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

4*Columbus Blue Jackets +100

The Blue Jackets have lost three straight and John Tortorella should have his guys extremely motivated. I love the fact that Columbus outshot the Capitals 42-29 in Saturday's OT loss. Take the hungry host!

4*Washington Capitals +125

5*LA Kings -140

The Kings allowed a season-high 56 shots on goal and now return home down 0-2 in this best of seven series. The Golden Knights are a younger team having to deal with the fact they are up 2-0. Tough. NHL teams returning home after allowing 50+ shots-on-goal are 11-1 in the postseason of late. The Kings have a lot of pride and should bounce back after that ugly performance on Friday. Take the hungry host!

5*New Jersey Devils -142

This will be the Hurricanes' third game in four days and they are 1-10 in that role of late. They also played a very physical game yesterday getting hit 36 times. The Devils want that wild card spot and are in a familiar role. New Jersey is 9-2-2 when playing with two days of rest. The Devils score 3.68 goals while allowing 2.68 with extra rest. New Jersey is 11-5 in the past 16 meetings at home. Take the hungry host!

3*Washington Capitals -113

This will be the third game in four days for the Jets and they have a big division tilt on deck against Nashville. The Capitals are a really good home team and they are 12-3 against the Jets at home of late. Washington is 30-12 after scoring 2 goals or less. The Jets have some injury concerns. Take the host!

5*Nashville Predators -127

The Predators are ranked significantly higher in shot differential and goal differential. They are big and fast. A tough matchup for this current "nicked" up Avs squad to deal with. Colorado has lost nine of the past 10 head-to-head meetings. Nashville is ranked 4th (52.8%) in Face-off win percentage while Colorado is ranked 31st (last). They are one of the worst Hockey teams in that category in quite some time (43.9%). I also like playing against NHL teams that scored 7 goals or more if facing a winning team. The Preds lead the West with 91 points. Take the road team!

4*San Jose Sharks -131

I think the Sharks will be focused at home after losing three straight games. Edmonton ranks behind the Sharks in almost every important stat I look for when handicapping Hockey. Check this out. The Oilers are 1-11 in their last 12 games after scoring 5 goals or more. San Jose is 3-1 after losing three or more straight games this season. Take the hungry host!

5*St. Louis Blues -115

Winnipeg has scored 16 goals in their past three games and now must hit the road. Tough. This will be the Jets' first road game since January 30th. Very tough. The Jets have been sub-par when playing with two days of rest, allowing 3.27 goals per game. On the flip side, the Blues are one of the best teams with two days of rest, allowing just 2.31 goals per contest. St. Louis has lost three straight games by one goal. Take the hungry host!

4*Minnesota Wild -116

Great spot for the road team. The Wild have lost two straight games despite outshooting both foes by a combined 72-58 mark. The Islanders have won two straight even though they were outshot in both games by combined 95-57 tally. In fact, the Islanders are ranked 31st (-313) in shot differential this season. New York also ranks dead last (31st) in goals allowed (3.51 per game) this season. I also like the fact that the Islanders have played 60 games while Minnesota has played 58 so far this season, and this is an early start. Check this out. The Wild are 7-1 this season after losing two or more consecutive games. Minnesota is a well-coached bunch so take the Wild in this Presidents Day afternoon tilt. 

5*Pittsburgh Penguins -130

Toronto has scored 16 goals in their past three games, and now must play the Penguins on the road who will be looking for some payback. The Maple Leafs defeated Pittsburgh on the road by one goal despite getting outshot 36-25 back in December. Toronto has won five games in a row despite getting outshot in all but one of those games. Pittsburgh is ranked 2nd (+187) in shot differential while the Maple Leafs are ranked 24th (-144) this season. The Penguins have won eight of the past 11 meetings in Pittsburgh. Another!

3*St. Louis Blues +137

4*Nashville Predators -138

The Preds have lost two straight games in OT/Shootout despite outshooting both opponents. Nashville gets Filip Forsberg back which should add some energy to the entire team. The Predators are one of the best teams in face-off win percentage while Montreal is one of the worst. The Canadiens are 10-26 in their past 36 games against the Central. Take Nashville!

5*St. Louis Blues -130

The Blues are the more talented team in my opinion. Minnesota does most of its damage at home. The Wild are allowing 3.65 GPG on the road. St. Louis is ranked 4th (+141) in shot differential while Minnesota is ranked 22nd (-99) this season. The Wild defeated St. Louis in OT back in December despite getting outshot 42-25. St. Louis is 33-17 when playing with two days of rest over the past three years. Take the Blues in this spot!

3*Edmonton Oilers +120

3*Nashville Predators -130

5*Boston Bruins -117

The Bruins are ranked 5th (+133) in shot differential while the Maple Leafs are ranked 22nd (-96) this season. Toronto has played four more games than the Bruins so far this season. Tough. Boston has revenge on their minds from a 4-1 home loss back in November. We note that the Bruins outshot Toronto 39-25 in that game. Take the host!

4*LA Kings -114

The LA Kings are the more talented team in my opinion. Vancouver is coming off back-to-back rivalry games, having just played Edmonton and Winnipeg on consecutive days. The Canucks are returning home from a long seven games in 15 days road trip. Tough. Also, the host is 9-18 against teams with a winning record while the Kings are 16-7 against losing teams this season. Take the Kings in this one!

5*St. Louis Blues -116

The Blues are ranked 4th (+139) in shot differential while the Senators are ranked 19th (-74) this season. Ottawa hasn't played in eight days. Tough. The host is 0-4 in their last four tries playing with 3 or more days of rest. The Senators are 1-7 against the Western Conference of late. The Blues are 21-10 in their last 31 against the East. St. Louis is by far the more talented team in my opinion. Great value. Take the Blues!

4*Carolina Hurricanes -115

The Flames have won six straight games, but they have been outshot in their past three by an 82-112 margin. That's a red flag especially for a team playing its 4th road game in six days. The Hurricanes are a real Hockey team, ranking #1 in shot differential (+236). Carolina should enjoy a big advantage in Face-Offs won and they are the much more disciplined team. In fact, the Hurricanes have spent the fewest minutes in the penalty box while Flames have the spent the third most this season. Take the Hurricanes! 

3*Chicago Blackhawks -107

4*LA Kings -115

The LA Kings have extra incentive to win this game. After this contest, the host will be off for the next 7 days. A win means they get an extra day with their family/friends, while a loss means more practice time. The Kings lost in OT against Nashville despite outshooting them 39-31 back in November. Take the LA Kings in this spot!

5*St. Louis Blues -117

The Blues are ranked 4th in shot differential (+135) and certainly matchup pretty well with the Golden Knights. Vegas defeated St. Louis in OT at home despite getting outshot 49-22 back in late October. Take the Blues in this spot!

4*San Jose Sharks -102

The Sharks are coming off a non-effort while the Canadiens are returning home from a long road trip. I see mismatches that favors the Sharks. San Jose has won the past five meetings and I believe they will make it six.

3*Chicago Blackhawks -125

I see a lot of advantages for the Blackhawks even without starting goalie Corey Crawford. Chicago is really good with extra time to prepare and they are coming off two straight losses. Chicago is ranked 9th in shot differential (+77) while Vancouver is ranked 23rd (-79). Take the road team!

3*Chicago Blackhawks +103

The Blackhawks lost a home and home with Dallas right before this current win streak of five. I'll take the better offense and defense with Chicago to make it six straight victories. 

4*Chicago Blackhawks +113

The Blackhawks are a sneaky good team although their record doesn't indicate that. Chicago will be looking to win its fourth straight game knowing the Jets are ranked 23rd (-69) in shot differential. Chicago is ranked 9th (+44) and playing the Jets without their star defenseman Dustin Byfuglien should really benefit the road dog. The Blackhawks know how to win in Winnipeg, cashing 10 of the past 12 meetings. The Jets are allowing 3.40 goals per game when playing with two days of rest. The really good teams normally allow less than 2.50 GPG with two days of rest. Take Chicago!

10*St. Louis Blues +103

For starters, I think the Blues are the more talented team. They are tremendous when playing with 2 days of the rest in their past 54 tries (37-17). They are 5-2 this season, scoring 3.43 goals per game while allowing just 2.14 goals per contest. Both are ranked tops in the league. On the flip side, Montreal is just 1-3-1 with two days of rest, allowing 3.20 goals per game. The Blues and Canadiens are ranked 3rd and 4th respectively in shot differential. However, the host has been outshot in four of the past six games, winning five straight with smoke and mirrors. The Blues have lost three straight games despite outshooting their opponent in all three games by a 121-83 margin. Lets not forget that Montreal scored 10 goals in their last game. NHL teams are 13-35 SU after scoring 7 or more goals against winning teams. At the end of the day, Montreal is allowing more goals (3.04) than they score (2.75) so far this season. The Blues are 8-3 in their past 11 meetings against Montreal. I thought St. Louis would open as a slight favorite.  Great value. Take the Blues!

4*Carolina Hurricanes -110

The Hurricanes are ranked #1 in shot differential (+125) while the Maple Leafs are ranked #27 (-62). In fact, Toronto has been outshot in eight of their past nine games. Carolina is coming off a game in which they allowed 6 goals at home. I would expect a bounce back effort from the host, who owns the better face-off win percentage and is by far the more disciplined team.

3*St. Louis Blues -133

I really like this Blues team as it's currently constructed. They have size, speed, tremendous skill, and a great coaching staff. These guys know how to practice so that every player is game ready. A handful of glaring stats that says to fade the Canucks in this spot. First off, they aren't that good ranking 18th in shot differential (-17). The Blues are ranked 9th with a +51 shot differential. They have outshot its foe in nine of the past 10 games, good for a 7-3 record. Vancouver has outshot its opponent in just four of their past 10 games, good for a 4-6 record. Find me the NHL team that wins the shooting stats and you will win close to 70%. Lastly, the Canucks are 5-21 SU in their past 26 home games. Looks like a misprint but it's not. Take the road chalk!

4*St. Louis Blues +109

The Blues are coming off an embarrassing loss, giving up 7 goals at Calgary. St. Louis has two days to prepare for the Oilers. The Blues are 28-15 in this role over the past three seasons, including 2-1 this year. Edmonton is coming off a game were they scored a season-high 8 goals. NHL losing teams are just 11-34 after scoring 7 or more goals when playing teams with a winning record of late. I'll take the Blues in this spot.

3*Philadelphia Flyers +140

4*Washington Capitals -116

The Penguins have the worst defense on the road out of all the winning teams. The Capitals were ousted by Pittsburgh in last year's playoffs and than lost by 1 goal in October. Washington is 25-9 after scoring one goal or less over the past three seasons. The host is also 22-10 when playing with two days of rest over the past three seasons. Take the Caps!

4*Minnesota Wild -136

The Wild lost to the Jets by one goal despite outshooting Winnipeg 29-19 on Monday. Minnesota is by far the more talented team especially playing at home. Montreal has scored 13 goals in their past two games and now face a tough road test against a hungry team. The Canadiens are 0-3 after playing a division game this season. Montreal is allowing 4.14 goals when playing on the road this year. I think this line will close much higher so get down ASAP.

4*St. Louis Blues -120

The LA Kings played a very physical game against Boston on Saturday (2-1 OT win with 1 second remaining), getting hit 35 times. This will be their sixth road game in 9 days, and coming off an emotional victory. Tough. The Blues have a big mobile defense and solid depth on offense. St. Louis is allowing just 1.7 goals at home this season. Take the host!

4*Detroit Red Wings +135

NHL teams have been a solid play against after scoring 7 goals or more in their previous game. Especially losing teams. The Red Wings should be motivated to end its 6-game losing skein before returning home. Florida was outshot 34-22 in that 8-3 victory over Anaheim and have now been outshot in their past four games. The Red Wings are 11-5-1 in their past 17 meetings in Florida. Great value on the road dog!

4*Minnesota Wild -125

5*Carolina Hurricanes -110

Tampa Bay is coming off an emotional 7-1 victory over the defending Stanley Cup Champions. Carolina plays stifling defense while the Lightning are allowing more shots (316) than they take (272). Carolina has played three fewer games than TB and I look for a prime effort from the host. Take the Hurricanes!

4*Columbus Blue Jackets -125

This is a really talented team folks. They have size, speed, and tremendous skill across the board. Once their Power Play (currently 1-for-16) gets going, look out! Tampa Bay will be playing its 4th road game in 6 nights. Tough. The Lightning are allowing more shots than they take. Take the host!