This is a 5* play on Van +1.5.

The Canucks got themselves a veteran goaltender this off-season, and some might consider Braden Holtby an upgrade from Jacob Markstrom. Holtby got the win in the Canucks season opener, stopping 28-of-31 shots against the Oilers. Markstrom was on the losing end of a 4-3 overtime loss at Winnipeg. The Canucks are 8-3 in their last 11 road games, and I like their chances of getting the best of their former netminder.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on WPG.

The Jets will play their season opener against the Calgary Flames, and this sets up a revenge spot versus the team that eliminated them from last year's playoffs. The Jets were decimated by injuries in that series, but they come into this game at full strength. The Jets are 6-2 in their last eight home games, and the home team is 13-6 in the last 19 meetings. In their last full season in the league, the Jets owned the third best home record in the NHL. I'll back Winnipeg as a home underdog.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Montreal +1.5.

The experts have the Leafs projected as favorites to win the North, but the Habs are a close second. Montreal has had the better of recent meetings, winning four straight. Close games have been the trend, with five of the last seven head to head meetings going to overtime. The Habs would be 6-1 on the puckline in those games. Montreal had a fantastic off-season, and they come into the 2021 season in excellent shape with two elite goaltenders in Carey Price and Jake Allen. I'll take the dog here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

5*

This is a 5* play on Over 5.

The Tampa Bay Lightning lead the Stanley Cup Final 3-2, and they can clinch here in Game 6 tonight. Tampa was the highest scoring team in the NHL during the regular season, averaging 3.47 goals per game. Both starting goaltenders have played well overall, but have started to look fatigued in recent games. These teams have a history of playing high scoring games, the over is 17-5-4 in the last 26 meetings. I'll take plus money on the over in this elimination game.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

5*

5*

This is a 5* play on the Dallas Stars.

The Stars will be the underdog in the Stanley Cup Finals, despite the fact that they were far more impressive in their Conference Finals series versus Vegas than Tampa was against the Islanders. The Lightning defeated the Isles in overtime in Game 6, and the 2-1 final was the same score as Game 5, and Game 2. The Stars have seen five of their last six games decided by a single goal, and these two teams have gone to overtime in three of the last five head to head meetings.

Take DAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on the Dallas Stars.

The Stars will be the underdog in the Stanley Cup Finals, despite the fact that they were far more impressive in their Conference Finals series versus Vegas than Tampa was against the Islanders. The Lightning defeated the Isles in overtime in Game 6, and the 2-1 final was the same score as Game 5, and Game 2. The Stars have seen five of their last six games decided by a single goal, and these two teams have gone to overtime in three of the last five head to head meetings.

Take DAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Dallas Stars +1.5.

Coming into this series you could make the argument that Vegas was the better team. They were nearly a 2-1 favorite in Game 1, which they lost 1-0. They have been held to one goal or less in four of their last seven games. Dallas has a chance to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals with a win in Game 5, and at this point it is simply illogical to call Vegas the favorite. Three of the first four games in this series were decided by one goal, and I'll take the Stars as an underdog here on the puckline.

Take DAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Under.

The Stars lead the series 2-1, and we have seen all three games go under the total. Both goalies have recorded shutouts, and another low score is expected in Game 4. Here is what I said prior to Game 2: "The Vegas Golden Knights and the Dallas Stars were each lighting up the scoreboard just last week, but as they have advanced to the conference finals the trend of high scores has faded. The Knights offense cooled off in a big way against Vancouver, and they could only manage 2 goals on 130 shots against Vancouver's backup goaltender Thatcher Demko over a four game span. If you take away the empty net goals they scored in Game 7, they have scored just one goal in their last three games overall. They have gone under in five of their last six Conference Finals games, and the under is 21-7-1 in the Golden Knights last 29 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 days situation."

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse

This is an 8* play on the Under.

This series is tied 1-1, and we have seen just four goals in two games. Both goalies have recorded shutouts, and another low score is expected in Game 3. Here is what I said prior to Game 2: "The Vegas Golden Knights and the Dallas Stars were each lighting up the scoreboard just last week, but as they have advanced to the conference finals the trend of high scores has faded. The Knights offense cooled off in a big way against Vancouver, and they could only manage 2 goals on 130 shots against Vancouver's backup goaltender Thatcher Demko over a four game span. If you take away the empty net goals they scored in Game 7, they have scored just one goal in their last three games overall. They have gone under in five of their last six Conference Finals games, and the under is 21-7-1 in the Golden Knights last 29 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 days situation."

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse

This is an 8* play on the Under.

The Vegas Golden Knights and the Dallas Stars were each lighting up the scoreboard just last week, but as they have advanced to the conference finals the trend of high scores has faded. The Knights offense cooled off in a big way against Vancouver, and they could only manage 2 goals on 130 shots against Vancouver's backup goaltender Thatcher Demko over a four game span. If you take away the empty net goals they scored in Game 7, they have scored just one goal in their last three games overall. They have gone under in five of their last six Conference Finals games, and the under is 21-7-1 in the Golden Knights last 29 in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 days situation.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse

This is a 10* play on Colorado.

The Avs entered this series as roughly a 2-1 favorite, but Dallas looked like the better team winning three of the first four games. Goaltending has played a key role in this series, and after losing their starter, Colorado's second string netminder struggled. Michael Hutchison is the third string goalie, a 30 year old veteran with experience playing for Toronto and Columbus. His play has turned this series on it's head, and now the Stars are on the ropes. The top line of Tyler Seguin, Jamie Benn and Alexander Radulov have tallied just one point in the last two games. I like Colorado to complete the comeback.

Take COL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

    

This is a 5* play on Vancouver.

The Canucks were shutout in a 3-0 loss in Game 3, and they failed to rally to tie the series in Game 4. Here is what I said before this series started: "The Canucks dispatched of the defending Stanley Cup champions in six games, and now they are a big underdog in their second round series versus Las Vegas. Vancouver gives us every reason to expect this to be a competitive series. The Golden Knights have won six of their last seven versus Vancouver, but four of those wins came in games decided by just one goal."

Take VAN.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on TB.

The Lightning fell behind by a score of 3-0 early in Game 1, but it's been all Tampa ever since. History favors the Lightning, as the Bruins are 3-11 in the last 14 meetings. "When you shrink the game to 40 minutes, it's going to be tough on you," coach Jon Cooper said. "I liked a lot of the way our game progressed, but if we're not going to manage the puck the way we did for much of the Columbus series, it'll be tough for us. You can't start games the way we did. It put us on our heels and shortened the game." These teams met in the playoffs two years ago, and Boston won Game 1 of that series. The Lightning went on to win four straight winning the series in five games.

Take TB.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Vancouver.

The Canucks were shutout in a 3-0 loss in Game 3, and need to rally to tie the series here in Game 4. Here is what I said before this series started: "The Canucks dispatched of the defending Stanley Cup champions in six games, and now they are a big underdog in their second round series versus Las Vegas. Vancouver gives us every reason to expect this to be a competitive series. The Golden Knights have won six of their last seven versus Vancouver, but four of those wins came in games decided by just one goal."

Take VAN.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on TB.

The Lightning fell behind by a score of 3-0 early in Game 1, and then they dominated the rest of the game. Their rally fell short, losing by a score of 3-2. History favors the Lightning, as the Bruins are 3-11 in the last 14 meetings. "When you shrink the game to 40 minutes, it's going to be tough on you," coach Jon Cooper said. "I liked a lot of the way our game progressed, but if we're not going to manage the puck the way we did for much of the Columbus series, it'll be tough for us. You can't start games the way we did. It put us on our heels and shortened the game." These teams met in the playoffs two years ago, and Boston won Game 1 of that series. The Lightning went on to win four straight winning the series in five games.

Take TB.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over 5.5.

Both the first two games of this series went over the total, and the Stars have gone over in four of their last five overall. Joe Pavelski (Dallas) and Nathan MacKinnon (Colorado) are tied for the playoff goal scoring lead. The Avs have gone over in each of their last five games, and losing their starting goaltender isn't going to help. Phillip Grubauer was among the league leaders with a GAA of 1.87 this post-season, and his replacement Pavel Francouz has been lit up since stepping in. The over is 9-3-1 in the Avs last 13 Conference Semifinals games, and there is every reason to expect Game 3 to look a lot like Games 1 & 2.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Tampa.

The Lightning fell behind by a score of 3-0 early in Game 1, and then they dominated the rest of the game. Their rally fell short, losing by a score of 3-2. History favors the Lightning, as the Bruins are 3-11 in the last 14 meetings. "When you shrink the game to 40 minutes, it's going to be tough on you," coach Jon Cooper said. "I liked a lot of the way our game progressed, but if we're not going to manage the puck the way we did for much of the Columbus series, it'll be tough for us. You can't start games the way we did. It put us on our heels and shortened the game." These teams met in the playoffs two years ago, and Boston won Game 1 of that series. The Lightning went on to win four straight winning the series in five games.

Take TB.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on Dallas +1.5.

The Avs didn't surprise anybody by beating Arizona in the first round, but Dallas wasn't supposed to beat up Calgary the way they did. The Stars come into Game 1 as a huge underdog, and I really don't see why. Dallas has won four of their last five against Colorado, and the Avalanche are 5-16 in their last 21 Conference Semifinals games. Three of the last five head to head meetings have been decided in overtime. Colorado played a seven game series against the Sharks in last year's Conference Semifinal, and only won one of those games by more than a goal.

Take DAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Vancouver Canucks.

The Canucks dispatched of the defending Stanley Cup champions in six games, and now they are a big underdog in their second round series versus Las Vegas. Vancouver gives us every reason to expect this to be a competitive series. The Golden Knights have won six of their last seven versus Vancouver, but four of those wins came in games decided by just one goal.

Take VAN.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on Dallas.

The Avs didn't surprise anybody by beating Arizona in the first round, but Dallas wasn't supposed to beat up Calgary the way they did. The Stars come into Game 1 as a huge underdog, and I really don't see why. Dallas has won four of their last five against Colorado, and the Avalanche are 5-16 in their last 21 Conference Semifinals games. Three of the last five head to head meetings have been decided in overtime. Colorado played a seven game series against the Sharks in last year's Conference Semifinal, and only won one of those games by more than a goal.

Take DAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Vancouver Canucks.

The defending champions are in trouble heading into Game 6 of this first round series versus Vancouver. The blew a 3- lead in Game 5, losing by a score of 4-3. Now they are not only facing elimination, but their goaltending situation is a complete nightmare. After giving up nine goals in the first two games of the series, Jordan Binnington was benched in favor of Jake Allen. Blues coach Craig Berube hasn't committed to naming his starter for Game 6, after Allen had a poor showing in Game 5. The Canucks can end the series here on Friday, and right now they look like the team that deserves to move on.

Take VAN.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Over 5.

Game 4 of this series was a thriller with the Stars winning 5-4 in overtime. Both goaltenders saw a lot of rubber, and I think we could see another shootout in Game 6. The over is 9-3-1 in the Flames last 13 games as an underdog, and the over is 11-4-1 in the Flames last 16 games playing on 1 days rest. The over is 7-4-4 in the Stars last 15 Conference Quarterfinals games. Special teams could play a role, as both teams scored twice on the power play in Game 4.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the St. Louis Blues.

The defending champs were down 2-0 in this series, and it really looked like this young Vancouver team was poised to record a first round upset. The Blues made a change between the pipes, and Jake Allen has come in and won back to back games. Now the Blues have all the momentum heading into Game 5, and they are just a small favorite. The Blues are 11-5 in their last 16 Conference Quarterfinals games, and the price seems a little low here in a pivotal game for a defending Stanley Cup Championship squad.

Take STL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Over 5.

This series is tied at 2-2, and Game 4 was a thriller with the Stars winning 5-4 in overtime. Both goaltenders saw a lot of rubber, and I think we could see another shootout in Game 5. The over is 9-2-1 in the Flames last 12 games as an underdog, and the over is 11-3-1 in the Flames last 15 games playing on 1 days rest. The over is 7-3-4 in the Stars last 14 Conference Quarterfinals games. Special teams could play a role, as both teams scored twice on the power play in Game 4.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on the Columbus Blue Jackets +1.5.

There is little doubt that the Tampa Lightning are the more talented team. Throughout the course of a regular season a team as skilled as Tampa is going to score more goals and win more games. Put that team up against Comlumbus in a seven game series however, and you have a tough time arguing that Tampa is the better team. Despite being the significant betting favorite, the Lightning are 1-5 in their last six Conference Quarterfinals games. They have lost five of their last seven versus Columbus, and both wins during that span came in overtime.

Take CBJ. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on the Vegas Golden Knights.

Down 3-0 in the series, the Blackhawks could be a defeated team heading into Game 4. That's especially true for players that have been kept in a bubble, away from their families and friends. Bubble life was so bad for the Bruins starting goaltender, he up and quit in the middle of their series versus Carolina. Vegas is a team with a real shot at winning the Stanley Cup, and Chicago is a team ready for the golf course. Vegas has won nine of 10 head to head versus Chicago, and I like them to complete the sweep on Sunday.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on the Columbus Blue Jackets +1.5.

There is little doubt that the Tampa Lightning are the more talented team. Throughout the course of a regular season a team as skilled as Tampa is going to score more goals and win more games. Put that team up against Comlumbus in a seven game series however, and you have a tough time arguing that Tampa is the better team. Despite being the significant betting favorite, the Lightning are 1-5 in their last six Conference Quarterfinals games. They have lost five of their last seven versus Columbus, and both wins during that span came in overtime.

Take CBJ. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Over 5.

The Capitals blew an early lead in Game 1, losing to the Islanders by a score of 4-2. The high score was no surprise, as these teams have gone over in four straight meetings. The over is 4-0 in the Capitals last 4 Conference Quarterfinals games, and they have gone over in six straight as a favorite. Braden Holtby struggled in Game 1, allowing four goals on just 27 shots. The bookmakers have listed a low total here, but I see both teams scoring a few goals.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Over 5.

The Lightning won a five overtime marathon in Game 1, so don't be surprised to see some tired legs in Game 2 versus Columbus. The bookmakers have set a low total for this game, even though these teams historically play high scoring games. Three of the four games went over when these teams met in last year's playoffs, and seven of the last 10 meetings have seen five or more goals. The over is 9-4-1 in the Blue Jackets last 14 Conference Quarterfinals games, and the over is 7-2-1 in their last 10 games playing on 1 days rest.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Colorado Avalanche.

The Avs shocked the hockey world in last year's playoffs, upsetting the #1 ranked Calgary Flames in the first round. They went on to lose in the second round to the vetern San Jose Sharks. This playoff experience will be invaluable for the likes of Nathan McKinnon and Cale Makar.  Colorado is younger, faster and far more talented than the Arizona Coyotes. "Obviously you can see their skill," Coyotes center Derek Stepan said. "They have it throughout their entire lineup, but they defend extremely hard, too. They've got shot blockers. We've certainly got our hands full. This is one of the best teams in the NHL, so we better be ready to play."  The Coyotes are 3-8 in their last 11 games following a win, while the Avs are 11-4 in their last 15 overall.

Take COL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Calgary Flames.

The Flames looked impressive in a play in series against a very tough Winnipeg team. Cam Talbot stood tall, stopping all 31 shots he faced in Game 4. Calgary was ousted in the first round as a #1 seed last year, and they have plenty to prove here against Dallas. The Stars come into this series as losers of eight of their last nine overall. It's hard to believe they can just flip a switch here in this series.

Take CAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Montreal Canadiens +1.5.

The Pittsburgh Penguins were a big favorite in this series, but they face elimination here in Game 4. Two of the first three games in this series were decided by one goal, and two of the three went under the total. Expect those trends to continue here given the magnitude of this game. "We've just done it by working hard," Canadiens coach Claude Julien said. "At the end of the day, we know where the experience is. The only way we can counter that is with our work ethic and our commitment and desire. We lack experience compared to the other team, but we're trying to make it up with our compete level." The underdog is 7-2 in the last nine meetings.

Take MTL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Under 5.5.

The Flames will try to eliminate a banged up Jets team tonight, and I am expecting goals to be hard to come by. Here is what I said prior to Game 3: "The Jets lost Game 1 of this series 4-1, but they battled back to even the series with a 3-2 win in Game 2 yesterday. It was an impressive effort considering that their two most dangerous offensive players were out with injury. Both Patrick Laine and Mark Scheiffle are questionable to play in Game 3. Winnipeg knows they will need to muddy it up, and play a close, tight checking game to have any chance. These two teams have gone under in five straight head to head meetings, and the under is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings."

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Calgary Flames.

The Flames will try to eliminate a banged up Jets team tonight, and I am expecting goals to be hard to come by. Here is what I said prior to Game 3: "The Jets lost Game 1 of this series 4-1, but they battled back to even the series with a 3-2 win in Game 2 yesterday. It was an impressive effort considering that their two most dangerous offensive players were out with injury. Both Patrick Laine and Mark Scheiffle are questionable to play in Game 3. Winnipeg knows they will need to muddy it up, and play a close, tight checking game to have any chance. These two teams have gone under in five straight head to head meetings, and the under is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings." It's going to be quite difficult for Winnipeg to overcome all the injuries.

Take CAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Under 5.5.

The first two games of this each went under the total. In fact if you take the combined score in both games it's still not enough to reach the total for tonight's Game 3. So far tight checking and stellar goaltending have been the story, and I expect that to continue tonight. The under is 4-1-2 in the last seven head to head meetings, and the Blue Jackets have gone under in five straight.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Under 5.5.

This series is tied at 1-1, and chances are whoever wins a pivotal Game 3 will go on to win the series. I am expecting goals to be hard to come by here this afternoon. The Canucks held a 4-1 lead with 2.5 minutes left in Game 2, but Kevin Fiala scored twice to push the total over. I expect Game 3 to look a lot more like Game 1, which the Wild won by a score of 3-0.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on EDM.

I had the Oilers in Game 2, and here is what I said prior to the game: "Chicago is still a talented team that can't be taken lightly. The Oilers didn't look ready in Game 1, falling behind 4-1 after the first period. They dominated the game after that point, but still came up short. Mike Smith was pulled after allowing five goals on 23 shots, but Mikko Koskinen came in and stopped 18-of-19 shots in relief. A change between the pipes could put the Oilers in a better position to even the series with a win in Game 2." Koskinen came in and outplayed his counterpart, and the Oilers are in great shape heading into a pivotal Game 3.

Take EDM.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Nashville.

I had the Predators in Game 2, and here is what I said prior to the game: "The Predators were trailing 3-0 before they even realized what happened in Game 1, but they battled back and ended up losing 4-3. The opening goal was quite the fluke, a shot that deflected off not 1, but two defensemen before sailing over the shoulder of the goaltender. You could chalk up the loss to bad puck luck, and I still believe the Preds are the better team. The Coyotes are 5-12 in their last 17 games as an underdog, and they are 2-7 in their last niune games following a win." Nashville has been by far the better team in this series, and I'll back them once again in Game 3.

Take NAS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Vancouver Canucks.

The Wild won Game 1 by a score of 3-0, but I like the Canucks chances of tying the series with a win in Game 2. The biggest advantage for Vancouver in this series is their goaltending, but in Game 1 Alex Stalock stopped all 28 shots he faced, and Jakub Markstrom let in a pair of bad goals. I count on Markstrom to be better, and his teammates making life difficult for Stalock. The majority of the time the team with better goaltending and better special teams wins the series, so I still give the edge to the Canucks.

Take VAN.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Under 5.5.

The Jets lost Game 1 of this series 4-1, but they battled back to even the series with a 3-2 win in Game 2 yesterday. It was an impressive effort considering that their two most dangerous offensive players were out with injury. Both Patrick Laine and Mark Scheiffle are questionable to play in Game 3. Winnipeg knows they will need to muddy it up, and play a close, tight checking game to have any chance. These two teams have gone under in five straight head to head meetings, and the under is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings. Another low score is expected tonight.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Nashville.

The Predators were trailing 3-0 before they even realized what happened in Game 1, but they battled back and ended up losing 4-3. The opening goal was quite the fluke, a shot that deflected off not 1, but two defensemen before sailing over the shoulder of the goaltender. You could chalk up the loss to bad puck luck, and I still believe the Preds are the better team. The Coyotes are 5-12 in their last 17 games as an underdog, and they are 2-7 in their last niune games following a win.

Take NAS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Oilers.

Chicago is still a talented team that can't be taken lightly. The Oilers didn't look ready in Game 1, falling behind 4-1 after the first period. They dominated the game after that point, but still came up short. Mike Smith was pulled after allowing five goals on 23 shots, but Mikko Koskinen came in and stopped 18-of-19 shots in relief. A change between the pipes could put the Oilers in a better position to even the series with a win in Game 2.

Take EDM.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Philly +1.5.

Boston is one of the favorites to win it all, but the first place team in the Eastern Conference has had a ton of trouble getting organized for the restart. David Pastranak who leads the league in scoring, missed a ton of training as he was in quarantine, and Brad Marchand is out with a lower body injury. The Bruins appear to be vulnerable, and the Flyers are a tough opponent. Philly has won outright in four of the last five versus Boston, and seven of the last 10 meetings have been decided by one goal (four of those in overtime).

Take PHI.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on WPG +1.5.

The Flames and the Jets are both serious Stanley Cup contenders, and the pundits have this series too close to call. If there is one thing separating these teams though, its the Jets #1 goaltender Connor Hellebuyck. He's second in the NHL in wins, and he's a candidate for the Vezina Trophy. These teams have a history of playing close hockey games. The Jets have won four of the last six meetings, and four of those six games were decided by just one goal. I expect another close game tonight, and in such games give me the team with the better goalie every time.

Take WPG.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The Montreal Canadiens have been rumored to be more motivated by a chance to get the #1 overall draft pick than they are to actually compete here in these playoffs. An early exit would give them an opportunity to pick French Canadian forward Alexis Lafreniere. While it's only a rumor, it has been supported by mainstream media personalities such as Elliotte Friedman. They don't match up well against Pittsburgh at the best of times, and really their only hope would be if Carey Price could carry the team on his back. It's been years since we've seen that kind of play from the Habs #1 goalie. I like Sid and the Pens here to sweep this qualifying series.

Take PIT.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on NYR +1.5.

The Canes were ahead of the Rangers in the standings when the league paused the season, and they will be the favorite here in the qualifying round. The Rangers had just one fewer win than Carolina, and New York swept the season series versus the Canes (4-0). Artemi Panarin had three goals and six assists against Carolina in those games. This series appears to be close, and I wouldn't be surprised to see some overtime games. All the trends favor New York, who are 41-14 in the last 55 meetings. The underdog has won outright in each of the last six meetings.

Take NYR.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Nashville Predators.

The Habs have played hard lately, but injuries have taken their toll. Despite their best efforts, they are due to miss the playoffs once again in 2020. The Predators still have a lot of work to do if they hope to reach the post-season, but they are on the right track. They are coming off back to back shutout wins over Dallas in a home and home series. The Habs have lost back to back games by a combined score of 8-1 in Florida versus the Panthers and the Lightning. Leading scorer Thomas Tatar didn't play in either of those games, and his status remains in question. It's all a little too little too late for Montreal.

Take NAS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Winnipeg Jets.

I had the Jets in a recent home game against Buffalo and they came through for me. Here is what I said prior to their win over the Sabres: "The Buffalo Sabres will play their fourth game on this current road trip, looking to end a three game losing streak. It won't come easy in Winnipeg, where the Jets have won three straight. The Sabres are 5-13 in the last 18 meetings in Winnipeg, and they have lost six of their last seven versus Western Conference teams. This is a must win game for the Jets who are involved in a crowded race for the final playoff spot in the West. This is also a revenge game after losing 2-1 at Buffalo in the last head to head meeting. " A home game against Arizona in a similar spot, and I expect a similar result.

Take WPG.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on the New York Rangers.

The Rangers are back in the hunt for a playoff spot after winning six of their last nine overall. They are two points back of the eighth place New York Islanders heading into Saturday's home game versus New Jersey. The Devils are coming off a home win over St. Louis on Friday, setting them up for a let down here in the second game of a back to back. They have lost four in a row at MSG, and the home team is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings. The Devils are 17-37 in their last 54 games following a win.

Take NYR.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Philly.

The Flyers have won eight straight, and they are hosting a Buffalo Sabres team that has lost five straight. The Sabres are a woeful 0-for-13 on the power play over their last six games. They face a Flyers team that boasts the best home record in the NHL (24-5-4). The home team is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings between these teams, and the Sabres have lost five in a row in the City of Brotherly Love.

Take PHI.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Nashville +1.5.

The Predators are coming off a 2-0 home win over Dallas, and they will be the underdog here in Dallas in the second leg of this home and home series. The Stars rank near the bottom of the league in goals scored, and they really struggle to score during 5-on-5 play. The Predators have seen seven of their last 11 games decided by one goal, so a close game here would be no surprise. Dallas has seen eight of their last 11 games decided by just one goal.

Take NASH.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Chicago Blackhawks.

Every year we see a struggling team pull themselves from the bottom of the trash heap and sneak into the playoffs, and sometimes those teams go all the way. Just ask the St. Louis Blues who did it last year, or the LA Kings who did it less than a decade ago. The Blackhawks are hoping that they can rally for their own Cinderella Story this season, and they have more than share of playoff experience. Chicago brings a four game winning streak into the Motor City, and Patrick Kane scored his 30th goal in his last game. "It's a good number," he said. "Throughout the season, you start thinking about those numbers, whether it's 20 or 30. Obviously, you want to get even more than that. I think we've got 15 games left here, so (let's) finish strong. I think if I finish strong and do my part, we might have a good chance to get in."

Take CHI.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Winnipeg Jets.

The Buffalo Sabres will play their fourth game on this current road trip, looking to end a three game losing streak. It won't come easy in Winnipeg, where the Jets have won three straight. The Sabres are 5-13 in the last 18 meetings in Winnipeg, and they have lost six of their last seven versus Western Conference teams. This is a must win game for the Jets who are involved in a crowded race for the final playoff spot in the West. This is also a revenge game after losing 2-1 at Buffalo in the last head to head meeting.

Take WPG.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Anaheim Ducks.

Neither the Devils or the Ducks will be playing in the playoffs this year, but the Ducks have reason to be upbeat heading into Sunday's home game against New Jersey. They are coming off back to back wins over Edmonton and Pittsburgh, while the Devils are coming off a loss in LA yesterday. "The new guys are really buying into the system we want to play," said Ducks defender Brendan Guhle, who scored his first career game-winning goal and third goal of the season Friday. "We want to get pucks deep and play a hard-nosed game, win battles and capitalize on our chances. Sonny had two goals the other night, Danton scored tonight, so it's huge for us." The Ducks are 7-3 in the last 10 meetings and they have won four straight home games against the Devils.

Take ANA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Ottawa Senators.

Both Detroit and Ottawa will miss the playoffs this season, but there is a lot more optimism in Ottawa than there is in the Motor City. The Red Wings are coming off a 7-1 home loss to Minnesota, and they have been out-scored by a combined 19-5 in their last four games. They have lost eight of nine, and they are 5-26-2 on the road. The Senators might miss the playoffs, but they have been quite competitive at home (16-13-6). They are coming off a 5-2 home win over Vancouver, and Bobby Ryan scored a hat trick in his first game back. Ryan and the Sens should be all fired up again tonight.

Take OTT.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the San Jose Sharks.

The New Jersey Devils come into San Jose as winners of three straight, including a 2-1 home victory over the Sharks. They beat the league worst Detroit Red Wings 4-1 on Tuesday, and Corey Schneider picked up his first win of the season. Schneider is now 1-6-1 with a 4.61 GAA in eight starts, and any confidence gained would be lost if he lets in an early goal in his next start. This sets up for a let down spot for the Devils as they travel across the country for a very meaningless game against the Sharks. For San Jose they are looking to snap a four game losing skid, and team leader Logan Couture will be playing in his second game back since recovering from an ankle injury. The Devils are just 4-10 in their last 14 versus the Sharks, and the home team has won four straight in the series.

Take SJS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Philly Flyers.

After yesterday's trade deadline, certain teams will simply be playing out the remainder of the season with nothing to gain by winning games. One of those teams is the San Jose Sharks. Their head coach made that crystal clear with his recent comments: "With the personnel that we have in there right now, we have to almost play a perfect or a near-to-perfect game when you're only scoring one or two a night," Sharks interim head coach Bob Boughner said. "It's not for a lack of effort, it's not for a lack of compete, it's not for a lack of chances." The Flyers are 21-5-4 at home, and they are gunning for a fourth straight win.

Take PHI.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Edmonton Oilers.

The Kings have lost two of three since trading their leading scorer to the Vancouver Canucks. Tonight they will play their second game of a back to back at home against the Edmonton Oilers. Edmonton has gone 3-2-1 without their leading scorer Connor McDavid, but he is expected to return to the lineup soon. The Oilers are just three points back of division leaders Las Vegas, but they are only three points up on ninth place Nashville. They find themselves (like most teams in the Western Conference) on the playoff bubble. With or without McDavid, this is a game that Edmonton desperately needs to win, and they couldn't ask for a more suitable opponent.

Take EDM.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Winnipeg Jets.

I had the Jets in their last game, a home win over Chicago. Here is what I said prior to the opening face off: "The Jets are 8-3 in their last 11 games as a home favorite, while the Blackhawks are 1-5 in their last six games as an underdog. With Chicago playing their fifth straight road game, and Winnipeg on the playoff bubble, we should expect the Jets to want this game more than the visitors." The Kings come to town without their leading scorer Tyler Toffoli, who has just been traded to Vancouver. This is LA waving the white flag, and the remainder of this season will be focused on rebuilding for the future (tanking).

Take WPG.

GL,

Jesse Schule

10*

This is an 8* play on the Winnipeg Jets.

After winning four of their last six games, the Winnipeg Jets are still one point back of the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference. They host the San Jose Sharks tonight, and San Jose is no longer in the hunt for the playoffs. Injuries have taken their toll on San Jose, with Brent Burns playing hurt, while Thomas Hertl and Logan Couture are done for the season. The Sharks are 4-10 in their last 14 road games, and they are 6-15 in their last 21 games as an underdog. The Jets are 8-2 in their last 10 games as a home favorite.

Take WPG.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Minnesota Wild.

The Wild are just a point back of the eighth and final playoff spot in the West, and they come into tonight's home game against the Rangers as winners of four of their last five overall. Minnesota is one of the best home teams in the NHL, and a win here against the Rangers would have them tied for the most home wins in the Western Conference. The Rangers have struggled against the Wild, losing four of the last five meetings. They have also struggled against Western Conference teams, losing 23 of their last 34. The Wild are 13-6 in their last 19 games as a home favorite.

Take MIN.

GL,

Jesse Schule

8*

This is an 8* play on the Winnipeg Jets.

The Jets are right back in the playoff hunt after winning three of their last four. Patrick Laine scored a hat trick in a 5-2 win over the Senators yesterday, and that's good news for Winnipeg as they get set to host the Hawks. Chicago is also in the hunt for the playoffs, trailing Winnipeg by just three points with a couple of games in hand. The Blackhawks are 2-6 in the last eight meetings, and they are 1-4 in the last five meetings in Winnipeg.

Take WPG.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Winnipeg Jets.

Winnipeg is currently on the outside looking in, sitting a point back of Calgary for the final playoff spot in the West. A home game against the struggling Ottawa Senators is a must win game for the Jets. The Sens have just two wins in their last 16 overall, while the Jets have won two of three heading into today's game. The Jets are 6-1 in their last seven games as a home favorite. The Senators are 16-50 in their last 66 road games.

Take WPG.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Edmonton Oilers.

The Oilers suffered a let down in their first game following a big road win at Calgary in the Battle of Alberta. They should get back on track here at home versus San Jose, a team that is no longer in the hunt for the playoffs. The Sharks won two nights ago in Calgary, but a sweep here in Alberta isn't going to be easy. San Jose is banged up, losing several star players to injuries. The Sharks have lost five of their last six road games, and they are 7-19 in their last 26 games as a road underdog. Edmonton has won four of five at home, and seven of their last 10 overall.

Take EDM.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Calgary Flames.

Coming off an embarrassing home loss to bitter rivals Edmonton, the Flames are badly in need of a get right game. They couldn't have asked for a better opponent, with their next game coming against the San Jose Sharks. The Sharks are indeed an endangered species, sitting 11 points out of the final playoff spot in the West. They could be without their three best players, as Brent Burns is battling a shoulder injury, and Logan Couture and Thomas Hertl are both sidelined with serious injuries. The home team is 9-4 in the last 13 meetings, and the Sharks are 0-5 in their last five road games.

Take CAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

  
This is a 5* play on the Edmonton Oilers.

I had the Oilers on Saturday, and they won a barn burner on the road in Calgary. That win should serve a springboard moving forward. Here is what I said before Saturday's game: "The Battle of Alberta resumes tonight in Calgary, and the Edmonton Oilers have a score to settle. The Oilers lost 4-3 at home to Calgary last week, and both previous meetings in 2020 have been decided by one goal. Going back much further, five of the last 10 head to head meetings have been one goal games. I'll take Edmonton to at least keep in close in this revenge game."

Take EDM.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the WPG Jets.

I had the Jets as a home dog against St. Louis on Saturday, and here is what I said before the game: "The Jets have lost seven of their last eight overall, but each of their last two losses have come by just one goal. They out-shot the Boston Bruins 37-23 on Friday, but a bad bounce cost them the game. It's only a matter of time before the Jets snap out of this streak, and they look good as a home dog against the St. Louis Blues tonight. The Blues have lost four of their last five, and their one win during that span came by just one goal. Four of the last five head to head meetings have been decided by one goal."

Take WPG.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Montreal Canadiens.

I had Montreal on Saturday, and they won 4-0 at home versus Florida. Here is what I said before the game: "The Habs are still a long way's back of the final playoff spot in the East, but after what the Blues did last year nobody is going to count them out. They come into Saturday's home game against Florida as winners of five of their last seven, and veteran goalie Carey Price has been sharp during that span. Price has allowed one goal or less in four of his last six starts. Montreal is getting healthier, and the addition of Ilya Kovalchuk has paid dividends. The veteran winger has four goals in his last four games played."

Take MTL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Tampa Lightning.

Tampa Bay was the best team in the NHL during the regular season last year, but they got off to a slow start this season. They are really on a roll now though, coming into tonight's game against Vegas as winners of 15 of their last 18. The Knights are at the end of a long road trip, and they have won three of six so far. The Golden Knights are 7-21 in their last 28 games as a road underdog, and they have lost five of their last seven versus Eastern Conference teams. The Lightning are 74-33 in their last 107 games as a favorite.

Take TB.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Montreal Canadiens.

I had Montreal on Saturday, and they won 4-0 at home versus Florida. Here is what I said before the game: "The Habs are still a long way's back of the final playoff spot in the East, but after what the Blues did last year nobody is going to count them out. They come into Saturday's home game against Florida as winners of five of their last seven, and veteran goalie Carey Price has been sharp during that span. Price has allowed one goal or less in four of his last six starts. Montreal is getting healthier, and the addition of Ilya Kovalchuk has paid dividends. The veteran winger has four goals in his last four games played."

Take MTL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Edmonton Oilers.

The Battle of Alberta resumes tonight in Calgary, and the Edmonton Oilers have a score to settle. The Oilers lost 4-3 at home to Calgary last week, and both previous meetings in 2020 have been decided by one goal. Going back much further, five of the last 10 head to head meetings have been one goal games. I'll take Edmonton to at least keep in close in this revenge game.

Take EDM.

GL,

Jesse Schule

5*

This is a 5* play on the WPG Jets +1.5.

The Jets have lost seven of their last eight overall, but each of their last two losses have come by just one goal. They out-shot the Boston Bruins 37-23 on Friday, but a bad bounce cost them the game. It's only a matter of time before the Jets snap out of this streak, and they look good as a home dog against the St. Louis Blues tonight. The Blues have lost four of their last five, and their one win during that span came by just one goal. Four of the last five head to head meetings have been decided by one goal.

Take WPG.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Dallas Stars.

The Western Conference is ultra competitive this season, and only two points seperate the 3rd place Dallas Stars from the eighth place Arizona Coyotes. That means that every game is so important, and teams like Dallas can't afford to slip up on the road against the bottom feeders like New Jersey. The Devils have lost four of their last five, and they have allowed 5+ goals in all of those losses. Only the Detroit Red Wings have allowed more goals this season than New Jersey.

Take DAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Montreal Canadiens.

The Habs are still a long way's back of the final playoff spot in the East, but after what the Blues did last year nobody is going to count them out. They come into Saturday's home game against Florida as winners of five of their last seven, and veteran goalie Carey Price has been sharp during that span. Price has allowed one goal or less in four of his last six starts. Montreal is getting healthier, and the addition of Ilya Kovalchuk has paid dividends. The veteran winger has four goals in his last four games played.

Take MTL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Minnesota Wild.

The Detroit Red Wings have lost five straight, and four of those five losses came by at least two goals. In fact six of their last seven losses were by more than one goal. They have lost three of their last four visits to Minnesota, and all three losses were by more than one goal. Minnesota is still battling for a playoff spot, and can't afford to overlook an inferior opponent. Detroit's veteran goaltender Jimmy Howard is now 0-13-2 in his last 15 starts. The Red Wings are 0-6 in their last six in the fourth game of a 4-in-6 situation.

Take MIN.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Philadelphia Flyers.

Philly has been solid at home this season, winning nine of 12 and boasting a record of 15-4-4 overall at the Wells Fargo Center. The Kings have just seven wins in 27 road games so far. This is a tough road trip for the Kings, playing their fifth straight road game on the other side of the country. Philly has a huge edge in special teams play, and this is just not a good spot for the struggling Kings.

Take PHI.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Winnipeg Jets.

The Vancouver Canucks have been on a roll, and they are at the end of a five game road trip tonight in Winnipeg. They haven't had a lot of success in Winnipeg in recent years, losing their last eight visits. In fact the Jets have owned Vancouver, winning 13 of the last 14 meetings. This looks like a let down spot for a Vancouver team that is starting to like their own smell, and a get right game for a Jets team badly in need of a win.

Take WPG.

GL,

Jesse Schule

8*

This is a 10* play on the Vegas Golden Knights.

The Penguins have done just fine without the best player in the world, coming into Vegas tied for second place in the Metropolitan Division. With Crosby nearing a return, the Pens have been dealt a cruel blow. Leading scorer Jake Guentzel will be done for the season after suffering a shoulder injury at the end of December. The Penguins have since lost two of three games. Vegas is looking for a fifth consecutive home victory, and they are 14-7-3 overall at home this season. The Penguins have never won in Vegas, and the home team has won four of the five previous meetings since the Knights joined the NHL.

Take VGK.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Ottawa Senators.

The Devils come into Ottawa as losers of 10 of their last 13 overall, and they have gone from bad to worse since trading away their best player (Taylor Hall). The Senators aren't exactly lighting it up either, although they have won five of their last 10 overall. The Sens are 4-1 in their last five home games. The home team has won five of the last six head to head meetings, and the Devils are 18-45 in their last 63 road games. The Sens have won four straight as a home favorite.

Take OTT.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Nashville Predators.

The Predators haven't quite been as dominant at home this season as they have been in years past, but they come into tonight's game against Arizona as winners of 3-of-4, all on the road. They are still 9-6-3 at home, and the home team has been the play in previous meetings between these two teams. The home team is 38-16 in the last 54 meetings, and the Coyotes are 8-21-1 in the last 30 meetings in Nashville. This Preds team appears to have turned the corner.

Take NAS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

8*

This is an 8* play on the Nashville Predators.

The San Jose Sharks are coming off four straight losses, and they allowed 5+ goals in three of those four games. The Predators have a history of dominating the Sharks in Nashville, and Pekka Rinne is 7-0 with a 1.42 GAA in his last seven home starts versus San Jose. Goaltending has been a big problem for the Sharks. Martin Jones has allowed 13 goals on 76 shots in three straight losses, while backup netminder Aaron Dell has lost three straight starts, allowing nine goals in those games.

Take NAS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Edmonton Oilers.

The Oilers won seven of their first eight home games, but they have since lost their last three home games. Most recently they lost 5-2 to the Ottawa Senators, and I would expect them to respond with a far better effort tonight against the LA Kings. The Kings are just 2-10-1 on the road this season. The Oilers are 4-0 in their last four home games against LA, and the home team is 20-6 in the last 26 meetings.

Take EDM.

GL,

Jesse Schule

8*

This is an 8* play on [email protected] to go Under the total.

The Canadiens are a desperate hockey club, coming into tonight's home game against the Islanders looking to snap an eight game losing streak. It won't be easy, only three teams have allowed fewer goals per game than the Isles. Montreal ranks among the worst teams in the NHL in goals against, but one would assume that Carey Price is still capable of stealing a game for the Habs. His last game against the Islanders just happens to be a 28 save shutout. The under is 23-5-1 in the Islanders last 29 in the third game of a 3-in-4 days situation, and they have gone under in five of their last six when playing on back to back nights.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Edmonton Oilers.

The Oilers return home from a successful three game road trip to host the Vancouver Canucks in the first game of a home and home set. Both these teams missed the playoffs last year, but each team started this season with a bang. The Oilers are still in first place in the Pacific Division, but the Canucks have regressed. Vancouver comes into tonight's game with just two wins in their last seven games. The Oilers are coming off a loss to the Avs on the final game of their road trip, but they had won three of the first four games in the five game swing. Edmonton is 7-2-2 at home this season, and they have won five of their last six home games versus Vancouver.

Take EDM.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the San Jose Sharks.

The Sharks had won nine of their last 10 games heading into a home tilt versus the Jets their last time out, and they came out flat losing by a score of 9-1. They will host LA this afternoon, and they won at LA in over time just the other day. The Kings have shown some life of late, going 5-2-1 in their last eight overall. They are still just 2-8-1 on the road this season though. The Sharks have won six of the last eight head to head meetings, and they are 6-2 in their last eight home games.

Take SJS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Montreal Canadiens.

The Habs host the Devils in the only NHL game on Thanksgiving, and this is a must win for Montreal. While the Devils are three points out of last place in the Eastern Conference, the Habs still have expectations of making the playoffs. This could be the turning point though, and if they don't end this five game losing streak tonight, they might be in trouble. They were embarrassed on home ice in an 8-1 loss to Boston in their last game, and good teams almost always come back from such losses with a heroic effort in their next game. That's what we expect from Montreal tonight.

Take MTL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on [email protected] to go Under the total.

These two teams have a history of playing low scoring games, in fact they haven't gone over the total (6) in any of the last 10 meetings. The under is 5-0-1 in the Sharks last six games as an underdog. San Jose also has one of the best penalty kills in hockey, with a 90% kill rate. Neither of these teams rank well when it comes to scoring, each averaging well short of three goals per game. The under is 3-1-1 in Kings last five home games, and the under is 10-1-6 in the last 17 meetings.

Take Under.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on [email protected] to go Over 5.5.

The Stars have won 12 of their last 14 overall, and they have been putting plenty of pucks in the net during that span. They've scored three or more goals in five straight. The Chicago Blackhawks are coming off back to back losses, but they had won four straight before that. They have gone over (5.5) in six of their last seven overall. These two teams have gone over in four of the five head to head meetings, and with both teams clicking offensively we should see another high scoring game tonight.

Take Over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Nashville Predators.

The Predators have lost five straight, but they showed signs of getting back on track in a competitive 2-1 loss to Winnipeg on Tuesday. They are in a good spot tonight, hosting a Vancouver Canucks team with just one win in their last eight overall. Pekka Rinne got pulled after allowing four goals on 14 shots in a loss to Chicago in his last start, but he's 6-1-2 with a 2.54 GAA at home this season. The Canucks starter Jakob Markstrom is 0-4-2 with a 3.16 GAA in the month of November. One of these teams will get back on track, and my money is on the home team.

Take NAS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Montreal Canadiens.

I bet on Montreal this weekend, and here is what I said prior to their game against New Jersey: "The Habs sit second in the Atlantic Division with a record of 11-5-3, and they have won three straight heading into tonight's home game against New Jersey. Carey Price is looking like an early candidate for the Vezina, and he's won four of his last five starts. Price is 10-4-2 with a 2.61 GAA so far this season." As it turns out it was Keith Kinkaid who started in that game, and the Habs lost in overtime by a score of 4-3. They host Ottawa tonight, and they are 9-2 in their last 11 versus the Sens, and they are 6-0 in their last six home games versus Ottawa.

Take MTL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

Copyright © 1995-2019 C

This is an 8* play on the Winnipeg Jets.

The Predators come into tonight's home game against Winnipeg as losers of four straight and six of their last seven overall. They lost 7-2 to Chicago on Saturday, and Pekka Rinne was pulled after allowing four goals on 14 shots. The Jets come into the Music City with a record of 6-1-1 in their last eight overall, and they will be a big underdog in tonight's game. The Jets have won four of the last five meetings, and the underdog has won six of the last seven meetings. Winnipeg has seen six of it's last eight overall decided by just one goal.

Take WPG.

GL,

Jesse Schule