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!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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!

4*Dallas Stars -134

The Avalanche are 3-2 against the Stars this season despite getting outshot 168-153 combined. Colorado is in a major losing skein, going 12-25 in its past 37 games. They are 5-14 in their past 19 games vs. teams with a winning record. On the flip side, Dallas checks in with an impressive 8-2 mark in their past 10 vs. losing teams. Colorado has committed 303 penalties in 73 games while Dallas has committed 261 in 73 tilts. Actually, the Avs have accumulated the most penalties minutes in the entire league. Dallas has the 9th fewest in all of hockey. I really like the fact that Dallas is ranked 4th in Face-Off win percentage while Colorado is ranked 25th this season. Take the home team!

10*Carolina Hurricanes -105

Tampa Bay played a physical game yesterday winning 5-4 in overtime. The Capitals outshot TB 58-28, and the Lightning have been outshot in two straight. Washington dished out 34 hits. Tampa Bay scored 3 PP goals last night and now must play a road game. Tough. Tampa Bay has already clinched the Top seed and President's Trophy. They also have a huge revenge game on deck against the St. Louis Blues, a 1-0 OT loss back in Feb. Carolina is just 4 points ahead of Montreal and 3 points ahead of Columbus for one of two Wild Card spots. The Hurricanes are ranked #1 in shot differential (+450) while the Lightning are ranked #13 (+24) this season. Carolina is 25-10 in their past 35 games and has played TB tough this season. Each team has won twice, however the Hurricanes have outshot TB 137-101 in the four games combined. Another hidden advantage is the fact TB has played two extra games this season. After game #70 of the season rest really comes into play. TB is also dealing with injuries on the blue line. Look for the home team improve to 5-0 in the past five meetings. I love Carolina in this spot all the way up to -130 or less!

4*Columbus Blue Jackets -124

The Hurricanes have been outshot in three of their past four games with the other game a dead heat. That's a red flag for a team that leads the league in shot differential. Columbus is 11-5 in their past 16 games against the Metropolitan. Carolina is 17-37 in their past 54 games when playing with 3 or more days or rest, including 3-5-1 this season. The Blue Jackets are just two points behind Carolina in the Wild Card race. They should be super focused in this one. Take the home team!

4*Carolina Hurricanes -103

The Avalanche will playing its 3rd game in 4 days, where they are 8-20 in this role of late. The Wild are ranked #1 in shot differential and will be playing with revenge. Colorado defeated the Hurricanes 3-1 in Carolina despite getting outshot 43-22 back in October. Gabriel Landeskog tallied two of three goals and he's OUT for this game. The Avalanche have committed the most penalty minutes this season while Carolina has committed the 8th fewest. Take the road team!

5*Carolina Hurricanes -135

The Hurricanes are ranked #1 (+438) in shot differential while the Jets are ranked #25 (-147) this season. Winnipeg has been outshot in nine of their past 10 games. The Jets defeated the Hurricanes 3-1 despite getting outshot 43-26 back in October. I like the Hurricanes in this spot!

5*Buffalo Sabres -122

The Edmonton Oilers will be playing its 5th road game in seven days. That's a season-high in consecutive road games and days. The Sabres are playing with revenge from an Oilers 7-2 victory in Edmonton. We note the Sabres outshot EDM 43-25 in that Jan. meeting. Edmonton is 2-0 SU in their past two games despite getting outshot 67-50 combined. The Oilers have committed 247 penalties in 65 games while the Sabres have committed 204 penalties in 65 games. The Sabres own the better offense, defense, special teams, Face-Off win percentage, and goalie. Take Buffalo!

3*Carolina Hurricanes -105

The Hurricanes are ranked #1 in shot differential (+446) this season. Carolina has revenge on their minds after a 4-1 St. Louis victory in November. We note the Hurricanes outshot the Blues 39-20. Take the hungry host!

5*San Jose Sharks -103

This is a big revenge game for the San Jose Sharks. Boston defeated San Jose 6-5 on 2/18/19, despite getting outshot 38-20. The Bruins are returning home from an 8-day, 5-game road trip. They have been at home for two days. Lots of family/friends distractions. Boston has been outshot in five of their past seven games. San Jose is ranked #2 (+346) in shot differential while the Bruins are ranked #10 (+121) this season. However, the Sharks have allowed 1,789 shots in 63 games. Boston has allowed 1,900 shots in 62 games. The Face-offs should be even while the Sharks are the more disciplined team. San Jose just traded for Gustav Nyquist who adds firepower from the Red Wings. He's posted 16 goals & 33 assists (49 points) in 62 games. In his last game with Detroit this past Sunday, Nyquist scored a PP goal against these Sharks. Nyquist has already played Boston three times this season. He has recorded at least one point (1 Goal, 4 assists) in all three games. Boston has a big revenge game against TB on deck. Take San Jose! 

4*Minnesota Wild -109

The Wild have lost 6 straight home games despite outshooting five of the six. The other game (Chicago) was a dead heat in shots, 32-32. One of those six games was against these Blues, a 4-0 shutout. The Wild have been really good in home revenge games. They should be super focused in this one considering the Blues are 7 points better in the standings. The Blues looked tired in Saturday's shootout win against the Bruins. St. Louis is just 2-6 when playing with no rest. NHL teams playing on the road after a shootout victory have not performed well over the years. Take the hungry host!

3*Dallas Stars +110

The Blues played three straight road games than played a home game and now hit the road again. Tough. The Stars are 18-9-2 at home and coming off a sloppy performance. Take the Stars to get a much needed victory while ending the Blues long winning streak.

5*Colorado Avalanche +104

This will be Winnipeg's first road game in 10 days. A 2 hour 20 min plane ride. Not too bad except for the high-altitude. Tough. The Jets are 2-1 vs. Colorado this season despite getting outshot 106-70 combined. The Avs are ranked #12 (+71) in shot differential while the Jets are ranked #21 (-100) this season. The Jets are are just 2-5 in their past 7 games and 0-2 without star Defensemen Dustin Byfuglien. The 6"5 stud blue liner remains out for at least another week. The home team is 21-7 in the past 28 meetings, including nine of the past 10. NHL teams playing in Denver after a long homestand (10 or more days) have historically not performed well. I like Colorado tonight!

3*St. Louis Blues -143

The Blues are ranked #8 (+142) in shot differential while the Coyotes are ranked #15 (+2) this season. Arizona defeated the Golden Knights 5-2 in Vegas on Tuesday despite getting outshot 43-26. This is a revenge game for the Blues. Arizona defeated St. Louis 6-1 on the first day of December in Arizona. We note the Blues outshot the Coyotes 44-26, and should benefit from already playing in Arizona this season. St. Louis is ranked #5 (51.9%) in Face-off win percentage while the Coyotes are ranked #30 (46.7%) this season. This play would be rated higher if the line was lower. If this line drops to -130 or less, make it a 4 unit play. I don't see that happening though.

5*San Jose Sharks +116

The Sharks have almost 200 more shots-on-goal than the Flames. Calgary is 4-1 SU in their past five games despite getting outshot in three of the five. The Flames defeated the Sharks 8-5 on New Years Eve despite getting outshot 33-27. San Jose owns the better Power play and Penalty kill. The Flames played a home-and-home against Carolina and than played at Washington. They have been at home for three days. Lots of family/friends distractions. Calgary is 2-6 SU in their past eight games when playing with three days of rest. San Jose has been really good when playing with one day of rest this season. I like the Sharks at a great price in this one!

The Sharks are ranked #2 (+310) in shot differential while the Jets are ranked #20 (-51) this season. This is a big revenge game for the Sharks. The Jets defeated San Jose 5-3 despite getting outshot 44-24 back in December. One of the five goals was an empty net tally. Winnipeg scored 9 goals including three PP goals in their previous game, but outshot Arizona by just two. In their previous two games (both wins) the Jets were outshot 70-53 prior to the 9-goal explosion. I like the Sharks in this spot!

5*St. Louis Blues -116

St. Louis is 5-5 SU in their past 10 games despite outshooting all 10 foes. The Ducks are 2-4 SU in their past six games and have been outshot in all six. St. Louis is ranked 9th in shot differential (+90) while the Ducks are ranked 30th (-339) this season. Anaheim has been at home for two days after a long road trip. Lots of family/friends distractions. The Blues have been in So. Cal after playing the LA Kings on Monday. The Ducks will be without its leading goal scorer in Jakob Silferberg. I think St. Louis is the more talented team. Take the Blues!

4*Toronto Maple Leafs +130

This is a big revenge game for the Maple Leafs. Tampa Bay defeated Toronto 4-1 despite getting outshot 49-21 last month. I think the Maple Leafs matchup pretty well on offense, defense, special teams, and coaching. Toronto is ranked 11 spots higher in Face-Off win percentage and they are the much more disciplined team. Over the past 10 games, the Lightning are allowing more shots than they take. Take the road team in this upset maker.

4*Minnesota Wild -105

The Wild should be super focused knowing they are 0-4 in their past four home games. Minnesota is ranked 8th (+85) in shot differential while the Jets are ranked 17th (-7) this season. Winnipeg has won two in a row by a combined score of 12-5. We note the Jets were outshot 41-21 in their 7-4 home win against Colorado. The Jets have to fly back home to play the Red Wings on Friday. The Wild have scored just 1 PP goal in their past 10 games. The Jets are coming off a 3 PP goal game. Great fade bate. Minnesota has already defeated the Jets twice this season. Make it three. Take the hungry host! 

5*Carolina Hurricanes +111

The Hurricanes are 0-3 against the Islanders this season, despite outshooting them 112-59 combined. Carolina is ranked #1 (+347) in shot differential while the Islanders are ranked 25th (-108) this season. New York has won six straight but have been outshot in three of their past four. Red flag. Carolina is ranked 12th in Face-off win percentage while the Islanders are ranked 25th. Take the Hurricanes!

4*Carolina Hurricanes -124

The Hurricanes are ranked #1 in shot differential despite its losing record. They bring in the better defense, special teams, and goalie. In fact, the Flyers Power Play percentage ranks 31st and their Penalty Kill percentage is ranked 29th. Carolina hasn't scored a Power-Play goal in the past six games. The Flyers are ranked 2nd in penalty minutes per game (10.2) so look for the Hurricanes to end that streak. They should be super focused playing at home after a shutout loss. Philadelphia has to play tomorrow night (New Year's Day) at Nashville while Carolina will get a two day break. Take the Hurricanes! Happy New Year and be safe.

3*Florida Panthers -133

The Red Wings defeated the Panthers 4-3 (OT) in Florida on October 20th despite getting outshot 37-31. Detroit has been outshot in five of their past six games. The host is coming off a phony 4-1 win at Carolina on Thursday. Detroit was outshot 39-24. Florida is ranked 5th in shot differential (+138) while the Red Wings are ranked 29th (-222) this season. Detroit has played 3 more games than Florida to this point. Take the Panthers!

4*Florida Panthers +113

The Buffalo Sabres will be playing its 3rd game in four days. That always tough, especially against a team playing with two days of rest. Florida is a real team. They rank 5th in shot differential with a plus +134. On the flip side, the Sabres are ranked 20th at minus -36. Florida has outshot their foes in seven of the past 10 games. Buffalo has been outshot in seven of their past 10. Advantage Panthers. Another advantage will be Face-Off win percentage as the Panthers are ranked 11 spots higher than Buffalo. Florida is 20-6 in the past 26 meetings. Buffalo is 58-119 L177 after allowing 2 goals or less. Take the underdog!

3*St. Louis Blues +110

3*St. Louis Blues -111

The Panthers will be playing its first road game since 11/23. Tough. The Blues are coming off a non-effort in which they allowed 6 goals to Vancouver at home. St. Louis is ranked 2nd in Face-off win percentage while the Panthers are ranked 17th. Light play on the home team.

4*Minnesota Wild +117

The Wild are coming off a meltdown, blowing a two-goal lead in the final period as -200 chalk against Arizona on Tuesday. The Wild outshot the Coyotes 25-14, and have won the stats in six straight games. This is a real team. They own the better defense, goalie, and special teams. The Wild are ranked 5th in Face-off win percentage while the Blue Jackets are ranked 21st. Columbus is coming off a win against the Red Wings scoring 7 goals while allowing 5. I like the Wild in this spot at a nice price.

3*Carolina Hurricanes +107

The Hurricanes are ranked #1 in shot differential with a plus +304 mark, which ranks the best all time thru the first two months of the season. Montreal is ranked #13 with a plus +13. Carolina is ranked 9th in Face-Off win percentage while the Canadiens are ranked 31st. Montreal welcomes back Shea Weber which is great for the long term. Montreal has committed 96 penalties in 24 games. Carolina has committed 79 penalties in 23 games. I will take the Hurricanes in this spot!

4*Toronto Maple Leafs -138

The Bruins have crucial cluster injuries on defense. That's a bad matchup going up against an explosive offense. Toronto will be playing with double revenge including last year's playoffs. The Maple Leafs are extremely talented and should be focused in this spot. Boston has committed 107 penalties in 23 games while Toronto has committed just 65 penalties in 24 games. The host has better discipline and should enjoy an advantage in Face-Offs won. The home team is 8-2 in the past 10 meetings. Take the Maple Leafs!

5*Carolina Hurricanes -105

The Hurricanes are one of the best teams under .500 in quite some time. They own a plus +279 shot differential which of course ranks #1 by far. All time one of the best through the first seven weeks of the season. Carolina was ranked #1 last season too. The Maple Leafs have won four in a row despite getting outshot in their past three tilts. Red flag. Toronto is ranked 21st in shot differential with a minus -22 mark. The Maple Leafs were on the road for 4 games than played one home game and now hit the road again. Tough. I think the Hurricanes will play one of their best games of the season so far. Take the hungry host!

4*Florida Panthers -135

The Florida Panthers have lost two in a row despite outshooting both foes 84-61 combined. Florida is ranked 5th in shot differential at +97 while Ottawa is ranked 30th at -173. The Panthers have a plethora of talent and really like them in this spot.

3*Florida Panthers +112

The Panthers are rolling and everybody knows how I feel about this team in 2018-19. Columbus defeated the Panthers 5-4 in Florida, despite getting outshot 41-32 in early October. In that game, Artemi Panarin accumulated 4 points (1 goal & 3 helpers). He missed practice on Wednesday and is very questionable to play. Florida checks in with a +74 shot differential (ranks 5th) and will enjoy a huge edge in Face-offs won. Florida is ranked 12 spots higher in Face-Off win percentage. Roberto Luongo is scheduled to start in goal for the Panthers. He's 4-0 with a 1.33 GAA and .956 save percentage since his return this season. Columbus is 2-5 after a win of late. Take the road dog!

4*Florida Panthers +108

The Panthers have a +75 shot differential while the Flyers are +8. Florida has played three fewer games than the Flyers. Philadelphia is 3-1 in their past four games despite getting outshot in all four. Roberto Luongo will be back in Goal for the Panthers, where he is 3-0 with a 1.42 GAA and .952 save percentage this season. Florida has loads of talent that not many people know about right now. Better offense, defense, and special teams. NHL teams have struggled in the first game after defeating the Chicago Blackhawks over the years. Take the road dog!

5*Florida Panthers -125

This will be the Oilers' 4th road game in five days. Tough. Florida has played four fewer games than Edmonton and should be well-rested. In Hockey, extended rest is a good thing. Florida has a +64 shot differential which ranks 4th in all of Hockey. They are a real team. My NHL Eastern Conference Spotlight team for 2018-19. I still believe. Circled game for Florida knowing they are 0-9 at home in the past nine meetings. Despite its won/loss record, the Panthers are extremely talented and well-coached. The Panthers are poised for an extended winning run. Take the hungry host!

10*Toronto Maple Leafs -129

I see numerous advantages for the Maple Leafs against this Golden Knights' team. Toronto knows they need to play much better at home. The Maple Leafs have the better special teams and Face-off win percentage. The Maple Leafs are hungry to play a complete game at home. I have Toronto ranked 12 spots higher than Vegas. Take the hungry host!

5*Buffalo Sabres -111

This will be the Flames' third game in four days and first back-to-back of the season. The game was physical yesterday as Calgary got hit 31 times. Buffalo has a lot of emerging young talent. Look for the home team improve to 21-6-1 in the past 28 meetings. Take the Sabres!

4*St. Louis Blues -120

5*St. Louis Blues +141

The Jets defeated the Blues 5-2, despite getting outshot 42-25 earlier this month in St. Louis. The Blues are ranked #1 in Face-Off win percentage and they are the much more disciplined team. Take the St. Louis Blues at a juicy price!

3*New Jersey Devils -136

3*Carolina Hurricanes +151

4*Dallas Stars -113

The Stars matchup against the Maple Leafs with a fast offense and big mobile defense. Toronto is coming off a fast-paced high-scoring contest and now must play another road game. Tough. Dallas looks good in this spot.

3*San Jose Sharks +100

This will be the LA Kings first game of the season while San Jose has one game under their belt. The Sharks lost 5-2 despite outshooting the Ducks 33-15 on Wednesday. Light play on the road team.

5*Winnipeg Jets -133

The Jets have lost three in a row despite outshooting Vegas in all three games. In fact, the Jets went 2-0 after losing three games in a row during the regular season. Closeout games are always the toughest and the Golden Knights are a relatively young team. Winnipeg is 23-9 in their past 32 games after scoring 2 goals or less. Take the hungry host!

4*San Jose Sharks -140

4*Boston Bruins -145

The Bruins have lost two in a row and have yet to play a complete game in this series. I would expect a huge effort at home after some line shuffling to shake things up. Take the hungry host!

4*San Jose Sharks -125

I like the Sharks to get the win at home in game four with or without Joe Thornton.

5*Nashville Predators -168

Nashville lost game one despite outshooting the Jets 48-19. In fact, Winnipeg has been outshot in three straight postseason games. This is a must play on the home team!

4*Nashville Predators -145