 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on St. Louis and Dallas to finish UNDER the total. When these teams met less than two weeks ago, the O/U line was five. The Stars have played six games since then and five of them have finished below the total. Yet, we’re now getting an extra half goal (5.5 instead of 5) to work with. While we do have to lay a little extra juice for that half goal, I believe it will prove worth it.
The Blues have been having trouble scoring recently. They managed only two goals yesterday and have now scored two or fewer goals in seven straight games. While they’d surely like to fix that problem, I believe they’ll be even more motivated to improve defensively. After all, this is a team which has long taken pride in shutting down the opposition. Meanwhile, Ken Hitchcock is considered one of the best defensive coaches in the league.
While the Blues were already struggling offensively, they may be without one of their top offensive players here as T.J. Oshie went down hard last night. He’s currently "day-to-day," according to Hitchcock.
St. Louis has played lower-scoring games on the road this season; Blues’ road games were averaging 4.9 goals entering last night. Meanwhile, the Stars have seen their home games average (slightly) fewer goals than their road games.
While yesterday’s game had an O/U line of five, the Blues have seen the UNDER go 22-14 the past couple of seasons, when playing a road game with an O/U line of 5.5. During that stretch, the UNDER is also 15-6-1 when the Blues attempted to avenge an earlier home loss.
The Blues’ last visit here finished with a score of 3-2. In fact, six of their last seven visits here have produced five or fewer combined goals. I expect more of the same here. 10* blue chip
|
04-10-14 |
Phoenix Coyotes v. Nashville Predators UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
0-2 |
Win
|
100 |
13 h 58 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Phoenix and Nashville to finish UNDER the total. These teams have seen both of this season’s meetings top the total. However, I’m expecting a considerably lower-scoring affair this evening.
As noted, both previous meetings finished above the total. However, those games came back in October and November. Things have changed since then.
For starters, the Predators were without #1 goalie Pekka Rinne in both earlier meetings, as he was injured. He’s healthy now and given his history against the Coyotes (his five shutouts against Phoenix are his most against any opponent) he’s likely to be between the pipes.
Additionally, the Coyotes haven’t been scoring much in recent weeks, regardless of what goalie they’ve faced. In fact, they’ve now scored three or fewer goals in 10 straight games, averaging exactly 2.0 goals per game during that stretch.
Prior to Tuesday’s 4-3 loss, the Coyotes had seen each of their previous six games finish with five or fewer combined goals.
The Predators have seen each of their last two games finish below the number. Those games finished with scores of 3-0 and 3-2.
The Coyotes have seen the UNDER go 19-11 when playing a road game with an O/U line of 5.5. That brings the UNDER to 37-20 when they’ve been in that situation the past couple of seasons. During that stretch, the UNDER is also 21-13 when the Preds played a home game with an O/U line of 5.5. I expect those stats to improve this evening. 10* blue chip
|
04-09-14 |
Montreal Canadiens v. Chicago Blackhawks UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
2-3 |
Win
|
100 |
19 h 21 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Chicago and Montreal to finish UNDER the total. These teams have faced each other once this season. That 1/11 meeting finished with a final score of 2-1, in favor of the Canadiens, who were playing at home. I expect another relatively low-scoring affair this evening.
While the earlier meeting was at Montreal, the UNDER is also a profitable 6-1-2 the last nine times that the Habs visited Chicago. The lone one that finished “over” the total was the most recent meeting here, a 5-1 win for the Hawks. However, that could be considered a “bad beat.” The score was 3-1 with 1:15 left. The Hawks scored an empty net goal with 1:17 left in the third period to make it 4-1. The Canadiens then put their goalie back in but the Hawks scored on him with 12 seconds left. So, it could have easily stayed below the total, too.
It should be noted that both Toews and Kane both had points in that game - but that neither of those Chicago superstars will be available this evening.
True, the Canadiens are off back-to-back high-scoring games, most recently a 5-3 win vs. the Wings on 4/5. However, its also true that the UNDER is a highly profitable 31-12-5 the past couple of seasons, when the Wings were off a game in which they score four or more goals, 16-6-3 the last 25.
During that time, the UNDER is also 13-7-3 when the Habs were off a win by two more goals and 5-1-1 when they played with three or more day’s rest in between games.
As for the Hawks, they’ve seen the UNDER go 11-7 when playing with two day’s rest in between games and 17-11 when off a win by two or more goals. With the UNDER also a lucrative 13-7-1 the last 21 times that Chicago faced a team with a winning record, I look for this one to prove lower-scoring than many will be expecting. 10* blue chip
|
04-08-14 |
Washington Capitals v. St. Louis Blues -210 |
|
4-1 |
Loss |
-210 |
18 h 27 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on ST LOUIS. While the price on the Blues is admittedly a little steep, I believe they’re going to have a significant advantage.
The Blues are 28-11 (28-7-4) at home. They outscore teams by a 3.5 to 2.2 margin here. On the other hand, the Capitals are 15-24 (15-7-7) on the road, where they outscored by an average of 3.1 to 2.6.
The Caps are 24-39 (-13.3) the past couple of seasons, when playing a road game with an O/U line of 5.5. During that stretch, the Blues are 25-9 (+10.1) when playing a home game with an O/U line of 5.5.
Off back-to-back losses, battling for first place in their conference and having lost this season’s lone meeting with the Capitals, the Blues should be highly motivated.
Note that the Blues are 9-4 (+4.1) after a loss by two or more goals and 11-5 (+4.1) after giving up four or more goals. The last time they were off back-to-back losses, they blanked Pittsburgh in their next game, triggering a 3-game win streak.
Going back a little further and we find that the Blues are actually a perfect 6-0 on the season, after losing their previous two games. They won those six games by a combined score of 25-6, with scores of 6-1, 5-1, 5-1, 4-1, 4-2 and 1-0.
Even with the earlier loss at Washington, the Blues are still 37-11 (+22.4) their last 48 against Eastern Conference opponents, 23-7 this season. The Blues have dominated the Caps here over recent years, going 8-2 (+7) the last 10 meetings here. I believe the Caps have some serious issues right now and I look for the revenge-minded Bues to continue their dominance of them here. 6* blue marlin
|
04-07-14 |
Anaheim Ducks v. Vancouver Canucks UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
3-0 |
Win
|
100 |
13 h 47 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Vancouver and Anaheim to finish UNDER the total. While I lost with the Ducks U5.5 yesterday (thanks to an empty net goal with 14 seconds remaining) I’m willing to give the same play another shot here.
The Canucks have seen their games at Vancouver average only 4.9 goals on the season. Not surprisingly, the UNDER go 11-4 when they played a home game with an O/U line of 5.5. (Note that the O/U line was 5 not 5.5 when the Ducks visited here a little over a week ago.)
Off a 2-1 win over the Kings, Vancouver has now scored two or fewer goals in four straight games.
The Ducks have seen the UNDER go 15-10 the last 25 times that they played the second of back-to-back games, 7-5 on the season. They’ve also still seen the UNDER go 9-6-1 after allowing four or more goals in their previous game.
Anaheim defenseman Francois Beauchemin recently had this to say of his team: "We haven't been good defensively. That’s one aspect of our game that we have to get better at for the playoffs. Every single guy has to be better, mentally sharp and ready to play. We all know what we have to do.”
I’m expecting a relatively low-scoring affair. 10* best bet
|
04-06-14 |
Anaheim Ducks v. Edmonton Oilers UNDER 5.5 |
|
2-4 |
Loss |
-109 |
10 h 45 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Anaheim and Edmonton to finish UNDER the total. These teams recently faced each other at Anaheim. That 4/2 game stayed below the total, a 3-2 win for the Ducks. I believe this one has an excellent shot at also finishing with five or fewer combined goals.
The Oilers followed up their 3-2 loss at Anaheim with a 3-2 home win against Phoenix last time out. On the other hand, the Ducks followed that game up with a 5-2 loss vs. Nasvhille. After allowing five goals in that game, I expect an emphasis on improved defense here.
Anaheim defenseman Francois Beauchemin had this to say: "We haven't been good defensively. That’s one aspect of our game that we have to get better at for the playoffs. Every single guy has to be better, mentally sharp and ready to play. We all know what we have to do.”
Comments from the coach and other players had a similar idea.
Note that the UNDER is 9-5-1 after the Ducks had allowed four or more goals in their previous game. The UNDER is also profitable 22-12-2 the last 34 times that the Ducks played here. I look for those stats to improve tonight. 9* best bet
|
04-05-14 |
Los Angeles Kings v. Vancouver Canucks +1.5 |
|
1-2 |
Win
|
100 |
12 h 20 m |
Show
|
I’m playing VANCOUVER on the Puck-Line. (+1.5 goals.) I don’t often lay this high a price on a struggling team. However, in order to get an extra 1.5 goals to work with, I’m willing to do so here.
Off a 2-1 loss last time out, the Kings have now seen 10 of their last 13 games decided by a single goal.
Two of the last three meetings in the series have also been decided by a single goal.
Off three straight losses, the Canucks figure to be a desperate team. They’re still 5-5 their last 10, five of those games being decided by a single goal.
On the other hand, the Kings have little to play for.
While the Kings appear likely to be without star defenseman Drew Doughty, the Canucks are expected to get captain Henrik Sedin back from injury.
Playing their first game since 4/1, the Canucks are very well-rested here. Note that they’re 4-1 (+3.2) vs. the money-line, when playing with three or more day’s rest, one of their strongest situations. I believe they’ve got an excellent shot at winning “outright” but am laying ‘the extra juice, as am expecting a “close one.” 5* blue marlin
|
04-04-14 |
Nashville Predators v. Anaheim Ducks UNDER 5.5 |
|
5-2 |
Loss |
-117 |
13 h 3 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Anaheim and Nashville to finish UNDER the total. The Predators enter tonight’s game on an “over” streak. I expect that to come to an end here though.
The Ducks got back on track defensively last time out, holding Edmonton to two goals, en route to their third straight victory. They’ve allowed three or fewer goals in seven of their last nine, two or less in four of their last six.
Note that the UNDER is 17-11-3 the past couple of seasons, when Anaheim had won three or more consecutive games.
For the season, the Ducks allow just 2.2 goals per game here, while the Predators average only 2.5 gpg on the road.
Admittedly, the Preds have been scoring of late - and they tallied four goals against Washington last time out. They’ve had a few days in between games to “cool off” though and they’ve also seen the UNDER go 26-13-8 the past couple of seasons, after scoring four or more goals in their previous game, 12-7-3 in this year’s campaign.
During that stretch, the UNDER is also 7-4-2 when they’d seen their previous three games exceed the total. I look for those stats to improve as this one proves lower-scoring than many will be expecting. 9*
|
04-04-14 |
Edmonton Oilers v. Phoenix Coyotes UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
3-2 |
Win
|
100 |
12 h 25 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Edmonton and Phoenix to finish UNDER the total. Both these teams are off a fairly low-scoring game, each losing on the road. The Oilers fell 3-2 at Anaheim. The Coyotes were blanked 4-0 at LA.
The Coyotes have now managed a mere two goals in their last three games combined. Not surprisingly, each of those three contests fell below the number. In fact, each of their last five games has produced five or fewer combined goals.
As for the Oilers, they’ve now scored two or fewer goals in five of their last seven games.
While some teams bounce back from a poor offensive performance by scoring a lot of goals in their next game, the Coyotes typically aren’t one of them - they’ve seen the UNDER go 25-15-1 the past couple of seasons, after scoring one goal or less in their previous game.
Note that the UNDER is also a lucrative 10-2-3 the past 15 times that Phoenix faced a team with a losing record.
While they’ve had some previous offensive success against the Oilers, they Coyotes have only managed more than three goals twice in their last 25 games. Knowing that to be the case and knowing they need all the points they can get, I expect them to be very stingy tonight, leading to another low-scoring affair this evening. 10* Pacific Total OF THE YEAR!
|
04-03-14 |
Los Angeles Kings v. San Jose Sharks -152 |
Top |
1-2 |
Win
|
100 |
15 h 43 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on SAN JOSE. I won with the Kings last night. They were rested, playing at home, facing an opponent which had played the previous night and looking to avenge an earlier loss. Tonight, however, the shoe is on the other foot.
Tonight, its the Kings who are on the road. Tonight, its the Kings who are playing the second of back-to-back games. Tonight, its their opponent who is playing with “revenge.” Worse, that opponent is one of the best teams in the league and the venue that they’re playing at is among the toughest in hockey.
The Sharks are 27-11 (27-6-5) at home. One of those losses came when they faced the Kings here back in late January, which should give them some added motivation here. Note that they’re 5-1 (+2.8) the last six times that they attempted to avenge an earlier home loss.
While they still want to win, the Kings, 12-16 (-5.8) the last 28 times that they played the second of back-to-back games, really don’t have much to play for. They clinched a playoff spot last night and can’t really move up in the standings.
On the other hand, the Sharks are still trying to catch the Ducks. If they don’t, they’re likely going to face the Kings in the first round.
San Jose captain Joe Thornton noted: "We've got five left and you want to be playing well before the postseason. Our goal is to win all five and see where it goes.”
San Jose coach Todd McLellan added: "I think this week's important for us. We'll get a little bit of practice time, some opportunities to rest and then get ready again. Right now we're still in a fight, which I think is good for us, to stay focused and have that battling mentality.”
The Sharks are 22-8 (+9.3) the last 30 times that they played a home game with an O/U line of five or less, 7-2 (+3.9) this season. Prior to the late January loss, they’d beaten the Kings nine straight times here. I expect them to resume that domination this evening. 10*
|
04-02-14 |
Phoenix Coyotes v. Los Angeles Kings -170 |
|
0-4 |
Win
|
100 |
23 h 24 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on LA. After the Kings won the first meeting of the season , the Coyotes have since won each of the next three. With the schedule in their favor, tonight should be a good spot for the Kings to avenge that loss.
While the Kings had last night off, the Coyotes were busy hosting the Jets.
While they’ve admittedly played a little better on the road lately, the Coyotes typically aren’t as good away from Phoenix. For the season, they’re 15-23 (-6.8) vs. the money-line, on the road. They’ve been outscored by an average of 3.0 to 2.6 in those games, getting outshot by a 32.9 to 29.3 margin.
On the other hand, the Kings outscore teams by a 2.6 to 2.1 margin at home, outshooting them by an average of 31.9 to 23.5. That’s led to a 22-16 record here.
The Kings outshot the Coyotes by a 39-27 margin in the recent game here but were beaten by a hot Mike Smith. The Coyotes are without their #1 goalie right now though. Add it all up and its time for some payback. 7* Personal Favorite
|
04-01-14 |
Calgary Flames v. Toronto Maple Leafs -135 |
|
2-3 |
Win
|
100 |
9 h 30 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on TORONTO. Its true that the Leafs have endured an epic collapse. Their hopes of making the playoffs are all but gone. Its also true that the Flames, who now have former Leaf Brian Burke as their GM, would love to kick the Leafs while they’re down. That said, I believe this will be a great spot for the Leafs to bounce back with a badly needed victory.
While the Leafs are still mathematically alive, the Flames are officially playing out the string.
I played against the Flames in their last game, a 6-3 loss at Ottawa. Here is a small excerpt from that writeup: “...While the Flames have been playing a little better lately, they have no chance of making the playoffs. The majority of their recent success has all come in the province of Alberta. On the road, they get outscored by an average of 3.0 to 2.4. While they’ve been enjoying trying to be “spoilers,” I feel they’ll have some trouble getting up for a road game against an opponent from the opposite conference …” (Note that Calgary is now getting outscored by a 3.1 to 2.4 margin on the road.)
For all their recent problems, the Leafs still have a winning record here at Toronto. They beat the Flames at Calgary in this season’s earlier meeting and they’re 13-3 the last 16 times that they were a host in the series. I believe they’re the more talented team and I also expect them to play with more desperation. Look for that to be enough as they bounce back and (temporarily) stop the bleeding. 9* personal favorite
|
03-31-14 |
Florida Panthers v. New Jersey Devils -218 |
|
3-6 |
Win
|
100 |
25 h 31 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on NEW JERSEY. Its true that this price is a little steep. However, given the situation and matchup, I believe it could even be higher.
The Devils are fighting to make the playoffs and desperately need two points. The Panthers are playing out the string.
While the Devils outscore teams by a 2.5 to 2.1 margin at home, the Panthers get outscored by an average of 3.5 to 2.4 on the road.
While both teams are off back-to-back losses, the Devils’ losses came in a shootout. So, they’ve played hard and been competitive. On the other hand, the Panthers have lost their last two by a combined score of 7-1.
Those two Panther losses both came at Florida. They’ve been even worse in their recent road games. They’re 0-3 their last three on the road and they’ve been outscored by a 12-3 margin in those games.
These teams have met twice so far this season. The Devils won the first meeting at New Jersey. However, the Panthers beat them at Florida, a couple of weeks ago. Luongo was in net for that one - up against his former teammate (Both he and Schneider play for the Canucks) - and the Panthers won’t have him for tonight’s game.
In addition to being a perfect 5-0 (outscored them by a combined 17-6 margin) the last five times that they hosted the Panthers, the Devils are a dominating 47-30 (+21.4) the past few seasons, when facing a team which defeated them in the previous meeting. I fully expect them to improve on those stats here. 6* blue marlin
|
03-30-14 |
Washington Capitals v. Nashville Predators UNDER 5.5 |
|
3-4 |
Loss |
-122 |
12 h 15 m |
Show
|
I’m playing on Washington and Nashville to finish UNDER the total. Both teams have played a couple of recent games that topped the total. I expect a lower-scoring affair here though. Off yesterday’s 4-2 loss vs. the Bruins, note that the Caps have seen the UNDER go 9-4-1 when playing the second of back-to-back games. The last two times that they were in that situation, they didn’t manage a single goal. They lost those games by scores of 2-0 and 3-0. The Preds have alternated between allowing a lot of goals and allowing very few. On 3/18, they gave up five goals. In their next game, they permitted only two, a 2-0 loss. That was followed by a game in which they gave up five. That was followed by a 2-0 win. The next game? They gave up five once more, this time following it up by giving up only one in their next game. After allowing a whopping seven goals last time out, they should be motivated to improve defensively here. Overall, the UNDER is 11-7 when the Preds played a home game with an O/U line of 5.5, a profitable 21-12 the past couple of seasons. More of the same here. 9* best bet
|
03-30-14 |
Calgary Flames v. Ottawa Senators -142 |
|
3-6 |
Win
|
100 |
29 h 34 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-28-14 |
Nashville Predators v. Dallas Stars UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
3-7 |
Loss |
-122 |
23 h 32 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-27-14 |
Phoenix Coyotes v. New Jersey Devils -128 |
Top |
3-2 |
Loss |
-128 |
24 h 30 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-26-14 |
Philadelphia Flyers v. NY Rangers -140 |
|
1-3 |
Win
|
100 |
23 h 15 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-25-14 |
Detroit Red Wings v. Columbus Blue Jackets -135 |
|
2-4 |
Win
|
100 |
13 h 16 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-24-14 |
Phoenix Coyotes v. NY Rangers -154 |
|
3-4 |
Win
|
100 |
23 h 33 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-23-14 |
Buffalo Sabres v. Vancouver Canucks -204 |
|
2-4 |
Win
|
100 |
9 h 58 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-22-14 |
Detroit Red Wings v. Minnesota Wild -150 |
|
3-2 |
Loss |
-150 |
5 h 24 m |
Show
|
8* Wild. Analysis before 7am PST.
|
03-22-14 |
Tampa Bay Lightning v. Pittsburgh Penguins -169 |
|
3-4 |
Win
|
100 |
4 h 28 m |
Show
|
I'm playing on Pittsburgh. The Lightning are hot at the moment but I expect the Penguins to cool them off this afternoon. The Pens have owned this series over the year and are already 2-0 this season. While the Lightning are mediocre on the road, the Pens are dominant at home. Off a loss 5-4 loss, the Pens should be hungry here. They're 13-7 (+3.3) after allowing four or more goals in their previous game. They're also 20-6 (+8.3) when playing a home game with an O/U line of 5.5, a commanding 46-18 (+13.8) in that situation the past couple of seasons. 7* breakfast club
|
03-21-14 |
NY Rangers v. Columbus Blue Jackets UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
3-1 |
Win
|
100 |
26 h 9 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-20-14 |
Anaheim Ducks v. San Jose Sharks -155 |
|
2-3 |
Win
|
100 |
12 h 31 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-20-14 |
Washington Capitals v. Los Angeles Kings -180 |
|
1-2 |
Win
|
100 |
11 h 27 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-20-14 |
Tampa Bay Lightning v. Ottawa Senators -106 |
|
5-4 |
Loss |
-106 |
9 h 33 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-19-14 |
St. Louis Blues v. Chicago Blackhawks -114 |
|
0-4 |
Win
|
100 |
11 h 11 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-18-14 |
Florida Panthers v. San Jose Sharks UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
3-2 |
Win
|
100 |
14 h 44 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-18-14 |
Dallas Stars v. Pittsburgh Penguins -171 |
|
1-5 |
Win
|
100 |
8 h 24 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-17-14 |
Phoenix Coyotes v. Los Angeles Kings -178 |
|
4-3 |
Loss |
-178 |
20 h 11 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-17-14 |
Winnipeg Jets v. St. Louis Blues UNDER 5.5 |
|
1-4 |
Win
|
100 |
18 h 43 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-16-14 |
Detroit Red Wings v. Chicago Blackhawks -200 |
|
1-4 |
Win
|
100 |
10 h 7 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-16-14 |
Toronto Maple Leafs v. Washington Capitals -135 |
|
2-4 |
Win
|
100 |
6 h 35 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-16-14 |
Philadelphia Flyers v. Pittsburgh Penguins -148 |
|
4-3 |
Loss |
-148 |
3 h 9 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-15-14 |
Columbus Blue Jackets v. Minnesota Wild -130 |
|
2-1 |
Loss |
-130 |
18 h 50 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-14-14 |
Vancouver Canucks v. Washington Capitals -130 |
|
3-4 |
Win
|
100 |
19 h 37 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-13-14 |
Toronto Maple Leafs v. Los Angeles Kings UNDER 5.5 |
|
3-2 |
Win
|
100 |
14 h 13 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-12-14 |
Vancouver Canucks v. Winnipeg Jets UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
3-2 |
Win
|
100 |
15 h 27 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-11-14 |
Phoenix Coyotes v. Florida Panthers UNDER 5.5 |
|
3-1 |
Win
|
100 |
16 h 49 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-11-14 |
NY Rangers v. Carolina Hurricanes UNDER 5.5 |
|
1-3 |
Win
|
100 |
15 h 20 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-11-14 |
New Jersey Devils v. Philadelphia Flyers UNDER 5.5 |
|
2-1 |
Win
|
100 |
15 h 18 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-10-14 |
Phoenix Coyotes v. Tampa Bay Lightning -138 |
|
4-3 |
Loss |
-138 |
19 h 47 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-09-14 |
Boston Bruins v. Florida Panthers UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
5-2 |
Loss |
-126 |
15 h 15 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-09-14 |
Detroit Red Wings v. NY Rangers -152 |
|
0-3 |
Win
|
100 |
11 h 43 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-08-14 |
Calgary Flames v. Vancouver Canucks -160 |
|
1-2 |
Win
|
100 |
20 h 43 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-08-14 |
Columbus Blue Jackets v. Nashville Predators -106 |
|
1-0 |
Loss |
-106 |
17 h 46 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-08-14 |
Phoenix Coyotes v. Washington Capitals -116 |
|
2-3 |
Win
|
100 |
16 h 47 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-07-14 |
Buffalo Sabres v. Florida Panthers -155 |
|
0-2 |
Win
|
100 |
18 h 58 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-06-14 |
Columbus Blue Jackets v. Chicago Blackhawks -178 |
|
1-6 |
Win
|
100 |
20 h 43 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-05-14 |
Montreal Canadiens v. Anaheim Ducks UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
4-3 |
Loss |
-125 |
14 h 56 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-04-14 |
Carolina Hurricanes v. San Jose Sharks UNDER 5.5 |
|
3-2 |
Win
|
100 |
21 h 15 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-04-14 |
Tampa Bay Lightning v. St. Louis Blues -179 |
|
2-4 |
Win
|
100 |
19 h 47 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-04-14 |
Detroit Red Wings v. New Jersey Devils -125 |
|
3-4 |
Win
|
100 |
18 h 48 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-03-14 |
Buffalo Sabres v. Dallas Stars -200 |
|
2-3 |
Win
|
100 |
19 h 26 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-03-14 |
Columbus Blue Jackets v. Toronto Maple Leafs -123 |
Top |
2-1 |
Loss |
-123 |
19 h 30 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-02-14 |
Ottawa Senators v. Vancouver Canucks -135 |
|
4-2 |
Loss |
-135 |
15 h 6 m |
Show
|
I
|
03-01-14 |
Pittsburgh Penguins v. Chicago Blackhawks -130 |
Top |
1-5 |
Win
|
100 |
10 h 4 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-28-14 |
Minnesota Wild v. Vancouver Canucks -148 |
Top |
2-1 |
Loss |
-148 |
17 h 40 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-27-14 |
Detroit Red Wings v. Ottawa Senators -129 |
|
6-1 |
Loss |
-129 |
13 h 47 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-27-14 |
Toronto Maple Leafs v. NY Islanders UNDER 6 |
|
4-5 |
Loss |
-111 |
12 h 18 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-27-14 |
Columbus Blue Jackets v. New Jersey Devils -130 |
|
2-5 |
Win
|
100 |
12 h 16 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-26-14 |
Los Angeles Kings v. Colorado Avalanche -113 |
|
6-4 |
Loss |
-113 |
21 h 6 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-08-14 |
New Jersey Devils v. Washington Capitals -140 |
|
0-3 |
Win
|
100 |
17 h 33 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-08-14 |
Ottawa Senators v. Boston Bruins -180 |
|
2-7 |
Win
|
100 |
10 h 59 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-07-14 |
Columbus Blue Jackets v. San Jose Sharks -172 |
|
2-3 |
Win
|
100 |
19 h 24 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-06-14 |
Columbus Blue Jackets v. Los Angeles Kings -148 |
|
1-2 |
Win
|
100 |
18 h 54 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-05-14 |
Dallas Stars v. San Jose Sharks -199 |
|
1-2 |
Win
|
100 |
23 h 58 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-04-14 |
Tampa Bay Lightning v. Minnesota Wild -117 |
|
1-2 |
Win
|
100 |
16 h 46 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-04-14 |
NY Islanders v. Washington Capitals UNDER 6 |
|
1-0 |
Win
|
100 |
15 h 17 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-04-14 |
Calgary Flames v. Montreal Canadiens -168 |
|
0-2 |
Win
|
100 |
15 h 17 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-03-14 |
Philadelphia Flyers v. San Jose Sharks -180 |
|
5-2 |
Loss |
-180 |
29 h 8 m |
Show
|
I
|
02-01-14 |
Philadelphia Flyers v. Los Angeles Kings -165 |
|
2-0 |
Loss |
-165 |
11 h 15 m |
Show
|
I
|
01-31-14 |
New Jersey Devils v. Nashville Predators -128 |
|
2-3 |
Win
|
100 |
9 h 20 m |
Show
|
I
|
01-30-14 |
Florida Panthers v. Toronto Maple Leafs -159 |
|
3-6 |
Win
|
100 |
14 h 13 m |
Show
|
I
|
01-29-14 |
NY Rangers v. NY Islanders UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
2-1 |
Win
|
100 |
14 h 4 m |
Show
|
I
|
01-28-14 |
Carolina Hurricanes v. Montreal Canadiens -165 |
|
0-3 |
Win
|
100 |
16 h 17 m |
Show
|
I
|
01-27-14 |
Columbus Blue Jackets v. Carolina Hurricanes UNDER 5.5 |
Top |
2-3 |
Win
|
100 |
18 h 53 m |
Show
|
I
|
01-26-14 |
Phoenix Coyotes v. Vancouver Canucks -155 |
|
4-5 |
Win
|
100 |
12 h 19 m |
Show
|
I
|
01-26-14 |
Winnipeg Jets v. Chicago Blackhawks -232 |
|
3-1 |
Loss |
-232 |
11 h 20 m |
Show
|
I
|
01-25-14 |
Toronto Maple Leafs v. Winnipeg Jets -115 |
|
4-5 |
Win
|
100 |
14 h 26 m |
Show
|
I
|
01-24-14 |
Nashville Predators v. Calgary Flames -111 |
Top |
4-5 |
Win
|
100 |
15 h 11 m |
Show
|
I
|
01-23-14 |
Toronto Maple Leafs v. Dallas Stars -135 |
|
1-7 |
Win
|
100 |
17 h 12 m |
Show
|
I
|
01-23-14 |
Ottawa Senators v. Tampa Bay Lightning -141 |
|
3-4 |
Win
|
100 |
17 h 41 m |
Show
|
I
|
01-22-14 |
Montreal Canadiens v. Pittsburgh Penguins -166 |
|
1-5 |
Win
|
100 |
15 h 46 m |
Show
|
I
|