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This is a 4% GOW on the Oilers.

Would the League love a Game 7? Of course! 

But the Oilers have rebounded well in this spot all season, and with everything "on the line" here, I believe that Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid will step up here and deliver.

Whether it's Calvin Pickard or Stuart Skinner, I like Edmonton here.

There's no question that the Oilers have their work cut out for them. History is not on their side, as dating back to the 2000 Stanley Cup Final, there have been 20 series to reach a Game 6, and the team up 3-2 has won 14 out of the 20 times. 

So difficult, but not impossible.

Remember, the Oilers did salvage their Cup hopes with a Game 6 win as well last year, before eventually falling in seven games.

History is about to repeat itself. At least for this first part, and then we'll see what happens in Game 7.

In fact, when the Oilers do win Game 6, they'll then have a 50/50 shot at winning the Cup, because teams that are down 3-2 in the Stanley Cup Finals who won are then 4-4 to win Game 7 over the last 25 years. 

Sergei Bobrovsky has been amazing once again this year for the Panthers, but he also hasn't been perfect. He's had big lapses at times, and I think he's going to struggle to contain this potent Oilers' offense.

I think EDMONTON offers great value to extend this series to seven games.

Good luck, NP

This is a 5% NON-CONFERENCE GAME OF THE MONTH on the Oilers.

If you're betting on this game, then you almost assuredly know the strengths and weaknesses of these two teams, the story lines coming into their second straight Stanley Cup Final against each other, and the cast of characters on both sides.

Time to get strategic with our betting over the final few games. I'm usually a contrarian capper, but will be throwing that factor out the window for the final, making my picks.

I have a really difficult time seeing Connor McDavid and Stuart Skinner lose both games at home to open this series. If Edmonton loses in Game 1, I'm going to take them again in Game 2.

If the Oilers win in Game 1, then I'll reconsider what to do in Game 2. 

This is my strategy going into the first two games. 

Great line value here on the revenge-minded home side (as note, that Florida is only 20-19-2 on the road this year, while Edmonton is 25-13-3 at home.)

Lay the short price with confidence on the OILERS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* SECOND ROUND GAME OF THE YEAR on the Florida Panthers.

Momentum in sports is a very real, almost tangible factor that has to be taken into account at times. And I think that's perhaps even more true in the Playoffs.

When a team gets on either positive or negative "momentum" in the Playoffs, it can often be difficult to slow down.

It's also a factor in which I've come to find that the oddsmakers have a hard time properly quantifying into a line.

At right around -130 to -145, I think the Panthers are properly priced here. I think they're going to win Game 5 and get even stronger moving forward.

They played their most complete game of the entire Playoffs in Game 4 by winning 2-0. I couldn't believe how poorly Panthers' netminder Sergei Bobrovsky was looking over the first two games of this series, but now he's suddenly looking like his usual dominant self. And I think he can continue to build momentum himself in this series moving forward as well. 

Florida has interestingly won 25 consecutive Playoff games when leading after the second period. 

And while the Panthers' star players are starting to regroup and figure things out, the Leafs are going in the opposite direction all of a sudden (especially on the offensive end, led by Auston Matthews, who has yet to score in this series.)

Joseph Woll was basically the lone bright spot in defeat for Toronto, stopping 35 of 37 shots.

So far home ice has APPEARED to mean a lot in this series, but I say it's more just the way these teams came into it. Florida has made positive adjustments that are now leading to success and I say that momentum continues here in Game 5 on the road.

Lay the price, the play is on the PANTHERS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* ROUND 2 GAME OF THE YEAR on the Las Vegas Knights.

I think the Oilers open up this series a little flat-footed after their tough six-game series win over the Kings.

Edmonton started off slowly, losing the first two games in LA, and I believe a similar fate now awaits the Oilers here in Game 1 of Round 2.

Vegas won in six games over Minnesota, making the home-ice advantage that much more crucial in this series.

Lay the price, the play is LAS VEGAS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* EASTERN CONFERENCE GOW on the Panthers.

These teams are very familiar with each other. I could write a convincing argument for either side to win.

Just giving this Game 1 the good old "eye test" though, and to me the Panthers enter this series in much better overall form.

Florida took care of Tampa in five games and in all but one, looked completely dominant. 

That included winning the final two games by a combined score of 10-5.

Toronto looked a lot shakier in its six-game series victory over Ottawa, which included three OT games (which it won two of), and a 4-0 shutout loss. 

Sergei Bobrovsky looked sharp in the first round and I think he'll be a difference-maker in Game 1 for the Panthers as well.

Lay the price, the play is on FLORIDA.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BOOKIEKILLER on the Senators.

I had a big play on Toronto in Game 3, but I don't think that the Leafs are going to sweep this series.

These teams are pretty evenly matched, but Toronto has gotten some good bounces in this series.

The Sens are 4-1 in their last five in trying to avenge a home loss as a favorite as well.

Look for the Leafs to wrap this series up back in front of the hometown crowd in Game 5 as a big favorite.

The play is OTTAWA.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* EASTERN CONFERENCE ROUND ONE GOY on the Toronto Maple Leafs.

I think at this price that the Leafs offer great value to take a commanding 3-0 series lead. Toronto won't be taking anything for granted, as it's only advanced out of the first round of the Playoffs once since 2004. 

The Leafs are getting the job done on both ends of the ice, having already blocked 50 shots in this series.

I really respect what the Senators did in the regular season, but they're now completely overmatched here in the Playoffs.

Great line value, the play is on the MAPLE LEAFS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* WEST-CONF GOW on the Calgary Flames.

I handicap the end of the season differently than I do the start and through the bulk of the regular season. 

I also handicap the Playoffs differently as well.

Regardless, here's a great situational bet on Friday night. 

Minnesota comes to town off consecutive OT victories at home, including a wild 8-7 overtime victory over San Jose last time out.

With a game at Vancouver, followed by a game at home vs Anaheim, the visitors could be caught tired and also "looking ahead."

Calgary has been trading wins/losses over its last seven games, and off a tight 4-3 OT loss at Anaheim last time out, I think it'll continue that pattern.

The bottom line here though is that this game absolutely "means more" to Calgary, which with four games remaining, sits in ninth spot in the West, five points behind the Blues and Wild. 

The Flames chances are slim, but earning two points here against the Wild is imperative, so this becomes a "must win" game for CALGARY.

Good luck, NP

My 10* BOOKIEKILLER is on the Winnipeg Jets.

These are two of the best teams in their respective conferences, and this could very well be a Stanley Cup Final preview.

That said, after four straight wins, including three straight at home, the Capitals now hit the road for two difficult games here in Winnipeg and at Minnesota.

The Jets are looking to rebound from a 1-2 stretch, most recently falling 5-3 here to Buffalo. 

The Jets are 25-6-4 at home and they beat the Capitals 5-4 in OT in the Nation's capital in early February. 

Riding the wave of emotion at home, I like the Jets to defend home ice and find a way to win this game.

Lay the price, the play is WINNIPEG.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BOOKIEKILLER on the Edmonton Oilers.

I think a great spot for the surging and revenge-minded Oilers. 

Winnipeg is 47-18 but it's off an awkward 6-2 loss at Vancouver and I believe it'll have its hands full again here against the aforementioned revenge-minded home side.

The Oilers lost 6-0 here to Winnipeg back in October, but note that Edmonton is 8-3 in its last 11 in trying to avenge a shutout home loss vs. an opponent.

The Oilers have won three straight and just hammered Utah here 7-1 last time out.

At this price and considering the situational circumstances, I feel this to be the very definition of "great line value."

The play is EDMONTON.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* SUPER DOG on the Vancouver Canucks.

I think that Vancouver offers great value in this spot for a couple of different key situational reasons.

No. 1: Dallas played and lost 5-4 in Edmonton just last night. The Stars battled back from a big deficit, but still came up short. Clearly, fatigue will be an issue here in the second game of the back-to-back scenario.

No. 2: The Canucks play with revenge following a 5-3 loss at Dallas back in January.

No. 3: Vancouver is playing well right now, off back-to-back wins.

As I said off the top, and considering the three points I've listed above, just really great value here on the revenge-minded home side.

The play is VANCOUVER.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* WESTERN CONFERENCE NON-DIVISION GAME OF THE MONTH on the Oilers.

I base my picks on many different things. This particular one is a great "situational" play in my opinion.

Edmonton is off a tight 3-2 OT win over Montreal and is now second in the Pacific at 3-2. It plays with revenge here after a loss at Dallas at the start of the season.

This the final home game before a tough four-game Eastern swing, so that puts added importance on it for the home side.

Dallas is off four straight home wins and has a game at Vancouver on Sunday. 

Can anyone say letdown/look-ahead/trap-game?!

Considering all of the above situational factors working in favor of Edmonton, I feel that the OILERS could/should in fact be much larger favorites in this spot.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* REVENGE BK on the Rangers.

I had Washington in its 5-4 shootout win over Ottawa at home last time out. Clearly, the Capitals were lucky to win that game. Previous to that, they had lost three straight, so after giving up 15 goals over their last four games, it's safe to say that the Capitals are struggling right now.

New York has won four of its last five. It's coming off back-to-back 4-0 shutout victories. It plays with revenge after a 7-4 loss in the Nation's capital in early January.

Considering the recent form of these two teams, the overall situation and the price, I say that the RANGERS at home on Wednesday over the Capitals is for sure the correct call.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* EASTERN CONFERENCE NON-DIVISIONAL GOW on the Capitals.

I'm going to lay the price here and expect the Capitals to snap their three-game slide.

The Capitals play with revenge as well after a 5-4 OT loss in Ottawa in late January, and note that Washington is 7-3 in its last ten in trying to revenge a road loss vs. an opponent.

Ottawa just snapped a five-game slide with a 5-3 home win over San Jose at home, but with a more "winnable" game at Chicago up next, I say the visitors let their mental guard down here and the more determined and revenge-minded home side steps up and takes advantage.

I think Washington will destroy the Senators here, and because of that I have no issues at all in laying this steeper price.

The play is on the CAPITALS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONFERENCE GOM on the Wild.

I had a play on Boston in its win at Pittsburgh yesterday, but now here in the second game of the back-to-back, I'm expecting the Bruins to have a classic "letdown."

The Wild have lost three straight, and note looking back Minnesota is 7-2 in its last nine after three or more straight losses in a row.

The Wild also play with revenge following a 3-0 loss at Boston at the start of Februray, and note as well that Minnesota is 8-4 in its last 12 in trying to avenge a shutout road loss vs. an opponent.

All things considered, this line could/should in fact be a lot larger.

LAY IT, the play is MINNESOTA.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* EASTERN CONFERENCE NON DIVISIONAL GOM on the Bruins.

With nearly 80% of the early public money on the home side, this one definitely appeals to my contrarian side.

Boston is now 27-25 after five straight losses. It's come out of the break and lost all three games. Note that looking back the Bruins though are 7-3 in their last ten following a five games or longer losing streak.

Boston plays with revenge as well here after a 2-1 loss at home to Pittsburgh back in November, and note that the Bruins are 8-4 in their last 12 in trying to avenge a home loss as a favorite vs. an opponent.

My METROPOLITAN GAME OF THE YEAR was on the Penguins in their 5-4 OT win over Philly here last time out, snapping a four-game slide, but a predictable letdown feels imminent to me here for this "on again, off again" Pittsburgh offense.

The Penguins have allowed 23 goals in the four games since the All Star break as their defense has just completely fallen apart.

Look for the revenge-minded visiting side to take advantage.

The play is BOSTON.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* METROPOLITAN GOY on the Penguins.

Here is a great situational play on the Penguins on Thursday night. Pittsburgh has lost three straight since the re-start, but note that looking back the Pens are 7-3 in their last ten after three or more straight losses in a row.

Their last loss was a 6-1 setback at Philadelphia, and note that the Pens are 7-2 in their last nine in trying to avenge a divisional road loss as an underdog vs. an opponent.

Philly is 2-0 since the re-start. With a couple of nights off before a tough game North of the border in Winnipeg, not only does this set up as a potential letdown spot for the visitors, but also a look-ahead position.

Great line value here on PITTSBURGH.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONFERENCE REVENGE GOY on the Islanders.

This is a great "situational" play for three KEY reasons.

The first one is the "revenge" angle, as New York fell at Dallas 3-0 back in October. And note, the Isles are 7-2 in their last nine in trying to avenge a shutout road loss vs. an opponent.

The second reason is that Dallas is in action in a tough game in New Jersey on Saturday night, and fatigue will be an issue in the second game of the back-to-back.

And the third reason is the overall price here considering the situation/circumstances.

The play is NEW YORK.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* PACIFIC DIVISION GOM on the Kraken.

Sometimes I completely dissect a game and break down every individual player matchup and every angle possible, and other times I keep it really simple.

And that's the case for this one, as for a couple of different key situational reasons in my opinion.

Calgary is in action at home on Saturday night against a red-hot Wings team, and I expect fatigue to be a major issue in the second game of the back-to-back scenario. And with a home game against the Leafs on deck after the game in Seattle, not only does the Sunday matchup set up as a letdown spot, but also a "look-ahead" position for the visitors (and when you add those two situational factors together you get "trap game.")

Seattle just broke a two-game slide with a 6-2 home win over San San Jose. The Kraken's offense has looked good of late and I expect the home side to take full advantage here.

In my opinion, this line could/should in fact be a lot larger.

The play is SEATTLE.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BK on the Canadiens.

This is a fantastic "situational" play in my opinion, with the Canadiens desperate to snap a three-game slide, while also catching the Wild playing the second game of a back-to-back, as they'll have their hands full on Wednesday night in Toronto.

Finally, Montreal plays with revenge here after a 3-0 loss at Minnesota earlier in the year, and note that looking back the Habs are 7-3 in their last four in trying to avenge a shutout road loss vs. an opponent.

For all of the situational factors listed above, I'm on MONTREAL on Thursday.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BK on the Flames.

I think this is a great spot for Calgary to pull off the upset at home.

Washington just had its six-game win streak snapped in a 2-1 loss at Vancouver. With one last road game at Ottawa after this though, I think the Capitals have another letdown here and get caught looking ahead.

Calgary just had its three-game win streak snapped in a 5-2 loss at Winnipeg, but the Flames are 4-1 in their last five as a home dog.

The Flames are the more motivated team here, and they're set up in a much better way to rebound here at home than their counterpart.

Overall, just unreal value here on what I believe should really be a "pick em."

Grab the value, the play is CALGARY.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BLOOD-BATH on the Golden Knights.

Just a great overall situational play. When you count up all the situational factors working in favor of Vegas, and then take into account the line, for sure I feel we're getting fantastic value on the revenge-minded home side.

Vegas is 30-15 but it's lost eight of its last ten, including back-to-back 4-3 losses at Dallas. 

After this stretch of poor play, the Golden Knights shouldn't need added motivation to play better here, but they also play with the added incentive of "revenge" as well after they fell 4-3 in OT at Florida back in mid October (note that Vegas is 7-3 in its last ten in trying to avenge a road loss as an underdog vs. an opponent.)

Finally, note that Florida is in action on Saturday night with a road game in San Jose, so clearly fatigue will be a major issue here on the West coast in the second game of the back-to-back scenario as well.

All things considered, I believe this to be the very definition of "great line value."

Lay the price, the play is LAS VEGAS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BK on the Canadiens.

I bet "value." And here I think the Devils are WAY overvalued, and the Habs way undervalued.

New Jersey is 27-17, but it's just 1-4 in its last five. It did snap the four-game slide with a 5-1 home win over the Bruins, but with two days off between that game, followed by a back-to-back set at Philly and at home vs. the Flyers, it's a letdown/look-ahead position for the visitors as well.

Montreal is 24-20. It posted two straight victories over the Rangers and Lightning before falling 4-2 at Detroit against a desperate Wings side (I had Detroit in that one!), and it plays with the added incentive of "revenge" here after a 5-3 loss at New Jersey back in early November.

That was then though, and this is now. Montreal is playing like an entirely different team at this point of the season, and I think it's the correct value call here on Saturday night.

The play is on the CANADIENS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BOOKIEKILLER on the Red Wings.

I've been just as surprised about Montreal as everyone else. I've road with the Habs a few times over the last month, but straight up as an underdog, and on the puckline option.

Now here though I'm finally expecting the over-achieving visiting side to take a step back.

With a tough upcoming home schedule vs. the Devils, Jets and Wild, this is a "look-ahead" postion for the visitors as well.

Detroit is now .500 after three straight losses, most recently a 2-1 OT loss at Philly. Note though that the Wings are 3-1 in their last four after three or more straight losses in a row.

They also play with the added incentive of "revenge" as well after a 5-1 setback at the Habs on December 21st. 

All things considered, a really great price here on DETROIT.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONF GOW on the Stars.

Carolina is in action on Tuesday night at Chicago, so it'll be fatigued here in the second game of the back-to-back.

With a night off before a much more winnable home game vs. Columbus, this also sets up as a look-ahead position for the Canes.

Dallas just snapped a two-game slide with a 4-1 win at home over Detroit. The Stars play with the added incentive of "revenge" here as well after a 6-4 loss at Carolina at the end of November.

Overall, I feel that this line could/should in fact be a lot larger.

The play is DALLAS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* ATLANTIC DIVISION GOM the Canadiens.

Montreal is playing fantastically right now, and it plays with revenge here and I think this one sets up extremely well for the home side from a situational perspective. 

The Habs are 22-18 and have won five of their last six. That includes back-to-back road wins as an underdog. They do indeed play with revenge here after a 4-1 loss at Toronto in early November. 

With New York coming to town on Sunday, Saturday's contest takes on added importance for the home side.

Toronto is 28-16 after breaking a three-game slide with a tough 4-3 OT win at home vs. the Devils.

With a home game vs. Tampa up next, the temption to "look ahead" will be there for the visitors. Despite this being a long-time rivalry, this does indeed set up as a "look-ahead" position for the visitors.

Finally, with nearly 75% of the early public money quick to back the visitors, I'm going full-on contrarian with this pick, which is completely fine with me.

A great situational play on MONTREAL.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* WESTERN CONFERENCE NON-DIVISION GAME OF THE MONTH on the St. Louis Blues.

I base my selections on many different things. This particular one is based upon what I perceive to be a great "situation." This situation makes the Blues undervalued in this spot in my opinion.

And this pick essentially comes down to the fact that Calgary will be in action on Monday night in Chicago. The Flames are 20-14 and not only do they play better at home, but they also don't fare well in the second game of the back-to-back scenario.

I say the Flames will be fatigued here.

The Blues are 20-20 after losing three of their last four. They'll have had two extra nights off after a 2-1 loss here to Columbus though on the 11th.

This is the start of two straight here between the clubs, and I believe the well-rested home side offers great value to take advantage.

Lay the price, that play is ST. LOUIS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* EASTERN CONFERENCE REVENGE GOM on the Devils.

I base my picks on many different things. This particular one is primarily based upon the "revenge" factor.

New Jersey won't be lacking motivation here after losing five of its last six, most recently a 3-2 OT setback at New York.

The Devils play with revenge after a 4-0 loss at Tampa from back in mid-November and note that New Jersey is 7-2 in its last nine in trying to avenge a shutout road loss vs. an opponent.

Finally note that Tampa has a game on Friday at home vs. Nashville, and will be fatigued playing the second game of the back-to-back.

This line should/could in fact be a lot larger in my opinion.

The play is NEW JERSEY.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONF GOW on the Hurricanes.

I played against Toronto in its 4-0 win at Boston. I believe the Leafs will finally stumble here on the road though after five straight wins and with a night off before five straight at home.

Can anyone say letdown spot?!

Carolina has been trading wins/losses over its last seven games, and off a tight 3-2 setback at Tampa last time out, I'm expecting this pattern to continue. 

The Hurricanes have a manageable three-game home stand here and I expect them to make the most of it, starting here in Game 1.

Lay the price with confidence, the play is on CAROLINA.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* UNDERDOG OF THE MONTH on the Bruins.

As primarily a "situational" capper, this one falls right into my wheelhouse so to speak. 

The Bruins are absolutely desperate after four straight losses. All against decent teams, most recently a 5-4 OT setback here to the Isles.

Boston also plays with revenge after a 3-2 OT loss at Edmonton in mid-December. Note that the Bruins are 7-3 in their last ten in trying to avenge a road loss as a dog vs. an opponent.

Edmonton has won three straight (Utah, Anaheim, Seattle,) but I think a letdown is imminent here with games at Pittsburgh and Chicago still go on this current trip.

Look for the hungrier, revenge-minded home side to risk life and limb to pull off a win on Tuesday night.

The play is BOSTON.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* WESTERN CONFERENCE NON-DIVISIONAL GOY on the Flames.

I've been picking and choosing my spots in the NHL of late, and here's just another really great "spot" bet.

When considering the overwhelming situational factors working in favor of the home side here, I view this to be the very definition of "great line value."

We'll employ the KISS method for this one (Keep It Simple Stupid.)

Nashville is 12-20. It just broke a three-game slide with a 3-0 win at Vancouver just last night. With two nights off after this before finishing its five-game trip at Winnipeg, I believe the second game of the back-to-back scenario sets up as classic letdown/look-ahead (trap game) for the visitors.

Calgary is 18-13, but it's been trading wins/losses over its last three games. Off the 5-3 loss here to Utah, I believe this pattern continues this evening, and before the start of their next road trip.

Calgary beat Nashville 4-3 on the road back in December and I believe it'll find a way to come out on top as well in this favorable spot.

The play is on the FLAMES.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* EAST-CONF NON-DIV GOM on the Hawks.

I think this is a great "spot" for the home side to punch one into the win column.

Montreal comes to town 14-16 after three straight upset road wins, beating Florida 4-0, Tampa 5-2 and Vegas 3-2. With a game at Colorado tomorrow night, can anyone say letdown spot here? It's a letdown/look-ahead spot for the visitors, and when you add those two factors together you get TRAP GAME.

Chicago has now lost five straight after its 6-2 loss here to the Blues on New Year's Eve. Note though that the Hawks are 7-3 in their last ten after five or more straight losses in a row.

The road ahead will not get easier for Chicago, with the Rangers and Avalanche coming to town next. 

I look for the well-rested home side to risk life and limb to secure the victory in this "winnable" contest, while all signs do indeed finally point to a letdown for the over-achieving Habs.

The play is the BLACKHAWKS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* PACIFIC DIV GOY on the Canucks.

I had a big play on Seattle just the other night in its 5-2 win over Utah.

After back-to-back victories though, including a 5-4 OT win at Vancouver last week, I believe the home side is now getting TOO much respect.

The Canucks are the better team overall, and they've responded well in this spot by going 7-2 in their last nine in trying to avenge a divisional home loss vs. an opponent.

Look for the Kraken to get caught looking ahead to their upcoming home game vs. the Oilers and for the revenge-minded CANUCKS to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* EAST-CONF NON-DIV GOM on the Wings.

I think Detroit offers great value in this spot.

Pittsburgh has been trading wins/losses over its last five games, and off a tight 3-2 win over the Isles last time out, I'm expecting this pattern to continue.

And with a couple nights off to enjoy New Year's not only does this set up as a letdown, but also a look-ahead position for the visitors with a game on deck at Florida on the 3rd.

The Wings broke their four-game slide with a convincing 4-2 win at home over the Capitals, and with a couple nights off before a difficult road trip, I believe the DETROIT will indeed build off its latest full three-period effort.

Lay the price with confidence.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* WEST-CONF NON-DIV GAME OF THE YEAR on the Kraken.

If I could call this my "value play" of the season, I would. Either way, as you may or may not know, I base my picks on many different things. I don't follow any particular handicapping methodology and I firmly believe that being flexible with your approach is the best way to secure profits in this extremely difficult environment over the short, the mid, and the long-term.

And for me, this is a great "value play."

The two newest expansion teams meet for the first time. The Golden Knights are on an entirely different level, but these two clubs still have something to prove.

I think each has exceeded expectations as well. Born in Vancouver, and a lifelong Canucks fan, the fans in Vegas, Seattle, and Utah have no idea how good you have it (lol!) 

Winning in the NHL consistently from season to season is difficult, but so far all of the teams mentioned are very competitive.

But Utah enters having lost three straight. It's now 16-11. Regression is hitting hard, and I believe it's going to hit even harder moving forward.

The Kraken have something to prove here. They're 15-17, but they just stopped a brutal five-game slide by beating Vancouver 5-4 in OT in their first game back from the small X-Mas break. 

With two nights off after this to enjoy NY's Eve, Seattle can put its full focus on this contest.

The Hockey Club on the other hand has a difficult game at Edmonton on New Year's Eve.

This is a "letdown/look-ahead" spot for Utah and that = TRAP GAME. 

All things considered, I view this to be the very definition of "great line value," the play is indeed on SEATTLE.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* ATLANTIC DIV. GOM on the Leafs.

Here's a great situational play right here. Toronto returns from the short X-Mas break off back-to-back home losses.

It also plays with revenge after a 4-2 loss here in mid-December, and note that the Leafs are 7-3 (70%) in their last ten in trying to avenge a road loss as a favorite vs. an opponent.

Detroit's lost three in a row, scoring just four goals in that span.

Look for TORONTO to come out on fire and lay the price with confidence.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONF GOM on the Canucks.

A really great situational play here, as I feel that the hungry Canucks could/should in fact be a larger fav in this spot.

The Canucks have lost three of their last four, including two straight. Most recently it was a 3-1 setback at Vegas (I had the Knights in that one!)

With the Sharks coming to town on Monday, Vancouver has a golden opportunity to get right back on track with two very "winnable" games.

The Senators have won five straight, including two straight to kick off this road trip. But with a road game at Edmonton on Sunday, not only does this one set up as a potential letdown spot, but also a potential look-ahead position.

Lay the price with confidence, the play is VANCOUVER.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BOOKIEKILLER on the Knights.

As primarily a situational capper, these are exactly the types of games that I keep my eyes open for.

I play totals. I play dogs. I play parlays and I play just about anything that I find value in. I'm also not afraid to lay chalk, especially when I feel that my "play on" side could/should in fact be a much larger favorite.

And that's the case here.

Vancouver is in action on Wednesday night in Utah and will be fatigued in the second game of the back-to-back. 

Vegas is 20-8 and it's won five of its last six. The Knights come in on three days rest as well. 

As stated off the top, I believe the value is FOR SURE on LAS VEGAS, as I think this line could/should be a lot larger.

Lay the price, the play is LAS VEGAS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BK on the Sabres.

I'm expecting the Sabres ten-game losing streak to come to an end tonight.

They play with revenge after a 7-5 loss at home to Montreal at the start of November, and note that looking back finds the Sabres 3-1 in their last four in trying to avenge a home loss as a -200 or greater fav vs. an opponent.

Montreal is off back-to-back losses, and I think gets caught looking ahead here to a home-and-home set vs. the Wings.

Look for the desperate and revenge-minded Sabres to dig deep and to find a way to get the W.

The play is BUFFALO.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONF GOW on the Rangers.

I'd say, run, don't walk, to get on board this one as fast as possible, as I anticipate this line will continue to rise all the way up until the puck is dropped.

Just really great value here I think. New York is only 15-12, but it just broke a three-game slide with a tight 3-2 win at Buffalo last time out. 

With a tough three-game road trip starting tomorrow in St. Louis, this afternoon home contest takes on extreme importance here for the Rangers. 

LA on the other hand just had its six-game win streak snapped in 3-1 loss at New Jersey, a contest that was 2-1 until the final minute.

With two night off before four more difficult road matchups, I say this is not only a letdown spot for the Kings, but also a look-ahead position.

Overall, fantastic value here on NEW YORK.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* EAST-CONF REVENGE GOY on the Devils.

New Jersey is 18-10, but it's looking to bounce back after a 4-0 loss at home to Colorado. Note that the Devils are 7-2 in their last nine following a shutout home loss as a favorite.

They indeed play with revenge here as well after a 4-2 defeat at home at the start of the season, and note that New Jersey is 7-3 in its last ten in trying to avenge a home loss as a favorite vs. an opponent.

Toronto comes in ice cold after back-to-back losses. It's 16-9, but with a much more "winnable" home game vs. the Ducks on deck, I say the visitors have another letdown here.

All things considered, I view this to be the very definition of "great line value."

The play is NEW JERSEY.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* REVENGE GOM on the Hurricanes.

Just a really great opportunity and play here on Carolina. The Canes are super desperate here after three straight losses.

Note that looking back though Carolina has responded well in this spot for bettors by going 7-3 in its last ten after three or more straight losses in a row.

Carolina does indeed play with revenge as well after a 6-4 loss at Colorado in early November, and note that the Canes are also 4-1 in their last five in trying to avenge a road loss as a favorite vs. an opponent.

Colorado broke a two-game slide with a tough 5-4 win at Buffalo on Tuesday, but with tough upcoming games at Detroit, New Jersey and Pittsburgh, I say the visitors not only have a letdown, but also get caught looking ahead.

I think this line is going to go up significantly before game time, so run, don't walk to get to the window to place this wager.

The play is CAROLINA.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BK on the Flames.

In my opinion, this is the very definition of "great line value." 

I believe Calgary could or should in fact be a much larger favorite in this spot for a couple of different reasons. This one sets up well for the home side in a variety of different ways, and the overall "price" of admission for this selection is the "cherry on top." 

Columbus is 11-9 after winning five of its last six, including two in a row. That included a 5-2 home win over the Flames last week.

Note that Calgary is 7-2 in its last nine in trying to avenge a road loss as a fav vs. an opponent.

With tough upcoming games at Edmonton, Vancouver and Winnipeg, not only does this finally set up as a bit a letdown spot for the visitors, but also a look-ahead.

No such luxury for the Flames though, who are now 12-9 after four straight losses. 

They've had three whole nights off to prepare for this rematch though and I expect the home side to risk life and limb here to secure this victory.

Lay the price, the play is CALGARY.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* WEST-CONF REVENGE GOY on the Stars.

The Winnipeg Jets were a great story to open the season, but they enter this game off back-to-back difficult losses at LA and Vegas. 

With a night off before a home game vs. the Blues, I say Winnipeg has another letdown here in its final game of this road trip.

The Stars play with revenge after a 4-1 loss at Winnipeg at the start of the month as well.

Dallas just snapped a two-game slide with a 5-3 win here over Colorado, and I'm expecting a similar dominant victory in this one as well.

The oddsmakers and general betting public are not realizing the drop off the Jets are experiencing right now, and we can still take advantage of what I feel is a very favorable line all things considered.

The play is DALLAS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONF GOY on the Blues.

As primarily a "situational" capper, this one falls right into my "wheel house" so to speak.

The Flyers are off the super satisfying 3-1 home win over the Rangers yesterday afternoon. Philly has won two straight as a dog, but I say a predictable letdown is imminent here in the second game of the back-to-back.

With four whole nights off after this, before a home game vs. the defending champs on December 5th, not only is this a natural letdown spot for the visitors, but also a "look ahead." This is for sure a huge "trap" game for the Flyers.

The Blues come in playing their best hockey of the season, beating the Rangers 5-2, before then winning 3-0 at New Jersey. St. Louis plays with the added-incentive of revenge here as well after a 2-1 loss at Philly on Halloween.

All things considered, I believe this to be the very definition of "great line value."

Lay the price with confidence, the play is ST. LOUIS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BK on the Islanders.

As primarily a situational capper, this one falls right into my wheelhouse.

Boston is 10-10 after last night's 2-0 loss at home to Vancouver. I had the OVER in that one unfortunately. This isn't the same Bruins team we remember, and I expect the second game of the back-to-back scenario to be too much for the visitors to overcome here.

New York is 8-9 after losing four of its last five, including a 4-2 setback to Detroit here two nights ago. Looking back though finds the Isles 7-3 in their last ten off a home loss as a favorite.

With more "winnable" home games upcoming vs. Pittsburgh, Montreal and Detroit, I say Boston gets caught looking ahead as well.

Lay the price with confidence, the play is the ISLANDERS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONF GOW on the Senators.

I've played on and against both of these teams this season successfully.

I really love how this one sets up for a now desperate Ottawa team though that has lost five straight. Looking back finds the Sens 7-3 in their last ten after a five games or longer losing streak though.

With a tough three-game Western swing after this as well, tonight's contest takes on added importance for the home side clearly.

The Flames come in complacent after four straight tight wins. All at home. The last time they were on the road was two weeks ago in Vancouver and they fell 3-1.

I predict a similar final outcome here as well. 

Lay the price with confidence, the play is OTTAWA.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONF DOG OF YEAR on the Canucks.

Here's a great SPOT WAGER on the Canucks. 

These franchises are familiar with each other, having faced off in the Stanley Cup Final before.

Either way, after two straight victories over the Sharks and on the road in Seattle, I think New York has a small mental letdown here as it gets caught looking ahead to its upcoming games in Calgary and Edmonton. 

Vancouver has been trading wins/losses over its last five games, and off a 5-3 home loss to Nashville as a +103 dog, I think this pattern continues (also note that the Nucks are 4-1 in their last five off a home loss as an underdog.)

With three whole nights off after this before a six-game Eastern road trip, this becomes an important game for Vancouver, one that it would have had circled on the calendar for a while now.

All things considered, I believe this to be the very definition of "great line value."

The play is VANCOUVER.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BK on the Capitals.

Here's a great situational play. 

Washington is 10-4 and it's off an 8-1 win on the road over St. Louis. It has now had four whole days off to prepare for this one.

This is the first meeting of the year between the clubs, but Washington has a distinct advantage playing at home here as the Capitals are 7-2 in the Nation's capital.

Toronto is 9-6 after a 3-0 loss at home to Ottawa just last night.

The last time Toronto played a back-to-back scenario, not only did it lose the first game at St. Louis last week, it then also lost the second at Minnesota the following.

Situationally this one sets up really well for Washington here, and then when you also take into account what I believe to be a very reasonable price at home considering the circumstances, I'd go so far as to say that this is in fact the very definition of "GREAT LINE VALUE." 

The play is WASHINGTON.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* CENTRAL DIV. GOY on Nashville.

Aa primarily a situational capper, this one falls right into my "wheel house" so to speak.

Utah is 6-5-3, while Nashville has struggled this year, going 4-9-1. The Predators though enter absolutely desperate to snap a three-game slide, most recently a 6-2 setback at Florida.

After this Nashville hits the road for five straight difficult Western road games, so this first ever matchup against Utah almost becomes a "must win" game for the Predators (well, at least as much of a "must win" game as you can ever encounter at this point of the season!)

The Hockey Club on the other hand snapped a two-game slide with a 4-2 win at St. Louis last time out, but with three whole nights off after this contest, followed by high-profile home games vs. Carolina, Vegas and Washington, not only does this set up as a letdown position for the visitors, but also a "look ahead" spot.

When you add those two factors together you get "TRAP GAME!" 

Nashville has struggeld, but here's a great spot to take advantage of. Lay the price, the play is on the PREDATORS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* ATLANTIC DIV GOM on the Wings.

Here's a great spot for the Wings. Enough is enough for the Wings who have lost three straight. They've had two days off after a 6-2 loss here to Winnipeg.

Note though that dating to last year Detroit is 7-2 in its last ten after a home loss as an underdog. It's also 3-1 in its last four after three or more straight losses in a row.

Detroit will also have four days off after this before a two-game road trip. This is a prime position for the Wings to take advantage of, and they also play with the IMMEDIATE "revenge" factor after falling 5-3 on October 26th at Buffalo. 

The Sabres just had their three-game win streak broken in a 5-2 loss at home to Florida. Buffalo plays on Friday night at the Islanders as well, and despite the outcome of that contest, this one for sure sets up well for the home side obviously, as fatigue will also be a major issue for the visiting side.

And as Bob Barker used to say: "The Price Is Right!" as well.

In my opinion, this is the very definition of "great line value." The play is DETROIT.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONF DOG OF THE MONTH on the Flames.

After four straight losses, I'm expecting the Flames to risk life and limb getting into shooting and passing lanes to secure a victory here. The road ahead won't get any easier for Calgary, with Edmonton coming to town on Sunday, followed by a tough three-game Eastern road-swing.

The Devils have been playing well lately, winning their last two by a combined score of 12-2, most recently a 6-0 win at Vancouver. With three nights off before a final road game at Edmonton before heading home though, I say this sets up as a bit of a complacent letdown spot for New Jersey. The Devils have looked good, but have also stumbled this season. That's going to be the case here vs. this determined home side in my estimation.

Note that the Devils are just 3-9 in their last 12 after scoring five or more goals in their previous game.

New Jersey is just 3-9 its last 12 in Calgary and just 5-15 the last 20 in the series overall.

If history is any precedence, then the Flames have to be loving their chances to get untracked tonight in front of the home town crowd (note that the Flames are 5-2 in their last seven after scoring two goals or less in their previous outing.)

CALGARY has had a difficult schedule to open the season, but despite that, look for the desperate home side to find a way to deliver the goods in this fantastic underdog investment opportunity.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* DOG OF THE YEAR on the Flames.

I base my picks on many different things. Finding "value" in a pick is really important to me. In fact, it's probably the most important factor overall that I take into account. 

Here I think we're getting great value on Calgary, a team that's already consistently been undervalued this season.

Carolina is 3-2, most recently off the tight 3-2 OT win at Edmonton. It still has games at Seattle and Vancouver upcoming. 

The Flames are 5-0-1, most recently off a 4-3 shootout win at Pittsburgh. Calgary has the night off after this followed by another home game.

I'm primarily a "situational" capper. I'm looking at scheduling, recent and applicable trends and things like whether or not the "revenge" factor comes into play or not. 

I like to release my plays as early as I can, and I'm releasing this pick early on Wednesday afternoon. The point is, despite who gets the start in net here, I love the way this one sets up situationally for the Flames, and I think they should in fact be in the -125 range. 

Great overall value here, making the CALGARY FLAMES my 2024/25 NHL UNDERDOG OF THE YEAR play this season. 

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* EAST-CONF NON-DIV GOY on the Devils.

I'm a big "situational" capper. This is a situationally-based pick for sure. 

Tampa has a game in Toronto on Monday night and if you happen to be playing this one, just know that I also had a play against the Lightning last as well, taking the Leafs at home.

It's rare to see the Lightning lose back-to-back games, but with two really tough opponents over Monday/Tuesday, that's exactly what I'm expecting. 

The Lightning have been the "cream of the crop" over the last decade in the Eastern Conference, and there's certainly no love-loss between any of these sides.

That said, Andrei Vasilevskiy should not be playing the second game of the back-to-back for the visiting side, and if he does, clearly he'll be fatigued.

The Devils are 5-2-1 and they've been trading wins/losses over their last four games. Off a 6-5 OT loss at home to Washington back on Saturday, the rested home side has a golden opportunity, and I think is in fact undervalued in this spot.

Lay the price with confidence, the play is NEW JERSEY.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* Atlantic Division GOY on the Leafs.

I always take into account where the public has put its money. Toronto will be a public favorite, but the NHL overall is simply not a "public" sport. And so I don't always take that into account in every circumstance and am not now.

This is a great price in my estimation, as I believe Toronto will take care of business here. As primarily a situational capper, these are exactly the types of games/situations that I keep my eyes open for. Tampa is 3-1, but off its first loss of the year, a 5-4 setback at Ottawa. With a game at New Jersey on Tuesday, I say the visitors not only have a letdown, but also get caught looking ahead.

The Leafs look to take advantage at home as they enter off a 4-1 loss here at home to the Rangers in a game that they were never really part of. In their only other loss this year, a 1-0 defeat at Montreal in their opener, the Leafs responded with a 4-2 win at New Jersey and then won three in a row overall.

Toronto is at lightweight Columbus tomorrow, so it can put its full focus on this contest. The last time these teams played was in their respective regular-season finales last year, and Tampa won 6-4. 

Look for the LEAFS to respond here on Monday though in what I believe to be a very favorable spot.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* EAST-CONF NON-DIV GOY on the Pens.

The Sabres finally got their first win of the year in their 5-2 home win over Florida, with two nights off between games, I think their momentum gets wasted here.

And with a game tomorrow night at Columbus, the visiting side won't be able to help itself getting caught "looking ahead" either.

Pittsburgh lost its only home game, a humbling 6-0 loss to the Ranters on Opening night. Since then it's gone 2-1 on three straight on the road, culminating in their best performance so far in the 6-3 victory at Montreal. Off that win, I believe Pittsburgh builds off that win before its schedule starts to get significantly more difficult, with Carolina coming to town on Friday night, followed by a five-game road trip.

For all the reasons listed above, lay the price with confidence.

The play is PITTSBURGH.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BK on the Flames.

Just a great common sense play here. Great value overall on an undervalued Flames team that just beat Vancouver 6-5 in their Season opener on the road.

Philly also beat the Canucks by a score of 3-2 in a shootout just last night. It's only the start of the season, and fatigue SHOULDN'T be a factor, but I think it will be here in the second game of the back-to-back scenario as the visitors shift provinces and head over to Alberta.

And with Edmonton and Seattle up next for Philly, not only is it a natural letdown spot, but also a look-ahead.

Look for the Flames to take advantage of this spot before their big game at Edmonton Saturday night.

The play is CALGARY.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NHL GOW on the Oilers.

Clearly, the momentum has swung. Momentum and confidence are two crucial motivating factors in that the oddsmakers have a hard time properly quantifying into a line at times.

And that's especially true in the Playoffs I've found.

I had the Oilers on the puckline in Game 6. I think they're going to win big here as well in Game 7 and pull off one of the greatest comebacks of all time in any sport.

Great value here, and a great situational play overall.

The play is indeed on EDMONTON.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BK on the Oilers.

I had the Mavericks last night in their must-win Game 4 scenario, and I think the Oilers will find a way to finally deliver here in their Game 4 matchup vs. the Panthers.

Note that the Oilers are in fact 7-3 in their last ten in trying to avenge a home loss as a favorite vs. an opponent as well.

With a chance to wrap things up in front of their home town crowd in Game 5, I say the Panthers finally have a mental letdown here.

Lay the price with confidence, the play is EDMONTON.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* ULTIMATE WINNER on the Oilers.

The Panthers flight was a difficult one getting to Canada because of weather and I think that'll be a small distraction that helps Edmonton get over the hump here and to finally earn its first victory of the series.

So far this high-powered Oilers offense has been shutdown, mustering just the one goal, but despite losing Game 2, note that the Oilers are still 12-8 in their last 20 in trying to avenge a road loss as a dog vs. an opponent.

As primarily a "situational" capper, these are exactly the types of situations that I keep my eyes open for, and when taking into account what I feel to be a very reasonable line considering the circumstances, then EDMONTON makes the most sense to me for sure here in Game 3.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BOOKIEKILLER on the Stars.

I've said a few times, that "where the public money "is"" at this point doesn't really matter with so few games remaining, and I'm maintaining that line of thinking here in Game 5.

The only reason I mention this, is because if you've followed me for any length of time then you know I'm very much a contrarian capper. When most of the public is going "one way," I tend to "go the other." 

But that's not the case here with just a handful of games left to go in the season. I think the value here is on Dallas to take care of business at home. 

It's  been a back-and-forth and competitive series, but I say that "home ice" does matter here at this point of the series.

All things considered, a great price here on DALLAS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BLOOD-BATH on the Rangers.

So far this has been a difficult series to predict, but now I say that trend will end.

Home ice WILL matter here in Game 5 for the Rangers, and at this price, the value is just TOO good to turn down.

At this time of year, with so few games remaining, it's my professional opinion, that knowing where the public money is, or who the public is on, becomes much less of a factor to take into consideration.

That was the case last night with my play on the Oilers, and that's definitely the case here as well. I said "value" was the driving factor behind last night's blowout winner, and that's the driving logic behind tonight's as well.

The play is NEW YORK.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NUCLEAR BOMB on the Stars.

I have to say, I was surprised about how well Edmonton played defenisvely in the first two games in Dallas. 

But the Stars managed to win Game 2 and I think they offer great value here to sneak away with a victory in Game 3. 

Both teams have been great, but with nearly 80% of the early public money on the home side, I'm going full on contrarian here and think the value for sure has swung the other way between these two hungry sides.

Look for the Dallas defense and goaltending to be a difference-maker in this upset.

The play is DALLAS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BK on the Rangers.

Florida earned the 3-0 win in Game 1, but I think the Rangers will respond here in Game 2 and avoid the complete upset here.

The Panthers have earned the split, and I say they have a letdown here. 

NY is 7-3 in its last ten in trying to avenge a home loss vs. an opponent as well.

Look for the RANGERS to risk life and limb to secure a victory here at home in Game 2 on Friday night.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BLOCKBUSTER on the Rangers.

These teams are really evenly matched. It would not be difficult to write a convincing argument for either side to win. 

But it's the Rangers that offer the best value here at home. As good as Florida has looked, New York is going to be able to match it defensively here.

The Panthers have been hit or miss offensively throughout the playoffs as well.

Look for "home ice" to really matter and play a big part in why the RANGERS skate away with Game 1 of the ECF.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* SIDE WINNER on the Stars.

Colorado won Game 1 by a score of 4-3 in OT in Colorado, then the Stars won the following three games.

The Avs staved off elimination in Game 5 though with a 5-3 win as an underdog, but now I think Dallas will bounce back here and end this series in six games.

Note that Dallas has responded well in this spot for bettors, going 7-3 in its last ten in trying to avenge home loss as a fav vs. an opponent.

Look for this strong trend to continue here. And with nearly 70% of the early public money on the home side, this one also really speaks to my contrarian side as well.

Great overall value here on the better and hungrier team in my opinion.

The play is DALLAS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BLOOD-BATH on the Hurricanes.

New York is so far 7-0 in the playoffs. It has a chance to sweep Carolina in this second round series, but I don't see that happening.

Note that the Hurricanes are 7-3 in their last ten in trying to avenge a home loss as a favorite vs. an opponent. 

New York isn't going to sweep its way to the Stanley Cup. Regression in some small way is going to happen at some point, and I say it's here in Game 4.

Look for CAROLINA to risk life and limb here to avoid getting swept.

The play is CAROLINA.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BEST OF THE BEST on the Predators.

Nashville finished with 269 total goals, while Vancouver had 277. Nashville goaltender Juuse Saros finished with a 2.86 GAA, while Vancouver netminder Thatcher Demko had a 2.45 GAA.

The Predators' top line with Filip Forsberg, Ryan O'Reilly, and Gustav Nyquist is dangerous and Saros has the ability to steal a game himself. 

I say that comes here now in Game 1.

The play is NASHVILLE.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONF GOM on the Penguins.

I think this is a great spot to pull the trigger on Pittsburgh. The Predators are already locked into their playoff spot, and this is their final game. They'll simply "go through the motions" here.

Pittsburgh not only needs to win its final two games of the regular season, but it also needs some outside help.

The Pens play with the added incentive of revenge here as well after falling 3-2 at Nashville at the start of the season.

I just don't see Nashville putting up a fight at all here. In fact, the exact opposite. It'll just be hoping to sustain no major injuries as it prepares for the Playoffs.

No such luxury for the Pens obviously, who have to do whatever it takes to win this game, and the next one.

All things considered, a great situational play here on PITTSBURGH.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BK on the Bruins.

Boston lost in the first round last year. It'll be out to make sure that doesn't happen this season.

And going into the Playoffs on a high note is the best way to do that. The Bruins just beat the Hurricanes in Carolina last week, and I anticipate a similar outcome here as well now that they're back on home ice. 

Boston hits the road for two straight after this, so expect it to double down and find a way to get the job done at the end of the night.

The play is the BRUINS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* EASTERN CONFERENCE NON-DIVISION GAME OF MONTH on the Capitals.

Despite an untimely five-game losing streak, the Capitals still have an opportunity to earn the eighth spot in the East with four teams within a game of each other or tied. 

Note that Washington is 6-2 in its last eight after five or more losses in a row.

Ottawa can only play spoiler. It failed to do that in yesterday's 4-3 home loss to New Jersey.

I say the Sens come in with "heavy legs" and just go through the motions here vs. this desperate home side.

All things considered, I believe this to be the very defintion of "great line value."

The play is WASHINGTON.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BOOKIEKILLER on the Jets.

LA is on a two-game losing streak, heading in the opposite direction at the wrong time.

Winnipeg though has been trending in the wrong direction for a while now, as it comes in off six straight losses.

It's now do or die for the Jets in a sense as they look to stop the bleeding. 

It's been a tough four-game swing for the Kings, who return home to play Seattle, followed by the Sharks. I say they get caught "looking ahead" here.

Winnipeg's schedule doesn't get any easier after this. And so at this price and considering all of the above situational/motivation factors now working for Winnipeg, I'm banking on the Jets taking off and delivering the goods at home.

Lay the price, the play is indeed on WINNIPEG.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BOOKIEKILLER on the Predators.

Obviously two really good teams here. It would not be too difficult to write a convincing argument for Vegas to win here, but this is a great spot wager on Nashville, and the price is right for sure in my opinion.

Las Vegas is off the tight 2-1 win at St. Louis just last night and I believe the Knights will be predictably "gassed" here in the second game of the back-to-back scenario.

Nashville has had two nights off and it enters playing its best hockey of the season right now with five straight wins.

This is one of the Predators more difficult opponents with only three weeks remaining in the regular season. 

Vegas still has two tough games to go on this road trip at Winnipeg and Minnesota. I think they take a mental night off here and the motivated Predators will pounce.

All things considered, a great price here on NASHVILLE.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONFERENCE GOM on Seattle.

Washington is off back-to-back losses, including a 7-2 loss just last night in Edmonton.

The Capitals still have two tough upcoming games at Vancouver and Calgary.

The Kraken have lost two straight as well, including a 5-4 OT loss to Vegas here last time out. They have some tough teams coming to town after this, so I say they make the most of this opportunity and pounce on this tired visiting side early and often.

Lay the price with confidence, the play is indeed on the KRAKEN.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* REVENGE BK on the Stars.

This is a great spot for Dallas. Florida has won seven of its last eight. It's coming off a 5-1 home wn over Calgary three nights ago, but with a home game vs. Carolina up next after this, not only does this set up as a potential letdown spot, but also a "look ahead." It's a "trap" for the visitors.

Dallas though plays with revenge after a 5-4 loss at Florida in December. 

The Stars enter on top form having won five straight and they haven't played in three nights either.

Look for DALLAS to risk life and limb here to avenge the earlier loss and to take advantage of the home ice.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONF GOM on the Flames.

Plain and simple, this is a fantastic price for a revenge-minded home side that's had three whole days off and that's won four in a row.

Pittsburgh just had its three-game win streak snapped with a 2-0 loss at Seattle, and with an even tougher game at Edmonton tomorrow night, I think the visitors get caught looking ahead.

Look for CALGARY to figure out a way to come out on top in this one.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* PLAY on the Oilers.

I had a great Saturday, but went 0-3 on Sunday. It'll just be a blip on the radar. Time to get back on track with a single play here. I'd say this price is going to go up throughout the day, so the sooner you can get down on this one the better.

I don't mind laying chalk on a team when I think it should or could in fact be a much larger favorite. 

And that's the case with the Oilers. They're obviously a great team, but they've lost four straight. They'll be now desperate to snap the slide after their most recent 6-3 home loss to Calgary. 

The play with revenge after a 4-0 loss at LA back in early February, and note that the Oilers are 3-1 in their last four in trying to avenge a shutout road loss vs. an opponent.

LA has won five of its last six. It barely held on for the 3-2 shootout win over the Ducks last time out. It has a tough game at Calgary tomorrow night. The B2B in Alberta is always tough on every team. 

All things considered, I think this is great value. Run, don't walk, to get down on EDMONTON tonight.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONFERENCE GOM on the Flames.

Here's a great "situational" play on a hungry home side that plays with revenge and when you take into account those two factors, plus a few others while also considering how great this line is, there's no doubt in my mind that we're getting unreal "line value" here on Calgary.

Detroit is off back-to-back losses to kick off this road-trip, allowing 12 goals in the process.

Calgary has also lost two straight, most recently falling 6-3 in a humbling setback at home to San Jose. 

The Flames play with the added incentive of revenge here though as well after a 6-2 loss at Detroit back in October. 

The Wings get caught looking ahead to their final road game of this trip at Seattle and the desperate home side risks life and limb to avegne the earlier upset.

Lay the short price with confidence, the play is indeed on CALGARY.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONFERENCE GOY on the Stars.

Two really good teams, but I think that home ice advantage really will prove to be a difference-maker in this one. 

Carolina is just 13-10-0-1 on the road, while Dallas is 16-8-2-0 at home.

The Hurricanes are off back-to-back wins, but after a 1-0 OT victory at home two nights ago, and with a contest at Arizona in two nights from now, I think the visitors come in flat-footed in this one.

Dallas has won five of its last six. It's off a 3-2 victory at Montreal. It plays in Nashville next, making this home contest that much more important.

Any time you can get a team of the Stars' calibre here at home at this price, you RUN, don't walk to the counter.

The play is indeed on DALLAS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BLOOD-BATH on the Islanders.

The Lightning are probably the better overall team. They're 27-19-5-0 overall, but just 10-14-2-0 on the road.

Tampa is now fatigued after a 3-1 loss at the Rangers just last night.

The Isles won their opener in the second half in Toronto by a score of 3-2 and they face Tampa for the first time this season in a great spot and at a great price.

Lay the price, the play is indeed on NEW YORK.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* REVENGE BK on the Flyers.

Both teams have been great this year, but Philly plays with revenge after a 3-2 OT loss at Nashville two weeks ago, and note that the Flyers are 3-1 in their last four in trying to avenge a road loss as an underdog vs. an opponent. 

Since then the Flyers have won three straight. With a game at Detroit tomorrow, followed by road games after X-Mas at Vancouver and Seattle, tonight's contest takes on added importance for the home side as well. 

Nashville is off the 5-2 home loss to the Canucks, snapping a four-game win streak. With two upcoming home games over X-Mas vs. Dallas and Carolina, I say this sets up as a classic "look ahead" spot for the visitors as well.

All things considered, I believe this to be the very definition of "great line value." 

The play is indeed on PHILADELPHIA.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* NON-CONF GOW on the Penguins.

Minnesota is just 5-8-0-2 on the road, while Pittsburgh is 6-6-0-1 at home. 

The Pens are looking to shake off a 7-0 loss at Toronto last time out, but note that Pittsburgh is 7-2 in its last nine off a shutout road loss.

Minnesota enters off three straight victories, including two straight shootout wins at home, but with a game at Boston tomorrow night, I say this is a letdown/look-ahead spot for the visiting side.

Look for the humbled, yet hungry PENGUINS to do more than enough to secure the victory here.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BLOOD-BATH on the Kings.

This one sets up well for LA from a number of different angles. First off, the Avs aren't playing that great right now, as they lost their second straight road game in extra time last night, falling 4-3 in a shootout at Anaheim.

Now playing the second game of the back-to-back and with a rematch vs. Anaheim at home on Tuesday, not only does this set up as a natural letdown spot for the visitors, but also a "look ahead." And when you add those two factors together, you invariably get a "trap game."

LA though also plays with revenge after falling 5-2 here at home to the Avs back in October.

Look for the well-rested home side to deliver the goods and as Bob Barker used to say as well: "The Price Is Right!" 

The play is the KINGS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BOOKIEKILLER on the Oilers.

I think this is a great situational wager. Las Vegas has lost four in a row. Normally I wouldn't want to play against the defending champs in this spot, but they're off a tough 2-1 OT loss in Calgary just last night, and I think they'll stumble here in the second game of the back-to-back, before finishing this tough road trip vs. the Canucks two nights from now.

Edmonton is in "catch up" mode after a terrible start to the season. The Oilers have won two in a row though, including an 8-2 victory over the Ducks last time out and there's no reason not to think this underachieving Canadian team won't keep that momentum rolling here in front of the home town crowd.

The Oilers can smell the blood in the water and they'll be itching to put on a show for the home town faithful. All things considered, this is the very definition of "great line value" in my opinion. The play is EDMONTON.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BOOKIEKILLER on the Flames.

Calgary is 5-8-0-2, while Vancouver is 12-3-1-0. One of these teams has so far under-achieved, while the other has over-achieved.

Either way, this is a great "situational" play. The Canucks come in off a hard-fought 4-3 OT win over the Isles at home just last night and will be fatigued.

The Flames are desperate for victories and with nearly 80% of the public money on the visiting side, that definitely swings the pendulum in favor of the hungry home side in my opinion.

The play is CALGARY.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BOOKIEKILLER on the Knights.

Las Vegas could easily have had a 3-0 lead in this series, but the bounce finally went the Panthers way in Game 3 in OT. 

But Las Vegas has done well in this spot for bettors, going 4-1 in its last five in trying to avenge a road loss as a dog vs. an opponent. 

Despite the loss, I felt like Las Vegas looked stronger as the game got into the latter moments in Game 3. I like the KNIGHTS to bounce back here for sure.

Good luck, NP

8 OUT OF 10 CONSENSUS on the Knights.

Both teams have been great. With a line like this, the oddsmakers obviously believe these teams are very evenly matched, and for the most part they are. Florida likely gets the small nod in the goaltending department, while Las Vegas gets the nod in the "experience" department. Other than that, these sides truly are evenly matched. Las Vegas comes as the "fresher" team, as it hasn't required more than six games to win a series thus far. Vegas was expected to be here before the season started, while Florida has been riding a "Cinderella Wave" ever since their now legendary seven-game come-from-behind series win over the Bruins in the first round. We say that Fairy Tale comes to an end here though. In Game 1 at least. Look for LAS VEGAS to take advantage of "home ice" and lay this price with confidence.

Good luck, TIR

9 OUT OF 10 CONSENSUS on the Knights.

With a line like this, clearly the oddsmakers feel these teams are very evenly matched. And for the most part they absolutely are. Vegas however is on a roll now after losing its opening game vs. the Jets and at this price at home, we feel the value for sure in Game 2 is on the undervalued home underdog. With the majority of the early money on the Oilers, that pushes the scales in favor of the Knights for us here in the value department. The play is VEGAS.

Good luck, TIR

9 OUT OF 10 CONSENSUS on the Hurricanes.

These teams finished No. 1 and 2 in the Eastern Conference. These teams split four games in the regular season, each winning on the other's ice. Clearly, with a line like this, the oddsmakers feel these teams are very evenly matched. And that's true, so instead of trying to break down individual player matchups, or the strengths and weaknesses of each club (as that's already reflected in this moneyline), we have to find other external factors to work with, and for us, that's going to be the "home ice advantage" here in Game 1. Yes, the Devils were great on the road, but now here in the second round of the playoffs, we feel we're getting great value here on the home side. In our professional opinions, this is in fact the very definition of "great line value." The play is CAROLINA in Game 1.

Good luck, TIR

9 OUT OF 10 CONSENSUS on the Rangers.

The Devils have had a great year. They were down 0-2 in this series as well, and are now leading 3-2. Note though that the Rangers are 7-2 in their last nine in trying to avenge two or more straight losses against an opponent. They're also 8-3 in their last 11 after three or more straight losses in a row. This is a great series for the league, one that'll be a lot better when it goes to a Game 7. That's what the NHL wants, and while the Devils have in fact garnered most of the early wagers, we feel the value here is on the desperate home side. The play is NEW YORK. 

Good luck, TIR

8 OUT OF 10 CONSENSUS on the Leafs.

Before the NHL season started, we released a pick on the Leafs to win the Stanley Cup. Will that prediction come true? That's the million dollar question obviously, but to do that, TO will have to once and for all "get over the hump" here and slay its arch-nemesis in the Lightning. Remember TB eliminated TO in seven games in the first round last year. The Leafs haven't won a playoff series since 2004. The majority of the public money is on Toronto, which isn't our style, but when we get down to so few games at this point of the season, at some point everyone turns into the "public." With that said, Toronto has been the better team in almost every metric and with a chance to get a huge monkey off their collective backs, we do indeed think this is a great price on the Leafs to deliver the goods here in Game 5. Lay the price, the play is TORONTO.

Good luck, TIR

9 OUT OF 10 CONSENSUS on the Hurricanes.

Overall we feel this is a great price, on the better team here at home with a chance to close out this series. New York lost 5-2 in Game 4 and the Isles are now on the ropes. They were just 17-19-4-3 on the road. Carolina was one of the best home teams, finishing 30-10-1-2. We're typically contrarian bettors, but despite most of the early money on Carolina, we absolutely feel the correct call is on the Canes to get the job done here in this crucial spot. Lay the price with confidence, the play is CAROLINA.

Good luck, TIR

9 OUT OF 10 CONSENSUS on the Wild.

The Wild managed the split in Dallas, and then Minnesota took control with a win at home in Game 3. Now with a chance to put a strangle-hold on the series, we expect the Wild to take advantage. These teams are very evenly matched, and that's a sentiment shared by the oddsmakers with a line like this. But the home ice advantage is just not being taken into account properly. The Wild now have the momentum and in this case, that's going to be the difference. In our opinions, this represents the very definition of "great line value." The play is MINNESOTA.

Good luck, TIR

9 OUT OF 10 CONSENSUS on Vegas.

Winnipeg had to almost win out at the end of the regular season to earn the No. 8 spot. That momentum was then carried over into Game 1, where it inexplicably dominated in the 5-1 victory. The Knights then bounced back as expected with the 5-2 Game 2 win. Vegas was No. 1 in the Pacific, and the Jets were a No. 8 seed. Vegas smashed Winnipeg 3-0 in the regular season, as this is just a big mismatch as far as metrics are concerned. Yes, the Jets did finish 26-13-1-1 at home, but the Knights were 26-7-5-3 on the road. Overall great line value, the play is the GOLDEN KNIGHTS.

Good luck, TIR

9 OUT OF 10 CONSENSUS on the Islanders.

We're not counting the Islanders out quite yet. The majority of the bets are on Carolina here, but we're expecting the Hurricanes to finally run out of steam here. Conversely, note that the Isles have in fact responded well in this spot for bettors, going 6-2 in their last eight in trying to avenge two or more straight losses against an opponent. New York was at its best at home this season, finishing 25-13-1-1 on Long Island. We say that "home cooking" is just what the doctor ordered for the Islanders in Game 3. Lay the price, the play is NEW YORK.

Good luck, TIR

This is a 10* BOOKIEKILLER on the Islanders.

It's a big game for New York here. I'd argue that it's the biggest game of the season for the Islanders, who currently sit in ninth spot in the Eastern conference standings, two games behind Florida.

Tampa is in sixth spot, with four total games remaining. The Lightning have 94 points, while the Rangers are in fifth with 101, tied with Toronto. Pittsburgh is in seventh with 86. 

The Lightning of course don't want to go into the playoffs on a losing streak, but Tampa is already locked in to a first round matchup with Toronto. 

But it's do or die time for the Islanders, who are clinging on to a wildcard spot.

New York also plays with the immediate revenge factor after losing 5-0 in Tampa Bay on Saturday. The Isles then lost 2-1 at Carolina on Sunday.

The Lighting come in fatigued here as well after a 6-2 loss at New York just last night. 

The Islanders hold the second wild card spot in the East, but barely. I think they can rebound here from that shutout loss in Tampa, as note that New York is 7-3 in in its last ten in trying to avenge a shutout loss against an opponent. 

In fact, to say this is a "revenge" game would be a bit of an understatement, as the Lightning have won six straight regular-season meetings in this series.

This one means a lot to the Islanders. The Penguins are right behind them and they simply can't afford another loss.

I say New York rallies big time at home and the Lighthing throw in the white towel early.

Lay the short price, the play is the ISLANDERS.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BLOCKBUSTER on the Flames.

I lost with Calgary last night, but I expect the Flames to risk life and limb to secure a victory here.

These teams have four games left to go in the regualr season, and Winnipeg sits in eighth spot, just two games ahead of Calgary.

This is do or die for the Flames tonight, and I expect them to play like it. Of course, Winnipeg won't be rolling over, as it has an opportunity to deliver the knock out blow.

The last time these teams got together, Winnipeg earned the 3-2 victory on January 3rd, so the Flames also play with revenge here.

In what will be a tight and competitive affair, I like CALGARY to find a way to get the job done.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BLOOD-BATH on the Sabres.

The Rangers' three-game win streak came to an end in last night's 2-1 loss at New Jersey. I say fatigue plays a factor here at the end of the season and in the second game of the back-to-back scenario.

Buffalo plays with revenge after a 2-1 OT loss to the Rangers on March 11th, and note that the Sabres are 3-1 in their last four in trying to avenge a home loss against an opponent. 

Buffalo had its two game win streak snapped with a 4-3 shootout loss to Montreal, but it's had three whole nights off to regroup here. 

Great value on the revenge-minded home side, the play is BUFFALO.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* BLOOD-BATH on the Blues.

Both teams in need of a victory here, but I say that this on favors the home side, especially at this price.

Vancouver has won three in a row. It's won the first two games of this three-game trip. After this it returns home for five straight home games, with four of those against Pacific division opponents. I say the Canucks get caught "looking ahead."

So the revenge-minded home side takes advantage. St. Louis fell to Vancouver here 3-2 in OT in February, and note that the Blues are 6-2 in their last eight in trying to avenge a home loss against an opponent as a favorite.

Great value here on the BLUES.

Good luck, NP

This is a 10* EAST-CONFERENCE GOW on the Islanders.

We're coming down the home stretch of the regualar season, with just under two weeks to go. Every game counts, as does momentum at this time of year. 

The Isles are off back-to-back losses, including a 2-0 shutout here at home to Buffalo as a -173 favorite last time out. 

Note though that New York is 7-2 in its last nine off a shutout home loss as a favorite. 

New Jersey broke a two-game slide with a 5-3 win at home over Ottawa last time out, but I think the visiting side will have its hands full here.

Great line value for sure, the play is New York!

Good luck, NP