9* PERSONAL FAVORITE on Nashville Predators. Boston comes in off a 3-0 win over Philadelphia, while the Predators come in off a 3-2 shootout victory over Anaheim. Boston ranks just 25th in the NHL in scoring with a average of 2.71 GPG, while ranked ninth on the defensive side by allowing 2.79. Goaltender Tuukka Rask is 5-10 with a 2.65 GAA this year (Boston is just 5-6 on the road.) Nashville averages 3.04 GPG and allows 2.81. Goaltender Pekka Rinne is 15-6 with a 2.35 GAA, including 10-2 with a 2.52 GAA at home (The Predators are 10-3 in front of the home town crowd this year.) The home team has won 16 of the last 21 in this series and I think it offers great value in this spot once again. Lay the price, Predators roll.

10* PERSONAL FAVORITE on Winnipeg Jets. Ottawa comes in off a 6-5 road win over the Islanders and suffice it to say, I’m expecting an immediate return to mediocrity in this one. Winnipeg enters off a 7-4 home victory over Vegas. Ottawa’s victory over the Islanders snapped a seven game slide. The Senators average 3.04 GPG, while allowing 3.21. Goaltender Craig Anderson is 7-11 with a 3.15 GAA this season. Winnipeg averages 3.38 GPG and allows 2.73. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck is 14-5 with a 2.43 GAA overall, including going 9-1 with a 2.39 GAA at home (note that he’s 2-0 with a 2.00 GAA lifetime against Ottawa.) With two nights off before a game at Anaheim, I think the visitors stumble again here. The Jets also have two nights off before a three game road trip and are 9-2-1-0 overall in front of the home town crowd. I expect Winnipeg to come in focused and to take full advantage of this situation. Lay the price, Jets roll.

8* play on the Washington Capitals. Columbus has a “cream puff” at home on Friday night agains the Ducks, while Washington will be looking to return to the winners circle after falling 5-2 at home to the Kings. Columbus averages just 2.73 GPG, but makes up for it on the defensive end by allowing only 2.36. Backup goaltender Joonas Korpisalo is 2-3 with a 2.97 GAA and just 1-2 with a 3.67 GAA on the road. Washington averages 2.85 GPG, while allowing 3.08. Goaltender Braden Holtby is 13-6 with a 2.61 GAA overall, while going 7-4 with a 1.99 GAA at home. I like Holtby to outduel his counterpart and for the Jackets to come in with “heavy legs” in the second game of the back to back. Lay the price, Capitals roll.

8* play on the Philadelphia Flyers. Boston comes in off a 3-2 home win over Tampa Bay, while Philadelphia enters off a 3-1 home loss to San Jose. Boston averages just 2.70 GPG, while allowing 2.91. Goaltender Tuukka Rask is just 4-10 with a 2.84 GAA and 0-4 with a 3.40 GAA on the road. Philadelphia averages 2.80 GPG, while allowing 3.04. Philadelphia comes in off a 3-1 loss to San Jose and it’s now lost nine in a row. Goaltender Brian Elliot is 6-11 with a 2.96 GAA overall this season and 3-2 with a 2.95 GAA at home. With a tough Western road swing starting on Sunday, I think the Flyers risk life and limb tonight. And with a tough game at Nashville on Monday, all signs point to a look ahead spot for the Bruins. All things considered, a decent price. Play on Philadelphia.

6* BM BLOWOUT on the Winnipeg Jets. Vegas is a good team, but it played a tough game in Minnesota just last night. Las Vegas went into Friday night at 6-5 on the road. Winnipeg is 8-2-1 at home. It also plays with revenge here after falling 5-2 in Vegas back on November 10th. The Jets have lost two of their last three and will be eager to step up, take advantage of this favorable spot, while also avenging the earlier loss. When you add it all up, the situational factors working in favor of the home side today make this a price that I can live with paying. Play on the Jets.

10* PERSONAL FAVORITE on New York Islanders. The Sens come to town off a 2-1 loss at Montreal, while the Isles smashed Vancouver 5-2 in their most recent action. Ottawa is in a tail spin, coming into this one having lost seven in a row. Goaltender Craig Anderson is 7-11 with a 2.95 GAA. So far the Sens average 2.91 GPG, while ranked 25th on the defensive side in conceding 3.13. New York averages 3.67 GPG (ranked 1st) and allows 3.13 GPG. Thomas Greiss is 8-4 with a 3.34 GAA and 4-2 with a 2.95 GAA at home. The Sens are ice cold, scoring just nine goals total over their last seven games. The Isles lead the league in scoring, but have been “lights out” of late offensively, averaging a whopping 4.60 GPG at home this season. This line could easily be a lot larger in my opinion. Lay the price, Islanders roll.

10* PERSONAL FAVORITE on Edmonton Oilers. The Leafs have lost three of their last five. The Oilers have won three of their last four. These two teams are moving in opposite directions right now and I think that trend carries over here. The Leafs do come in off a satisfying 4-1 win in Calgary though. Edmonton comes in off back-to-back victories, winning 4-2 at Boston, before then avoiding a potential trap with a 3-2 OT win over Arizona in its first game back home. With a tough one at Calgary on Saturday night, I expect the home side to take advantage of this suddently inconsistent Toronto team. Great value, play on the Oilers.

8* play on the Chicago Blackhawks. This is the first game of a home and home set. Dallas enters off a 3-0 road win at Vegas, while Chicago fell 3-2 at Nashville in its latest action. The Stars are ranked 14th in the league in scoring with 2.92 GPG, while ranked eighth on the defensive side by allowing 2.83. Ben Bishop scored the shutout in Vegas last time out and so far he’s been solid at 11-7 with a 2.61 GAA. Chicago led the West last season, so it can’t be happy sitting at 12-12 so far this year. The Hawks come in ranked ninth on the offensive end with an average of 3.17 GPG, while ranked fifth in goals allowed by giving up just 2.63 per contest. Corey Crawford is 11-8 with a 2.21 GAA so far this year, including 6-4 with a 2.28 GAA at home. Dallas is 9-2 at home and just 4-9 on the road. After scoring a rare win away from friendly confines last time out, I look for the Stars to stumble again here. Lay the price, Hawks roll.

8* play on the Minnesota Wild. Vegas enters off a 3-0 home loss to Dallas, while Minnesota comes in off a 7-2 loss at Winnipeg. Vegas ranks third in the leauge in scoring at 3.52 GPG, while ranked 14th in goals allowed with 3.00. Maxime Legace is expected in net for the visitors, he’s 5-6 with a 3.66 GAA on the year and 3-6 with an .858 save percentage on the road. Minnesota has been struggling of late defensively, allowing 13 goals over its last two games. Overall the team is ranked 13th in scoring with 2.96 GPG, while ranked 21st on the defensive side by allowing 3.04. Goaltender Devan Dubnyk is 9-9 with a 2.85 GAA, including going 5-4 with a 2.57 GAA at home. The Knights have allowed 3.33 GPG on the road this year and with a game tomorrow night in Winnipeg, it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors also getting caught looking ahead. I think Dubnyk bounces back here and outduels his inconsistent counterpart. Lay the price, Wild roll.

8* VIOLATOR on Chicago Blackhawks. The Blackhawks smashed the Ducks 7-3 last night and I like the team to carry that momentum over on the road here. These teams have split their first two games this season, both were in Chicago. The Blackhawks continue to get big production from center Jonathan Toews, who now has eight points in his last seven games. The Predators return home off a 4-3 shootout loss at Carolina, a setback which snapped a four-game win streak. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting another letdown here as well. Note that this is a revenge game as well for Chicago after it fell 2-1 to the Preds back on October 27th. I think the Hawks offer great value in this revenge spot. Play on Chicago.

 6* BM BLOWOUT on the New York Islanders. After back-to-back road wins over Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to open their road trip, the Canucks come into this one having dropped two straight, most recently a 4-3 shootout loss on the road to the Rangers. The Isles enter this one off a 2-1 road win over the Senators. Vancouver averages 2.75 GPG and allows 2.75 as well. Clearly the margin for error is pretty thin for the Canucks. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom is 6-11 with a 2.63 GAA this year (note that he’s just 1-3 with a 3.37 GAA lifetime against the Islanders.) New York averages 3.61 GPG and allows 3.17. Goaltender Thomas Greiss is now 8-4 with a 3.34 GAA (he’s 2-2 with a 3.23 GAA lifetime against Vancouver.) New York is 7-2 at home this season and while Vancouver has done better than almost anyone could have predicted to open the young season, the wheels do now seem to be falling off the bus on this extended road trip. I think both these strong trends carry over here, making the Islanders well worth the price of admission in this spot. Lay the price, New York rolls.

8* ANNIHILATOR on the New York Rangers. Vancouver comes in off a 3-2 loss at New Jersey, while the Rangers are off a 2-1 OT win at home over Detroit. Vancouver would win its first two games of its Eastern road swing, but it would come up short in New Jersey. I’m expecting another letdown here. The Canucks average just 2.74 GPG, while allowing 2.74 as well. The Rangers average 3.22 GPG and allow 2.96. Goaltender Henrik Lundqvist has turned things around after a slow start and he owns a lifetime 2.20 GAA against Vancouver. The Canucks are a brutal 16-41 in their last 57 when playing on one days rest. Lay the price, Rangers roll.

6* BM BEATDOWN on San Jose Sharks. Both teams come in off games just last night, with Winnipeg taking a highly satisfying 4-1 win at Anaheim, while San Jose comes off a frustrating 5-4 OT setback at Las Vegas. Both teams are going to be tired tonight. But one team slept in its own bed last night and the other in its hotel. The Sharks are angry and hungry, while the Jets are happy and content. These are exactly the types of situations that I keep my eyes open for an in my opinion, this line could easily be a lot a larger. Value swings to the home side. play on San Jose.

8* play on the New Jersey Devils. New Jersey has taken down points in six of its last seven, but overall it’s lost three of its last seven and four of its last eight in either OT or the shootout. Most recently New Jersey comes in off a shootout loss to Boston. The Canucks are 11-8-3 on the year and come in off back-to-back 5-2 road victories over Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Can anyone say “letdown spot?” The Devils actually outshot the Bruins 15-5 in the third period Wednesday to come back from a goal down, only to then fall 3-2 in an 11-round shootout. So not only do I think that the Devils are clearly the “hungrier” team today, but I’ll also point out that New Jersey goaltender Cory Schneider is 5-1-2 against his former club. I’m banking on Schneider once again coming up big tonight. All things considered, this is a great price. Devils roll.

8* play on the Edmonton Oilers. Buffalo will obviously be hungry to snap a seven-game slide tonight, most recently falling at home to Minnesota. The Oilers can empahthize though and won’t be having any mercy on their lowly opponent today as they just finished snapping a three-game slide with a win at Detroit. Oilers’ star Connor McDavid has come on fire of late, posting nine of his team-leading 28 points over the last five games alone. Also note that Edmonton is starting to get more balanced scoring finally, as it got three goals from its bottom six forwards in Wednesday’s win. Buffalo has lost seven straight and it’s posted just one marker in four of those outings. Clearly the Sabres are desperate to break the slide. The only problem is, after a miserable start to their own 2017/18 campaign, there’s no way the Oilers are going to “look past” their lowly opponent today. These teams are moving in opposite directions and I look for the trend to continue here. Lay the price, Oilers roll.

8* play on the Philadelphia Flyers. This is the second game of a home and home set, with New York taking the first one by a score of 4-3 in OT. New York looks primed for a letdown here in my opinion though after winning four of its last five. The Isles enter ranked second in the league in scoring with 3.62 GPG, while ranked 24th by conceding 3.24. Thomas Greiss got the win in the first game and so far he’s 7-4 with a 3.29 GAA. Philadelphia averages 2.77 GPG and concedes 2.86. Goaltender Brian Elliot is 6-9 with a 2.71 GAA (2.69 GAA at home.) One team is satisfied and content, the other is hungry and revenge minded. Note that the Isles are just 6-20 in their last 26 trips to Philadelphia. Expect that trend to continue tonight, Flyers roll. 

8* play on Columbus Blue Jackets. Calgary comes in off a satisfying 4-1 road win over Washington, while Columbus returns home off a 3-2 road win at Buffalo. I think Calgary has a letdown here. It’s won seven of its last nine and taking down the Capitals in their own building is quite the accomplishment. So far the Flames average 3.00 GPG and allow 3.15. Columbus averages 2.87 GPG and allows just 2.48 Columbus has been getting exceptional play from Sergei Bobrovsky between the pipes and he’s 5-4 with a 2.17 GAA lifetime against Calgary. As mentioned off the top, the conditions are right for a letdown for the Flames. All things considered, a very fair price. Blue Jackets roll.

8* play on the Washington Capitals. Washington has been scuffling of late, losing three of its last four, including a listless 4-1 effort at home to the Flames last time out. And with upcoming games against Tampa Bay, Toronto, LA and Columbus, this becomes an almost “must win” scenario for the Capitals in my opinion. Ottawa can empathize, it’s lost three straight, most recently a 3-0 setback at the Rangers. The Sens face another tough one in Columbus on Friday night as well. These teams are pretty evenly matched right now, but I don’t think that the home ice advantage can be overlooked as a very real factor in this matchup. All things considered, a fair price. Capitals roll.

8* ANNIHILATOR on the Philadelphia Flyers. The Canucks hit the road for a tough Eastern road game in Philadelphia off a 4-3 OT loss at home to St. Louis. Philadelphia is also off an OT loss, falling 5-4 to Calgary at home. After starting the year 6-4, the Canucks have predictably come crashing back down to Earth. A lack of talent will do that to a team. So far the Canucks average just 2.55 GPG, while allowing 2.80. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom is 5-9 with a 2.63 GAA. Philadelphia averages 2.80 GPG and allows 2.70. Netminder Brian Elliot is 6-8 with a 2.70 GAA on the season. Elliot catches a break facing the Canucks anemic offense though, which comes in having posted just 2.10 GPG over its last ten games. Elliot owns a 1.93 GAA lifetime against Vancouver, so lay the price with confidence on this one.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Nashville Predators. Nashville is rolling right now, it’s won six of its last seven, including a convincing 5-2 home win against Colorado last time out. With a game at home against lowly Montreal on Wednesday, there’s no reason for the Predators to “look past” their opponent today. Winnipeg has won four straight, including three in a row at home, but I think the Jets have a letdown here in the opener of this four four game US road-swing which sees them at LA, Anaheim and San Jose respectively. Winnipeg is 5-2 on the road, but Nashville is an almost perfect 6-1 at home. No upsets today, lay the very reasonable price as the Predators roll to victory.

8* ANNIHILATOR on the LA Kings. The Kings come in off a relatively simple 4-0 win over the Panthers at home yesterday (I had LA in that one) and I’m expecting them to carry that momentum over here. Vegas returns home after a 5-2 win at Vancouver. LA will turn to Jonathan Quick in net and he’s so far 9-8 with a 2.13 GAA on the year, including 5-2 with a 2.11 GAA on the road. The Kings average 3.00 GPG and allow just 2.42, ranked second in the league. The Knights average 3.62 GPG and allow 2.85. Malcolm Subban is expected to get the call in net for this one and he’s 2-0 with a 2.06 GAA on the year. Vegas is 7-1 at home, but I think it’s set up for a letdown here against an LA team that comes in off a solid win. I also expect the veteran Quick to outduel his counterpart between the pipes. In my opinion, the value is on the visitors. Kings roll.

10* PERSONAL FAVORITE on San Sharks. Boston comes in off a 2-1 win at LA on Thursday, but I think it’s going to have a letdown here in the finale of its Western swing. The Sharks were blanked at home by the Panthers 2-0 on Thursday, which was a bit odd as they’d won two straight and six of their previous seven coming into that one. So far Boston averages just 2.7 GPG, while allowing 3.1. San Jose averages 2.5 GPG and allows just 2.2 (ranked 1st.) Martin Jones has been fantastic overall this season in net for the Sharks and I’m expecting a return to the norm on Saturday. This is Boston’s third game in four nights, which doesn’t bode well in facing off against a determined Sharks team which is currently the No. 1 defensive club in the league. All things considered a very fair price. Sharks roll.

8* play on the LA Kings. Simply put, Florida looks ready for a letdown here in my opinion afer it’s big 2-0 road win in San Jose. On the flip side, LA will be out to atone for a rather listless 2-1 home loss to Boston. The Panthers enter ninth in scoring with 3.22 GPG, but ranked 30th in goals allowed with 3.56. Roberto Luongo is 4-4 with a 2.74 GAA on the year. The Kings average 3.00 GPG and allow just 2.42 (ranked second). Goaltender Jonathon Quick is 9-7 with a 2.31 GAA on the season. LA is the “hungrier” team here, as it’s last four in a row. The Panthers are a poor road team and come in contented off the upset victory. All things considered, a very fair price. Kings roll.

8* play on the Dallas Stars. Edmonton comes in off a deflating 4-1 home loss to St. Louis. Dallas is off an even worse 6-1 setback at Tampa Bay. Edmonton is not the same team it was last year, avearging just 2.47 GPG, ranked 29th overall. The Oilers have also been pretty poor defensively, ranked 15th by allowing 3.00 GPG. Goaltender Cam Talbot is 7-10 with a 2.92 GAA this year. The Stars average 2.74 GPG and allow 3.00. Goaltender Ben Bishop is 7-6 with a 2.91 GAA thus far. I think the Oilers struggle in the opener of this extended trip though, while Dallas plays with revenge after falling to Edmonton 5-4 back on October 26th. All things considered, a very fair price. Stars roll.

10* PERSONAL FAVORITE on the Columbus Blue Jackets. New York comes to town off a 6-3 road loss in Chicago (I had the Hawks in that one), while Columbus enters off a 2-1 win at Montreal. I think the Rangers are poised for another letdown. New York went to Chicago on a six-game win streak, but the Rangers ran out of steam in the third period. So far New York averages 3.32 GPG and allows 3.37. Rangers’ goaltender Henrik Lundqvist is 8-7 with a 3.04 GAA this season. Columbus averages 2.89 GPG and allows 2.63. Jackets’ netminder Sergei Bobrovsky is 10-5 with a 2.16 GAA and I believe he’s going to be a difference maker in this matchup. Lundqvist is 2-2 with a 3.88 GAA on the road this season, while Bobrovsky is 5-3 with a 1.86 GAA at home. Lay the price, Blue Jackets roll.

10* PERSONAL FAVORITE on the San Jose Sharks. San Jose is on a roll right now and I look for that momentum to get carried over here against the inconsistent Panthers. The Sharks most recently beat LA, while Florida comes in on the other end of the spectrum, having lost six of its last eight. The Panthers do come in off a hard-fought 4-3 shootout victory over the Stars, but despite that though Florida still ranks 30th in the NHL in goals-against per game (3.76.) Conversely, San Jose ranks No. 1 in the league on the defensive side by allowing only 2.25 GPG. It’s a daunting West coast trip for Florida, with games at LA and Anaheim up next. I believe the visitors get caught flat-footed while looking ahead and I expect the Sharks to take advantage. This line could easily be larger. Lay the price, San Jose rolls.

8* PERSONAL FAVORITE on Chicago Blackhawks. The Blackhawks clearly won’t be lacking in motivation today. Chicago comes in having lost three of its last four, most recently a tough 7-5 setback at home to New Jersey. And with a tough road trip starting on Saturday in Pittsburgh, this really has become an almost “must win” for the Hawks early on in the season here. Conversely, I feel the Rangers are poised for a letdown after six straight victories, including three straight at home. And with a tough game in Columbus on Friday night, it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors also getting caught looking ahead. In my estimation, this line could easily be a lot larger. Great value, Hawks roll.

6* ANNIHILATOR on the LA Kings. The Canucks kicked off their road trip with a victory against the Flames, but they’ve since dropped back-to-back games to the Sharks and Ducks (by a combined 9-1 margin.) Canucks netminder Jacob Markstrom has a poor 3.35 GAA on this road trip so far and in four lifetime starts against LA he’s 0-2-2 with a 3.16 GAA. Vancouver has been particuarly inept on the power play, going 3 for 25 with the man advantage over their last seven games. The Kings are already in desperation mode, as they’ll be looking to avoid their fourth loss in five games. Most recently LA fell 2-1 in San Jose on Sunday. The difference maker tonight for me though and what makes the Kings worth the price of admission in this spot is netminder Jon Quick, who is 4-1-0 with two shutouts and a 0.99 GAA in his last five vs. the Canucks. Lay the price, Kings roll.

6* BM BLOWOUT on the Edmonton Oilers. After their blistering start to the year, a lengthy road trip brought the Vegas Golden Knights back to Earth as they head into Edmonton. The Oilers started the year off slowly and have continued to struggle. But here’s the perfect opponent to get untracked against. The Golden Knights are coming off a 5-2 win at home over Winnipeg, but they went just 1-6 on their seven-game road trip. The Oilers will be especially motivated here after their frustrating 2-1 OT loss to the Capitals in their latest action. No more excuses for the Oilers as they return home from their 2-2 road trip and look to make the most of it. Lay the price with confidence as Edmonton rolls to victory.

6* ANNIHILATOR on Chicago Blackhawks. A great common sense play makes this a price I can live with. Both teams come in off wins just last night. New Jersey knocked off the Panthers 2-1 at home to cap a three game home stand. With three whole nights off before a game in Toronto on Thursday, it’s not too hard to imagine the Devils getting caught looking ahead here as well. The Blackhawks rallied from an early deficit to win 4-3 in OT in Carolina last night, snapping a two game losing streak. With two nights off before a game at New York, there’s no reason for Chicago to be looking past New Jersey today whatsoever. It’s a golden opportunity for the Blackhawks in my opinion and one which I foresee them taking full advantage of. Lay the price, Chicago rolls.

8* BM BLOWOUT on the St. Louis Blues. A great spot bet. New York is in Dallas on Friday and will clearly be “gassed” in the second game of the back-to-back. St. Louis got the better of Arizona 3-2 in a shootout last time out and has to be feeling confident here, because when the Blues faced New York last month, they skated away with the 3-2 shootout victory. Note as well that the Isles are allowing an average of 3.1 GPG. St. Louis is giving up a NHL best 2.2 GPG. Jake Allen has been amazing in net for the Blues so far, going 9-3-1 with a 2.36 GAA. This is the final game of a home stand before a trip through Western Canada for St. Louis and I look for it to make the most of this opportunity. Lay the price with confidence, Blues roll.

10* GAME OF THE MONTH on the New York Rangers. Edmonton comes in off a hard-fought 3-2 OT road win at New Jersey, while the Rangers are off a 4-2 home victory over Boston. The Oilers in fact potted the winner with just 17 seconds left in the extra frame. After back-to-back OT road victories to open this trip, there’s no doubt this sets up as a letdown spot for the Oilers. And despite its recent success, note that Edmonton is still averaging only 2.33 GPG, while allowing 3.07. Goaltender Cam Talbot has been better of late, but note that he’s struggled against the Blue Shirts whenever he’s faced them, going 0-2 with a 3.57 GAA lifetime. The Rangers have averaged 3.29 GPG, while allowing 3.29 as well. New York has looked better of late as well in every regard, especially on the defensive end. And that’s likely to do with the improved play of veteran netminder Henrik Lundqvist, who continues to pick up steam and who owns a 2.55 GAA lifetime against Edmonton. The Oilers have been trash in this spot for a while now, just 1-6 in their last seven following a victory. New York enjoys three whole nights off after this before a tough two game road trip in Chicago and Columbus respectively. I’m expecting the Rangers to take advantage of familiar surroundings and of this favorable matchup. Great price, New York rolls.

10* PERSONAL FAVORITE on Columbus Blue Jackets. Columbus is 9-6, but it’s lost three straight. Clearly the Jackets won’t be looking past this golden opportunity as they risk life and limb trying to get back to their winning ways. Besides, the Hurricanes comes in off a 3-1 win over Florida, their first victory in their past five games. Carolina averages just 2.62 GPG, while allowing 2.77. It’s unsure as of writing if it’ll be Scott Darling or Cam Ward in net, but in my opinion it’s not going to matter anyways. The Blue Jackets average 3.19 GPG and allow 2.81. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky is 9-5-0 against Carolina with a 2.11 GAA. Carolina’s achilles heel has long been its play on the road (just 19 wins out of its last 66 road games against teams with a home winning percentage above .600) and that doesn’t bode well in my opinion facing this extremely focused Blue Jackets side. Great price, Columbus rolls.

8* PERSONAL FAVORITE on Calgary Flames. No need to overthink this one. Detroit has played six of its last seven on the road and comes off back-to-back victories, including a 4-0 win over the Oilers, before a 3-2 win over the Canucks. With a night off before an extended home stand, I think this one sets up as a letdown spot for the Wings. The Flames wasted a three-game win streak by losing to Vancouver the night after the Canucks lost to the Wings. Flames’ goaltender Mike Smith had been red hot coming into that one but stumbled. Calgary has nothing to “look past” to here though as it doesn’t play again until Sunday night at home against the Blues. I like Smith to bounce back and to continue his strong play and I expect the Wings to have a predictable letdown. Flames roll.

6* BM BLOWOUT BEATDOWN on the Calgary Flames. No need to overthink this one too much. Vancouver plays a tough contest at home against Detroit on Monday night and I think it will be “gassed” in the second game of the back to back (is just 1-3 in its last four such instances.) Calgary started a seven game home stand with a loss to the Stars, but it has since won three straight, most recently a 5-4 shootout victory over the Devils. No reason for Calgary to “look past” the Canucks, with a game at home against what should be a very road weary Red Wings team on Thursday night. I think the home side is well worth the price of admission in this spot, play on Calgary.

6* BM BEATDOWN on the Washington Capitals. The Capitals are still only 7-6-1-0 despite two straight victories, so they’ll hardly be “looking past” the 2-12-1-0 Coyotes tonight. Besides, Arizona comes in off its second win of the year in a 2-1 shootout victory at home over the Hurricanes on Saturday. Coyotes’ goaltender Antti Raanta made 36 saves in all, but so far he’s just 1-2-1 with a 3.13 GAA on the year. Arizona averages only 2.53 GPG, while allowing 4.13. Washington averges 3.00 GPG and allows 3.29. Goaltender Braden Holtby had 31 saves in the Capitals most recent 3-2 win over the Bruins and he’s a solid 7-3-0 in 2017/18 with a 2.70 ERA so far this season. I think he’s going to be a difference maker tonight (note that he’s 3-1-0 with a 2.54 GAA lifetime against Arizona.) As mentioned off the top, there’s no way the Capitals can afford to look past anybody right now, making this a price I have no issues at all in laying. Washington rolls.

6* ANNIHILATOR on Edmonton Oilers. I had a play on the Oilers on Friday night in their 6-3 win over the visiting Devils and I’m expecting Edmonton to carry that momentum over here. After losing eight of their previous nine, clearly the Oilers won’t be lacking motivation after a single victory. Also note, with one night off after this one, Edmonton will then embark on a lengthy East coast road trip, making this evening’s contest even more important. Off a 3-1 loss in Ottawa, it’s not too hard to imagine Detroit in some small way, getting caught looking ahead to its game tomorrow night in Vancouver. The situational factors working in favor of Edmonton today, makes the home side worth the price of admission in my opinion. Oilers roll.

8* ROAST on Florida Panthers. The struggling Rangers earned a rare road win over the Lightning in their latest action, scoring the 2-1 OT victory on Thursday, while the Panthers come in off a humbling 7-3 defeat to Columbus. I think New York has a letdown here and I expect Florida to bounce back after its latest poor effort. The Rangers average 3.00 GPG and allow 3.36. Goaltender Henrik Lundqvist is 1-1 with a 3.43 GAA on the road this year. New York has looked a lot better after an atrocious start, but as I mentioned at the start, I think the Panthers will be the much more motivated side tonight. Florida averages 3.58 GPG and allows 4.17. James Reimer has struggled so far this year, going 3-5 with a 4.00 GAA. But after losing three of four at home, including three straight and with two nights off before an extended road trip, I do indeed believe this becomes an almost “must win” for the home side. Great value here, play on the Panthers.

10* PERSONAL FAVORITE on Tampa Bay Lightning. Columbus comes in complacent here after its 7-3 blowout win over the Panthers last time out, while the Lightning will not be lacking in motivation after coming up short in a 2-1 home loss to the Rangers in OT in their latest action. The Blue Jackets average 3.31 GPG, while allowing 2.54. Goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky is 8-2 with a 2.07 GAA this season. Tampa averages 3.86 GPG, while giving up just 2.64. Netminder Andrei Vasilevskly is 10-2 wth a 2.42 GAA this year and 6-1 with a 2.27 GAA at home. Clearly these teams are very evenly matched, but as mentioned at the start, I think Columbus comes in a bit contented here after its latest win, while Tampa will leave everything on the ice before enjoying three whole nights off. All in all, a great price. Lightning roll.

8* ANNIHILATOR on Anaheim Ducks. Both teams are struggling to open the year, but I think the Ducks will find a way to get the job done on home ice tonight. The Predators are off a 4-1 loss at San Jose, while the Ducks come in off a 3-1 home loss to Toronto. Nashville is ranked 29th in the league in scoring with 2.33 GPG, while ranked 12th on the defensive side in allowing 2.83. Goaltender Pekka Rinne is 5-4 with a 2.10 GAA thus far. Anaheim has been better on the offensive side, averaging 2.92 GPG, while ranked 18th on the defensive side in allow 3.00 GPG. John Gibson is 5-5 with a 2.83 GAA so far this season, but has always been dominant in front of the home town crowd, going 41-27 with a 2.05 GAA lifetime in Anaheim. Nashville can’t find the back of the net right now, which doesn’t bode well facing Gibson at home. All things considered, I think this is a great price on the home side.

10* NON-CONFERENCE GAME OF THE MONTH on the Edmonton Oilers. If you told me before the year started that after the first 11 games of the 2017/18 NHL season that the New Jersey Devils would be 9-2 and the Edmonton Oilers would be 3-7-1, I’d likely have called you crazy. But that’s the case as these two non-conference foes face off against each other on Friday night. New Jersey is still unbeaten on the road after getting the better of Vancouver 2-0 on Wednesday (despite being outshot 37-26.) So far the Devils average 3.64 GPG and allow 2.82. Goaltender Cory Schneider has been excellent, going 6-1-0 with a 2.84 GAA. Edmonton was one of the highest scoring teams in the league last year, but so far it’s at the bottom of the barrell in avearging just 2.18 GPG, while allowing 3.27. Connor McDavid has been decent with five goals and 13 points. Oilers’ goaltender Cam Talbot has struggled, but I’ll point out that he’s 3-1-0 with a 1.73 GAA lifetime against the Devils. In my opinion, it’s an almost do or die for the Oilers tonight, who clearly won’t be lacking in motivation. And for the Devils, looks like a letdown spot after their big streak and with a look-ahead game in Calgary on Saturday night. I’m banking on the Oilers bouncing back here. 

7* play on the St. Louis Blues. The Flyers lost in Chicago just last night and I think they’re going to stumble again here as well. St. Louis enters off a 4-2 home win over the Kings. Philadelphia struggled with offense last night, but is averaging 3.42 GPG, while allowing 2.92. Michael Neuvirth is expected to get the call in net tonight for the visitors and he’s 1-3 with a 2.30 GAA and 0-2 with a 3.61 GAA on the road thus far. St. Louis comes in on top form, it’s won four straight and it averages 3.31 GPG, while allowing just 2.31. Goaltender Jake Allen is 7-3 with a 2.46 GAA this year, including 5-0 with a 1.80 GAA at home. Note that Flyers are just 1-5 in their last six in the second game of a back-to-back. Blues roll.

6* BM BEATDOWN on the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Rangers are just 4-9 overall, while the Lightning come in at 10-3. New York enters off a 6-4 home win over Vegas, while Tampa Bay most recently hammered Florida 8-5 on the road. New York averages 3.08 GPG and allows 3.54 GPG. Rangers’ goalie Henrik Lundqvist is 3-6 with a 3.21 GAA so far this year and just 0-1 with a 5.35 GAA on the road. Lundqvist will bounce back over the long-term, but his early numbers are of concern. Tampa ranks as the No. 1 offense in the league with 4.08 GPG, while ranked sixth in goals allowed with just 2.69 allowed per contest. Goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy struggled a bit against the Panthers, but still managed the win. On the year he’s 10-1 with a 2.46 GAA, including 6-0 with a 2.32 GAA at home. Clearly Vasilevskly’s early numbers are very encouraging. I have a hard time seeing Tampa “looking past” New York so early in the season. The Bolts are well worth the price of admission in this spot. 

6* play on Boston Bruins. The 8-3 Vegas Golden Knights have lost two straight to open their Eastern road swing and things aren’t going to get any easier facing this determined Bruins team in their own barn. Vegas most recently loss 6-4 to the Rangers, after falling 6-3 in Long Island the night previous. The Bruins enter off a tough 4-3 shootout loss in Columbus. Vegas averages 3.73 GPG and allows 2.82. Goaltender Oscar Dansk was recently injured, so it’s unclear if he’ll get the start tonight. Starting goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury is already out with injury, so Dylan Ferguson was recalled from Kamloops yesterday. Whoever gets the start in net, I think they’re going to be in trouble here in this hostile environment. Boston averages 3.00 GPG and allows 3.20. Tuukka Rask is just 1-5 with a 2.93 GAA on the year, but overall he’s 113-88 with a 2.11 GAA lifetime in front of the home town crowd. Rask has the track record and pedigree to return to top form and I expect him to be a difference maker in this one. The larger price is justified here, play on the Bruins.

8* play on Washington Capitals. New York hasn’t played since a 6-3 home win over the Vegas Golden Knights on Monday, while the Capitals return home off a 2-1 road loss to Calgary. The Isles average 3.67 GPG, while ranked 17th in goals allowed with 3.08 GPG. New York goaltender Jaroslav Halak is 5-2 with a 2.66 GAA this year. The Capitals average 2.92 GPG and allow 3.42. Braden Holtby is 5-3 with a 2.75 GAA on the year (is 12-6 with a 2.28 GAA lifetime against the Islanders.) Washington’s latest road trip was a disaster, but here’s the perfect opportunity to turn the page. In my opinion, this line could easily be a lot larger. Capitals roll.

8* ROAST on Chicago Blackhawks. The Blackhawks have won just three times in their last ten games, including dropping three straight, most recently a 6-3 setback at Colorado. Chicago remains one of the highest scoring teams in the league (3.17 GPG) and is decent defensively (allowing 2.83.) With two nights off before a tough divisional matchup in Minnesota, this has become an almost “must win” for Chicago this evening (trust me, I know it’s a ridiculous thing to say in early November, but clearly no one can be happy with the results in the Windy City right now.) Philadelphia has been a bit better, going 5-5 in its last ten, but it does enter off a deflating 4-3 OT loss in Anaheim on Monday night, a game which saw it waste an early 2-0 lead. And with another tough one in St. Louis tomorrow, it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors looking ahead to that one as well. The home team has won eight of the last nine in this series and I expect that very strong trend to carry over here. Blackhawks roll.

I'm playing on NY (8* ANNIHILATOR). After a remarkable start, last night's loss against the Islanders figures to mark the beginning of "reality" for the Knights. Now, they'll play the second of b2b games against a hungry and well-rested Rangers team. The only previous time that the Knights played the second of b2b games was when they got to face the Coyotes. This is a far tougher venue. Expect the Rangers, 39-22 (+11) their past 51 against Western Conference teams, to take full advantage of their venue and scheduling advantage, en route to picking up an important two points.

I'm playing on DALLAS (8*). Vancouver fans are starting to get pretty excited about the Canucks these days. However, I expect a talented Stars team to bring them back down to earth tonight. While they exploded for six goals last time out, the Canucks are still only 10-23 their past 33 after scoring four or more goals. The Stars, 20-13 (+5.2) the past 2+ seasons when playing with two day's rest in between visits, won their last visit here (4-2) and I expect them to finish on top once again. 

I'm playing on NYI (8*). Needless to say, the Knights are off to a very impressive start. I expect reality to set in this evening though. Since a 10/7 win at Arizona, the Knights haven't left Vegas. They're averaging two goals per game, when playing on the road. Tonight, they'll take on an Islander team which is 3-1 at home, averaging 4.5 goals here. The Isles have thrived against Western Conference teams the past couple of seasons, going 38-26 (+11.2) their past 64. I expect them to improve on those stats this evening.

I'm playing on COLUMBUS (8*). The Jackets have been stronger than the Bruins so far this season, particularly here at Columbus. They're 7-4 overall, 4-2 at home. They've outscored opposing teams by an impressive 3.2 to 1.8 average in those six home games. The (4-5) Bruins, on the other hand, are allowing an average of 3.7 goals per game away from Boston. The Bruins are already 0-3 against teams which are above .500, dropping them to an ugly 33-47 (-22.4) against "winning" teams, the past 2+ seasons. The Jackets, meanwhile, are 3-0 against sub-500 teams, 50-37 (+6.5) the past 2+ seasons. The Jackets won the last meeting here by a 4-3 margin and I expect them to finish on top agains this evening. 

I'm playing on CAROLINA (10* PERS FAV). This is a tough spot for the Ducks. They faced a tough Tampa team less than 24 hours ago and are now playing their third game in the past four days. They're just 11-14 their past 25, when playing the second of b2b games. The Canes are healthier and they should be fresher. Friday's loss vs. the Blues and a slow start here overall should ensure they come in hungry. Expect home ice and the scheduling advantage to add up to two points for the Canes.

I'm playing on CHICAGO (8* ANNIHILATOR). Both teams lost last night. The Avs lost 7-0 at Vegas though, while the Hawks were far more competitive. Perhaps more importantly, the Hawks have been far more competitive, when playing the second of b2b games. The only previous time this season that the Hawks played on the road, after playing the previous night was on 10/10. Off a loss at Toronto the previous night, Chicago responded with a 3-1 win at Montreal. Overall, the Hawks are a profitable 18-11 their past 29, when playing the second of b2b games. The Avs, on the other hand, haven't fared as well. They're winless this season, when playing the second of b2b games, after going 4-7 in that situation last season. The Hawks were laying greater than -200 the last time that they played here. We're obviously getting them at a far more reasonable price here and I feel thats providing us with very fair value.

I'm playing on MONTREAL (8* PERS FAV). The Canadiens were beaten by the a hot goalie when they played at MSG earlier. Montreal outshot the Rangers by a 34-25 margin in that 10/8 game but Henrik Lundqvist played a great game in goal and NY won 2-0. This evening's rematch is at Montreal though and Lundqvist isn't likely to be in net. Pavelec (1-2) is expected to get the start instead. While it still obviously a limited sample size, the Rangers remain winless on the road where they're giving up an average of 5.5 goals and 42 shots per game. Habs get some payback.

I'm playing on WASHINGTON (10* GAME OF MONTH). I've been on a pretty nice roll, across the board, for some time now. However, its been no thanks to the Canucks, as they've cost me a couple of times. Tonight offers an excellent chance to get some payback. The Capitals have numerous edges here. First off, they're undoubtedly the more talented team. They've got a far more experienced coach. They dominated the Canucks again last season. Laying greater than -300, the Caps won by a 3-0 score at Washington. For the game here at Vancouver, nearly a year ago to the day, the Caps were laying -180. The Caps won one that by a 5-2 margin, outshooting the Canucks by a 35-25 mark. The Caps also swept the Canucks the previous season. The well-rested Caps also have a scheduling advantage. Thats because this marks the Canucks' first game back from a successful road trip in the Eastern Time Zone. Thats a situation which has long given this team difficulty. While the Canucks are off a 1-0 win, the Caps are off a 4-1 loss. Thats noteworthy as Vancouver is 17-31 (-6.6) the past couple of seasons, after scoring one goal or less. During the same stretch, the Caps are 24-8 (+11.6) after scoring one goal or less. Stats aside, those results also figure to make the Caps the "hungrier" team. Expect all the advantages to add up to a victory for the visitors. 

I'm playing on MINNESOTA (8* ANNIHILATOR). The home won both meetings last season. I expect home ice to again prove signficant tonight. True, the Isles have won three straight overall. That situation hasn't exactly been kind to them over the years though. Indeed, they're 6-14 the past 20 times that they'd won their previous three or more games. Going back further finds them a dismal 43-77 (-43.1) their last 120 in that situation. The Wild, who were laying -200 when they hosted the Isles last season, are 24-11 (+14.3) the past couple of years, when facing a team with a winning record in the first half of the season. Expect them to improve on those numbers here. 

I'm playing on COLUMBUS (6* BLOWOUT). The price may initially seem steep. However, it starts sounding far more reasonable when we consider that the Jackets were laying greater than -300 the last time that these teams met. (Columbus won 3-1.) The Sabres have started to play better but this is a very tough spot for them. While Buffalo is off a 1-0 win last night, the Jackets are well-rested. Off back-to-back losses, they're also going to be in an angry mood. The Sabres are still 0-3 against teams which are above .500. Going back a little further finds them at an ugly 29-49 their last 78 against winning teams. With the schedule and venue in their favor, expect them the Jackets to take out their frustrations on their guests, moving to 10-5 the past 15 times that they played with three or more day's rest in between games. 

I'm playing on ST LOUIS (8* PERSONAL FAVORITE). The Flames are off an exciting shootout winner at Nashville last night. That doesn't bode well for them tonight though. Even with a win against the Canucks earlier, the Flames are still an ugly 8-16 the past 24 times that they played the second of b2b games. Prior to that 10/14 win against the Canucks, the Flames had lost 6-0 the previous night. So, they were very hungry to "bounce back." Last night's result isn't likely going to generate that same type of intensity for tonight. Either way, the Blues are a far tougher opponent. The Blues have only played two home games so far. Both came against tough opponents, as they faced Dallas and Chicago. Yet, they won both games by multiple goals. Off a loss at Vegas on 10/21, the well-rested Blues are going to be in an angry mood. With the schedule, situation and venue in their favor, expect the Blues to deliver their best effort and for them to remain perfect at home. 

I'm playing on MINNESOTA (*8* ANNIHILATOR). The Wild have had a difficult schedule to start the season, as five of their first six games have come on the road. Now, off a win at Calgary, they get a chance to play six straight at home. Catching the Canucks at the end of an already successful road trip, I fully expect the Wild to begin their homestand with a victory. While the price may initially seem a little steep, consider that the Wild were actually laying -300 the last time that they hosted the Canucks. Expect home ice advantage and superior overall talent to lead to Minnesota picking up the two points. 

I'm playing on MONTREAL (10* PERS FAV). I expect the Canadiens to be a "desperate" team on Tuesday tonight. While its obviously been a difficult start for the Habs, its not entirely their fault. After all, they've played six of their first eight games on the road. Their two home games (and six of eight overall) have come against teams which made the playoffs last season. They're 1-1 against teams which didn't make the playoffs last season. Now, they get to host a non-playoff team for the first time. I expect them to take advantage of the opportunity. Though they did win last time out, the Panthers are still only 1-3 on the road this season. The Habs were laying roughly -200 the only time they hosted the Panthers in 2017. They won that (3/30/17) game by a score of 6-2. We're getting them at a far more reasonable price here; I expect them to bounce back with their best effort. 

I'm playing on DETROIT (10* ANNIHILATOR). Off three straight losses, the Wings badly need a victory. The Canucks, who are off a 4-2 win over Buffalo, should be the perfect opponent. Vancouver is a dismal 5-20 its last 25, off a win by two or more goals. The Wings swept last season's games, including a 3-1 victory here at Detroit. After taking on the likes of Toronto, Tampa and Washington, expect the Wings to take full advantage of a weaker Western Conf. opponent. 

I'm playing on DALLAS (10* PERS FAV). Both these teams have high hopes for this season and both have already started to play well. Playing at home, I expect the Stars to have the advantage this evening. The Stars are already 3-1 here on the season, outscoring opponents by an average of 2.7 to 1.5, outshooting them by a 37.2 to 26.5 average margin. While the Canes are playing the final leg of a road trip, the Stars know this is their last home game in October. They've absolutely dominated the Canes here over recent years, most recently a 5-2 win here last season. Expect them to take care of business on home ice, once again. 

I'm playing on BUFFALO (10* PERS FAV). I successfully played against the Canucks last night and I'm going right back against them tonight. The Sabres made a number of offseason moves and were hoping to get off to a strong start. It hasn't happened. They've played the majority of their games on the road though and this is arguably the weakest team that they've faced yet. Desperate to get back on track and catching the Canucks in a b2b situation, look for the Sabres to come through with a much-needed two points.

I'm playing on OTTAWA (10* PERS FAV). The Devils have gotten off to a great start but I expect them to come back down to earth here. The Sens have dominated this series recently, most recently winning by scores of 2-1, 3-0 and 3-1. True, the Sens are off a disappointing upset loss vs. Vancouver. However, that was their first game back from a West Coast trip - which can be a difficult spot - and they were facing a Canucks team which was playing with recent revenge, from an earlier loss at Vancouver. The Devils are just 12-21 the past 2+ seasons, after scoring four or more goals in their previous game. During the same stretch, the Sens were 31-19 after a loss by two or more goals. Expect them to bounce back and improve on those stats on Thursday. 

I'm playing on NY (8* ANNIHILATOR). The Rangers badly need a victory and this should be an excellent spot to get one. While they came up short (5-4) last time out, their fourth straight loss, the Rangers were having to face the defending champs. Even with that loss, they're still 7-1 the past eight times that they'd lost three or more in a row. Catching the Isles fresh of a trip out West, expect a huge effort from the Rangers as they bounce back and move to 33-21 the past 54 times they'd allowed four or more goals in their previous game.

I'm playing on BOSTON (8* ROAST). The Canucks got Ottawa in the first game back from a road trip in their last game. Playing with revenge, they upset the Sens, winning by a 3-0 margin. Don't expect it to happen again. The Canucks are still 23-43 their last 66 against Eastern Conf. opponents. They're also 5-19 the last 24 times they won their previous game by two or more goals. The Bruins too both meetings last season. They were favored by more than -200 for the game here at Boston and I feel they're offering very fair value here. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON (10* GAME OF WEEK). Both teams last played Saturday. The Leafs won 4-3 while the Capitals lost 8-2. That should favor Washington. While the Leafs were 28-35 (-7.7) the past 2+ seasons, after scoring four or more goals in their previous game. During that span, the Caps were 19-9 (+5.4) off a loss by two or more goals. The Caps have also dominated the Leafs, including wins in five of the last six meetings here at Washington. While the Caps get the next two days off, the Leafs play tomorrow. Expect the home team to bounce back with a huge effort. 

I'm playing on LA (10* PERS FAV). Both teams played and won last night. Playing at home, I expect the Kings to be the team which continues its streak tonight. The Isles are thousands of miles away from home, playing their third straight game on the West Coast. After this, they return to their home state, where they'll have a few days off to prepare for a date with the Rangers, at MSG. In addition to the travel, this will be the Isles 6th game since starting on the 6th of Oct. The Kings started a day earlier, on the 5th. Yet, this will only be their fifth game. They've also played only one road game - and that was at SJ, so they didn't leave the state or time zone. Therefore, I'm going to argue that tonight's b2b spot is going to be tougher on the Isles than it is on the Kings. The home team won both meetings in last season's series, the Kings winning the game here by a 4-2 margin. They were a -200 favorite for that game, the win bringing them to 10-4 the last 14 series meetings here. We're getting the Kings at a much more reasonable price tonight. Given how well they've been playing and the situation, I believe thats providing excellent value.

I'm playing on DALLAS (6*). While the price is admittedly a little on the steep side, this should prove to be a mismatch. The Avs may be a little complacent, off a rare 3-game winning streak. Either way, off a game last night and now playing their third game in four nights, fatigue figures to be a factor. They're a dismal 10-20 (-9.2) the past 30 times that they were off a win by two or more goals. Off to a disappointing start, this talented Dallas team is going to be in angry mood. Note that the Stars are a dominant 35-16 (+21) the past 51 times that they were off a loss by two or more. With the venue and schedule in their favor, expect them to improve on those stats here. 

I'm playing on TB (8*). Both teams have been playing well to start the season. The Blues have won four of five while the Lightning have won three of four. Tampa checks in off a win though, while the Blues' winning streak was snapped last time out. At the end of a road trip, which will be followed by a few days off and a home date with archrival Chicago, I won't be surprised to see the Blues struggle tonight. The home team took both meetings last season. The Lightning had a 32-23 s.o.g. edge in the game here and won 5-2. Expect them to finish on top once again. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH (6*). The Pens have dominated the Panthers in recent seasons and there's little reason to expect anything different tonight. The last meeting resulted in a 4-0 Pens win. The last three meetings, all Pittsburgh wins, have seem the Pens win by a combined score of 12-3. While the Panthers have long struggled on the road, the Pens are a profitable 38-18 their past 56 home games, when the O/U line was 5.5. During that span, they're also 40-17 when off a game where they allowed four or more goals. Off a 5-4 loss Thursday, the champs bounce back tonight.

I'm playing on NYR. In an expected battle of back-up goalies, with both teams playing their second game in two nights, I feel the Rangers will have the advantage. For starters, the following should be mentioned. Yes, both teams played yesterday. However, prior to that, the Devils also played Thursday, while the Rangers had both Thursday and Friday off. That puts the Isles in a 3-games-in-four-nights spot, a more difficult scheduling situation than the Rangers are in. 

While this is the first time the Devils have played back-to-back games this season, they were just 12-18 (-2.2) in that situation the past couple of seasons. On the other hand, during that stretch, the Rangers were 21-13 (+7.7) when playing the second of b2b games. 

With just one win through their first five games, the Rangers are going to be angry. That one win? A shutout victory here in this season's only previous spot, when playing the second of b2b games. Rangers have won the last two meetings with the Devils by a combined score of 8-2. Rangers roll again. 

I'm playing on ANAHEIM (10* PERS FAV). After years of dominating the Flames here, the Ducks finally lost a home game vs. Calgary. Off that 2-0 setback, their second straight loss and now 1-2 on their current 4-game homestand, they're going to be in an angry mood tonight. I expect them to take it out on the Isles. The Ducks are 30-20 (+4.4) the last 50 times that they scored one goal or less in their previous game. During that span, they're also 20-13 (+3.9) off a loss by two or more goals 22-14 (+5.1) after playing three or more consecutive home games. With the Isles off to a 1-2 start, its also worth noting that the Ducks are 53-34 against sub-500 teams the past couple of seasons. While the Isles have had their number in recent seasons, I say that changes tonight. Ducks roll. 

I'm playing on DALLAS (8* ANNIHILATOR). The Wings are at the wrong place, at the wrong time. A highly talented team, the Stars are off to an 0-2 start. They're going to be in an angry mood. Losing at St. Louis last time out was "excusable" but dropping their home opener vs. Vegas doesn't figure to have sat very well with them. Back home, where they beat the Wings 5-2 last season, I expect a highly motivated effort. Both teams have had the past two days off. That figures to favor the Stars. Detroit was 13-24 (-13.2) the past two seasons, when playing with two days off. Dallas, in the same situation, was 18-12. With the Stars also an impressive 34-16 (+20) their last 50 off a loss by two more goals, I'm laying the wood and expecting a "W" for the home team. 

I'm playing on NASVHILLE (10* GAME OF WEEK). I've successfully played against the Predators each of their first two games. However, both those games were on the road and as I mentioned both times, the Preds aren't nearly as good away from Nashville. This is their home opener though and they're going to be fired up, particularly after an 0-2 start. Speaking of "home openers,' the Flyers, who are on the final leg of a 4-game road trip, figure to be looking fwd to their own home opener. Having won two of three in California, its already been a relatively successful trip, regardless of what happens here. Expect a hungry Preds team to come away with two points.

I'm playing on BUFFALO (10* ANNIHILATOR). Winless (0-2-1) through their first two games and heading out on a West Coast road trip after this, the Sabres badly need a win. NJ figures to be the perfect opponent. While the Devils did win their first game by a 4-1 margin, that victory came at NJ and it was against Colorado. This is a team which was only 12-23 on the road last season. With the Devils also just 10-20 (-10.7) the past 30 times that they played after scoring four or more goals, I'm laying the short price with the motivated home team.

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH (8* PERS FAV). I successfully played against the Predators in their opening loss at Boston. At the time, I mentioned that they weren't nearly as good, when playing away from Nashvhille. Tonight, they're in the wrong place, at the wrong time. A rematch of last year's Stanley Cup Finals against the Penguins. Unfortunately, for Nashville fans, they're catching the Pens off to an 0-2 start and off a 10-1 drubbing at the hands of the Hawks. No team likes to get embarrassed like that - least of all the defending champs. After this, the Pens play a pair of tough road games (Washington and Tampa) too, adding to the urgency of tonight's game. They're 33-12 (+19.1) their last 45, off a loss by two or more goals. Expect them to bounce back, big. 

I'm playing on TB (8* PERS FAV). These teams will meet at Florida, tomorrow night. Knowing that to be the case, the Lightning are going to be extremely motivated to "hold serve" on home ice. Not that they should need any extra motivation for opening night! Not when expectations are sky high in Tampa this season. Even in a down year last season, the Lightning's 23-18 home record was far superior to the Panthers' 16-25 mark on the road. The home team won each of the past four meetings. Expect home ice to again prove significant, the Lightning picking up the two points. 

I'm playing on LA (8*). The Flyers won at SJ last night. Playing the second leg of b2b games figures to take a toll on them tonight. Keep in mind that this team was just 14-27 away from Philadelphia a year ago, getting outscored by an average of 3.2 to 2.3. The Kings have been tough at home for years and had a winning record here again last season. They were 3-0-1 here in the preseason, 5-1-1 overall. The Kings have taken three of the last four meetings with the Flyers, limiting them to just 17 shots (and 0 goals) the last time the teams met. LA wins. 

I'm playing on ANAHEIM (8*). Given the home/records of these teams last season - and the expected point projections of each this season - this line could easily be higher. The Ducks were 34-16 here last season. They allowed just 2.2 goals per game here. On the other hand, the Coyotes were a dismal 12-29 on the road, giving up 3.5 goals per game. The Ducks were laying more than -200 each meeting here last season, winning those games by scores of 3-2 and 5-1. Expect the home fans to leave happy, again. 

I'm playing on BOSTON (8*). Both these teams are typically stronger in their own building. The Preds, in particular, struggle on the road. They were just 22-30 away from Nashville last season. They were outscored by a 2.9 to 2.6 average margin on the road. The Bruins, who outscored teams by an average of 2.8 to 2.5 here and outshot them by a commanding 32.9 to 25.9 average margin, have had plenty of recent success against the Preds here. They're 8-3 with a tie the last 12 meetings here at Boston, most recently a 4-1 win here late last March. The Bruins were a perfect 4-0 at home in the preseason, while going 0-3 on the road. Expect home ice to make the difference. 

I'm playing on SJ (8* PERS FAV). While its possible that the Sharks could take a step back by the end of the season, I expect them to be "all business" on Opening Night at the Shark Tank. The Sharks always seem to take on the Kings, or another Western Conference opponent, for their first game. Here, however, they get to host an Eastern Conf. opponent, one which they've dominated. The Sharks have beaten the Flyers three straight times here at SJ. Going back further finds them at 7-1 the last eight times they were a host in this series, 9-1 with a tie the last 11. While the Flyers were 1-3 on the road during the preseason, the Sharks took two of three here at home. Expect them to take advantage of the favorable opening night matchup, continuing their longstanding dominance of the Flyers here.

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH 10* NHL GAME OF WEEK. The home team is 4-0 in the series, winning each game by a multiple goal margin. I expect home ice to again prove the difference. The Pens, 7-3 (+3.3) the last 10 times that they were tied in a series, are 39-13 at home. The Preds are just 22-29 on the road. While the Preds are 32-53 (-36!) the past 2+ seasons, after scoring four or more goals, the Pens are 49-30 after allowing four or more goals, 23-11 (+9.4) their last 34 in that situation. Pens bounce back. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE, 10* MAIN EVENT. I'm not counting out the Preds quite yet. At least, not for this game. Not with their backs against the wall and the series shifting to Nashville. While the Preds are only 22-29 on the road, they're 31-18 here at home. While the Pens are 39-13 at home, they're only 25-26 on the road. The Preds are 36-19 (+15) the last 55 times that they scored one goal or less in their previous game, 13-7 their last 20 in that situation. Expect them to bounce back. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH 10* GAME 1 WINNER. With all due respect to the Predators, who have played remarkably well throughout the playoffs, getting the Penguins at this price is a bargain. The Pens have been here before. They've won here before. The Preds have not. In my opinion, that "finals experience" is indeed helpful, in a pressure-filled Game 1 situation. The Pens are 37-13 in this building. The Preds are 22-27 on the road. When these teams met here in the regular season, the Pens won 4-2. When they played here last season, the Pens won 5-2. I like the fact that the Pens have had three day's off in between games, as compared to the six days off that the Preds have had. After a tough series with the Sens, three days is just about perfect. However, six days is often too much, particularly for a team which had been in a groove like the Preds. Of course, I should add that Nashville is 3-6 when playing with three or more day's rest while Pittsburgh is 6-2 when doing so. Go Pens. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH 8* MAIN EVENT. The Pens have taken control of the series. With the Preds already having advanced, I expect the Pens to do the same tonight. The Pens didn't just win last time out, they dominated. A demoralizing 7-0 beatdown. Obviously, the Sens are going to come out hard. However, I think they're simply overmatched in too many areas. Looks like its Pens vs. Preds in the finals. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH 5* MAIN EVENT. While the Penguins are heavy favorites, I believe that the line could easily be even higher. The Sens are 27-22 on the road, where they get outscored by a 2.7 to 2.6 average score. The Pens are 35-12 at home, outscoring teams by a 3.6 to 2.6 average score. In a critical game, expect home ice and superior talent to ultimately make the difference. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE 8* WINNER. The Ducks have been resilient but one can't ignore the Preds' dominance in their own building. While the Ducks are now 21-26 on the road, the Preds are 30-17 at home.  The Preds are allowing 1.7 goals per game in these playoffs, the Ducks are allowing 2.9. Here at home, the Preds are a perfect 6-0, allowing a grand total of seven goals. While the price has come down slightly from its opener, it easily could have gone the other way. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH 5* MAIN EVENT. Like the Ducks last night, the Pens are in a situation where they can't afford to drop both games at home to start the series. Like the Ducks, I don't believe that they will. The Pens, 4-2 (+2.8) when trailing in a series the past 2+ seasons, are 9-4 (+4.8) their last 13, when attempting to avenge an earlier home loss. They've had their "wake up call" and they're going to be "all business" this evening. This is still a Pens team which is 34-13 at home and I'm not counting them out yet. Lay the wood and expect them to even up the series.

I'm playing on ANAHEIM 10* MAIN EVENT. At close to a pick'em price, playing at home in what is essentially a "must win" game, I believe that the Ducks are providing us with excellent value. After dropping Game 1, the Ducks know that they can ill afford another loss here. That formula might have worked against Edmonton, but its not something they want to repeat. Not against a Predators team which is very tough in its own building. While the Preds are 29-17 at home, they're a mere 21-26 on the road. Compare that to Anaheim's 33-15 home record and this price could easily be higher. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 5* ANNIHILATOR. It didn't look good for the Capitals. However, they showed their resolve, dug deep and have forced a Game 7. Back home, the momentum on their side, I expect them to finally take the next step. The Caps are 35-12 in this building. The Pens are 23-24 on the road. Look for the Caps to move to 30-10 their last 40, after scoring four or more goals in their previous game. 

I'm playing on NY 8* MAIN EVENT. Home ice hasn't made a difference for some of the other teams in these playoffs. However, its been a big deal in this series and I expect it to prove significant again this evening. The Sens, who are just 7-12 (-5.6) when playing with two day's rest (20-30 their L50) in between games, have lost both games here. The Rangers, 9-4 (+5.6) their last 13 when trailing in a series, won those two games here by identical 4-1 scores. Don't count them out yet. 

I'm playing on NASVHILLE 8* ANNIHILATOR. While they're 1-2 at St. Louis, the Preds have taken both meetings here at Nashville. Playing at home with a chance to close out the series, I expect them to have the advantage this afternoon. While the Preds outscore teams by an average of 3.2 to 2.4 here, the Blues only outscore teams by a 2.7 to 2.5 margin on the road. The Preds are 35-19 (+14) after scoring one goal or less in their previous game, 12-7 their last 19 in that situation. Expect them to punch their ticket to the Western Conf. Finals. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 10* VIOLATOR. While their backs are against the wall, I'm not ready to count out the Capitals quite yet. Yes, they lost their last game here by a score of 6-2. However, that score is deceiving. The Caps had a 36-23 edge in shots in that game and were all over the Pens to begin the game. They're still a commanding 34-12 at home. The Caps, who appear likely to be without Crosby, are still just 23-23 on the road. The Caps are 73-39 (+22.7) their last 100+ against a team which defeated them in the previous meeting. Expect their best effort and for them to extend the series. 

I'm playing on ANAHEIM 8* PERS FAV. The Ducks have stolen the momentum in this series and regained home ice advantage. Back on home ice, I expect them to take care of business tonight. Even with the Oilers having won those here to begin the series, the Ducks are still a dominating 31-14 here. That includes an 11-5 mark when the O/U line was 5.5. The Oilers, on the other hand, are a mediocre 26-20 away from Edmonton, 14-13 when the O/U line was 5.5. With the Ducks at 60-34 the past 2+ seasons, after scoring four or more goals in their previous game, look for home ice to (finally) make the difference. 

I'm playing on NY 8* MAIN EVENT. The Rangers delivered a dominant effort in Game 3, showing that they were a long way from being done in this series. I expect them to carry the positive momentum into this evening's game. While the Sens are now 23-24 the past 2+ seasons, when playing a road game with an O/U line of less than 5.5, the Rangers are 55-33 (+5.2) when playing a home game with an O/U line of less than 5.5. During that span, they're now 8-4 (+4.6) when trailing in a series. Expect them to improve on those stats here, knotting up the series at two a piece. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE 8* ANNIHILATOR. I was on the Blues at St. Louis last game. However, with the series shifting to Nashville, I'm backing the Preds. Nashville has had success against the Blues in this building. In fact, the Preds have won the last three meetings against the Blues here by a combined score of 14-4. This season, the Blues allowed 2.5 goals per game on the road while the Preds also allowed 2.5 goals per game at home. However, while the Blues averaged 2.7 goals per game themselves, the Preds averaged 3.2. Expect home ice to be the difference.

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 10* GAME OF WEEK. After dropping Game 1, I expect an extremely motivated effort from the Caps in Game 2. The Caps, already 1-0 in these playoffs when trailing in a series, are 71-38 (+23.4) the past 2+ seasons, when facing a team which defeated them in the previous meeting. They're 30-16 (+12.4) during that time when playing with "home revenge." Even with the Game 1 result, the Pens are still 22-23 (-6.8) on the road; the Caps are still 34-11 (+11.9) at home. I'm not couting them out yet. 

I'm playing on ANAHEIM 10* MAIN EVENT. Off a loss in Game 1, the Ducks know they can ill afford another one tonight. The Ducks are 12-2 off a loss by two or more goals and they're also 15-3 after allowing four or more goals. Additionally, they're 10-4 the last 14 times that they faced an opponent which defeated them in the previous meeting. Expect them to even the series. 

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS. 8* FRIDAY FEAST. The Blues fought hard to get back in Game 1. A late bad bounce/goal led to Nashville winnings. Getting the Blues at roughly a pick'em price, at home, in what is essentially must-win game, is providing excellent value. The Preds are an awful 31-51 (-35) the past few seasons, after scoring four or more goals. That includes a 12-19 (-10.6) mark in that situation this season. Meanwhile, the Blues are 42-29 (+7.1) after allowing four or more. I like their chances of bouncing back. *Subscriber Only*

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 10* PERS FAV. The fact that the Pens appeared to have an easier time in the first round has provided us with value on the Capitals. The Pens proved to have a big edge on Columbus while the Leafs gave the Caps all they could handle. That doesn't give the Pens any added advantage here though. Matchups are entirely different. If anything, those hard fought close OT wins figure to provide the Caps with an edge, in my opinion. They've had time off to recover and those were the type of victories that tend to build character and to serve a team well down the line. The Pens' extra long gap in between games - Washington last played on 4/23, Pitt last played on 4/20 - figures to favor the Caps, too. Washington is 34-10 at home. Pittsburgh is 21-23 on the road. Caps hold serve in Game 1.