03-03-20 |
Sabres v. Jets -150 |
|
1-3 |
Win
|
100 |
6 h 56 m |
Show
|
The Jets are 10-3 the past 13 times as a home favorite. I want them going for me returning home after being idle for two days and coming off a tough 3-2 loss to Edmonton on Saturday in which they outshot the Oilers, 41-22. Buffalo is a terrible road team as evidenced by its 14-46 away mark in its past 60 away games. The Sabres' offense is heavily reliant upon Jack Eichel and he's in a scoring slump without a point in his last four games.
|
02-29-20 |
Stars +124 v. Blues |
|
3-4 |
Loss |
-100 |
7 h 57 m |
Show
|
I'll take a plus price with the Stars in revenge mode for a 5-1 home loss to the Blues on Feb. 21. Dallas is 10-4 the last 14 times as a road 'dog and 18-7 the past 25 times when facing an above .500 opponent. The Blues, by contrast, are 4-10 versus opponents with a winning mark.
|
02-28-20 |
Wild v. Blue Jackets -124 |
Top |
5-0 |
Loss |
-124 |
15 h 59 m |
Show
|
These two teams just met on Tuesday in Minnesota. The Blue Jackets were playing for the eighth time in 13 days. The Wild edged them, 5-4. Now the fatigue situation is reversed. Columbus has been idle the past two days. Minnesota just played last night rolling past the Red Wings. This marks the Wild's third game in four days and fourth matchup in six days. The Wild's track record in these spots is very bad - 2-8 the past 10 times on zero rest and 2-11 the last 13 times when playing in a 3-in-4 situation. They also have a losing record on the road. This is a crucial home matchup for the Blue Jackets, who hold a narrow two-point lead over the Hurricanes and Rangers for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
|
02-25-20 |
Panthers v. Coyotes -124 |
|
2-1 |
Loss |
-124 |
4 h 17 m |
Show
|
The Coyotes draw the Panthers at the end of their five-game, nine-day road trip. Arizona has been idle the past two days after posting an impressive home victory against Tampa Bay. The Coyotes are 10-1 the past 11 times on two days rest. The teams met last month and the Coyotes beat the Panthers, 5-2, in Florida. The Panthers are 0-5 the past five times they've been underdogs and are 1-5 during their last six visits to Arizona.
|
02-21-20 |
Predators -120 v. Blackhawks |
|
1-2 |
Loss |
-120 |
10 h 41 m |
Show
|
The Blackhawks are fade material as they look to rebuild and deal with trade rumors as the trade deadline nears. Chicago is 1-7 in its last eight games. The Blackhawks have dropped their past three home games with the latest being, 6-3, to the Rangers two days ago. After this matchup, the Blackhawks face road games against the Stars, Blues and Lightning. So they know the playoffs are not going to be reached. The Predators should be pumped as defenseman Ryan Ellis could make his return to the lineup. He's been out with a head injury. Nashville is 5-2 in its last seven road games. The Predators can take advantage of a Blackhawks defense that is giving up an average of 4.3 goals in their last six games and last-ranked power play unit that has failed to score in its last six games spanning 17 chances.
|
02-20-20 |
Jets -118 v. Senators |
|
5-1 |
Win
|
100 |
7 h 35 m |
Show
|
The Jets got better and the Senators got worse with Winnipeg picking up defenseman Dylan DeMelo from Ottawa. The trade happened just two days ago. DeMelo is eager to make an impact against his old team and the timing is right. Winnipeg has been strong as a road favorite winning 23 of the last 34 times in that role. Ottawa is 4-11 in its last 15 home contests. The Senators have given up at least three goals in seven of their last eight games.
|
02-19-20 |
Coyotes v. Stars -155 |
|
2-3 |
Win
|
100 |
11 h 55 m |
Show
|
You have to go back to 2012 to find the last time Arizona won in Dallas. The Coyotes are 1-9-1 in their past 11 games against the Stars, including losing 4-2 at home on Dec. 29. I don't see that pattern changing in this matchup. The Coyotes go to Dallas fat and happy riding a two-game winning streak with home victories against the Capitals and 2-1 over the Islanders this past Monday. The Stars are 6-1-2 this month, but coming off a 4-3 road loss to the Senators from Sunday. That was Dallas' fourth game in six days. The Stars are home now and have had two days to rest up following that defeat. Wednesday Free Play Rangers plus $1.17 at Blackhawks Face it Chicago it's not going to happen. The Blackhawks aren't going to make the playoffs. Not after going 1-6 in their last seven games. The Blackhawks return home for the first time in two weeks. They are 0-2 in their previous two home games. Chicago hosts the Predators after this matchup followed by road matchups against the Stars, Blues and Lightning. So deep down inside if they are being honest, the Blackhawks have to realize that their just completed 1-4 road swing just about destroyed their forlorn playoff hopes. The Rangers are in desperate need of a victory here, too, as they are outside the playoff picture. Unlike the Blackhawks, though, the Rangers have shown life winning four of their last five games. The lone loss came to the hot Bruins, 3-1, at home this past Sunday. This gives the Rangers amble time to regroup. New York has won its last five road games. The Rangers have been getting outstanding goalie play from Igor Shesterkin and Alexandar Georgiev. Those two have made Henrik Lundqvist almost an afterthought. The Rangers are giving up just 1.8 goals in their last five games. Only once in their last 10 games have they surrendered more than three goals. The Blackhawks rank last in the NHL in power play percentage. They were 0-for-14 in their power play opportunities during their just conclued five-game road trip. Chicago is allowing an average of four goals per game during their last five contests.
|
02-17-20 |
Capitals +120 v. Golden Knights |
|
2-3 |
Loss |
-100 |
12 h 26 m |
Show
|
It doesn't happen that often, but when it does you have to strongly consider Washington. The Capitals are a road 'dog to Las Vegas. Washington has won nine of the last 11 times (82 percent) it has been a 'dog.
Las Vegas has been playing better, but the Capitals have had the Golden Knights' number winning six of the past seven meetings. Washington also is the top road team in the NHL. The Capitals are 19-7 in their last 26 road contests. Note this is a mid-afternoon Vegas time start. That favors the East Coast Capitals and is a negative for the West Coast Golden Knights, who usually play their home games at night.
|
02-09-20 |
Ducks v. Sabres -120 |
|
3-2 |
Loss |
-120 |
10 h 27 m |
Show
|
The spot sets up well for Buffalo and the price is fair. The Sabres are 15-9-4 at home. They draw the Ducks playing their fourth road game in six days. Anaheim exerted a lot of energy in coming from a 3-1 deficit to force overtime against the Maple Leafs two days ago before losing. The Ducks have lost 38 of their last 55 road contests. They have been on the road this entire month. The Ducks will return to Southern California following this game so both concentration and tired legs could be issues for them. Anaheim also is likely to be without key defenseman Erik Gudbranson, who suffered an arm injury against the Maple Leafs. The Sabres are not going to lack motivation. They have revenge for a 5-2 road loss to the Ducks from October and were embarrassed in their last home game losing to the lowly Red Wings. Defenseman Rasmus Dahlin is back for Buffalo and Carter Hutton has been solid in net.
|
02-06-20 |
Canucks +113 v. Wild |
|
2-4 |
Loss |
-100 |
7 h 43 m |
Show
|
I see value with the Canucks, who have won 7 of their last 10 games and are 10-1 during their past 11 Western Conference games. The Wild care a bit fat and happy after nipping the Blackhawks, 3-2 in overtime, two days ago. The Canucks are the more hungry team with losses in their last two games. Vancouver has beaten the Wild four of the last five times in Minnesota.
|
01-31-20 |
Golden Knights +122 v. Hurricanes |
|
4-3 |
Win
|
122 |
4 h 58 m |
Show
|
The Golden Knights have been one of the more disappointing teams in the NHL this season. I expect the Golden Knights, though, to make a move having made a coaching change to Peter DeBoer. Neither Las Vegas nor Carolina has played since All-Star break. Both have been idle for 10 days. That rustiness puts more of a random element into this matchup and is a plus for the underdog. The extra time also has given DeBoer more of a chance to implement his coaching and style into the Golden Knights,
|
01-30-20 |
Canadiens -115 v. Sabres |
|
3-1 |
Win
|
100 |
8 h 22 m |
Show
|
The Canadiens are expected to get back Brendan Gallagher, their second-leading scorer, from injury. The Sabres are minus their No. 1 goalie, Linus Ullmark. His likely replacement is Carter Hutton, who has allowed an average of 5.6 goals in his last three games. The Canadiens fell to the Capitals, 4-2, on Monday. Prior to that loss, though, Montreal had won of four of five. Montreal also has won its last two road games.
|
01-28-20 |
Blues +109 v. Flames |
|
5-4 |
Win
|
109 |
10 h 29 m |
Show
|
The Blues played Monday following the long All-Star break. St. Louis lost to Vancouver, 3-1. The Blues, though, fired 37 shots on net. They entered that matchup having scored 3 or more goals in 12 of their last 13 games. The Flames are home, but at a disadvantage. It has been 10 days since Calgary last played. The Flames are sure to be rusty while the Blues are not. St. Louis is 6-1, too, the last seven times when playing without rest. The Blues also have defeated the Flames in four of the last five games, including blanking them, 5-0, at home on Nov. 21 when the teams last met.
|
01-27-20 |
Maple Leafs +102 v. Predators |
|
5-2 |
Win
|
102 |
9 h 43 m |
Show
|
The Maple Leafs have a winning road record. They've won five of their last six away games and are expected to get back Auston Matthews, who is tied for second in the NHL in goals scored and gives Toronto a huge spark. Nashville is not a strong home ice team. The Predators have lost 11 of their past 16 home contests. Predators goalie Pekka Rinne has a losing record in his last 20 appearances. He hasn't been in good form.
|
01-21-20 |
Penguins v. Flyers +121 |
|
0-3 |
Win
|
121 |
12 h 22 m |
Show
|
I'm attracted to the Flyers whenever I see them as a home 'dog, which is the case here. Philadelphia is 16-4-4 at home this season. The Flyers are 7-2 during their past nine home contests and have strong incentive for an embarrassing, 7-1, road loss they suffered to the Penguins earlier this season. The Penguins are fat and happy after coming from three goals down to nip the Bruins, 4-3, at home this past Sunday.
|
01-21-20 |
Golden Knights v. Bruins -145 |
|
2-3 |
Win
|
100 |
12 h 55 m |
Show
|
The Golden Knights haven't proven to be good underdogs losing 22 of the past 28 times in that role. They are in that role here traveling to Boston having lost five of their last six games. The Bruins have beaten Las Vegas in each of the last four meetings and should be highly motivated for this matchup after blowing a 3-0 road lead to the Penguins this past Sunday. The last time Boston blew a three-goal lead in a regulation game was 2011. There's a 50-50 chance the Golden Knights could be without their star goalie, Marc-Andre Fleury. He has to sit out a one-game suspension for bypassing the All-Star Game. Fleury will either sit out this game, or a game following the All-Star break. There's a huge drop from Fleury to the Golden Knights' backup goalie Malcolm Subban.
|
01-19-20 |
Jets +105 v. Blackhawks |
|
2-5 |
Loss |
-100 |
7 h 25 m |
Show
|
Spot and history set up for Winnipeg here. The Jets have beaten the Blackhawks in six of the last seven meetings. They have won during their last three visits to Chicago. Winnipeg won't lack motivation after an embarassing 7-1 home loss to the Lightning two days ago. Chicago is fat and happy returning home after sweeping all three games during its Canadian road trip, including beating the Maple Leafs, 6-2, on Saturday. The Blackhawks carry a high fatigue rating as this marks their fourth game in six days.
|
01-18-20 |
Stars -114 v. Wild |
|
0-7 |
Loss |
-114 |
9 h 41 m |
Show
|
Dallas is the superior team and in a good situational spot. That's enough to overcome laying small juice with the slightly favored Stars on the road. The Stars are 7-2 in their last nine games, but are off a surprising 4-1 home loss to the Sabres on Thursday. Dallas didn't waste any time brooding about that defeat immediately hopping a plan to come to Minneapolis where a focused effort should be forth coming. The Wild are off a 3-2 upset win against the Lightning from Thursday. Prior to that, the Wild had dropped six of seven. Dallas has won five of the last six in the series.
|
01-16-20 |
Canadiens +122 v. Flyers |
|
4-1 |
Win
|
122 |
8 h 3 m |
Show
|
Both teams were in action on Wednesday. The Canadiens were upset by the Blackhawks at home, while the Flyers stunned the Blues on the road winning in overtime. Philadelphia also defeated the Bruins in a shootout on Monday. So I see this as a good spot for the Canadiens. Montreal hasn't been playing well, but the Canadiens have a winning road mark. The Canadiens also have a huge goalie edge with Carey Price is expected to be in net after backup Charlie Lindgren played last night. The Flyers could be starting third-stringer Alex Lyon in goal. Starting goalie Carter Hart is out for the Flyers and backup Brian Elliott played last night. The Flyers also have two other key injuries with defenseman Shayne Gostibehere and forward Nolan Patrick both out.
|
01-13-20 |
Hurricanes v. Capitals -135 |
Top |
0-2 |
Win
|
100 |
10 h 36 m |
Show
|
Carolina takes to the road to play its first road game since Dec. 27. The Hurricanes are off a 5-2 homestand, winners of their last three games. But while the Hurricanes take to the highway fat and happy, the Capitals are in circle-the-wagons mode having lost two in a row. The Capitals were embarrassed, 5-1, by the Devils at home this past Saturday. Washington hasn't dropped three straight since Oct. 10. The Capitals are 27-12 (69 percent) during their last 39 games even with their losing skid. The Hurricanes dropped their past two away contests giving up a combined 13 goals in losses to the Rangers and Maple Leafs. Carolina also has lost 11 of the last 15 times when playing the Capitals on the road. Washington is expected to start Ilya Samsonsov in goal. I'm fine with that. Samonsov has been very solid going 12-2-1 with a .921 save percentage. Starting goalie Braden Holtby has just an .832 save percentage during his last six appearances.
|
01-09-20 |
Stars v. Ducks +125 |
|
3-0 |
Loss |
-100 |
10 h 26 m |
Show
|
Dallas is playing well and the Ducks are not. But I'm not buying the Stars as road chalk here. Dallas is 0-6 during its last six visits to Anaheim. The Stars also are 1-6 the past seven times they have been an away favorite. The Ducks are anxious to get back on the ice after suffering a frustrating 4-3 home loss to Columbus on Tuesday. Dallas, on the other hand, enters this matchup fat and happy having nipped the Kings, 2-1, on Wednesday night. The Stars are expected to have Ben Bishop in net. Bishop is an upper tier goalie, but he also could be rusty having last been in goal eight days ago.
|
01-05-20 |
Red Wings +180 v. Blackhawks |
|
2-4 |
Loss |
-100 |
8 h 8 m |
Show
|
The Red Wings are the worst team in the NHL with just 23 points. But the Blackhawks shouldn't be laying such a high price. So I'm going to go with the value and take a shot on Detroit. The Blackhawks have lost five of their last seven home games. They just returned from a three-game road trip that concluded late Thursday against Vancouver. Blackhawks starting goalie, Robin Lehner, was injured in that game. So backup goalie Corey Crawford is likely to be in net.
|
01-04-20 |
Jets +122 v. Wild |
|
2-3 |
Loss |
-100 |
2 h 14 m |
Show
|
Even though Minnesota is home, the wrong team is favored. The Wild are not a strong home club. The Jets are 12-7-1 on the road and have won nine of the last 13 times they were an away underdog. The Jets have dominated the Wild during the first two meetings this season outscoring them, 11-2. This includes a 6-0 victory two weeks ago.
|
12-20-19 |
Stars v. Panthers -118 |
|
4-7 |
Win
|
100 |
8 h 33 m |
Show
|
Bad timing here for the Stars. The Panthers end their nine-game homestand after this matchup. Florida has been idle since Monday after crushing Ottawa, 6-1. The Panthers are 10-7-2 at home and draw the Stars having just upset Tampa Bay, 4-3, in overtime on the road last night. It's going to be extremely tough for the Stars to be up for this game with no rest. Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky has displayed his elite talent this month with a 1.69 GAA and .953 save percentage.
|
12-19-19 |
Canadiens v. Flames -133 |
|
4-3 |
Loss |
-133 |
19 h 51 m |
Show
|
I want Calgary at home in stop-the-pain mode after two consecutive home defeats. Montreal enters this matchup off a fortunate 3-1 road win against Vancouver. The Flames were sizzling before their last two games winning seven in a row. Calgary averaged four goals a game during its win streak. But the Flames have been held to one goal in their last two games by the Hurricanes and Penguins. Has Calgary's offense shut down? No. The Flames generated 43 scoring chances during those two losses. They looked great in the first period against the Penguins on Tuesday, but then got complacent. The 4-1 loss to the Penguins is misleading because Pittsburgh scored a pair of empy net goals.
|
12-14-19 |
Bruins -116 v. Panthers |
Top |
4-2 |
Win
|
100 |
15 h 17 m |
Show
|
It's not just being in stop-the-pain mode for the Bruins, who have lost five in a row for their worst skid in four years. But also revenge motivation. The Panthers bested Boston, 5-4 in a shootout, during their earlier meeting this season on Nov. 12. The Bruins blew a 4-0 lead in that game. Note that the Bruins' last two defeats occurred by one goal each to Tampa Bay and Washington. Now Boston is stepping way down in class. The Bruins have 11 more points than the Panthers do in the standings. The price is low enough to back the superior team, which is Boston.
|
12-10-19 |
Lightning -105 v. Panthers |
|
2-1 |
Win
|
100 |
7 h 58 m |
Show
|
I want the Lightning going for me in this price range after they were embarrassed at home by the Islanders, 5-1, last night. The Lightning take to the road and that could be a good thing as they were 1-4 in their last five home games. Andrei Vasilevskiy is projected to be in net after resting against the Islanders. He's in the argument for best goalie in the league and has a .914 lifetime saver percentage against the Panthers in 13 games. Florida is fat and happy after burying the Sharks, 5-1, at home this past Sunday. The Panthers have lost 19 of the past 28 times when taking on an above .500 opponent.
|
12-06-19 |
Blackhawks v. Devils -140 |
Top |
2-1 |
Loss |
-140 |
19 h 57 m |
Show
|
Neither of these teams are good. But this spot sets up huge for New Jersey. The Blackhawks are off an improbable 4-3 overtime road win against the Bruins Thursday night. Chicago was plus $2.00. The Blackhawks nearly blew a 3-0 third period lead, but hung on. Chicago was 1-5-1 entering the matchup. The Blackhawks have a cluster injury problem on defense missing Duncan Keith and Olli Maatta. They are giving up 4.7 goals per game in their last four games. New Jersey has been idle since Tuesday. The Devils nearly upset Las Vegas in their last game, falling 4-3 at home. New Jersey outshot the Golden Knights, 35-30. The Devils shouldn't lack motivation and focus on a three-game losing streak and being home. The Blackhawks have less than 24 hours to savor pulling off one of the biggest road upsets of the season. Chicago is 2-8 the past 10 times facing a below .500 opponent and doesn't have a good road history against the Devils losing 11 of the past 15 times in New Jersey.
|
12-04-19 |
Avalanche v. Maple Leafs -120 |
|
3-1 |
Loss |
-120 |
9 h 6 m |
Show
|
First, let's get the negatives out of the way. The Avalanche are playing well. They also are getting healthier. Toronto is expected to start back-up goalie MIchael Hutchinson. He hasn't been good this season. OK, so why then back the Maple Leafs? I really want Toronto going for me at home today after the Maple Leafs were embarrassed, 6-1, on the road by the Flyers last night. Before that defeat, the Maple Leafs had turned their season around under new coach Sheldon Keefe posting a 4-1 record. The price is short enough to back the Maple Leafs in what should be a spirited effort from them. Toronto beat Colorado, 5-3, on the road Nov. 23. The Maple Leafs scored four of those goals in 15 shots against Philipp Grubauer, who is projected to be in net for the Avalanche.
|
11-25-19 |
Islanders -119 v. Ducks |
|
0-3 |
Loss |
-119 |
8 h 15 m |
Show
|
I find this to be a cheap lay price given the huge difference between these two teams. The Islanders are 15-0-2 since losing three of their first four games. The Islanders won't be taking the Ducks lightly either after their five-game win streak was snapped by the Sharks, 2-1 in overtime, this past Saturday. Anaheim is 1-8 in its last nine games. The Ducks are in a bad situational spot, too, being home for the first time since a four-game road swing that concluded Saturday. The Ducks have lost their past five home games.
|
11-19-19 |
Lightning -110 v. Blues |
|
1-3 |
Loss |
-110 |
18 h 40 m |
Show
|
The Blues hoisted up the Stanley Cup last season. That was something the Lightning thought they were going to do after finishing with the most points during the regular season. Now Tampa Bay gets to play St. Louis. It's a matchup the Lightning should be very fired-up about. Tampa Bay is the hotter and more healthy team. Steven Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov are heating up after slow starts while a number of Blues scorers have gotten cold. The Blues remain without injured Vladimir Tarasenko. St. Louis only has managed to produce 10 goals in its last six games. That won't get it done against Tampa Bay.
|
11-17-19 |
Sabres +123 v. Blackhawks |
|
1-4 |
Loss |
-100 |
6 h 24 m |
Show
|
The Blackhawks are playing better lately. But they still aren't a good team. The marketplace has bet the Blackhawks into a high enough range where I see enough value to back the Sabres. Buffalo halted a six-game winless streak with a 4-2 victory against the Senators Saturday. That should provide the Sabres with a much needed confidence boost. Chicago also is coming off a Saturday victory, beating Nashville, 7-2. The Blackhawks' victory is misleading, though. They were outshot, 41-24, by the Predators. Buffalo has been tough vs. below .500 foes winning 10 of the past 14 times in those situations.
|
11-14-19 |
Jets +144 v. Panthers |
|
4-3 |
Win
|
144 |
10 h 18 m |
Show
|
Winnipeg is 4-2 in its last six games and has a winning road record. The Jets catch the Panthers in a vulnerable spot. Florida is playing for the fourth time in six days with its last three games coming on the road. The Panthers won a pair of shootouts in their last two games, including defeating the Bruins, 5-4, on Tuesday. The Panthers were mid-sized underdogs in that game. Now they are mid-sized favorites. The Jets are a resilient team and have been getting solid goaltending from Connor Hellebuyck, who has a 2.40 GAA and.928 save percentage. Florida goalie Sergei Bobrovsky was so ineffective against the Bruins that he was pulled after giving up four goals.
|
11-07-19 |
Canadiens v. Flyers -110 |
|
2-3 |
Win
|
100 |
10 h 31 m |
Show
|
The Flyers have looked good when playing at home with a 5-2 record. Their power play and penalty killing has been much better when home. Goalie Carter Hart is coming off an outstanding performance. This is the finale of a three-game homestand for the Flyers. After this matchup the Flyers take to the road for away games against the Maple Leafs and Bruins. So Philadelphia is likely looking at two losses making this home game important. Montreal isn't a good road team and has struggled at Philadelphia losing 18 of the past 23 times there. The Canadiens are fat-and-happy having just pulled off a 5-4 home victory against the Bruins Tuesday. Carey Price didn't play well in that game, though. His play has slipped a great deal during the past couple of seasons.
|
11-01-19 |
Sabres +165 v. Capitals |
|
1-6 |
Loss |
-100 |
7 h 52 m |
Show
|
The Sabres are much improved this season. They are in a great ambush spot against Washington. Buffalo last played on Monday at home losing 3-2 in a shootout to Arizona. The well-rested Sabres draw the Capitals in Washington's first game back from a highly successful five-game road swing. The combination of a huge plus price, Sabres' improvement and the letdown spot for the Capitals makes it worth backing the underdog.
|
10-30-19 |
Canucks -114 v. Kings |
|
5-3 |
Win
|
100 |
10 h 50 m |
Show
|
The Canucks are on a 7-1-1 run. They began this run by burying the Kings, 8-2. The Canucks are on the road, but it isn't a bad spot as this is the Kings' first game back from a four-game road trip. The Kings are 2-6 int their last eight games. They've scored four goals in their last three games, while Vancouver has scored 17 goals in its last three games. The Canucks beat the Kings twice on the road last season and have won six of the past nine meetings.
|
10-29-19 |
Capitals v. Maple Leafs -120 |
|
4-3 |
Loss |
-120 |
18 h 25 m |
Show
|
The Capitals haven't been a team to step in against this month, but this is the spot and matchup to do it. The Maple Leafs are in stop-the-pain mode having gone 1-3 in their last four games, including suffering a 5-2 road loss to the Canadians this past Saturday in their previous game. Washington is concluding its five-game road trip. The Capitals have won five of their last six games, including stunning Vancouver this past Friday rallying to win, 6-5, in a shootout after trailing by four goals. Toronto has the added incentive of revenge for a 4-3 road loss to the Capitals on Oct. 16.
|
10-28-19 |
Panthers v. Canucks -115 |
Top |
2-7 |
Win
|
100 |
13 h 48 m |
Show
|
Vancouver is out to make the Stanley Cup playoffs this season having missed them the past four years. The Canucks have been more than just talk. They are 6-2 in their last eight games. The Canucks won't forget their last game - and not in a good way. Vancouver got overconfident at home against a tired Capitals team and blew a 5-1 second period lead, losing 6-5 in a shootout. That was on Friday. The Canucks had all weekend to stew about that home loss. Now the Canucks are ready to unleash their frustrations and get back on the winning ledger drawing Florida at home. The Panthers are playing well, too, in their quest to make the Stanley Cup playoffs for the first time in four seasons. Florida, however, is in a letdown spot after an impressive 6-2 road win against Edmonton on Sunday. Sergei Bobrovsky was in net for the Panthers Sunday. He's likely to sit out this matchup in favor of backup goalie Samuel Montembeault. The Canucks are 7-3-1 the past 11 times hosting the Panthers.
|
10-24-19 |
Sabres v. Rangers +111 |
|
2-6 |
Win
|
111 |
8 h 53 m |
Show
|
These teams have been going in opposite directions. But I see the Rangers bouncing back against the Sabres, a team they have beaten six of the last seven times. Buffalo is playing for the fifth time in eight days, all at different venues. The Sabres are fat and happy having just completed a home/road series sweep against the Sharks, winning each game by one goal. This is the Rangers' third of a five-game homestand. They dropped the first two games to the Canucks and Coyotes each by one goal. After this game, the Rangers host the Bruins and Lightning. So this becomes a crucial game for the Rangers.
|
10-22-19 |
Golden Knights -116 v. Blackhawks |
|
2-1 |
Win
|
100 |
19 h 34 m |
Show
|
There's a huge class difference here that makes this short road chalk price well worth it. Yes, the Golden Knights are playing without rest. But fatigue should not factor this early in the season plus Las Vegas should be highly motivated after losing, 6-2, to the Flyers in Philadelphia on Monday. Marc-Andre Fleury will be back in goal for Las Vegas. The Golden Knights went with backup goalie Oscar Dansk against the Flyers. The Golden Knights have won 12 of the last 17 times they have been a road favorite. They also are 6-0 lifetime against the Blackhawks.
|
10-18-19 |
Stars +129 v. Penguins |
|
2-4 |
Loss |
-100 |
6 h 8 m |
Show
|
Dallas is off to a very slow start going 1-7. However, all but two of these defeats have been by a single goal. The Stars are due for some good fortune and I see them getting it here against an extremely banged-up Penguins squad. The Penguins have won four in a row, the last occurring two nights ago in a 3-2 overtime victory against the Avalanche. So I like the spot for Dallas. This will be Pittsburgh's fourth game in seven days. The Penguins are missing injured Evgeni Malkin, Nick Bjugstad, Bryan Rust and Alex Galchenyuk. Despite their record, the Stars rank second defensively in fewest shots on goal and have one of the top goalies in the NHL, Ben Bishop.
|
10-17-19 |
Predators v. Coyotes +108 |
|
2-5 |
Win
|
108 |
10 h 45 m |
Show
|
Arizona has one of the hottest goalies on the planet in Darcy Kuemper. He has a .955 save percentage stopping 127 of 133 shots while emerging as an elite goalie. Kuemper last faced Nashville on Nov. 15 and made 44 saves in a 2-1 victory. Nashville ranks first in the NHL in scoring. But the Predators could be minus their leading goal scorer, Flip Forsberg. He suffered a lower body injury in Nashville's last game two days ago. The Predators upset Las Vegas, 5-2, in that game. So they could be in for a letdown. The Coyotes had a winning home record last season. This year at home they beat Las Vegas, 4-1, and lost to Boston, 1-0. Now they are stepping down in class from those two powerhouses.
|
10-16-19 |
Hurricanes v. Sharks -125 |
Top |
2-5 |
Win
|
100 |
14 h 52 m |
Show
|
San Jose began the season with four losses in a row. But the buy sign is on now for the Sharks, who have won two straight and are in a good situational spot here. Carolina is playing for the fourth time in six days. The Hurricanes defeated the Kings, 2-0, in LA last night. The Sharks have had two days of rest after defeating the Flames, 3-1, at home this past Sunday. Patrick Marleau has provided a lift for the Sharks returning to the team he spent the first 19 years of his career. The Sharks are 2-0 since Marleau rejoined them.
|
10-16-19 |
Sabres +115 v. Ducks |
|
2-5 |
Loss |
-100 |
8 h 9 m |
Show
|
The Sabres are out of the gates fast at 5-0-1 looking very much improved. Anaheim is off to a hot start, too, but I regard the Sabres as the better team certainly offensively. The spot favors the rested Sabres even though they are the visitor. This is the Ducks' first home game in 11 days and their fifth game in nine days - all at different venues. The Sabres have done well against the Ducks winning four of the last five times.
|
10-15-19 |
Red Wings +137 v. Canucks |
|
1-5 |
Loss |
-100 |
19 h 47 m |
Show
|
Detroit appears to be much improved. The Red Wings are off to a 3-2 start. They already have won road games against Nashville and Montreal. A key to the Red Wings' success is better depth. They have been getting good play from their fourth line. Vancouver is a bit fat and happy posting consecutive home wins against the Kings and Flyers in a shootout this past Saturday. The Canucks won't have starting goalie Jacob Markstrom, who is attending a family matter. He'll be replaced by Thatcher Demko, who has yet to make a start this season.
|
10-15-19 |
Lightning -134 v. Canadiens |
Top |
3-1 |
Win
|
100 |
16 h 47 m |
Show
|
I want Tampa Bay going for me in a bounce back spot after the Lightning lost, 4-2, to the previously winless Senators this past Saturday. Tampa Bay is 7-1-1 in its last nine games versus Montreal. The Canadiens are off a 6-3 victory against the Stanley Cup champion Blues this past Saturday. This marks the Canadiens' fourth game in seven days. Carey Price hasn't been an elite goalie for the past couple of seasons. He's off to a slow start this year with a 3.38 GAA. Lightning goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy is 7-1-2 lifetime against the Canadiens with a 2.16 GAA and.929 save percentage. He should be fresh since he did not play against Ottawa.
|
10-10-19 |
Golden Knights -134 v. Coyotes |
|
1-4 |
Loss |
-134 |
19 h 6 m |
Show
|
Las Vegas is much the better team. I want the Golden Knights going for me, too, after they suffered a disappointing 4-3 loss at home to the Bruins. Arizona is 0-2 on the season. The Coyotes ranked third-from-the-bottom in scoring last season. They have scored one goal this season. The Golden Knights have never lost at Arizona going 4-0 versus the Coyotes on the road, winning those games by a combined seven goals.
|
10-10-19 |
Sharks -103 v. Blackhawks |
|
5-4 |
Win
|
100 |
18 h 34 m |
Show
|
Perhaps it's a leap of faith. But I see the Sharks going all out and getting their first victory of the season here after opening with four consecutive losses. San Jose didn't have Evander Kane for its first three games. The Sharks should get a spark and some class from bringing back 40-year-old Patrick Marleau, who played with them for 19 years serving as team captain. The Sharks are stepping down in class after playing twice against Las Vegas and once against hot Anaheim and Nashville. The Blackhawks are the only team in the NHL to have played just one game so far. That game was last Friday in the Czech Republic, a 4-3 loss to Philadelphia. The Blackhawks are going to be rusty, still could be suffering from jet lag and won't have the Sharks' sense of desperation as this is just their second game of the season and first of a seven-game homestand.
|
10-09-19 |
Canadiens v. Sabres -118 |
Top |
4-5 |
Win
|
100 |
10 h 48 m |
Show
|
The Sabres are much improved especially on offense. Sparked by newcomer Marcus Johansson and rookie Victor Olofsson, the Sabres have scored 13 goals in opening the season 2-1. The spot is ripe, too, for the Sabres. They catch the Canadiens playing in their third consecutive road game and off a hugely-satisfying 6-5 victory over their long-time rival the Maple Leafs. Montreal begins a four-game homestand Thursday. So focus could be an issue for the Canadiens. Montreal also is going with backup goalie Keith Kinkaid.
|
10-05-19 |
Devils +101 v. Sabres |
|
2-7 |
Loss |
-100 |
16 h 29 m |
Show
|
The Devils are in a foul mood after blowing a 4-0 lead at home last night to the Jets in a 5-4 shootout loss. I want the Devils going for me today after that shocking defeat. The Sabres are in a different frame of mind after opening their season with a 3-1 upset road victory against the Penguins. New Jersey has too much offense for the Sabres going four lines deep and with sharpshooters Taylor Hall, Kyle Palmieri, Nico Hischier, Wayne Simmonds along with rookies Nikita Gusev and Jack Hughes, the top overall pick in this year's draft. The Sabres can't match that kind of attack. The Devils are 8-3-1 in their last 12 meetings against the Sabres, including going 2-1 last season.
|
10-04-19 |
Jets +130 v. Devils |
|
5-4 |
Win
|
130 |
9 h 10 m |
Show
|
The Devils should be much improved with the additions of P.K. Subban, Wayne Simmonds and Nikita Gusev. But it's going to take time for all these new faces to gell. This is New Jersey's opening game. The Jets have the advantage of already having played a game. They lost 6-4 on the road to the Rangers Thursday night. The Jets outshot the Rangers, 47-32. Corey Schneider is slated to be in net for New Jersey. He hasn't been good the past several seasons because of injuries. I consider him now a below average goalie. The Jets are one of the most potent scoring teams in the league especially with Patrik Laine back on board. Winnipeg is 4-0-2 in its last six meetings with New Jersey.
|
10-02-19 |
Capitals +129 v. Blues |
|
3-2 |
Win
|
129 |
24 h 49 m |
Show
|
Anytime the Capitals are an underdog my first look is going to be on them. Washington has retained its core group that helped win the Stanley Cup two seasons ago. The Capitals have had all summer to think about being drummed out of the playoffs in the first round by Carolina last year. The Capitals should be sky-high for this matchup against the defending Stanley Cup champion Blues. St. Louis is still on Cloud 9 after winning its first Stanley Cup championship in its 51-year history. The Blues will be raising their Stanley Cup banner before the game in celebration. So the Blues aren't likely to be as focused and motivated as the Capitals. Washington has enjoyed good success when playing in St. Louis winning five of the past seven times there.
|
06-09-19 |
Bruins v. Blues -110 |
|
5-1 |
Loss |
-110 |
12 h 25 m |
Show
|
St. Louis is playing better than Boston. Goalie Jordan Binnington is hot again. The Bruins' power play has gone cold. The Blues are home - and the price is right to back them. The home team has won six of the last eight times between these two teams. The Blues have been superior to the Bruins when the teams were at regular strength. Boston's key has been on special teams with its power play. But now that has gone cold failing to score the past five times spanning the last two games. Unfortunately bad officiating has played a part during these Stanley Cup playoffs. This is a random thing, but the Blues being the home team are the more likely to get a break. Binnington, who went 24-5-1 after arriving from the minors, is coming off a 38-save performance in the Blues' 2-1 road win this past Thursday in Game 5. He's allowed just three goals in the last two games.
|
06-03-19 |
Bruins v. Blues -110 |
Top |
2-4 |
Win
|
100 |
14 h 35 m |
Show
|
The Blues have been resilient all season and I expect them to be resilient here with, for all practical purposes, their season on the line trailing 2-1 to the Bruins in the Stanley Cup Finals. St. Louis might have been tight hosting their first Stanley Cup Final in 49 years. Certainly the Blues got out of control racking up too many penalties. The Bruins' deadly power play personnel took advantage coverting all four of their power play chances to defeat the Blues, 7-2, in Game 3 this past Saturday night. The key for the Blues is keeping their emotions in check and not drawing penalties. Are they capable of that against this particular opponent, who seems to really bother them? Yes, the Blues have the necessary discipline, defense and goaltending with Jordan Binnington. St. Louis was the least penalized team during the first three rounds of the postseason. Being home should help, too.
|
06-01-19 |
Bruins +105 v. Blues |
|
7-2 |
Win
|
105 |
6 h 28 m |
Show
|
The Bruins are proven road warriors and in bounce back mode after losing Game 2 to the Blues at home. Boston is 6-2 on the road during the Stanley Cup playoffs and has won its past four away contests. St. Louis is just a .500 team at home during the postseason. Tuukka Rask has been brilliant on the road for Boston. He's given up just two goals in his last four away matchups. The Bruins have the best line in Brad Marchand, Patrice Bergeron and David Pastrnak. They are overdue for a better performance, though, having produced only two points during the first two games of the series, including an empty-net goal by Marchand.
|
05-27-19 |
Blues +140 v. Bruins |
Top |
2-4 |
Loss |
-100 |
58 h 38 m |
Show
|
All the Blues do is win on the road in the playoffs. They are 7-2 this postseasona away from home. St. Louis has been idle for five days. But that's nothing compared to the Bruins, who haven't played in 10 days! That's an unbelievable long layoff time and really puts a rustiness factor into Boston's equation for this Game 1. The Blues are riding a lot of momentum and playing on house money. Few, if any, expected them to still be alive at this point. A number of sportsbooks have big jeopardy on them because of the Blues' huge future book odds at the time. St. Louis eliminated the Sharks winning the last two games of that series by a margin of 10-1. The Blues have surrendered only two goals during their last three games. Tuukka Rask has been brilliant in goal. Jordan Binnington can match him, though. The rookie is 36-13 since being called up. The randomness factor is raised due to the lengthy time between games. Given that and the Blues playing their best hockey and road prowess, I find excellent value on St. Louis to steal this Game 1.
|
05-17-19 |
Sharks v. Blues -136 |
|
1-2 |
Win
|
100 |
3 h 10 m |
Show
|
I want the Blues going for me after poor officiating cost them the last game. The Blues have been resilient all season and are the better defensive team by a wide margin with the superior goalie.
Neither team has yet to win two in a row in this evenly matched series. Now it's the Blues' turn. San Jose is 1-4 following a win. The home team has won six of the past eight times between the two teams.
|
05-16-19 |
Bruins v. Hurricanes +103 |
|
4-0 |
Loss |
-100 |
16 h 30 m |
Show
|
The Bruins hold a commanding 3-0 lead in this Eastern Conference final. But while the Bruins have been the superior team, the 3-0 series lead is somewhat misleading. The Hurricanes nearly pulled a road upset in Game 1 leading 2-1 entering the third period before falling apart. The Hurricanes outshot the Bruins, 36-31, in Game 3 but lost 2-1. Carolina has a great home record and obviously is in must-win territory. So an all-out effort from the Hurricanes should be forthcoming while the Bruins are fat and happy. The Panthers have won five of their six Stanley Cup home games and are 9-2 overall during their last 11 home contests.
|
05-11-19 |
Blues +119 v. Sharks |
|
3-6 |
Loss |
-100 |
24 h 54 m |
Show
|
The Blues have been at their finest on the road during the Stanley Cup winning five of six times. They have been idle since Tuesday while the Sharks didn't clinch their series against the Avalanche until a 3-2 Game 7 victory this past Wednesday. St. Louis is the better defensive team and has the superior goalie. I can definitely see the Blues frustrating the Sharks here and coming away with a Game 1 victory. They are a much different type of foe than the Sharks have encountered so far in the postseason. St. Louis has won seven of the last eight times as an underdog. Jordan Binnington continued his regular-season brillance into the playoffs posting a .922 save percentage during St. Louis' second-round series victory against Dallas. Binnington was 24-5-1 with five shutouts and a 1.89 GAA during the regular season. Sharks goalie Martin Jones has picked up his play lately, but isn't the equal of Binnington. The Blues are 18-8 the past 26 times versus foes with a winning record. They haven't been bothered by Pacific Division opponents either beating them seven of the past nine times.
|
05-09-19 |
Hurricanes v. Bruins -147 |
|
2-5 |
Win
|
100 |
18 h 14 m |
Show
|
The Bruins are looking like the best team in hockey. They have a lot of momentum, their top line is producing, goalie Tuukka Rask is hot and they have home ice, which means a lot against this opponent. The Hurricanes have lost during their last four visits to Boston. They also haven't played since Friday so there figures to be some rust. David Pastrnak, Brad Marchand and Patrice Bergeron give Boston maybe the best line in hockey. They've come through so far in the postseason with 16 goals and 32 points. Rask looked great in the Bruins' series victory against the Blue Jackets turning in a 1.71 GAA and .948 save percentage.
|
05-07-19 |
Stars +145 v. Blues |
|
1-2 |
Loss |
-100 |
4 h 12 m |
Show
|
The marketplace has pushed the line high enough where there is now definite value to back the underdog Stars. These teams are very even. Dallas has the superior defense and goalie Ben Bishop has played better than any goalie this season in my view. The Stars have proven themselves on the road, including winning twice in St. Louis during this series. Dallas has won eight of the last 10 times it has been a road 'dog.
|
05-06-19 |
Bruins v. Blue Jackets -119 |
|
3-0 |
Loss |
-119 |
10 h 16 m |
Show
|
I want the Blue Jackets going for me at home facing elimination in this Game 6. The Blue Jackets have been knocked out of the playoffs the past two years by the eventual Stanley Cup champion during the first round. Columbus didn't let that happen this season. The Blue Jackets swept the Lightning - the best team during the regular season - and have won eight of their last 10 home games, including going 3-1 in Stanley Cup action. The Bruins heavily rely on their top line, which has been hot. But I see John Tortorella really having his Blue Jackets clamp down on Brad Marchand, David Pastrnak and Patrice Bergeron at Nationwide Arena. Boston has had trouble at this venue losing four of the past five times.
|
05-01-19 |
Blues v. Stars -119 |
Top |
2-4 |
Win
|
100 |
11 h 40 m |
Show
|
I'm looking for a bounce back from the Stars, who lost by a goal at home in Game 3. Prior to that Game 3, the Stars had beaten the Blues four consecutive times at home. The Stars' special teams are playing well and their front line is due to produce more. I give the Stars checkmarks on defense and in goal with Ben Bishop.
|
04-29-19 |
Blues v. Stars -115 |
|
4-3 |
Loss |
-115 |
18 h 9 m |
Show
|
This is a cheap price to get the better defensive team at home. The teams split the opening two games in St. Louis. The Stars had 10 more shots on goal than the Blues in this span. I like the Stars' combination of size and speed, especially on their No. 1 line. I also like the Stars' ability to win faceoffs especially being the home team now. These are key factors. Ben Bishop and Jordan Binnington may have been the two top goalies in the league this season. Bishop has a strong playoff track record. Binnington, though, is a rooke and he wasn't that good against the Stars during the regular season with an .879 save percentage and 2.76 GAA. Dallas has dominated this series, too, winning seven of the past nine times.
|
04-27-19 |
Stars +125 v. Blues |
|
4-2 |
Win
|
125 |
17 h 2 m |
Show
|
The Stars outshot the Blues, 29-20, in Game 1 but lost by one goal. It was a rare time this season that Ben Bishop permitted a soft goal. Bishop has been the best goalie in the NHL this season in my opinion and the Stars have the second-stingiest defense in the league. Dallas also has proved itself on the road going 9-4 the past 13 times. I don't see the Blues getting the better of the Stars a second straight time. Dallas has dominated this series recently winning six of the last eight times with two of its victories versus St. Louis this season coming by three goals.
|
04-26-19 |
Avalanche +115 v. Sharks |
|
2-5 |
Loss |
-100 |
21 h 32 m |
Show
|
The Avalanche have plenty of momentum and is the more rested team. Colorado has won four in a row in eliminating the Flames. The Avalanche outscored Calgary, 17-7, in going 4-0 during the last four games. San Jose still may be in the clouds after rallying from a 3-0 third period deficit to edge the Golden Knights in overtime this past Tuesday in its Game 7 matchup. It's difficult envisioning the Sharks producing the kind of effort so soon after their super human effort against the Golden Knights after Joe Pavelski was injured. Pavelski isn't likley to play in this game.
|
04-25-19 |
Stars +136 v. Blues |
Top |
2-3 |
Loss |
-100 |
20 h 15 m |
Show
|
The Blues are vulnerable having last played on Saturday and catching the Stars off three straight victories against the Predators to close that series. Dallas has the better defense ranking second in the league. The Stars have arguably the best goalie this season, Ben Bishop, and the top line of the two teams with a No. 1 line composed of Jamie Benn, Tyler Seguin and Alexander Radulov. The Blues may hold the better depth, but Dallas is riding a lot of momentum and has proven itself on the road winning nine of its past 12 away matchups. The Stars also have defeated the Blues six of the last seven times.
|
04-22-19 |
Predators v. Stars -125 |
|
1-2 |
Win
|
100 |
19 h 53 m |
Show
|
Nashville isn't just losing to Dallas, but losing big. The Predators have been outscored 10-4 in the last two games and now must win on the road here to stay alive in the playoffs. I don't see it happening. The Stars have the second-best defense in the league, Ben Bishop is in the argument for best goalie and Dallas' top line of Tyler Seguin, Jamie Benn and Alexander Radulov is hot. Dallas has scored five goals in each of its last two games taking advantage of Pekka Rinne, who is struggling in goal for Nashville. The price is right to ride the Stars.
|
04-21-19 |
Bruins v. Maple Leafs -113 |
|
4-2 |
Loss |
-113 |
15 h 56 m |
Show
|
The Maple Leafs have the coaching, momentum and now the playoff experience to come through with a playoff series-ending victory against the Bruins. Boston got past Toronto in seven games during the playoffs last season. The Maple Leafs are just as explosive, but now are more well-rounded and playoff tested. Mike Babcock is a tremendous coach. It's the Maple Leafs' time to take that next step. The Bruins have lost in eight of their last 11 visits to Toronto. They don't have the Maple Leafs' explosiveness and are reeling from their controversial Game 5 home loss.
|
04-19-19 |
Maple Leafs +131 v. Bruins |
|
2-1 |
Win
|
131 |
6 h 39 m |
Show
|
This has been a back-and-forth series with each team rebounding with a victory following a loss. I see this pattern continuing here. The Maple Leafs lost, 6-4, at home to the Bruins on Wednesday. The Leafs were done in by not stopping Boston's power play and making stupid mistakes, which they should avoid now. The Maple Leafs are the faster and more aggressive team. They have the confidence, too, of having won a game in Boston during the series. So at this plus price, I'm going to get involved with Toronto.
|
04-17-19 |
Bruins +109 v. Maple Leafs |
|
6-4 |
Win
|
109 |
20 h 39 m |
Show
|
This series has the feel of a zig-zag type of scenario. The Bruins are down 2-1. Their top line of Patrice Bergerson, David Pastrnak and Brad Marchand haven't played well in the series. These guys are too good, though, to stay down especially given their strong history versus the Maple Leafs. I see the Bruins doing what they have to do - forechecking and slowing down the Leafs by controling the puck while getting better play from their No. 1 line - to even the series. Boston has won five of its last seven road games and is 15-5 when playing on one day's rest. Keep in mind the Maple Leafs are without suspended Nazem Kadri.
|
04-14-19 |
Jets +145 v. Blues |
|
6-3 |
Win
|
145 |
6 h 9 m |
Show
|
I'm going to take this price with the Jets, who are in dire straits after losing the first two games of the series at home. Both losses, though, were by one goal. The Jets led in both games. Winnipeg was 22-18-1 on the road during the regular season. The Jets also have beaten the Blues seven of the past eight times in St. Louis.
|
04-12-19 |
Blues v. Jets -110 |
|
4-3 |
Loss |
-110 |
22 h 58 m |
Show
|
The Jets have defeated the Blues 11 of the past 15 times and I expect them to even the series after losing 2-1 at home to St. Louis in Game 1 of this playoff series on Wednesday. The Blues have been riding hot rookie goalie Jordan Binnington. But that can only go so far. The Jets are the seventh-highest scoring team in the league. The Blues are a mediocre 15th in scoring. Only once in their last eight games have the Blues produced more than three goals in a game. The Jets' defense is better with the return of defensemen Dustin Byfuglien and Josh Morrissey. Winnipeg realizes the seriousness if it were to lose the first two games of this series at home. It certainly wouldn't shock me if the Blues win this series. But for this matchup I want the Jets going for me.
|
04-11-19 |
Maple Leafs +131 v. Bruins |
|
4-1 |
Win
|
131 |
16 h 26 m |
Show
|
The Stanley Cup playoffs opened Wednesday. One of the five matchups was in the pick range. But underdogs emerged victorious in three of the other four first-round, first-game matchups. Heavily favored Tampa Bay was one of those losers. That's a huge break for Boston. The Bruins could be vulnerable against revenge-minded Toronto here. The Maple Leafs nearly upset the Bruins in the playoffs last season losing in seven games. This time around the Maple Leafs are more experienced and have added superstar John Tavares. Toronto holds a speed and offensive edge. The pressure is on Boston, too.
|
04-10-19 |
Stars +150 v. Predators |
|
3-2 |
Win
|
150 |
19 h 1 m |
Show
|
This is a nice price to get a Stars team that has won seven of their last nine road games and is the superior defensive team. Dallas is the No. 2 defensive team in the NHL. Only one of the Stars' past 19 opponents was able to score more than three goals in a game against them. Goalie Ben Bishop enters the playoffs following a huge regular season where he set a personal single season record for shutouts and led the NHL in save percentage. The Predators have the league's worst power play.
|
04-06-19 |
Sabres v. Red Wings -113 |
|
7-1 |
Loss |
-113 |
6 h 43 m |
Show
|
The Red Wings have shown life down the stretch winning six of their last seven. The Sabres have been dreadful since early in the season going 15-41 in their last 56 games. The Sabres did halt an eight-game losing streak with a home win against the Senators in their last game. Look for the Sabres to mail this one in.
|
04-04-19 |
Jets +103 v. Avalanche |
Top |
2-3 |
Loss |
-100 |
19 h 21 m |
Show
|
The Jets are the better team and are in circle-the-wagons mode having lost four of their last five. That puts them in a tie with Nashville for the lead in the Central Division. The Jets held a closed door meeting after a 5-1 road loss to the Wild on Tuesday. I'm expecting a maximum effort from the Jets. Their defense has been upgraded with the recent return from injury of Dustin Byfuglien. The Avalanche, on the other hand, have come on to just about clinch the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. They have a four-point lead on the Coyotes with each team having two games remaining in the regular season. So a letdown could be in store for the Avalanche.
|
04-03-19 |
Flames v. Ducks +155 |
|
1-3 |
Win
|
155 |
14 h 14 m |
Show
|
Kudos to the Calgary Flames in capturing the Western Conference regular-season title. The Flames have clinched home ice for the Western Conference playoffs. Right now the Flames' priority is getting ready for the playoffs. That means getting fully healthy and rested. Calgary sat out six regulars in its last game, a victory against the Kings. I don't see the Flames being able to get away with that against the Ducks - and the underdog price is worth taking a shot on Anaheim. The Ducks have had a disappointing season. But they have been respectable lately going 9-6 in their last 15 games. They shouldn't lack motivation after losing 6-1 at Calgary this past Friday. Anaheim has absolutely dominated Calgary at home, too, winning an astounding 31 times during the past 32 times there.
|
04-01-19 |
Flames v. Kings +128 |
|
7-2 |
Loss |
-100 |
9 h 57 m |
Show
|
The Kings have shown life winning four of their last six games. But the main handicap here is a fade on the Flames. Calgary just clinched the top seed in the Western Conference with a 5-3 road victory against the Sharks last night. So the Flames are in a huge letdown spot.
|
04-01-19 |
Jets -111 v. Blackhawks |
|
4-3 |
Win
|
100 |
7 h 26 m |
Show
|
It is sinking in to the Blackhawks that they are not going to make the playoffs having gone 2-5 in their last seven games. That's demoralizing. The Jets should be motivated hitting the road after three straight home losses. The Jets are the superior team and are 3-0 versus the Blackhawks this season.
|
04-01-19 |
Maple Leafs -102 v. Islanders |
|
2-1 |
Win
|
100 |
18 h 28 m |
Show
|
The Maple Leafs should be motivated for this matchup after the Islanders embarrased them and prideful John Tavares, 6-1, at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Feb. 28. Backup Garret Sparks was in goal for Toronto in that game. Frederick Andersen is expected to start in net for the Maple Leafs in this rematch. Toronto catches the Islanders in a possible letdown spot. New York clinched a playoff spot for the first time in three season after beating the Sabres, 5-1, on Saturday.
|
03-21-19 |
Coyotes +116 v. Panthers |
|
2-4 |
Loss |
-100 |
4 h 58 m |
Show
|
The Coyotes are better than the Panthers and have been in Florida the past few days after losing, 4-1, to the Lightning on Monday. Prior to that defeat, the Coyotes had won nine of their last 12 games. They are 10-3 the past 13 times meeting a sub .500 opponent. This isn't a good spot for Florida. The Panthers just got done playing four consecutive road games. This is their first home game in a week.
|
03-19-19 |
Maple Leafs +112 v. Predators |
|
0-3 |
Loss |
-100 |
17 h 5 m |
Show
|
I want the Maple Leafs going for me here after they were embarrassed, 6-2, by the Senators this past Saturday. Toronto has had two full days to live with that humiliation and to tighten its defense. The Maple Leafs are 14-2 the past 16 times when playing on two days rest. They've also won in four of their past five visits to Nashville. The Predators are fat and happy returning to Nashville after an impressive 4-2 road win against the Sharks on Saturday. I don't think they will match the Maple Leafs' anticipated intensity level.
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03-19-19 |
Penguins +124 v. Hurricanes |
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2-3 |
Loss |
-100 |
16 h 6 m |
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I don't think the Hurricanes are as good as the Penguins. That has been proven in the standings and in past meetings. Pittsburgh is 10-3 the last 13 times taking on the Hurricanes holding them to two or fewer goals in 11 of those games. The Penguins also have defeated the Hurricanes five of the last six times in Carolina. The spot is good, too, for the Penguins. They are coming off two consecutive home losses. They have had a good rhythm when playing on one day rest winning 15 of the past 22 times in that spot.
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03-13-19 |
Rangers +109 v. Canucks |
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1-4 |
Loss |
-100 |
21 h 32 m |
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These two teams aren't good. But the Canucks are worse. Vancouver is 4-13 in its last 17 games. The Rangers are 2-7 in their last nine games. But New York has had some bad luck with six of those losses coming by one goal. Five of those defeats either occurred in overtime, or in a shootout. The Rangers have a strong road history, too, versus the Canucks winning five of the past six times in Vancouver. Overall, the Rangers have won four in a row against Vancouver.
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03-12-19 |
Bruins v. Blue Jackets +100 |
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4-7 |
Win
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100 |
7 h 32 m |
Show
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I smell a letdown from the Bruins after they lost 4-2 to the Penguins on Sunday. That was Boston's first regulation defeat since Jan. 19, a string of 19 games. The Blue Jackets haven't been playing nearly as well. But they will have a real sense of urgency to win this home contest. Newly acquired Matt Duchene and Ryan Dzingel are due to start producing and I like having Sergei Bobrovsky in net when he's hot. Bobrovsky has allowed just four goals in his last three games with save percentages of .947, .966 and .967 during this span.
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03-12-19 |
Stars -130 v. Sabres |
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2-0 |
Win
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100 |
5 h 52 m |
Show
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Money has come on Dallas and I can see why. The steam is the right side. Dallas is 4-1 in its last five games. The Stars' lone defeat during this span came to the Blackhawks, 2-1, when Chicago played one of its finest games of the season. Dallas ha permitted only three goals in its last four games. Buffalo is going the other direction. The Sabres are 2-10 in their last 12 games and won't have suspended Jake Eichel, their best player, for this matchup.
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03-10-19 |
Jets +126 v. Capitals |
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1-3 |
Loss |
-100 |
7 h 56 m |
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I'm going to take a shot on the underdog Jets, who looked great in an 8-1 road win against the Hurricanes on Friday. The Capitals are hot. So were the Hurricanes, though. Washington is riding a six-game win streak. Most of these victories were close games. The Capitals did not look particularly sharp either in beating the banged-up and slumping Devils, 3-0, on Friday. That win pushed the Capitals into first place in the Metropolitan Division. It wouldn't surprise me if the Capitals were fat and happy entering this matchup against the league's seventh-highest scoring team.
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03-08-19 |
Jets +149 v. Hurricanes |
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8-1 |
Win
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149 |
9 h 12 m |
Show
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Going with the value here. Winnipeg is the sixth-highest scoring team in the league. They are averaging four goals per game during their last four games. The Jets have won the past four times when priced in this underdog range. The Jets have enjoyed previous success when playing at Carolina winning in six of their past eight visits.
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03-07-19 |
Blues v. Kings +130 |
Top |
4-0 |
Loss |
-100 |
20 h 45 m |
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The Blues are coming off an improbable 5-4 road win against Anaheim Wednesday night scoring twice in the final 1:04 seconds to pull out the victory. That win pushed their playoff spot lead to six points and sets up a flat spot in this matchup. The Kings are rested and ready having been home for the past week. They are 2-0 versus the Blues this season and have owned St. Louis at home winning 13 of the last 16 times in LA. The Blues aren't likely to start rookie goalie sensation Jordan Binnington in net either after he played Wednesday. Jordan Allen is the probable goalie for St. Louis. The Blues are 0-2 the past two times Allen has been in net.
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03-05-19 |
Canadiens -127 v. Kings |
Top |
3-1 |
Win
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100 |
21 h 7 m |
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Montreal is 6-0 the past six times facing a foe from the Pacific Division. Look for that streak to continue here. The Canadiens are the superior team with 21 more points than the Kings. Montreal was 4-2 in its last six games before suffering a 5-1 home loss to the Penguins on Saturday. The Canadiens should be fresh and ready to begin this West Coast trip. The Kings had lost 10 in a row before defeating the erratic Blackhawks, 6-3, on Saturday. I don't know mind laying a short road price with a focused superior team off a loss against a weaker opponent that is off a satisfying home victory.
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03-03-19 |
Avalanche -127 v. Ducks |
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1-2 |
Loss |
-127 |
3 h 15 m |
Show
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Look for Colorado to rebound after a tough 4-3 road loss to San Jose. The Avalanche is 5-2 in its last seven games while averaging 4.3 goals during their past six games. The Ducks have lost their last five games. They have been held to one goal or fewer in 11 of their last 16 games. The Avalanche have won 17 of the last 25 times as road chalk.
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03-01-19 |
Capitals -105 v. Islanders |
Top |
3-1 |
Win
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100 |
16 h 18 m |
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The Capitals have a strong record in this type of matchup going 26-12 during their last 38 road games when taking on an opponent with a winning home mark. Washington will be well rested having last played on Tuesday. Not so with the Islanders. They could be emotionally spent after blasting the Maple Leafs, 6-1, in front of a sellout crowd on Thursday in John Tavares' first game versus his former team after signing with the Maple Leafs as a free agent during last summer. Despite that victory against the Leafs, the Islanders are 2-3 in their past five games. The Capitals are 8-4 in their last 12 contests. The Islanders are likely to start backup Thomas Greiss in net after starting goalie Robin Lehner played last night.
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02-23-19 |
Islanders v. Canucks +112 |
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4-0 |
Loss |
-100 |
10 h 26 m |
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I don't believe the Islanders should be favored here on the road. Vancouver is 5-8 in its last 13 games. But note the Canucks have suffered six of those eight defeats by one goal. The Islanders have given up four goals apiece in each of their last two games. The Canucks can take advantage as they have a dynamic line with newly acquire Ryan Spooner joining Elias Pettersson and Brock Boeser. The Islanders also carry a fatigue rating as this is their third game in four days - all on the road.
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02-21-19 |
Flyers +136 v. Canadiens |
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1-5 |
Loss |
-100 |
7 h 27 m |
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I see excellent value in backing the Flyers, who are 12-3 in their last 15 games with one of those defeats occurring to Tampa Bay. The Flyers have won each of their last five road contests. Rookie goalie Carter Hart has been brilliant for Philadelphia. The Flyers have won in 10 of his last 11 starts. This includes a 5-2 victory against the Canadiens in Montreal on Jan. 19. It was the fifth straight time the Flyers have defeated the Canadiens. Montreal isn't nearly as good in form as the Flyers are right now. The Canadiens are 1-4 in their last five games. They are averaging just two goals per game during their last five games.
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02-20-19 |
Blackhawks +102 v. Red Wings |
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5-4 |
Win
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102 |
18 h 42 m |
Show
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The Blackhawks are digging hard for a playoff spot winning nine of their last 11 games. The Red Wings are 2-5 in their last seven games. They are going to be sellers at the trade deadline. Chicago has been red-hot offensively averaging 4.9 goals in its last 11 games. The Blackhawks are a perfect 7-0 the past seven times taking on a sub .500 foe.
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02-17-19 |
Canadiens +120 v. Panthers |
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3-6 |
Loss |
-100 |
7 h 26 m |
Show
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Once again the Panthers are out of serious playoff contention. They are very likely to sit out the Stanley Cup playoffs for the 18th time in 21 years. I don't see the Panthers getting that motivated for this matchup after beating Calgary in a shootout at home in their last game this past Thursday. Montreal carries the higher fatigue rating, but are in circle-the-wagons mode having lost three in a row. Note, though, those losses were against far tougher competition. The Canadiens lost to the Maple Leafs in overtime at home and lost on the road to the Predators and Lightning on Saturday. This marks their fourth game in six days. However, the Canadiens are 7-1 the past eight times in a four-on-six situation. They also beat Florida, 5-1, when they last met on Jan. 15. Montreal was playing without rest in that game, too. The Canadiens are 12-5 the past 17 times taking on a below .500 opponent. It's confirmed that James Reimer will be in net for Florida. I consider him the weaker of the Panthers' two goalies. The Canadiens are likely to start backup goalie Antti Niemi. I'd rather have Carey Price in net, but this doesn't erase the play for me. I still like Montreal.
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02-16-19 |
Bruins v. Kings +130 |
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4-2 |
Loss |
-100 |
12 h 38 m |
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The Kings have short revenge for a 5-4 road overtime loss to the Bruins last Saturday. LA should be doubly motivated after losing a 4-3 shootout at home to the Canucks on Thursday. LA gave up the tying goal with 1:38 left. The Bruins had David Pastrnak, their leading goal scorer, when they defeated the Kings last week. He's out now with a thumb injury. The Kings could be getting Jeff Carter, one of their best two-way players, back for this game. Carter has missed the last five games with a lower-body injury. Note, too, the Bruins have failed to cover the past five times as a road favorite in this price range.
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02-14-19 |
Maple Leafs v. Golden Knights -120 |
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6-3 |
Loss |
-120 |
13 h 42 m |
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This isn't a fade on the Maple Leafs, who are playing well, but a belief that the Golden Knights will produce their "A" game in this spot. The Golden Knights are 16-8-3 at home this season, but they are in stop-the-pain mode after consecutive home losses to the Blue Jackets and to the Coyotes on Tuesday. This is Las Vegas' third of a four-game homestand. The Maple Leafs are fat and happy going 3-0 during the first four games of their six-game road swing. This includes a 5-2 win against the Avalanche on Tueday. Toronto lost its lone visit to Las Vegas last season falling, 6-3.
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02-14-19 |
Blues v. Coyotes +140 |
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4-0 |
Loss |
-100 |
7 h 25 m |
Show
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The Blues are getting a lot of attention being on a seven-game win streak. But don't sleep on the Coyotes here. They represent excellent value as a home 'dog in this price range. Arizona is a gutty team that has won two in a row, including upsetting Las Vegas on the road, 5-2, on Tuesday. St. Louis is in action for the fourth time in six days. The Blues are 6-16 the past 22 times in this spot. The Coyotes have beaten the Blues three straight times, including 6-1 on Dec. 1 in the first meeting of this season.
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