January NHL Thoughts and Picks

[KingsleyComan93]

*NHL: Vancouver Canucks At Florida Panthers*


It's quite obvious that former Canucks icon Luongo had the game in Vancouver, on the 8th of January, circled for a while. He was tremendous in that game, leading the Panthers to victory against his former team. Since then, however, he has been very poor. Both him and backup Montoya have not given the Panthers the goaltending they need to win games. They have lost three straight games, against Winnipeg, Colorado, and Edmonton. All of those teams are of similar quality to the Canucks. Miller has started to show some of his vezina caliber form of late, and the Canucks have won two straight games via shutout. They actually have not played very well in those games, getting heavily outshot and winning due to some shoddy goalkeeping by the opposition. They will need a better effort tonight against a Panthers side that is there for the taking. The Panthers have only scored 7 goals in a recent 0-2-2 slide at home, and I think they are going to have another difficult night against Miller. Miller has posted a 0.33 GAA in three consecutive road games. The Panthers seem to have hit a bit of a wall of late, after a great start to the season, while the Canucks have started to hit some form that may find them in a playoff spot at the end of the year. Miller is playing too well for me to pass this up. **My Pick of The Day is Vancouver Canucks to win @ 1.75**


*NHL: Carolina Hurricanes At Toronto Maple Leafs*


The Toronto Maple Leafs are finally back home after a road trip that can only be categorized as a disaster. The hapless Leafs lost four straight, and only managed to score one goal in the process. Really, they had the majority of their shots coming from the perimeter, and their goaltending was atrocious. They have lost 12 of 15 games, and have been limited to two or fewer goals in seven of their last eight games in 2015. Now, they face a Carolina squad that lacks in talent, but has been reinvigorated by the return of Jordan Staal. Toronto has not fared much better against the Hurricanes, dropping seven of the last 9, and 13 of the last 18 to the team from Carolina. I'm quite happy that we are going to see Khudobin in goal for the Hurricanes tonight, as he has been extremely solid since mid-December. I can't see a reason that would change against a Maple Leafs side that has been the definition of offensively challenged. The Leafs have a good track record at home, and their goals per game is a full goal higher than on the road, but that doesn't change the fact that they have been playing terrible hockey of late. I just can't back a team that's playing as poorly as they are. Helpfully, the Hurricanes have not surrendered a power play goal in 13 straight games, going 33 straight penalty kills. The Leafs have been winning at home due to their power play, so I'm hopeful thats negated tonight. The Hurricanes are not a great squad, but they are playing very well. When contrasted with how the Leafs are playing, I have to take Carolina here. I'm going to take the **Carolina Hurricanes to win @ 2.36**


*NHL: Columbus Blue Jackets At Minnesota Wild*


The Blue Jackets were able to end a troubling slide with a 3-1 victory at Boston in their last game. It was important for one reason: they got back to their hard working defensive style game. They had lost four straight games before, so this was an important victory to grab. Now they take on a disappointing Minnesota side that will be getting Ryan Suter back from suspension. The Wild have won two straight games, but they were against the Buffalo Sabres and Arizona Coyotes, neither of which are great opposition. Personally, I think something is wrong in Minnesota and they will, disappointingly, not be in the playoffs. Dubnyk has played well in his two starts for the Wild, but he is just an average goaltender at best. Bobrovsky has not been great this season, but he at least has that Vezina winning potential. I like everything about this Blue Jackets team. They have offensive depth, youngsters with high potential performing well, and defense that are able both offensively and defensively. If Bobrovsky gets going, they could easily be a terrible lower seed to face in the playoffs. Until I see the Wild get going again against decent opposition I'm going to fade them. You don't lose six straight games by accident. I'm going to take the **Columbus Blue Jackets to win @ 2.58**


My record

 

[KingsleyComan93]

That ended up pretty nicely.

 

[BigHurt007]

Two nice doggies barked for you
You and Sherwood been doin well
Good stuff for this forum
Was thinking about pulling the trigger on CBJ but I backed off last minute

 

[KingsleyComan93]

*NHL: Nashville Predators At Montreal Canadiens*


The Predators are now playing their third game since the loss of star goaltender Rinne, and have an opportunity to head into the all-star break with a share of the leagues best record. To do that, however, they are going to have to overcome the Montreal Canadiens and a raucous bell centre crowd. I've wagered against Hutton, the Predators stand-in goaltender in only one game since he took over starting duties, and that was because of the respect I have for him. He is a good goaltender, and people tend to overlook that when they see that Rinne is out. That being said, I did not like him on a back to back, and I don't like him tonight in Montreal. It's a tough building to play in, and his confidence can't be too high after allowing three goals in four shots last time out. The Habs have Price back in net tonight, which is always a bit of a concern since he was battling injury. Hopefully, he's been sharp in practice and will carry on his good play this year. I'm backing the Canadiens because I was impressed with their game against the Islanders, a 6-4 victory. Their defense was a little lacking, but without Price, I don't blame them for trying to outscore their opposition. The positives are that Pacioretty is absolutely rolling, and they seem to have gotten their misfiring Power Play going. **My Pick of The Day is the Montreal Canadiens to win @ 1.78**


*NHL: Pittsburgh Penguins At Philadelphia Flyers*


If the Flyers were trotting Rob Zepp out for this game I would have ignored it entirely, but they are playing Ray Emery, and now I can't help but take the Over. I just do not like Emery this year. He doesn't even seem to have the same battling attitude he usually has and instead looks absolutely resigned after every goal he lets in. I just have no confidence in him. Even if he is playing well, the second he lets in a goal he is liable to let in a few more quickly. The Flyers obviously don't have their defensive woes figured out either. They gave up 7 goals to the Islanders last time out, and three to the lowly Sabres in the game before that. They still have enough capable scorers to get a few goals themselves, and with Greiss in net for the Penguins, that is a possibility. Greiss isn't a bad goalie, but he's not able to shut the door as Fleury can on a good night. The Penguins are having issues with goals themselves. They have let in 11 goals in their last two games, which is a massive issue. In fact, the lowest amount of goals that have been counted in their last three games is seven. This is a tough game that has a decent rivalry, so I expect the effort to be high from both teams. The issue for the Flyers is that they have zero defensive structure, or really, too much talent at the back end. I think the winner is a tough one to call since the Flyers have dominated of late, but I do like the idea of goals. I'm going to take **Over 5.5 Goals @ 1.78**


*NHL: Boston Bruins At Dallas Stars*


I had high hopes for the Stars heading into the season, and so far they've disappointed me. A recent run of victories shows that they have the ability to turn things around, however. They've won three of their last four games, with their lone loss coming to the Jets in a game the Stars dominated. Their last victory was perhaps their most impressive as they travelled to Chicago and beat the Blackhawks 6-3. Seguin and Benn are leading the show, putting up some gaudy numbers of late. I expect that motivation will be even higher for Seguin as he faces the team that gave up on him. The Bruins have looked a much better side since Krejci and Chara have came back from injury. They won five straight before dropping their last contest, a 3-1 loss to Columbus. Marchand will be out of this game, the Bruins leading scorer, as he is serving the second game of a two game suspension. Really, this game comes down to how well the Stars are playing right now. Boston is a great team, but they looked poor last time out, and now are on the front half of a back to back. I've been very impressed with the Stars of late, and I think it will continue tonight. I'm going to take the **Dallas Stars to win @ 2.02**

 

[BigHurt007]

On the Phi/Pitt over as well

 

[KingsleyComan93]

*NHL: Chicago Blackhawks At Pittsburgh Penguins*


Both teams are on a back to back tonight, with the Pittsburgh Penguins fresh off of a draining game against their state rivals, the Philadelphia Flyers. The Chicago Blackhawks, meanwhile, had a rather easy game last night hosting the Arizona Coyotes. The 'Hawks ran out 6-1 victors, throwing an impressive 51 shots at the Coyotes goal. Obviously, the 'Hawks have shaken off some of the poor play they have displayed of late. They had lost 3 of their last 4, and I'm sure Coach Q let them have it. The Penguins played an overtime game against the Flyers in a bruising fight filled affair. The Penguins have lost their last three, and I'm of the opinion that its tough to get up for two big games back to back, especially when you lost the first one. The Hawks look like a team that are going to enter the all-star break on a high, while the Pens look the opposite. The Penguins failed to convert on all six power play chances last night, and they may be without Kris Letang for tonights game after a vicious check from Zac Rinaldo. I see two teams going in opposite directions, and I think the 'Hawks are the best team in the NHL. They will get the win tonight before the break. **My Pick of The Day is the Chicago Blackhawks to win @ 1.86**


*NHL: Toronto Maple Leafs At Ottawa Senators*


If Reimer was in net tonight, I probably wouldn't touch this game. While he has been quite bad this season, he did stop all 18 shots he faced in relief of Bernier last time out. Still, the Leafs have elected to put Bernier back in, and I'm going to find joy in that. Bernier gave up three goals on ten shots against the Carolina Hurricanes, and that's a concern facing the Senators tonight. Now, Ottawa are not world beaters, but they also have not lost eight of their last nine like the Leafs have. In fact, the Sens have lost three of four, but I at least thought they were competing and had a chance to win in all four games. This is more of a continuation bet on the poor form that the Leafs have been showing. I can't back them, but I can certainly back their opposition. Until the Leafs give me reason to consider them, I am going to keep taking the other team. I'm going to take the **Ottawa Senators to win @ 1.71**


*NHL: Calgary Flames At Anaheim Ducks*


The Ducks have been a great regular season team since Coach Boudreau has taken over. I expect them to finish strongly heading into a deserved break. They are taking on a Flames squad that is surprisingly hot. The Flames are on the final game of a difficult road trip that has seen them go perfect. They have beaten the Canucks, Coyotes, Kings and Sharks, and now face the league leading Ducks. Goalie Ortio has posted a minuscule 1.23 GAA over that time, but now face one of the best offences in the league. The thing about the Ducks is that they have scorers on every line, and I just don't see how the Flames are going to keep up when the Ducks have last change. Want proof of how poorly the Flames do in Anaheim? Well, an Anaheim victory today would be the *20th straight loss, in Anaheim, for the Flames*. That is some sort of curse. The Ducks can win close games, blowouts, high scoring games, or grind out victories. Either way, the Flames road trip has already been a success, but that success is not going to continue tonight. I'm going to take the **Anaheim Ducks to win in regulation @ 1.80**

 

[Feddz]

just FYI Reimer is actually playing tonight. Thanks for posting your thoughts and BOL

 

[KingsleyComan93]

Thanks man, yeah I saw that after the play was written and posted. Still, it worked out pretty well, so I'm happy

 

[KingsleyComan93]

*NHL: Washington Capitals At Columbus Blue Jackets*


The Washington Capitals got away from the type of hockey that coach Trotz would like them to play. Perhaps it was a fallback to past habits, but the Capitals conceded 3, 4, and 4 goals in their last three games and lost all three. Coach Trotz likes his teams' to play defensively sound hockey, and what they displayed before the break was not that. Goaltender Holtby was not playing up to the standard he has shown this year, but he is the definition of a battler. A lot of this bet hinges on him fixing his mistakes over the break, but he is one of my favourite goalies mentally because of how resilient he is. I'm confident he will have a much better game tonight. It helps that they are facing a Blue Jackets side that has been a little impotent at home of late. The Jackets have not scored more than 2 goals in their last three home games, and were shutout in their last game before the break. In fact, they rank near the bottom of the league with only a 2.39 Goals per game average at Nationwide Arena. They've lost Bobrovsky to injury, and will have to rely on rookie Forsberg and McElhinney to handle the goaltending load. McElhinney is capable of a good game every now and then, but he also has faltered historically, when asked to be a starter. Ovechkin has started to heat up of late and will look to take advantage of the shaky goaltending situation. He has scored five goals in his last three games, and picked up five points in his first two games after the Olympic break last year. I hate this matchup for the Blue Jackets, and think they are going to have a really tough time tonight. **My Pick of The Day is the Washington Capitals to win in regulation @ 2.09**



*NHL: New York Rangers At New York Islanders*


The second and sixth placed teams in the Eastern Conference meet tonight in Nassau. The Islanders, second in the conference, won eight of eleven before the All-Star break and have posted a 16-4-0 record at home. The Rangers are also one of the NHL's hottest teams, going on a 16-3-0 run before the break. I'm going to side with the Rangers for a few reasons tonight, one of them being that Kyle Okposo is going to be out for a long-time due to an upper body injury. Visnovsky is expected to come off the I.R., but there isn't a good substitute for Okposo in the first line. He is the second leading scorer for the Islanders, but now Tavares will have to play without the second part of the Islanders star duo. Grabovski may come off the IR tonight to play on the line with Tavares and Bailey, but it's still going to take some time to create chemistry. Rarely is it an instantaneous thing. Helpfully, the Rangers are likely to start Lundqvist, and the man has gone 14-2-0 in his last 16, posting an otherworldly 1.71 GAA. In the Nassau Coliseum, he has won his last four with a 0.99 GAA. Rust after the break is certainly a worry, but the loss on the first line of the Islanders gives me confidence. I should also note that this game may be postponed due to the snowstorm bombarding the East Coast. I'm going to take the **New York Rangers to win @ 2.08**


*NHL: Winnipeg Jets At Pittsburgh Penguins*


The Winnipeg Jets have a massive opportunity tonight to grab a win in Pittsburgh. It's likely that the Pens will be without at least two, and possibly all three, of their leading scorers. Crosby and Malkin are likely to be out after having to sit out the All-Star break with lower body injuries. Letang suffered a concussion pre-break, and was cleared on Monday, but will still have to go through some more testing before he is declared ready. Additionally, it would not surprise me to see the Pens coaching staff give him an extra day against a Jets team that is quite physical. The Jets will also be facing backup Thomas Greiss in goal for the Penguins. The Jets are buoyed by the return of Perrault who has been an offensive catalyst before he suffered an injury that cost him two games. I'm extremely hopeful that the Jets will start Hutchinson in net as I do not trust Pavelec at all, but even if he is in net, the Jets still have the advantage due to the Penguins missings. The Penguins have lost their last four games, so they aren't heading into this one with even a semblance of momentum. The Jets are in the heart of the West playoff race, received Trouba back to solidify their defensive corps in the last game before the break, and need to take advantage of the Penguins situation. I'm going to take the **Winnipeg Jets to win @ 1.99**

 

[KingsleyComan93]

*NHL: Detroit Red Wings At Tampa Bay Lightning*


Even though they are without Jimmy Howard, Detroit has just kept on winning. They've won six straight games, scoring a minimum of 3 goals in each game. These victories have come in spite of the inconsistent play of goaltender Mrazek. While he started quite well when asked to take on the starting role, he has struggled of late. Mrazek has surrendered 11 goals in his last three games, with a 4.76 GAA. As you can see, the Red Wings have had to rely on their offense stepping up. They've done exactly that, as they've scored 4.33 goals per game since January 13. The Red Wings have been scoring goals for fun lately, but have been letting in almost as many themselves. The Lightning are a great offensive team, but Stamkos and Johnson have been on a bit of a skid recently. A game against Mrazek may be just the tonic they need. Detroit's been playing a bit of a run and gun style of late, and that should fit the Lightning perfectly. I'm going to make this my Pick of The Day and take **Over 5.5 Goals @ 2.03**



*NHL: Boston Bruins At New York Islanders*


First things first, I'm the realest. Okay, sorry, that song was stuck in my head. Probably because I just thought that it's time to do write-ups and this is the first one I'm doing. I went against the New York Islanders last time out and backed the Rangers, and the Islanders beat them 4-1 to spite me. I've been a massive backer of the Islanders this season, and I've now learned my lesson. The Islanders did very well in forcing the Rangers into mistakes, but I'm not a fan of how many shots they allowed. Yes, many were from the outside, but 41 shots against is a worry. Halak is a high volume goalie in that he plays better when he is faced with 30+ than sub 20. The Islanders recovered from the loss of Okposo on the first line, and fill in Grabovski even notched a goal. That's a great sign. They have a very mobile defensive unit, depth up front, and the return of Visnovsky adds to an already potent Power Play. The main reason I'm taking this bet, however, is because Boston has now not played for 8 days. Their last game before the break was on the 21st, and they have not yet had a game since the break. They've had a few days of practice, which is great, but there is nothing like a game to shake off the rust. 8 days is also an unusually long time in the NHL. Both teams should be desperate for a victory tonight. The Bruins are precariously in the second Wild Card playoff spot, and the Islanders will want to retain their grip on 1st in the Eastern Conference. Helpfully, Halak has a great recent record overall, and against Boston specifically. He has won four straight meetings against the Bruins, with a lifetime record of 8-3-0 and a 1.86 GAA. He has posted a 14-1-0 record in his last 15 home games, with a 1.96 GAA during that stretch. Simply, the Islanders have gotten it done at home and the Bruins have to fight a massive layoff. I'm going to take the **New York Islanders to win @ 1.80**


*NHL: Montreal Canadiens At New York Rangers*


The Rangers played a decent game on Tuesday against the Islanders, but ultimately a few careless mistakes cost them as they suffered a 4-1 defeat. The four goals the Islanders scored was the highest opposition output against the Rangers in nearly two months. That's how well the Rangers have been playing defensively. Lundqvist has gone 14-2-0 during this time, with a 1.71 GAA before allowing the four goals against the Islanders on 38 shots. The Rangers will have to bounce back tonight against the Canadiens, who are amongst the Eastern Conference elite. There is some curious stats surrounding this matchup that should give any Rangers' backers confidence, however. Carey Price's career record at MSG is 1-4-0 with a 3.98 GAA. Similarly, Lundqvist is terrible in Montreal, but has posted a 1.95 GAA against the Canadiens in New York. Montreal won their last game 3-2 against Dallas, but they were heavily outshot 42-26. I don't really give much weight to shot totals, but a discrepancy like that is always worrying. The Rangers have done a good job of bouncing back, and I liked the effort they put forth against the Islanders while not liking what the Canadiens did against Dallas. I'm going to take Lundqvist and the Rangers here. My pick is the **New York Rangers to win @ 1.72**


*NHL: Winnipeg Jets At Philadelphia Flyers*


Flyers fans have to be grateful that Steve Mason is back from his latest injury. Mason also dealt with a bout of the flu over the weekend, but surprisingly played a lot on Tuesday against Arizona. Still, the backup needs to be ready when Emery is in the goal. Emery let in two goals on four shots, so Mason got in quickly against the Coyotes. Mason made 22 saves on 23 shots and stopped all three of the Coyotes' shootout attempts. He's probably not back to 100%, but he has been a very good goaltender for the Flyers. Helpfully, he's been hot of late, going 3-0-0 with a 1.25 GAA in his last four. He's been even better against the Jets with a 3-0-1 record and a 0.91 GAAThe Jets missed a massive opportunity on Tuesday against the Penguins, as they faced a Pittsburgh squad without Crosby or Malkin. The Jets', on the back of Pavelec's horrific goaltending, suffered a 5-3 setback. The Jets aren't going to make the same mistake they did on Tuesday with Pavelec, and instead they will have Hutchinson in net. Hutchinson has been very solid all year, and is a lot more fundamentally sound when compared with Pavelec. The Flyers have kind of revamped their game in the last bit. I think coach Berube realized they probably aren't going to make the playoffs, and now they are a lot more offensive, which I think fits them better. This is easily exemplified when you see the icetime that Del Zotto has gotten of late. He's been way over 20 minutes of late, and has been producing offensively. He's the definition of an offensive defenseman as he can create, but also is prone to defensive lapses. Their Power Play has started to click, and they've scored at least three goals in four straight games, going 3-1-0 during that time. I expect this to be a very physical game, but one that the home team eventually wins. I'm going to take the **Philadelphia Flyers to win @ 2.07**


*NHL: Anaheim Ducks At San Jose Sharks*


The Ducks just keep rolling. A win tonight would give the Ducks seven straight victories for the third time this season. I was worried that they may struggle coming out of the break, but they shutout the Canucks 4-0 and limited them to only 17 shots on goal. Simply, it was a dominant performance. The Ducks have Perry back, and are getting great production from throughout their lineup. This is the healthiest they've been in sometime. They are going to have to bring their best effort tonight, and I'm sure they will have a point to prove against their Pacific Division rivals as they've lost 6 straight in San Jose. Likely, the Sharks will have Niemi in net. He has struggled of late, going 6-6-2 and allowing 2.92 GAA. If he's planning on letting in three against the Ducks, then the Sharks are going to struggle. I like the Ducks personnel more than the Sharks in every department. As long as they stay disciplined and show some of the same form they had against the Canucks, then the Ducks should win. I'm going to take the **Anaheim Ducks to win @ 1.94**

 

[KingsleyComan93]

Since the All-Star break, I've bet two out of the three days. None have been good. I was on a great little run before the break, but now things are a little slower. I'm hoping that we can use tonight to kickstart a good run into the weekend. I'm a big fan of tonight's card.


*NHL: Nashville Predators At Colorado Avalanche*


These two teams met right out of the All-Star break, with the Predators defending their impressive home record to the tune of a 4-3 victory. They dominated the Avalanche, but Hutton's poor goaltending kept giving Colorado a chance. The Predators come into Colorado after last night's disappointing 5-4 shootout loss to St. Louis. Hutton stopped 31/35 shots, which isn't terrible, but last time he played a back to back he was brutal. On January 17, in the second game of a back to back, he let in three goals on four shots. So, I'm not really sure if they are going to give Hutton another opportunity tonight on the back to back, but I don't have a lot of confidence in backup Mazanec either. Rinne is nearing a return, but the Predators are going to have to try and stay at the top of the Central Division without him for a while longer. They were buoyed by the return of Mike Fisher last night, but the second game returning from injury is always a little tougher. The first game you always have some adrenaline, but the second one is where not quite being in game shape can be an issue. Colorado have been off since the game against Nashville on the 27th, so they've had ample time to fix what went wrong. Varlamov is a very streaky goalie, but he has been poor more often than not this year. He's played very well at home of late, going 6-0-1 with a 2.08 GAA, but he still lets in a couple goals every game. The Avalanche are a very quick team, with good depth, so they match up pretty well against the Predators. However, they are missing Erik Johnson on defense, and I expect the Predators to be able to score a couple goals here tonight. I'm going to have two plays on this game, both of which I quite like. I think the Avalanche will win this game as I just can't trust Hutton or Mazanec on a back to back. They just aren't ready yet. Either way, there's going to be some goals. **My Pick of the Day is Over 5.5 Goals @ 2.10**. I'm also going to take **Colorado Avalanche to win @ 1.84**




*NHL: Pittsburgh Penguins At New Jersey Devils*


The Pittsburgh Penguins are playing their third game in four nights after the All-Star Break. I promise that some fatigue is setting in as they are not in optimal shape. They will still be without Malkin tonight, so they are going to have players playing more than they usually would. They beat the Jets 5-3 in their first game after the break, but much of that was due to Pavelec being in goal. They were shut out in the next game against Holtby and the Capitals 4-0. Truthfully, they were heavily outplayed in that game. The Penguins have only averaged 2.56 Goals per game in their last 16, so that could be an issue tonight against Corey Schneider, who has posted a 1.16 GAA in his last five starts at home. I could elaborate further, but my reasoning behind this pick basically comes down to that. The Devils are not a high scoring team, and they aren't set up to be. They have a goalie who is playing extremely well and is capable of maintaining a high standard. They are facing a Penguins side who are missing one of their best players, and are out of rhythm. There's a reason the Pens have lost 11 of their last 16. They just aren't in sync. I'm not going to pick a winner although I lean Devils, but I do quite like the under. I'm going to take **Under 5 Goals @ 1.82**


*NHL: St. Louis Blues At Carolina Hurricanes*


It's not at all surprising that the Blues are one of the NHL's hottest teams. It may be a little more surprising that the Hurricanes are as well. The Blues have managed a 8-0-1 run, while posting an otherworldly 4.44 Goals per game. The Hurricanes have gone 7-2-1 in their last 10, which coincides nicely with the return of Jordan Staal. I've watched a couple Hurricanes games this season, and they actually are playing extremely solid hockey. I watched the Blues take on the Preds last night, and although they won, I thought they were quite poor. They are throwing Jake Allen out in net tonight, and he usually gets the games against the NHL's lesser teams. It's on a back to back, so I understand, but if the Blues think this new and improved version of the Hurricanes belongs on that list of lesser teams, well, they will be in for a surprise. Khudobin is going to be in the Hurricanes net tonight, and wow has he been hot. Khudobin has won six straight games, posting a 1.44 GAA. The Blues are certainly the better of the two teams, but they played poorly last night, are on a back to back, and are playing their goalie who has not been playing well lately. The Hurricanes, on the other hand, are playing fundamentally sound hockey and are getting some outstanding goaltending. I'm taking the home team at positive odds every time. I'm taking the **Carolina Hurricanes to win @ 2.10**


*NHL: Chicago Blackhawks At Anaheim Ducks*


I got burned backing the Ducks last night, but truthfully, I was a victim of the timing of my writeups. All signs pointed towards Andersen getting the start at goal, but the Ducks ended up playing Bryzgalov. If I had known Bryzgalov was getting the start, I would never have backed the Ducks. He's not as bad as his stats indicate, but the team just does not play well in front of him. The Ducks let in 5 goals in the second period last night against San Jose and lost 6-3 ultimately. This will be a great measuring stick game for both teams, but I favour the home side, and here is why. The 'Hawks just aren't playing the dominating hockey they are capable of right now. In a playoff series between these two sides I'd back the 'Hawks. But in this situation, I like the Ducks. Chicago has only gone 5-6-0 so far in January, and now face a team that has won 11 of their last 13 games at home, all the while outscoring their opposition 19-8 in the last four at home. The Ducks have confirmed Andersen in net for tonight, and he shutout the Canucks in his last game. He is playing very good hockey. He was in for the third period last night and the Sharks did not get one by him. The 'Hawks are going to put Crawford in net, and he has dropped three of his last four games posting a 3.49 GAA. Against a team that is as pissed off as the Ducks are about last night's game, that spells trouble. The Ducks are getting the better goaltending, are motivated, and are rolling at home. I like them to bet the 'Hawks. I'm taking **Anaheim Ducks to win @ 1.95**

 

[he_dblhockeystx]

Ducks did you dirty quack to back .. Your write ups are stellar bro, very informative, i enjoy readin what you got to say.. You'll go on another one of them bangin runs soon!

Dips

 

[KingsleyComan93]

thanks Davey, I needed to take a few days off there as the post ASB was giving me headaches!

 

[KingsleyComan93]

*NHL: Arizona Coyotes At Columbus Blue Jackets*


I want to talk about the starting goalies for both sides for a bit. Mike Smith is going in goal for Arizona, and he has been the picture of mediocrity this year. In his last four games he has let in 5, 3, 1, and 6 goals in those games. He used to be a vezina caliber goalie, but this year he has fallen apart. Columbus will be throwing rookie goalie Anton Forsberg out tonight. He struggled in his two appearances so far, with a 5.32 GAA. That alone should tell you where I'm going with this bet. I think there will be goals. Columbus has not been finding the back of the net with regularity lately, but I expect them to be a desperate team. They have lost three of their last four, with their lone recent victory coming in their only home game, a 4-3 victory over the Capitals. Columbus aren't a team with great offensive power, so being at home and having the ability to dictate the line match-ups is a massive advantage for them. The Coyotes played very well in their last game, a 3-2 victory over the Canadiens. The Coyotes came back from two nothing down and were deserved 3-2 victors. They are playing with freedom as their management has given up on the season. The Coyotes are playing for pride now, which can be a dangerous thing, but also allows them a sense of freedom. I think the Blue Jackets will be the likely victors, but would not be surprised by the Coyotes snatching a win. Still, both of these teams will have opportunities to score. I'm going to make my **Pick of The Day Over 5.5 Goals @ 2.07**


*NHL: Florida Panthers At New York Islanders*


The Islanders managed to win their first game after losing Kyle Okposo to injury, but they have lost the last two. They have an opportunity to get back on the winning track against the Panthers, who are throwing ex-Islander Al Montoya in net tonight. Montoya has only made three appearances in the last month, letting in 5 goals on 30 shots, four goals on 11 shots, and making 10 saves in a relief appearance. He is not a good goaltender. The Panthers played last night and were in a tight game until the Rangers ran out 6-3 victors in the third period. They aren't very deep and are very young. They have a lot of potential, but I think they will struggle on a back to back with Montoya in net. Helpfully, Halak, the Islanders number one goaltender has a personal 1.18 GAA in five game win streak against the Panthers. I think the relentless forecheck of the Islanders is going to cause Florida some major problems here tonight. The Islanders have to put their foot in the gas and win this game, or risk slipping back into a fight for the division lead. They are the better squad by some margin, and have a much better goaltender. They are also rested compared to Florida. I'm going to take the **New York Islanders to win in regulation @ 1.75**


*NHL: Los Angeles Kings At Washington Capitals*


The Kings may have enjoyed their deserved rendezvous with President Obama to celebrate their Stanley Cup triumph, but they are in for a tough game tonight. After a brief hiatus in solid play, Capitals goaltender Holtby has stopped 56/57 shots he has faced. He is back to being one of the better goalies on the season. The Kings have lost five of their last six and are in great danger of not making the playoffs. They have played well in their last two games, but still, one win in six is not good. The Capitals themselves have gone on a massive slide. They have only one win in their last 7. Helpfully, Ovechkin has started to show some of his Hart worthy form. The Russian sniper has nine goals in his last seven games, and that type of form is what can separate these two sides. Both are very solidly built teams, but the Capitals have a goalie who is playing better, and the star players that are playing well. Personally, I think this is going to be a low scoring game. Quick, the Kings goalie, struggled early in the year, but he has started to turn things around of late. I'm going to have two plays on this game: **Washington Capitals to win @ 1.81** AND **Under 5.5 Goals @ 1.65**


*NHL: Ottawa Senators At New Jersey Devils*


Oh man, I can't believe I'm going to do this. I'm going to back the horrid New Jersey Devils to win tonight. I've watched their last few games, and while they are still a bad team, they are getting otherworldly goaltending from Corey Schneider. As a result, they have won three of their last four, with the opposition only scoring two goals in one of those games, and only one in the rest. The Senators are throwing out Robin Lehner tonight, and he is 0-4-1 in his last five with a 4.17 GAA in that stretch. Now, the Devils aren't the type of team that are going to be able to score a bunch of goals, but they can get a few. They are not getting the puck to the opposition net enough, and have only averaged 20.7 shots on the opposition net in their last 7 despite getting points in 6 of those 7 games. That's just another testament to how well Schneider is playing. I'm not going to go into these two teams too much. Simply, Ottawa is much better, and play a better system. New Jersey are just running out the rest of the year, but winning games breeds confidence. I'm sure the Devils players are a little more motivated to win tonight then they were at other parts of the season. Players love to win, simple. With Schneider playing as well as he is, I'm going to back him until he gives me a reason not to. I'm going to take the **New Jersey Devils to win @ 1.81**


*NHL: Winnipeg Jets At Vancouver Canucks*


This one comes down to a simple matchup. The Jets are throwing Pavelec out and the Canucks are countering with Lack. When you take into account the style of game the Jets play, well, this one will have goals. I've written ad nauseum about how Pavelec is one of the most inconsistent goalies I've ever seen. He can look like an elite goaltender and barely AHL quality within a 10 minute span more often than anyone I've ever seen. Lack has not played a minute since January 13. That seems like a massive break for a goaltender, who often needs to stay in rhythm in order to play well. Even at the best of times, Lack is not a great NHL goalie. He can be good enough to win with, but he's not great. The Canucks have lost three of four during their six game homestand, and have given up four goals in all three losses. The Jets have given up 5 goals in their last four games. They play a highly physical style which leads to a ton of Power Plays, which I expect the finesse players such as Vrbata and Sedin twins to feast on. However, the Jets also create many chances during a game. The Canucks are already leaking goals, and with Lack in goal, I don't see that stopping. I'm going to take **Over 5 Goals @ 1.75**

 

[Salsantorre]

Good point on the Blue Jacket game. Like it.

 

[KingsleyComan93]

*NHL: New York Islanders At Philadelphia Flyers*


This is a matchup of two teams heading in opposite directions. The Islanders have been one of the sides competing for the Eastern Conference lead, but the loss of Kyle Okposo has hit them hard. The Islanders have lost three straight games, by scores of 4-2, 4-1, and 5-2. They are having trouble scoring, and are giving up goals at an alarming rate. The Flyers woes have changed since Steve Mason has made his return from injury. Mason has helped lead the Flyers to four straight wins, including a 30 save shutout in his last game. Both of these are very physical sides, but the recent momentum is with Philadelphia in both the goaltending department and the form charts. The biggest mismatch that I expect Philadelphia to capitalize on, however, is the Power Play. The Flyers have a lethal Power Play, especially at home, and they are facing an Islanders squad that boast the league's worst Penalty Kill, operating at only 72.4%. I think this will be a physical game with power play chances for both sides. I think the Flyers have a decided edge here. The Flyers have also had four days break leading up to this game, and no a win is necessary to keep them in with a shout to make the playoffs. It's unlikely they make it, but a big winning streak will give them a shot. Until the Islanders turn it around, I just can't back them. I'm going to take the **Philadelphia Flyers to win @ 2.08**. I also expect this to be a relatively low scoring game, with both goaltenders playing well and the Flyers knowing they can't afford a track meet game. The Flyers need a win and that requires sound defensive hockey. I'm also going to take **Under 5.5 Goals @ 1.87**


*NHL: Anaheim Ducks At Nashville Predators*


The Predators will be quite happy with how they have played without Rinne. Now, however, the star goaltender is returning. Rinne will be Nashville's starting goalie tonight. I'm always a little worried about a goalie making a return after a long layoff and Rinne, as good as he is, is no different. These two sides are leading the league for points, so both will be eager for the win. Nashville have won 9 straight home games, so it's tough to bet against them here. They will be in tough though: Anaheim has won the last four games in Nashville, and six of seven between the two sides. They have their top line rolling again, with Perry notching two goals and getting the assist on Getzlaf's game winner against the Hurricanes. There is a bit of animosity between these two sides, leading back to the recent playoff series that the Predators won between the two teams. The Ducks have looked very susceptible defensively, and seem to be making another defensive change tonight with Lovejoy making way for Brewer. Brewer is going to be paired with Fowler tonight, and I'm not a fan of that matchup. Andersen has not been stellar in net in recent games, and has actually given up four goals in each of his last two starts. I wouldn't be surprised to see that trend continue against a relentless Nashville side that has a ton of depth. The Ducks have the top end skill, and Nashville has the ability to take advantage of a lacklustre Ducks D. Rinne is coming off a big layoff, and Andersen isn't playing great. This points to goals. I'm going to take **Over 5.5 Goals @ 2.18**


*NHL: Tampa Bay Lightning At Dallas Stars*


This game for me is a very interesting matchup. We all know that Tampa is a good team, but Dallas is one with a ton of potential. They've really improved their play of late and have managed interlace some very good games with some losses. That being said, they've played well in their losses as well. The Lightning have struggled on the road of late, and have lost four straight. Their road record is 11-11-4 to this point. Bishop will not be in goal, and the Lightning will turn to talented rookie Vasilevskiy. The youngster has been extremely impressive in his four appearances this year, and has three wins to show for his efforts. These are the two leading scoring teams in the league, so both goalies are going to have to be sharp. It's a tough game, but I've been very impressed with Dallas of late and think they are going to turn things around here and go on a run. They have depth throughout, and will have an opportunity against Vasilevskiy who has not been in the NHL for a while. I'm going to take **Dallas Stars to win @ 1.92**


*NHL: Carolina Hurricanes At Arizona Coyotes*


The Hurricanes were one of the NHL's hottest teams for a stretch in January, but have run into a tough schedule of late. They've faced three of the NHL's better teams in St. Louis. New York Rangers, and Anaheim, and have been left with a three game losing streak. The Coyotes have won three of their last four and have looked very good in their last two games. As you can probably tell, I'm a big believer in teams looking good in recent games. The Hurricanes basically gave up when the Anaheim Ducks turned up the heat in their last outing. The 'Canes were up 4-2, but backed off and played very tentatively, before succumbing to a 5-4 defeat. I've watched enough Hurricanes games of late to see that they have these defensive lapses often. They are a good cycling side offensively, but they give up a ton of odd man rushes. The Coyotes do not have nearly the same firepower as the Ducks, but they are working extremely hard, and are playing more of a team game then they have at any other point in the season. They were finally blocking shots and playing like a Tippet coached side. I'm going to take the **Arizona Coyotes to win @ 1.95**


*NHL: Detroit Red Wings At Colorado Avalanche*


I just don't like this matchup for the Wings. They are a very good side and I'm excited to see them compete in the playoffs, but they, like most teams, struggle with speed. The Avalanche have speed in spades. The Wings have won seven of eight and come into this game on four days rest, so my play is certainly not against their form. Helpfully, Avs starter Varlamov has been splendid in his last bunch of games. He has gone 7-2-2 in his last 11, with only 1.98 GAA. Looking at Colorado's recent results, the games they've lost they've played decently well in, and they've won some good games too. I've watched them a bit recently, and they are generating a ton of chances off the rush. They just need Duchene to find his feet a little bit. I expect the Avalanche to have some momentum after coming back to beat the Stars 3-2 last time out. It was a bit of a throwback to their heroics of last year. There's not much to say about this game from my angle, as I've stated, this is mostly a matchup play for me. I'm going to take the **Colorado Avalanche to win @ 2.06**

 

[BigHurt007]

Good luck with your plays tonight sir
On Flyers as well

 

[KingsleyComan93]

*NHL: Anaheim Ducks At Washington Capitals*

There are two uncertainties regarding the Anaheim Ducks tonight. First, their starting goaltender is unclear. Andersen played extremely well last night, but it was a 44 save effort and I can't think the Ducks are going to throw him out again. Even if they do, he's not the best on back to backs. The Ducks other option is to play Bryzgalov. Bryz is not a good NHL level goalie, but I also don't think he's that bad either. For some reason, however, every game that he is in the goal the Ducks start to play terrible team defense and give up many odd man rushes. The Capitals are getting a ton of production out of their two stars, Ovechkin and Backstrom of late. They are playing goaltender Philipp Grubauer in goal tonight. He has had some good showings in the NHL last year, and has decent stats in the AHL so far this season, but he has not played in the NHL at all this season. That's always a worry for me. Coach Boudreau is coming back to Washington to face his former team, and I think it's a toss up if its an enjoyable trip. I like the Ducks and think they can beat the Caps, but if Getzlaf is out again, I think that's too much to overcome on successive nights. Either way, the potential goaltending matchups and the firepower on both sides makes me confident there are going to be some goals tonight. I'm going to make my **Pick of The Day Over 5.5 Goals @ 2.05**


*NHL: Toronto Maple Leafs At New Jersey Devils*


The Maple Leafs are playing for a franchise record tonight. Another loss will establish a new franchise record losing streak, which will stretch to eleven. The Leafs offense has been particularly poor, averaging a goal per game during the stretch, and going 2 for 31 on the Power Play. The Devils, on the other hand, have won three of their last four games. They have gotten absolutely phenomenal goaltending from Corey Schneider, who boasts a 6-1-1 record, with a 1.78 GAA in his last 8 starts. Against a Leafs squad thats having real trouble scoring, you have to imagine he can put up a low number again. The Leafs at least showed some signs of life last game against the Predators before losing 4-3. Still, I thought they played decently well, save for the turnovers in the neutral zone that turn into odd man rushes. I expect them to have some more joy tonight against a Devils side thats averaging less that 16 shots per game in their last three. That's just not good enough. They are facing a desperate side tonight, and I really don't think that will get it done. I'm going to have two plays on tonights game. My favourite is **Under 5 Goals @ 2.00**. I'm also going to back the Leafs to end their streak tonight. I'm taking the **Toronto Maple Leafs to win @ 2.27**