This is a 5* play on Under.

I had the over in Game 6, and I was very lucky that Edmonton scored a pair of empty net goals seven seconds apart at the end of the game to push the total over. The series goes back to Florida for a 7th and deciding game, and we can expect both teams to be tighter than a nun's (see you next Tuesday). We can't ignore the history when it comes to Game 7s. All three Game 7s went under in these playoffs. Three of four went under last year, four of six went under in 2022 and two of three went under in 2021. That's 12 of the last 16 failing to go over a total of 5. Since 2005 more than 61 percent of Game 7s have gone under the total. That stat however includes nine games with a total set at 5 that were pushes. The number of games that have failed to hit 5.5 is closer to 70 percent. I fully expect this game to end with exactly five goals scored.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

The Oilers can force a Game 7 in Florida with a win tonight, and they have seized all the momentum in this series. I had the over in Game 5, and here is what I said prior to the game: "I expect the Oilers to be loose, as if they are playing with house money. They have finally solved Sergei Bobrovsky. chasing him from the net early in Game 4. I had mentioned that momentum might carry over after they scored three late goals in Game 3. The Panthers have to be concerned that the floodgates have opened. Bobrobsky fell apart in last year's Finals, conceding eight goals on 31 shots in Game 5 in Vegas. With this being an elimination game, there is also potential for the late empty net goals that could push us over the number." Another shootout is expected in Edmonton tonight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Oilers fave elimination in Game 5 in Florida, coming off an 8-1 win at home in Game 4. I expect the Oilers to be loose, as if they are playing with house money. They have finally solved Sergei Bobrovsky. chasing him from the net early in Game 4. I had mentioned that momentum might carry over after they scored three late goals in Game 3. The Panthers have to be concerned that the floodgates have opened. Bobrobsky fell apart in last year's Finals, conceding eight goals on 31 shots in Game 5 in Vegas. With this being an elimination game, there is also potential for the late empty net goals that could push us over the number.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on EDM.

The Oilers finally solved Sergei Bobrovsky in Game 3, scoring three goals on 35 shots, but the rally came up short. Now they face elimination on home ice in Game 4, and it will be interesting to see if any momentum carries over after Edmonton scored twice in the third period of Game 3. We haven't seen a sweep in the Finals since 1998, and the Oilers should be well positioned to force a Game 5. Don't be surprised if the league's best power play gets a few chances tonight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on EDM.

The Oilers need to bounce back here in Game 3 on home ice, or this series will be over. Edmonton has been dominant at home in these playoffs, winning six of nine. They have scored 19 power play goals in the playoffs, more than any other team. My concern heading into this series was with the Oilers goaltending, but Stuart Skinner appears to have picked up where he left off in the Conference Finals. Sergei Bobrobsky has been standing on his head, but he might be due for a let down here on the road. He's 0-3 in his last three starts on the road in the Stanley Cup Finals, conceding a whopping 16 goals in those games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The take away from Game 1 is that the Oilers dominated the play, outshooting Florida 32-17 but lost 3-0. I was skeptical that Stuart Skinner could continue his stellar play from the Conference Finals, but he was certainly good enough to give his team a chance to win. The defense in front of him was stellar, allowing just 17 shots. The Panthers are likely to come out and try to win ugly again here in Game 2, but the Oilers will eventually get to Bobrovsky. If I had to predict the final score I would say Edmonton wins 3-2 in overtime.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on EDM.

The take away from Game 1 is that the Oilers dominated the play, outshooting Florida 32-17 but lost 3-0. I was skeptical that Stuart Skinner could continue his stellar play from the Conference Finals, but he was certainly good enough to give his team a chance to win. The defense in front of him was stellar, allowing just 17 shots. The Panthers are likely to come out and try to win ugly again here in Game 2, but the Oilers will eventually get to Bobrovsky. If I had to predict the final score I would say Edmonton wins 3-2 in overtime. The Oilers are 5-1 when coming off a loss in this post-season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

While rust might be a factor with both these teams sidelined for an extended period following the Conference Finals, I worry about the goaltending. Stuart Skinner was average at best during the regular season, ranking near the bottom of the league with a save percentage of .905. Neither one of these goaltenders rank in the Top 10 in the playoffs in save percentage, with Skinner posting an .897 and Bobrovsky .908. If you go back to last year's Finals, Bobrovsky allowed four goals on 33 shots in a 5-2 loss in Game 1, and he was 1-4 with a 5.19 GAA in the series. Both goaltenders played well in the previous serious, but given the layoff it is uncertain if that carries over into Game 1. Edmonton ranks 1st on the power play this post-season, while Florida's 14 power play goals rank second.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Over.

The total has gone over in both the previous two meetings in Edmonton, and the under is 3-0 in the games in Dallas. The Oilers have gone over in seven of their last nine home games, and the over is 6-1 in their last seven home games against Dallas. Being that this is an elimination game, we could see the goalie get pulled a lot earlier than we would normally. I think the bookmakers should have put the total at 6 rather than 5.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

I had the under in Game 4, and here is what I said before the puck dropped: "Both the first two games of this series have gone under, and the way these two goaltenders are playing there is every reason to expect that trend to continue. Florida has gone under in five straight games, and Sergei Bobrovsky has allowed just two goals in his last seven periods. Florida has won nine of their last 11 at home, and Bobrovsky has a 2.00 GAA at home in the playoffs" Four of five games in this series have gone under, and the Panthers have failed to reach the total in seven of their last eight overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on DAL.

The Oilers jumped out to an early lead in Game 4, and Dallas couldn't get back into the game. This sets up a nice revenge spot for Dallas on home ice in Game 5, and a let down spot for the Oilers. As talented as Edmonton is, they still have suspect goaltending and their defense could be shorthanded with veteran Chris Tanev seen in a walking boot.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

I had the under in Game 3, and here is what I said before the puck dropped: "Both the first two games of this series have gone under, and the way these two goaltenders are playing there is every reason to expect that trend to continue. Florida has gone under in five straight games, and Sergei Bobrovsky has allowed just two goals in his last seven periods. Florida has won nine of their last 11 at home, and Bobrovsky has a 2.00 GAA at home in the playoffs"

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

Both the first two games of this series have gone under, and the way these two goaltenders are playing there is every reason to expect that trend to continue. Florida has gone under in five straight games, and Sergei Bobrovsky has allowed just two goals in his last seven periods. Florida has won nine of their last 11 at home, and Bobrovsky has a 2.00 GAA at home in the playoffs.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

These teams averaged 1 goal per period in Game 1, as the Oilers won in double overtime. The Oilers held a 2-1 lead late in the third, but Dallas tied the game to force overtime. After a scoreless overtime period, Connor McDavid ended the game early in the second overtime. Stuart Skinner stopped 31 of 33 shots, and Jake Oettinger stopped 35 of 38 shots. Oettinger robbed McDavid with a highlight reel save in overtime. We can expect another low scoring battle here in Game 2.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on EDM.

Heading into Game 6 in Edmonton, there were rumors about the health of Connor McDavid. He had three assists in the Oilers 5-1 win, and now Edmonton has all the momentum heading into Game 7. Arturs Silovs was lit up for five goals on 27 shots, and he is in a tough spot here tonight. The Canucks will be without their leading scorer Brock Boeser, who is sidelined with blood clots. It's a huge loss for the Canucks, and they are going to be up against it in Game 7.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Oilers face elimination in Game 6, and Connor McDavid might not be 100 percent. He was held off the scoresheet in Game 5, and he has just one point over the last three games. The first three games of this series all went over the total, but the last two games have gone under. Edmonton made a change between the pipes, with Calvin Pickard coming in to replace Stuart Skinner. Pickard has been solid, but Artus Silovs has been even better. We saw two elimination games in the NHL last night, and it was no surprise they both went under the total. Both teams should be ultra cautious here in Game 6 in Edmonton.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on COL. 

The Avs avoided elimination in Game 5 in Dallas, winning 5-3. They are back on home ice tonight, looking to force a Game 7 in Dallas. Colorado had the best home record in the NHL during the regular season, and they have seized the momentum in this series. Here is what I said before Game 3: "The Avs stole home ice advantage in the series with a win in Game 1 in Dallas, and that's great news for Colorado fans as their team had the best home record in the NHL this season. The Avs were 31-9-1 at home, and perhaps aided by the elevation in Denver. Colorado won three of four meetings during the regular season, and they are 7-3 in their last 10 versus Dallas. The Avs lead the playoffs in scoring and they rank second on the power play this post-season.:

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The first two games of this series went over the total, and the last two games have gone under the number. With the Avs facing elimination on the road in Game 5, we expect scoring chances to be few and far between. The Stars have gone under in nine of their last 12 home games, and the under is 15-5 in their last 20 overall. Jake Oettinger has allowed just two goals on 54 shots in his last two starts.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on COL.

I had Colorado in Game 3, and this is what I said before the game: "The Avs stole home ice advantage in the series with a win in Game 1 in Dallas, and that's great news for Colorado fans as their team had the best home record in the NHL this season. The Avs were 31-9-1 at home, and perhaps aided by the elevation in Denver. Colorado won three of four meetings during the regular season, and they are 7-3 in their last 10 versus Dallas. The Avs lead the playoffs in scoring and they rank second on the power play this post-season." Colorado needs to bounce back after back to back losses, they haven't lost three straight since February.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on EDM.

The Canucks pulled off a miracle comeback in Game 1, and then blew a late lead and lost in overtime in Game 2. The Oilers come home with home ice advantage in the series, and they have really been clicking on the power play. Edmonton has scored 11 goals on the man advantage in seven games this post-season. The Canucks have scored just three, and they have played one more game. Goaltending is not a strength for either of these teams, but Edmonton has a clear advantage.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Colorado.

The Avs stole home ice advantage in the series with a win in Game 1 in Dallas, and that's great news for Colorado fans as their team had the best home record in the NHL this season. The Avs were 31-9-1 at home, and perhaps aided by the elevation in Denver. Colorado won three of four meetings during the regular season, and they are 7-3 in their last 10 versus Dallas. The Avs lead the playoffs in scoring and they rank second on the power play this post-season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

The Canucks won all four meetings in this series during the regular season, and three of the four games saw 7 or more goals. The Canucks are down to their 3rd string goaltender, 23 year old Latvian Aturs Silovs. The Oilers went over in four of five games in the first round, and I expect Edmonton to come out hot here in Vancouver. Edmonton scored two first period goals in Game 1 versus LA, one in Game 2 and three in Game 3. The Oilers power play was one of the best in the league in the regular season, and they are converting on an incredible 45 percent of their chances in the playoffs.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Under.

The Rangers are coming off a four game sweep of the Capitals, and they went under the total in three of those four games. Dating back to the regular season they have failed to reach the total in six of their last seven. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin is 4-0 with a 1.75 GAA in the playoffs, and Carolina has Frederick Anderson is 4-1 with a 2.25 GAA in the post-season. Carolina has gone under in 10 of their last 14 versus the Eastern Conference, and they have failed to reach the total in four of their last five versus New York.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on BOS.

Both these teams have their share of demons when it comes to Game 7, but I think the Bruins have an edge here on home ice. Boston has lost three straight Game 7s dating back to 2019. That said they have won 4-of-5 versus the Leafs. One of those was back in 2013 when the Leafs held a 4-1 lead late in a Game 7 at Boston. The Bruins scored three goals in the final five minutes to force OT and won 5-4. I think Toronto turns over the same Leaf here in Game 7.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on NASH.

The most important player in a playoff series is almost always the goaltender, and that is not good news for the Vancouver Canucks. Their #1 goaltender Thatcher Demko is sidelined with an injury, and now they have to choose between a struggling backup netminder or and inexperienced third string goaltender. Nashville rallied to win in OT in Game 5, and I like their chances of forcing a Game 7 in Vancouver.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on BOS.

The Bruins are in a revenge spot here after losing Game 5 on home ice. Head coach Jim Mongomery lamented a slow start:

"We wanted to review the game and where we went wrong," said Montgomery. "We started talking about where we need to get better. Some of that's physical. Some of it is mental. Some of it is staying in the moment. I don't think we did a good enough job staying in the moment last night. That's what we're looking for [in our] next game."

We should see the Bruins come out like gangbusters in Game 6, and superior goaltending should allow them to end the series in Toronto.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on BOS.

I had the Bruins in Game 1, and here is what I said before the series started:

"The Bruins have been historically one of the most successful teams in history in the NHL Playoffs. That includes recent history as well as long term. The Leafs on the other hand are notorious for their futility in the playoffs. Boston has owned the Leafs, sweeping the season series and winning seven straight meetings dating back to January of 2023. The most important factor in a playoff series is almost always goaltending, and the Leafs starter Ilya Samsonov has allowed 11 goals on 52 shots in his last two starts. He ranks 38th in the 32 team league with a GAA of 3.18. The Bruins starter Jeremy Swayman ranks in the Top 10 in GAA (2.53) and Top 5 in save percentage (.916). Boston is tougher, better defensively and built for success in the post-season."

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on VGK

Dallas finished first in the Western Conference during the regular season, but if you're a Stars fan you might as well whipe your backside with the paper that those standings was printed on. Dallas finished 15 points ahead of the Golden Knights, but that doesn't do them a lick of good here down 0-2 going back to Sin City for Game 3. For whatever reason, the Knights have their number. The defending champs won last season's Western Conference Final in six games, after going up 3-0 in the first three games of the series. You know History Repeats Itself!

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Colorado.

The Avs have the best home record in the NHL, and they come back to Denver with the series tied 1-1. In other words, they have em right where they want em! When you look at Colorado's Game 1 loss it's significant that they owned a 46-23 edge in shots on goal, and if you look at more advanced analytics they held an edge of 4.83 to 2.16 in expected goal situations. The bottom line is that the Avs goaltending let them down. Alex Georgiev though is 24-6 with a 2.75 GAA at home this season. The better team should get the win on home ice here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on BOS.

Here is what I said prior to Game 1: "The Bruins have been historically one of the most successful teams in history in the NHL Playoffs. That includes recent history as well as long term. The Leafs on the other hand are notorious for their futility in the playoffs. Boston has owned the Leafs, sweeping the season series and winning seven straight meetings dating back to January of 2023. The most important factor in a playoff series is almost always goaltending, and the Leafs starter Ilya Samsonov has allowed 11 goals on 52 shots in his last two starts. He ranks 38th in the 32 team league with a GAA of 3.18. The Bruins starter Jeremy Swayman ranks in the Top 10 in GAA (2.53) and Top 5 in save percentage (.916). Boston is tougher, better defensively and built for success in the post-season." It became immediately clear that the Leafs have goaltending issues, and it's unlikely that they can correct that overnight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on WPG.

The Jets host the Avs in Game 1 of the first round, and Colorado is a public favorite to win the Stanley Cup. The Avs are almost unbeatable on home ice, but this is the great white north, and not an easy place to play. Winnipeg has the better goaltender in perennial Vezina candidate Connor Hellebuyck, who is 2nd in the NHL in save percentage (.921), and wins (37), as well as Top 5 in GAA (2.39). The Jets come in riding an eight game win streak.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on BOS.

The Bruins have been historically one of the most successful teams in history in the NHL Playoffs. That includes recent history as well as long term. The Leafs on the other hand are notorious for their futility in the playoffs. Boston has owned the Leafs, sweeping the season series and winning seven straight meetings dating back to January of 2023. The most important factor in a playoff series is almost always goaltending, and the Leafs starter Ilya Samsonov has allowed 11 goals on 52 shots in his last two starts. He ranks 38th in the 32 team league with a GAA of 3.18. The Bruins starter Jeremy Swayman ranks in the Top 10 in GAA (2.53) and Top 5 in save percentage (.916). Boston is tougher, better defensively and built for success in the post-season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on MIN.

In a game between two teams that have long been eliminated from the playoffs, on the last day of the regular season, we like the home team coming off back to back road wins. The Kraken have lost six of their last seven versus the Wild, and Minnesota has just enough momentum to motivate them to give a good showing on home ice in their final game this season. The Kraken have one foot on the golf course, off season plans at the top of mind.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on DET.

The Wings are still in a good spot to clinch a Wild Card spot, wrapping up the season with a home and home against Montreal. The Habs have long been eliminated from the playoffs, and their minds should be on the gold course. The Wings have won five of the last seven in this series, and the Habs have lost five of their last six overall. This should be a one-sided affair in the Motor City.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on DET.

The Wings are still in a good spot to clinch a Wild Card spot, wrapping up the season with a home and home against Montreal. The Habs have long been eliminated from the playoffs, and their minds should be on the gold course. The Wings have won five of the last seven in this series, and the Habs have lost five of their last six overall. This should be a one-sided affair in the Motor City.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on PIT.

The Pens are still alive in the Wild Card race, but they need to win out and hope Washington and or Detroit slip up. They host Nashville tonight, and the Preds have already booked their ticket to the playoffs. The Pens have won five of the last seven meetings in this series, and all three home games during that span. Sidney Crosby has turned back the clock, scoring six goals and adding five assists in his last seven games. The Pens should take care of business in Steel Town tonight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on SJS +1.5.

The Sharks are not a good hockey team, but this might be a good spot for them playing their final home game against a Minnesota Wild team that has recently been eliminated for the playoffs and was blown out by a score of 7-2 in Las Vegas last night. Since Marc Andre Fleury got the start last night, we should see Filip Gustavson between the pipes tonight. He's lost four of his last five starts, and he's allowed nine goals in his last two starts. The Sharks are 5-2 ATS in their last seven overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on EDM.

The Oilers still have plenty to play for here with just a few games left in the regular season. They trail both Winnipeg and Colorado by two points, and home ice advantage in the first round is up for grabs if they can catch either of those two teams. The Oilers host Vancouver, and the Canucks have been struggling. Vancouver has lost six of nine, and their #1 goaltender hasn't seen the ice since March. Thatcher Demko is rumored to be ready to return, but how sharp can he be after a long layoff.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on DET +1.5.

The Maple Leafs are currently sitting in 5th in the East, and their chances of catching 4th place Florida are pretty slim sitting five points back. The Red Wings are still fighting for a Wild Card spot, sitting just one point back of eighth place Pittsburgh. Detroit has lost seven of their last nine overall, but the Wings are 10-1 ATS in those games. They have won three of their last four versus Toronto, and they are 4-0 ATS in those games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on VGK.

The Golden Knights loaded up at the trade deadline in preparation for another run at the Stanley Cup. The defending champs still haven't clinched a playoff birth, and while it might be just a technicality they can make it official on home ice tonight as they host the Minnesota Wild. Minnesota has been officially eliminated from the playoffs, and that might have them thinking about the golf course.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on NYI.

The Habs are ready for the golf course, while the Islanders are looking to gear up for a playoff run. New York is far from safe however, just two points clear of the final Wild Card spot in the East. The Penguins and the Capitals are hot on their heels, making tonight's home game versus Montreal a must win. The home team has won five straight in this series, and the Isles should extend that streak tonight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on PIT.

The Penguins have won four straight at home, including a 6-3 win over the Detroit Red Wings. These two teams are battling for a Wild Card spot, and Detroit has struggled down the stretch. The Wings have lost six of their last eight overall, and two of those losses came in games against the Capitals who are also fighting for one of the final two playoff spots in the East. After failing to win a must win game over the Caps at home, it's hard to trust Detroit on the road here against Sidney Crosby and the Pens.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on TB.

The Lightning host the Sens in a late season game in Tampa, and the Sens should have one foot on the golf course at this point in the season. Tampa Bay has already locked in a playoff spot, and while they might not be playing for seeding, it's still important to take a bit of momentum into the playoffs. Andrei Vasilevskij was on fire in the month of March, going 8-1 with a 2.39 GAA in 10 starts. He's won five of his last six home starts, and he has a historically good record in his career at home.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on COL.

Dallas sits 1st in the Western Conference standings, three points clear of Colorado. The Stars are on the road for the second game of a back to back in Denver tonight, and the Avs have the best home record in the NHL. History favors the home team as Colorado is 6-1 in their last seven versus Dallas and 3-0 at home during that span. Alexandar Georgiev is 23-4 with a 2.54 GAA at home this season. This appears to be a tough spot for the road team.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on EDM.

The Battle of Alberta was once one of the most heated rivalries in sports, but it has been rather one-sided lately. The Oilers have won eight of the last 10, and they are 5-0 in their last five at the Saddledome. The Flames already have one foot on the golf course, while Edmonton is gearing up for a potential Stanley Cup run. The Oilers still have plenty to play for as they jockey for seeding in the Western Conference.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on ANA +1.5.

The Kraken will be a road favorite at Anaheim in a meaningless late season game between two teams that won't be going to the playoffs. These type of situations normally favor the home team, but Anaheim has lost three of their last four home games versus Seattle. A closer look reveals that the Ducks are 5-0 ATS as a puckline underdog in their last five home games versus the Kraken.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on NYI.

The Isles are in Columbus tonight, and this is a must win game as they sit one point back of the final Wild Card sport currently held by Washington. History favors the visitors, as New York has won eight of the last nine head to head and three of their last four at Columbus. The Blue Jackets have the worst record in the Eastern Conference, and any wins at the end of the season will only hurt their potential for a top pick in next year's draft. This will be a motivational mismatch with the Blue Jackets having one foot on the golf course and the Isles eyeing the playoffs.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on ARI +1.5.

The Canucks have lost three straight, but they still sit comfortably in first in the Pacific five points ahead of Edmonton. They play the second game of a back to back on the road tonight in Arizona, and they got thrashed in a 6-3 loss Vegas last night. You would assume third string goalie Aturs Silvos will start in net for Vancouver tonight, and he allowed two goals on 22 shots in a 3-2 home win over Anaheim in his NHL debut over the weekend. While Vancouver has won three of the last four head to head meetings, all three wins came in games decided by one goal. Arizona has won five of their last eight, and Josh Doan (son of Coyotes legend Shane Doan) has a pair of goals and three assists in three games since being called up.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on VGK.

The Canucks might have the best record in the Pacific Division, but they have cooled off as the playoffs near. Vancouver is just 4-4 in their last eight, while Vegas is 8-3 in their last 12. The Golden Knights bolstered their roster at the trade deadline in an effort to defend their title. Logan Thompson is 13-5 with a 2.17 GAA in 17 home starts for the Golden Knights. Vancouver is coming off an unimpressive 3-2 home win over Anaheim, avoiding a third straight loss with a later game winner from a guy who has spent the majority of his career in the minors (Dakota Joshua).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on TB.

The Lightning are holding one of the Wild Card spots in the East, a position that the Red Wings were favored to be in just a few weeks ago. Detroit has just three wins in it's last 15 games, and any hopes of making the playoffs have been dashed. This is a revenge game for Tampa, as they lost at Detroit in January. Andrei Vasilevskij appears to be in Vezina form once again, going 8-1 with a 2.39 GAA in the month of March.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on VAN.

The Canucks have lost back to back games, but the first place team in the Pacific is in a good spot here at home versus Anaheim on Sunday. The Ducks are not going to the playoffs, and they lost 6-1 in Edmonton yesterday. With the Ducks playing the second game of a back to back, this looks like a "get right" game for Vancouver. The Ducks have lost six straight in this series, and their last trip to Vancouver was a 3-1 defeat back in Novermber.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on COL.

The Predators came into Arizona on Thursday as the hottest team in the NHL, but the bubble burst as they lost 8-4 to the Coyotes. The loss ended a streak of 19 straight games earning at least a point. It doesn't get any easier tonight in Colorado. The Avs are just three points out of first in the West, and they have the league's best home record. The Preds are 2-8 in their last 10 versus Colorado, losing all four at Denver during that span.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on ARI.

Here is what I said prior to the Coyotes 6-2 win over Columbus: "Neither of these teams are heading to the playoffs, so who is going to be motivated here in Arizona? Well the Coyotes have been competitive at home all year long, and they do have a winning record on home ice. They may have added motivation tonight with the son of Coyotes legend Shane Doan making his NHL debut. The former collegiate player leads all rookies in the AHL with 26 goals and 46 points for the Tuscon Roadrunners. The Coyotes have won three straight head to head versus the Jackets. Columbus has lost eight of it's last 10 overall and five straight on the road." Doan scored two goals in his debut, and the Yotes should be all fired up here as he gets set to play his second career game in the NHL. I like Arizona as a home dog.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on ARI.

Neither of these teams are heading to the playoffs, so who is going to be motivated here in Arizona? Well the Coyotes have been competitive at home all year long, and they do have a winning record on home ice. They may have added motivation tonight with the son of Coyotes legend Shane Doan making his NHL debut. The former collegiate player leads all rookies in the AHL with 26 goals and 46 points for the Tuscon Roadrunners. The Coyotes have won three straight head to head versus the Jackets. Columbus has lost eight of it's last 10 overall and five straight on the road.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Devils.

While the playoffs are unlikely for the Devils, they are a long lost cause for the Ottawa Senators. New Jersey still has a chance, sitting six points out of the final Wild Card with a dozen games remaining. They addressed their biggest weakness when they picked up Jake Allen via trade, the veteran netminder is 4-1 with a 2.01 GAA since joining the Devils. The Senators have lost three straight, and they have been lit up for 18 goals in those games. I'll take the Devils as a home favorite in this spot. The Sens season is over, while the Devils still have something to play for.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on VGK.

I have bet on Vegas in their last two games, and here is what I said prior to a home loss to Tampa: "The Golden Knights are still sitting in the final Wild Card spot in the West, and desperate for some breathing room. With only a dozen games left, a home game against Tampa Bay is a good spot to back the Knights. While Tampa is also sitting in a Wild Card spot, they come off a huge win over Florida in the first game of this road trip, setting them up for a let down tonight. Perennial Vezina candidate Andrei Vasilevskij has struggled this season, posting career worst numbers in GAA and save percentage. Vegas is still pumped up after a haul at the trade deadline, and newly acquired talent will get a chance to shine tonight." The loss puts even more pressure on the Knights tonight, and it comes against lesser opposition. Should be a blowout!

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on VGK,

The Golden Knights are still sitting in the final Wild Card spot in the West, and desperate for some breathing room. With only a dozen games left, a home game against Tampa Bay is a good spot to back the Knights. While Tampa is also sitting in a Wild Card spot, they come off a huge win over Florida in the first game of this road trip, setting them up for a let down tonight. Perennial Vezina candidate Andrei Vasilevskij has struggled this season, posting career worst numbers in GAA and save percentage. Vegas is still pumped up after a haul at the trade deadline, and newly acquired talent will get a chance to shine tonight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on VGK.

Vegas is back home after losing 4-1 in Calgary on Thursday, hosting a New Jersey Devils team playing the second game of a back to back. The Devils are coming off a 4-1 loss at Arizona, and they are in a downward spiral. New Jersey has fallen all the way to 12th in the Eastern Conference after losing nine of 12. They are six points out of a playoff spot, and hopes are fading. The Vegas Golden Knights made a statement at the trade deadline, and they appear ready to go on a run. The Knights are currently occupying the final Wild Card spot in the West, and surely they have intentions to move up in the standings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on DET.

The Wings are currently out of the playoffs, tied with the New York Islanders with 72 points. The Isles hold the final Wild Card spot by virtue of the tie breaker. With the season hanging in the balance, they host the Arizona Coyotes in a must win game. They couldn't pick a better opponent, as the Coyotes are 5-20 in their last 25 games overall, and only two of those wins came on the road. One of those five wins was a 4-0 shutout win over Detroit, setting up a nice revenge angle here in the Motor City.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on VGK.

Vegas is serious about defending it's Stanley Cup championship, making a ton of deals at the deadline to shore up their lineup. They added Noah Hanifin, Anthony Mantha and Thomas Hertl, and Mantha and Hanifin are already in the lineup. Vegas has plenty of work to do, as they are currently sitting in the final Wild Card spot in the West. They can't afford to leave any points on the table, and this looks like a good spot to take advantage of a struggling Seattle team. The Kraken are eight points back of the final Wild Card spot, and not a serious contender to make the playoffs.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on VGK.

The defending champs are slumping, and they find themselves clinging to a Wild Card spot. That makes tonight's game against the Wings a must win. They catch Detroit playing the second game of a back to back off a 4-0 loss in Arizona. Detroit comes in off four straight losses, and they are likely to start their backup goalie here in the second game of a back to back. The Knights got a haul at the trade deadline, widely considered the biggest winners. They should be pumped up on home ice tonight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on TOR.

The Leafs are 5th in the Eastern Conference standings, which could be considered underachieving when you consider their payroll. They still have the #2 power play in the league, and that could be the difference here at home versus Buffalo. The Sabres power play is one of the worst in the league, converting on just 16 percent of their chances. The Leafs lost at Buffalo earlier this season by a score of 9-3, setting up a big revenge spot here in Toronto.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on COL.

The Stars lost in overtime last night versus the Islanders, and they play the second game of a back to back on the road at Colorado. The Avs have the best home record in the NHL, and they are looking to bounce back from a loss to Toronto on Saturday. The Avs have won five of their last six versus Dallas, and starting goalie Alexander Georgiev is 18-4 with a 2.60 GAA in 22 home starts. Nathan McKinnon (2nd in the NHL in scoring) has tallied 59 points in 28 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on VAN.

The Canucks have lost three straight, yet they still have the best record in the league. Boston sits just one point back with a game in hand. Vancouver looks to bounce back on the road at Seattle, and this is a spot where they have had some success. They have won seven of the last 10 versus the Kraken, and they are 4-1 in their last five at Seattle. After losing nine of their last 13 overall, the Kraken have slim hopes of playing in the post-season. Going back the last two seasons, Seattle actually has more wins on the road than they have on home ice. This looks like a good spot to back the road favorite.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on VGK.

This looks like a let down spot for the Canes, playing the second game of a back to back on the road at Vegas. Only the Colorado Avalanche have more home wins than the Golden Knights, and Vegas might have an even better record if it hadn't been for an injury to starting goaltender Adin Hill. He ranks 1st in the NHL in save percentage, and 2nd in GAA. Hill is 7-2 with a 1.86 GAA 11 home starts. The Canes might turn to Spencer Martin between the pipes in this second game of a back to back, and he's 1-4 with a 3.95 GAA in five road starts.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on BOS.

The Bruins are coming off back to back home losses to Tampa and Washington, but I don't envision them losing a third straight home game against Seattle Thursday. The Bruins are still sitting in first place in the Eastern Conference, and they are 17-6-4 on home ice. The Kraken have just three wins in their last 11 games. They won in overtime at the Islanders on Tuesday, and they have lost three of four versus Boston. Seattle's #1 goaltender was lights out in January, but he's 0-2 with a 3.00 GAA in two starts this month. This looks like a tough spot for Seattle.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on CAR.

The Devils got off to a hot start this season, but they come into Carolina as losers of three of their last four. New Jersey is one of the highest scoring teams in the NHL averaging 3.45 goals per game, but the problem is they allow opponents to average a whopping 3.57 goals per game. History favors the Canes who have won six of the last seven meetings and four straight home games versus the Devils.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on NYR.

The Rangers have won three of the last four meetings in this series, and New York has a solid home record this season (16-7). Veteran netminder Jonathan Quick is 7-1 with a 2.62 GAA at home this season. His counterpart Andrei Vasilevskiy is also far better at home than he is on the road. Vasilevskiy is 6-7 with a 3.26 GAA on the road. He allowed five goals in a loss in his only start versus the Rangers. Tampa has lost six of their last seven at MSG, and this looks like a tough spot coming out of the All Star break.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on VGK.

The Oilers were the hottest team in the NHL prior to the All Star break, but over the years I have learned that All Star weekend is where hot streaks and slumps go to die. The Golden Knights have a record of 18-5-2 at home, and only the Colorado Avalanche have more home wins than Vegas. The Knights are listed as the underdog here, and that's likely due to the injury to Jack Eichel. It's my opinion that the return of the #1 ranked goaltender in the NHL (Adin Hill) is more significant than the loss of Jack Eichel. This looks like a case of the wrong team favored.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a play on NYI +1.5.

The Isles are six points out of the final Wild Card spot in the East, currently occupied by the Toronto Maple Leafs. They come into Toronto tonight as losers of four of their last five, but they are 5-0 ATS as a puckline underdog in those games. The Leafs have won four of their last five games, but they are just 2-3 ATS as a puckline favorite during that span. History favors the underdog here, as the Isles have won four of the last five head to head meetings. Three of those games went to overtime. We should be expecting another close game here tonight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on NYI.

The Isles are coming off back to back losses in one goal games. They battled back to tie the game at Montreal only to conceded the game winner late in the third period. Prior to that they dominated play against the Golden Knights but ran into a hot goaltender. Now they are back at home, catching the Florida Panthers in the second game of a back to back after winning in a shootout last night. The Islanders are playing just their fourth game under new head coach Patrick Roy, and they are likely to be the more motivated team here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on COL.

So the Avs are now tied with Winnipeg for the top spot in the Central Division. They take a struggling LA Kings team that has fallen to fourth place in the Pacific. The Kings have one of the best road records in the NHL, but they have lost five of their last six on the road. Look no further than goaltending, as Cam Talbot is 0-5-2 with a 4.04 GAA in his last seven starts. Alexander Georgiev is 15-3 with a 2.67 GAA at home this season. The Kings are 3-7 in their last 10 versus Colorado.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on NYI.

The Isles won in OT in Patrick Roy's coaching debut, and they ran into a hot goaltender in his second game behind the bench. They held a 42-27 advantage in shots on goal, but they lost 3-2 to Adin Hill and the Vegas Golden Knights. Now it will be a return to Montreal for Patrick Roy, which is sure to be an emotional experience. The Habs have lost six of eight, and they will likely prove no match for an Islanders squad highly motivated to make a good impression on their new coach.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on NYI.

This is a play on spot for New York, who have recently hired Hall of Fame goaltender Patrick Roy as their new head coach. We saw the St. Louis Blues win five of six after firing their coach, and the Edmonton Oilers are the hottest team in the NHL since firing their head coach. The Isles catch Dallas playing the second game of a back to back. Islanders netminder Ilya Sorokin is 9-3 with a 2.95 GAA at home this season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on VGK.

The Knights host the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday night, and the bookmakers might have over compensated for the injury to Jack Eichel. Vegas is riding a hot goaltender in Logan Thompson, who is 10-4 with a 2.16 GAA at home this season. He's also posted a 2.17 GAA in the month of January. The Golden Knights have the best home record in the NHL, with 17 wins in Sin City. They also have the edge in special teams play, and the Penguins struggling power play might just cost them here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Dallas.

These two teams are trending in opposite directions. The Kings have lost eight of their last nine overall, and five of their last six on the road. They #1 goaltender Cam Talbot is 0-5 with a 3.59 GAA in his last five starts. The Stars have won three of their last four, and they are just five points out of first place in the Central Division. The Stars have won four of their last five home games against LA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Blues.

The Bruins come limping into St. Louis at the end of a brutal road trip. Not only did they lose all three games at Vegas, Arizona and Colorado, but all three games went to overtime. The Bruins are 3-0 in their last three versus the Blues, but two of those wins came in OT. The Blues are 6-3 ATS as a puckline dog in the last nine meetings. The Blues have a better home record than the Bruins have on the road... could this be a case of the wrong team favored?

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on NASH.

The Preds will look to bounce back from a poor performance, losing at home to the Anaheim Ducks. The Stars are coming off back to back wins over Minnesota, and could be due for a let down. History suggests we could see a close game, as despite Dallas winning six of the last 10 meetings, the Preds are 7-3 ATS in those games. We might see backup netminder Scott Wedgewood start for Dallas, giving the visitors an edge between the pipes.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Seattle Kraken are the hottest team in the league, riding the hottest goaltender in the NHL. Seattle has won seven straight, and Joey Dacord is 6-0 with a 1.00 GAA during that span. The Kraken are in Washington tonight, and the Caps welcome back their top netminder, who ranks Top 5 in the league in GAA. These two teams failed to reach the total in both meetings last season, and this looks like a potential goaltending duel.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on STL +1.5.

The Blues are playing far better since firing head coach Craig Berube, yet they are an underdog at home versus Florida. The Panthers have won seven straight, but the final game of a road trip could be a let down spot. History favors the Blues who are 6-2 in the last eight meetings, and 8-0 as a puckline underdog during that span. Binnington has allowed just two goals in his last two starts, and he's 9-4 with a 2.87 GAA at home this season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Kraken come into Buffalo as winners of six straight, and they have gone under the total in all six of those games. They are riding a red hot goaltender in Joey Dacord, who is 5-0 with a 1.00 GAA over his last five starts. The Sabres own one of the worst power play units in the NHL, and Seattle is only slightly better. Buffalo has failed to reach the total in four of their last five games, and the under is 12-6 in their last 18 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on EDM.

The Oilers have won six in a row, and they are 13-3 since firing Jay Woodcroft. The Oilers have won four of their last five home games against the Senators, and they covered the puckline in all of those wins. The Senators come in with a 4-10 road record, and they lost both the first two games of this road trip by a combined score of 10-4. This game could well be decided on special teams, and Edmonton's top ranked power play matches up against the Senators 29th ranked penalty killing unit.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Islanders will be a slight favorite on the road at Arizona tonight, and these teams have a history of playing low scoring games. The under is 8-1-1 in the last 10 head to head meetings, and five of those games saw one of the two teams shutout. The Coyotes are coming off a 4-1 loss to Florida, in a game that was tied 1-1 in the third period. We expect another low score here between two teams that play a more defensive style.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Devils are one of the top offensive teams in the NHL, and they lead the league in power play percentage (30.3). They rank near the bottom of the league in goals against, and their penalty killing unit is among the league's worst. The Washington Capitals are playing the second game of a back to back at home, and their top goaltender is out of the lineup. Second string goaltender Darcy Keumper has allowed 13 goals in his last three starts. Keumper ranks 37th in the NHL with a GAA of 3.15.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on ARI +1.5.

The Panthers come into Arizona as a favorite, but the Coyotes home record is superior to Florida's road record. Florida is 3-2 straight up in their last five at Arizona, failing to cover the puckline in four of those five games. The Coyotes have won six of their last seven overall, and their #1 goaltender Connor Ingram is coming off a shutout. He's 8-3 with a 2.19 GAA and a .926 save percentage in 11 starts at home. The Coyotes are 15-5 ATS as a puckline underdog in his 20 starts overall this season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on STL.

The Blues are 5-2 since firing head coach Craig Berube, and they have covered the spread as a puckline underdog in six of those seven games. While this is the back end of a back to back for St. Louis, it's the front end of a back to back for the Penguins. With the second leg coming against a division rival, and the first leg an out of conference game, the Pens might be looking ahead. We could see backup goaltenders involved in this game, and the Blues backup goaltender is coming off back to back wins allowing just 1 goal in each game. His overall numbers on the year are superior to starter Jordan Binnington. The Blues are 3-1 ATS in their last four versus Pittsburgh.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on ARI.

The Yotes have won four of their last five, and the one loss came on the road at Colorado. That sets up a revenge spot in the second half of this home and home series. Home ice has been kind to the Coyotes, who are 11-5 at home. Arizona has won three of their last four home games versus Colorado, and they covered the puckline in all four of those games. They are 7-1 in their last eight home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on TB.

The Lightning sit in fourth place in the Atlantic, behind the Florida Panthers. Their starting goaltender Andrei Vasilevskij missed some time due to injury, and that likely affected their overall record. Of course he wasn't sharp in his first few games back from injury, but he's won seven of his last 10 starts. He's 4-1 with a 1.81 GAA at home this season, and he's 62-19 at home since 2020.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on WAS +1.5.

The Capitals have been quite competitive in recent weeks, winning five of their last eight games. They are 7-1 ATS as a puckline underdog in those games. The Rangers are in first place in the Metropolitan Division, and they have won eight of their last 12. New York is just 3-12 ATS as a puckline favorite during that span. Charlie Lindgren is 7-3 with a 2.29 GAA and a .928 save percentage this season. That ranks among the league leaders in both categories.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on STL.

The Blues have won three of four since firing Craig Berube, and they have a pretty favorable matchup here at home versus Chicago. The Blackhawks are coming off a 5-2 home loss to Montreal, and playing on the road in the second game of a back to back two days before Christmas is a tough game to get up for. The Hawks are just 4-12 on the road, and they have lost three of their last four at St. Louis.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on TB.

This is a tough spot for the Knights playing on the road at Tampa just days before Christmas. Andrei Vasilevskij is back for the Bolts, and he's up to his old tricks. The perennial Vezina candidate is a brick wall at home. He's 3-1 with a 1.26 GAA at home this season, and he was 20-8 with a 2.57 GAA at home last year. He's 61-19 at home since 2020. The Knights have been forced to start third string goalie Jiri Patera due to injuries to Adin Hill and Logan Thompson.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on STL +1.5.

After firing their head coach, the struggling Edmonton Oilers rattled off an eight game winning streak. The St. Louis Blues fired their head coach last week, and have since won back to back games. The Blues are an underdog on the road in Tampa, and the Lightning have just returned home from a five game road trip. While the first game back from a road trip is often a flat spot, perhaps it's even more so less than a week away from Christmas. The Lightning are just 4-10 ATS as a puckline favorite in their last 14 games overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on NASH.

The Preds are one of the hottest teams in the NHL. They have won 11 of their last 14 straight up, and they have covered as a puckline underdog in 12 of those games. These teams have a history of playing close games, with five of the last eight head to head meetings decided by one goal. The Canes are 6-4 straight up in the last 10 meetings, but they are 3-7 ATS as a puckline favorite in those games. This will be the second game of a back to back for Carolina, coming off a 2-1 win at Detroit. Carolina is just 2-6 ATS as a puckline favorite in their last eight overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on STL.

The Edmonton Oilers come into tonight's home game against Tampa riding an eight game winning streak. This comes after a brutal start to the season, and lines up with the firing of former head coach Jay Woodcroft. The St. Louis Blues have fired their head coach Craig Berube, and they are hoping for a similar turnaround. The Blues are 7-3 in the last 10 meetings, and they have won three of their last four home meetings versus Ottawa. We should see a strong effort from the Blues here with Drew Bannister making his debut as the new coach.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on DET.

So the Canes come into the Motor City as a big favorite, but both of these teams have 15 wins on the season. The Canes have fewer road wins than the Wings have at home, and I think the books have the wrong team favored here. Carolina is 4-6 SU in their last 10 overall, but just 3-7 ATS as a puckline favorite in that game. History favors Detroit here, as the Wings have won six of the last 10 versus Carolina, and they've covered the puckline in seven of 10. Detroit has covered as a puckline underdog in 12 of their last 14 games overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Under.

The Jets lost by a score of 2-1 in San Jose last night, and they come limping into LA without their leading scorer Kyle Connor. The good news is that perennial Vezina candidate Connor Hellebuyck will be back between the pipes tonight. While he ranks in the Top 10 in GAA, Cam Talbot ranks 2nd in the NHL with a 1.91 GAA. Special teams could help both netminders, as both these teams have elite penalty killing units, and neither team is that great on the power play. The under is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings, and three of the last four in LA have gone under the number.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on SJS.

The Sharks are a bad team, maybe even the worst team in the NHL. That being said, they have been playing a lot better lately. They have won five of their last eight overall, but they are 7-1 ATS as a puckline underdog in those games. The Jets are in town, and history favors the Sharks. San Jose is 6-4 SU in their last 10 versus Winnipeg, and 7-3 ATS as a puckline underdog in those games. The Jets might be without their leading scorer Kyle Connor who is scheduled to have an MRI on his knee in San Jose today.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on DET.

The Red Wings have played one fewer game than Dallas, and they have one less point to show for it. They actually have a better road record than the Stars have at home. Dallas is the big favorite here, and the Stars have won eight of the last 10 meetings. Three of the last five meetings were decided in overtime, and six of the last 10 meetings were decided by one goal.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on EDM.

The Oilers fired head coach Jay Woodcroft on November 12th, and they have won eight of 11 since. They come into Sunday's home game against New Jersey as winners of six straight. The Devils have lost five of their last seven in Edmonton, and playing in the second game of a back to back off a win in Calgary, this looks like a tough spot for the visitors.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on EDM.

The Oilers fired head coach Jay Woodcroft on November 12th, and they have won seven of 10 since. They come into tonight's home game against Minnesota as winners of five straight. The home team is 5-0 in the last five meetings between these teams. This is the second game in a back to back for Minnesota off a loss at Vancouver last night. The Wild are 4-11 SU in their last 15 games on the road.

GL,

Jesse Schule