5*Calgary Flames -125

The Flames have yet to win this season despite a +31 shot differential. The Red Wings have two wins despite a -20 shot differential. Calgary is by far the more talented team. The Flames season point total was 92.5, while Detroit was pegged for 78.5 points before the season started. Calgary is 6-1 in their past seven games when playing with two days of rest. This line should be closer to -145 in my opinion. Take the road team!

4*Carolina Hurricanes -107

This is a great line on one of the most complete teams in all of hockey. Carolina's season point total is 95.5 while Nashville's was set at 84.5 before the season began. Here's my main handicap. These teams played a preseason game on October 9th. Nashville won by one goal, despite getting out-shot 37-17. Carolina is 21-8 in their past 29 regular season meetings against Nashville. Take the Hurricanes before this line goes up!

3*New York Islanders +153

The Islanders scored three unanswered goals in game six to force this game seven. The last time New York played in Tampa Bay was a non-effort in losing 8-0. The Islanders have won the Face-off battle in four of the six games. All the pressure is on the Lightning. Lets take the juicy underdog and watch the Islanders advance to the Stanley Cup Finals for the first time since 1984.

3*Las Vegas Golden Knights -145

The Golden Knights have a +101 shot differential while the Montreal Canadiens have a -30 shot differential this postseason. Very few NHL teams make the Stanley Cup Finals when allowing more goals (165) than goals scored (158) during the regular season. On the flip side, Vegas scored 190 and allowed 122. The Golden Knights have won the Face-off battle in three straight and already won in Montreal. Vegas is 13-4 when playing with one day rest off a loss. Montreal is 10-14 when playing one day rest off a win. I like the road team!

3*New York Islanders +130

The Islanders return home after an embarrassing 8-0 loss in game five. The Islanders are 19-7 in game six of playoff series, the best record of any NHL team. Tampa Bay scored three Power-Play goals and now must play on the road. Tough. New York should feed off the energy of their home crowd. Light play on the Islanders!

10*New York Islanders +115

The Islanders outshot and outhit the Lightning in Thursday's one goal loss. New York created more scoring chances and were the more physical team. Barry Trotz is a really good coach and I have a lot of faith in this squad. In the conference finals, it's very difficult for a team to win two straight on the road. I'm all over the Islanders in this spot!

5*New York Islanders +121

The Islanders home and road splits in all key stats are very telling. New York enjoys a nice home ice advantage and the crowd should be very rambunctious. Barry Trotz will be able to match-up exactly how he wants. I think the Islanders are the right side at a nice price in game three.

4*Carolina Hurricanes +109

The Lightning scored three Power-Play goals in Saturday's victory and have scored five PP goals in their past two games. Carolina has been excellent at home after allowing three or more PP goals. Closeout games are tough on the road. I look for the Hurricanes to extend this series with a big win.

5*Las Vegas Golden Knights +103

The Knights dropped a tough one in OT despite outshooting Colorado 41-25. They also hit the goal-post five times. Las Vegas has one of the best home ice advantages in all of hockey. I like the home team quite a bit to get back in the series.

10*Carolina Hurricanes -105

The Hurricanes will have roughly 15,000 fans at PNC arena. Carolina went 23-3-3-2 at home and should benefit from being able to matchup (line changes) against the Lightning as they see fit. Tampa Bay had a -40 shot differential against the Panthers while Carolina had a +48 shot differential against Nashville. The Hurricanes went 3-1 at home against Tampa Bay while outshooting the Lightning 139-110. Carolina has the better Face-off win percentage and the more disciplined team. Tampa Bay is ranked No. 31 in penalty minutes. I also like Carolina to win the series in six or seven games.

4*Pittsburgh Penguins +100

The Penguins dropped a tough one on Monday in overtime despite outshooting the Islanders 50-28. Closeout games against talented skaters are tough. Pittsburgh is 12-3 with playing with one day of rest off a loss. I like the Penguins in this spot!

4*Edmonton Oilers -114

The Jets won the first two games of the series despite getting outshot in both games by a combined 71-58. These Canadian teams are big rivalries and I just don't see any team winning three in a row. Take the Oilers in this must-win game!

5*Florida Panthers +128

Don't forget, the Panthers finished the regular season with four more points than Tampa Bay (79-75). These teams have split ten games this season. Florida owns a 355-282 shot differential. The Panthers should bring a maximum effort knowing they can't afford to down 3-0. Big rivalry and I'll take the Panthers in this must-win game.

3*Florida Panthers +112

The Panthers allowed three power-play goals and one short-handed goal in Sunday's 5-4 setback. They outplayed the Lightning for most of the game. Florida had 54 hits while Tampa Bay dished out 36. Take the home team!

4*Calgary Flames +123

The Flames have outshot eight of their past 10 foes while Edmonton has been outshot in eight of their past 10 games. The Oilers won yesterday despite getting outshot and won fewer Face-offs. The game was physical as the Jets dished out 38 hits while Edmonton hit Winnipeg 24 times. The Flames have a +56 shot differential while the Oilers are -65 this season. Great spot for the road team!

4*Florida Panthers +140

Tampa Bay defeated the Panthers in overtime despite getting outshot 38-19 on Thursday. The Lightning have been outshot in four of their past five games. The Panthers are ranked No. 6 in shot differential (+170) this season. Tampa Bay is still without Steve Stamkos and they have a revenge against Carolina on deck. I like the road team in this spot!

4*Boston Bruins -114

The Islanders are 5-0 against Boston this season with the past two games going into overtime/shootout. The Bruins have outshot New York in three of the five games. The Bruins are ranked No. 3 in shot differential (+183) and should be pumped-up in this one. Boston is ranked No. 1 in Face-off win percentage. The Islanders are coming off a two-game series with rival New York Rangers. Seems like a good fade spot especially since New York has been off since playing on Sunday. Take the Bruins!

4*Calgary Flames +100

The Oilers are coming off a phony 3-1 victory at Ottawa as they were outshot 40-23 on Thursday. In fact, Edmonton has been outshot in six of their past seven games. The Oilers have a -46 shot differential while the Flames are +4 this season. This will be Edmonton's third game in four nights. I like the Flames in this spot!

5*Pittsburgh Penguins +108

The Penguins have allowed 15 goals in their past two games, including an 8-4 loss at New York on Tuesday. The Rangers scored three power-play goals and scored one goal short-handed. Pittsburgh outshot the Rangers 45-20 and won 59% of the Face-offs. In fact, the Rangers are ranked No. 31 in Face-off win percentage this season. Pittsburgh is well-coached and should learn from their past mistakes. Take the Penguins!  

5*LA Kings -114

The Kings and Coyotes have split four meetings this season with each team winning both games on the road. Arizona has won two straight against LA despite getting outshot 80-56 combined. The Coyotes scored three power-play goals in their last game, and will now be playing its third game in four nights and fourth game in six days. Tough. The LA Kings are ranked No. 10 in Face-off win percentage while Arizona is ranked No. 24 this season. Finally, Arizona is ranked dead last in shot differential (-192) in all of hockey. I really like the LA kings in this spot!

5*LA Kings -125

San Jose defeated the Kings on March 22nd by one goal despite getting outshot 42-23. San Jose defeated the Kings by two goals despite getting outshot 44-28 on March 24th. The LA kings are a feisty bunch having just won in Vegas (Knights) against a very good team. LA has a 0 goal differential while San Jose has a -24 goal differential this season. The Kings are ranked 11th in Face-off win percentage while the Sharks are ranked 24th. Take the home team in this revenge spot!

5*Toronto Maple Leafs -134

These teams have split four meetings this season with Toronto owning a 137-110 shot differential. The Maple Leafs have a +100 shot differential while the Jets have a -68 shot differential this season. Toronto is ranked 7th in Face-off win percentage while the Jets are ranked 21st. This will be the Jets 4th game in six days. Tough. I like the road team!  

5*LA Kings +101

The LA Kings own the more efficient offense, defense, power-play, penalty-kill, Face-off win percentage, and penalty minutes per game. San Jose defeated the LA Kings 2-1 despite getting outshot 42-23 on Monday. I'm all over the road team in this spot!

3*Dallas Stars +143

Despite their current won/loss record, the Stars have one of the best home stats in all of Hockey. They own a +5.5 shot differential which might surprise Jo public. Dallas averages 3.19 goals per game while allowing 2.31 at American Airlines Center this season. Tampa Bay is 4-0 SU past four, but have been outshot in their last two games by a combined 63-53 mark. The Stars are 4-6 SU in their past 10 games despite outshooting nine of 10 foes by a combined 103-64 mark. Tampa Bay defeated Dallas in both games this season by two goals and one goal respectively. In the first game, TB scored an Empty-netter with five seconds on the clock. The second game was decided in an overtime shootout exactly one week ago. Take the Stars!

4*Toronto Maple Leafs -148

The Maple Leafs dropped its third in a row despite outshooting the Flames 27-18 last night. Toronto only managed seven blocked shots (season-low) while the Flames were able to block 29 shots. The Maple Leafs are by far the more efficient team. Toronto sports a +60 shot differential while the Flames check in at -8. The Maple Leafs have a +23 goal differential while Calgary has a -9 goal differential this season. This will be Flames 4th game in six days and they are just 1-4 in that role of late. Take the home team! 

3*New York Rangers +123

The Rangers outshot the Capitals 33-18 despite losing by one goal last night. Washington is flying high, but there are red flags. During their current seven game win streak, the Caps have been out shot by a combined 211-172. The Caps have a -33 shot differential while the Rangers own a +24 shot differential this season. Washington has a +15 goal differential while the Rangers are +9 this season. New York has two wins against the Capitals this season. It's a great spot for the road team!

3*Washington Capitals -140

The Capitals are 0-2 against the Rangers this season despite outshooting NY in both games. They should be super focused while trying to win 10 of their past 11 games. Washington is scoring 3.7 goals per game while allowing 2.3 per game during this hot streak. The Rangers scored seven goals in the 2nd period of their 9-0 win against Philadelphia on Wednesday. Major fade bate. The Capitals 6-1 of late against New York in Washington, and I like them when playing with two days of rest. The Rangers are ranked 31st in Face-off win percentage. Take the Caps!

5*Calgary Flames -108

The Flames are playing a more structured, up-tempo game since new head coach Darryl Sutter has taken over. Edmonton is 3-1 against the Flames this season, but Calgary is a completely different team schematically right now. The Oilers will be playing its third game in four days and fifth game in eight days. I like the Flames in this spot! 

4*Philadelphia Flyers -115

The Flyers are 1-2 in their past three games despite outshooting all three opponents by a combined 103-68 margin. Both losses were against these Capitals. Washington is 3-0 in their past three despite getting outshot in all three games by a combined 101-79 mark. The Flyers are ranked No. 3 in Face-off win percentage while the Capitals are ranked No. 23 this season. Take the hungry host!

4*Calgary Flames -114

The Flames have dropped two straight games despite outshooting both opponents. Darryl Sutter takes over as head coach and the team should be fired-up. Montreal will playing its second straight game in as many days and third game in four nights. Take the Flames! 

5*LA Kings -110

The Ducks return home after playing two straight OT games at high-altitude in Colorado. Anaheim won Saturday's game despite getting out-shot 33-27. The Ducks were also out-shot 34-28 in Friday's loss. The Kings defeated the Blues in OT on Saturday while out-shooting St. Louis 34-25 at Staples. Both teams will be playing its third game in four days. This favors the road team who hasn't had to travel.  The Ducks defeated the Kings at Staples back in Feb. The Kings managed a season-low 21 shots-on-goal. Losing NHL teams have struggled returning home after playing in Colorado. I like the road team in this spot!

5*Edmonton Oilers +102

Toronto is 4-2 against Edmonton this season including two straight shutouts this past Saturday and again on Monday. It's very difficult to defeat a team in three straight games. The Oilers outshot the Maple Leafs in both games by a combined 61-52 margin. Toronto is playing without their leading scorer and top goalie. Edmonton has outshot Toronto in five of the six meetings this season. Take the hungry host! 

3*Dallas Stars +180

The Lightning defeated the Stars 5-0 at home on Saturday. They outshot Dallas 21-20 which is not that impressive considering the final score. The Stars are very competitive at home allowing just 26.5 shots-on-goal per game. They average 3.38 goals per game while allowing 2.25. On the road, Tampa Bay is averaging 3.00 goals per game while allowing 2.44. I think is line is way too high and see good value on the home team.

5*Carolina Hurricanes -120

Florida is coming off a very physical series which featured a lot of hits and a lot of shots-on-goal. The Panthers took two out of three against the Stars. In the past two games combined, Florida had 72 hits while the Stars dished out 71 of their own. Carolina has dropped three straight all against the defending champs. The Hurricanes outshot the Lightning in two of three, including 32-22 in Thursday's game. Both teams will be playing its third game in four days. This favors the road team who are quite frankly pissed off. The Hurricanes are ranked No. 2 in Face-off win percentage while Florida is ranked No. 21 in Face-off win percentage this season. I'm all over the Hurricanes in this one!

4*Boston Bruins -123

The Bruins have dropped both games against the Islanders this season. Boston has been outshot by just two (59-57) in both games combined. Boston has a +102 shot differential while the Islanders have a +32 shot differential this season. Boston has a +15 goal differential while New York has a +1 goal differential. This will be the Islanders sixth game in 10 days and they've played two more games than the Bruins this season. Boston is 9-2 in their past 11 games with three or more days of rest and 18-5 in their past 23 games in New York. Take the road team! 

10*Edmonton Oilers -135

The Jets defeated the Oilers by one goal despite getting outshot 45-24 on Monday. Edmonton dished out 37 hits while Winnipeg only managed 17 hits. Edmonton had a lot more scoring chances and should be fired-up in this one. The Oilers are ranked 7th at home in Face-off win percentage while the Jets are ranked 25th on the road. Winnipeg owns a minus -9.2 shot differential in road games, which is one of the worst marks in all of hockey. The Jets are 2-4 after a win while Edmonton is 3-2 after a loss. Finally, the Jets have a big revenge tilt against Vancouver on deck. Take the Oilers!

3*Florida Panthers +123

Tampa Bay has scored five Power-Play goals in their past two games combined and will be without three key starters, including stud forward Steve Stamkos. We had Florida as a big underdog against Tampa Bay and I think the Panthers can win again tonight.

3*Florida Panthers +152

This is a big rivalry game between two teams from the Sunshine state. Yes, the Lightning have the better stats, but have also played one of the easiest schedules so far. The Panthers, who are chasing the first-placed Lightning in the Central division are off to one of their better starts in franchise history at 7-1-2. I think this line is way too high. Florida is well-coached and have been great in one-goal games this season. Take the Panthers at this sweet price!

4*Calgary Flames -115

I think the Flames had this game circled ever since the schedule was released. On Feb. 1st 2020, the Oilers embarrassed the Flames 8-3 in Calgary. Edmonton has scored 16 goals in their past three games and now must play a road game. That's tough, especially since Edmonton has struggled when playing with three or more days of rest. The Flames are +6 in shot differential while Edmonton checks in at -18 so far this season. Calgary has the better defense, penalty-kill and goalie. The Flames are 7-3 in the past 10 meetings. Make it 8-3 after tonight. I like the home team in this spot!

4*NY Islanders +108

The Flyers have been outshot in seven of eight games this season. They actually have the worst shot differential margin of all winning teams. Semyon Varlamov has won five consecutive regular season starts against the Flyers with a 2.56 goals-against average. Head coach Barry Trotz has been really good at guiding his teams to a victory after losing three or more games in a row. Finally, the Flyers have two big same-season revenge games against Boston on deck. Take the Islanders in this one! 

5*NY Rangers -107

The Rangers have dropped four games in a row (all by one goal) despite outshooting every foe by a combined 140-99 mark. The Sabres have scored a total of five Power Play goals in their past two games, winning both. This is a great spot to fade them. New York is eager to end its losing streak and they have the stats of a winning team. Take the road team!

4*New York Islanders -126

The Islanders' head coach is Barry Trotz, who led the Capitals to a Stanley Cup victory three years ago. New York is coming off a non-effort and should be pumped-up facing Trotz's former team. Due to injuries and Covid, the Capitals are missing their best five players including stud goalie Samsonnov. The Capitals are allowing more shots than they take, including four of their past five tilts. Washington has played four straight overtime/shootout games. Tough. The Islanders are ranked first in Face-Off win percentage while Washington is ranked 27th. I like the road team in this spot!

5*Boston Bruins -130

This will be Flyers third game in four days. Tough. Philadelphia has been outshot in every game this season by a combined 126-176 mark. The Bruins have a deep talented roster and they have been really good when playing with two days of rest over the past two seasons. I like Boston in this spot!

4*LA Kings +128

The Kings blew a 3-1 lead in the third period against the Wild on Thursday. Minnesota won 4-3 in OT despite getting outshot 34-27. The Kings' defense made silly mistakes that should not happen again. The Kings won 61% of the Face-offs and love the value here on Saturday night.

4*Washington Capitals -130

The last time Buffalo played a game was roughly 10 months ago against these Washington Capitals. The Sabres won 3-2 in OT despite getting outshot 35-26 last March. Washington is loaded on offense, and now on defense with the additions of Zdeno Chara and Justin Schultz. I love Ilya Samsonov in Goal full time after going 16-6 with a 2.55 GAA last season. Washington had almost five months off and they're by far the more talented team. Take the Caps!

5*Tampa Bay Lightning -160

I think the Lightning are by far the more talented team. Check this out. Tampa Bay outshot the Islanders by a combined 213-165 in their six-game series. On the flip side, Dallas got outshot by a combined 166-118  against Las Vegas in five games. In the playoffs, Tampa Bay has a +4 shot differential while the Stars have a minus -2 shot differential. Very few teams win the Stanley Cup with that negative stat. I think the Lightning have too much team speed for this Stars' team. Dallas has five days of rest while playing 3 more games than TB in the postseason. The Lightning have been great when staying in rhythm (1 day rest) for quite some time. If this game was -140 or less it would have been for 10 units. Take the Lightning to win the series as well (-180)!

3*New York Islanders +140

The Islanders have responded well to adversary since the bubble restart. They are 2-0 after dropping two in a row. New York outshout TB 28-21 in that tough one goal setback, and rank #2 in shots against in the playoffs. Lets take the underdog Islanders in a must win game, as we all remember everyone who passed away on 9/11/01. 

5*Philadelphia Flyers +111

The Flyers are the #1 seed in the East and should be super focused in this game. They will look to carry momentum from Sunday's loss after outshooting New York 17-3 in the 3rd period and 38-33 overall. Closeout games are always the toughest for teams that are up 3-1. The Flyers are 12-4 after a loss when playing with one day of rest. Take Philly! 

4*Boston Bruins +100

The Bruins will look to bounce back after its worst playoff setback in 30 years. They should be super focused knowing to come back from a 3-1 deficit is very tough. The Bruins are ranked 6th in Face-off win percentage while Tampa Bay is ranked 19th since the restart. Boston is 14-7 when playing with two days of rest while TB is just 5-7 in that same role this season. I like the Boston Bruins in this one!

10*Colorado Avalanche -135

The Stars are 6-1 against Colorado this season, despite getting outshot in every game except one by a combined 273-221 mark. The stars have been outshot in three straight including 40-27 in Monday's win. Dallas is ranked 29th in goals scored while the Avs are ranked 3rd this season. Colorado is too talented to drop three straight games in the playoffs. Dallas has scored 10 goals in their past two games and must now play a very hungry team. I'm all over the Avs in this spot! 

5*St. Louis Blues -140

The Blues have not won a game since the restart and they know this is a must win game. I like the way St. Louis is playing, except for some silly mistakes in the final period. The Blues outshot the Canucks 31-22 in game one. That's a great sign. St. Louis allowed three power play goals and should be much better in game two. I love fading teams after scoring 3 or more power play goals in the postseason. Take the St. Blues in the spot!

3*Nashville Predators -130

The Coyotes defeated the Preds on Wednesday despite getting out-shot 40-27. In fact, Nashville has out-shot Arizona in all three games since the restart. Arizona has not played great off a win with just one day of rest. Nashville is ranked 4th in Face-off win percentage while Arizona is ranked 21st. I like the Predators in this spot!  

4*Carolina Hurricanes -125

Carolina went 0-4 against New York this season. The Rangers outscored Carolina by a margin of 17-9 — inflated by two empty-netters — but were out-shot 161 to 104. That’s a massive shot differential. Carolina ranked 3rd in the league (54.4%) while the Rangers ranked 28th (48%) in that very important stat. The Hurricanes have the better special teams, defense, Face-Off win percentage, and they are the more disciplined team. I think the Hurricanes will be super focused in this first game back!

5*Toronto Maple Leafs +101

The Lightning will be playing its 3rd game in four days and have been outshot in three of their past four tilts. The Maple Leafs have lost three in a row and should be pumped-up at home. Toronto is 5-1 when playing with three or more days of rest. The Maple Leafs are ranked 3rd in Face-off win percentage and they are by far the more disciplined team. Tampa Bay has committed 293 penalties (3rd most) in 69 games while Toronto has committed just 215 penalties (5th fewest) in 69 games. Take the hungry host!

3*Florida Panthers -120

The Panthers have outshot their past three opponents by a significant margin but have nothing to show for it. Florida has a lot of team speed and will be playing a Canadiens team that will be short handed dealing with injuries and the Flu. The home team has dominated this series of late and the favorite is 20-6. Light play on the Panthers!

4*Boston Bruins +105

This just might be a preview of the Eastern Conference Finals. The Bruins are ranked 9th (+129) in shot differential while Tampa Bay is ranked 14th (+41) this season. Boston is ranked 1st in goal differential while Tampa Bay is ranked 3rd. I like the fact that Tampa Bay has played a lot of games in a shorter span of time. Boston is 11-5 when playing with two days rest. Tampa Bay is 4-5 and have played the most games this season with just one day rest. I think that's one of the reasons why TB has been slumping of late. Missing Steven Stamkos is another. I like Boston in this one!

10*Toronto Maple Leafs -110

The Maple Leafs are 0-2 against the Panthers this season despite outshooting them in both games by a combined 71-50 mark. Florida defeated Toronto 8-4 despite getting outshot 47-29 on Jan. 12th. Florida defeated Toronto 5-3 despite getting outshot 34-21 on Feb. 3rd. The Maple Leafs have the better offense and defense. Toronto is ranked 4th in shots-on-goal and will be facing a tired Panthers' blue line. Florida returns home from a long five game road trip in 9 days. Tough. Florida went 3-2 SU, but have been outshot in five straight games. Toronto is ranked 3rd in Face-off win percentage while the Panthers are ranked 14th. I'm all over the Maple Leafs in this spot!

4*Washington Capitals +118

The Capitals have dropped two straight and will be playing with 2 days of rest. They are one of the best teams over the past five seasons with 2 days rest. It's a great spot for this revenge game as Colorado defeated Washington earlier this season. We note, the Capitals outshot Colorado and had more scoring chances. I like the Caps!

4*Nashville Predators -110

The Canucks are 2-0 against the Predators this season despite getting outshot 85-49. Nashville is ranked #6 (+161) in shot differential while Vancouver is ranked 26th (-108) this season. The Predators are ranked 6th in shots allowed while the Canucks are ranked 28th. Vancouver has played two additional games so far this season. I'll be on the road team in this one!

5*Carolina Hurricanes -115

The Hurricanes are coming off a non-effort allowing 6 goals to the Blues on Tuesday. Carolina is ranked #2 in shot differential (+222) while the Coyotes are ranked 17th (-60) this season. Arizona is coming off a 3-0 win despite getting outshot in their fourth straight game. The Hurricanes already defeated Arizona two weeks ago. It's simply not a good matchup considering all of the Coyotes' key injures right now. Carolina is ranked 10 spots higher in Face-off win percentage. Carolina is ranked #2 in shots allowed while Arizona is ranked 27th. I like the road team quite a bit!

3*Tampa Bay Lightning -130

I like this revenge spot for the road team. Tampa Bay lost at home 4-3 despite outshooting Dallas 48-20 last month. The Lightning are 6-0 when playing with 3 or more days of rest this season. More of the same.

4*Vancouver Canucks -124

The Canucks return home off a shutout loss despite outshooting the Jets 41-24. Vancouver is ranked #2 in Face-off win percentage while the Coyotes are ranked 21st. The home team has played two fewer games than Arizona and should enjoy a team speed advantage. I like the Canucks!

5*Carolina Hurricanes -120 

This will be the Lightning's third game in four days. Tough. Long flight to Raleigh, North Carolina. Tough. Tampa Bay won a physical game at Ottawa yesterday. Ottawa had 38 hits. TB had 32 hits. The Lightning have won six straight despite getting outshot 95-75 in their past three games. Red flag. Carolina is ranked 2nd in shot differential (+219) while Tampa Bay is ranked 12th (+30) this season. The Hurricanes are ranked 5th in shots-on-goal while Tampa Bay is ranked 20th in shots-on-goal. The home team is 9-3 in the past 12 meetings. More of the same!

3*Toronto Maple Leafs -129

The Jets defeated the Avs 7-4 in Colorado despite getting outshot 43-26 on Tuesday. Toronto has won 7 of their past 8 games. They have a lot of team speed which should provide matchup problems for the home team. The Maple Leafs are ranked 10th in shot differential (+57) and 8th in goal differential (+15) this season. Winnipeg is ranked 23rd in shot differential (-78) and 17th in goal differential (+4). Toronto is ranked 8 spots higher in Face-off win percentage. I like the road team!

4*Carolina Hurricanes +106

The Avs played a very physical game yesterday as they were hit 33 times, while dishing out 40 hits on Chicago. Carolina is ranked 2nd in shot differential (+148) while Colorado is ranked 17th (-36) this season. The Hurricanes are ranked 3rd in shots allowed while Colorado is ranked 14th. Carolina is ranked 14 spots higher in Face-off win percentage. The Hurricanes own the better offense, defense, Power Play, and Penalty kill. I like the road team!

4*Carolina Hurricanes -110

The Hurricanes are ranked 3rd (+170) in shot differential while the Jets are ranked 20th (-44) this season. Carolina is ranked 4th in shot allowed while Winnipeg is ranked 21st. The Jets scored 7 goals in their win against Philly despite getting outshot 32-24. Winnipeg scored 3 PP goals in that game. The Hurricanes own the better offense, defense, Power Play, and Penalty Kill. Carolina will be playing with revenge after Winnipeg crushed the Hurricanes 8-1 at Carolina back in March. The Hurricanes are 7-3 when playing with two days or rest this season. I like the road team!

3*Nashville Predators -130

The Predators have lost two in a row despite outshooting both foes by a combined 77-54 mark. The fans booed the Preds off the Ice on Saturday. The team took notice. Nashville is ranked #2 in shot differential (+170) while the Rangers are ranked 31st (-204) this season. The Predators are ranked 1st in shots allowed while New York is ranked 30th. Nashville is ranked 2nd in Face-Off win percentage while the Rangers are ranked 30th. The Rangers have committed 146 penalties in 32 games. Nashville has committed 118 penalties in 31 games. I like the road team!

5*Carolina Hurricanes -103

The Flames have won 7 straight (four wins by one goal) despite getting outshot 82-53 in their last two wins combined. Carolina owns the better offense, defense, Power Play, Penalty kill, and they are the more disciplined team. The Hurricanes are ranked 16th in Face-off win percentage while the Flames are ranked 25th this season. Carolina is ranked 3rd in shot differential (+154) while Calgary is ranked 20th (-43) this season. The Hurricanes are ranked 4th in shots allowed while the Flames are ranked 30th. This will be Calgary's 4th game in six days. Tough. I really like the road team in this one!

4*Los Angeles Kings +122

The LA Kings have the stats of a winning team except for shooting percentage. If they were a stock, I would put a strong buy on them going forward. The Kings are ranked #1 in shot differential (+202) while the Ducks are ranked 25th (-81) this season. The Kings are also ranked 4th in shots allowed. Anaheim has committed 143 penalties in 31 games while LA has committed only 109 in 32 games. The big factor is from the December 2nd matchup when Anaheim defeated LA 4-2 at Staples. We note, the LA Kings outshot the Ducks 36-20 in that game. I like the LA Kings as a nice road dog.

10*Edmonton Oilers +112

This is all about the travel spot for the Carolina Hurricanes. This will be their first road trip outside the Eastern or Central time zone since October 18th. Tough. They lost at Anaheim on that night. Carolina has been very fortunate to travel the least of any other Hockey team so far this season. Edmonton is roughly 2,500 miles Northwest from North Carolina. The Hurricanes have been outshout in three of their past four games which indicates a red flag to me. The Oilers are a real team and have played great at home after a loss. They also have revenge on their minds after losing by two goals despite outshooting Carolina 41-27 back in Feb. I like the home team in this spot!

4*Columbus Blue Jackets -141

The Blue Jackets have dropped two games in a row despite outshooting both foes by a combined 74-54 mark. Columbus has a 2.50 GAA in their past 10 games. The Blue Jackets are ranked 8th in shot differential (+93) while the Rangers are ranked 31st (-166) this season. The Rangers have committed a league-high (tied) 125 penalties in 26 games. Columbus has committed just 84 penalties in 27 tilts. I like the home team in this spot!

3*Carolina Hurricanes -155

This is a big revenge game for the Hurricanes. On October 16th, the Sharks defeated the Hurricanes 5-2 despite getting outshot 38-22. Carolina is ranked 4th in shot differential (+126) while the Sharks are ranked 18th (-32) this season. Carolina is ranked 5th in shots allowed. The home team is 8-2 in the past 10 meetings. More of the same in this one!

5*Carolina Hurricanes +136

The Hurricanes are ranked #3 (+136) in shot differential while Boston is ranked #17 (-23) in shot differential this season. Carolina is ranked 5th in shots allowed while the Bruins are ranked 16th. Boston has won 7 games overall with four wins by one goal. They have been outshot 129-106 in their past four games combined. Carolina should be pumped-up for this game, considering the Bruins swept them from the playoffs last May. Take the road dog!

4*Philadelphia Flyers +107

The Flyers are ranked #4 in shot differential (+122) and #6 in shots allowed this season. Philadelphia defeated the Blue Jackets 7-4, while outshooting them 46-26 last month. I simply believe the Flyers have the better offense, defense, and special teams. The Flyers are ranked #1 in Face-off win percentage while Columbus is ranked 24th. I like the road dog!

3*Columbus Blue Jackets +135

The Jets are 3-1 in their past four games despite getting outshot in all four games by a combined 145-108 mark. Columbus is ranked 6th in shot differential (+69) while Winnipeg is ranked 21st (-29) this season. The Blue Jackets are ranked 5th in shots allowed while the Jets are ranked 28th. I like the road team at a juicy price!

4*Toronto Maple Leafs +110

The Maple Leafs used their day off to fire veteran head coach Mike Babcock. Toronto is ranked #1 in Face-off win percentage while Arizona is ranked 24th this season. Teams play very well in Hockey the game after a head coach gets the ax. Take the road team in this spot!

5*Carolina Hurricanes -130

This will be the Chicago Blackhawks third game in four nights. Chicago has won four in a row despite getting outshot in all four games by a combined 164-111 mark. The Hurricanes are well-rested. Carolina is 5-1 when playing with two days of rest this season. The Hurricanes are ranked 4th (+87) in shot differential while Chicago is ranked 31st (-142) in shot differential this season. Carolina is ranked 10th in Face-off win percentage while Chicago is ranked 25th. Take the Hurricanes!

3*Arizona Coyotes +110

The Coyotes have the better offense and defense. Arizona is ranked 14th (-2) in shot differential while Minnesota is ranked 25th (-48). Last week, the Wild defeated Arizona 4-3 despite getting outshot 35-24. The Coyotes should have an edge in Face-off win percentage and they are the more disciplined team. I like the road dog in this one!

5*Philadelphia Flyers +144

The Flyers are ranked 1st (+105) in shot differential while the Maple Leafs are ranked 20th (-20). These two teams just played on 11/2/19 and the Maple Leafs won 4-3 in a shootout. Note, the Flyers outshot Toronto 40-26 in Philly. The Maple Leafs have won three straight games but have been oushot in all three. I see advantages on defense, special teams, discipline, and Face-off win percentage for Philadelphia. The Flyers lead the league in the ladder while Toronto is ranked 3rd. Revenge is sweet. I like Philly Flyers!

10*Pittsburgh Penguins -105

The Penguins have dropped two in a row despite outshooting both foes by a combined 96-53 mark. Pittsburgh is ranked 4th in shot differential (+74) while the Islanders are ranked 27th this season (-53). The Penguins will be seeking revenge after the Islanders swept Pittsburgh out of the playoffs last April. The Penguins are ranked 11th in Face-Off win percentage while the Islanders are ranked 30th this season. The home team has added pressure of trying to win their 11th straight game. Not so fast. I'm loving the Penguins in a near pick em situation.

Cancel this pick. I didn't see that the Arizona plays tonight (Monday). Do not play this!

10*Arizona Coyotes +145

The Coyotes are 7-2-1 in their past 10 games while the Flames are just 5-4-1. Calgary returns home from a 5-game road trip and will be playing its 6th game in 10 days. Arizona will be playing with two days of rest and they are 4-0 in this role of late. The Flames are ranked 21st in shot differential (-31) and have been outshot by a combined 111-83 in their past three games. Arizona is ranked 13th in shot differential (+10) and is by far the more disciplined team. The Coyotes have committed just 41 penalties in 13 games while Calgary has committed 74 (league-high) in 17 tilts. That's right, the Flames have played four more games than Arizona so far this season. This is a big advantage for the road team considering they have the better offense, defense, special teams, and goalie. I love the Coyotes at a great price in this spot!

4*Colorado Avalanche -125

The Avalanche lost a rare October home game to the Ducks despite outshooting them 37-26 on Sunday. Colorado is 3-0 after a loss and 3-0 when playing with three days of rest this season. The Panthers will be playing its 9th road game of this young season. Tough, especially at high-altitude. Colorado has the better defense by almost a full goal. Finally, the Avs are 11-4 at home in October over the past three seasons. Take the home team!

5*Edmonton Oilers +118

Washington has won four straight games but have been outshot 79-60 in their past two wins. The Capitals are ranked 27th in shots allowed and they have committed the third most penalties so far this season. The Oilers own the better defense, Power Play, Penalty Kill, and goal-tending. Edmonton is being undervalued after losing two straight. This is a very talented group. The home team is 7-3 in the past 10 meetings. More of the same! 

4*Boston Bruins -112

Tampa Bay is ranked dead last (31st) in shot differential and that loss against the Ottawa Senators is telling. The Bruins have the better offense, defense, and special teams right now. The Lightning have been outshot in three of their past four games which have all been on the road. I like the home team in this spot!

4*Chicago Blackhawks -115

This is a tough spot for the Jets. They played four road games than played one home game and now must travel again. The Jets have won two straight. However, Winnipeg was outshot 78-54 in those two games combined. Red flag. Chicago has played just two games so far while the Jets have played five. Advantage Chicago. The Blackhawks lost all four games against Winnipeg last season. They should be fired up for this game. Take the Blackhawks in this spot!

5*Colorado Avalanche -128

You will see some people like the Flames because they have playoff revenge from last year. I'm not buying it. The Avs won 4 games to 1 and outshot the Flames 205-164. Colorado is loaded this season with lots of talent. The most important handicap is the fact Colorado has been great at home (7-2-1 the last two seasons) in the month of October. Visiting teams are not use to the altitude coming off preseason games. Speaking of the preseason, the Flames played 8 games while Colorado played 6 games. Advantage Avs. Take the home team in this one!  

4*St. Louis Blues -136

We got screwed in game three with that controversial no call in OT. The Blues are big and more physical having outhit the Sharks 41-26 in game three. The Blues have outhit San Jose 117-89 in all three games combined. San Jose is 0-5 when leading in a playoff series this postseason. The Blues are 2-0 when trailing. St. Louis is 20-10 after allowing 4 goals or more this season. Take the hungry host!

5*St. Louis Blues -140

The St. Louis Blues are bigger and more physical than the Sharks. The Blues have outhit San Jose by a substantial margin in both games. It's 76-63 in favor of the Blues. St. Louis is 17-6 in their past 23 home games. San Jose is 3-7 in their past 10 road games. The Sharks own the second worst defensive metrics on the road of all the playoff teams. The Blues are ranked No. 2 in defensive metrics at home. Only the Boston Bruins are better. The Blues are ranked #1 (+45) in shot differential, while the Sharks are ranked #9 (+2) in the postseason. The Sharks have committed 72 penalties in 16 postseason games (11.4 PMG), while the Blues have committed just 46 penalties in 15 postseason games (6.8 PMG). Take the home team!

3*St. Louis Blues +118

The Blues made a lot of silly mistakes in game one and still outshot San Jose 31-25. They are really good on defense and should play much better. The Blues are ranked #1 (+46) in shot differential while San Jose is ranked 9th (+1) in the postseason. The Sharks won 6-3 in game one and the line is pretty much the same for game two. The Oddsmakers want Sharks' action. They are getting it. I see 79% of the cash on the home team. Take the Blues!

3*Carolina Hurricanes +135

I think the Hurricanes have a great chance to steal game one. The Bruins are coming off an emotional 6-game series against Columbus. We note the Bruins were outshot 39-29 in their game six victory. Boston will be playing its fifth game in nine days. Tough. Carolina is for real and just might win the whole thing. Take the Hurricanes in game one and for the series. Great value on both! 

4*San Jose Sharks -125

The Sharks are the more talented team in my opinion and they have beaten Colorado 15 of the past 17 meetings in San Jose. Take the Sharks in game five!

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Kentucky Derby 12th Race

Omaha Beach was going to be my strongest (5 units) selection since Big Brown in 2008. These are not as strong, but still worth a shot.

2 units #16 Game Winner (Place only)   ML: 5/1

Longshot 1 unit #7 Maximum Security (W+P+S)   ML: 10/1

4*Boston Bruins +109

The Bruins have lost two straight low-scoring games despite outshooting Columbus overall. Boston is well-coached and have been at their best playing with one day of rest after a loss. The Bruins will have a decided advantage in Face-Off win percentage as they are ranked 4th best, while Columbus is tied for the 2nd worst in the postseason. Eastern conference road underdogs have been gold after losing two straight one-goal games. Take Boston!

4*Dallas Stars -119

This is a big game for the Stars and I think they will play their best game of the postseason. The undefeated streak for the Blues on the road in the postseason comes to an end tonight. Take the Stars!

3*Carolina Hurricanes +135

3*Carolina Hurricanes +120

In the previous four games, Carolina is +26 in shot differential while Washington is -26. The Hurricanes have the #1 ranked defensive metrics of all 16 playoff teams. I love this squad. They "bring it" each and every night. After losing the first two games in Washington, this Carolina team is in a great spot to win game five. The Capitals were ranked dead last in Face-Off win percentage during the regular season. They are ranked #15 (next to last) in the postseason. Carolina is ranked #2 in Face-Off win percentage in the postseason (4 games). Don't forget, no NHL team has won the Stanley Cup if they were ranked last in Face-Off win percentage during the regular season. Take the Hurricanes!

5*Carolina Hurricanes -123

I am coming right back with the Hurricanes after cashing my Game of the Month with Carolina in game three. This is a real team. At home, the Hurricanes have some of the best advanced metrics in all of hockey. I bet +265 to comeback and win the series. It will be tied after game four so it's worth a shot. Carolina can absolutely win a game in Washington. They almost did just that in game two. Take the Hurricanes in game four!

10*Carolina Hurricanes -125

Despite dropping the first two games, the Hurricanes are 21-10 in their past 31 games. This will be the first home playoff tilt for the Hurricanes since 2009. The home crowd will be pumped-up in this must-win game. Carolina is a very good team at home. I would expect a top-notch effort in game three. Take the hungry host!

3*Calgary Flames -178

I don't like laying this much "juice" but the Flames are the strong side. This would have been a best bet if the line was -150 or less. This will be first home playoff game for Calgary since 2016. They were swept in four games by the Ducks. That Flames' team wasn't nearly as good as this squad. Night and Day. The Flames are ranked #4 (+354) in shot differential while Colorado is ranked #12 (+57) this season. Calgary is ranked #2 (+66) in goal differential while the Avs are ranked #12 (+14) this season. The Avs do most of its damage in the Mile High city. Take the hungry host!

5*San Jose Sharks -136

These teams met in last year's playoffs where the Golden Knights ousted San Jose in six games. The first meeting was in Las Vegas and the Knights crushed the Sharks 7-0. They remember how it felt and watched Vegas over celebrate. San Jose also has revenge from a 7-3 home loss on March 18th. Looking at the advanced metrics, the Knights play much better at home than the road. The Sharks are ranked #7 in goal differential (+31) while Vegas is ranked #14 (+18) this season. I love San Jose in this spot!

5*Carolina Hurricanes -120

This is the second game of a home-and-home with the Capitals winning on Wednesday. If fact, the Capitals are 3-0 vs. Carolina this season. Carolina is 0-22 (0-11 at home) after scoring 1 goal or less this season. Lets go against that trend. I believe the Hurricanes will be super focused knowing the playoffs are not set in stone yet. The Hurricanes are ranked #1 in shot differential (+465) while the Capitals are ranked #20 (-91) this season. The Capitals are ranked #31 (last) in Face-Off win percentage this season. Washington has two OT revenge games against Tampa Bay and Florida respectively on deck. Take the hungry host!