Dave Cokin
Bonus Play Sunday
61 AVALANCHE at 62 OILERS 9:35 PM
Take: 61 Colorado Avalanche +115
I’ll readily admit I’m a bit surprised by this line and that can be a red flag. Colorado ought to be the favorite on my projections, and when factoring in the playoff scenario, it’s a little stunning to see them as underdogs as they head to Edmonton.
No question the Oilers have played some reasonably good hockey lately. This team is clearly not just playing out the string. So Colorado cannot simply show up tonight and expect to get an easy win over a non-contender.
But if the Avalanche are right, they are the better squad, and there’s no question that this is what ought to be a big game for the team. Colorado is in what amounts to a two-team race for the one remaining playoff spot in the Western Conference. Therefore it’s incumbent upon this team to get those two points when they’re up against one of the league’s lesser lights.
One thing worth noting on the current form chart is that Edmonton hasn’t been doing much damage offensively at even strength. But the power play potential was certainly realized a couple games back when the Oilers struck for four such scores in one game. Even though the Colorado penalty kill has been absolutely great lately, it might be a very good idea for the team to avoid being shorthanded on too many occasions tonight.
I guess this falls into the obvious category. Better team in a bigger game, and getting a small dog price to boot. In other words, I could be walking straight into a trap here. But in terms of garnering value, Colorado is a win on that count, and I would guess this line will move during the day. I’ll be satisfied enough to take the plus money now with the Avalanche.
Bonus Play Sunday
61 AVALANCHE at 62 OILERS 9:35 PM
Take: 61 Colorado Avalanche +115
I’ll readily admit I’m a bit surprised by this line and that can be a red flag. Colorado ought to be the favorite on my projections, and when factoring in the playoff scenario, it’s a little stunning to see them as underdogs as they head to Edmonton.
No question the Oilers have played some reasonably good hockey lately. This team is clearly not just playing out the string. So Colorado cannot simply show up tonight and expect to get an easy win over a non-contender.
But if the Avalanche are right, they are the better squad, and there’s no question that this is what ought to be a big game for the team. Colorado is in what amounts to a two-team race for the one remaining playoff spot in the Western Conference. Therefore it’s incumbent upon this team to get those two points when they’re up against one of the league’s lesser lights.
One thing worth noting on the current form chart is that Edmonton hasn’t been doing much damage offensively at even strength. But the power play potential was certainly realized a couple games back when the Oilers struck for four such scores in one game. Even though the Colorado penalty kill has been absolutely great lately, it might be a very good idea for the team to avoid being shorthanded on too many occasions tonight.
I guess this falls into the obvious category. Better team in a bigger game, and getting a small dog price to boot. In other words, I could be walking straight into a trap here. But in terms of garnering value, Colorado is a win on that count, and I would guess this line will move during the day. I’ll be satisfied enough to take the plus money now with the Avalanche.
