Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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02-01-20 | Blackhawks v. Coyotes -155 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -155 | 12 h 54 m | Show |
This is an 8* on ARIZONA Arizona has lost seven of eight including both games they’ve played since the All Star Break. This has caused them to slide down the Pacific Division standings where they are now in fifth despite having the second best goal differential (+5). The good news for the Coyotes is that they are only two points out of second place and four out of first. We like their chances of picking up two points tonight as they host a Chicago team they’ve already beaten twice this season. The Blackhawks have yet to play a game since the All Star Break, so there’s a good chance they’re rusty. The Break came at somewhat of a bad time for the ‘Hawks as they’d won five of six prior to it. Before losing Thursday to Los Angeles, the Coyotes had been 3-0 when off three straight losses. Look for their longest losing streak of the season to come to an end Saturday. Play on ARIZONA AAA |
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01-31-20 | Flyers v. Penguins -165 | Top | 3-4 | Win | 100 | 10 h 6 m | Show |
This is an 8* on PITTSBURGH This is technically the back half of a home and home between the NHL’s two Keystone State teams. But the first half was played ten days ago, before the All Star Break. The Flyers were 3-0 winners at home, giving them 60 points, but that’s only good enough for sixth place in a tight Metropolitan Division race. The Penguins have 67 points, which has them in second and a safe bet to make the playoffs. To us, Pittsburgh is a clear top four team in the Eastern Conference and they should get payback tonight. After scoring 1 goal or less in their previous game, the Penguins have gone 8-2 SU the next time out. This game being in Pittsburgh really affects how we handicap it. The Pens are 18-5-3 in home games and average 3.5 goals while giving up just 2.5. The Flyers aren’t good road team as they average only 2.8 goals while giving up 3.8, leaving them with a 10-13-2 mark. Honestly, being outscored by a full goal per game, you’d think they’d have a worse road record. This is a game where we expect the home team to dominate. Play on PITTSBURGH AAA |
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01-30-20 | Canadiens v. Sabres -102 | Top | 3-1 | Loss | -102 | 11 h 17 m | Show |
This is a 10* on UNDER Buffalo just gave up five goals in a loss to Ottawa on Tuesday and now must deal with the loss of #1 netminder Linus Ullmark as they are set to host Montreal in a battle of desperate Atlantic Division teams. Both the Sabres and Canadiens have 51 points. They also share the distinction of being 0-1 since the All Star Break. Montreal lost a home game, 4-2 to Washington. No matter who gets the call in goal for tonight, we expect both teams to be stingier than they were last time we saw them. Buffalo had allowed a total of just six goals in its last four games before the break. Interestingly, none of the five goals they allowed to Ottawa were at even strength. Three came when they were a man down, then they allowed one when on the power play themselves and the final tally came on an empty net. The Under is 5-1-1 in Montreal’s last seven games and they are 23-8-2 Under in the month of January the last three seasons. Play UNDER Montreal-Buffalo AAA |
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01-29-20 | Canucks v. Sharks -102 | Top | 5-2 | Loss | -102 | 15 h 10 m | Show |
This is a 10* on SAN JOSE We said San Jose was in quite the hole coming out of the All Star Break as there is a lot of ground to make up if they are to get back into serious playoff contention. But Monday’s 4-2 win against Anaheim was the first step in the right direction. We backed them Monday and will do so again tonight vs. Vancouver. While the Canucks currently lead the Pacific Division, it’s a tenuous lead at best. They have 10 fewer points than every other division leader across the league. Something we mentioned in backing the Sharks Monday is that they haven’t played too many home games recently. But when they have, they’ve made the most of it. They’re a perfect 3-0 at “The Tank” in 2020. Vancouver comes in riding a 3-game win streak, but all three wins were at home. On a recent road trip, they finished just 2-3. They’ve lost six of the last seven times they’ve come to San Jose. Home ice matters! Play on SAN JOSE AAA |
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01-27-20 | Ducks v. Sharks -140 | Top | 2-4 | Win | 100 | 14 h 58 m | Show |
This is a 9* on SAN JOSE It wasn’t a great first half of the season for either of these Pacific Division teams and it’ll take one heck of a run for either to get back into serious playoff contention. Considering what a down year it’s been in the Pacific (no one running away), both teams probably went into the All-Star Break scratching their heads a little bit. Anaheim did win a pair of road games, on back to back nights, against Nashville and Carolina before the Break hit while San Jose has lost three straight. All three Sharks losses were on the road though. Since the calendar turned to 2020, the Sharks have gotten to play only two home games and won them both - beating Columbus and Dallas - both of whom are red hot teams right now. So getting the Ducks at home should lead to a nice start to the second half for San Jose. They are 10-4 vs. Anaheim the last three seasons and we don’t think those two Ducks road victories before the All Star Break should be taken too seriously. This is a team that is 8-15-2 SU on the road and being outscored by a full goal per game. Play on SAN JOSE AAA |
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01-21-20 | Penguins -129 v. Flyers | Top | 0-3 | Loss | -129 | 20 h 26 m | Show |
This is a 10* on PITTSBURGH Pittsburgh has surged into second place in the Metropolitan Division by going 7-2-1 in their last 10 games. They are now only four points back of Washington. They just exacted some revenge for one of their few recent losses, beating Boston 4-3 on Saturday. (They had previously lost in Boston on Thursday.) Now the Penguins head to a place where they’ve been pretty successful through the years. They are 6-1 their last seven games here in Philadelphia and also beat the Flyers 7-1 in Pittsburgh in the only prior meeting of this season. The Flyers have fallen into sixth place in the Metro, meaning they would not be a playoff team. While they may be good enough to climb back into the top four, they simply aren’t as good as Pittsburgh is. We will note the Flyers have a 16-4-4 record at home. But Pittsburgh has proven it can win here plus the Flyers are missing top goaltender Carter Hart. Play on PITTSBURGH AAA |
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01-21-20 | Golden Knights v. Bruins -145 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 20 h 57 m | Show |
This is an 8* on BOSTON Boston comes off a home and home split with Pittsburgh, the home team having won each game. It’s been one of the rougher overall stretches for the Bruins of late as they’ve lost six of the last 10, though they still have collected points in seven of the games by going 4-3-3 overall. They remain in 1st place in the Atlantic Division with 68 points. That lead would be even wider were it not for a head-scratching NINE home losses in either OT or a shootout. Incredibly, they are 0-7 in shootouts this season. Meanwhile, they’ve lost only two times at home in regulation all year. We believe this is a team ready to start dominating at home. As for Vegas, they’ve lost five of six and are set to play a fourth consecutive road game out East. The Golden Knights are 0-4 this season after playing their previous three games on the road. The only win they’ve had the last 17 days is over a struggling Ottawa team. After some really poor luck (weird to say about a division frontrunner) in the first half of this season, we don’t think Boston is going to lose many more games at home. They’ll definitely win this one. Play on BOSTON AAA |
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01-19-20 | Islanders v. Hurricanes -170 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 9 h 21 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on CAROLINA The NHL’s Metropolitan Division has been controlled by Washington and Pittsburgh ever since realignment took place several seasons back. Those two franchises are back on top this year. But right behind them is a crowded field of playoff contenders. Count the Islanders and Hurricanes among them. Even though Carolina is sitting in sixth place with 57 points, that’s just three points back of the third place Islanders. Besides Washington and Pittsburgh, it is the Hurricanes that have the division’s best goal differential at +23. But three straight losses are what has the Canes in the position they are in right now. Two of those were division losses, but both were on the road. Losing 2-1 to Anaheim here at home Friday was not good, but we see Carolina bouncing back here and reasserting itself. Prior to losing to Anaheim, the Hurricanes had won three in a row at home, two of them shutouts. The Islanders lost to Washington yesterday, 6-4, and have now dropped four of their last five games. The only win was over Detroit, the worst team in the league. Carolina has had just one four-game losing streak this season. Won’t happen again. Play on CAROLINA AAA |
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01-18-20 | Blues v. Avalanche -139 | Top | 3-5 | Win | 100 | 7 h 57 m | Show |
This is a 10* on COLORADO While calling this “do or die” for the Avalanche would be overstating things, it’s a game they desperately want to have. Tied for second in the Central Division, the Avs are 10 points back of first place St. Louis, who is the opponent this afternoon. Coming into the New Year, the Avs had lost six straight times to the Blues. But that changed with a commanding 7-3 win on the 2nd of this month, a game that was played right here in Denver. It just so happens that was a Game of the Week play from us. Even though the revenge angle is now technically gone, we feel even more strongly about backing Colorado today. They have the better goal differential compared to St. Louis. Also, each team’s results from its last five games are misleading. St. Louis was a massive favorite in each of its last five games. So the fact they’ve gone 4-1 shouldn’t be that surprising. All five games were also at home. Colorado had dropped a couple decisions in OT before shutting San Jose out, 4-0, on Thursday. We expect the Avs to treat this like their most important game of the year (so far). Play accordingly. Play on COLORADO AAA |
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01-16-20 | Penguins v. Bruins -126 | Top | 1-4 | Win | 100 | 11 h 23 m | Show |
This is an 8* on BOSTON Boston has lost two in a row and was just shut out 3-0 at Columbus on Tuesday. But each of those two losses came on the road. Tuesday was their first time being shut out this season. The Bruins return home Thursday and don’t be fooled by the number of defeats (11) they’ve suffered here in Boston. Nine of those 11 losses have come after regulation. Their two regulation losses are the fewest at home by any team in the league. Now it won’t be easy beating Pittsburgh, even in Beantown. But look for the Bruins to do it. We know the Penguins have won four straight, but they’ve still given up 12 goals in doing so. Three of the four wins came by a score of 4-3, two of them coming beyond regulation. The Penguins record on the road is only 12-7-2. The fact that Pittsburgh scored seven goals on Tuesday (Crosby’s first game back) has a bearing on both teams. The Penguins are 2-6 after scoring five or more times in their last game. The Bruins are 8-1 when facing a team that just scored at least five times. Even without goaltender Tuukka Rask, the hosts win this battle of premier teams. Play on BOSTON AAA |
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01-15-20 | Blackhawks v. Canadiens -175 | Top | 4-1 | Loss | -175 | 11 h 58 m | Show |
This is a 7* on MONTREAL After a horribly unlucky eight-game losing streak, which saw six of the games decided by just one goal, Montreal has finally begun to turn it around. They beat Ottawa in overtime Saturday, then shut out Calgary here at home Monday. We had the Canadiens in both wins. For that win Monday, we pointed out that despite Calgary being a first place team, they actually had the same goal differential as the Habs. Tonight’s opponent is Chicago and not only are they not a first place team, they have been last in the Central Division much of the season. They also have a -15 goal differential even after their own back to back wins. Allowing lots of shots (36.9/game) has naturally led to the Blackhawks giving up lots of goals (3.4/game) in road games. They were in Ottawa last night and had to go to overtime to get the 3-2 win. So fatigue could be a factor tonight. Montreal doesn’t have nearly the same number of injuries as Chicago is dealing with right now. Play on MONTREAL AAA |
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01-14-20 | Golden Knights -152 v. Sabres | Top | 2-4 | Loss | -152 | 10 h 26 m | Show |
This is an 8* on VEGAS In the Atlantic, Metropolitan and Central Divisions, first place is occupied by a team with at least 66 points. In fact, the leaders of those respective divisions (Boston, Washington & St. Louis) happen to have the three highest point totals in the league right now. But in the Pacific, 55 points (Calgary/Arizona) leads the way. Vegas is in the Pacific and just one point out of first place (54 points) despite a pretty mediocre. Three consecutive losses have hurt the Golden Knights, but obviously they remain in the thick of the division race. We like them quite a bit tonight as they should bounce back at Buffalo. The Sabres started their season at 8-1-1 through 10 games. Since then, they’ve gone 12-18-7, meaning they’ve lost two-thirds of their games. They beat the worst team in the league (Detroit) on Sunday, but that hardly convinces us that the Sabres are worth betting in this spot. The entirety of the Vegas three-game losing streak came at home, which is odd, but maybe hitting the road is what they need. This will be their third game in the last four days and they are just 3-9 SU off their previous 12 wins. Play on VEGAS AAA |
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01-13-20 | Flames v. Canadiens -105 | Top | 0-2 | Win | 100 | 10 h 57 m | Show |
This is a 10* on MONTREAL Montreal finally did it, snapping an eight-game losing streak by beating Ottawa 2-1 on Saturday night. It took overtime to do it, which was almost apropos considering the number of one-goal losses than the Canadiens had endured during their slide. While one win is nice, the Habs are not “out of the woods” yet as the suddenly hot Flames come calling here on Monday night. Calgary’s five-game win streak has them in first place in the Pacific Division, a place they’re familiar with as that’s where they finished a season ago. However, we don’t feel this year’s Flames are nearly as good as the 2018-19 edition. This team has a negative goal differential (-8), which is quite odd for a first place team. Furthermore, Montreal actually has a slightly better goal differential (of -5), further proof that the East is by far the stronger conference this season. Don’t be fooled by the point totals or recent streaks. Montreal is the play here. Play on MONTREAL AAA |
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01-12-20 | Canucks v. Wild -150 | Top | 4-1 | Loss | -150 | 8 h 16 m | Show |
This is a 10* on MINNESOTA For much of this year, Minnesota has played considerably better at home. But they’ve dropped three of four at the Xcel Center, the last one coming as part of a home and home sweep they suffered at the hands of the Calgary Flames. Still the Wild boast an 11-4-4 SU home record. They’ve had two days off since losing in Calgary. The situation today is a lot better for them than it is for Vancouver, who was in Buffalo yesterday. The Canucks beat the Sabres 6-3 for their first win on the current road trip, but they aren’t a particularly good team away from home. They’re giving up an average of 3.5 goals in road games, which makes it tough to win as you’re not going to score six times every game. The Canucks and Sabres were actually tied 3-3 in the third period yesterday before the former exploded for three goals over the final 14 minutes. Meanwhile, Minnesota has to feel like it outplayed Calgary Thursday as it had 14 shots on goal in the third period, but couldn’t get any to go in the back of the net. They lost 2-1, but the good news is that the Wild are 6-2 after allowing two goals or less their last game. Vancouver is 7-17 the last 24 times its been in the second leg of a back to back and they are 1-4 when playing a third game in four days. Play on MINNESOTA AAA |
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01-11-20 | Canadiens -126 v. Senators | Top | 2-1 | Win | 100 | 10 h 19 m | Show |
This is a 9* on MONTREAL Something will have to give Saturday night in the capital city of Ottawa as the Senators have lost six in a row while the team they host, Montreal, is on an eight-game losing streak. For many, it’s a struggle to pick a winner when both teams are struggling this badly. But for us, there are a number of reasons we’ll be backing the Canadiens in this one. First off, Ottawa played last night in Detroit. Of course, we already know that they lost, but the fact the game went to a shootout makes the situation even worse. Secondly, Montreal has been much more competitive during its losing streak than Ottawa has been during their own skid. Six of the eight losses for Montreal have been by one goal. The Senators have been outscored 29-14 these last six games. That’s largely in line with what we’ve seen from the teams all season. Montreal has been outscored by just six goals. Ottawa has been outscored by 32. Lastly, while the teams split a pair of games over in the province of Quebec this year, the Canadiens have won 7 of the previous 10 meetings. Play on MONTREAL AAA |
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01-10-20 | Coyotes v. Hurricanes -186 | Top | 0-3 | Win | 100 | 11 h 57 m | Show |
This is a 7* on CAROLINA Of the three games on Friday’s NHL slate, this one figures to be the most one-sided. Yes, we’re very aware that the team we’re playing against (Arizona) is in first place in the Pacific Division. But this is a terrible situation for the Coyotes as they were shut out last night in Tampa Bay 4-0. Host Carolina has been off for two days. What you need to understand here is how much better the Hurricanes division is. Even though they’re fourth in the Metropolitan, they have almost the same number of points as Arizona and they have a better goal differential. The Canes are a strong 11-3-1 SU against the Western Conference this year and an impressive team at home where they outscore opponents 3.7 to 2.9 goals per game with a heavy edge in shots. The Coyotes had won four in a row before getting blanked Thursday. But playing a third road game in four nights and second in two is going to catch up with them here, especially in light of injuries between the pipes. The Hurricanes are 9-4 this year playing with two days rest. Play on CAROLINA AAA |
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01-09-20 | Oilers v. Canadiens -130 | Top | 4-2 | Loss | -130 | 12 h 32 m | Show |
This is a 10* on MONTREAL Montreal is S-T-R-U-G-G-L-I-N-G. Tuesday in Detroit made it a seven-game losing streak. The most embarrassing part of it is that was the third time this year the Canadiens lost to the Red Wings, an 11-win team! Tonight the Habs will try their hand at beating Edmonton. This is a home game and while the team's record is actually WORSE in Montreal, you wouldn't know it simply by looking at how many shots per game they average here (36.6). What's interesting about this matchup is how oddsmakers continue to price these teams. Montreal, despite its losing streak and Edmonton coming off two big wins, is being favored for a fourth straight time. The Oilers two-game win streak has seen them go to Boston and Toronto and come out ahead despite being priced at +190 and +185 respectively. A third straight win as a money line dog seems unlikely. Also worth mentioning are the teams records and their corresponding goal differentials. Montreal is 18-19-7 yet has only been outscored by five goals all season. Six of the losses during this current slide have come by one goal. That's some awful luck. Edmonton is 23-17-5, but has also been outscored by five goals this season! The Oilers had been 0-6 off their previous six wins before Tuesday's 6-4 decision at Toronto. They are still 0-5 after scoring 5 or more goals the previous game. Play on MONTREAL AAA |
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01-07-20 | Islanders -120 v. Devils | Top | 4-3 | Win | 100 | 11 h 26 m | Show |
This is a 10* on the ISLANDERS The Islanders season got off to an excellent start with a 16-3-1 record through the first 20 games. But they are just 10-9-2 since and that's including last night's 1-0 win at home against Colorado. That's a good win considering the Avalanche had been shut out only one time previously and also much needed as the Islanders had lost their last two games. Now, without rest, they head to New Jersey. This should be an easy two points. The Devils are in last place and have been outscored by 38 goals this season. They just lost to Colorado, 5-2, on Saturday. The Islanders shutting out Colorado was even more impressive when you consider the Avs are the highest scoring team in the league. New Jersey has scored the second fewest goals. The Islanders have given up the second fewest. They've been in a scoring drought themselves, but only two teams have allowed more goals than New Jersey. The Devils have some key injuries too. NY is actually 14-3 the last 17 times its taken the ice without rest. New Jersey has lost 17 of the last 21 times it has played with 2 days rest. Play on NY ISLANDERS AAA |
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01-06-20 | Jets v. Canadiens -145 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -145 | 22 h 39 m | Show |
This is an 8* on MONTREAL Montreal has slipped down the Atlantic Division standings, the reason being they've lost five straight games. But their 43 points still has the Canadiens very viable to make a run to the playoffs. But they can't afford too many more slip-ups and tonight almost feels like one of those "must-wins" as they host Winnipeg. The Jets have lost two in a row themselves, not to mention seven of the last nine games as well. So one team's misery is going to continue after tonight. We believe it will be the Jets. They've allowed at least four goals in seven of the last nine games. At the same time, they failed to notch even one goal at even strength in Saturday's 3-2 overtime loss at Minnesota. Montreal is also off an overtime loss and four of their last five losses have been by one goal and they've been facing some pretty strong competition lately. The Jets have won just 4 of their last 17 visits to Quebec and the Canadiens are 14-5 the last 19 times they've been off a game where they scored two or less goals. Play on MONTREAL AAA |
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01-04-20 | Blues v. Golden Knights -135 | Top | 4-5 | Win | 100 | 8 h 25 m | Show |
This is a 9* on VEGAS Each of Vegas last three games were played at home. They've won all of them. St. Louis last two games were both on the road. They lost twice. While an eight-game win streak preceded that for the Blues, unfortunately tonight they are back on the road. Sin City is a place that has been unwelcome to visiting teams ever since the Golden Knights came into existence. This year has been no different as the Golden Knights have gone 13-7-3 at T-Mobile Arena. Making the Knights tough to beat is the fact that they've scored at least three times in each of their last 10 games. They've scored 14 goals during this three-game home win streak, finding the back of the net at least four times in every game. The Blues just gave up seven goals at Colorado on Thursday, a result that we were on the right side of as it was our 10* Game of the Week. We feel just as strong about fading the Blues Saturday afternoon as Vegas is 6-1 its last seven home games. The Knights record since Thanksgiving is 11-4-2 SU. Play on VEGAS AAA |
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01-02-20 | Blues v. Avalanche -125 | Top | 3-7 | Win | 100 | 12 h 37 m | Show |
This is a 10* on COLORADO Very big game for the Avalanche, which is why we're playing them. A series of poor defensive efforts have led to a three-game losing streak. In their last game, they gave up seven goals. They've now lost four in a row at home and surrendered 21 goals during that slide. In comes first place St. Louis, which looks like it could be trouble, as they've beaten the Avs six straight times. But don't be afraid to buck these trends tonight as we're banking on Colorado playing its most inspired game of the year. Both losses to the Blues this year were in St. Louis. Of the four losses to them last season, three came in either overtime or a shootout. Colorado has scored 16 more goals than St. Louis this year despite playing one less game. The Blues had an eight-game win streak snapped on New Year's Eve. As good as they've looked, we don't think they can match Colorado's scoring capabilities. Play on COLORADO AAA |
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12-29-19 | Blackhawks v. Blue Jackets -153 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -153 | 9 h 54 m | Show |
This is an 8* on COLUMBUS Columbus had a five-game win streak stopped on Friday, but they still earned a point by taking Washington to overtime. There's no shame in losing to the Capitals on the road, especially when it takes extra time. Tonight the Blue Jackets face a far less complete team as Chicago makes its yearly visit to Ohio. The Blackhawks injury situation is as dire as any team in the league right now. Defensemen Brent Seabrook and Calvin de Haan were both recently placed on IR. While the team was able to win its first game without them, 5-2 over the Islanders, they actually were lucky to as they gave up 40 shots. Three forwards, one of them Brandon Saad, are also out with injuries. Columbus has earned a point in nine straight games, going 6-0-3, and they are allowing less than 2.0 goals/game during the streak. Their penalty kill is at 85.7% as well. The last three home games have seen the Blue Jackets win by a combined score of 11-3. Play on COLUMBUS AAA |
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12-28-19 | Avalanche v. Stars -121 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 10 h 35 m | Show |
This is a 10* on DALLAS Colorado is in a tough spot here as they just played a hard-fought game last night and lost 6-4 at home to Minnesota. Now they head out to Dallas to face a Stars team that has been off for almost a full week. The last time the Stars played a game was Sunday when they were beaten 5-1 Calgary, also a home game. They've actually lost two in a row and four of six, so you know they've been "chomping at the bit" to get back on the ice. Dallas remains one of the league's stingier team as they give up only 2.1 goals/game at home. So don't read too much into the last two games. Colorado has also lost four of its last six games and has given up a lot of goals along the way. This is a tremendous situation for the home team, that's too good to pass up. One final note - the Stars are 2-0 vs. the Avalanche this year and they've outscored them 6-2. Play on DALLAS AAA |
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12-27-19 | Bruins -156 v. Sabres | Top | 3-0 | Win | 100 | 10 h 59 m | Show |
This is an 8* on BOSTON Boston still has a substantial lead in the Atlantic Division, but it's not like they've been playing all that well lately. They've lost 8 of their last 10 games, four of those defeats coming after regulation. The Bruins have nine overtime or shootout losses this year (0-5 in shootouts). No other team has more than six. Many times, such a lack of fortune can sink a team's season. But not this team. Back on Monday, they showed what they are capable of by delivering a 7-3 win over Washington. Look for more of that in the immediate future. Tonight they're in Buffalo to take on a Sabres team that's lost four of its last five. Boston is 2-0 playing with three or more days rest this season, Buffalo is 0-3. While the Sabres can be a high scoring team, the Bruins have proven they can score in all settings. Any fears over the Bruins recent losing skid were put to rest Monday with the win over the Capitals. If Buffalo elects to go with Carter Hutton in goal, that would be an unwise decision as he's winless his last 10 starts with a 4.19 GAA. Play on BOSTON AAA |
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12-23-19 | Coyotes v. Predators -148 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 9 h 38 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on NASHVILLE We like the spot here for Nashville and on the flip side, it's a tough one for Arizona. The Coyotes played Sunday and while they won 5-2, it was against Detroit, who is the worst team in the league. Two games ago, they lost goalie Darcy Keumper to injury, meaning that Antti Raanta is likely to be called into duty for consecutive nights. Despite getting the win yesterday, Raanta has been far from lights out this season. Following a 3-0-1 road trip, Nashville had Sunday off. Look for the Predators to take full advantage of Keumper's absence here as they are second in the Western Conference in goals scored. While Arizona is in first place of its division and Nashville is fifth in theirs, there isn't a huge difference in points. Play on NASHVILLE AAA |
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12-20-19 | Capitals -183 v. Devils | Top | 6-3 | Win | 100 | 11 h 41 m | Show |
This is a 7* on WASHINGTON Should be an easy two points for the Capitals this evening. They are playing the Devils, who just traded Taylor Hall and are at the opposite end of the division. Washington leads the Metro with 53 points. New Jersey is last with 27. Keep in mind we've only played 30-something games. By the end of the season, the points gap between these teams should be among the largest in the league. Washington isn't going to fool around tonight either. They've had three days off since being blanked by Columbus, 3-0. That was just the second loss in the last 10 games. Both were against the Blue Jackets. New Jersey, which has won back to back games for just the fourth time all season, hasn't won three in a row in almost a full calendar year. The Capitals are 26-10 SU the last three years after getting held to one or zero goals in their last game. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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12-19-19 | Canadiens v. Flames -130 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -130 | 22 h 13 m | Show |
This is a 10* on CALGARY Calgary has lost two in a row at the Saddledome and we're willing to bank that streak won't reach three. While the Flames were outscored 8-1 by the Hurricanes and Penguins, let's not lose sight of the fact that they'd won seven in a row before suffering those back to back home losses. Montreal comes in with a solid road record, but you also can't forget that they recently lost at home to Detroit, the worst team in the entire NHL. The level of goaltending the Canadiens are getting from Carey Price lately is pretty remarkable, but the chances of Price keeping it up are small. He's got a .952 save percentage his last five starts, an unsustainable number. The Flames have had lots of scoring chances the last two games, but just haven't been able to cash in. Our guess is they're going to find the back of the net more times than you think tonight. Montreal gives up a lot of shots when they're on the road. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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12-12-19 | Maple Leafs -116 v. Flames | Top | 2-4 | Loss | -116 | 12 h 35 m | Show |
This is a 10* on TORONTO Calgary has won six in a row, but we’re not buying it as they’ve still got a negative goal differential this season. Give them credit for winning at both Colorado and Arizona, but before that it had been some weak competition. Tonight it’s a Toronto team that is also off two impressive road wins. They won at St. Louis and Vancouver, scoring nine goals in the process. Frederik Andersen continues to produce in goal for the Maple Leafs as he made 38 saves against the Coyotes. He has a .941 save percentage in non-conference games. The Leafs average 3.5 goals per game on the road. That’s tied for third best in the league. The Flames have responded well to the coaching change, but it’s just a temporary thing. Play on TORONTO AAA |
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12-09-19 | Islanders v. Lightning -183 | Top | 5-1 | Loss | -183 | 10 h 42 m | Show |
This is a 6* on TAMPA BAY After a record-setting regular season and a shocking first round playoff exit last season, the Lightning made for an interesting team to evaluate coming into 2019-20. Right now, they actually sit in sixth place in the Atlantic, a division they won by 21 points a season ago. However, they actually scored 15 more goals than they've allowed, which tells us that better results could be on the horizon. The Lightning are certainly being price like a real "heavyweight" for tonight's game against the Islanders. Maybe that's because of they beat San Jose 7-1 on Saturday. Or maybe it's just because the linesmakers know that this is still one of the better home teams in the league. Despite being in sixth place, the Lightning lead the league with an average of 4.3 goals/game scored at home. The Islanders aren't a great road team, primarily because they only average 2.3 goals/game there. Too much scoring will be the difference for the hosts in this one. Play on TAMPA BAY AAA |
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12-05-19 | Rangers v. Blue Jackets -135 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -135 | 10 h 6 m | Show |
This is a 9* on COLUMBUS Neither team is playing "well" at the moment. The Rangers are coming off a 4-1 loss to Vegas where it could be argued that the power play was the difference. Vegas scored twice when it had the man advantage. New York was 0 for 6. Columbus has had issues scoring - whether on the power play or at even strength. They've gone 6-9-2 the last 17 games while being held to three goals or fewer 14 times. They lost 4-2 to Arizona Tuesday right here in Ohio. This boils down to the fact the Blue Jackets have had the Rangers number. Columbus is 5-0-1 the past six meetings. We also don't see the Blue Jackets losing two straight at home. It was a similar spot on 11/29 when they were facing Pittsburgh. Two days earlier they'd dropped a home game to the Flyers. They'd go on to beat the Penguins 5-2. The Rangers are allowing far too many shots on goal. The number is 36.5/game on the road. While they often struggle to score, the Blue Jackets are a good defensive team. Play on COLUMBUS AAA |
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12-04-19 | Capitals -128 v. Kings | Top | 3-1 | Win | 100 | 13 h 25 m | Show |
This is a 10* on WASHINGTON This seems like an easy one for the Capitals, no? The leaders in the Metropolitan travel to Los Angeles to take on the last place team in the Pacific. There is a 21-point gap between the Caps and the Kings. Sometimes that can be misleading. Not here. Last night's 5-2 win at San Jose made it four straight for Washington. They've scored at least four goals in each of the four wins. This all makes it seem like a real cheap price on what anyone would feel is the better team tonight. If you were wondering, the Capitals are 3-1 in the second night of a back to back so far this season. The Kings lost Monday in Anaheim by a score of 4-2. They have been a better team at home, but most of the teams that come to Staples Center aren't as good as the one visiting tonight. The Capitals are 12-4 after scoring at least four goals the previous game. They've won three straight in this scenario, obviously. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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12-03-19 | Wild v. Panthers -130 | Top | 4-2 | Loss | -130 | 11 h 44 m | Show |
This is an 8* on FLORIDA Minnesota has won three in a row. We took them on Friday when they downed Ottawa 7-2, which was their biggest win to date in terms of margin. But that was at home as was Sunday's 3-1 win over Dallas. The Wild have been a much better team at home so far, going 7-1-2 as opposed to 5-10-2 on the road. They are back on the road tonight, visiting Florida. The Panthers are in second place in the Atlantic Division right now with only the red hot Bruins ahead of them. What's interesting is that the gap between the Panthers and Bruins is almost as large as the gap between the Panthers and the last place team in the division, Detroit. While a division title may not be in the cards for Florida, they still should easily beat this Minnesota team. The Panthers are 7-3-2 SU at home. The favorite has won eight of the last 10 times these teams have played. The home team has won four straight. Minnesota has been without goalie Devan Dubnyk, which will eventually catch up with them. Florida has turned to 25-year old Chris Driedger, who earned a shutout in his first career NHL start on Saturday. The Panthers won 3-0 over Nashville. While the Wild are only averaging 2.4 goals/game on the road, the Panthers average 3.7 here at home. Play FLORIDA AAA |
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12-01-19 | Oilers v. Canucks -123 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -123 | 13 h 39 m | Show |
This is a 10* on VANCOUVER Vancouver goes for a home and home sweep tonight against Edmonton. They won in Alberta 5-2 yesterday. Key to last night's win were a couple of early goals, one on the power play and the other short-handed. The teams were even at even strength, though the Canucks had the edge in shots. Despite being the 1st place team in the Pacific, the Oilers give up a lot of goals. They've allowed 19 in the last five games and 34 in the last nine. Three times in their last five games, Vancouver has scored five or more. The Canucks have won 3 of 5 and one of the losses saw them blow a three-goal lead in the final six minutes. Edmonton has pulled off a lot of come from behind victories this year, which isn't really a viable pathway for success. They are 25th in Corsi For %. Play on VANCOUVER AAA |
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11-29-19 | Senators v. Wild -187 | Top | 2-7 | Win | 100 | 15 h 46 m | Show |
This is a 6* on MINNESOTA Ottawa isn't a good team and they are set to embark on a five-game road trip that will take them all around North America. With only one goal scored in the last two games, we don't like their chances very much today in Minnesota. The Wild aren't exactly tearing it up either as they are the last place team in the Central. But they've shown more life than the Senators have. They just won in New Jersey on Wednesday, which was the fourth time in the last five games they played on the road. The one home game was a 3-2 win against Colorado. Minnesota simply hasn't gotten to play many times at their own rink this season. Of their 25 games played, 17 have been on the road. Only once have the Wild lost a home game in regulation. They are 5-1-2 at the Xcel Center. They also shut out the Senators earlier this year, 2-0 in Ottawa. Play on MINNESOTA AAA |
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11-27-19 | Canucks v. Penguins -165 | Top | 6-8 | Win | 100 | 20 h 48 m | Show |
This is a 7* on PITTSBURGH Pittsburgh came through for us on Monday, winning a shootout against Calgary. The Penguins now look to complete a perfect three-game homestand as they host Vancouver Wednesday night. The Canucks have not played all that well of late, though they did pull a couple upsets on this road trip. Still, despite wins in Nashville and Washington, Vancouver has lost 8 of its last 11 games. They were beaten 2-1 in Philadelphia Monday night as they were limited to just 17 shots on goal. Even the two wins on this road trip were not the most well-played games by the Canucks. They got an unusual five power play goals against Nashville, the kind of edge they may not enjoy again the rest of this season. Against Washington, they pulled off a late rally. It's not been a good November for the team hailing from B.C. Pittsburgh is still trying to work its way through the Sidney Crosby injury, but there's more than enough talent on hand to compensate for his absence. This is Vancouver's fifth straight road game, not a great spot, while the Penguins are playing a third straight at home. Canucks average 2.5 goals on the road. Penguins average 3.4 at home. Play on PITTSBURGH AAA |
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11-25-19 | Flames v. Penguins -150 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 9 h 49 m | Show |
This is a 9* on PITTSBURGH Calgary was able to snap a 6-game losing streak on Saturday as they rallied to beat Philadelphia in a shootout. But look for the joy to be short-lived. Tonight they head to Pittsburgh, a place where most Western Conference teams have not fared well this year. The Penguins are still trying to work their way through the Sidney Crosby injury. But by re-tooling their top line, things look like they'll be just fine without their superstar. Malkin-Guentzel-Rust are playing quite well with each other. Malkin has 20 points in the last six games while his new linemates have combined for six goals. The Flames don't do much scoring on the road where they are averaging a league-low 1.8 goals/game. During their 6-game losing streak, they were shutout three times and all three were away from home. Pittsburgh's goal differential is +18. Calgary is at -15. The Flames have also lost 7 of 11 games to teams that have winning records. Play on PITTSBURGH AAA |
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11-21-19 | Jets v. Stars -154 | Top | 3-5 | Win | 100 | 26 h 0 m | Show |
This is a 10* on DALLAS We took the Stars Tuesday night, a game which they ended up beating Vancouver 6-1. They are now 8-0-1 the last nine games. Tonight, they get a chance to avenge that one loss as they face off with Winnipeg. It was a 3-2 Jets win in overtime the last time these teams met. Winnipeg has now managed to go 10-1-1 in one goal games this year. They just beat Nashville 2-1 on Tuesday. While they were up the whole game, it's still a one-goal win. Our view is that the Jets have been more lucky than good. They were outshot by the Predators 39-25. The Stars started the year 1-7-1. That's now a distant memory as they are 11-1-1 since. The key to the resurgence has been defense/goaltending. In eight of those last 13 games, they've allowed just one goal. That has allowed them to move up to #2 in the league in goals allowed. Only Arizona allows fewer. Dallas is also 64-31 the last 95 times it has been a home favorite of -151 to -200. Winnipeg is 29-65 the last 94 times it has been a road underdog of +151 to +200. So, as you might have guessed from a line such as this, the trends (and odds) are in the Stars favor. Play on DALLAS AAA |
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11-20-19 | Capitals -180 v. Rangers | Top | 1-4 | Loss | -180 | 13 h 47 m | Show |
This is a 7* on WASHINGTON The Rangers look to be in some severe trouble here. They have been giving up a lot of goals lately (including NINE in one game last week) and now must face Washington, who leads the league in goals scored. This likely doesn't end well for the home team. The Capitals have won 13 of their last 16 games with two of the losses coming in overtime. They put up a 5-spot on Anaheim Monday night, a game they led 4-0 five minutes into the third period. The result was never really in doubt there. The result was also never really in doubt when the Capitals beat the Rangers 5-2 last month. They've now beaten NY eight of the last nine times they've played them. The Rangers have given up seven power play goals the last two games. Washington's power play percentage of 24.3 ranks among the five best in the league. The Caps are 10-1-1 on the road this year. The Rangers are just giving up so many shots lately that it's difficult to imagine Washington not scoring a lot of goals here tonight. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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11-19-19 | Hurricanes -117 v. Blackhawks | Top | 4-2 | Win | 100 | 10 h 53 m | Show |
This is a 10* on CAROLINA Two hot teams are set to meet in the Windy City. Carolina comes in on a three-game win streak. Chicago has won four in a row. Both teams have scored plenty of goals during the respective win streaks. The Hurricanes have found the back of the net 17 times in the last three games while the Blackhawks have scored 21 goals in four games. This has the makings of another high-scoring affair, but we think only one side is likely to hold up its end of the bargain. There was a meeting in Raleigh earlier this year, which the Canes won 4-0. Since then, a decision was made by Chicago to "go young" i.e. putting several of its prospects in prominent positions. It's worked so far, but it's long-term effect is still unknown. Both teams have given up 59 goals in 20 games. But Carolina has scored nine more times than Chicago this year (70 vs. 61). The Hurricanes also allow far less shots per game. They allow the third fewest number of shots in the league. Chicago allows the most. Carolina is the call here. Play on CAROLINA AAA |
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11-19-19 | Canucks v. Stars -129 | Top | 1-6 | Win | 100 | 10 h 43 m | Show |
This is an 8* on DALLAS Vancouver has cooled off a lot. Their only win in the last seven games came at home. It was a 5-3 decision against Nashville exactly one week ago. As for Dallas, things have swung in a much different direction for them recently. They've gone 7-0-1 the last eight games and 10-1-1 the last 12. These teams just met in Vancouver with the Stars winning 4-2 as +130 underdogs. That was part of a 3-0 sweep through Western Canada for Dallas. They finished things off with a 5-4 overtime win against Edmonton on Saturday. Right now, everything seems to be going their way. Vancouver has actually won three straight times here in Dallas, but that's a streak we don't see continuing. The Canucks are 0-4 this season when seeking revenge for a home loss and 16-34 their last 50 in this situation. Dallas is 5-0 this year when playing on two days rest. Play on DALLAS AAA |
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11-13-19 | Capitals -117 v. Flyers | Top | 2-1 | Win | 100 | 11 h 25 m | Show |
This is a 10* on WASHINGTON The Capitals saw their six-game win streak come to an end Monday night vs. Arizona. It was just their second loss in the last 12 games. We see them getting back in the win column tonight in Philadelphia. Monday's loss to the Coyotes saw the game go to a shootout. Four of Washington's six losses this year have occurred after regulation time has ended. The problem against Arizona was the Capitals fell behind 3-0. That they even got the game to OT is somewhat impressive. Really there's no reason to be concerned with one loss. Philadelphia brings its own four-game win streak into tonight, which is a season-high. But the last three wins have all come in overtime or a shootout. So it's not like the Flyers are dominating. Having gone past regulation in five of the last six games, the Flyers tank may be running close to empty right about now. Washington has picked up a point in 12 straight games (10-0-2) and hasn't lost in regulation in a month (Oct 13). Washington won all four times they faced Philly last season. Three different times, they scored five goals. They led the league in scoring this year. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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11-09-19 | Blues v. Flames -145 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -145 | 12 h 1 m | Show |
This is a 9* Play on CALGARY Calgary finished with the most points in the Western Conference last regular season. But they would obviously switch places with St. Louis in a hearbeat as it was the Blues capturing their first ever Stanley Cup last June. These two teams meet Saturday night at the Saddledome. The Blues have won six straight. The Flames have won four of five, the last two coming here on home ice. For the Blues, this is a 4th consecutive game played on the road and the third in a row in Western Canada. They managed to down Vancouver and Edmonton back to back nights. But we think the schedule catches up with them here. Calgary has 22 points. There's only five teams with more, St. Louis being one of them. But the Blues are only +5 in goals scored vs. allowed. We think they're a little lucky to be sitting at 11-3-3 right now. The Flames are averaging 4.0 goals/game at home where they are 6-2. St. Louis has had to come from behind in 8 of its 11 wins. That can't keep happening. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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11-08-19 | Devils v. Oilers -160 | Top | 0-4 | Win | 100 | 14 h 46 m | Show |
This is a 10* on EDMONTON Edmonton comes into tonight tied for first place in the Pacific Division. But while both they and rival Calgary have 22 points, the Oilers have played two fewer games. Tonight should be an easy two points as they host the last place team in the Metropolitan Division, New Jersey. The Devils have just 12 points, though four of their 10 losses have come after regulation. Still this bad start is a real disappointment for a team that had aspirations of making the playoffs. The Devils are the reason that the Oilers are now tied with the Flames for first in the Pacific. They lost 5-2 in Calgary last night. New Jersey had won two in a row prior to last night's defeat. It was the second time this year they'd won consecutive games, only to get blown out their next time hitting the ice. Calgary outshot them 38-23 and really dominated the game in all facets. This will be the Devils third road game in four days. Only three teams have scored fewer goals this season. They have a -16 goal differential. Lack of scoring has been a recent issue for Edmonton as well as they've lost two straight and 7 of 9. But the last two times they've been off consecutive losses, they come back to score 4 goals and win. Play on EDMONTON AAA |
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11-01-19 | Stars v. Avalanche -141 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -141 | 13 h 9 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on COLORADO Colorado is enjoying a strong start to the season. They are 8-2-2 and lead the Central Division with 18 points. Tonight they will play host to a Dallas team whose nine losses are tied for most in the league. Seems like a mismatch to us.It's fair to call this a mismatch even though the Avalanche have lost two straight games. Both were at home, the last one (Wednesday vs. Anaheim) coming in overtime. They were pretty decent sized favorites for both of those games. It's hard for us to imagine them losing three in a row as home favorites. Dallas has won 4 of 5. But the last four games were all played at home. The Stars have yet to really look good on the road where they are averaging just 24.9 shots per game. Also, before this 4-1 stretch, they hadn't won a single time in regulation all year. We're looking at the big picture here, not falling for recency bias. The big problem for Colorado right now is injuries as two of their top three players (Landeskog and Rantanen) are out. But they still held a two goal lead in the third period against Anaheim. They should have won. The Stars scored a season-high six goals in their most recent game. But they still are averaging just 2.2 goals/game for the year. Colorado averages 3.9. Play on COLORADO AAA |
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10-29-19 | Flyers v. Penguins -150 | Top | 1-7 | Win | 100 | 10 h 26 m | Show |
analysis soon |
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10-25-19 | Sharks v. Maple Leafs -165 | Top | 1-4 | Win | 100 | 11 h 23 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on TORONTO The Leafs are struggling a bit as they've lost two straight games. The first loss took place here at home as they got beat 4-3 by Columbus in overtime on a penalty shot. The following night they had to go to Boston and lost 4-2, which given the circumstance isn't all that worrisome. Having been off for two days, the team should rebound tonight. They face a San Jose team that now finds itself in the second game of a back to back and playing its third road game in four nights, all of which have been out East. The Sharks did win last night in Montreal 4-2. But that was after losing four of their first five road games. Toronto is scoring a lot more than San Jose is right now. There's a 12-goal difference between the teams as the Maple Leafs still remain one of the highest scoring teams in the league. Let's now hope the goaltending starts to improve. The Sharks lost the only other time they've been in a back to back this season, 3-1 to Anaheim back on October 5th. Take the well-rested team that's hungry for a win. Play on TORONTO AAA |
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10-24-19 | Coyotes v. Islanders -117 | Top | 2-4 | Win | 100 | 11 h 53 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on the ISLANDERS Both the Coyotes (5-2-1) and Islanders (5-3) come into tonight on four-game win streaks. Arizona has been getting the job done by scoring plenty of goals (17) while the Islanders haven't been giving many up (7). So something will have to give tonight at the Nassau Coliseum. This being a home game for the Isles is an advantage. So is the schedule, which has given them last four days off. The 'Yotes just played Tuesday here in New York, against the Rangers. They won obviously, but needed overtime to do so. They're likely to struggle to score tonight. The Islanders not giving up many goals is nothing new. They gave up the fewest goals in the league in last year's regular season. Also, the first four games saw Arizona tally just seven goals. So the offensive decline seems all but inevitable this evening. Then you have the fact the Islanders have really had the 'Yotes number the last couple seasons. They swept the pair of matchups last year and are 10-3-2 the L15 times playing host. The Isles are also 16-5 their last 21 non-conference games. Play on NEW YORK AAA |
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10-22-19 | Kings v. Jets -136 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -136 | 12 h 19 m | Show |
We rode Winnipeg to a 1-0 victory over Edmonton on Sunday. That game did happen to go to a shootout, but keep in mind that they beat a team that entered with a record of 7-1. Here the Jets are going to be facing a much weaker foe in the Kings. The Kings are in last place in the Pacific, the same place where they finished last year. LA is off a rare win, 4-1 against Calgary, which snapped a three-game losing streak. But the win came at home. The Kings have won just once on the road so far. Winnipeg also snapped a three-game losing streak with that win over Edmonton, but remember what we said in our writeup. The previous three losses all came at home and that was something we could not see continuing. The Kings had been shutout in two straight games before beating the Flames. Fading them off a win seems like a smart move, especially with this being the second of two straight road games. Play on WINNIPEG |
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10-20-19 | Oilers v. Jets -132 | Top | 0-1 | Win | 100 | 9 h 5 m | Show |
This is a 10* on WINNIPEG Winnipeg has lost three in a row, all at home. They won’t lose four, right? Edmonton is 7-1, but has had to come back multiple times and is being outshot on the year. They have a shooting percentage of nearly 15%, which will not continue. The Jets and Oilers have played six times the last two years. Winnipeg has won five of those games. They are also 5-1 the last two seasons when off three consecutive losses. We just can’t see the Jets losing four in a row at home. We remain skeptical of Edmonton. With two days off to prepare for this one, look for the home team to grab the two points. Play on WINNIPEG AAA |
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10-18-19 | Rangers v. Capitals -200 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 11 h 33 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on WASHINGTON Great spot to play the Capitals tonight, in our opinion. They're rested while the Rangers are in the second night of a back to back. The Rangers lost 5-2 in New Jersey last night. That's a Devils team that had been winless in its first six games. Washington has been one of the Rangers least favorite opponents the last few years. They lost all four times to them in 2018-19 and are 1-4-5 SU the L10 meetings. The Capitals come in fresh here after beating Toronto 4-3 Wednesday night. Scoring goals hasn't been an issue the last four games for Washington as they've found the back of the net 16 times. They have had their issues at the other end, but shouldn't here. The Rangers have only three goals in their last two games and went 0 for 6 on the power play last night. The schedule has been odd for the Rangers so far as they've played only four games. This kind of rest is good later in the season, but the amount of inaction this early leaves them rusty and they're not about to fix their issues in a game with no rest. Washington was already the superior team and seemingly has every edge that they'd need to get the two points here. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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10-16-19 | Hurricanes v. Sharks -124 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 15 h 42 m | Show |
This is a 10* on SAN JOSE Carolina is off to a red-hot 6-1 start, their only loss coming at home to Columbus on Saturday. But they're underdogs on the money line Wednesday, playing in the second night of a back to back. The Hurricanes are facing a San Jose team that's off two straight wins following an 0-4 start. The Sharks struggled to find the back of the net in those four losses, two of which were against Vegas. But in one game, a 5-4 win over Chicago, they matched their number of goals scored from the previous four. Then came a 3-1 win over the Flames Sunday here at home. Carolina won 2-0 against Los Angeles Tuesday night. But they were outshot 31-23. This is the best start in franchise history. However, do note that the Canes only loss did come in the second night of a back to back. The turnaround in San Jose coincides with the return of Patrick Marleau to the lineup. The Sharks haven't lost since their all-time leader in minutes played, goals and assists made his season debut. Carolina is due a "hiccup," plain and simple. Play on SAN JOSE AAA |
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10-15-19 | Red Wings v. Canucks -143 | Top | 1-5 | Win | 100 | 14 h 1 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on VANCOUVER The Canucks started the season with two straight losses on the road, both in the province over (Alberta) as they went down at the hands of Edmonton and Calgary. They've since ripped off two straight convincing wins at home. Fortunate for them then that tonight's game is being played in Vancouver. They'll host Detroit, a team we're not very high on this year. The Red Wings last game was a 5-2 home loss to Toronto. In the last couple years, they have not performed well after giving up at least four goals in their last game. They are 19-44 L63 in that role. Vancouver scored 8 goals in its home opener (against the Kings) and then beat Philly 3-2 here on Saturday night. In goal, they're being forced to turn to backup Thatcher Demko as #1 Jacob Markstrom is out dealing with a family matter. But that's okay by us as the Red Wings didn't get a single goal from their top three lines Saturday. Canucks are the better team here. Play on VANCOUVER AAA |
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10-14-19 | Avalanche v. Capitals -128 | Top | 6-3 | Loss | -128 | 7 h 31 m | Show |
This is a 10* on WASHINGTON The Capitals host the unbeaten Avalanche late Monday afternoon in D.C. The catch here is while the Avs may be unbeaten, all four of their wins have come at home. Tonight is the first time they've got to hit the road and last year they were just 17-24 in road games. Washington is a surprising 0-2 at home so far, but did just win in Dallas 4-2 on Saturday. They'd lost three in a row prior to that win, which was a revenge spot. Not only was it the Caps first wins in regulation at Dallas since 1995, they'd just lost to the Stars at home last Tuesday. In all three of the Capitals losses this year, they had the lead entering the 3rd period. Two of those three losses came in overtime. So sometimes records can be misleading and they are here as Washington is the betting favorite for a reason and that reason is simple. They are a better team than the unbeaten Avalanche. Colorado's roster lacks depth and winning on the road is a lot harder than winning at home. Saturday's win over Arizona needed overtime. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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10-13-19 | Flames +120 v. Sharks | Top | 1-3 | Loss | -100 | 13 h 48 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on CALGARY We played against the Flames last night. It was our Game of the Week. The Flames were in Vegas, a tough place to play, and the Golden Knights were hungry off back to back losses. The final score ended up being 6-2. Calgary has not won or lost consecutive times in the first two weeks of the season. So we expect them to battle back despite tonight being the second game of a back to back and third road game in four night. San Jose had not won a game this year before beating Chicago 5-4 Thursday. In the way, they equaled their number of goals scored from the first four games combined. With the situation being what it is, Cam Talbot will be in goal for the first time for the Flames. Any questions about him should be offset by the fact Sharks goalie Martin Jones has really struggled so far. He has an .854 save percentage and 4.56 goals against average in three games. San Jose has lost all three. The Flames are a great "grab" at plus money. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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10-12-19 | Flames v. Golden Knights -137 | Top | 2-6 | Win | 100 | 14 h 1 m | Show |
This is a 10* on VEGAS Vegas started its season by sweeping a home and home against rival San Jose. They've since lost two straight. Even though it was at home, the loss to Boston can't be considered all that bad. The Bruins have looked really good so far. But a 4-1 loss at Arizona has to be considered the Golden Knights first "bad" performance of the young campaign. They look to rebound tonight, back at home, against a Calgary team that won the Pacific Division last year. The Flames, like the Knights, have won two and lost two. One of the Flames two losses was in overtime. That was as a -250 favorite at home vs. the Kings. They came back to beat Dallas 3-2 on the road Thursday, though it went to a shootout. Vegas has been far too careless with the puck their last two games. Fortunately that can be corrected. We lean on home ice advantage tonight. Calgary has never won in Vegas, losing all four prior trips. The home team was also 4-0 in the four overall meetings last season. Play on VEGAS AAA |
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10-10-19 | Golden Knights -135 v. Coyotes | Top | 1-4 | Loss | -135 | 13 h 48 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on VEGAS Before the season, there was a lot of chatter about how good Vegas might be and so far that chatter seems pretty well justified. The Golden Knights opened their season by sweeping a home and home with San Jose. But then they lost on home ice to Boston 4-3 on Tuesday night. That's a good Bruins team though. There won't be too many visitors that strong showing up at T-Mobile Arena this season. Let us not forget that Vegas has gone 54-23-7 in regular season home games during their short existence. But even though tonight's game is on the road, Arizona is not a team they ought to be too concerned about. The Coyotes are 0-2 and have scored only one goal on the season. Improved last season, the 'Yotes may very well take a "step back" this year. Vegas is averaging four goals/game, so it's likely they'll simply have too much offense for the home team to keep up here. Going back to last year, Arizona has lost seven of eight as an underdog. Play on VEGAS AAA |
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10-09-19 | Devils v. Flyers -122 | Top | 0-4 | Win | 100 | 10 h 3 m | Show |
This is a 10* on PHILADELPHIA We haven't seen too much from either the Devils or Flyers on this young season, but we think we've seen enough to take the latter at home tonight. Philadelphia has played just one game so far and it was a 4-3 win over Chicago over in Prague. New Jersey has lost twice, including blowing a 4-0 lead to Winnipeg in the first game. That was followed up by a 7-2 loss to a Buffalo team that last season finished with only 76 points. Of course, the Devils finished with only 72 points and were the last place team in the Metropolitan. It was quite curious (to us) to see how much 'preseason hype' NJ is getting coming off that kind of season. They were projected (by oddsmakers) for 90.5 points, which would be right at the cusp of playoff contention. We just don't see it as the goaltending here remains pretty terrible and Philly got off 38 shots in the win over Chicago. This is the only home that the Flyers get to play between now and October 19th. So they should come out focused and ready to play. New Jersey also has had plenty of rest coming into this game, but they are 0-4 the last four times they've played with three or more days rest. Play on PHILADELPHIA AAA |
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10-08-19 | Sharks v. Predators -159 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 12 h 19 m | Show |
analysis soon |
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10-08-19 | Oilers v. Islanders -155 | Top | 5-2 | Loss | -155 | 11 h 19 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on the ISLANDERS We used Edmonton as our Game of the Week on Saturday. While the Oilers won, they made beating the Kings a lot harder than it should have been. After scoring first, they ended up trailing most of the game. It wasn't until a power play goal with just 6:32 remaining that they took the lead for good and it was a rather ugly effort to boot where they gave up five goals. Tonight they face a team that won't be nearly that generous at the opposite end. The Islanders were the league leaders in fewest goals allowed last year and have given up just three in their first two games of this season. The last one was a 4-1 win over Winnipeg. This will be New York's third straight home game while it's Edmonton's first time playing on the road. Home team won both times these teams met last year. No matter who the Islanders elect to go with in goal, they'll have an edge there in tonight's game. Edmonton is just 18-46 its last 64 games as an underdog. New York has won 16 of its last 21 non-conference games and is 23-8 its last 31 as favorite of -151 to -200. Play on NEW YORK AAA |
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10-07-19 | Blues v. Maple Leafs -125 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -125 | 22 h 23 m | Show |
This is a 10* on TORONTO St. Louis, the defending Stanley Cup Champions, started the season with a disappointing overtime loss to Washington on Opening Night. But they bounced back three days later to defeat Dallas by the same score of 3-2. They are now set to play on the road for the first time against a Toronto team that won its first two games before losing here at home to Montreal Saturday, 6-5. That was a rough loss for the Maple Leafs considering they led 4-1 going into the third period. It wound up going into a shootout and that's when they eventually fell. The Blues rallied with two third period goals to beat Dallas, so they easily could be 0-2 while the Leafs could easily be 3-0 right now. The Montreal game was the second in back to back nights, so maybe that explains Toronto's failure down the stretch. Whatever the reason was, look for them to come out motivated on Monday. This is a bit of a revenge game as they've lost all four games with St. Louis the last two years and 14 of the last 19 home games against them. The Leafs are doing an excellent job getting the puck on the net, averaging 36 shots and 4.7 goals per game. They win here. Play on TORONTO AAA |
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10-05-19 | Kings v. Oilers -150 | Top | 5-6 | Win | 100 | 14 h 32 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on EDMONTON It's the season opener for Los Angeles while Edmonton is playing its second game after beating Vancouver 3-2 on Opening Night. We don't think that's any kind of advantage here for the Kings, and possibly it may prove to be a disadvantage. For starters, this is not a good team. LA finished last in the Pacific a season ago with only 71 points. The only team in the league that finished with fewer points was Ottawa (64). The Oilers have at least gotten a chance to get out on the ice and skate. They looked pretty good in downing the Canucks as they scored three goals on just 22 shots. The most encouraging sign of all was Connor McDavid scoring the game winner. The Kings do not project to be a whole lot better for the 2019-20 season and are an easy fade here. Play on EDMONTON AAA |
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10-03-19 | Panthers v. Lightning -173 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 11 h 9 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on TAMPA BAY Tampa Bay turned in arguably the most dominant regular season ever last year, outscoring opponents by 103 goals and finishing with 125 points. But none of that mattered come playoff time when they were shockingly ousted in the 1st round by Columbus. It's not just that they lost the series either. They got swept! So we expect the Lightning to strike fast here in 2019-2020 and that means two points tonight at the expense of their Floridian rivals, the Panthers. Florida did not make the playoffs last year and should be considered a fringe contender to do so this year. As you may have guessed, the Lightning have dominated this in-state "rivalry." They won all four games last year and have taken seven of the eight meetings over the past two seasons, including all of them at home. The Panthers weren't exactly a good road team either last year as their record was 16-26 away from home. This is a good early season price to take on the Lightning as lines are still soft. Our guess is that a month from now, they'd be -200 or so on the money line against the Panthers. The Lightning were 32-7-2 in regular season home games last year. They won't be losing tonight. Play on TAMPA BAY AAA |
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10-02-19 | Capitals v. Blues -140 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -140 | 30 h 49 m | Show |
This is an 8* Play on ST. LOUIS We like the Blues on Opening Night to win a battle of the last two Stanley Cup Champions. In case you forgot, it was St. Louis hoisting the Cup last June for the first time in franchise history, thus completing one of the most remarkable in-season turnarounds that we have ever seen - in any sport. Right after the New Year, the Blues had the fewest points in the league. They wound up winning it all. A big reason for that stunning turn of events was the play of rookie netminder Jordan Binnington. Now it's a full season of Binnington between the pipes in St. Louis. So we expect there to be little to no drop off for this team this year. For Washington, it very much feels like the 2019-20 season is going to be their last run at a Cup. Alex Ovechkin is under contract for the next two seasons, but both Nicklas Backstrom and goalie Braden Holtby are set to become free agents next summer. In this same position last year, the Capitals delivered a 7-0 win against the Bruins as it was them playing at home watching a banner getting raise. The proverbial skate is on the other foot this time. The Caps have failed to win the last six times they've been ML underdogs. St. Louis won 20 of its last 29 home games to end last season. They start this year with two points. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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06-12-19 | Blues v. Bruins -145 | Top | 4-1 | Loss | -145 | 45 h 59 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on BOSTON St. Louis blew it, plain and simple. They had Boston at home, with a chance to win the Stanley Cup, and instead lost 5-1. Now the Bruins get the winner-take-all Game #7 in their place and we've got them coming away victorious. In some ways, it's a miracle the Blues even got to this point. They had the fewest number of points in the entire league back on January 2nd. But the city of St. Louis will have to wait at least another year to pass around Lord Stanley's Cup for the very first time. The Bruins have outscored the Blues in the series 21-14. They really took over in the third period of Game #6 by scoring four goals. Tuukka Rask has outplayed Jordan Binnington in this series, at least in our opinion. Rask's .938 save percentage in the playoffs is something worth leaning on. While the road team has won four of the previous five games in the series, we can't see the Blues winning for a third straight time in Boston. Not with everything on the line this time. Play on BOSTON AAA |
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06-03-19 | Bruins v. Blues -110 | Top | 2-4 | Win | 100 | 12 h 4 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on ST. LOUIS We look for the Blues to bounce back after their dreadful showing in Game #3. Things quickly got out of hand Saturday night with Boston taking a 3-0 lead in the 1st period. They only escalated from there. Seven Bruins scored. They were 4 for 4 on the power play ... on only four shot attempts. For the first time in his career, rookie Jordan Binnington was chased from the game (he gave up the first five goals). It was basically a worst case scenario for a team hosting its first Stanley Cup Finals game since 1970. We just can't see St. Louis playing any worse and given the resiliency we've seen from them throughout the playoffs, expect them to win in Game #4. Remember the Blues had the fewest points in the league on January 2nd. Now they are three wins away from winning the Stanley Cup. Off a loss this postseason, the Blues are 5-1 with the one loss coming in overtime. No way they lose both games at home, right? Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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06-01-19 | Bruins v. Blues -111 | Top | 7-2 | Loss | -111 | 13 h 40 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on ST. LOUIS The Blues should feel happy that the escaped Boston with a two-game split. Honestly, they probably feel like they could be up 2-0 as Game #1 did see them take an early two-goal advantage. Game #2 went to overtime with Carl Gunnnarsson providing the game-winner on a delayed penalty. Not sure if the extra day of rest benefits either team here, but we like St. Louis to capture Game #3 at home. Sure, Boston is 6-2 on the road this postseason, winning their last four away games. St. Louis has actually not been a dominant home team, though all three prior series were closed out at the Enterprise Center. All things considered, this is a pretty cheap price on the Blues at home too. They are 18-7 their L25 games as a home favorite, so the the odds are in their favor there. With the price coming down, we say grab the Blues. Play ST. LOUIS AAA |
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05-29-19 | Blues v. Bruins -160 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -160 | 12 h 57 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on BOSTON The Bruins stormed back from an early two goal deficit to take Game 1, but the team's 8th straight victory was by no means easy. They didn't take the lead until 5:21 into the third period and the final goal came on an empty net (costing us the Over). But one positive sign is they did outshoot the Blues 38-20. Blowing a two-goal lead on the road is a missed opportunity and it's the kind of advantage St. Louis is quite unlikely to enjoy again. Boston is 11-2 its last 13 games and only three of those wins (two in Round 2 vs. Columbus) have been by less than a two-goal margin. They're on an incredible 21-5 run when off a game where they allowed two or less goals. Rookie goaltender Jordan Binnington has been great for St. Louis, but is likely to be outplayed again by Tuukka Rask, whose save percentage for the playoffs now sits at a remarkable .940. Play on BOSTON AAA |
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05-21-19 | Sharks v. Blues -158 | Top | 1-5 | Win | 100 | 21 h 60 m | Show |
This is a 10* on ST. LOUIS St. Louis has not been a dominant home team in these playoffs by any means. In fact, they are just 4-5 straight up at the Enterprise Center. That's a surprise seeing as they ended the regular season on a 14-2 streak in home games. But what they have done is close out both previous series at home. They'll have a chance to make it 3 for 3 as they host San Jose in Game #6 of the Western Conference Finals Tuesday. The Blues have to be feeling good about themselves right now after taking three of the last four games in this series. Had there not been a missed call in overtime of Game 3, this series might very well already be over. Game #5 was easily the most one sided affair of the series with St. Louis going to San Jose and delivering a 5-0 shutout. Adding injury to insult, the Sharks lost two key players in that game, Tomas Hertl and Joe Pavelski. Erik Karlsson, having suffered an injury in Game 4, also did not finish the last game. All three may not play Tuesday. The loss of Hertl would be particularly costly as he is #3 overall in goals scored this postseason. The Blues are 7-1 SU following the last eight games they scored 5+ goals. They move onto the Stanley Cup Finals. Play on ST LOUIS AAA |
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05-17-19 | Sharks v. Blues -136 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 12 h 49 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on ST. LOUIS We're not sure how long it will take to get over losing Wednesday's Game of the Year play on St. Louis. Certainly, we aren't over it yet. Watching the Blues storm back from a 3-1 deficit to take a 4-3 lead and then give up the game-tying goal late in regulation was tough enough. But the way they lost in overtime was worse and never should have happened. The refs missed a pretty blatant penalty on the Sharks, which led to the game-winning goal. But there's no better way for the Blues (and us) to avenge that defeat than by coming back and winning Game #4, which is again at home. St. Louis has been "left for dead" before. After all, they had the fewest points in the league back on January 2nd. So it would be very "on brand" to see them bounce back with a win tonight. We think they will as San Jose drops to 3-8 its last 11 road games. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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05-15-19 | Sharks v. Blues -140 | Top | 5-4 | Loss | -140 | 29 h 26 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on ST. LOUIS St. Louis did what it needed to do in the first two games and that's win once. Now that they've stolen the home ice advantage away from San Jose, the Blues get the next two games at their rink. While they have not been as dominant at home as you would expect in the playoffs, they did close out each of their first two series at the Enterprise Center. They are 17-6 the last 23 games here and that includes one loss where they were not money line favorites. After poor defensive play essentially "gave away" Game #1, the Blues responded with a very impressive 4-2 win in Game #2. How did they do it? With much better defense. The Sharks simply do not score as many goals on the road as they do at home. In the 10 home playoff games, they have scored 39 goals or an average of 3.9 per game. In six road playoff games, they have scored only 12 goals or an average of 2.0 per game. That's basically a 50% drop in production. Individually, 16 of the combined 22 playoff goals from Logan Couture and Thomas Hertl have been scored in San Jose. In their lone regular season visit to the Gateway City, the Sharks were shut out 4-0. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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05-08-19 | Avalanche v. Sharks -134 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 12 h 24 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on SAN JOSE We backed the home team in last night's Game 7 and will do so again in this one as San Jose hosts Colorado. For the Sharks, the Avalanche have been a lot harder to deal with in this series, then they were in the regular season. San Jose won all three times they played in the regular season, but this series has seen neither side be able to win consecutive games. That bodes well for San Jose though as they LOST Game #6 in Denver, 4-3 in overtime. Of course, this isn't San Jose's first Game 7 of these playoffs. They won in dramatic fashion (overtime) in a Game 7 in Round 1 over Vegas. That came after having to win on the road in Game 6 (a 2 OT game). Home teams have now won 3 of the 4 Game 7's played in the playoffs so far. Colorado is just 3-13 the last 16 times they have been an underdog of +150 or less on the money line. Play on SAN JOSE AAA |
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05-07-19 | Stars v. Blues -130 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 12 h 19 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on ST. LOUIS It's come down to a Game 7 between the Stars and the Blues. It'll be played in St. Louis, which seems like an obvious advantage for the home team, but they're actually just 2-4 SU here in the postseason. But after losing both Games #2 and #5 on home ice (won Game #1), we look for the Blues to win here. We simply believe them to be the better team as Dallas has had an issue scoring all season on the road (29th in the league). The Blues won Game #6 in Dallas, 4-1, and would seem to have some momentum here. Don't discount the impact of the injury suffered by Stars goalie Ben Bishop on Sunday as he had to leave the ice. He'll obviously go in Game #7, but is he at 100% for the biggest game of the year? After the road team took four of the previous five games, it's time for the home team to deliver when it matters most. The Blues have won all three games where they scored at least three goals and we expect them to hit that number tonight. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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05-04-19 | Avalanche v. Sharks -130 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 15 h 30 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on SAN JOSE Time for the Sharks to wrest control of this series for good. They have won Games #1 and #3, only for Colorado to tie the series up with a win in the following games (#2 and #4). But San Jose still has the home ice edge and that's going to be important here in Game #5. The Sharks are 29-18 in all home games this season and they average an impressive 3.7 goals/game at "The Tank," one of the best marks in the league. Colorado is only 20-26 SU on the road. The Sharks were blanked 3-0 in Game 4. Sound familiar? They were also shutout in Game #4 of the last series, losing 5-0 to Vegas. They came back and won the next three games, including a five-goal effort in Game 5. This time the Sharks don't need to win three in a row, just two. In the regular season, San Jose was shutout just four times. They came back and won the next game after three of those four occasions. Play on SAN JOSE AAA |
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05-03-19 | Stars v. Blues -138 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -138 | 14 h 44 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on ST. LOUIS We've had St. Louis in both of their wins in this series and will look to make it 3 for 3 tonight in Game 5. With the series tied up at 2-2, this is a very important game as one of the teams will be put on the brink of elimination for the first time in these playoffs. The Blues have won all four times this postseason they've been tied in a series (This includes both Game 1's.) They have not performed as well as you'd think at home, going just 2-3 SU here in the playoffs. But they've still won 16 of their last 21 games here in the Gateway City. When the opponent gave up two goals or less the last game, St. Louis has gone 22-5 its last 27. Obviously here, they are facing the same team. But the Stars are unlikely to replicate Game 4's four goal effort, just like they were unable to replicate Game 2's 4-goal effort. After all, the regular season saw them score the fourth fewest number of goals. Game 2 was also the last time Dallas allowed two goals or less. They promptly lost Game 3 by a score of 4-3. Look for the Blues to maintain home ice advantage with a big win on Friday. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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05-01-19 | Islanders v. Hurricanes -118 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 11 h 42 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on CAROLINA What a difference one series has made for the Islanders. In the first round, they took the first two games on the road en route to a surprising sweep of the favored Penguins. Now in Round 2, they're down 0-2 to the underdog Hurricanes, having dropped Games #1 and #2 on home ice. Carolina has won four in a row dating back to its first round series with Washington, the last three wins all coming on the road, including a Game 7 win in double overtime. This will be our first time backing either side in the series, though we did win with the Under in Game 1, which was as easy as it gets considering it was a scoreless tie at the end of regulation. The Hurricanes have given up just one goal in the series and now return home where they've yet to lose in the playoffs (3-0). In the three home games vs. the Capitals, they allowed just three goals. The big story for Game 3 is that the Canes will be starting Curtis McElhinney in place of Petr Mrazek in goal due to the latter sustaining a lower body injury. But it hardly matters as Carolina is the better team here and McElhinney posted near identical numbers to Mrazek in the regular season. Play on CAROLINA AAA |
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04-29-19 | Blues +104 v. Stars | Top | 4-3 | Win | 104 | 12 h 21 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on ST. LOUIS The Blues never trailed in Game 1 even though they got off only 20 shots. Now 35-13-4 straight up since January 2nd (when they were last in the division and had the fewest number of points in the league!), we think this team is peaking at the right time. We'd figured they'd take both games at home as they came into Game 2 at 15-4 the L19 times as a home favorite. But alas, they did not. They lost Game 2 by a score of 4-2 and now head back to Dallas needing one win in the next two games to recapture the home ice advantage. We look for them to get that one win tonight. When the opponent gave up two goals or less the last game, St. Louis has gone 21-5 its last 26. Obviously here, they are facing the same team. But the Stars are unlikely to replicate Game 2's four goal effort. After all, the regular season saw them score the fourth fewest number of goals. As you might have guessed, among playoff teams, they easily scored the fewest. We think that inability to score consistently will end up biting them here. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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04-25-19 | Stars v. Blues -150 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 14 h 38 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on ST. LOUIS For the first time under the NHL's current playoff format, all four division winners from the regular season were eliminated in the first round. Dallas is responsible for one of those upsets, beating Central Division champ Nashville in six games. But while Nashville won the Central this year, they weren't the hottest team in the division down the stretch. That would be St. Louis, who is the Stars' second round opponent. The Blues were not only in last place back on January 2nd, they had the fewest number of points in the entire league (34) and had already made a coaching change. But my what a turnaround it has been under Craig Berube as the team has gone 34-12-4 SU since Jan 2nd. The Blues got rid of the Jets in six games and now have home ice advantage for a second round series, something that would have sounded completely ridiculous just three months ago. St. Louis' record as a home favorite is 14-4 the last 18 games and they are 8-2 the L10 home games overall. Though Dallas has won six of the last seven times they've met St. Louis, the home team remains 7-3 the L10 meetings. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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04-24-19 | Hurricanes v. Capitals -145 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -145 | 11 h 16 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on WASHINGTON While Carolina was the call for Game 6, the home team has won every game in this series and we don't see that changing tonight in Game 7. Home teams won both Game 7's last night in the Stanley Cup playoffs with Boston and San Jose each advancing. This series has seen the home team really dominate, including a 6-0 win by the Capitals in Game 5. While each team has tallied 17 goals in the series, scoring has been really lopsided in favor of the home team. Washington has scored a total of 14 goals in the three home games in the series as opposed to just three in Carolina. The Hurricanes have scored just five in the three games here in D.C. and 12 at home. The Hurricanes have lost six in a row as a money line underdog while the Capitals are 6-0 the last six times they have been a money line favorite in the playoffs. The Caps are also 16-5 the last 21x they've been favored on the money line, period. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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04-22-19 | Capitals v. Hurricanes -109 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 20 h 59 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on CAROLINA Our call on Carolina in Game #5 was obviously quite bad. They did outshoot Washington, but the fact that they lost 6-0 makes that rather irrelevant. Now it's do or die time for the Hurricanes as they face elimination. Fortunate for them they'll be back in Raleigh for Game #6. The home team has won every game in this series and we believe that pattern will hold true tonight and thus we're headed for a Game #7 back in Washington. As discussed going into the last game, Carolina has done an effective job at limiting the number of shots by the Capitals in this series. Washington is only averaging 25.6 shots per game. This was a strength of Carolina in the regular season. So was getting the puck on net as they were tops in the league in shots per game themselves. The Caps are just 2-5 SU their last seven games as an underdog. Carolina is 13-3 its last 16 games as a favorite of -110 to -150. They are also 4-1 the last five times following a loss by three or more goals. They held Washington to one goal in the two previous games here. Play on CAROLINA AAA |
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04-20-19 | Hurricanes +122 v. Capitals | Top | 0-6 | Loss | -100 | 12 h 15 m | Show |
This is a 9* play on CAROLINA Carolina has done a great job getting back into this series. So far, the home team has won all four games, but that trend is about to change. The Hurricanes have held the Capitals to an average of just 26.4 shots attempts per game, which is the lowest amount for any team in the playoffs. After cruising to a 5-0 victory in Game #3, the Hurricanes were able to prevail in a tight Game #4, winning 2-1. They did an excellent job defensively the last two games as Washington's lone goal came via the power play. Carolina has dominated the puck, nothing new as they led the league in shots per game during the regular season. We're not convinced the Hurricanes aren't the better team here and they're a great value at 'plus money' for Game #5. Over the last 48 games, they have gone 32-16 while Washington is only 26-22. Play on CAROLINA AAA |
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04-20-19 | Stars v. Predators -140 | Top | 5-3 | Loss | -140 | 7 h 3 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on NASHVILLE Being that they're the home team for Game 5, Nashville needs this one more as they certainly want to avoid the possibility of facing elimination when they go to Dallas for Game 6. Now such a scenario obviously doesn't guarantee victory and the Stars would love to head back home with a chance to close out the series. But we lean towards the Predators in this one as they typically do an admirable job of bouncing back from a blowout loss. They're on a 5-1 streak when coming off a loss where they allowed five or more goals. They've also won four straight times after being beaten by three or more goals. Champions of the Central Division, the Predators are the better team here. They made the mistake of giving up three power play goals in the first period of Game 4, but that won't happen again now that goaltender Pekka Rinne is rested (was pulled early). Dallas only averages 2.3 goals per game on the road. Play on NASHVILLE AAA |
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04-19-19 | Avalanche v. Flames -167 | Top | 5-1 | Loss | -167 | 14 h 15 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on CALGARY Calgary must win to stay alive tonight (down 3-1 in the series) and fortunately they return to home ice where they won Game 1 and are 27-11-5 this season. No team had a higher goals per game average at home this year. The Flames averaged 4.05 goals/game at home in the regular season and basically hit that average in a 4-0 shutout back in Game 1. They have twice blown a third period lead in the last three games. Game 2 was here at home and they allowed the game tying goal late before losing in overtime. Game 4 in Colorado may have been even worse as they had a 2-0 lead with less than 12 minutes remaining, but then gave up two goals and lost again in OT. The Avalanche remain 2-11 their last 13 games as a road underdog of +110 and +150 and we just can't see them beating Calgary four straight times. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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04-17-19 | Flames -110 v. Avalanche | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -110 | 14 h 53 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on CALGARY The Flames are still the better team here despite being down in the series two games to one. We fully expect them to tie up the series tonight before heading back to Calgary for Game 5. After easily taking Game 1 (won 4-0), the Flames lost Game 2 in overtime. That was a tough result considering they were less than three minutes away from taking a 2-0 series lead. But they gave up a late game-tying goal and then the game-winner quickly in OT. While quite potent offensively at home, the Flames are just as stingy defensively when they head out on the road. No team gave up a fewer number of goals as the road team in the regular season. So look for the Flames to "tighten the screws" for Game 4 after being torched for six goals in Game 3. They are still 9-3 the last 12 matchups against Colorado. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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04-16-19 | Sharks v. Golden Knights -149 | Top | 0-5 | Win | 100 | 15 h 40 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on VEGAS Though they did take Game 1 at home, San Jose has kind of fallen apart over the last month. They have achieved victory just 4 times in the last 15 games and have lost Games 2 and 3 to Vegas. In less than two years time, the Golden Knights have achieved one of the league's premier home ice advantages, having gone 61-25-7 SU all-time at T-Mobile Arena, including an 8-3 playoff record. Considering Vegas gives up the third fewest goals in the league at home, it's going to be tough for the Sharks to score here. That they scored three times and lost in Game 3 seems like a potential lost opportunity. Vegas has found the back of the net 11 times in just the last two games and the three top point earners in the playoffs all wear Golden Knights jerseys. That includes Mark Stone who already has six goals in the series! Knights fans are used to seeing plenty of fireworks in home games as the team averages 35.6 shots per game at home, second most in the league. Play on VEGAS AAA |
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04-14-19 | Lightning -135 v. Blue Jackets | Top | 1-3 | Loss | -135 | 11 h 55 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on TAMPA BAY Columbus is up 2-0 in this best of seven series with Tampa Bay and there are no words to describe just how shocking it would be were the Blue Jackets to advance. The Lightning put together one of the all-time great regular seasons, whether you're talking about offense or simply winning. They won 62 games and had 21 more points than the next best team. There were four separate win streaks of at least seven games. They turned in the highest power play percentage in league history (28.1%) and averaged 3.93 goals per game, the most by any team in any season since 1995-96. But since taking a 3-1 lead in Game 1, it has all gone wrong with Columbus outscoring them 9-1. The series now moves to Ohio, but the Lightning can still avoid infamy and we aren't about to count them out. They outscored the Blue Jackets 17-3 in the three regular season meetings and at no point in the regular season did they ever lose three in a row. This is actually just the third time they've dropped two straight. Even without Nikita Kucherov, the Lightning get it done here. Play on TAMPA BAY AAA |
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04-10-19 | Blue Jackets v. Lightning -220 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -220 | 27 h 40 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on Tampa Bay (Game 1) This is obviously the biggest mismatch of the eight first round playoff series and has been priced accordingly. But really, oddsmakers probably can't set the odds high enough. Tampa Bay, coming off a record-setting 62-win regular season, should be considered the overwhelming favorite to lift the Stanley Cup two months from now. The Lightning have set a ridiculous bar, finishing with 21 more points than every other team, which is the largest gap between one team and the field since the 1995-96 Red Wings. They produced four different win streaks of at least seven games, also matching a record set by Gretzky's Oilers in 1983-84. They had the highest power play percentage in league history (28.1%) and averaged 3.93 goals per game, the most by any team since those 95-96 Red Wings. The Lightning also demolished their first round opponent, Columbus, three separate times, beating them 8-2, 4-0 and 5-1. That's a combined 17-3 margin. Game 1 of this best of seven series should not be close nor should this series. Play on TAMPA BAY AAA |
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04-06-19 | Oilers +155 v. Flames | Top | 3-1 | Win | 155 | 12 h 1 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on EDMONTON An underdog play here as Edmonton will look to end another disappointing season on a high note. The Oilers have two 100-point scorers, Conor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, but little else to boast about from 2018-19. They are set to finish well below expectations set and this comes on the heels of last year's substantial decline in points when they went from 103 points (2016-17) to 78. But the "Battle of Alberta" vs. rival Calgary should have them plenty motivated. The Flames have won the Pacific Division and will be the top seed in the Western Conference for the first time in 30 years. So they're thinking more about the playoffs and not this game. They've been resting key players recently. So this edition of the rivalry will mean far more to the Oilers. Play on EDMONTON AAA |
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04-04-19 | Sharks -141 v. Oilers | Top | 3-2 | Win | 100 | 13 h 47 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on SAN JOSE The Sharks are going to the playoffs, but it's certainly a case of "limping in" as they've dropped 9 of 10 (1-8-1) and you'd have to go all the way back to March 12th to find the last time they won a game in regulation. At that time, everything was looking great. They were on a six-game win streak, their second six game win streak since the All Star Break. But things have definitely hit the skids recently and a win over a non-playoff team like Edmonton would definitely go a "long way" here. The Oilers are having another disappointing season. Despite two 100+ point scorers, they have just 77 points and they too have played poorly of late. It's four straight losses coming into tonight and they've gotten outscored 17-6. This is the final home game of the season in Edmonton, but they may be more interested in Saturday's game at rival Calgary. Or maybe the Oilers have simply "packed it in" and will roll over for the Sharks. Either way, expect this to be a pretty easy two points for the road team, who is 3-0 vs. Edmonton since Christmas scoring 5, 7 and 7 goals in the three wins. Play on SAN JOSE AAA |
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04-04-19 | Jets v. Avalanche -113 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 13 h 47 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on COLORADO One playoff spot is still up for grabs in the NHL's Western Conference. It is very likely that Colorado will grab it. All they need to do is win one of their final two games. Clinching at home would probably be pretty sweet for a team that has not made the playoffs in back to back seasons for 13 years. The Avalanche are playing well right now with wins in seven of their last nine contests. Both losses came in extra time while all but one win was in regulation. Winnipeg has been trending in a different direction with five losses in the past seven games, all of them coming in regulation. The Jets now could finish as low as third in the Central Division depending on how Nashville and St. Louis each finish. Denver seems to be an unlikely destination for a turnaround considering five of the last six times they've come here, Winnipeg has lost. They lost by a score of 7-1 here in February and are off 5-1 loss to Minnesota Tuesday. Colorado won its last game 6-2 and is simply in better form right now. Play on COLORADO AAA |
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04-02-19 | Bruins v. Blue Jackets -140 | Top | 6-2 | Loss | -140 | 11 h 55 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on COLUMBUS Tonight is the Blue Jackets final home game of the regular season, but the faithful in Columbus are certainly hoping its not the final home game of the year. Right now, the Blue Jackets sit in the top Wild Card spot with 94 points, but have two teams (Carolina, Montreal) within two points and only two of those three can make it to the playoffs. Columbus is certainly doing its best to ensure there will be more games played here in Ohio's state capital as they've won five in a row with three of those wins coming in shutout fashion. Goalie Sergei Bobrovsky has a .957 save percentage his last 11 starts and a 38-save shutout of Buffalo on Sunday was his league-leading ninth of the season. With the final two games of the year at Ottawa and New York (Rangers), we see Columbus as having an excellent shot at making the playoffs. But they want that top Wild Card spot as it will allow them to avoid facing the juggernaut known as Tampa Bay in Round 1. Boston doesn't really have anything left to play for except formally clinching home ice advantage for their Round 1 series against Toronto. But that's pretty much a formality at this point anyway. The Bruins have allowed 10 goals in their last two games, which is two more than Columbus has allowed in its last six games. Play on COLUMBUS AAA |
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03-31-19 | Bruins -200 v. Red Wings | Top | 3-6 | Loss | -200 | 11 h 55 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on BOSTON Despite them already being safely in the playoffs, don't expect Boston to take last night's 4-1 loss to Florida "lying down." This is because, among other reasons, the Bruins would also like to lock down home ice advantage for their upcoming 1st round series with Toronto. (They did catch a major break last night with Toronto losing at Ottawa). Yesterday's loss was a rarity as it snapped the B's 12-game win streak at home and was the first time all season they lost an afternoon game on regulation (7-0-1 previously). But they are still 20-5-4 their last 29 games overall. The next three are all on the road and though Detroit has won four in a row overall and two straight over the Bruins, this one shapes up to be the easiest. One positive for the road team is they are 8-1 this season following a game where they were held to 1 goal or less. The Red Wings last game was a 4-0 win over New Jersey, just their 2nd shutout of the season. The previous won came back on February 2nd against another bad team (Ottawa) and the Wings promptly followed that up by losing their next game (at home). History repeats itself here. Play on BOSTON AAA |
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03-29-19 | Blues -205 v. Rangers | Top | 2-4 | Loss | -205 | 11 h 16 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on ST. LOUIS Should be an easy two points tonight for the Blues, who could find themselves tied for second place in the Central Division if all breaks right for them tonight. First they need to beat the Rangers, which seems likely given the current state of their opponent. New York has won just once in its last eight games with five of the seven losses coming by three goals or more. At this point, the Rangers are just looking forward to summer vacation as they've been out of contention for some time. St. Louis is on a four-game win streak and has played as well as any team in the league in the second half. They are 34-17-5 since Craig Berube took over behind the bench, including a 20-5-3 record their past 28 games. Making life even easier is that the Blues have been off since Monday. They are already 5-2 this season when playing with three or more days rest. The team is 55-14 their past 69 games as a favorite of -201 or higher, so laying the juice is certainly justified in this particular instance. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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03-28-19 | Canadiens v. Blue Jackets -145 | Top | 2-6 | Win | 100 | 8 h 2 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on COLUMBUS There's a lot on the line here. These two teams are vying against one another for the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference. Right now, Montreal has a two point edge over Columbus. That could obviously go away after tonight and we think it will. The Blue Jackets do have two more regulation + OT wins this season compared to the Canadiens. They are also coming off two straight shutouts where they outscored the Canucks and Islanders 9-0. Montreal just beat Florida 6-1, but that was at home and they haven't had to play many road games recently. The Habs have lost 4 of 5 on the road, getting oustcored by a 2:1 margin. While 2-0 against Columbus in the current season, they're not the more talented team here. Blue Jackets goalie Sergei Bobrovsky actually now leads the league with eight shutouts. He'll obviously be the one in goal tonight and may very well be the difference maker in a game his team must have. Play on COLUMBUS AAA |
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03-27-19 | Stars v. Flames -155 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -155 | 11 h 59 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on CALGARY Calgary has already clinched a playoff berth and now is trying to lock down a division title. They've got a six-point edge over ice cold San Jose and considering how the Sharks have looked of late, the Flames finishing first might be a formality at this point. But don't expect the home team to take this game lightly as they just lost 3-0 to the last place Kings on Monday. That game saw them finish with a 42-20 edge in shots, so that makes the final score even more disappointing. Dallas badly needs a win here too as they are trying to lock down at least a Wild Card spot. But Calgary has gone 25-8-5 at home and will be taking the ice with double revenge for two losses that occurred early in the season. In other words, any hopes the Stars had of Calgary not taking this game serious are false. Considering they just went 1-4 on a recent home stand, the likelihood of Dallas winning back to back games in Western Canada seem remote. They win in Winnipeg Monday, but not here. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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03-25-19 | Penguins -198 v. Rangers | Top | 5-2 | Win | 100 | 11 h 30 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on PITTSBURGH The Penguins are not only trying to make the playoffs, they're going for a division title. There's a wide range of outcomes for where they can actually land in terms of playoff position, but the concern is winning the Metropolitan. They're three points back of Washington entering play tonight and can tie the second place Islanders with a win here. (Both Washington and NY won Sunday). Winning tonight should not be difficult as the Pens play the Rangers. The Blueshirts are officially eliminated from contention and figure to "mail this one in" after a surprising overtime win in Toronto on Saturday. The last time New York won back to back games was back before the All Star Break. Since then, they are 0-7 SU off a win and have dropped 18 of 26 games overall. Pittsburgh is 13-4-4 its last 21 games. While many of the wins have been close, you have to like the way goalie Matt Murray has played of late. He is 7-2-2 his last 11 starts, posting a 2.08 goals against average and .939 save percentage. Throw in the Penguins offensive firepower (3.34 goals per game) and we're not sure how the Rangers stand a chance here. They've already lost two meetings to Pittsburgh earlier this year, giving up 13 goals in the process. The Penguins are 10-4 the last 14 meetings. Play on PITTSBURGH AAA |
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03-24-19 | Blue Jackets -155 v. Canucks | Top | 5-0 | Win | 100 | 13 h 41 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on COLUMBUS We played against Vancouver last night and they lost here at home to Calgary by a score of 3-1. The opponent isn't quite as strong Sunday night, but they are more desperate. Columbus is on the outside looking in when it comes to the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference. They need two points just to keep pace w/ Montreal, who holds the final Wild Card spot and is three points ahead. The Blue Jackets have done themselves no favors recently by losing three in a row. But that losing streak should end tonight as the Canucks are without rest and motivation. Losses at both Boston and Calgary were excusable for C-bus, but the 4-1 loss they suffered at Edmonton Thursday night was not. Fortunately, the Jackets are 16-7 coming off a multi-goal loss this year. An offense that has averaged only 2.08 goals per game since the trade deadline really needs to get going. It should here against a Vancouver team that is below average defensively. The Blue Jackets have revenge here too as they lost at home to the Canucks back in December. A good spot for the road team to get back on track. Play on COLUMBUS AAA |
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03-23-19 | Flames -175 v. Canucks | Top | 3-1 | Win | 100 | 11 h 12 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on CALGARY Vancouver has won three in a row, but that comes with a bit of a caveat considering two of the wins were against Chicago and Ottawa. It's a much stiffer test tonight against Calgary and while it comes at home, we don't see the Canucks as being up for the challenge. The division leading Flames have gotten a gift in the form of San Jose losing five straight, thus it's now a four point lead in the Pacific. Getting two more points tonight would be huge as there's only seven games left to play in the regular season. The Flames have also helped themselves by winning five of six and they've done plenty of scoring with 30 goals in that stretch. Vancouver scored seven times in its win over Ottawa on Wednesday night (Calgary's last opponent was also Ottawa and they scored five goals). But as we said at the open, this is a much tougher opponent. Calgary is tied for the second fewest number of goals allowed on the road this season. The Canucks' recent play just isn't indicative of the kind of season they're having while it's been "par for the course" with the Flames. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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03-22-19 | Wild v. Capitals -163 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -163 | 8 h 49 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on WASHINGTON Washington has lost only three of its last 12 games and two of the losses were to Tampa Bay. The Lightning just got them here in D.C. Wednesday, winning a 5-4 decision in overtime. That game saw the Capitals outshoot TB 58-28, which is the kind of effort that typically results in victory. On the bright side, the Caps were able to at least earn a point and stay in front in the Metropolitan. Tonight's opponent is Minnesota, who is just trying to sneak into the playoffs over in the Western Conference. But the Wild have failed to help themselves lately, losing five of their last six games and seven of the last nine. Still, they're only one point back of the Wild Card, but a -17 goal differential tell us that this team is "not ready for primetime," let alone the Capitals. The Wild have not scored more than two goals in any of their last five losses. Washington is 24-11 SU against teams with losing records this season (Wild are 34-31-9) and not only are they 9-2 SU the L11 head to head meetings, they've won five straight at home over Minnesota. Home team gets the two points. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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03-20-19 | Jets -150 v. Ducks | Top | 3-0 | Win | 100 | 14 h 1 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on WINNIPEG Winnipeg is fighting for first place in the Central Division. Anaheim is a bottom tier team. Who would you choose? The last time these teams played, the Jets won 9-3. While that game took place up in Manitoba, this one won't be much closer. Yes, the Ducks have won six of their last nine games and two straight. Some of those wins have even come against playoff contenders. One was against Nashville, which helped out Winnipeg. But tonight finds Anaheim trying to do something they have not accomplished in three months. That would be win a third straight game. The Jets happen to be on a three-game win streak rignht now and they are 23-14 this season when facing a team that has a losing record. Play on WINNIPEG AAA |
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03-18-19 | Jets -170 v. Kings | Top | 3-2 | Win | 100 | 15 h 46 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on WINNIPEG A complete mismatch here as the Jets invade LA to play the Kings. One team is fighting for a division title while the other is a total non-contender that has been at the bottom of the standings all year. Winnipeg is obviously the former as they can increase their lead in the Central to three points over Nashville with a win here. It's a win that should come pretty easily considering Los Angeles has won only two games since February 7th. In their last four home games, the Kings have been outscored 14-5. No team has scored fewer goals or been outscored by a larger margin. Winnipeg is off back to back impressive wins as they beat Boston and San Jose. The next three games will all be on the road before hosting Nashville in a huge Central Division showdown. This one and the next game (at Anaheim) should be an easy four points. We really like the Jets tonight. Play on WINNIPEG AAA |