I'm playing on ANAHEIM 8* ANNIHILATOR. By beating the Sharks, the young Oilers have already accomplished a lot. However, I expect them to have their hands full on the road this evening. While the Oilers are a respectable 24-20 on the road, the Ducks are a dominant 31-12 at home. The Ducks won 4-3 the last meeting with the Oilers here. While they've had a long gap in between games, the Ducks are 5-1 this season, when playing with three or more day's rest in between games. They're 14-7 (+3.8) in that situtation the past 2+ seasons. During that span, the Oilers are 7-9 when playing with three or more day's rest. Expect home ice to make the difference tonight.

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS 8* CONF WINNER. The Blues aren't getting much respect here. At roughly a pick'em price, playing at home, I feel they're offering us very fair value. While the Preds won at Chicago, they're still 19-24 away from Nashville. On the other hand, the Blues are 24-18 at home. While the Blues last played on 4/22, the Preds last played on 4/20. That's a fairly long gap in between games for a team which doesn't typically perform particularly well, after a break. In fact, the Preds are only 1-6 on the season, when playing with three or more day's rest. The 4/13 win at Chicago was their first of the season, when playing with a gap of three or more day's in between games. Including a 4-1 win here on 4/2, the Blues are 6-2 the last eight as a host in the series. I like their chances of improving on those stats here. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 10* GAME OF WEEK. Every game has obviously been extremely close. However, I believe the Caps have slowly begun to exert their will. Up 3-2, I expect them to smell the blood in the water and look for them to close the series. The Leafs had their chance. If they could have won either of the last two games, they'd be in great shape. As it is, I expect the results of the last two games to be a bit deflating for them, while the Caps are coming in on a high. The Leafs are already heroes in Toronto, as this is a city used to losing hockey teams. The Caps, on the other hand, are on a mission. Expect them to take the next step here. *GOW

I'm playing on MINNESOTA 5* ANNIHILATOR. Don't count out the Wild. A 2-0 win last game has given them life. Having already been written off, they're playing with little pressure. Back home, where they are still a healthy 27-16, I expect them to extend the series once again. While the Blues are now just 3-7 (-4.4) their last 10 when leading in a playoff series, the Wild are 14-8 (+3.6) their last 22, off a shutout win. Expect them to improve on those stats this afternoon.

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 5* ANNIHILATOR. Down 1-2 and playing on the road, the Capitals didn't blink. Instead, they responded with their best effort. They jumped all over the Leafs and never looked back. Off that performance and now back home for this pivotal game, I fully expect the Caps to follow it up with another victory on Friday. The Caps have now taken five of six meetings against the Leafs here the past couple of seasons. They're 33-10 at home, compared to the Leafs' 21-23 mark away from Toronto. With the Caps also 27-10 (+10.8) off a game in which they scored four or more goals, look for them to seize control of the series with. 

I'm playing on EDMONTON 8* ANNIHILATOR. I successfully backed the Sharks in the last game of this series. However, nobody expected the lopsided 7-0 score. Off that embarrassing beatdown and now returning home to their own building, I expect the talented Oilers to respond with a huge effort. The Sharks are only 21-22 away from San Jose. The Oilers are 26-17 here at Edmonton. The Sharks get outscored by a 2.7 to 2.6 average margin on the road. The Oilers outscore team by a 2.9 to 2.4 average margin here at Edmonton. The Oilers, who hadn't allowed a single goal in the previous two games, are 14-7 (+6.6) on the season, after allowing four or more goals in their previous game. Expect them to bounce back. 

I'm playing on MONTREAL 10* MAIN EVENT. Visiting teams had their way in last night's games, going 4-0. I expect home ice to make the difference in this evening's game at Montreal though. The Habs, who won in OT the last game here at Montreal, were at their best the last (only) time this series was tied, a 3-1 win at MSG. Including that result, the Rangers are just 2-6 (-5.2) the last eight times that they were tied in a playoff series. Now 9-4 their last 13 against the Rangers, expect the Canadiens to rise to the occasion and seize control of the series. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 10* PERS FAV. In what is essentially a must-win game for the Capitals, I'm backing what I believe to be the superior team. Even with the Game 2 loss, the Caps are still 70-37 their last 107, when facing a team which defeated them in the previous meeting. While they're getting very excited in Toronto, don't count out the Caps yet. They were the superior team all season and I expect their very best effort here. 

I'm playing on SAN JOSE 10* BEST BET. After dropping the first game, the Oilers responded with back-to-back victories. Now, I believe it'll be the Sharks who respond with a victory. The young Oilers clearly have a lot of talent. However, this is new territory for them. They haven't held the lead in a playoff series for many years now. For the verteran Sharks, 39-27 (+7.5) the past few seasons when attempting to avenge a home loss, they've been here before. Given the situation and the fact that the Sharks' 26-16 home record is still superior to the Oilers' 23-19 road mark, I feel that this price could easily be higher. Don't count out the Sharks yet. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON. Give the Leafs credit for playing well and earning the split at Washington. However, I still believe that the Caps are the superior team, regardless of venue. They're 21-9 (+8.4) the last 30 times that they faced a team which defeated them in the previous meeting. Going back further finds them at a highly profitable 70-36 (+25.2) in the revenge role, the past 2+ seasons. Expect them to take care of business in this pivotal game. 

I'm playing on CHICAGO 10* GAME OF WEEK. With their backs to the wall, I fully expect the Hawks to respond wtih a huge effort this evening. This battle-tested team is 7-1 (+5.5) the past eight times it was trailing in a playoff series. Going back further finds the Hawks at 27-15 (+13.2) their last 42 in that situation. While the Preds shutout in the opener may have been impressive, it should be noted that they're 0-4 on the season, when off a shutout win. They lost those four games by a combined score of 13-4, too. I'm going with the Hawks. *GOW

I'm playing on EDMONTON 8*. The Sharks stole Game 1. With their backs to the wall, I expect a desperate Edmonton team to even the series. The Sharks are the older and more experienced team. While I didn't play the game, I wasn't at all shocked to see them take the opener. Obviously they want more but they've now accomplished their goal of splitting these first two games. While the Oilers are young, they're also extremely talented. They've now had a taste of what its going to take to win in the playoffs and I expect them to elevate their game accordingly. The Sharks are still only a modest 21-21 on the road while the Oilers are 25-17 at home. Look for McDavid and co. to improve on those stats here.

I'm playing on MINNESOTA 5*. After dropping Game 1, the Wild need to win this one. I expect them to bounce back with their very best effort. While the Blues are now 12-13 (-1.1) when playing a road game with an O/U line of less than 5.5, the Wild are 18-6 (+6.7) at home, when the O/U line was less than 5.5. While I backed the Blues in Game 1, its worth noting that they are only 1-6 the last seven times that they were leading in a playoff series. Of course, those numbers weren't from this year's team. All the same, its going to be hard to improve on them against a determined and talented Wild team which has its back against the wall. Expect Minnesota to be a little more "desperate" and for that to ultimately be the difference. 

I'm playing on MONTREAL 8*. After dropping Game 1, the Canadiens need to win this one. I expect them to bounce back with their very best effort. Even with the Game 1 result, the Habs are still 7-3 their last 10 against the Rangers. The last time that the Canadiens were off a shutout loss, they answered with a 4-1 win in their next game. Prior to that, off their previous shutout loss, they bounced back with a 3-2 victory. On the season, the Habs are 13-4 (+9.7) off a loss by two or more goals. Expect them to respond accordingly once again.

I'm playing on ANAHEIM 8* ANNHILATOR. While the road teams held a 4-1 edge last night, I expect the home teams to settle the score this evening. The Flames are a modest 21-20 on the road. The Ducks are a dominant 29-12 at home. Calgary gets outscored by an average margin of 2.7 to 2.3 on the road. Anaheim outscores teams by a 3.0 to 2.0 margin at home. The Ducks have absolutely owned the Flames here over the years and all signs point to more of the same here. 

I’m playing on CHICAGO 8* PERS FAV. This is an extremely well-coached and playoff battle-tested Chicago team, one which knows how to take care of business come playoff-time. Though they enter the playoffs in a bit of a slump, I fully expect to see a different team tonight. A home game vs. the Preds figures to be just what the doctor ordered. The Hawks are 9-1 the last 10 as a host vs. Nashville. The Preds were 17-24 on the road this season, the Hawks were 26-15 at home. With the Preds at 0-6 when playing with three or more day's rest, I'm backing the home team. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 5 BM BEATDOWN. The Capitals are the biggest favorite for good reason. While the Leafs were below .500 on the road, the Caps were 32-9 at home. They've dominated the Leafs here over the years and again this season. The Leafs, just 40-42 overall, were 12-19 (-8.4) against teams with a winning record this season. The Caps, on the other hand, were 27-13 (2.8) against teams with a losing record. The Caps have been extremely stingy here all season and I expect them to be all business again tonight. 

I'm playing on DETROIT 10* GAME OF MONTH. Both teams have had disappointing seasons. Both lost again yesterday. However, this one figures to mean a lot more to the Red Wings. Not only is it their home finale, its also their last game ever at Jou Louis Arena. While the Devils did win here back in late January, the Wings are still 12-3 their last 15 as a host in the series. Its true that the Wings only score 2.5 goals per game at home. Thats still better than the 2.2 gpg that the Devils average on the road though. Also, while the Wings allow 2.7 goals per game at home, the Devils allow 3.0 g.p.g on the road. While the stats do favor the Wings, I'm taking them because I expect them to have the "emotional edge." Look for them to close out 37 (mostly successful) years here with a big win. *GOM

I'm playing on SJ 10* PERS FAV. While both have qualified for the playoffs, these teams would both like a win here. Playing at home and with recent revenge from a loss at Calgary, I expect the Sharks to have the advantage. While the Flames are a modest 21-19 at home, the Sharks are a solid 25-15 at home. The Sharks, who had to witness Calgary clinch a playoff spot in their 5-2 loss on Calgary on 3/31, are 73-50 (+8.9) the past couple of seasons, when playing with revenge. During that span, they're also 39-23 (+12) when off a loss by two or more goals. Expect them to bounce back and close out the reg. season with a victory. 

I'm playing on SAN JOSE 8* DOMINATOR. The Oilers recently beat the Sharks, at Edmonton. That should provide the Sharks, who are 73-49 (+10.2) the past few seasons when playing with 'revenge,' some added motivation. The Sharks are 2-0 this month, now 13-5 in April the past couple of seasons. Edmonton, on the other hand, are off a loss and are now 3-8 (-4.3) in April the past 2+ seasons. During that stretch, they're also 27-49 (-13.8) off a loss by two or more goals. I'm backing the Sharks. 

I'm playing on COLUMBUS 5* PERS FAV. Off four straight losses and playing their regular season home finale, I expect a highly motivated effort from the Blue Jackets here. While the Jackets are 28-13 at home, the Jets are 17-23 away from Winnipeg. The Jets get outscored by an average of 3.2 to 2.8 on the road. The Jackets outscore teams by an average margin of 3.1 to 2.0 here at Columbus. The Jackets are 28-14 (+9.8) against teams with a losing record and they're 10-4 (+6.5) after scoring one goal or less in their previous game. Look for them to improve on those stats this evening. 

I'm playing on CAROLINA 8* ANNIHILATOR. The Canes have taken three of four meetings this season and I expect them to have the advantage again this evening. While Carolina did get eliminated from postseason contention last game, I still expect a motivated effort. Coach Peters had this to say: “We've done it right for a long period of time here recently. We want to finish on a positive note with our effort and our attention to detail." Jeff Skinner added: "We have to regroup and finish out hard." The Isles are 17-22 on the road, the Canes are 23-16 at home. With the Isles at 0-5 the last five times that they'd won three in a row and 11-22 (-17.4) in that situation the past 2+ seasons, I'm backing the home team. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE 8* PERS FAV. Some might feel the Isles will want this one a little more. After all, they're still fighting for the playoffs while the Preds have now wrapped up a playoff spot. However, the Preds are off a loss and have dropped three of four. They don't want to back their way into the playoffs and I expect a highly motivated effort. Having lost captain Tavares to injury a couple of games ago, the Isles know their chances of an extended playoff run are slim, even if they did manage to make their way in. They're still just 16-22 on the road, the Preds are still 24-16 at home. Playing their regular season home finale, look for the Preds to bounce back and improve to 14-7 their last 21, after a loss by two or more goals in their previous game. 

I'm playing on MINNESOTA 8* NON-CONF ANNIHILATOR. The Wild play their regular season home finale. They'll be motivated for a win here and to settle a score against a Carolina team which beat them at Raleigh. While the Canes are 12-27 on the road, the Wild are 28-12 at home. All things considered, this price could easily be higher. 

I'm playing on ST LOUIS *8 REVENGE CRUSHER. The Jets have had their way with the Blues this season but I expect that to change this evening. The Blues are 22-16 at home. The Jets are 16-23 on the road. The Jets get outscored by an an average of 3.3 to 2.8 goals on the road. The Blues outscore teams by a 3.0 to 2.8 average at home. While the Jets are 7-11 their last 18 against winning teams, the Blues are 13-6 (+5.4) their last 19 against losing teams. Payback time. 

I'm playing on OTTAWA 8* ANNIHILATOR. These teams faced each other last night, at Detroit. The Wings won 5-0. With this evening's rematch being played at Ottawa, I expect the Sens to get their revenge. While the Wings are 16-24 on the road, the Sens are 20-19 at home. The Wings are 11-22 (-10.9) after allowing four or more goals. The Sens are 14-10 (+6.5) after allowing four or more. Going back further finds them at 45-34 (+13.8) in that situation. Payback time. 

I'm playing on NY. While they've already clinched a playoff spot, the Rangers should be very hungry to snap their losing streak. They particularly want to win a home game before the playoffs start - and after this game, their only remaining home game comes against the Pens. Facing a Flyers team, which is playing the second of b2b games, should provide them with the perfect opportunity. The Flyers are just 14-25 away from Philly. Look for a motivated Rangers team, 11-3 its last 14 when attempting to avenge an earlier home loss, to deliver a fatal blow to their playoff hopes here. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH. The Canes saw a winning streak come to an end yesterday, losing 3-0 against Dallas. The Pens, who had yesterday off, snapped a losing streak by beating the Rangers in their last game. They'll be the team which brings some positive momentum into today's game and they should also be the ones with fresher legs. In addition to playing the second of b2b games, the Canes will be playing their fifth game in the past seven days. Look for it to catch up with them against a Pens team which has had their number this season. 

I'm playing on BUFFALO. I won with the Islanders in their last game. However, that was against a terrible NJ team which has seemingly packed it in for more than a month now. The Sabres aren't going to the playoffs either. However, they're playing a lot harder than the Devils. While Isles were at home against the Devils, now they're on the road to face the Sabres. Perhaps worst, in their last game, they lost captain John Tavares to a leg injury, a crushing blow. While the Isles are 15-22 on the road, the Sabres are 19-19 at home. They should be motivated to do some "spoiling" and to climb above .500 here. While the Isles may have had yesterday off, they're still playing their third game in four days, a situation that hasn't been kind to them. Buffalo, on the other hand, is well-rested. The home team has won both meetings and I'm expecting more of the same here. 

 I'm playing on PHILADELPHIA 8* PERS FAV. The Devils are terrible right now and they've been terrible for weeks. They lost again last night. Here, they'll be facing a revenge-minded Flyers team which had last night off and which comes in with a score to settle. Off three straight wins, the Flyers have won more games within the last week than the Devils won in the entire month of March. They'll be happy to take advantage of a tired NJ team which has had their number all season. Payback time. 

I'm playing on the NEW YORK ISLANDERS 5* PERS FAV. Off three straight losses and with their chances of a playoff spot fading by the day, the Isles desperately need to stop the bleeding with a win. The Devils should provide them the perfect opportunity, as they've been terrible for weeks. Off four straight losses and playing out the string, NJ is now 2-12 for the month of March. The home team has won both meetings. Not surprising, on the season, the Devils are just 12-26 on the road. That includes an 0-5 mark when the O/U line was 5.5. Look for the Isles to bounce back. 

I'm playing on MINNESOTA 10* PERS FAV. Both these teams have struggled recentlhy. Both are going to be hungry for a victory. Playing at home, I expect the Wild to have the advantage. The Sens score 2.7 goals per game on the road, while also allowing 2.7. The Wild, on the other hand, outscore teams by a commanding 3.3 to 2.3 margin here at home. The Wild already beat the Sens (at Ottawa) and this time they're catcing the Sens right in the middle of a road trip. Look for them to bounce back and improve to 14-9, after allowing four or more goals in their previous game. 

I'm playing on COLUMBUS 5* BM BEATDOWN. Not only are the Jackets the much better team, they've also got the venue and schedule in their favor. While the Sabres played yesterday, the Jackets have had the past couple days off. The Sabres are 5-13 after scoring four or more goals, 6-10 when playing the second of b2b games. The Jackets, meanwhile, are 12-3 (+9.2) when playing with two day's worth of rest in between games. While the Sabres are 13-25 on the road, the Jackets are 27-11 at home. All things considered, the price could easily be even higher. 

I'm playing on CHICAGO. Off an embarrassing 7-0 loss last time out, the Hawks are going to be in an angry mood. The fact that the Lightning beat them, at Chicago, the last time that these teams met figures to only add to their anger. The Hawks are 12-5 the last 17 times that they attempted to avenge an earlier home loss. They're also 38-23 the past couple of seasons, after allowing four or more goals. During that time, they're also 31-18 (+4.5) off a loss by two or more goals. While the Lightning are 19-17 at home, the Hawks are 23-13 (+10.8) on the road. While the Lightning are 10-16 (-11.9) against teams from the West, the Hawks are 18-10 (+6.3) against teams from the East. Payback time. 

I'm playing on WINNIPEG. Off back-to-back losses and looking to get back to 500 at home, the Jets should be highly motivated. While the Jets had yesterday off, the Canucks are off an upset win at Minnesota. They're still only 12-25 on the road though. This will mark the final leg of a 5-game road trip. The Jets are a perfect 3-0 as a host in the series the past couple of seasons. They won those games by a combined score of 11-5. Expect another victory on Sunday. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH 5* BM BEATDOWN. While this line is high, it could easily be higher. The Pens are 28-8 (+12.3) at home. The Flyers are 13-24 (-9.2) on the road. While the Flyers are 12-19 against winning teams, the Pens are 30-14 against losing teams. Off back-to-back losses, the Pens are going to be motivated to get back on track, particularly as the Flyers beat them 4-0 the last time that these teams met. They're 19-4 (+13.6) after allowing four or more goals. With the venue and schedule in their favor, expect the Pens to improve on those stats on Sunday. 

I'm playing on COLUMBUS 5* ANNIHILATOR. Off back-to-back losses, the Jackets are going to be highly motivated this afternoon. This marks the seventh time this season that the Jackets have lost two in a row. In all six previous cases, they won their next games. While the Flyers are 12-19 (-6.2) against teams with a winning record, the Jackets are 26-13 (+8.8) against losing teams. Including a 2-0 mark against Philadelphia, the Jackets are 17-8 (+8) against divisional opponents. On the other hand, the Flyers are 8-14 (-6.7) against divisional foes. The Flyers are 13-24 (-9.2) on the road. The Jackets are 26-11 (+9.5) at home. All things considered, the price could easily be even higher. 

I'm playing on MINNESOTA 5* BM BEATDOWN. These teams have split a pair or meetings at Vancouver. With this afternoon's game being played at Minnesota, I expect the Wild to have a significant advantage. The last time that the Wild hosted the Canucks, they won 6-2. This season, the Wild are 24-12 at home. On the other hand, the Canucks are just 11-25 on the road. With the Canucks just 9-21 against teams with a winning record, I'm laying the wood with the Wild. Look for Minnesota to bounce back and to improve to 7-3 its last 10 off a loss by two or more goals. 

I'm playing on LA 8* PERS FAV. The home team has won both meetings so far this season. The Jets won 3-2 at Winnipeg. The Kings returned the favor with a 3-2 win here at LA, in mid-January. LA was laying -205 for that game. Now, a couple months later, we're getting the Kings at a considerably lower price. I believe thats providing us with very fair value. While the Jets are 15-21 on the road, the Kings are 20-15 at home. LA outscores teams by a 2.8 to 2.5 average score here. Winnipeg gets outscored by a 3.2 to 2.8 margin on the road. With the Kings 11-2 their last 13 at home, when the O/U line was 5.5, look for home ice to again prove the difference. 

I'm playing on MINNESOTA 5* BM BEATDOWN. Off 5-straight losses, the Wild got back on track with a much needed victory last time out. The last thing they want to do is to follow it up with another loss. Rather, I expect them to build positive momentum from the win. The Flyers did win when these teams met at Philly. However, with this game at Minnesota, the revenge-minded Wild should have a signifcant advantage. While the Wild are 24-11 at home, the Flyers are 12-24 on the road. Minnesota outscores teams by an average score of 3.3 to 2.1 here. Philly gets outscored by a 3.4 to 2.3 margin on the road. In addition to beating them earlier this season, the Flyers also swept the Wild last year. Payback time on Thursday evening. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA 5* ANNIHILATOR. The Panthers check in off b2b losses. After this game, they host Chicago. After that, they hit the road for four games. In other words, this is by far the most winnable game they're going to have. I expect them to take advantage. The Coyotes beat the Panthers at Arizona but they're a terrible 11-25 on the road, even off a rare road win. While the Coyotes are 20-33 (-6.7) the past 2+ seasons after scoring four or more goals, the Panthers are 39-30 (+9.7) after allowing four or more. They've dominated the Coyotes here in recent seasons and I expect them to bounce back with a win tonight. 

I'm playing on MONTREAL 8* ANNIHILATOR. The home team has won both meetings so far this season. I expect home ice to again prove significant. Even off a win at Florida on Tuesday, the Canes are still a dismal 10-26 on the road. That includes a 2-14 mark when the O/U line was less than 5.5. The Canadiens, on the other hand, are 21-15 at home. Montreal outscores teams by a 2.9 to 2.1 margin here. Carolina gets outscored by a 3.2 to 2.5 mark on the road. The Habs are 4-0 as a host in this series the past couple of seasons. Expect them to continue that home ice series dominance here. 

I'm playing on the NEW YORK RANGERS 10* PERS FAV. The fact that the Rangers played yesterday is helping to keep this line lower than it otherwise would have been. However, given that the Rangers are 10-3 (+8.2) when playing the second of b2b games, I'm not too worried about the b2b spot. Going back further finds them at 29-15/+12.4 their last 44 in that situation. Note that the Rangers are also 24-14 when facing a team with a losing record. That's much better than the Isles' 13-20 mark, when playing a team with a winning record. The Rangers won this season's first meeting between these teams, here at MSG. However, the Isles have won both games since. Look for the Rangers to avenge those losses here, improving to 22-8 their last 30, when playing with "revenge." 

I'm playing on FLORIDA 10* PERS FAV. While the Panthers may only be 16-19 at home, thats much better than Carolina's 9-26 mark on the road. Not surprisingly, the home team has won both meetings so far. The Canes won 3-2 at Raleigh. The Panthers returned the favor with a 3-2 win here at Florida. Both teams lost on Sunday, each allowing four goals. Thats noteworthy as the Canes are 30-44 (-17.5) the past couple of seasons, after allowing four or more goals. During the same stretch, the Panthers are 39-29 (+11) after allowing four or more goals. Even with this season's split so far, the Panthers are still 7-1 the last eight meetings in this series, a perfect 4-0 here at home. Look for home ice to prove the difference, the Panthers bouncing back with a big win. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 6* ANNHILATOR. While the Flames are indeed hot right now, this is an extremely difficult venue.  The Caps are 28-8 on home ice, outscoring opponents by an average score of 3.4 to 1.7 here. The Flames, on the other hand, get outscored by an average score of 2.7 to 2.4 on the road. The Caps, who are off a 5-3 win on Saturday, are 9-3 (+5.2) when playing with two day's rest and 22-9 (+9) after scoring four or more goals in their previous game. Look for Caps to extinguish the Flames' winning streak. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH 7* BLOWOUT. While the Pens had yesterday off, the Sabres are off a hard-fought win over the Red Wings. The Pens tend to take care of business against teams like Buffalo. They're 29-13 (+7.2) against teams with a losing record this season, 15-7 their last 22. Look for the Pens, 22-13 their last 35 after scoring four or more goals, to have the fresher legs and be the team which picks up the two points. 

I'm playing on DETROIT. While the Wings admittedly haven't been very good at home this season, they've still been better here than Buffalo has been on the road. The Wings average 2.5 goals per game at home. The Sabres average 2.4 gpg on the road. The Wings allow 2.7 goals per game at home. The Sabres allow 3.1 gpg on the road. The Wings are off back-to-back victories, scoring five goals in each of those wins. Having lost the last two meetings with the Sabres, they should be highly motivated to make it three in a row. Catching the Sabres, who are a dismal 3-16 their last 19 after playing three or more in a row away from Buffalo, at the end of a road trip, look for the revenge-minded Wings to make in three in a row.

I'm playing on PHILADELPHIA 10* GAME OF WEEK. While the Flyers have had the past couple of days off, the Canes are off a win last night against the Predators. The last time that they played the second of b2b games, the Canes lost 3-2 vs. the Islanders. This is worse than a typical b2b spot though; the Canes will also be playing their fifth game in the past seven days. They've played two more games in March than the Flyers have. The Flyers hit the road for four games after this one. That should add to their urgency here, as they'd really like to pick up a couple more points before they leave. While the Flyers are a modest 25-20 here, the Canes are a dismal 9-25 on the road. Look for the Flyers to have the fresher legs and for them to finish with the "W." 

I'm playing on DETROIT. The Avs just upset the Wings a few days ago, at Colorado. With this afternoon's game being played at Detroit, expect the revenge-minded Wings to have the advantage. Admittedly, the Wings have only been marginally better at home than on the road. However, the Avs are a dismal 9-25 when playing away from Colorado. Its been more than a month (last one came 2/17) since the Avs won a road game. Prior to that, their previous road win came before Christmas, way back on 12/23. Payback time.

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 8* PERS FAV. I won with both these teams in their last game. However, this one should favor the Capitals. The Preds won when these teams met a few weeks ago. That was at Nashville though, where they are a much better team. Now, they're on the road, where they're just 14-20. They'll take on a Capital team which is a terrific 28-7 at home and which outscores teams by an average of 3.5 to 1.7 here.

The Caps have long been outstanding in the revenge role. They're 69-35 (+26.1) the past 2+ seasons, when attempting to avenge an earlier loss. During that span, the Preds are a dismal 27-50 (-38.6) after scoring four or more goals in their previous game. The Caps beat them 4-1 in last season's meeting here and I'm expecting a similar result here. 

I'm playing on SJ 5* BIG JUICE ANNIHILATOR. This line could easily be higher. The Sharks are 22-12 at home. They won their last game here by a score of 5-1. The Sabres, on the other hand, lost their last road game by a 4-3 margin. That dropped them to 11-23 away from Buffalo on the season. The fact that the Sharks lost at Buffalo last month will prevent them from taking the Sabres for granted. This is a case of a far superior team with more to play for. Playing on their home ice, the Sharks are healthier and they should be also be hungrier. While the Sabres have had surprising success in this series over the years, that stops tonight. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 10* PERS FAV. Off four straight losses, the last three of which came on the road, the Caps are going to be in a foul mood. While the Wild have been solid on the road, the Caps are an outstanding 27-7 here at home. They're also a profitable 19-7 (+7.6) after playing three or more consecutive games on the road, a perfect 6-0 their last six in that situation. The Caps are laying -215 when they hosted the Wild last year, a 3-2 win. With that victory, they're 7-2 their last nine as a host in this series. They're every bit as good this year as they were last; I feel this price could easily also be higher. Look for the Caps to bounce back with a big effort and an important two points. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE. The home team is 2-0 in the season series. Each victory was convincing. The Jets won 3-0 at Winnipeg. The Preds won 5-1 here at Nashville. With that victory, the Preds are 8-3 the last 11 times that they hosted the Jets/Thrashers. Overall, the Jets are 14-20 on the road and the Preds at 19-15 at home. The Jets get outscored by a 3.2 to 2.7 average margin on the road; the Preds outscore teams by an average of 3.2 to 2.6 here at home. While the Preds got back on track with a solid 3-1 win at SJ last time out, the Jets are 0-3 their last three, getting outscored by a 13-6 margin. Look for home ice to again prove the difference.

I'm playing on CHICAGO 8* PERS FAV. The Hawks are off a 4-2 loss, their second straight. The Wild are off a 7-4 win. When playing at home and coming off back-to-back losses, the well-coached Hawks are typically very tough to beat. While the Wild are 30-31 the past couple of seasons, after allowing four or more goals, the Hawks are 36-23 when doing so. The Wild are 17-15 during that span, when playing a road game with an O/U line of 5.5. The Hawks, meanwhile, are 39-19 when playing at home with an O/U line of 5.5. While the Wild give up 2.7 g.p.g. on the road, the Hawks permit just 2.3 g.p.g here at home. All things considered, the price could easily be higher. While home ice admittedly hasn't meant much in this series of late, I look for it to make the difference this afternoon. 

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS. We're getting the Blues at a much cheaper price than we normally would due to the fact that they're playing the second of back-to-back games. I feel thats providing us with excellent value. Yes, the Blues played yesterday. However, they did so here at home. So, there was no travel. Also, they had the previous two days off. So, they aren't playing in a 3-in-4 situation. Additionally, this will be just their fifth game in March and only their seventh game sinc 2/21. So, even though we're getting a greatly reduced price, due to the b2b spot, its not really that taxing a situation. I'd argue that the Isles are in a much worse scheduling spot. Sure, they had yesterday off. Howver, they played way out in Vancouver the previous night, a 4-3 OT win. This will mark the final leg of a never-ending 9-game road trip that took them all over the continent. It should be easy for them to get caught looking ahead to the return trip home. While the Blues are above .500 at home, the Isles are just 12-20 on the road. The Blues have taken four of the last five meetings against the Isles, here at St. Louis. They were laying a minimum of -137 for each of those games, a couple of the lines exceeding the -200 mark. Look for them to take advantage of their road weary guests in this one. *GOW

I'm playing on COLUMBUS. These teams are playing very differently right now. The Jackets, 24-10 at home, haven't allowed a single goal over their past two games. Three of their last four games have resulted in shutout wins. On the other hand, the Sabres, 11-22 on the road, have given up 10 goals in their past two games alone. They've given up at least two goals in nine straight games. Knowing they play these same Sabres at Buffalo tomorrow, look for the Jackets to "hold serve" at home here. 

I'm playing on TORONTO 8* PERS FAV. The home team has won both meetings so far this season. The Leafs won 6-3 here at Toronto. The Flyers won 2-1 at Philadelphia. Not surprising, given that both teams are much better in their own building. Going back further reveals that the Leafs have taken won four of the last six in the series. While the Flyers have more wins, the Leafs are arguably statistically superior. Both teams allow 3.0 goals per game. However, while the Flyers average 2.6 themselves, the Leafs average 3.0. With the Leafs having gotten back on track last game, I expect the home team to have the advantage again this evening. 

I'm playing on BOSTON. The Bruins are 15-8 against divisional opponents. With last night's loss, the Wings are just 6-15. The Bruins allow just 2.3 goals per game vs divisional opponents while the Wings allow more than three. While they were pretty good for a long time, the Red Wings have currently fallen on hard times. Lay the wood with the rested and superior home team. 

I'm playing on MONTREAL 8* VIOLATOR. While the Canucks have won a couple in a row, they haven't won three straight since the first week of January. Here, they'll face a red hot Montreal team which has won five straight and which has allowed just two goals in its past three games combined. While the Canucks, 9-19 against teams from the East, are 8-16 against teams with a winning record, the Habs are 19-12 against losing teams. Look for them to stay hot and take care of business against an inferior opponent. 

I'm playing on TORONTO 8* BM BEATDOWN. It might seem strange to see the Leafs favored by this much over the Wings. Detroit has been the better team for decades and the Leafs are currently struggling. I believe that the Leafs are heavy favorites for good reason though. They're well-rested and playing at home, where they still outscore teams by a modest 3.0 to 2.9 margin. The Wings, who haven't played a home game since 2/21, get outscored by a 3.2 to 2.6 margin on the road. The Leafs have played well against the Wings. Desperate to stop the bleeding, expect them to bounce back and improve to 12-8 their last 20, after allowing four or more goals. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA 10* PERS FAV. Off back-to-back losses, the Panthers should be highly motivated to get back on track. I like their chances of doing so. I respect the Rangers and I'm aware that they've been good on the road this season and also when playing the second of b2b games. That said, they've only scored five combined goals over their past four games. Last night, they couldn't find the back of the net until OT. The Panthers blanked the Rangers (3-0) the last time that the teams played here. While that was with Luongo in net, they also beat them (3-2) at MSG this season, in a game where Reimer, tonight's projected starting goalie, was between the pipes. Look for the well-rested Panthers to bounce back, improving to 10-5 the last 15 times that they scored one goal or less in their previous game. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 5*. While this line is admittedly a little steep, it could easily be higher. The Caps are 27-6 at home, the Stars are 8-22 on the road. Dallas gets outscored by an average of 3.6 to 2.4 on the road. Washington outscores teams by a commanding 3.5 to 1.6 margin here at home. While the Stars are 7-19 against winning teams, the Caps are 24-8 against losing teams. Starts are 9-16 against the East, Caps are 14-3 against the West. I'm laying the wood. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA 10* GAME OF WEEK. Given the home/away records of these teams, I feel that the Panthers are providing very fair value at this price. Florida hasn't been great at home but can still get back to .500 here (against the ml) with a win tonight. On the other hand, the Stars are a dismal 7-22 away from Dallas this season. They give up a whopping 3.7 goals per game on the road, scoring only 2.4 themselves. The Stars, who are off a 5-4 loss, are 4-13 (-10.5) after scoring four or more goals. On the other hand, the Panthers, who are off a 2-1 loss, are 9-4 (+3.8) after scoring one goal or less. I feel that the price could be higher and I'm going with the home team. *GOW

I'm playing on CAROLINA 5*. These teams will meet again on Sunday, at Arizona. With the schedule in their favor, I expect the Canes to 'hold serve' at home tonight. Both teams are much better at home. Carolina is 7-24 on the road but 18-11 at home. The Coyotes are 14-17 at home but 8-24 on the road. While Carolina had last night off, the Coyotes were busy losing a hard-fought game at Buffalo Given that they're 12-26 the past few seasons (2-8 L10) when playing the second of b2b games, I'm laying the wood with the rested home team. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH 8* PERS FAV. While I successfully played on them in their last game, a 4-3 comeback win over Carolina, I believe that the Lightning are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. The Pens are off back-to-back losses, most recently a 4-1 setback at Chicago on Wednesday. The last time that they were off b2b losses, they responded with a 3-1 win. The previous time they were off b2b losses, they snapped the skid with a 4-2 win. The last time that the Pens gave up more than three goals, prior to Wednesday, was against Detroit on 2/19. They answered with a victory, at Carolina. Including that result, they're an impressive and profitable 15-3 (+10.8) the last 18 times that they had allowed four or more goals in their previous game. Tampa, on the other hand, is 8-15 (-10.5) during the same stretch, after scoring four or more goals. With the Lightning at 12-20 on the road, the Pens at 24-7 at home and given the Pens have won four straight in the series, I'm expecting a victory for the home team and am "laying the wood."

I'm playing on BUFFALO 10* GAME OF MONTH. These teams just faced each other, at Arizona, on Sunday. The Sabres, who aren't very good on the road at the best of times, were playing the second of back-to-back road games. The Coyotes took advantage, winning by a 3-2 margin. With the venue for this evening's rematch shifting to Buffalo, I expect the Sabres to return the favor. Both teams are "respectable" at home and both are "terrible" on the road. The Sabres are 11-21 on the road but can climb back to .500 at home with a win tonight. The Coyotes are 14-17 at home but just 8-23 on the road. While the Sabres allow 2.6 goals per game at home, the Coyotes allow 3.6 gpg on the road. While the Coyotes are 6-17 (-6.8) when playing a road game with an O/U line of 5.5, the Sabres are 10-5 (+5.9) when playing a home game with an O/U line of 5.5. The Sabres limited the Coyotes to just 20 shots in last year's game here, winning by a 5-2 score. This one may not be quite that "easy" but I expect the end result to be the same. 

I'm playing on TB. The home team has won both meetings so far this season. The Canes won 1-0 at Raleigh on Dec 4. Three weeks later, on New Year's Eve, the Lightning returned the favor with a 3-1 win. Playing at home, with the schedule in their favor, I expect the Lightning to again have the advantage. While TB had last nght off, the Canes were busy battling the Panthers. This will mark their third game in four days. Bolts take advantage. 

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS 10* PERS FAV. The Blues have lost three straight games. Its just the third time this season that they've lost three in a row. After each of the previous two instances, they responded with a victory. They won those two games convincingly, too. (They won by a combined score of 7-1.) While the Oilers are certainly improved from recent seasons, they're still just 14-26 the last 40 times that they played a road game with an O/U line of less than 5.5. Playing with 'revenge' from a pair of earlier losses, look for the Blues to bounce back with a big win. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA 10* ANNIHILATOR. After an outstanding 5-0 road trip, the Panthers have returned home to a 3-game losing streak. I believe they're going to be extremely hungry to get back on track tonight and I expect them to do exactly that. While the Panthers may be "nothing special" at home, the Hurricanes are downright horrible (9-22) on the road. Both teams managed only one goal last time out, the Panthers lost 2-1 while the Canes lost 3-1. Carolina is only 7-11 after scoring one goal or less though while Florida is 8-4 after doing so. Looking to avenge a loss from earlier in the season and playing on home ice, look for the Panthers to be the team which bounces back. 

I'm playing on PHILADELPHIA *5 BM BEATDOWN. The Flyers badly need a win and the Avs figure to be the perfect opponent. While the Flyers are only a modest 17-14 at home, the Avs are a dismal 9-21 on the road. The Flyers average 2.8 goals in this building. The Avs average just 1.8 goals per road game. While the Avs managed a 5-3 win against Buffalo last time out, they're just 1-5 off a win by two or more goals. Flyers bounce back. 

I'm playing on TB 10* PERS FAV. The road team has won both meetings this season. However, this one sets up nicely for the home team. While the Lightning are well-rested, the Sens are off a hard-fought victory at Florida yesterday afternoon. This will mark their third road game in the past four days. Its also the final leg of a 4-game trip. The last time that Ottawa played two games in two days was a week ago, vs. Winnipeg. After winning at Toronto the previous day, the Sens fell 6-3 to the Jets. Including that result, they're 15-20 the past few seasons, when playing the second of back-to-back games. During that span, the Lightning are a lucrative 18-8 (+7.2) when playing with three or more day's rest. I expect them to improve on those stats here. 

I'm playing on COLUMBUS 10* GAME OF WEEK. The Isles have won three in a row. History, recent or long-term, suggests that they won't make it four in a row. The Isles have had four previous 3-game winning streaks this season. In each instance, they lost the next game. Note that they gave up 18 combined goals in those four games, too. Going back further finds them at 11-21 (-16.4) the past few seasons, off three or more consecutive wins. Going back still further finds them at a money-burning 40-76 (-45.3) in that situation. The well-rested Jackets will be motivated by the fact that they're off a loss last time out and by the fact that the Isles beat them earlier. They're 6-0 when playing with three or more day's rest in between games and 17-9 when attempting to avenge an earlier loss. With the Isles still 9-17 on the road and the Jackets still 21-10 at home, this line could easily be higher. Payback time. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 5*. The Oilers beat the Caps at Edmonton earlier in the season. Don't expect them to win here though. Not when the Caps are 24-6 at home. Not when the Caps outscore teams by an average of 3.7 to 1.7. When we consider that the Caps are 18-7 (+8.4) the last 25 times that they played with 'revenge' and 67-34 (+25.2) in the revenge role the past few seasons, this line could easily be higher. 

I'm playing on MONTREAL 10* PERS FAV. The Isles scored the 'upset' when they hosted the Habs last month. Don't expect it to happen again. Despite playing at home, where they are a much stronger team, the Canadiens aren't all that much more expensive than they were for the 1/26 game. (They were -135 for that one.) While the Canadiens are 18-12 at home, the Isles are just 8-17 on the road. The Habs outscore teams by an average score of 3.2 to 2.2 in this building, which is pretty dominating. The Isles, on the other hand, get outscored by an average of 3.2 to 2.6 on the road. The Canadiens have dominated the Isles here over the years. They're 24-12 the last 36 as a host in the series, 3-0 the past few seasons. Payback time. 

I'm playing on TB 10* ANNIHILATOR. The Lightning won at Calgary in December and they also won 3-1 when these teams met here last season. They were laying -175 for that game. Given this season's home/road stats, they could easily be laying a higher price again here. TB outscores teams by a 3.1 to 2.9 average here at home. Calgary, on the other hand, gets outscored by a 2.8 to 2.3 margin on the road. While the Flames have allowed 22 goals their last seven games, the Lightning have allowed 12. Look for the Lightning to continue their dominance in this series. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON 10* PERS FAV. The home team has won both meetings so far this season. However, I expect that to change this evening. This will be the Flyers' first game back home, off a trip to the West Coast. That can be a difficult situation, at the best of times. Making matters worse, they'll face an angry Washington team which is coming off a back-to-back losses. The Caps have only had b2b losses two other times since early December. In each previous instance, they responded with a decisive victory, snapping the skid right there. In fact, they won those two games by a combined score of 10-2. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE 8*. The Flames have had some "recent" success here at Nasvhille, winning their last few visits. They haven't played here since December of 2015 though and I expect them to receive a rude welcome back tonight. The Preds are off a win last time out, beating a good Columbus team. The Flames are off a loss last time out, losing against a bad Vancouver team. Preds are 16-13 at home, Flames are 14-16 on the road. Preds already won at Calgary and they should complete the season sweep here.

I'm playing on TORONTO 8*. The Leafs got back on track in a big way last time out, a 4-0 win over Carolina on Sunday. I expect them to build some positive momentum from that victory and for them to make it two in a row here. Off their first shutout win of the season, a 6-0 win at Colorado, the Leafs won their next game by a 4-1 score. Off their next shutout win, a 4-0 victory against Calgary, they followed it up with another 4-0 victory. While they were unable to subsequently follow up that one with a victory, they're still 2-1 off a shutout win, outscoring teams by a combined 9-3 margin. While the Jets are off back-to-back road wins, they're still only 14-19 on the road. Dealing with some injury issues and playing their third road game in four days (and fourth in six) I expect it to catch up with them here. The Jets have enjoyed some success in this series in recent seasons and they beat the Leafs, at Winnipeg, back in October. Some of you may recall that I successfully backed the Jets in that game. I say the Leafs get some payback tonight.

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS 10* NON-CONF GAME OF YEAR. While they were a little lucky to win their last one, the Panthers have had a great road trip. However, this is the final leg of it and I expect their good fortune to finally run out. While they lost last time out, the Blues had previously won six straight. So, they too have been hot. 

While the Blues are 12-5 (+4.9) when playing a home game with an O/U line of less than 5.5, the Panthers are just 9-15 (-5.7) when playing a road game with an O/U line of less than 5.5

Look for the trip to catch up to the Panthers, the Blues bouncing back and improving to 30-12 their last 42, when facing a sub-500 team in the second half of the season.

I'm playing on NEW YORK 8* PERS FAV. These teams just met at NJ yesterday. The Devils won 3-2. Playing at home and with immediate 'revenge,' I expec the Isles to return the favor here. While the Devils are 12-18 on the road, the Isles are 19-14 at home. NJ gets outscored by a 2.8 to 2.3 margin on the road, NYI outscore teams by a 3.2 to 2.8 average score here. The Isles beat the Devils, on this exact day (2/19/16) last year. History repeats iself, the revenge-minded Isles bouncing back and moving to 8-2 (5-0 at home) the last 10 in the series. 

I'm playing on LA 10* PERS FAV. The Panthers have cost me recently but their luck runs out here. While the Kings had last night off, the Panthers were busy beating Anaheim. In addition to playing their second game in two nights, this will mark their third game in the past four days, all of them thousands of miles away from home. The Panthers, 4-6 when playing the second of b2b games, are also 4-6 off a win by two or more goals. On the other hand, the Kings are 10-5, when off a loss by two or more goals. The Kings have dominated the Panthers here over the years. Last year, laying -185, they outshot them by a 35-19 margin and won 4-1. Catching them in a tough scheduling spot, I'm expecting a similar result. 

I'm playing on SJ 10* VIOLATOR. The Coyotes beat them back on 2/4 and the Sharks haven't been right ever since. This evening, they can make things right by avenging that loss. With a lucrative 69-41 (+16) record in the 'revenge' role the past few seasons, I expect the Sharks to do exacty that. The Sharks were laying nearly -300 for the last two meetings, both at SJ. However, with the game at Arizona, we can get them at a far more palatable price. Given that the Sharks are very capable on the road and the Coyotes have no home ice advantage, that suits me just fine. The Sharks outscore teams by a 2.9 to 2.6 average on the road, the Coyotes get outscored by a 2.9 to 2.6 average here at Phoenix. Payback time. 

I'm playing on MONTREAL 8* ANNIHILATOR. The Canadiens are off an extended break. It probably came at exactly the right time for them, too. Prior to their time off, the Habs had lost back-to-back games and six of their previous seven. The break allowed them a chance to get healthy and regroup. They're going to be highly motivated to return with a victory; the last thing that they want to do is to start losing again. 

Recent problems notwithstanding, there are still plenty of positives for the Habs. They've still got the most points in the Atlantic Division. They're still 18-11 at home. The Jets, 12-19 away from Winnipeg, and 5th in the Central, would love to be in a similar position. While the Canadiens are 17-10 (+4) against sub-500 teams, the Jets are 8-14 (-4.5) against teams with a winning record. 

Look for the refreshed Canadiens, who already handled the Jets by a 7-4 margin at Winnipeg and who have won 21 of the past 29 meetings with the Jets here at Montreal, to bounce back with an important win. 

I'm playing on ANAHEIM 10* PERS FAV. Given the situation and venue, this price could easily be higher. The Panthers beat the Ducks exactly two weeks ago, at Florida. However, tonight's rematch is at Anaheim. That makes a significant difference as the Panthers are just 11-17 away from Florida while the Ducks are 17-9 here at Anaheim. The game at Florida marked the start of a road trip for the Ducks and they haven't played here since. I think the Ducks are going to be a extra hungry to start the homestand with a win. 

The Panthers, who are off a 6-5 victory, are 3-8 (-4.6) after scoring four or more goals in their previous game. On the other hand, the Ducks, who are off a 1-0 win at Minnesota, are 9-3 (+5.9) after scoring one or less. Expect the revenge-minded Ducks to get some payback, returning home and improving to 30-14 the last 44 times that they played their previous three (or more) on the road. 

I'm playing on SJ. The Sharks, 34-19 (+10.5) the past 2+ seasons when playing with two day's rest in between games, got back on track with a solid 4-1 win at NJ on Sunday. Back home, they should have a solid advantage tonight. The Panthers, who won 7-4 last time out, are just 2-8 (-5.9) the past 10 times that they scored four or more goals in their previous game. For the season, the Panthers are 10-17 on the road, getting outscored by an average of 2.8 to 2.4. On the other hand, the Sharks are 18-9 here at home, outscoring teams by an average score of 2.6 to 2.1. The Sharks outshoot teams by a commanding 31.3 to 25.9 average here. They swept the Panthers last season, including a 5-2 win here. They already beat them at Florida this season and I expect more of the same tonight. 

I'm playing on OTTAWA 10* GAME OF WEEK. These teams met at Buffalo 10 days ago. The Sabres won that one by a score of 4-0, triggering a 2-game slide which saw Ottawa get outscored by a combined 10-0 score. The Sens have since turned it around, however, and are off back-to-back solid wins. Last time out, they blanked the Isles by a 3-0 score. They'll have payback on their minds here. Note that they're a profitable 62-47 (+21.2) the past few seasons, when playing with "revenge." While the Sens are a modest 16-14 at home, the Sabres are just 10-19 on the road. Look for the Sens to get some payback, moving to 12-8 (+5.8) the last 20 times that they were coming off a shutout win. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE 8* PERS FAV. While the Preds are a modest 15-13 at home, the Stars are a dismal 7-19 on the road. The Preds outscore teams by an average of 2.9 to 2.4 here at home. The Stars get outscored by an ugly 3.7 to 2.4 average margin on the road. Not surprisingly, the home team has won the last two meetings, the Stars winning 5-2 at Dallas the Preds winning 5-2 here at Nashville. Both teams played yesterday. The fact that the Preds lost while the Stars won figures to provide Nashville with some extra motivation. With the Stars 1-10 (-10.6!) off a win by two or more goals and the Preds 9-5 (+2.2) off a loss by two or more, I'm laying the price with the home team. 

I'm playing on MINNESOTA 5* BIG JUICE ANNIHILATOR. The Wild are obviously pretty heavy favorites here. A little higher than I'd normally prefer to go. That said, given the schedule and venue, I believe this is a matchup that they win eight times out of 10. While the Wings are 11-16 away from Detroit, the Wild are 18-7 at home. The Wings get outscored by a 3.2 to 2.5 average margin on the road. The Wild outscore teams by a dominant 3.4 to 2.0 average here at Minnesota. The Wings, who are playing their second game in two days, are just 6-13 in the second half of the season overall. The Wild, who had yesterday off and who are 14-6 against Eastern Conf. teams, are 13-5 in the second half. The home team won both meetings last season, the Wild winning 3-1 here at Minnesota. While anything can certainly happen in a hockey game, I see little reason not to expect another win for the home team here.

I'm playing on BOSTON 5* BREAKFAST CLUB. The Bruins, who can climb back above the .500 mark here at home with a win, outshoot teams by a commanding 35.2 to 25.6 average margin in this building. By comparison, the Canucks get outshot by a 32.5 to 29.4 mark on the road. While they did score an upset last time out, they're still just 7-19 away from Vancouver. The early start time figures to favor the home team, too, against their West-Coast based visitors. With the Canucks at 5-16 on the road, when the O/U line was less than 5.5, and the Bruins at 11-5 at home, when the O/U line was less than 5.5, I'm laying the wood with the home team.

I'm playing on MINNESOTA 8*. Given the home/road records of these teams, this line could easily be higher. Tampa is 10-18 on the road. Minnesota is 17-7 at home. The home team won both meetings last season, the Wild taking the game here by a 1-0 score. Including that result, that Wild are 8-2 their last 10 as a host in the series. With TB at 5-11 off a win by two or more goals and Minnesota at 8-4 after allowing four or more, I'm laying the price with the home team. 

I'm playing on COLUMBUS 5* BEATDOWN. While the line may initially appear steep, it could actually easily be even higher. The Blue Jackets continue to dominate Western Conference opponents. They're 46-33 (+22.6) against teams from the west the past 2+ seasons and that includes a commanding 16-7 (+9.7) mark this season. Conversely, the Canucks are just 7-15 against teams from the Eastern Conference. The Jackets haven't been at their very best of late but they are off a win last time out and they're still 18-7 at home. The Canucks, on the other hand, have dropped four straight overall and are 6-19 on the road. The Canucks, who average only 2.2 goals per road game, have been outscored by a 17-6 margin in losing their last four. Facing a Columbus team which outscores teams by a 3.5 to 2.2 average here, that spells trouble. 

I'm playing on SJ 10* ANNIHILATOR. Not only are the Sharks the superior team but they've also got the schedule in their favor. While the Sharks are well-rested, the Sabres are off a tough 2-1 loss at NJ last night. This will mark their third game in the past four days. The Sharks, who will be motivated to start their road trip off on the right foot and to bounce back from an upset loss against Arizona, have thrived on the road in recent seasons. They won here last year and they're better on the road than the Sabres are at home once again this season. The Sharks are 34-18 (+12.1) the past 2+ seasons, when playing with 2-day's rest in between games. This season, they're 16.6 (+7.4) against teams from the Eastern Conference. With the Sabres only 3-9 (22-41 L2+ seasons!) when playing at home with an O/U line of less than 5.5, I'm backing the visitors. 

I'm playing on NEW YORK 8* BEST BET. The Islanders closed out January by winning six of their last seven games. Off that winning run, arguably their best stretch of the season, they've started out February with a pair of losses. Those losses combined with the fact that their next two games are on the road - and that they'll play these same Leafs, at Toronto, on Valentine's Day, should provide us with a motivated Islander team tonight. While they've really struggled on the road, the Isles are respectable here at home. They're better here than the Leafs are on the road, at least. The Isles won 5-1 when the teams met here early in the season. At a pick'em price, I like their chances of a repeat performance here. 

I'm playing on NYR 8* PERS FAV. While neither of these teams has been particularly strong on home ice, I expect the home team to have the advantage this afternoon. The Flames get outscored by an average of 2.8 to 2.6 on the season. On the other hand, the Rangers outscore teams by an average of 3.4 to 2.7. That's a pretty significant difference and it says a lot about the talent gap between these teams. 

While they've struggled here at MSG, the Rangers are determined to improve here. Coach Vigneault noted: "We're aware of our home record ... in all the games, we've had some stretches, we've had some pushes where we've played really well and it'd just a matter of putting everything together."

NY forward J.T. Miller added: "Your building is supposed to be hard to come in and play there. We've got to get back to that ... " 

Look for the Rangers, who are both big and fast, as well as a dominant 15-5 against teams from the West, to do just that. 

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH 10* SIDE OF THE YEAR. The Blue Jackets put together an extremely impressive run before the break. In the middle of their 16-game winning streak, the Jackets won a game by a score of 7-1, their most lopsided victory of that winning streak. That game happened to come against the Penguins. Needless to say, Crosby and co. haven't forgotten.

Since their streak ended, the Jackets have been merely mediocre. While they won last time out, they're 6-7 their last 13 games. On the other hand, off a win last time out, the Pens have won five of their last seven.

As seen in the loss at Columbus, they've had trouble on the road this season. In fact, the Pens are just 10-13 away from Pittsburgh. However, they're a different team here on home ice. Indeed, they've got a dominant 21-5 (21-3-2) record here, which is the best home ice record in the entire league. The highest scoring team in the league, the Pens average better than four goals (4.1) per game here. Remarkable offensive numbers. 

Both teams are well-rested and both have thrived when playing with 2-days rest. I believe the revenge-minded Pens are going to be a little hungrier tonight though, Crosby leading them to a 12-5 mark the last 17 times that they attempted to avenge an earlier loss. Payback time. *GOY

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS 8*. These teams will meet in exactly one week, at Toronto. While the Leafs could easily take that one, I like the Blues to hold serve at home tonight. The Leafs are 12-14 away from Toronto, the Blues are 15-12 here at home. Neither team was happy with its defensive effort last time out; the Leafs lost 6-3, the Blues lost 5-3. The Leafs are just 32-46 (-9.1) the past couple of seasons, after allowing four or more goals. During the same stretch, the Blues were 38-28 (+4.3) after allowing four or more. Given the venue, the Blues could easily command a higher price.

I'm playing on CHICAGO 10*. The Hawks in this matchup. If these teams were meeting at Chicago the Hawks, who are the much stronger team, would be too expensive to play on. However, with the game being played at Arizona, we can get them at a relatively reasonable price. The Hawks have no trouble playing here though as they're 3-0 here the past couple of seasons. While the Hawks are above .500 on the road, the Coyotes are only 11-14 here. With the Hawks off three straight losses, the Coyotes are going to get their full attention tonight, too. The well-coached Hawks are a profitable 7-2 (+4.2) the past 2+ seasons, when off three or more consecutive losses. They won at Nashville, a much tougher  venue than this one, the only previous time this season that they lost three straight. While the Hawks are 19-10 against losing teams, the Coyotes are 4-15 against winning teams. I'm laying the wood

I'm playing on DALLAS 8*. These teams have met three times, all three games coming early in the season. In all three cases, the home team won. Playing here at Dallas, the Stars won the first meeting. The Jets responded by taking each of the next two, both at Winnipeg. The most recent meeting resulted in an 8-2 win for the Jets and that one figures to to have stuck in the Stars' memories. They'll be hungry to get some payback against a team which embarrassed them. Off b2b wins, the Stars have climbed over the .500 mark at home. With the Jets at just 11-17 away from Winnipeg, I expect the Stars to avenge the earlier loss, moving to 21-10 (+11.8) the past 2+ seasons, after playing three or more consecutive home games. 

I'm playing on ST. LOUIS 10* PERS FAV. The Blues will have payback on their minds as they recently lost at Winnipeg. In fact, the Jets also beat them here at St. Louis back in early December. Given the home/road records of each team, I don't see it happening again. While the Jets are a somewhat respectable 13-12 at home, they're only 10-17 on the road. Meanwhile, the Blues are just 9-14 on the road but 15-11 here at St. Louis. Even with the December loss, the Blues are still 6-2 the last eight times that they hosted the Jets. I expect them to improve on those stats here, returning from the break with an important victory. 

I'm playing on DETROIT. While both these teams have certainly struggled, I still believe that the Wings bring a little more to the table. Getting them, at home, at this price is a bargain. The Wings already beat the Devils, at NJ. The Devils, 0-3 when playing with three or more day's rest, are just 18-38 (-12.8) their last 56, when attempting to avenge an earlier home loss. Look for the Wings to benefit more from the break, bouncing back and improving to 15-11 their past 26, after losing three or more in a row.