Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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10-25-19 | Sharks v. Maple Leafs -165 | Top | 1-4 | Win | 100 | 11 h 23 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on TORONTO The Leafs are struggling a bit as they've lost two straight games. The first loss took place here at home as they got beat 4-3 by Columbus in overtime on a penalty shot. The following night they had to go to Boston and lost 4-2, which given the circumstance isn't all that worrisome. Having been off for two days, the team should rebound tonight. They face a San Jose team that now finds itself in the second game of a back to back and playing its third road game in four nights, all of which have been out East. The Sharks did win last night in Montreal 4-2. But that was after losing four of their first five road games. Toronto is scoring a lot more than San Jose is right now. There's a 12-goal difference between the teams as the Maple Leafs still remain one of the highest scoring teams in the league. Let's now hope the goaltending starts to improve. The Sharks lost the only other time they've been in a back to back this season, 3-1 to Anaheim back on October 5th. Take the well-rested team that's hungry for a win. Play on TORONTO AAA |
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10-24-19 | Coyotes v. Islanders -117 | Top | 2-4 | Win | 100 | 11 h 53 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on the ISLANDERS Both the Coyotes (5-2-1) and Islanders (5-3) come into tonight on four-game win streaks. Arizona has been getting the job done by scoring plenty of goals (17) while the Islanders haven't been giving many up (7). So something will have to give tonight at the Nassau Coliseum. This being a home game for the Isles is an advantage. So is the schedule, which has given them last four days off. The 'Yotes just played Tuesday here in New York, against the Rangers. They won obviously, but needed overtime to do so. They're likely to struggle to score tonight. The Islanders not giving up many goals is nothing new. They gave up the fewest goals in the league in last year's regular season. Also, the first four games saw Arizona tally just seven goals. So the offensive decline seems all but inevitable this evening. Then you have the fact the Islanders have really had the 'Yotes number the last couple seasons. They swept the pair of matchups last year and are 10-3-2 the L15 times playing host. The Isles are also 16-5 their last 21 non-conference games. Play on NEW YORK AAA |
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10-22-19 | Kings v. Jets -136 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -136 | 12 h 19 m | Show |
We rode Winnipeg to a 1-0 victory over Edmonton on Sunday. That game did happen to go to a shootout, but keep in mind that they beat a team that entered with a record of 7-1. Here the Jets are going to be facing a much weaker foe in the Kings. The Kings are in last place in the Pacific, the same place where they finished last year. LA is off a rare win, 4-1 against Calgary, which snapped a three-game losing streak. But the win came at home. The Kings have won just once on the road so far. Winnipeg also snapped a three-game losing streak with that win over Edmonton, but remember what we said in our writeup. The previous three losses all came at home and that was something we could not see continuing. The Kings had been shutout in two straight games before beating the Flames. Fading them off a win seems like a smart move, especially with this being the second of two straight road games. Play on WINNIPEG |
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10-20-19 | Oilers v. Jets -132 | Top | 0-1 | Win | 100 | 9 h 5 m | Show |
This is a 10* on WINNIPEG Winnipeg has lost three in a row, all at home. They won’t lose four, right? Edmonton is 7-1, but has had to come back multiple times and is being outshot on the year. They have a shooting percentage of nearly 15%, which will not continue. The Jets and Oilers have played six times the last two years. Winnipeg has won five of those games. They are also 5-1 the last two seasons when off three consecutive losses. We just can’t see the Jets losing four in a row at home. We remain skeptical of Edmonton. With two days off to prepare for this one, look for the home team to grab the two points. Play on WINNIPEG AAA |
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10-18-19 | Rangers v. Capitals -200 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 11 h 33 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on WASHINGTON Great spot to play the Capitals tonight, in our opinion. They're rested while the Rangers are in the second night of a back to back. The Rangers lost 5-2 in New Jersey last night. That's a Devils team that had been winless in its first six games. Washington has been one of the Rangers least favorite opponents the last few years. They lost all four times to them in 2018-19 and are 1-4-5 SU the L10 meetings. The Capitals come in fresh here after beating Toronto 4-3 Wednesday night. Scoring goals hasn't been an issue the last four games for Washington as they've found the back of the net 16 times. They have had their issues at the other end, but shouldn't here. The Rangers have only three goals in their last two games and went 0 for 6 on the power play last night. The schedule has been odd for the Rangers so far as they've played only four games. This kind of rest is good later in the season, but the amount of inaction this early leaves them rusty and they're not about to fix their issues in a game with no rest. Washington was already the superior team and seemingly has every edge that they'd need to get the two points here. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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10-16-19 | Hurricanes v. Sharks -124 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 15 h 42 m | Show |
This is a 10* on SAN JOSE Carolina is off to a red-hot 6-1 start, their only loss coming at home to Columbus on Saturday. But they're underdogs on the money line Wednesday, playing in the second night of a back to back. The Hurricanes are facing a San Jose team that's off two straight wins following an 0-4 start. The Sharks struggled to find the back of the net in those four losses, two of which were against Vegas. But in one game, a 5-4 win over Chicago, they matched their number of goals scored from the previous four. Then came a 3-1 win over the Flames Sunday here at home. Carolina won 2-0 against Los Angeles Tuesday night. But they were outshot 31-23. This is the best start in franchise history. However, do note that the Canes only loss did come in the second night of a back to back. The turnaround in San Jose coincides with the return of Patrick Marleau to the lineup. The Sharks haven't lost since their all-time leader in minutes played, goals and assists made his season debut. Carolina is due a "hiccup," plain and simple. Play on SAN JOSE AAA |
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10-15-19 | Red Wings v. Canucks -143 | Top | 1-5 | Win | 100 | 14 h 1 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on VANCOUVER The Canucks started the season with two straight losses on the road, both in the province over (Alberta) as they went down at the hands of Edmonton and Calgary. They've since ripped off two straight convincing wins at home. Fortunate for them then that tonight's game is being played in Vancouver. They'll host Detroit, a team we're not very high on this year. The Red Wings last game was a 5-2 home loss to Toronto. In the last couple years, they have not performed well after giving up at least four goals in their last game. They are 19-44 L63 in that role. Vancouver scored 8 goals in its home opener (against the Kings) and then beat Philly 3-2 here on Saturday night. In goal, they're being forced to turn to backup Thatcher Demko as #1 Jacob Markstrom is out dealing with a family matter. But that's okay by us as the Red Wings didn't get a single goal from their top three lines Saturday. Canucks are the better team here. Play on VANCOUVER AAA |
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10-14-19 | Avalanche v. Capitals -128 | Top | 6-3 | Loss | -128 | 7 h 31 m | Show |
This is a 10* on WASHINGTON The Capitals host the unbeaten Avalanche late Monday afternoon in D.C. The catch here is while the Avs may be unbeaten, all four of their wins have come at home. Tonight is the first time they've got to hit the road and last year they were just 17-24 in road games. Washington is a surprising 0-2 at home so far, but did just win in Dallas 4-2 on Saturday. They'd lost three in a row prior to that win, which was a revenge spot. Not only was it the Caps first wins in regulation at Dallas since 1995, they'd just lost to the Stars at home last Tuesday. In all three of the Capitals losses this year, they had the lead entering the 3rd period. Two of those three losses came in overtime. So sometimes records can be misleading and they are here as Washington is the betting favorite for a reason and that reason is simple. They are a better team than the unbeaten Avalanche. Colorado's roster lacks depth and winning on the road is a lot harder than winning at home. Saturday's win over Arizona needed overtime. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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10-13-19 | Flames +120 v. Sharks | Top | 1-3 | Loss | -100 | 13 h 48 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on CALGARY We played against the Flames last night. It was our Game of the Week. The Flames were in Vegas, a tough place to play, and the Golden Knights were hungry off back to back losses. The final score ended up being 6-2. Calgary has not won or lost consecutive times in the first two weeks of the season. So we expect them to battle back despite tonight being the second game of a back to back and third road game in four night. San Jose had not won a game this year before beating Chicago 5-4 Thursday. In the way, they equaled their number of goals scored from the first four games combined. With the situation being what it is, Cam Talbot will be in goal for the first time for the Flames. Any questions about him should be offset by the fact Sharks goalie Martin Jones has really struggled so far. He has an .854 save percentage and 4.56 goals against average in three games. San Jose has lost all three. The Flames are a great "grab" at plus money. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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10-12-19 | Flames v. Golden Knights -137 | Top | 2-6 | Win | 100 | 14 h 1 m | Show |
This is a 10* on VEGAS Vegas started its season by sweeping a home and home against rival San Jose. They've since lost two straight. Even though it was at home, the loss to Boston can't be considered all that bad. The Bruins have looked really good so far. But a 4-1 loss at Arizona has to be considered the Golden Knights first "bad" performance of the young campaign. They look to rebound tonight, back at home, against a Calgary team that won the Pacific Division last year. The Flames, like the Knights, have won two and lost two. One of the Flames two losses was in overtime. That was as a -250 favorite at home vs. the Kings. They came back to beat Dallas 3-2 on the road Thursday, though it went to a shootout. Vegas has been far too careless with the puck their last two games. Fortunately that can be corrected. We lean on home ice advantage tonight. Calgary has never won in Vegas, losing all four prior trips. The home team was also 4-0 in the four overall meetings last season. Play on VEGAS AAA |
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10-10-19 | Golden Knights -135 v. Coyotes | Top | 1-4 | Loss | -135 | 13 h 48 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on VEGAS Before the season, there was a lot of chatter about how good Vegas might be and so far that chatter seems pretty well justified. The Golden Knights opened their season by sweeping a home and home with San Jose. But then they lost on home ice to Boston 4-3 on Tuesday night. That's a good Bruins team though. There won't be too many visitors that strong showing up at T-Mobile Arena this season. Let us not forget that Vegas has gone 54-23-7 in regular season home games during their short existence. But even though tonight's game is on the road, Arizona is not a team they ought to be too concerned about. The Coyotes are 0-2 and have scored only one goal on the season. Improved last season, the 'Yotes may very well take a "step back" this year. Vegas is averaging four goals/game, so it's likely they'll simply have too much offense for the home team to keep up here. Going back to last year, Arizona has lost seven of eight as an underdog. Play on VEGAS AAA |
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10-09-19 | Devils v. Flyers -122 | Top | 0-4 | Win | 100 | 10 h 3 m | Show |
This is a 10* on PHILADELPHIA We haven't seen too much from either the Devils or Flyers on this young season, but we think we've seen enough to take the latter at home tonight. Philadelphia has played just one game so far and it was a 4-3 win over Chicago over in Prague. New Jersey has lost twice, including blowing a 4-0 lead to Winnipeg in the first game. That was followed up by a 7-2 loss to a Buffalo team that last season finished with only 76 points. Of course, the Devils finished with only 72 points and were the last place team in the Metropolitan. It was quite curious (to us) to see how much 'preseason hype' NJ is getting coming off that kind of season. They were projected (by oddsmakers) for 90.5 points, which would be right at the cusp of playoff contention. We just don't see it as the goaltending here remains pretty terrible and Philly got off 38 shots in the win over Chicago. This is the only home that the Flyers get to play between now and October 19th. So they should come out focused and ready to play. New Jersey also has had plenty of rest coming into this game, but they are 0-4 the last four times they've played with three or more days rest. Play on PHILADELPHIA AAA |
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10-08-19 | Sharks v. Predators -159 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 12 h 19 m | Show |
analysis soon |
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10-08-19 | Oilers v. Islanders -155 | Top | 5-2 | Loss | -155 | 11 h 19 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on the ISLANDERS We used Edmonton as our Game of the Week on Saturday. While the Oilers won, they made beating the Kings a lot harder than it should have been. After scoring first, they ended up trailing most of the game. It wasn't until a power play goal with just 6:32 remaining that they took the lead for good and it was a rather ugly effort to boot where they gave up five goals. Tonight they face a team that won't be nearly that generous at the opposite end. The Islanders were the league leaders in fewest goals allowed last year and have given up just three in their first two games of this season. The last one was a 4-1 win over Winnipeg. This will be New York's third straight home game while it's Edmonton's first time playing on the road. Home team won both times these teams met last year. No matter who the Islanders elect to go with in goal, they'll have an edge there in tonight's game. Edmonton is just 18-46 its last 64 games as an underdog. New York has won 16 of its last 21 non-conference games and is 23-8 its last 31 as favorite of -151 to -200. Play on NEW YORK AAA |
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10-07-19 | Blues v. Maple Leafs -125 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -125 | 22 h 23 m | Show |
This is a 10* on TORONTO St. Louis, the defending Stanley Cup Champions, started the season with a disappointing overtime loss to Washington on Opening Night. But they bounced back three days later to defeat Dallas by the same score of 3-2. They are now set to play on the road for the first time against a Toronto team that won its first two games before losing here at home to Montreal Saturday, 6-5. That was a rough loss for the Maple Leafs considering they led 4-1 going into the third period. It wound up going into a shootout and that's when they eventually fell. The Blues rallied with two third period goals to beat Dallas, so they easily could be 0-2 while the Leafs could easily be 3-0 right now. The Montreal game was the second in back to back nights, so maybe that explains Toronto's failure down the stretch. Whatever the reason was, look for them to come out motivated on Monday. This is a bit of a revenge game as they've lost all four games with St. Louis the last two years and 14 of the last 19 home games against them. The Leafs are doing an excellent job getting the puck on the net, averaging 36 shots and 4.7 goals per game. They win here. Play on TORONTO AAA |
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10-05-19 | Kings v. Oilers -150 | Top | 5-6 | Win | 100 | 14 h 32 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on EDMONTON It's the season opener for Los Angeles while Edmonton is playing its second game after beating Vancouver 3-2 on Opening Night. We don't think that's any kind of advantage here for the Kings, and possibly it may prove to be a disadvantage. For starters, this is not a good team. LA finished last in the Pacific a season ago with only 71 points. The only team in the league that finished with fewer points was Ottawa (64). The Oilers have at least gotten a chance to get out on the ice and skate. They looked pretty good in downing the Canucks as they scored three goals on just 22 shots. The most encouraging sign of all was Connor McDavid scoring the game winner. The Kings do not project to be a whole lot better for the 2019-20 season and are an easy fade here. Play on EDMONTON AAA |
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10-03-19 | Panthers v. Lightning -173 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 11 h 9 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on TAMPA BAY Tampa Bay turned in arguably the most dominant regular season ever last year, outscoring opponents by 103 goals and finishing with 125 points. But none of that mattered come playoff time when they were shockingly ousted in the 1st round by Columbus. It's not just that they lost the series either. They got swept! So we expect the Lightning to strike fast here in 2019-2020 and that means two points tonight at the expense of their Floridian rivals, the Panthers. Florida did not make the playoffs last year and should be considered a fringe contender to do so this year. As you may have guessed, the Lightning have dominated this in-state "rivalry." They won all four games last year and have taken seven of the eight meetings over the past two seasons, including all of them at home. The Panthers weren't exactly a good road team either last year as their record was 16-26 away from home. This is a good early season price to take on the Lightning as lines are still soft. Our guess is that a month from now, they'd be -200 or so on the money line against the Panthers. The Lightning were 32-7-2 in regular season home games last year. They won't be losing tonight. Play on TAMPA BAY AAA |
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10-02-19 | Capitals v. Blues -140 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -140 | 30 h 49 m | Show |
This is an 8* Play on ST. LOUIS We like the Blues on Opening Night to win a battle of the last two Stanley Cup Champions. In case you forgot, it was St. Louis hoisting the Cup last June for the first time in franchise history, thus completing one of the most remarkable in-season turnarounds that we have ever seen - in any sport. Right after the New Year, the Blues had the fewest points in the league. They wound up winning it all. A big reason for that stunning turn of events was the play of rookie netminder Jordan Binnington. Now it's a full season of Binnington between the pipes in St. Louis. So we expect there to be little to no drop off for this team this year. For Washington, it very much feels like the 2019-20 season is going to be their last run at a Cup. Alex Ovechkin is under contract for the next two seasons, but both Nicklas Backstrom and goalie Braden Holtby are set to become free agents next summer. In this same position last year, the Capitals delivered a 7-0 win against the Bruins as it was them playing at home watching a banner getting raise. The proverbial skate is on the other foot this time. The Caps have failed to win the last six times they've been ML underdogs. St. Louis won 20 of its last 29 home games to end last season. They start this year with two points. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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06-12-19 | Blues v. Bruins -145 | Top | 4-1 | Loss | -145 | 45 h 59 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on BOSTON St. Louis blew it, plain and simple. They had Boston at home, with a chance to win the Stanley Cup, and instead lost 5-1. Now the Bruins get the winner-take-all Game #7 in their place and we've got them coming away victorious. In some ways, it's a miracle the Blues even got to this point. They had the fewest number of points in the entire league back on January 2nd. But the city of St. Louis will have to wait at least another year to pass around Lord Stanley's Cup for the very first time. The Bruins have outscored the Blues in the series 21-14. They really took over in the third period of Game #6 by scoring four goals. Tuukka Rask has outplayed Jordan Binnington in this series, at least in our opinion. Rask's .938 save percentage in the playoffs is something worth leaning on. While the road team has won four of the previous five games in the series, we can't see the Blues winning for a third straight time in Boston. Not with everything on the line this time. Play on BOSTON AAA |
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06-03-19 | Bruins v. Blues -110 | Top | 2-4 | Win | 100 | 12 h 4 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on ST. LOUIS We look for the Blues to bounce back after their dreadful showing in Game #3. Things quickly got out of hand Saturday night with Boston taking a 3-0 lead in the 1st period. They only escalated from there. Seven Bruins scored. They were 4 for 4 on the power play ... on only four shot attempts. For the first time in his career, rookie Jordan Binnington was chased from the game (he gave up the first five goals). It was basically a worst case scenario for a team hosting its first Stanley Cup Finals game since 1970. We just can't see St. Louis playing any worse and given the resiliency we've seen from them throughout the playoffs, expect them to win in Game #4. Remember the Blues had the fewest points in the league on January 2nd. Now they are three wins away from winning the Stanley Cup. Off a loss this postseason, the Blues are 5-1 with the one loss coming in overtime. No way they lose both games at home, right? Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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06-01-19 | Bruins v. Blues -111 | Top | 7-2 | Loss | -111 | 13 h 40 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on ST. LOUIS The Blues should feel happy that the escaped Boston with a two-game split. Honestly, they probably feel like they could be up 2-0 as Game #1 did see them take an early two-goal advantage. Game #2 went to overtime with Carl Gunnnarsson providing the game-winner on a delayed penalty. Not sure if the extra day of rest benefits either team here, but we like St. Louis to capture Game #3 at home. Sure, Boston is 6-2 on the road this postseason, winning their last four away games. St. Louis has actually not been a dominant home team, though all three prior series were closed out at the Enterprise Center. All things considered, this is a pretty cheap price on the Blues at home too. They are 18-7 their L25 games as a home favorite, so the the odds are in their favor there. With the price coming down, we say grab the Blues. Play ST. LOUIS AAA |
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05-29-19 | Blues v. Bruins -160 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -160 | 12 h 57 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on BOSTON The Bruins stormed back from an early two goal deficit to take Game 1, but the team's 8th straight victory was by no means easy. They didn't take the lead until 5:21 into the third period and the final goal came on an empty net (costing us the Over). But one positive sign is they did outshoot the Blues 38-20. Blowing a two-goal lead on the road is a missed opportunity and it's the kind of advantage St. Louis is quite unlikely to enjoy again. Boston is 11-2 its last 13 games and only three of those wins (two in Round 2 vs. Columbus) have been by less than a two-goal margin. They're on an incredible 21-5 run when off a game where they allowed two or less goals. Rookie goaltender Jordan Binnington has been great for St. Louis, but is likely to be outplayed again by Tuukka Rask, whose save percentage for the playoffs now sits at a remarkable .940. Play on BOSTON AAA |
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05-21-19 | Sharks v. Blues -158 | Top | 1-5 | Win | 100 | 21 h 60 m | Show |
This is a 10* on ST. LOUIS St. Louis has not been a dominant home team in these playoffs by any means. In fact, they are just 4-5 straight up at the Enterprise Center. That's a surprise seeing as they ended the regular season on a 14-2 streak in home games. But what they have done is close out both previous series at home. They'll have a chance to make it 3 for 3 as they host San Jose in Game #6 of the Western Conference Finals Tuesday. The Blues have to be feeling good about themselves right now after taking three of the last four games in this series. Had there not been a missed call in overtime of Game 3, this series might very well already be over. Game #5 was easily the most one sided affair of the series with St. Louis going to San Jose and delivering a 5-0 shutout. Adding injury to insult, the Sharks lost two key players in that game, Tomas Hertl and Joe Pavelski. Erik Karlsson, having suffered an injury in Game 4, also did not finish the last game. All three may not play Tuesday. The loss of Hertl would be particularly costly as he is #3 overall in goals scored this postseason. The Blues are 7-1 SU following the last eight games they scored 5+ goals. They move onto the Stanley Cup Finals. Play on ST LOUIS AAA |
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05-17-19 | Sharks v. Blues -136 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 12 h 49 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on ST. LOUIS We're not sure how long it will take to get over losing Wednesday's Game of the Year play on St. Louis. Certainly, we aren't over it yet. Watching the Blues storm back from a 3-1 deficit to take a 4-3 lead and then give up the game-tying goal late in regulation was tough enough. But the way they lost in overtime was worse and never should have happened. The refs missed a pretty blatant penalty on the Sharks, which led to the game-winning goal. But there's no better way for the Blues (and us) to avenge that defeat than by coming back and winning Game #4, which is again at home. St. Louis has been "left for dead" before. After all, they had the fewest points in the league back on January 2nd. So it would be very "on brand" to see them bounce back with a win tonight. We think they will as San Jose drops to 3-8 its last 11 road games. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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05-15-19 | Sharks v. Blues -140 | Top | 5-4 | Loss | -140 | 29 h 26 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on ST. LOUIS St. Louis did what it needed to do in the first two games and that's win once. Now that they've stolen the home ice advantage away from San Jose, the Blues get the next two games at their rink. While they have not been as dominant at home as you would expect in the playoffs, they did close out each of their first two series at the Enterprise Center. They are 17-6 the last 23 games here and that includes one loss where they were not money line favorites. After poor defensive play essentially "gave away" Game #1, the Blues responded with a very impressive 4-2 win in Game #2. How did they do it? With much better defense. The Sharks simply do not score as many goals on the road as they do at home. In the 10 home playoff games, they have scored 39 goals or an average of 3.9 per game. In six road playoff games, they have scored only 12 goals or an average of 2.0 per game. That's basically a 50% drop in production. Individually, 16 of the combined 22 playoff goals from Logan Couture and Thomas Hertl have been scored in San Jose. In their lone regular season visit to the Gateway City, the Sharks were shut out 4-0. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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05-08-19 | Avalanche v. Sharks -134 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 12 h 24 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on SAN JOSE We backed the home team in last night's Game 7 and will do so again in this one as San Jose hosts Colorado. For the Sharks, the Avalanche have been a lot harder to deal with in this series, then they were in the regular season. San Jose won all three times they played in the regular season, but this series has seen neither side be able to win consecutive games. That bodes well for San Jose though as they LOST Game #6 in Denver, 4-3 in overtime. Of course, this isn't San Jose's first Game 7 of these playoffs. They won in dramatic fashion (overtime) in a Game 7 in Round 1 over Vegas. That came after having to win on the road in Game 6 (a 2 OT game). Home teams have now won 3 of the 4 Game 7's played in the playoffs so far. Colorado is just 3-13 the last 16 times they have been an underdog of +150 or less on the money line. Play on SAN JOSE AAA |
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05-07-19 | Stars v. Blues -130 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 12 h 19 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on ST. LOUIS It's come down to a Game 7 between the Stars and the Blues. It'll be played in St. Louis, which seems like an obvious advantage for the home team, but they're actually just 2-4 SU here in the postseason. But after losing both Games #2 and #5 on home ice (won Game #1), we look for the Blues to win here. We simply believe them to be the better team as Dallas has had an issue scoring all season on the road (29th in the league). The Blues won Game #6 in Dallas, 4-1, and would seem to have some momentum here. Don't discount the impact of the injury suffered by Stars goalie Ben Bishop on Sunday as he had to leave the ice. He'll obviously go in Game #7, but is he at 100% for the biggest game of the year? After the road team took four of the previous five games, it's time for the home team to deliver when it matters most. The Blues have won all three games where they scored at least three goals and we expect them to hit that number tonight. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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05-04-19 | Avalanche v. Sharks -130 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 15 h 30 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on SAN JOSE Time for the Sharks to wrest control of this series for good. They have won Games #1 and #3, only for Colorado to tie the series up with a win in the following games (#2 and #4). But San Jose still has the home ice edge and that's going to be important here in Game #5. The Sharks are 29-18 in all home games this season and they average an impressive 3.7 goals/game at "The Tank," one of the best marks in the league. Colorado is only 20-26 SU on the road. The Sharks were blanked 3-0 in Game 4. Sound familiar? They were also shutout in Game #4 of the last series, losing 5-0 to Vegas. They came back and won the next three games, including a five-goal effort in Game 5. This time the Sharks don't need to win three in a row, just two. In the regular season, San Jose was shutout just four times. They came back and won the next game after three of those four occasions. Play on SAN JOSE AAA |
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05-03-19 | Stars v. Blues -138 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -138 | 14 h 44 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on ST. LOUIS We've had St. Louis in both of their wins in this series and will look to make it 3 for 3 tonight in Game 5. With the series tied up at 2-2, this is a very important game as one of the teams will be put on the brink of elimination for the first time in these playoffs. The Blues have won all four times this postseason they've been tied in a series (This includes both Game 1's.) They have not performed as well as you'd think at home, going just 2-3 SU here in the playoffs. But they've still won 16 of their last 21 games here in the Gateway City. When the opponent gave up two goals or less the last game, St. Louis has gone 22-5 its last 27. Obviously here, they are facing the same team. But the Stars are unlikely to replicate Game 4's four goal effort, just like they were unable to replicate Game 2's 4-goal effort. After all, the regular season saw them score the fourth fewest number of goals. Game 2 was also the last time Dallas allowed two goals or less. They promptly lost Game 3 by a score of 4-3. Look for the Blues to maintain home ice advantage with a big win on Friday. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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05-01-19 | Islanders v. Hurricanes -118 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 11 h 42 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on CAROLINA What a difference one series has made for the Islanders. In the first round, they took the first two games on the road en route to a surprising sweep of the favored Penguins. Now in Round 2, they're down 0-2 to the underdog Hurricanes, having dropped Games #1 and #2 on home ice. Carolina has won four in a row dating back to its first round series with Washington, the last three wins all coming on the road, including a Game 7 win in double overtime. This will be our first time backing either side in the series, though we did win with the Under in Game 1, which was as easy as it gets considering it was a scoreless tie at the end of regulation. The Hurricanes have given up just one goal in the series and now return home where they've yet to lose in the playoffs (3-0). In the three home games vs. the Capitals, they allowed just three goals. The big story for Game 3 is that the Canes will be starting Curtis McElhinney in place of Petr Mrazek in goal due to the latter sustaining a lower body injury. But it hardly matters as Carolina is the better team here and McElhinney posted near identical numbers to Mrazek in the regular season. Play on CAROLINA AAA |
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04-29-19 | Blues +104 v. Stars | Top | 4-3 | Win | 104 | 12 h 21 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on ST. LOUIS The Blues never trailed in Game 1 even though they got off only 20 shots. Now 35-13-4 straight up since January 2nd (when they were last in the division and had the fewest number of points in the league!), we think this team is peaking at the right time. We'd figured they'd take both games at home as they came into Game 2 at 15-4 the L19 times as a home favorite. But alas, they did not. They lost Game 2 by a score of 4-2 and now head back to Dallas needing one win in the next two games to recapture the home ice advantage. We look for them to get that one win tonight. When the opponent gave up two goals or less the last game, St. Louis has gone 21-5 its last 26. Obviously here, they are facing the same team. But the Stars are unlikely to replicate Game 2's four goal effort. After all, the regular season saw them score the fourth fewest number of goals. As you might have guessed, among playoff teams, they easily scored the fewest. We think that inability to score consistently will end up biting them here. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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04-25-19 | Stars v. Blues -150 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 14 h 38 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on ST. LOUIS For the first time under the NHL's current playoff format, all four division winners from the regular season were eliminated in the first round. Dallas is responsible for one of those upsets, beating Central Division champ Nashville in six games. But while Nashville won the Central this year, they weren't the hottest team in the division down the stretch. That would be St. Louis, who is the Stars' second round opponent. The Blues were not only in last place back on January 2nd, they had the fewest number of points in the entire league (34) and had already made a coaching change. But my what a turnaround it has been under Craig Berube as the team has gone 34-12-4 SU since Jan 2nd. The Blues got rid of the Jets in six games and now have home ice advantage for a second round series, something that would have sounded completely ridiculous just three months ago. St. Louis' record as a home favorite is 14-4 the last 18 games and they are 8-2 the L10 home games overall. Though Dallas has won six of the last seven times they've met St. Louis, the home team remains 7-3 the L10 meetings. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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04-24-19 | Hurricanes v. Capitals -145 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -145 | 11 h 16 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on WASHINGTON While Carolina was the call for Game 6, the home team has won every game in this series and we don't see that changing tonight in Game 7. Home teams won both Game 7's last night in the Stanley Cup playoffs with Boston and San Jose each advancing. This series has seen the home team really dominate, including a 6-0 win by the Capitals in Game 5. While each team has tallied 17 goals in the series, scoring has been really lopsided in favor of the home team. Washington has scored a total of 14 goals in the three home games in the series as opposed to just three in Carolina. The Hurricanes have scored just five in the three games here in D.C. and 12 at home. The Hurricanes have lost six in a row as a money line underdog while the Capitals are 6-0 the last six times they have been a money line favorite in the playoffs. The Caps are also 16-5 the last 21x they've been favored on the money line, period. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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04-22-19 | Capitals v. Hurricanes -109 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 20 h 59 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on CAROLINA Our call on Carolina in Game #5 was obviously quite bad. They did outshoot Washington, but the fact that they lost 6-0 makes that rather irrelevant. Now it's do or die time for the Hurricanes as they face elimination. Fortunate for them they'll be back in Raleigh for Game #6. The home team has won every game in this series and we believe that pattern will hold true tonight and thus we're headed for a Game #7 back in Washington. As discussed going into the last game, Carolina has done an effective job at limiting the number of shots by the Capitals in this series. Washington is only averaging 25.6 shots per game. This was a strength of Carolina in the regular season. So was getting the puck on net as they were tops in the league in shots per game themselves. The Caps are just 2-5 SU their last seven games as an underdog. Carolina is 13-3 its last 16 games as a favorite of -110 to -150. They are also 4-1 the last five times following a loss by three or more goals. They held Washington to one goal in the two previous games here. Play on CAROLINA AAA |
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04-20-19 | Hurricanes +122 v. Capitals | Top | 0-6 | Loss | -100 | 12 h 15 m | Show |
This is a 9* play on CAROLINA Carolina has done a great job getting back into this series. So far, the home team has won all four games, but that trend is about to change. The Hurricanes have held the Capitals to an average of just 26.4 shots attempts per game, which is the lowest amount for any team in the playoffs. After cruising to a 5-0 victory in Game #3, the Hurricanes were able to prevail in a tight Game #4, winning 2-1. They did an excellent job defensively the last two games as Washington's lone goal came via the power play. Carolina has dominated the puck, nothing new as they led the league in shots per game during the regular season. We're not convinced the Hurricanes aren't the better team here and they're a great value at 'plus money' for Game #5. Over the last 48 games, they have gone 32-16 while Washington is only 26-22. Play on CAROLINA AAA |
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04-20-19 | Stars v. Predators -140 | Top | 5-3 | Loss | -140 | 7 h 3 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on NASHVILLE Being that they're the home team for Game 5, Nashville needs this one more as they certainly want to avoid the possibility of facing elimination when they go to Dallas for Game 6. Now such a scenario obviously doesn't guarantee victory and the Stars would love to head back home with a chance to close out the series. But we lean towards the Predators in this one as they typically do an admirable job of bouncing back from a blowout loss. They're on a 5-1 streak when coming off a loss where they allowed five or more goals. They've also won four straight times after being beaten by three or more goals. Champions of the Central Division, the Predators are the better team here. They made the mistake of giving up three power play goals in the first period of Game 4, but that won't happen again now that goaltender Pekka Rinne is rested (was pulled early). Dallas only averages 2.3 goals per game on the road. Play on NASHVILLE AAA |
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04-19-19 | Avalanche v. Flames -167 | Top | 5-1 | Loss | -167 | 14 h 15 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on CALGARY Calgary must win to stay alive tonight (down 3-1 in the series) and fortunately they return to home ice where they won Game 1 and are 27-11-5 this season. No team had a higher goals per game average at home this year. The Flames averaged 4.05 goals/game at home in the regular season and basically hit that average in a 4-0 shutout back in Game 1. They have twice blown a third period lead in the last three games. Game 2 was here at home and they allowed the game tying goal late before losing in overtime. Game 4 in Colorado may have been even worse as they had a 2-0 lead with less than 12 minutes remaining, but then gave up two goals and lost again in OT. The Avalanche remain 2-11 their last 13 games as a road underdog of +110 and +150 and we just can't see them beating Calgary four straight times. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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04-17-19 | Flames -110 v. Avalanche | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -110 | 14 h 53 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on CALGARY The Flames are still the better team here despite being down in the series two games to one. We fully expect them to tie up the series tonight before heading back to Calgary for Game 5. After easily taking Game 1 (won 4-0), the Flames lost Game 2 in overtime. That was a tough result considering they were less than three minutes away from taking a 2-0 series lead. But they gave up a late game-tying goal and then the game-winner quickly in OT. While quite potent offensively at home, the Flames are just as stingy defensively when they head out on the road. No team gave up a fewer number of goals as the road team in the regular season. So look for the Flames to "tighten the screws" for Game 4 after being torched for six goals in Game 3. They are still 9-3 the last 12 matchups against Colorado. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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04-16-19 | Sharks v. Golden Knights -149 | Top | 0-5 | Win | 100 | 15 h 40 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on VEGAS Though they did take Game 1 at home, San Jose has kind of fallen apart over the last month. They have achieved victory just 4 times in the last 15 games and have lost Games 2 and 3 to Vegas. In less than two years time, the Golden Knights have achieved one of the league's premier home ice advantages, having gone 61-25-7 SU all-time at T-Mobile Arena, including an 8-3 playoff record. Considering Vegas gives up the third fewest goals in the league at home, it's going to be tough for the Sharks to score here. That they scored three times and lost in Game 3 seems like a potential lost opportunity. Vegas has found the back of the net 11 times in just the last two games and the three top point earners in the playoffs all wear Golden Knights jerseys. That includes Mark Stone who already has six goals in the series! Knights fans are used to seeing plenty of fireworks in home games as the team averages 35.6 shots per game at home, second most in the league. Play on VEGAS AAA |
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04-14-19 | Lightning -135 v. Blue Jackets | Top | 1-3 | Loss | -135 | 11 h 55 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on TAMPA BAY Columbus is up 2-0 in this best of seven series with Tampa Bay and there are no words to describe just how shocking it would be were the Blue Jackets to advance. The Lightning put together one of the all-time great regular seasons, whether you're talking about offense or simply winning. They won 62 games and had 21 more points than the next best team. There were four separate win streaks of at least seven games. They turned in the highest power play percentage in league history (28.1%) and averaged 3.93 goals per game, the most by any team in any season since 1995-96. But since taking a 3-1 lead in Game 1, it has all gone wrong with Columbus outscoring them 9-1. The series now moves to Ohio, but the Lightning can still avoid infamy and we aren't about to count them out. They outscored the Blue Jackets 17-3 in the three regular season meetings and at no point in the regular season did they ever lose three in a row. This is actually just the third time they've dropped two straight. Even without Nikita Kucherov, the Lightning get it done here. Play on TAMPA BAY AAA |
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04-10-19 | Blue Jackets v. Lightning -220 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -220 | 27 h 40 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on Tampa Bay (Game 1) This is obviously the biggest mismatch of the eight first round playoff series and has been priced accordingly. But really, oddsmakers probably can't set the odds high enough. Tampa Bay, coming off a record-setting 62-win regular season, should be considered the overwhelming favorite to lift the Stanley Cup two months from now. The Lightning have set a ridiculous bar, finishing with 21 more points than every other team, which is the largest gap between one team and the field since the 1995-96 Red Wings. They produced four different win streaks of at least seven games, also matching a record set by Gretzky's Oilers in 1983-84. They had the highest power play percentage in league history (28.1%) and averaged 3.93 goals per game, the most by any team since those 95-96 Red Wings. The Lightning also demolished their first round opponent, Columbus, three separate times, beating them 8-2, 4-0 and 5-1. That's a combined 17-3 margin. Game 1 of this best of seven series should not be close nor should this series. Play on TAMPA BAY AAA |
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04-06-19 | Oilers +155 v. Flames | Top | 3-1 | Win | 155 | 12 h 1 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on EDMONTON An underdog play here as Edmonton will look to end another disappointing season on a high note. The Oilers have two 100-point scorers, Conor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, but little else to boast about from 2018-19. They are set to finish well below expectations set and this comes on the heels of last year's substantial decline in points when they went from 103 points (2016-17) to 78. But the "Battle of Alberta" vs. rival Calgary should have them plenty motivated. The Flames have won the Pacific Division and will be the top seed in the Western Conference for the first time in 30 years. So they're thinking more about the playoffs and not this game. They've been resting key players recently. So this edition of the rivalry will mean far more to the Oilers. Play on EDMONTON AAA |
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04-04-19 | Sharks -141 v. Oilers | Top | 3-2 | Win | 100 | 13 h 47 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on SAN JOSE The Sharks are going to the playoffs, but it's certainly a case of "limping in" as they've dropped 9 of 10 (1-8-1) and you'd have to go all the way back to March 12th to find the last time they won a game in regulation. At that time, everything was looking great. They were on a six-game win streak, their second six game win streak since the All Star Break. But things have definitely hit the skids recently and a win over a non-playoff team like Edmonton would definitely go a "long way" here. The Oilers are having another disappointing season. Despite two 100+ point scorers, they have just 77 points and they too have played poorly of late. It's four straight losses coming into tonight and they've gotten outscored 17-6. This is the final home game of the season in Edmonton, but they may be more interested in Saturday's game at rival Calgary. Or maybe the Oilers have simply "packed it in" and will roll over for the Sharks. Either way, expect this to be a pretty easy two points for the road team, who is 3-0 vs. Edmonton since Christmas scoring 5, 7 and 7 goals in the three wins. Play on SAN JOSE AAA |
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04-04-19 | Jets v. Avalanche -113 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 13 h 47 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on COLORADO One playoff spot is still up for grabs in the NHL's Western Conference. It is very likely that Colorado will grab it. All they need to do is win one of their final two games. Clinching at home would probably be pretty sweet for a team that has not made the playoffs in back to back seasons for 13 years. The Avalanche are playing well right now with wins in seven of their last nine contests. Both losses came in extra time while all but one win was in regulation. Winnipeg has been trending in a different direction with five losses in the past seven games, all of them coming in regulation. The Jets now could finish as low as third in the Central Division depending on how Nashville and St. Louis each finish. Denver seems to be an unlikely destination for a turnaround considering five of the last six times they've come here, Winnipeg has lost. They lost by a score of 7-1 here in February and are off 5-1 loss to Minnesota Tuesday. Colorado won its last game 6-2 and is simply in better form right now. Play on COLORADO AAA |
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04-02-19 | Bruins v. Blue Jackets -140 | Top | 6-2 | Loss | -140 | 11 h 55 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on COLUMBUS Tonight is the Blue Jackets final home game of the regular season, but the faithful in Columbus are certainly hoping its not the final home game of the year. Right now, the Blue Jackets sit in the top Wild Card spot with 94 points, but have two teams (Carolina, Montreal) within two points and only two of those three can make it to the playoffs. Columbus is certainly doing its best to ensure there will be more games played here in Ohio's state capital as they've won five in a row with three of those wins coming in shutout fashion. Goalie Sergei Bobrovsky has a .957 save percentage his last 11 starts and a 38-save shutout of Buffalo on Sunday was his league-leading ninth of the season. With the final two games of the year at Ottawa and New York (Rangers), we see Columbus as having an excellent shot at making the playoffs. But they want that top Wild Card spot as it will allow them to avoid facing the juggernaut known as Tampa Bay in Round 1. Boston doesn't really have anything left to play for except formally clinching home ice advantage for their Round 1 series against Toronto. But that's pretty much a formality at this point anyway. The Bruins have allowed 10 goals in their last two games, which is two more than Columbus has allowed in its last six games. Play on COLUMBUS AAA |
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03-31-19 | Bruins -200 v. Red Wings | Top | 3-6 | Loss | -200 | 11 h 55 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on BOSTON Despite them already being safely in the playoffs, don't expect Boston to take last night's 4-1 loss to Florida "lying down." This is because, among other reasons, the Bruins would also like to lock down home ice advantage for their upcoming 1st round series with Toronto. (They did catch a major break last night with Toronto losing at Ottawa). Yesterday's loss was a rarity as it snapped the B's 12-game win streak at home and was the first time all season they lost an afternoon game on regulation (7-0-1 previously). But they are still 20-5-4 their last 29 games overall. The next three are all on the road and though Detroit has won four in a row overall and two straight over the Bruins, this one shapes up to be the easiest. One positive for the road team is they are 8-1 this season following a game where they were held to 1 goal or less. The Red Wings last game was a 4-0 win over New Jersey, just their 2nd shutout of the season. The previous won came back on February 2nd against another bad team (Ottawa) and the Wings promptly followed that up by losing their next game (at home). History repeats itself here. Play on BOSTON AAA |
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03-29-19 | Blues -205 v. Rangers | Top | 2-4 | Loss | -205 | 11 h 16 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on ST. LOUIS Should be an easy two points tonight for the Blues, who could find themselves tied for second place in the Central Division if all breaks right for them tonight. First they need to beat the Rangers, which seems likely given the current state of their opponent. New York has won just once in its last eight games with five of the seven losses coming by three goals or more. At this point, the Rangers are just looking forward to summer vacation as they've been out of contention for some time. St. Louis is on a four-game win streak and has played as well as any team in the league in the second half. They are 34-17-5 since Craig Berube took over behind the bench, including a 20-5-3 record their past 28 games. Making life even easier is that the Blues have been off since Monday. They are already 5-2 this season when playing with three or more days rest. The team is 55-14 their past 69 games as a favorite of -201 or higher, so laying the juice is certainly justified in this particular instance. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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03-28-19 | Canadiens v. Blue Jackets -145 | Top | 2-6 | Win | 100 | 8 h 2 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on COLUMBUS There's a lot on the line here. These two teams are vying against one another for the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference. Right now, Montreal has a two point edge over Columbus. That could obviously go away after tonight and we think it will. The Blue Jackets do have two more regulation + OT wins this season compared to the Canadiens. They are also coming off two straight shutouts where they outscored the Canucks and Islanders 9-0. Montreal just beat Florida 6-1, but that was at home and they haven't had to play many road games recently. The Habs have lost 4 of 5 on the road, getting oustcored by a 2:1 margin. While 2-0 against Columbus in the current season, they're not the more talented team here. Blue Jackets goalie Sergei Bobrovsky actually now leads the league with eight shutouts. He'll obviously be the one in goal tonight and may very well be the difference maker in a game his team must have. Play on COLUMBUS AAA |
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03-27-19 | Stars v. Flames -155 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -155 | 11 h 59 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on CALGARY Calgary has already clinched a playoff berth and now is trying to lock down a division title. They've got a six-point edge over ice cold San Jose and considering how the Sharks have looked of late, the Flames finishing first might be a formality at this point. But don't expect the home team to take this game lightly as they just lost 3-0 to the last place Kings on Monday. That game saw them finish with a 42-20 edge in shots, so that makes the final score even more disappointing. Dallas badly needs a win here too as they are trying to lock down at least a Wild Card spot. But Calgary has gone 25-8-5 at home and will be taking the ice with double revenge for two losses that occurred early in the season. In other words, any hopes the Stars had of Calgary not taking this game serious are false. Considering they just went 1-4 on a recent home stand, the likelihood of Dallas winning back to back games in Western Canada seem remote. They win in Winnipeg Monday, but not here. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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03-25-19 | Penguins -198 v. Rangers | Top | 5-2 | Win | 100 | 11 h 30 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on PITTSBURGH The Penguins are not only trying to make the playoffs, they're going for a division title. There's a wide range of outcomes for where they can actually land in terms of playoff position, but the concern is winning the Metropolitan. They're three points back of Washington entering play tonight and can tie the second place Islanders with a win here. (Both Washington and NY won Sunday). Winning tonight should not be difficult as the Pens play the Rangers. The Blueshirts are officially eliminated from contention and figure to "mail this one in" after a surprising overtime win in Toronto on Saturday. The last time New York won back to back games was back before the All Star Break. Since then, they are 0-7 SU off a win and have dropped 18 of 26 games overall. Pittsburgh is 13-4-4 its last 21 games. While many of the wins have been close, you have to like the way goalie Matt Murray has played of late. He is 7-2-2 his last 11 starts, posting a 2.08 goals against average and .939 save percentage. Throw in the Penguins offensive firepower (3.34 goals per game) and we're not sure how the Rangers stand a chance here. They've already lost two meetings to Pittsburgh earlier this year, giving up 13 goals in the process. The Penguins are 10-4 the last 14 meetings. Play on PITTSBURGH AAA |
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03-24-19 | Blue Jackets -155 v. Canucks | Top | 5-0 | Win | 100 | 13 h 41 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on COLUMBUS We played against Vancouver last night and they lost here at home to Calgary by a score of 3-1. The opponent isn't quite as strong Sunday night, but they are more desperate. Columbus is on the outside looking in when it comes to the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference. They need two points just to keep pace w/ Montreal, who holds the final Wild Card spot and is three points ahead. The Blue Jackets have done themselves no favors recently by losing three in a row. But that losing streak should end tonight as the Canucks are without rest and motivation. Losses at both Boston and Calgary were excusable for C-bus, but the 4-1 loss they suffered at Edmonton Thursday night was not. Fortunately, the Jackets are 16-7 coming off a multi-goal loss this year. An offense that has averaged only 2.08 goals per game since the trade deadline really needs to get going. It should here against a Vancouver team that is below average defensively. The Blue Jackets have revenge here too as they lost at home to the Canucks back in December. A good spot for the road team to get back on track. Play on COLUMBUS AAA |
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03-23-19 | Flames -175 v. Canucks | Top | 3-1 | Win | 100 | 11 h 12 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on CALGARY Vancouver has won three in a row, but that comes with a bit of a caveat considering two of the wins were against Chicago and Ottawa. It's a much stiffer test tonight against Calgary and while it comes at home, we don't see the Canucks as being up for the challenge. The division leading Flames have gotten a gift in the form of San Jose losing five straight, thus it's now a four point lead in the Pacific. Getting two more points tonight would be huge as there's only seven games left to play in the regular season. The Flames have also helped themselves by winning five of six and they've done plenty of scoring with 30 goals in that stretch. Vancouver scored seven times in its win over Ottawa on Wednesday night (Calgary's last opponent was also Ottawa and they scored five goals). But as we said at the open, this is a much tougher opponent. Calgary is tied for the second fewest number of goals allowed on the road this season. The Canucks' recent play just isn't indicative of the kind of season they're having while it's been "par for the course" with the Flames. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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03-22-19 | Wild v. Capitals -163 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -163 | 8 h 49 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on WASHINGTON Washington has lost only three of its last 12 games and two of the losses were to Tampa Bay. The Lightning just got them here in D.C. Wednesday, winning a 5-4 decision in overtime. That game saw the Capitals outshoot TB 58-28, which is the kind of effort that typically results in victory. On the bright side, the Caps were able to at least earn a point and stay in front in the Metropolitan. Tonight's opponent is Minnesota, who is just trying to sneak into the playoffs over in the Western Conference. But the Wild have failed to help themselves lately, losing five of their last six games and seven of the last nine. Still, they're only one point back of the Wild Card, but a -17 goal differential tell us that this team is "not ready for primetime," let alone the Capitals. The Wild have not scored more than two goals in any of their last five losses. Washington is 24-11 SU against teams with losing records this season (Wild are 34-31-9) and not only are they 9-2 SU the L11 head to head meetings, they've won five straight at home over Minnesota. Home team gets the two points. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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03-20-19 | Jets -150 v. Ducks | Top | 3-0 | Win | 100 | 14 h 1 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on WINNIPEG Winnipeg is fighting for first place in the Central Division. Anaheim is a bottom tier team. Who would you choose? The last time these teams played, the Jets won 9-3. While that game took place up in Manitoba, this one won't be much closer. Yes, the Ducks have won six of their last nine games and two straight. Some of those wins have even come against playoff contenders. One was against Nashville, which helped out Winnipeg. But tonight finds Anaheim trying to do something they have not accomplished in three months. That would be win a third straight game. The Jets happen to be on a three-game win streak rignht now and they are 23-14 this season when facing a team that has a losing record. Play on WINNIPEG AAA |
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03-18-19 | Jets -170 v. Kings | Top | 3-2 | Win | 100 | 15 h 46 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on WINNIPEG A complete mismatch here as the Jets invade LA to play the Kings. One team is fighting for a division title while the other is a total non-contender that has been at the bottom of the standings all year. Winnipeg is obviously the former as they can increase their lead in the Central to three points over Nashville with a win here. It's a win that should come pretty easily considering Los Angeles has won only two games since February 7th. In their last four home games, the Kings have been outscored 14-5. No team has scored fewer goals or been outscored by a larger margin. Winnipeg is off back to back impressive wins as they beat Boston and San Jose. The next three games will all be on the road before hosting Nashville in a huge Central Division showdown. This one and the next game (at Anaheim) should be an easy four points. We really like the Jets tonight. Play on WINNIPEG AAA |
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03-15-19 | Ducks v. Avalanche -190 | Top | 5-3 | Loss | -190 | 13 h 50 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on COLORADO We don't think that whomever ends up as the two Wild Cards in the Western Conference will be a threat to go deep into the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But someone has to grab the two spots. Right now, 77 points is the threshold, so Colorado (72 points) is really in must-win territory the rest of the way. Good news for the Avs tonight as they are catching Anaheim in the second night of back to back road games. Thursday didn't go well for the Ducks as they lost 6-1 at Arizona. Tonight's game doesn't figure to go any better. The Ducks have scored the fewest goals in the league this year. Having been shutout twice in their last three games, including the last one, look for the Avs to break loose tonight. They're well rested, having last taken the ice on Monday. From a situational perspective, this is one of the bigger mismatches we've see in the NHL in awhile. It's a spot Colorado MUST take advantage of, playing at home. Anaheim is one of the worst teams in the NHL. Play on COLORADO AAA |
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03-14-19 | Predators -185 v. Kings | Top | 3-1 | Win | 100 | 13 h 13 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on NASHVILLE It's rare to find Nashville off a loss or Los Angeles off a win. But both situations are present here as those two teams meet in Staples Center Thursday night. The Predators, who are in first place in the Central, have actually lost two in a row. One was at home to Carolina and the other was at Anaheim. The likelihood of them losing three straight and back to back games against two of the worst teams in the league seems small. The Kings last won back to back games in early February when they won three straight, all on the road, two of them coming in overtime. Since then they've lost 13 out of 15 games. It was Anaheim they beat Sunday. They have not beaten a team in playoff contention since prior to the All Star Break. The Kings are second to last in the league in goals scored while Nashville is 5th in goals allowed. This should be an easy two points for the Preds. Play on NASHVILLE AAA |
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03-12-19 | Capitals v. Penguins -131 | Top | 3-5 | Win | 100 | 11 h 38 m | Show |
This is a 9* play on PITTSBURGH This is a massive game for the Penguins. We think its crucial for them to finish in the top three in the Metropolitan and thus avoid either division winner in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Right now, they are tied for third place with Carolina at 83 points. Washington leads the division with 89 points and has won its last seven games. But they've gotten to play Ottawa, Philadelphia, New Jersey and the Rangers twice during the win streak, so really all they've done is take advantage of a favorable schedule. Pittsburgh just snapped Boston's 19-game point streak with a 4-2 win Sunday. They have gone 9-3-2 the last 14 games themselves with 27 goals scored in the last eight games. Each side figures to start its top goaltender in this one and both Matt Murray and Braden Holtby have been exceptional of late. With Pittsburgh 36-15 their last 51 games as a home favorite of -110 to -150 though, they get the nod tonight on home ice. Play on PITTSBURGH AAA |
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03-06-19 | Maple Leafs -185 v. Canucks | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -185 | 13 h 51 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on TORONTO Toronto just put up six goals in a dominant victory over Calgary Monday night. So they should have little difficulty winning at Vancouver tonight. Five of the Maple Leafs last six games have seen them score at least five goals. All five games were wins. Vancouver's last seven games have brought six defeats and the only win was against Anaheim. The Canucks were just shutout in their last game, 3-0 at Vegas, and simply lack the offensive firepower to compete here. That was the ninth time they've been shutout this season and they were outshot 48-19. Toronto has the league's second best scoring differential. They are a really good team, probably better than its record. Vancouver is not a good team and has already been crushed by the Leafs one time this season, 5-0 out in Toronto. Play on TORONTO AAA |
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03-02-19 | Wild v. Flames -170 | Top | 4-2 | Loss | -170 | 12 h 27 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on CALGARY Two hot teams meet Saturday night in Calgary, but the Flames are both hotter and better. Their win streak has reached seven games with them allowing a total of just four goals in the last four games. They lead the Western Conference with 89 points, are at home (where their record is 20-5-5) and have already beaten the Wild twice. The fact Minny has won four straight is a little bit surprising. They won in Winnipeg Tuesday and have been off ever since. Prior to this win streak, the Wild had gone 1-6-2 their previous nine games. I just don't see them at Calgary's level, especially as the road team. That win in Winnipeg saw the Wild score twice in the final two minutes of the third period. They won't be able to keep up here however as Calgary is the West's highest scoring team. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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02-27-19 | Flames -159 v. Devils | Top | 2-1 | Win | 100 | 11 h 17 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on Calgary While on the road and playing the second night of a back to back, we do not anticipate the Flames having much difficulty winning tonight in New Jersey. Calgary is certainly "back on track" now with six straight wins, including 3-1 over the Islanders last night. This team leads the Western Conference with 87 points, which is a far cry from the 58 points that the last place Devils have. The Devils are off a win, 2-1 over Montreal on Monday, but have not done a good job at staying successful this season. What I mean by that is they've produced back to back victories only one time since the All Star Break. They are only 9-20 when facing an opponent that has a winning record. Calgary is 22-11 vs. sub-.500 foes. With the Flames having allowed just three goals in the last three games, this one is as easy as it looks. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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02-26-19 | Stars v. Golden Knights -190 | Top | 1-4 | Win | 100 | 13 h 9 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on VEGAS The faithful in Vegas are not used to seeing the home team lose, but lose they have as the Golden Knights come into Tuesday having dropped five out of the last six at T-Mobile Arena. That's highly uncharacteristic and I suspect it's just a matter of time before they get back on track. Tonight seems like as good a spot as any as Dallas already lost here once this season. After getting shutout in three of their previous five games, the Stars got off the mat to beat the Blackhawks 4-3 in overtime Sunday. But this team has all sorts of issues scoring, especially on the road where they average the fewest number of goals per game in the league. In its brief franchise history, Vegas is 6-2 SU when coming off three straight defeats. Dallas has been giving up lots of shots on goal lately and this is an area where the Golden Knights can capitalize. Play on VEGAS AAA |
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02-26-19 | Sabres v. Flyers -160 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 10 h 10 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on PHILADELPHIA Already in the midst of a slide, this is a very bad spot for Buffalo. After losing 5-3 last night in Toronto, the Sabres now must play one of the league's hottest teams in Philadelphia. The Flyers stormed back from a two-goal deficit in the third period to beat Pittsburgh on Saturday and have now won 13 out of their last 17 games. Meanwhile, Buffalo has dropped five out of its last six. Given how things have been going, I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if Philly ended up with more points at season's end, which seemed highly unlikely when Buffalo was winning 10 straight back in November. But aside from that one streak, the Sabres are just 19-33 in all other games. That's just not very good, nor is their 11-16-4 road record. The Flyers won 6-2 the last time they faced Buffalo. They've won the last three meetings at home as well. Play on PHILADELPHIA AAA |
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02-25-19 | Canadiens -129 v. Devils | Top | 1-2 | Loss | -129 | 20 h 48 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on MONTREAL Montreal really needs this game. They just lost a game to Toronto, 6-3, a result I predicted would happen (took the Maple Leafs). That keeps them in fourth place in the Atlantic, but also just one point ahead of the two teams tied for the other Wild Card spot. Just a slight drop and the Canadiens could be out of the playoff picture entirely. Lucky for tonight, they are up against a last place team. New Jersey figures to finish at the bottom of the Metropolitan, a place where they've been most of this season. They just gave up five goals in a loss to a bad Rangers team and are 29th in the league in number of goals given up. The Habs should be in a better position as they have either led or at least been tied in the third period in four of their last five losses. This includes the 6-3 loss in Toronto where they gave up a shocking four goals in the third period, three of them coming in the final two minutes. Play on MONTREAL AAA |
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02-23-19 | Canadiens v. Maple Leafs -169 | Top | 3-6 | Win | 100 | 11 h 6 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on TORONTO It's really time for Toronto to get going. They have the unfortunate distinction of having both the league's best (Tampa Bay) and hottest (Boston) team in their division. That's left the Leafs in third place in the Atlantic, making the margin for error incredibly slim. It hasn't helped that they've lost three in a row. Tonight, they'll host Montreal, who happens to be right behind them in the Atlantic. It's only a three-point gap between third and fourth place and once you drop to 4th, then you have to rely on the Wild Card to make the playoffs. That's no guarantee in the Atlantic with five viable playoff teams over in the Metropolitan. So tonight's game has some major importance. I just think Toronto happens to be the significantly better team here and I can't see them losing what would be a season-high 4th straight game. This is actually the first time they've even lost three in a row. The Canadiens have not won a road game since January. Sure, they only played three in February, but they were outscored 12-4 in them. Play on TORONTO AAA |
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02-19-19 | Maple Leafs v. Blues -117 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 12 h 31 m | Show |
This is a *10* play on St. Louis St. Louis continues to be the hottest team in the league as their remarkable run has now hit 10 in a row. Their last three wins have all been shutouts and all three games were on the road. Tonight, I look for this win streak to continue as they get to play host to a Toronto team whose number they have had for the past couple seasons. It's been five straight wins over the Maple Leafs (an old Norris Division rival!) including 4-1 way back in October. At that time, the Blues were playing nowhere near as well as they are now. The Leafs just got shutout in Arizona and while its been awhile since they've lost back to back games, I see that fate befalling them today. This has been a truly dominant stretch by the Blues, outscoring opponents 40-14. It's been led by goalie Binnington, who is 12-1-1 as a starter with a 1.43 GAA and .943 save percentage. You really can't go against this Blues team right now. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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02-17-19 | Capitals -180 v. Ducks | Top | 2-5 | Loss | -180 | 14 h 36 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on WASHINGTON Anaheim is a very bad team, much worse than I think the public realizes at this point. We went into this a bit the last time I went against them, which also happened to be their last game, a 3-0 home loss to the Bruins. The Ducks' goal differential for the season is now -57, which is by far an away the worst such mark in the league. The next worst GD is -38 (Kings). Overall, Anaheim has won just three of its last 23 games. In the last six games, they've managed only five goals. Sunday's opponent is Washington and they scored five goals in their last game. The Caps can't afford to drop this game if they are to keep pace with the surging Islanders in the Metropolitan. The team they just beat (San Jose) had been as hot as anyone in this league. The fact that it was a road win was even more impressive as the Sharks have lost only four times on home ice all season. The Caps have won four of their last six and should cruise here against an Anaheim team that is last in the league in scoring. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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02-15-19 | Bruins -165 v. Ducks | Top | 3-0 | Win | 100 | 21 h 15 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on BOSTON No team in the NHL has been outscored by a wider margin this season than Anaheim. The Ducks YTD goal differential of -54 is easily the worst in the league. That certainly doesn't bode well for them moving forward and I think they're in a lot of trouble tonight, specifically. While they did win Wednesday, all that did was end a seven-game losing streak and it was a 1-0 victory over Vancouver, making it six times in the last eight games they scored 1 or 0 goals. Tonight, Boston invades and the Bruins have won three straight. The Bruins scored six times in their last game, which is more than the Ducks have scored in their last five games combined. Since the All Star Break, Boston is unbeaten in regulation. Meanwhile, Anaheim has lost 19 of 22. As the line suggests, this one seems like a no-brainer! Play on BOSTON AAA |
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02-14-19 | Blues -148 v. Coyotes | Top | 4-0 | Win | 100 | 12 h 21 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on ST LOUIS St. Louis is a hot team right now. They've won seven straight. This has gotten them up to fourth place in the Central Division, which would be good enough for a Wild Card. Tuesday saw them score eight goals in a win over New Jersey. The Blues have done plenty of scoring lately. It's 13 goals in the last two games and they've scored at least three in all but one game in the win streak. The lone exception was a 1-0 win over league-leading Tampa Bay. Tonight I look for the winning ways to continue in Arizona. While the Coyotes have won two in a row, they'd lost five in a before that. This is a revenge game for the Blues as they lost 6-1 in their last visit here. They're obviously playing better now. None of the Coyotes goalies are playing well right now, which means trouble facing this red hot Blues team. Play on ST. LOUIS AAA |
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02-14-19 | Senators v. Red Wings -138 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 11 h 51 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on DETROIT It's a battle between the bottom two teams in the Atlantic Division Thursday night in the Motor City. Not only do the Red Wings have the advantage here of getting the game on home ice, they are the better team anyway. Ottawa has a pretty clear case to be called the worst team in the league. They have the fewest points (47). On the road, things can be quite dire for the Senators. They give up 4.3 goals per game. Overall, no team has given more goals this year - or shots. Detroit has its issues, but is off a nice win, 3-2 at Nashville. Given that result, beating Ottawa at home should not be that difficult. They just beat the Senators 2-0 on the road two weeks ago. They won that game despite a 35-21 deficit in shots. That shouldn't happen again here, given how many shots (and goals) Ottawa usually gives up. Play on DETROIT AAA |
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02-10-19 | Hurricanes -141 v. Devils | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -141 | 7 h 1 m | Show |
This is a 10* on CAROLINA Carolina is starting to make a move for the playoffs. With their own three-game win streak and Pittsburgh losing four in a row, the Hurricanes are now just a point back of the second Wild Card in the Eastern Conference. All three wins during the current streak have come on the road and two were shutouts, the most recent coming Friday (3-0) over the Rangers. You could say New Jersey is going in the other direction as they've lost three straight and seven of nine. Truthfully though, the Devils have been headed in the wrong direction all season. They're the last place team in the Metro and with just 48 points any realistic hope of making the playoffs is out the window. Making matters tougher today is that NJ played yesterday. They lost 4-2 to the Wild, their 5th straight loss at home. This is Carolina's third game in four days, but they've won seven straight in that situation. New Jersey is just 1-7 the last eight times it has played the second game of a back to back. Play on CAROLINA AAA |
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02-09-19 | Blue Jackets v. Golden Knights -160 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -160 | 21 h 56 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on VEGAS Vegas has established one of the strongest home ice advantages in the league and should win this battle of teams coming off back to back wins Saturday night. The Golden Knights' last two wins both came on the road, one of them as a +140 money line dog at Tampa Bay. The same is true for Columbus, but the difference is they are still on the road and its a third road game in five nights to boot. Maybe the biggest reason Vegas is so good at home is the simply don't give up many goals. They are #1 in the league, giving up just 2.16 goals per game on home ice. They have actually lost their last two games at T-Mobile Arena, which is surprising, but that streak should end tonight considering in two years this team has gone 45-16-5 here in the regular season. Play on VEGAS AAA |
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02-05-19 | Blackhawks v. Oilers -129 | Top | 6-2 | Loss | -129 | 13 h 53 m | Show |
This is a 9* Play on EDMONTON Chicago has won four straight. I don't see them making it five. Even with the win streak, which has seen them score seven or more goals in a game twice, they are still in last place in the Central Division. I wouldn't say that a season-long issue (giving up too many goals) has been solved. They are 30th in goals allowed and 31st in penalty killing. In the wake of Corey Crawford's concussion issue, goaltending has been a problem. Speaking of problems, Edmonton has lost five in a row. But they are at home tonight and should prevail just like they did (4-0) the last time they hosted Chicago (which was November 1st). This will be the Oilers first home game since the All Star Break. Expect a fired up crowd. Play on EDMONTON AAA |
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02-03-19 | Bruins v. Capitals -122 | Top | 1-0 | Loss | -122 | 5 h 55 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on WASHINGTON The Capitals went into the All Star Break playing their absolute worst hockey of the season. They'd lost seven in a row and given up a stunning 30 goals in five games. But Friday saw them come up with a clutch performance here on home ice as they beat a very good Calgary team 4-3. The Capitals didn't have Alex Ovechkin for that win, but he'll be back today when they host the Bruins. Speaking of losing streaks, Boston has lost three in a row and two of those setbacks have come since the break. All three losses were at home. Thursday saw them go down 3-2 at the hands of the Flyers, in overtime. It was the second straight time the Bruins lost a game that went past regulation as Winnipeg beat them in a shootout on Tuesday. I just don't see Boston turning things around on the road today, especially considering their horrendous history vs. the Capitals. Washington has beaten them 15 straight times and I'll call for them to make it 16 today. Boston's only other visit to D.C. this season resulted in a 7-0 loss on Opening Night. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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02-02-19 | Stars v. Predators -169 | Top | 3-1 | Loss | -169 | 13 h 34 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on NASHVILLE This is a tough ask of the Stars, who won a home game last night against Minnesota and now must turn around and take on one of the top teams in the league. Now Nashville also played and won Friday. They beat the Panthers 4-1 here at Bridgestone Arena. That was the Preds first game post-All Star Break, but their 3rd win in a row overall and they've allowed a total of just three goals in those three wins. Now Dallas has also won three straight while giving up just three goals. Even matchup then, right? Wrong! Nashville is an outstanding home team. They have a 16-9 SU record here and give up just 2.3 goals per game. Dallas is also not a good road team. They are 9-13-2 SU while getting outscored substantially. The Stars also aren't good playing without rest, going 1-6 SU in that situation. Dallas did win here in late December, but won't win for a second time in Music City. Play on NASHVILLE AAA |
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02-01-19 | Flames -113 v. Capitals | Top | 3-4 | Loss | -113 | 11 h 33 m | Show |
This is an 8* Play on CALGARY You'd be hard pressed to find two teams that went into the All-Star Break in different fashion than the Flames and Capitals did. Calgary went into the ASB with a 9-1-1 record its last 11 games. Washington has lost seven in a row. Even after each team got a week off, I don't look for much to change here in the first game of the second half. The Capitals won't be at full strength tonight as they're missing Alex Ovechkin, who must serve a one-game suspension. Then there is the ridiculous number of goals they're giving up. In the last three games alone, Washington has conceded 21 goals. That's bad news when facing a Calgary team that has scored three or more goals in 10 of its last 11 games. They've scored five or more goals in six of those games. And while the Flames may not score as much on the road as they do at home, they happen to lead the league in fewest goals per game given up on the road (2.3). Play on CALGARY AAA |
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01-31-19 | Flyers v. Bruins -202 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -202 | 11 h 27 m | Show |
This is a 6* play on BOSTON Recent results for both of these teams do not match up with the overall bodies of work. I'll be leaning on what we've seen over the long-term from the Flyers and Bruins when making a pick on this Thursday night matchup. Philadelphia's current five-game win streak is their best stretch of the season. During it, they have beaten a couple of good teans, including Boston. The Bruins are just 1-4 their last five games and reeling after losing in a shootout here at home to Winnipeg on Tuesday. But, let's be honest here. Boston is still the better team - by a lot - and that's why the oddsmakers have them priced like this. It's a considerable amount of juice to lay against a team that's won five straight. But note the Flyers have been outshot - including 2:1 (38-19) by the Rangers Tuesday - in all five games. Boston outshot them 42-19 in Philadelphia two weeks ago. Tuesday's 1-0 win over the Rangers was just the third shutout of the season for the Flyers. They are 0-2 off the previous two. Play on BOSTON AAA |
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01-30-19 | Sabres v. Stars -165 | Top | 0-1 | Win | 100 | 11 h 4 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on DALLAS This is going to be an incredibly difficult spot for Buffalo as they just played last night. It was a 5-4 win for the Sabres Tuesday night in Columbus, which is good, but it was an extremely hard fought game that probably leaves them with little in the tank for playing Dallas tonight. Buffalo got out to an early 3-1 lead last night, but allowed Columbus to come back and tie. The Sabres didn't go ahead for good until early in the third period and even then had to keep fighting to hold on. Here, they're losing an hour by going West. The Stars have been off for 10 days thanks to the All-Star Break, so they'll be ready to go at home. They're already 5-0 SU this season when playing with three or more days rest. Buffalo has lost three straight to opponents that have losing records. But despite being 24-21-4 overall, the Stars are right in the thick of the Wild Card race in the Western Conference. Two points here and they'd be the top Wild Card team. Tonight is also the fifth time in a row the Sabres are playing out on the road. Dallas bolstered its blue line during the break by trading for Jamie Oleksiak. They're in a good spot tonight. Play on DALLAS AAA |
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01-29-19 | Jets v. Bruins -170 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -170 | 10 h 23 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on the BRUINS Winnipeg has been given one of the toughest "asks" in the entire league as they will start the second half with back to back road games. Last night did not go well with a 3-1 loss in Philadephia. Now they must quickly regroup and head to Boston where the Bruins will be eager to get things going after a loss in their last game. Now that loss was 10 days ago, but nevertheless, the home team can't afford to lose any more ground in the Atlantic where they are in fourth place (but just three back of second). I think the Bruins are in a good spot here considering they're at home and facing a team playing without rest. Their home record is 17-7-1 and they average 3.5 goals per game at the TD North Bank Garden. As we saw last night, the Jets are a lot more pedestrian on the road. They also lost their last game before the All-Star Break, which was in Dallas. The Bruins are tied for third in the league in fewest goals allowed and also have the #2 power play. Play on BOSTON AAA |
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01-23-19 | Predators v. Golden Knights -125 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -125 | 25 h 26 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on VEGAS It's been a short existence for the Golden Knights franchise (started just last year), but in just a short amount of time they have established one of the stronger home ice advantages in the league. Whether it's the "Vegas flu" or something else, the bottom line is that road teams struggle to win in Sin City. The Knights are 16-5-3 at T-Mobile Arena this season and now 45-15-5 here all-time in the regular season. That's pretty amazing. Off a rare home loss on Monday (to Minnesota), I look for Vegas to bounce back this evening against Nashville. The Predators are a good team in their own right, but this is just their second all-time visit here. They lost the first, played almost a year ago to the date, 3-0. The Knights are 0-3 in Nashville, so they'll be looking for a little retribution tonight. Vegas is 9-3 off a loss by two or more goals this season. Play on VEGAS AAA |
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01-23-19 | Capitals v. Maple Leafs -155 | Top | 3-6 | Win | 100 | 23 h 57 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on TORONTO Logic says that if a hockey team is giving up a lot of goals, then - more often than not - they are going to come out with the "short end of the stick" (so to speak). Therefore, while we all may be unaccustomed to seeing the Capitals lose with such regularity, the team's current six-game losing streak is pretty logical. During it, they have given up THIRTY goals! In the last four games, they have given up SEVEN or more three times! This is very bad, obviously. The most recent loss took place last night, at home, and it went to overtime. First, San Jose scored with one second left in regulation to tie the game at six goals apiece. Then came the game-winner less than two minutes into OT. It is truly incredible that Washington has scored 11 goals in its last two games and lost both. Now, with no rest, they must head to Toronto. The Maple Leafs have lost four of their last five, so they won't be taking it easy on the Stanley Cup Champs. If anything, they too should jump on the scoring brigade. They are already a top five team in goals per game. They should add to it tonight in a major way. Play on TORONTO AAA |
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01-23-19 | Coyotes v. Canadiens -170 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 23 h 56 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on MONTREAL Not sure how "good" the spot is tonight for Montreal, but it is most definitely a "bad" spot for their opponent. Arizona arrives in Quebec having played last night and Sunday up in the Great White North. Three road games in four nights, right before the All-Star Break, is hardly ideal. Even if the Coyotes did win each of those last two games, one of them as a huge underdog (closed +240 on the money line at Toronto). Last night saw the 'Yotes win in Ottawa, but it wasn't as easy as they'd hoped as they had to hold on for a 3-2 final. While travel may be weighing on Arizona, Montreal has been off for the last three days. They will be looking to rebound from an embarrassing defeat here at home vs. Philadelphia on Saturday. That game saw them give up five goals, the most they have surrendered in any game in January. Given the much different situations the teams are facing here (in terms of the schedule), this should be an easy win for the Canadiens. Play on MONTREAL AAA |
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01-22-19 | Sharks v. Capitals -140 | Top | 7-6 | Loss | -140 | 11 h 11 m | Show |
This is a 9* play on the Capitals Washington finds itself on its longest losing streak of the season, five games, as they get set to play an opponent that has given them lots of trouble through the years. San Jose has taken 26 of the previous 33 meetings, including 13 of 17 here in D.C. But the tide turned last season as the Caps won both games against the Sharks en route to winning their first ever Stanley Cup. Fortunately for Washington, San Jose has also recently hit the skids by losing three in a row. This after they (the Sharks) won seven straight. The Caps were flat out embarrassed in their last game as they gave up eight goals to Chicago. But they're back home tonight while San Jose is in a most unfavorable situation. The Sharks just played last night, in Florida. This will be their fourth straight road game and third in the last three nights. Similar to Washington, the Sharks are having real difficulty in preventing their opponents from scoring. Every game during the three-game skid has seen them allow six goals. Prior to their own current skid, Washington had been 6-1 the last three seasons following three or more consecutive losses. They're in a better spot to end their losing streak. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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01-20-19 | Red Wings v. Canucks -135 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 8 h 8 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on VANCOUVER Vancouver is simply the better team here. Sure, they've won only two of their last six games. But both wins were here at home, including one on Thursday, 4-3 over Buffalo. The Canucks are still a very viable threat to make the playoffs as they have 50 points, which is just one back of what would be the final Wild Card in the Western Conference. They still won't have rookie Elias Pettersson out on the ice, but expect Jacob Markstrom to be back in goal for this Sunday afternoon game. Markstrom almost always plays well when coming off extended rest and he wasn't in the crease for the Buffalo game. Detroit has a budding star in Dylan Larkin, but little else as they've fallen into last place in the Atlantic Division. Unlike Vancouver, the Red Wings playoff aspirations can be considered little more than a pipe dream at this point. They gave up six goals in their last game and that loss made it 10 in the last 13 games. They are just 16-37 their last 53 road games. Play on VANCOUVER AAA |
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01-19-19 | Kings v. Avalanche -170 | Top | 1-7 | Win | 100 | 7 h 53 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on COLORADO Colorado has been struggling of late, but this is a great spot for them to get two points as the lowly Kings pay a visit. Although they have lost 10 of their last 12 games (2-8-2), the Avalanche are still 3rd in the Central Division (50 points) and should be able to turn things around on a five-game homestand that goes past next weekend's All-Star Break. The Avs are coming off a very treacherous five-game Canadian trip where they picked up just one win, in Toronto of all places, and things ended in embarrassing fashion with a loss to Ottawa. I don't see them losing to another last place team though, not at home. The Avs' nine home wins is near the bottom of the league, but they've been pretty unlucky with five losses here coming past regulation. They've also played only 20 home games, a league low. The Kings are off a rare win, but remain the lowest scoring team in the league. They are averaging less than two goals per game on the road. Play on COLORADO AAA |
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01-18-19 | Islanders v. Capitals -173 | Top | 2-0 | Loss | -173 | 12 h 49 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on WASHINGTON. The Islanders have been kind to me this week. I won with them both Tuesday and last night, wins over St. Louis and New Jersey. But it is a dramatic step up in class on Friday and they'll have to do so on the road. The Stanley Cup Champs await and will both rested and more motivated than usual. For just the second time this season, Washington is on a three-game losing streak. The last loss took place on Tuesday and saw them beaten 7-2 by Nashville. With two days off to get ready for this one and the Islanders playing the second game of a back to back, the situation is certainly ideal for the Capitals to avoid what would be their first four-game losing streak of the year. Plus, they have had the Islanders number for many years, especially at home where they are 31-12-2 the last 45 meetings. The home team has won five of the last seven meetings overall. As good as New York has been recently, tonight will simply not be their night. Play on WASHINGTON AAA |
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01-17-19 | Jets v. Predators -145 | Top | 5-1 | Loss | -145 | 12 h 37 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on NASHVILLE. This is a big-time showdown for Central Division supremacy. Right now, Winnipeg has a two-point edge on Nashville for first place. But the Predators have the home ice advantage Thursday. As much as that didn't matter in last year's Western Conference Semifina (road team won 5 of 7 games), it sure did when the Preds shut the Jets out 3-0 back in October. They are 16-7 SU at Bridgestone Arena this season while Winnipeg is just 12-8 SU on the road. The Jets come in riding a three-game win streak, but all those wins were at home. They average almost a full goal less per game on the road than they do at home. Nashville's scoring stays pretty consistent when comparing home and road, but they allow about a full goal less per game. They also just crushed Washington here on Tuesday night, 7-2. Viktor Arvidsson is playing out of his mind right now with 24 points in the last 24 games. Predators goalie Pekka Rinne has owned Winnipeg in his career with a 16-4-1 record that includes three shutouts. Nashville has won four straight against teams that have a win percentage of .600 or higher. Play on NASHVILLE. AAA |
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01-17-19 | Devils v. Islanders -152 | Top | 1-4 | Win | 100 | 11 h 37 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on the ISLANDERS. Well, the Islanders rewarded me in their last game, beating the Blues in overtime. My read has not changed in the last 48 hours, so why not come back with them again? They're certainly playing well. The win was their 12th in the past 15 games. Perhaps the most impressive thing about the Islanders is that they are tied with Nashville for the league lead in fewest goals allowed per game. They've given up just four goals in the last three games. It's a much different story being told by Thursday's opponent. New Jersey has allowed nine goals in its last two games. While they did win one of those games, 8-5 against Chicago, I wouldn't go trusting the Devils tonight. They're already 0-2 vs. the Islanders in 2018-19. They're also 0-5 the last five times they've been in a fourth game in a 4 in 6 situation, like they are in tonight. The Islanders have won six straight times after giving up two goals or less the previous game. The Islanders are simply the better team here. Play on NY ISLANDERS. AAA |
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01-16-19 | Avalanche -168 v. Senators | Top | 2-5 | Loss | -168 | 12 h 54 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on Colorado. I like the AVS to roll in this one, just like they did at home against Ottawa earlier in the season. It was a 6-3 win out in Denver back in late October. Colorado won its last game by that same score, only in Toronto, which is obviously a heck of a lot more impressive. Tonight wraps up a five-game road trip up in Canada with the Senators being the weakest opponent of the five. While both of these teams have struggled recently, Ottawa's struggles are season-long while Colorado's are simply confined to the last month. The Senators give up the most shots and goals per game in the league. So I expect Colorado's famed top line of MacKinnon-Rantanen-Landeskog to dominate the puck tonight. That line alone should be enough to own an Ottawa team returning home after a California road trip. Having three days off is nice, but for the Senators it's not nearly enough to make up the difference in talent they face in tonight's matchup. Play on COLORADO AAA |
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01-15-19 | Blues v. Islanders -144 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 12 h 32 m | Show |
This is an 8* bet on the ISLANDERS. This is a really tough spot for the Blues, who are coming off a big upset win in Washington last night. That wasn't the first time they beat the Capitals this year. They beat them at home 12 days ago, then came out and lost to the Islanders (at home) the next time out. This time, the Blues carry a three-game win streak into Brooklyn. But the result should be the same as it was the last time. The Islanders have played outstanding hockey of late, winning 11 of their last 14 games. They are off an incredibly impressive victory as they beat Tampa Bay 5-1 on Sunday. I mentioned that the Blues have won three straight. That matches their longest win streak of the season, so another win would be uncharted territory for them. It hasn't really been a very good season in St. Louis with the team still below .500. More importantly, they are 0-5 when playing on the second night of a back to back. When they hosted the Islanders 10 days ago, they lost even though the Islanders managed just 14 shots on goal. You have to figure they'll see more shots tonight and that means more goals for the home team. Play on NY ISLANDERS AAA |
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01-14-19 | Sabres v. Oilers -118 | Top | 2-7 | Win | 100 | 23 h 57 m | Show |
This is a 9* play on EDMONTON Two fanbases starved to make the playoffs will see their teams face off to open the week. Edmonton is two points back of the second Wild Card in the Western Conference, but given the way most of the teams in front of them are playing right now, a WC spot is ripe for the taking. Over in the Eastern Conference, Buffalo just fell out of a WC spot, thanks to Sunday's results. Neither team has played great of late. Both have won just three times in their last 11 games. The Sabres lost at home to Tampa Bay Saturday while that same night saw the Oilers dump one here at home to the Coyotes. So who has the edge in this one? I think it's Edmonton, who gets to play on home ice for a second straight game. An unlucky bounce cost them vs. the Coyotes, but Buffalo has had even less luck of late. The Sabres have won just 6 of their last 26 games and let's be honest here; that 10-game win streak from earlier this year (which is their claim to fame) involved a lot of luck. Their last win on the road occurred on December 16th. Play on EDMONTON AAA |
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01-14-19 | Avalanche v. Maple Leafs -180 | Top | 6-3 | Loss | -180 | 21 h 58 m | Show |
This is a 6* Play on TORONTO Colorado has lost 9 of its last 10 games (1-7-2) so an opponent the caliber of Toronto is the last thing they wanted to see for Monday. But a date with the Maple Leafs is what the schedule calls for and even worse is that Toronto won't be taking this game lightly as they are coming off a loss in this building Saturday night, 3-2 to Boston. That was a game the Leafs felt they should have had, but a tiebreaking goal, late in the 2nd period, proved to be the difference. Still, despite losing four of six themselves, Toronto is clearly the better team in this matchup. They'll be even better if #1 goaltender Frederik Anderson makes his return to the ice here. Colorado was just shutout in Montreal Saturday and is 0-3 on their current five-game Canadian road trip. Only the Lightning have a better goal differential than the Leafs, who are top six in the league in both goals scored and allowed. The Avalanche have an exceptional top line, but little in the way of depth. Toronto has won 43 of its last 62 games played vs. teams with losing records. Play on TORONTO AAA |
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01-14-19 | Blackhawks v. Devils -140 | Top | 5-8 | Win | 100 | 21 h 57 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on NEW JERSEY The Devils aren't exactly tearing it up this season, but they've got some momentum off a win here at home against the Flyers. Tonight, they'll host a Blackhawks team that simply "ain't what they used to be." Chicago has the same number of points (41) as New Jersey, but has actually played much worse over the course of this season. They come into Monday having dropped three consecutive decisions, all by the same score of 4-3. All three losses came at home. The 'Hawks have lost five of six and are in last place in the Central. Only the Flyers and Senators have been outscored by a greater margin this year. Rookie goaltenders now occupy the space between the pipes for both teams, but the edge here very likely comes down to the fact Chicago is 30th in the league in goals allowed and penalty killing. New Jersey is 2nd in the league in penalty killing. Home ice advantage is also critical. The Devils are a respectable 12-5-4 at home. Chicago is 10-30 its L40 road games vs. teams with a winning home record. Play on NEW JERSEY AAA |
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01-10-19 | Capitals v. Bruins -136 | Top | 4-2 | Loss | -136 | 11 h 43 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on the Bruins You might be surprised to see the Bruins getting this kind of "love" from the oddsmakers against a team like the Capitals. But you shouldn't. Boston has won five straight and looked pretty dominant in doing so. Their most recent win was a shutout, 4-0 over Minnesota on Tuesday, right here at home. The good news is that they're 10-4 SU this season when off a win by two more goals. The bad news is that Washington has been a terrible matchup for them in the past. The Caps have gone 10-0-3 the past 13 meetings, including a 7-0 win to open the season. You can bet Boston will want to avoid this matchup at all costs in the playoffs, so finishing top three in the Atlantic is pretty important. That means they have to beat them now and I think they will. Goalie Tuukka Rask has been on fire lately (.959 save percentage L4 starts) and Washington has lost two of its last three road games. This is a game the Bruins have had circled since getting smashed in the season opener and I expect them, already red hot, to play one of their better games of the season. Play on BOSTON AAA |
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01-09-19 | Avalanche v. Flames -173 | Top | 3-5 | Win | 100 | 14 h 40 m | Show |
This is a 7* play on Calgary Calgary has put it all together this season to become one of the more complete teams in the league. With a 27-13-4 SU record, they are currently tied with Vegas for first place in the Pacific Division. But the Flames have two games in hand. With the Golden Knights idle tonight, I'd say it's pretty imperative for Calgary to go out and grab the two points. Fortunately, they'll be hosting a Colorado team that comes in reeling. I played against the Avalanche last night and they lost 7-4 in Winnipeg. Everything I wrote about them yesterday obviously still applies today as the Avs lack of depth is starting to become a real concern. The top line of MacKinnon-Landeskog-Rantanen contributed two goals and three assists last night, but everyone else didn't do much of anything. Lack of depth is a clearly an even bigger issue when playing without rest as the Avalanche are here. They have dropped seven of eight and just gave up seven goals last night. They are in no position to contend with one of the best teams in the league tonight, especially playing on the road. Play on CALGARY AAA |
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01-08-19 | Avalanche v. Jets -151 | Top | 4-7 | Win | 100 | 11 h 2 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on WINNIPEG Winnipeg (26-13-2, 53 points) is a very good team and figures to be locked into a battle with Nashville for 1st place in the Central the rest of the way. A little behind the Jets and Preds is a Colorado team that sports the top line in the game, but also lacks depth and that's why ultimately they'll be unable to catch the two division heavyweights. Before beating the Rangers 6-1 on Friday, the Avs had lost six in a row, scoring more than two goals in only two of the six games. This is a team entirely dependent on its top line to score goals. Winnipeg is a deeper and better team. Manitoba has not been a good place to play for the Avalanche as they're 0-5 here the L3 seasons. The last three visits have seen them outscored 14-3, including a 5-2 loss in November. The teams are basically even in scoring, but the Jets have a noticeable edge when it comes to goals allowed. They rank 9th, which is 10 spots higher than Colorado. The Avs are also 0-3 this year when playing with 3 or more days rest. Play on WINNIPEG AAA |
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01-07-19 | Wild v. Canadiens -118 | Top | 1-0 | Loss | -118 | 19 h 55 m | Show |
This is a 9* play on MONTREAL. The Canadiens will be looking to grab a much needed two points Monday night at home against the Wild. The Habs are currently 22-15-5 and one point behind Buffalo for what would be the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference. Minnesota has certainly not been a kind opponent for them as it's been eight straight losses to the Wild. But I believe this time will be different as the Habs are at home and the Wild (20-17-3) aren't exactly tearing things up right now. They'd lost six of seven before recording back to back wins on the road, at Toronto and Ottawa. A big change for Montreal for this game compared to the last time they faced the Wild (on Dec 11th) is that Carey Price is probably going to be in goal. Backup Antii Niemi was terrible last month in St. Paul, allowing seven goals. The Wild power play was also 4 for 4 in that game, which is somewhat ridiculous. I don't see the Minnesota PP being anywhere close to that prolific tonight. Play on MONTREAL AAA |
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01-06-19 | Oilers v. Ducks -140 | Top | 4-0 | Loss | -140 | 12 h 4 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on Anaheim Two Pacific Division teams desperate for a win play Sunday night at "The Pond" with Anaheim (19-16-7) hosting Edmonton (19-19-3). The Ducks have lost seven in a row, tied for the longest active losing streak in the league, but it's not as if the Oilers have played any better of late. Connor McDavid's bunch has dropped seven of eight, the one win coming at Arizona on Wednesday. But this is the second night of a back to back for the Oilers as they were shutout last night in Los Angeles, 4-0. Edmonton managed only 16 shots in the loss and their own goaltender Mikko Koskinen was chased after giving up three goals on eight shots. McDavid basically is getting no help from his teammates right now. Anaheim is a low-scoring team , but Edmonton is the perfect opponent as they've given up 45 goals the last 12 games. Last night's loss certainly doesn't set up well for an Oilers team that is already 5-11 when coming off a multi-goal defeat. Play on ANAHEIM AAA |
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01-06-19 | Stars v. Jets -148 | Top | 1-5 | Win | 100 | 9 h 4 m | Show |
This is an 8* play on the Jets Two of the top three teams from the NHL's Central Division face off here with second place Winnipeg (25-13-2) hosting Dallas (22-16-4). Though the Stars have closed the gap to just four points in the standings, I think the actual gap (in terms of talent) is far greater. There's "something about Sundays" for the Jets as they're 5-0 when playing on a Sunday this season. I did just play against them Friday, but that was on the road against an incredibly hot Penguins team. Sure enough, the Jets lost 4-0, but the fact they were NOT big underdogs on the money line for that game should tell you about the kind of respect they get from oddsmakers. Conversely, tonight's line looks a little low. It's a big game for Winnipeg as they have lost three of four. Dallas is off a big 2-1 win over Washington, but that came at home. On the road, the Stars are just 8-11-2. (Winnipeg is 13-6-2 at home). Dallas REALLY struggles to score on the road (2.2 goals per game), an average that ranks third from the bottom in the entire league. Winnipeg is top five in the league in scoring at home. The Jets are also 9-5 SU after allowing 4+ goals and 6-2 SU after being held to 1 or 0 the last game. Play on WINNIPEG AAA |
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01-05-19 | Blue Jackets v. Panthers -125 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -125 | 21 h 7 m | Show |
This is a 10* play on FLORIDA Florida (17-16-6) started the season pretty poorly (losing 8 of its first 10 games), but they've been able to battle back to respectability and can at least say they've passed two teams (Detroit, Ottawa) in the Atlantic Division. I like the Panthers chance of getting two more points tonight as they are hosting Columbus. At first, you might wonder why that is, but the Blue Jackets just played last night and that puts them at a pretty distinct disadvantage. While the final result was not yet in as of press time, the Jackets trailed Carolina 3-0 midway through the second period, so by time you're reading this, you'll probably know that they are off a loss. If they somehow came back against the Hurricanes, well, that means they aren't going to have much left in the tank for this one. After losing in Buffalo Thursday night, the Panthers are going to be the hungrier team in this one. Columbus has also lost five of the last six times its had to play in the second night of a back to back. For what it's worth, they're also just 3-12 SU their last 15 Saturday games. Friday's result won't change this one for me. I don't like Columbus at all in this spot. Play on FLORIDA AAA |