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Second Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Dallas over Colorado at 9:30 pm et on Thursday.

To say the Stars let the Avalanche off the hook in Game 1 would be an understatement. Dallas led that game by a 3-0 score before going scoreless the rest of the way in an eventual overtime defeat. It was a sour start to a series once again for the Stars after they dropped Games 1 and 2 at home against the Golden Knights last round. I expect Dallas to bounce back in Game 2 this time around, however. Note that the Stars are 72-43 (+12.4 net games) in their last 115 games following a loss including a 22-11 (+6.8 net games) record in that situation this season. They're also a long-term 42-28 (+14.0 net games) when trailing in a playoff series including a 10-4 (+5.9 net games) mark in that spot over the last three seasons. Colorado is still just 22-23 on the road this season where it has allowed 3.5 goals per game. Dallas checks in 28-18 on home ice, giving up just 3.0 goals per contest (while averaging 3.6). Take Dallas (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Dallas over Vegas at 7:30 pm et on Sunday.

You play for home ice advantage in the playoffs all season long and that's what the Stars have on Sunday as they host Vegas in a seventh-and-deciding game in the opening round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Golden Knights staved off elimination with a 2-0 win over the Stars in Game 6 on Friday. Note that Dallas is 71-43 (+11.4 net games) when coming off a loss over the last three seasons including a 21-11 (+5.8 net games) record in that situation this season. The Knights are 0-3 this season when coming off a shutout victory, as is the case here. Nothing has come easy for either team in this series but I look for the Stars to rise the occasion in Game 7. Take Dallas (10*).

My selection is on Vegas over Dallas at 10 pm et on Friday.

The Stars have impressively rallied from a 2-0 series deficit to push the Golden Knights to the brink of elimination thanks to three straight wins. Keep in mind, every game in this series has been close. I don't think Vegas will fold the tent as it returns home with an eye on forcing a seventh and deciding game in this series. Note that the Knights are 25-13 (+7.9 net games) all-time when coming off three or more consecutive losses including 12-6 (+5.2 net games) over the last three seasons and 5-2 (+1.8 net games) this season. Meanwhile, the Stars are just 20-21 (-8.9 net games) in their last 41 contests following three or more consecutive victories including a 9-8 (-3.3 net games) record in that spot this season. When seeking revenge for three straight losses against an opponent, the Knights have gone 5-1 (+5.0 net games) over the last three seasons and 16-9 (+6.0 net games) in franchise history. Take Vegas (8*).

Eastern Conference First Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Boston over Toronto at 8 pm et on Thursday.

The Bruins let the Maple Leafs off the hook in Game 5 of this series in Boston, failing to clinch their spot in the second round. They'll get another opportunity to do so on Thursday and I look for them to take full advantage this time around. Note that Boston is 28-10 (+14.4 net games) in its last 38 games when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent by one goal including a 12-4 (+6.6 net games) record in that situation this season. The Bruins are also 16-5 (+8.2 net games) when coming off a home loss by a single goal including a 6-3 (+0.8 net games) mark this season. Meanwhile, Toronto staved off elimination on Tuesday but is still a long-term 12-13 (-2.1 net games) when facing elimination in a playoff series. Take Boston (10*).

My selection is on Nashville over Vancouver at 10 pm et on Tuesday.

The Predators let the Canucks off the hook in Game 4 of this series, blowing a 3-1 lead with three minutes remaining before giving up the game-winning goal early in overtime. I don't think Nashville is finished just yet, however, as the scene shifts to Vancouver for Game 5 on Tuesday. Note that the Predators have thrived in similar situations in the past. Nashville is 43-31 (+14.2 net games) over the last three seasons when seeking revenge for a loss in which its opponent scored four goals or more, as is the case here. It has gone 18-7 (+12.2 net games) in that situation this season. The Preds are also 10-5 (+4.9 net games) when coming off consecutive losses this season. The Canucks are a long-term 8-13 (-9.2 net games) when attempting to close out a series. They're 1-2 (-2.2 net games) when coming off consecutive one-goal victories this season. Take Nashville (8*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Edmonton at 10:30 pm et on Sunday.

We won with the Kings in Game 2 of this series and the Oilers in Game 3. I'll switch gears once again and back Los Angeles as it looks to bounce back from a 6-1 drubbing two nights ago. Note that the Oilers are a long-term loser at 73-83 (-29.2 net games) in their last 156 games after scoring six goals or more in their previous contest including a 6-8 (-8.0 net games) mark in that situation this season. The Kings are 50-36 (+26.4 net games) in their last 86 games when seeking revenge for a loss by four goals or more against an opponent. Additionally, Los Angeles is a perfect 3-0 this season when coming off a game in which it allowed six or more goals. Take Los Angeles (8*).

First Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Edmonton over Los Angeles at 10:30 pm et on Friday.

A back-and-forth series was to be expected between these familiar divisional foes - meeting for the third time in as many years in the opening round of the playoffs. Here, we'll look for the Oilers to rebound following Wednesday's overtime loss at home. Credit Edmonton for battling back on multiple occasions in that game after digging an early 2-0 hole. The Oilers are well-positioned to bounce back on Friday noting that they've gone 29-14 (+9.7 net games) in their last 43 games following a loss by a single goal. They're also 30-16 (+7.9 net games) when seeking revenge for a loss in which they allowed five goals or more, as is the case here. The Kings are just 19-26 (-11.2 net games) in their last 45 contest after scoring four goals or more in consecutive games, which is the situation on Friday. Finally, we'll note that the Oilers are 8-4 (+2.5 net games) in their last 12 meetings here in Los Angeles. Take Edmonton (10*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Edmonton at 10 pm et on Wednesday.

The Kings got schooled in the opener of this series on Monday, allowing seven goals in a lopsided defeat. I do think we see them bounce back in Game 2 on Wednesday, noting they've gone 48-33 (+16.2 net games) when seeking revenge for a same season loss against an opponent over the last three seasons. Over the same stretch, Los Angeles has gone 10-7 (+4.2 net games) in triple-revenge situations, as is the case here. The Oilers are 9-16 (-18.4 net games) after giving up four goals or more in their previous contest this season. They're also just 10-11 (-9.4 net games) after scoring five goals or more in their previous game this season. All is not lost for the Kings following that setback in Game 1. For road teams in the first two games of a playoff series, it's always all about earning a split at the very least. I'm confident the Kings can accomplish that on Wednesday and we're being offered a generous return. Take Los Angeles (8*).

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Vancouver over Nashville at 10 pm et on Sunday.

The Canucks dropped their regular season finale in Winnipeg but I look for them to bounce back in Game 1 of their opening round series against the Predators. This is more of a mismatch than the line indicates in my opinion. Nashville made a late push but was really only a mediocre Western Conference team all season. Vancouver on the other hand was a front-runner for much of the way before Dallas ultimately overtook it for the top spot in the West. Note that the Preds are just 9-13 (-4.1 net games) in their last 23 Game 1's while the Canucks are 22-9 (+10.1 net games) off a loss this season. Take Vancouver (10*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Dallas at 9:35 pm et on Wednesday.

With their opening round matchup out of their hands, I don't anticipate seeing the Stars go 'all out' to win in their home finale on Wednesday. The Blues are playing for nothing at this point but they certainly want to close out a non-playoff season on a high note and have been playing reasonably well over the last month or so, particularly on the road where they're 4-2 in their last six games going back to March 11th. We'll certainly take a flyer on the Blues at this price, noting they're 2-0-1 in this series this season. Take St. Louis (8*).

My selection is on Columbus over Carolina at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

With the Rangers wrapping up top spot in the Eastern Conference (and the Metropolitan Division) last night, the Hurricanes will play a relatively meaningless game to wrap up their regular season on Tuesday in Columbus. The Blue Jackets limp in off an 0-4 road trip that began with a 3-0 loss to these same Canes in Raleigh. Columbus has definitely been a more competitive team at home lately, securing wins over the Golden Knights, Oilers, Penguins and Avalanche among others since the beginning of March. While I don't anticipate Carolina simply rolling over in its regular season finale, I do think the Jackets are well worth a shot at such a lofty price. While the Canes are 3-0 on their current road trip, they have lost close to four in every 10 games on the road this season. Take Columbus (8*).

My selection is on Buffalo over Tampa Bay at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

While the Sabres have been eliminated from playoff contention, they ended up closer than you might think to clinching a spot in the postseason, sitting just five points back of the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference. Buffalo dropped the first game of its two-game Florida jaunt with a 3-2 defeat against the Panthers in Sunrise on Saturday but I look for it to bounce back here. Tampa Bay is already locked into the first Wild Card spot in the East and enters this contest off consecutive losses. It will wrap up its regular season with a home game against the Maple Leafs on Wednesday. Buffalo is 2-1 in this series this season and has won its last two stops in Tampa. It's hard not to like the return being offered with the upstart Sabres here. Take Buffalo (8*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Pittsburgh over Toronto at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

This is undoubtedly a game the Penguins have had circled on their calendar since dropping a 7-0 decision here in Toronto back in December. Pittsburgh has inexplicably caught fire down the stretch, winning four straight and six of its last seven games after most had written it off. The Pens are now in the thick of the Eastern Conference playoff race and I look for them to deliver another improbable win on Monday. The Leafs are coming off a 4-2 victory over the rival Canadiens in Montreal on Saturday. They return home where they're just 4-4 over their last eight games. Note that Pittsburgh is 19-13 (+3.4 net games) in its last 32 contests when seeking revenge for a loss by two goals or more against an opponent including a 7-5 (+2.2 net games) mark in that situation this season. Take Pittsburgh (10*).

My selection is on Edmonton over Dallas at 9:35 pm et on Wednesday.

The Oilers dropped an overtime decision in St. Louis two nights ago but I look for them to earn a split on this two-game road trip with a victory in Dallas on Wednesday. The Stars are red hot, winners of seven games in a row. Keep in mind, only two of those victories came against teams currently in playoff position. The Oilers are a quality road team at 21-17 this season and the visitors have taken four of the last five meetings in this series. Take Edmonton (8*).

Metropolitan Division Game of the Year. My selection is on New Jersey over Pittsburgh at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Devils have undoubtedly been eager to get back on the ice following Friday's 5-2 loss in Buffalo. Since then, the Penguins have played twice, losing in Columbus but winning in upset fashion last night in Manhattan. New Jersey probably didn't mind seeing that result on Monday as the Pens looked like they poured everything they had into that matchup. The Devils have certainly had Pittsburgh's number lately, securing seven straight wins in the series. In fact, they've scored five goals in each of the last four matchups between these two teams. I'm comfortable laying the mid-range price with the home side on Tuesday. Take New Jersey (10*).

My selection is on Philadelphia over Montreal at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

We'll fade the Canadiens off their big upset win in Colorado two nights ago. They're not in an ideal spot on Thursday as they return home on just one day of rest following a five-game western road trip. Note that Montreal is 5-15 (-6.9 net games) in its last 20 games following consecutive wins, as is the case here, including an 0-5 (-5.0 net games) record in that situation this season. The Flyers took the most recent meeting between these teams and that's notable as Montreal is 26-67 (-21.0 net games) in its last 93 contests when seeking revenge for a same season loss against an opponent including a 3-19 (-14.6 net games) mark in that spot this season. Philadelphia will look to bounce back following consecutive losses noting that it is 11-6 (+6.4 net games) in that situation this season. Take Philadelphia (8*).

My selection is on Florida over Nashville at 7:35 pm et on Thursday.

The Predators enter this game on the heels of three straight wins to give themselves considerable breathing room in the Western Conference playoff race. They're now eight points ahead of the 'first team out', the Minnesota Wild, with a game-in-hand. With that being said, they're not catching the third place team in the Central Division and they have a five-point cushion over the second Wild Card team, the Vegas Golden Knights. Florida checks in on a rare losing streak having dropped each of its last two games. The Panthers can still earn a split of this brief two-game homestand before a tough back-to-back set in New York and Philadelphia on the weekend. Note that Florida is 13-3 (+10.6 net games) in its last 16 games following consecutive losses by two goals or more, as is the case here, including a perfect 4-0 (+4.6 net games) record in that situation this season. Meanwhile, Nashville is 9-14 (-7.9 net games) in its last 23 contests following a home win by three goals or more including a 2-5 (-4.4 net games) mark in that spot this season. Take Florida (8*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Minnesota at 10:05 pm et on Wednesday.

The Wild bounced back from a 3-2 loss in St. Louis with a 4-0 drubbing of the lowly Ducks last night in Anaheim. That sets them up poorly as they wrap up their three-game road trip in Los Angeles on Wednesday. Note that Minnesota is 4-7 (-5.2 net games) when coming off a shutout performance over the last three seasons and a long-term 21-30 (-10.8 net games) when following up a road shutout. The Wild are also 14-25 (-23.3 net games) when coming off a road win in which they scored four goals or more. Additionally, Minnesota is 42-52 (-15.7 net games) when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Kings are a steady 9-6 (+1.9 net games) after scoring six goals or more in their previous contest over the last three seasons, which is the situation here following last night's 6-2 rout of the Blackhawks. Take Los Angeles (8*).

My selection is on Edmonton over Colorado at 10:05 pm et on Saturday.

I've been waiting to make this play since the Avalanche rallied from a 3-0 deficit to defeat the Canucks 4-3 in overtime and improve to 2-0 on their current road trip on Wednesday. The Oilers come in rested and having been at home since wrapping up a four-game eastern road swing last Sunday. They've rattled off back-to-back wins including a 7-2 cake walk against the Capitals on Wednesday. The Avs, meanwhile, have won five games in a row and have to be feeling pretty good about themselves after opening their current trip with consecutive victories. Keep in mind, they're still just 16-19 on the road this season. Let's face it, the Canucks let them off the hook on Wednesday. I don't expect the Oilers to do the same on Saturday. Edmonton is 26-17 in its last 43 games after scoring six goals or more in its previous contest including a 5-3 mark in that situation this season. In an odd scheduling quirk, this will be the first of three matchups between these division opponents this season. Look for the Oilers to make a statement on Saturday. Take Edmonton (8*).

My selection is on Boston over Montreal at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

Not a lot of analysis is needed for this potential parlay-booster on Thursday. The Bruins got boat-raced 5-1 at the hands of the Blues three nights ago, on home ice no less. They're well-positioned to bounce back on Thursday, however, as they head out on the road to face the rival Canadiens. Of course, this rivalry has fizzled in recent years with the Bruins taking 12 of the last 13 meetings. Montreal does enter this game off a 3-0 victory over the lowly Blue Jackets two nights ago. That's put the Habs in poor position here as they're just 1-4 in five games following a shutout victory over the last three seasons including an 0-1 mark in that situation this season. Meanwhile, Boston is 55-27 in its last 82 games following a loss including a 16-12 record in that spot this season. Better still, the B's are 26-11 in their last 37 games played on two days' rest including an 8-3 mark this season. Take Boston (8*).

Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Vancouver over Colorado at 10:35 pm et on Wednesday.

The Avalanche followed up a perfect three-game homestand with a 6-2 rout of the Flames in Calgary last night. I look for them to have a more difficult time as they continue west to face the Canucks in Vancouver on Wednesday. Note that Colorado has now won three straight meetings in this series including both previous matchups this season. The Avs haven't won four straight games against the Canucks since an eight-game win streak in the series way back in 2007-08. The Canucks enter this game off a mini-bye having not played since Saturday. They're riding a four-game winning streak and check in 21-9 on home ice this season, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.3 goals. They'll be without starting goaltender Thatcher Demko for an extended period which means it's up to Casey DeSmith to hold the fort. While he's not the long-term answer, I do think he's a capable back-up. The Avs, despite their recent success, are still just 15-19 on the road this season. Take Vancouver (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Anaheim over Chicago at 8:35 pm et on Tuesday.

The Ducks are coming off consecutive lopsided losses on home ice against the Stars and Islanders. I look for them to bounce back as they take a rare step down in class on the road against the Blackhawks on Tuesday. Anaheim actually sits 10 points clear of basement-dwelling Chicago in the Western Conference standings. Here, the Ducks will be looking to avenge an earlier 1-0 loss in Chicago suffered back in December. Note that Anaheim is 6-8 but +3.6 net games when seeking revenge for a loss in which it scored one goal or less in this season. The Ducks are also a long-term 64-53 (+19 net games) after scoring two goals or less in four straight games, as is the case here, including a 3-2 (+2.4 net games) mark in that situation over the last three seasons. The Blackhawks delivered a 7-4 home win over the Coyotes on Sunday. That was their second win in their last three contests but both of those victories came over Arizona. Chicago is a miserable 3-15 (-10 net games) in its last 18 games following a win by three goals or more including an 0-3 mark in that situation this season. In fact, the Blackhawks are 1-15 when coming off a win of any kind this season including an 0-4 mark when that win came against a division opponent. Take Anaheim (10*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Dallas at 10:35 pm et on Saturday.

The Stars rolled to a 6-2 win in Anaheim last night, assuring themselves of a winning three-game road trip after securing a victory in San Jose two nights earlier. Here, I look for Dallas to stumble as it wraps up its trip in Los Angeles on Saturday. Note that the Stars are just 8-12 (-5.8 net games) the last 20 times they've played a second road game in as many nights. They're also 9-15 (-11.8 net games) after winning their previous game by four goals or more and a long-term 60-89 (-63.8 net games) in their last 149 contests following four straight victories, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Kings check in off an overtime win over Ottawa two nights ago. They're 15-7 (+9.5 net games) in their last 22 contests following an overtime victory. Los Angeles is also 41-26 (+17.6 net games) in its last 67 games when seeking revenge for a same season loss against an opponent, which is the situation here. Take Los Angeles (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Tampa Bay over Philadelphia at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Flyers are coming off a 2-1 road win over the Panthers on Thursday while the Lightning dropped a 6-3 decision at home against the Flames. I look for the Bolts to bounce back on Saturday as they try to stay in the mix in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Tampa Bay travelled to Philadelphia and dropped a 6-2 decision on February 27th. That was a revenge game for the Flyers after the Lightning skated to a 6-3 win in Philly in January. Here, the shoe is on the other foot and we'll note that Tampa Bay is 14-8 (+3.6 net games) in its last 22 games when seeking revenge for a road loss by four goals or more including a 4-1 (+3.4 net games) mark in that situation this season. Meanwhile, the Flyers are just 13-29 (-14.4 net games) in their last 42 games after allowing one goal or less in their previous contest and 1-6 (-5 net games) in their last seven games after holding three straight opponents to two goals or less, as is the case here. Finally, we'll note that Philadelphia hasn't won consecutive games in this series since back in 2017. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

My selection is on Detroit over Arizona at 9:05 pm et on Friday.

This game is a must for the Red Wings as they try to snap a three-game losing streak and bounce back from Wednesday's 7-2 drubbing at the hands of the Avalanche. Despite that setback, the Red Wings remain a respectable 15-15 on the road this season where they've averaged 3.3 goals per contest. Note that Detroit is a long-term 23-19 (+8.6 net games) in its last 42 contests when coming off a loss by five goals or more. This season, the Wings are a perfect 3-0 when coming off consecutive losses by three goals or more, as is the case here. Arizona finds itself in a difficult back-to-back situation after hosting the Wild last night. For Detroit, this trip only gets tougher with a stop in Las Vegas in a back-to-back spot on Saturday before travelling all the way back east to wrap things up with a game in Buffalo on Tuesday. Take Detroit (8*).

My selection is on Tampa Bay over Calgary at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Flames have taken consecutive meetings in this series but both of those games were played in Calgary. The home team has actually won seven straight matchups between these two teams and the Flames haven't prevailed in three straight meetings since way back in 1998. This is a critical homestand for the Lightning, especially after they dropped the opener against Buffalo. They did rebound with a shootout win over Montreal and have now had four days off to get ready for Calgary. Tampa Bay currently holds down the second Wild Card spot (and final playoff spot) in the Eastern Conference but has the surging Islanders and Capitals nipping at its heels, and both of those teams have multiple games-in-hand. The homestand will only get tougher for the Bolts with matchups against the Flyers and Rangers on deck. Calgary is selling prior to the trade deadline, most recently sending stud defenseman Noah Hanifin to Las Vegas on Wednesday. The Flames recently enjoyed a five-game winning streak but proceeded to drop a 4-2 decision at home against the Kraken two nights ago. Note that Calgary is just 11-19 (-18.8 net games) in its last 30 games following a loss against a division opponent. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay is 35-23 (+6.3 net games) in its last 58 contests when seeking revenge for a loss by two goals or more against an opponent, as is the case here. The Bolts are also 61-36 (+14.1 net games) in their last 97 games against Western Conference foes including a 16-11 (+3.4 net games) record this season. Take Tampa Bay (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Edmonton over Boston at 7:35 pm et on Tuesday.

The schedule makers did the Oilers a favor in this rematch of an overtime thriller played in Edmonton two weeks ago. While the Oilers were idle on Monday giving them ample time to settle in in Boston, the Bruins were involved in a division game in Toronto, securing a 4-1 victory over the Maple Leafs. Edmonton enters this game red hot following four straight victories and it should bring confidence to the table playing in Beantown where it has won three straight meetings going back to January of 2020. In fact, the road team has prevailed in seven straight matchups in this series. Note that the Oilers are 28-16 (+8.5 net games) in their last 44 games when seeking revenge for a home loss against an opponent including a 7-3 (+2.6 net games) mark in that situation this season. Better still, Edmonton is an incredible 39-7 (+28.2 net games) in its last 46 contests after allowing one goal or less in its previous game, as is the case here, including a 14-3 (+8.7 net games) record this season. The Bruins haven't been the same dominant home team they were last season, already having lost 12 games at TD Garden. This is just the first game of a four-game homestand and I look for them to struggle in this three-in-four situation. Take Edmonton (10*).

Pacific Division Game of the Year. My selection is on Edmonton over Los Angeles at 9:35 pm et on Monday.

The Oilers are reeling on the heels of three straight losses and it all started with that wild 6-5 overtime loss at home against the Bruins last week. Note that Edmonton is in the fourth game of its five-game homestand so it needs to salvage something beginning with this division game on Monday. This will be a quick revenge spot for the Oilers after they dropped a 4-0 decision in Los Angeles on February 10th. Note that Edmonton hasn't lost consecutive meetings with Los Angeles since November of 2022 and January of 2023. It hasn't dropped consecutive matchups over the last 10 games in this series. The Kings barely escaped with a shootout victory over the lowly Ducks, at home no less, on Saturday. They've taken advantage of a favorable schedule lately to be sure, turning things around after a brutal stretch in December and January. Note that the Kings are a long-term 68-111 when playing for the eighth time in 14 days, as is the case here, including a 1-4 mark in that situation this season. Meanwhile, the Oilers are 31-18 when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent including a 9-6 record in that spot this season. Take Edmonton (10*).

My selection is on Florida over Carolina at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

While the Hurricanes have played well lately, the Panthers are quite simply on another level right now. Florida has won six games in a row and 10 of its last 11 overall. Whether at home or on the road that hasn't really matter one bit as the Panthers check in 20-9 away from home, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.2 goals, allowing just 2.2 goals per contest. Carolina has admittedly played well at home, sitting eight games above .500 but has given up 2.9 goals per game. This is a series the Panthers have owned, taking nine of the last 11 meetings including a four-game playoff series sweep last May. Note that Florida is 12-5 in its last 17 games following six straight victories while Carolina is just 2-3 when coming off three wins in a row this season. Take Florida (8*).

My selection is on Dallas over New York at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Stars let the Bruins off the hook yesterday afternoon in Boston, allowing the tying goal with under two minutes remaining in the third period before losing in a shootout. I look for them to bounce back on Tuesday as they look to respond following consecutive losses. Note that Dallas is still 17-11 on the road this season, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.7 goals. The Rangers are red hot, winners of seven games in a row. Keep in mind, their recent surge has come at the expense of a number of struggling teams, including the rival Islanders in Sunday's Stadium Series matchup. New York rallied back from a late 5-3 deficit to tie the game before scoring early in the overtime period to secure the victory. Note that the Rangers are 0-3 when coming off seven straight wins over the last three seasons, and 3-9 in their last 12 contests in that situation. The Stars are 21-6 in their last 27 games after giving up four goals or more in consecutive games and a perfect 7-0 when coming off a road loss by one goal this season. Take Dallas (8*).

Metropolitan Division Game of the Month. My selection is on New York over Pittsburgh at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Penguins are reeling right now, losers of four of their last five games to fall farther out of the Eastern Conference playoff race. The Islanders are struggling as well having dropped three straight games including Sunday's heart-breaker against the Rangers outdoors at MetLife Stadium. I do think the Isles are better-positioned to bounce back right now. Here, they'll be looking for revenge after dropping both previous matchups between these two teams this season. Pittsburgh is sorely missing Jake Guentzel right now. Go up and down the Pens roster and you won't find many reliable sources for offense. Keep in mind, the Pens average only 2.7 goals per game on home ice this season while the Isles average 3.0 goals per contest on the road. Pittsburgh hasn't won three straight meetings in this series since 2021. New York checks in 29-23 in its last 52 games following a one goal loss while Pittsburgh is just 24-25 (-10.9 net games) when coming off a home loss. Take New York (10*).

Underdog Game of the Month. My selection is on Detroit over Calgary at 4:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Red Wings have dropped the first two games on their current western road trip and both of those losses came in lopsided fashion. Note that Detroit is 8-6 in its last 14 games following consecutive road losses and 12-8 in its last 20 contests following two straight road losses by three goals or more, as is the case here. The Flames had won four games in a row prior to losing their last two contests. Calgary began a potential fire sale by dealing away Elias Lindholm during the All-Star break and is essentially going nowhere this season. Note that the Flames are just 12-13 on home ice this season, averaging just 2.9 goals per game. While Detroit hasn't been any better on the road, it has at least shown more of an offensive spark, averaging 3.3 goals per contest. Calgary checks in 11-18 in its last 29 games following a loss against a division opponent and 2-9 in its last 11 contests following consecutive losses by two goals or more, which is the situation here. Take Detroit (10*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Boston over Tampa Bay at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The home team has won five straight meetings in this series and I look for that trend to continue on Tuesday. Tampa Bay is coming off a much-needed 4-2 victory in Columbus on Saturday as it snapped a two-game losing streak. The Lightning are still 11-17 on the road this season where they've been outscored by an average margin of 0.7 goals. Boston checks in 17-9 on home ice but is coming off an ugly 3-0 defeat at the hands of the Capitals at TD Garden on Saturday. Note the Bruins have outscored the opposition by an average margin of 1.1 goals here at home this season. The Bolts have had plenty of success in recent years but they're just 19-20 in their last 39 games following a road victory by two goals or more, as is the case here. The Bruins on the other hand are 7-2 in their last nine games after suffering a home loss by three goals or more and a perfect 5-0 in their last five contests after getting shut out in their previous game. Take Boston (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Winnipeg over Philadelphia at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Jets fell behind early and never recovered in a 3-0 loss in Pittsburgh on Tuesday. That marked their fourth straight loss having scored just three goals over that stretch. I do like their chances of bouncing back on Thursday, however, as they look for revenge after dropping a 2-0 decision at home against the Flyers in mid-January. Despite Tuesday's setback, Winnipeg remains 14-9 on the road this season where it has held the opposition to just 2.3 goals per contest. In stark contrast, Philadelphia is 11-14 on home ice, allowing 3.3 goals per game. Note that the Jets are 8-3 in their last 11 games when seeking revenge for a shutout loss against an opponent. They're also 21-17 in their last 38 contests following a loss by three goals or more. Meanwhile, the Flyers are just 5-11 in their last 16 games after recording a one-goal win on the road, as is the case here. Philadelphia is also a miserable 11-28 in its last 39 contests after holding its previous opponent to one goal or less. Take Winnipeg (10*).

My selection is on Toronto over Dallas at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday.

The Stars were on the ice in Buffalo last night and while a 2-1 regulation time victory doesn't appear all that taxing at first glance, it's worth noting that they were outshot 48-30 and spent a lot of the night chasing the Sabres around in their own zone. Now they make the short trip to Toronto where you have to figure the Maple Leafs will be in a foul mood after dropping a 3-2 decision against the Islanders on Monday. Toronto should be happy to see Dallas as it has won five straight meetings in this series. In fact, you would have to go all the way back to pre-Covid days in February of 2020 to find the last time the Stars won a game in this series. Dallas is currently approaching uncharted territory as it checks in off four straight wins, having yet to notch five consecutive victories this season. Note that the Stars are just 5-11 in their last 16 games when seeking revenge for a home loss by three or more goals against an opponent, as is the case here. The Leafs are 23-15 in their last 38 games following a home loss and a perfect 3-0 this season when coming off a one-goal loss on home ice. Take Toronto (8*).

My selection is on Detroit over Vegas at 8:05 pm et on Saturday.

Tough spot for the Golden Knights here as they play the second of back-to-back nights for the second time this week, on the road no less. Vegas is playing well having won four of its last five games but so is Detroit. The Red Wings check in winners of eight of their last 11 contests. I think it's good for teams to get in a bit of a rhythm at this time of year and Detroit should be locked-in right now having played every second night since the 17th with this marking its fourth straight home game. The Wings are 13-11 on home ice this season where they average 3.7 goals per game. While teams are often fade material off a shutout victory (which is the situation the Wings are in here), that hasn't necessarily been the case with Detroit. It is 6-4 in its last 10 games following a shutout victory and 20-14 in its last 34 contests after a win by three goals or more, as is the case here. Detroit enters this matchup owning a slight 5-4 edge in the all-time series between these two teams. Take Detroit (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on New York over Ottawa at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Rangers are slumping right now, losers of seven of their last 10 games. I fully expect them to shake off last night's lopsided home defeat against the Golden Knights as they make the trip to Ottawa to face the Senators on Saturday. This is a game the Blueshirts have likely had circled on their calendars as they've inexplicably dropped three straight matchups with the Sens. Note that they haven't lost four games in a row against Ottawa since way back in 2006-07. Despite their recent struggles, the Rangers remain a winning team on the road at 14-12 on the campaign, allowing just 2.8 goals per game along the way. That's more than we can say for the Sens at home as they've gone 10-13, yielding 3.5 goals per contest. Ottawa enters off a 3-2 overtime loss against the Bruins on Thursday. Note that the Sens are 12-19 in their last 31 games following a loss against a division opponent. In general, Ottawa hasn't been a good bounce-back team this season, going 11-14 following a loss. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on New York over Vegas at 7:05 pm et on Friday.

As if the Rangers weren't already in a foul enough mood following an upset loss in San Jose two nights ago to wrap up a disappointing 1-3 western road swing, they'll return home to host the Golden Knights on Friday - a team that drummed them 5-1 during that aforementioned road trip. I expect New York to exact some payback on Friday. A return home should be welcome for the Rangers as they're 15-6 at Madison Square Garden this season, allowing just 3.0 goals per contest. The Golden Knights, while coming off a win on Long Island two nights ago, are still just 10-13 on the road, where they've allowed 3.3 goals per game. Note that Vegas is just 4-7 when coming off a one-goal victory this season, as is the case here. The Rangers are 11-3 in their last 14 games when seeking revenge for a loss by four goals or more against an opponent. When that loss came on the road, they're a perfect 8-0 in their last eight tries. Finally, we'll note that New York is 31-19 in its last 50 games following a road loss. Take New York (8*).

Division Game of the Week. My selection is on New Jersey over Carolina at 7:35 pm et on Thursday.

This is a game the Devils have undoubtedly had circled on their calendar since bowing out in five games against the Hurricanes in last year's playoffs. New Jersey catches Carolina in a favorable spot as the Devils check in off two full days of rest while the Hurricanes just posted a big win in Boston last night (it was an emotionally-draining game as the Canes blew a 2-0 third period lead before winning 3-2). Note that New Jersey has been at its best on the road this season going 14-8 and averaging 3.6 goals per game. While the Devils are missing a number of key contributors right now, Monday's wild 6-5 overtime win over the Golden Knights surely gave them a boost of confidence heading into this brief two-game road trip. Note that New Jersey is 17-6 in its last 23 games following a one-goal victory at home. The Canes are just 5-7 when coming off a road win and 7-11 when playing their fourth game in seven days this season. Take New Jersey (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Calgary over St. Louis at 9:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Flames are off to a disappointing 1-2 start to their current homestand but I look for them to bounce back as they host the Blues on Tuesday. St. Louis took advantage of a quick revenge spot against the Capitals, skating to a 3-0 victory on Saturday after dropping a 5-2 decision in Washington two nights earlier. The Blues continue to display a strong home-road dichotomy noting they're just 8-13 away form home this season where they average a miserable 2.3 goals per contest. The Flames are 11-10 on home ice, limiting opponents to just 2.9 goals per game. Note that the Blues are just 1-4 in their last five games following a shutout win at home and 8-13 in 21 contests after a victory this season. The Flames check in 13-7 in their last 20 games following a home loss by two goals or more, as is the case here. They're also 22-19 in their last 41 contests after scoring one goal or less in their previous game. Take Calgary (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on New Jersey over Vegas at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

These two teams had much different results on Saturday as Vegas skated to a 3-2 win over Pittsburgh at home while New Jersey suffered a lopsided 6-2 defeat against a hungry Dallas squad in a tough back-to-back spot off a win in Columbus the night earlier. Here, I look for the Devils to bounce back. Note that Vegas is 0-4 in its last four games following three straight home wins, as is the case here. New Jersey is 4-2 in six games following a contest in which it allowed six or more goals this season. The Devils are also a long-term 129-114 when coming off a home loss by two goals or more. The favorite has gone 5-2 in the last seven meetings in this series. Take New Jersey (10*).

My selection is on New York over Anaheim at 8:30 pm et on Sunday.

The Rangers have inexplicably hit the skids lately, dropping six of their last eight games including the first two contests on their current four-game western road trip. I look for them to bounce back on Sunday as they head to Anaheim to face the reeling Ducks. Anaheim dropped a 5-3 decision in San Jose last night. The Ducks fought until the end in that game, ultimately giving up an empty-net goal in the final minute that sealed the result. The Rangers on the other hand looked like they barely broke a sweat in a 2-1 loss against the Kings in Los Angeles. Note that New York is 8-2 in its last 10 games following consecutive road losses and 22-11 in its last 33 contests after scoring two goals or less in each of its last two games, as is the case here. The Ducks are a miserable 13-48 when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent. Anaheim is also 5-21 in its last 26 games following a loss by two goals or more against a division opponent. Take New York (8*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Washington at 8 pm et on Saturday.

The Blues aren’t really going anywhere this season, mired in the middle of the pack as they continue in no man’s land between being competitive and a complete rebuild. I do like the spot for them on Saturday, however, as they get a quick revenge game following a 5-2 loss in Washington on Thursday. That marked St. Louis’ third straight loss. This is the spot for it to reverse course before heading to western Canada for a road trip. The Blues remain a winning team on home ice this season while the Capitals have admittedly played better lately but still average just 2.4 goals per game on the road. I don’t think that cuts it in this matchup on Saturday. Take St. Louis (8*).

Metropolitan Division Game of the Month. My selection is on New Jersey over Columbus at 7:05 pm et on Friday.

I like the bounce-back spot for the Devils on Friday as they look to respond following Wednesday's 3-2 home loss against the Canadiens. Columbus has been idle since Monday which isn't necessarily a good thing when you consider it is coming off a stunning win over the Canucks. The Blue Jackets probably would have liked to get right back on the ice after that victory but instead had to sit idle for three full days. Note that Columbus is still just 9-16 on home ice this season. Meanwhile, New Jersey has continued a trend that began last season, playing better hockey on the road than at home, going 13-8 in enemy territory. The Devils check in having gone 11-7 when coming off consecutive games in which they allowed three or more goals this season, as is the case here. Columbus is just 1-6 when coming off a home win in which it scored at least four goals. The favorite has gone 8-1 in the last nine meetings in this series. Take New Jersey (10*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Washington at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

While Washington may own the slightly better overall record, I'm not convinced it is the better team in this matchup. Noting that the underdog has gone 6-1-1 in the last eight meetings in this series, we'll confidently back the well-rested Blues as they head to Washington on Thursday. St. Louis hasn't played since Sunday, when it dropped its second straight game on home ice against the Flyers. On Monday, we saw the Capitals skate to a 2-0 victory at home against the Ducks. Note that Washington is just 6-9 in its last 15 games following a shutout win. It is also a long-term 26-34 in its last 60 contests after posting a win by two goals or more. Meanwhile, St. Louis checks in 23-19 in its last 42 games after giving up four goals or more in consecutive games, as is the case here. The Blues are also 5-1 this season when coming off a home loss by two goals or more. Take St. Louis (8*).

My selection is on Boston over Vegas at 10:05 pm et on Thursday.

Last night's 3-0 setback in Denver dropped Vegas to a miserable 12-17 over its last 29 games. Things won't get any easier on Thursday as it travels back home to face a Bruins squad that should be in a foul mood after dropping consecutive games to open their current western road swing. Boston had the benefit of being off yesterday and checks in 12-10 on the road this season, where it has allowed just 2.9 goals per game. Note that the B's are 27-12 in their last 39 games following a road loss. Better still, they're 7-2 in their last nine contests following consecutive road defeats and a red hot 10-1 in their last 11 games after giving up three goals or more in three straight games, as is the case here. Vegas is just 8-15 in its last 23 games when playing on no rest. The Knights are also just 11-14 in their last 25 contests after a road loss by two goals or more. Take Boston (8*).

My selection is on Pittsburgh over Vancouver at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Canucks have made the most of their current road trip, reeling off three straight wins following a loss in St. Louis to kick it off. I don't like the spot for Vancouver here, however, as it plays its sixth game in the last 10 nights, in six different cities no less. Note that the Canucks are just 5-8 in their last 13 games following consecutive road wins and 0-3 in their last three contests after scoring five goals or more in three consecutive games, as is the case here. The Penguins are in an excellent positive momentum spot here off Monday's 4-1 win in Philadelphia. They're 29-21 in their last 50 games following a road victory and 28-15 in their last 43 contests after allowing one goal or less in their previous game. Finally, we'll note that the home team has gone 5-1 in the last six meetings in this series. Take Pittsburgh (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on New York over Vancouver at 7:35 pm et on Tuesday.

You have to figure the Islanders were pleased seeing the Canucks pour it on early against the Rangers in Manhattan last night. It's never a bad thing to see your upcoming opponent punch themselves tired in the front half of a back-to-back set. The Isles are fresh off a couple of days off after a disappointing 1-3 road trip. Note that New York has gone 11-2 in its last 13 home contests when coming off a road trip lasting two or more games. The Isles are also 16-8 in their last 24 games after losing three of their last four contests. The Canucks have taken each of the last two meetings between these two teams, including a 4-3 victory on home ice back in mid-November. That's notable as Vancouver hasn't won three straight matchups with New York since back in 2015-16. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Colorado over Boston at 9:05 pm et on Monday.

These two teams had very different results in their respective games on Saturday. Colorado dropped an ugly 8-4 decision in afternoon action at home against Florida while Boston skated past Tampa Bay by a 7-3 score. The Avalanche are still an impressive 16-5 on home ice this season and check in 25-12 in their last 37 games after allowing five goals or more in their previous contest. Colorado has also gone 6-2 in its last eight games after a home loss by three goals or more. This is undoubtedly a game the Avs had circled on their calendar at the outset of the season after the Bruins defeated them 5-1 and 4-0 in a pair of matchups last season. Note that the home team has gone 7-2 in the last nine meetings in this series. While the Avs have the benefit of staying home following Saturday's contest, the Bruins will have travelled across the country. Boston also has to catch a plane to Arizona after tonight's contest as it plays against the Coyotes tomorrow night. Meanwhile, the Avs can empty the tank tonight as they'll have a day off tomorrow before hosting Vegas on Wednesday to wrap up their three-game homestand. Take Colorado (8*).

My selection is on Boston over Tampa Bay at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Bruins haven't been the same nearly unbeatable force at home this season that they were in 22-23 but they're still 11-6 at TD Garden and I expect them to bounce back from Thursday's 6-5 loss right here against the Penguins. Boston didn't execute much well in that defeat at the hands of Pittsburgh. Perhaps a letdown was to be expected as it was returning home off a perfect 2-0 road trip and four straight victories overall. Nevertheless, this is a game the Bruins will undoubtedly get up for after they dropped a 5-4 decision in Tampa on November 20th. The Bruins are an incredible 23-5 in their last 28 home games when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent. Note that despite Thursday's poor defensive showing, the B's are still giving up just 2.5 goals per game on home ice this season. That's in stark contrast to the Lightning's road ledger as they've given up a whopping 3.9 goals per contest in enemy territory. Tampa Bay is coming off a 4-1 victory in Minnesota on Thursday but hasn't won consecutive games since recording three wins in a row from December 19th to 23rd. The Bolts are just 6-12 when coming off a win this season. Take Boston (8*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Buffalo over Montreal at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Sabres have had plenty of time to stew over Sunday's 5-1 defeat at the hands of the Senators in Ottawa. This would have already been a game Buffalo had circled on its calendar after dropping both previous meetings, at home no less, in this series this season. The Canadiens just played in Dallas two nights ago, wrapping up a long seven-game road stretch that started on December 18th (they did return home for a brief holiday break). While the Sabres are by no means road warriors, they haven managed to go 10-7 in their last 17 road games against Atlantic Division opponents. They're also an impressive 23-11 in their last 34 games when seeking revenge for a home loss against an opponent. Meanwhile, the Canadiens are a miserable 20-46 in their last 66 games following a win, as is the case here after Tuesday's upset victory in Dallas. Note that the road team has won five straight and six of the last seven meetings in this series. Take Buffalo (10*).

My selection is on New Jersey over Washington at 7:35 pm et on Wednesday.

The spot doesn't get much better for the Devils as they look to bounce back from a 5-2 drubbing at the hands of the Bruins in Boston this past Saturday. That loss snapped a three-game winning streak as New Jersey has certainly turned things around following a slow start to the campaign. The Devils check in 11-6 over their last 17 contests. Washington entered last night's game in Pittsburgh riding a four-game losing streak having scored a grand total of just five goals over that stretch. This is undoubtedly a game the Devils have had circled after dropping the first two meetings in this series this season (both on home ice). Note that the road team has gone 9-2 in the last 11 matchups between these two teams. Take New Jersey (8*).

My selection is on Colorado over New York at 9:05 pm et on Tuesday.

You have to figure Islanders head coach Lane Lambert's days behind the bench are once again numbered as New York has dropped five of its last eight games following a brief surge. Things won't get any easier as the Isles continue their road trip with a top in Denver on Tuesday. The Avalanche are 7-3 over their last 10 games and check in 15-4 on home ice this season. Speaking of home ice, the home team has dominated this particular series, going 14-3 in the last 17 meetings. The Avs did manage to skate to a 7-4 win on Long Island earlier this season but that's been the exception rather than the rule. Here, we'll note that New York is a miserable 1-10 in its last 11 road contests after scoring one goal or less in its previous game. Meanwhile, the Avs are 26-12 in their last 38 games after allowing two goals or less in consecutive games, as is the case here. Take Colorado (8*).

My selection is on Ottawa over Buffalo at 6:05 pm et on Sunday.

The Sabres needed everything they had in the tank to rally for a 3-2 overtime win over the Blue Jackets in a big revenge spot yesterday. Now the Senators are in a revenge spot of their own as they host Buffalo on New Year's Eve. The Sabres took the only previous matchup between these two teams this season by a 6-4 score in Ottawa back in October. The Senators saw their two-game winning streak come to an end at the hands of the red hot Devils on Friday. I like the bounce back spot here at home as they check in 14-12 in their last 26 games when seeking revenge for a home loss by two goals or more against an opponent. Take Ottawa (8*).

My selection is on Pittsburgh over St. Louis at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

While the Blues were battling it out with the division rival Avalanche last night on home ice, the Penguins were home and cool following consecutive off days. The last time we saw Pittsburgh take the ice it delivered a lopsided 7-0 victory on Long Island. The Pens are playing some of their best hockey of the season right now, winners of five of their last seven games. They're allowing just 2.5 goals per game on home ice this season and this marks the start of a three-game homestand that will take them into the New Year. Note that St. Louis has struggled to find the back of the net on the road this season, averaging 2.3 goals per contest while going 7-11. Take Pittsburgh (8*).

Central Division Game of the Year. My selection is on Colorado over St. Louis at 8:05 pm et on Friday.

I'll generally look to back the Avalanche in bounce back spots at every opportunity and will certainly do so here after they blew a 4-0 lead in Arizona and fell by a 5-4 score in overtime two nights ago. While the Avs were blowing that game, the Blues were outlasting the Stars by a 2-1 score here on home ice. Note that the road team has gone 9-2 in the last 11 meetings in this series. St. Louis is riding a three-game winning streak, matching its longest such streak this season. The last time the Blues won three in a row they went on to lose 5-1 to the Sharks in their next game. St. Louis did take the most recent meeting between these two teams by an 8-2 score in Denver on November 11th. The Avs are 25-19 in their last 44 road games when seeking revenge for a loss by four or more goals against an opponent. Take Colorado (10*).

My selection is on Toronto over Columbus at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Maple Leafs undoubtedly already had this game circled on their calendar after dropping a wild 6-5 overtime decision at home against the Blue Jackets on December 14th. That was before they dropped a 9-3 loss in Buffalo two nights ago. Note that Toronto checks in 46-29 in its last 75 games after giving up five goals or more in consecutive games, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets are a long-term 50-99 when coming off a one-goal loss against a divisional opponent, which is also the situation in this spot. Take Toronto (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Detroit over Philadelphia at 7:05 pm et on Friday.

The Red Wings had to enjoy the fact that the Flyers were involved in a hard-fought affair with the Predators in Philadelphia last night. Detroit is in desperate need of a victory on Friday as it looks to snap a four-game losing streak before hitting the road again to face the Devils in Newark on Saturday. Note that the favorite has gone 5-1 in the last six meetings in this series and the Wings will be looking to avenge a 1-0 setback in Philadelphia just last week. Detroit is 21-15 in its last 36 games after losing four of its last five contests, as is the case here. Take Detroit (10*).

My selection is on Toronto over Buffalo at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Leafs are coming off a 5-2 loss against the Rangers two nights ago but I look for them to bounce back as they make the short trip to Buffalo to face the reeling Sabres on Thursday. Note that the road team has won six of the last eight meetings in this series. Toronto checks in sporting a 7-6 road record this season and has gone an incredible 14-2 in its last 16 games after giving up five goals or more in its previous game over the last two seasons. Buffalo is just 6-9 on home ice this season where it has been outscored by an average margin of 0.7 goals. While you would assume this would be a rebound spot for Buffalo after it dropped a 9-4 decision against Columbus two nights ago, it has gone a woeful 7-15 in its last 22 games after a home loss by three goals or more. Take Toronto (8*).

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Nashville over Vancouver at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Predators are rolling right now and they're in good position to keep it going on Tuesday as they enter this matchup with the Canucks rested and at home, where they're 11-6 on the season. Nashville hasn't taken the ice since Saturday, when it skated to a 3-1 win over Washington. You can argue that the Preds have been the best team in the league over the last month, going 13-3 over their last 16 contests. The Canucks have reeled off five wins in their last six games but needed everything they had in the tank to secure a 4-3 win in Chicago on Sunday. Note that the Canucks have taken each of the first two meetings between these teams this season. The Preds are a perfect 5-0 when playing with double-revenge at home this season, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.6 goals in that situation. Meanwhile, the Canucks are just 8-12 in their last 20 games following a road win by a single goal. Take Nashville (10*).

My selection is on Florida over Calgary at 9:35 pm et on Monday.

We'll fade the Flames off their 4-2 win over the Lightning on Saturday. That victory snapped a four-game losing streak but only improved Calgary to an even 7-7 on home ice this season. Florida checks in 9-8 on the road where it has performed exceptionally well defensively, limiting opponents to just 2.5 goals per game. The Panthers halted their two-game slide with a convincing 5-1 win in Edmonton on Saturday. Note that Calgary is just 9-15 in its last 24 games following a home win and worse still, 4-11 in its last 15 contests after a home victory in which it produced at least four goals. Florida is 6-1 after losing two of its last three games this season. Take Florida (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Nashville over Philadelphia at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Predators got off to a disappointing start this season by all accounts but have since worked themselves back into the Western Conference playoff picture. In fact, Nashville is red hot having won 10 of its last 13 games overall. The Flyers are already off to a perfect 2-0 start on their current road trip following wins in Arizona and Colorado. Note that they're a long-term 126-153 following a road victory by two goals or more, as is the case here, and 30-41 in their last 71 contests following consecutive wins by three goals or more. The road team did take both meetings in this series last season but that hasn't been a regular occurrence. Prior to last season, the home side had won four straight matchups in the series. Take Nashville (10*).

My selection is on Colorado over Calgary at 9:35 pm et on Monday.

The Avalanche have inexplicably lost consecutive games on home ice and five of their last six contests overall. I look for them to bounce back on Monday as they host a disappointing Flames squad that has lost three of its last four games. Despite its recent struggles, Colorado is still 9-4 on home ice this season, where it has outscored the opposition by an average margin of 1.2 goals. In stark contrast, Calgary checks in 5-9 on the road. You would have to go back four meetings here in Denver to find the last time the Flames posted a victory. I certainly don't think the Avs want to leave it to the last game of this five-game homestand (on Wednesday against Buffalo) to try to turn things around. Take Colorado (8*).

My selection is on Colorado over Philadelphia at 9:05 pm et on Saturday.

Cale Makar returned from injury for the Avalanche on Thursday against Winnipeg but it wasn't enough as Colorado lost 4-2 - its fourth defeat in its last five contests. I look for the Avs to bounce back on Saturday as they host a Flyers team coming off three straight victories. Note that Colorado has won four straight meetings in this series here in Denver. Philadelphia is a woeful 8-26 in its last 34 games after giving up one goal or less in its previous contest, as is the case here. Take Colorado (8*).

My selection is on New Jersey over Calgary at 4:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Hurricanes let the Flames off the hook on Thursday, blowing a 2-0 lead en route to a 3-2 defeat. I don't expect the Devils to suffer the same fate as Calgary's homestand continues on Saturday. New Jersey enters this game playing its best hockey of the season having won five of its last six games overall and two straight to open this road trip. The Devils have picked up right where they left off last season, thriving on the road with an 8-4 record. The Flames are just 6-6 on home ice and have been outscored by an average margin of 0.1 goal. Note that Calgary is just 18-29 in its last 47 games following a victory. Take New Jersey (8*).

My selection is on Pittsburgh over Florida at 7:05 pm et on Friday.

I think we'll see the Penguins best effort here after they dropped the opening two games of this three-game road trip. Following tonight's game Pittsburgh will have three full days off before taking the ice again at home against the Coyotes. It certainly doesn't want to be stewing on an 0-3 road trip and four-game losing streak. Note that despite the Pens 6-7 road record, they've actually outscored opponents by an average margin of 0.5 goals away from home. They catch the Panthers in a favorable spot here, noting that Florida checks in off a wild 5-4 victory over Dallas two nights ago and is just 26-32 in its last 58 games after scoring four goals or more in its previous contest. Pittsburgh is 4-3 in the last seven meetings in this series including an even 2-2 mark in its last four trips to Sunrise. Take Pittsburgh (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Carolina over Calgary at 9:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Hurricanes might as well have not even shown up to the rink in Edmonton last night as they were down 2-0 in the game's first minute and 4-0 less than 15 minutes in en route to a 6-1 defeat. The good news is, they have an immediate shot at redemption as they return to the ice after making the short trip to Calgary on Thursday. This is a talented, experienced and perhaps most important in this situation, well-coached team and one that I expect to see bounce back in this spot. The Flames had a solid November following an absolutely brutal October but they've gone back to their losing ways here in December, dropping consecutive games on home ice against the Canucks and Wild. This doesn't appear to be an ideal 'get right' matchup, noting the Canes have taken five of the last six meetings in this series. Take Carolina (10*).

My selection is on Dallas over Washington at 8:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Stars didn't fare well in their two-game set in Florida, dropping games in Tampa and Sunrise. Despite a tough back-to-back spot against a rested Capitals squad on Thursday, I look for the Stars to salvage a win in the finale of their three-game road trip. Note that Dallas is still 8-5 on the road this season and has reeled off four straight victories in the Nation's Capital going back to 2018. Washington checks in off back-to-back losses, outscored by a whopping margin of 10-1 in those two contests. Note that the Stars are 21-10 in their last 31 road games after giving up three goals or more in consecutive games, as is the case here. Washington is 2-8 in its last 10 home games following a road loss by two goals or more. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Pittsburgh over Tampa Bay at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday.

While I understand this is a revenge spot for the Lightning after the Penguins prevailed 4-2 in Tampa last week, I still think Pittsburgh is in better position to respond here following consecutive losses against the Flyers. Note that the Pens have owned this series in South Florida lately, taking each of the last four meetings at Amalie Arena. Tampa Bay snapped a four-game losing streak with a dominant 4-0 win over Dallas two nights ago. The Bolts are just 16-22 in their last 38 games when seeking revenge for a loss in which their opponent scored four goals or more. Take Pittsburgh (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on New York over Ottawa at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The road team has owned this series in recent years and that includes the Rangers taking each of the last three matchups in Ottawa. I like New York's chances again on Tuesday as it checks in playing some of its best hockey of the season having won six of its last seven contests overall. The Senators snapped their three-game losing streak with a 2-0 shutout win over the Kraken on Saturday but remain just 5-7 on home ice this season. Ottawa has scored a grand total of four goals over its last three games. In stark contrast, the Rangers scored six in their most recent game on Sunday. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Pittsburgh over Philadelphia at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

The Penguins outshot the Flyers 6-1 in overtime on Saturday night but couldn't find the back of the net and ultimately fell in a shootout. I look for them to bounce back on Monday as they get a quick rematch in Philadelphia. Note that the Flyers are just 5-7 on home ice this season, averaging just 2.8 goals per game. Meanwhile, the Penguins check in 6-5 on the road where they've put up an impressive 3.6 goals per contest. Pittsburgh has come away victorious in three of its last four trips to Philadelphia. Take Pittsburgh (8*).

My selection is on Vegas over Washington at 10:05 pm et on Saturday.

Every once in a while we'll step up with a play on a big favorite on the ice and this is one such spot. Vegas checks in off a 4-1 win in Vancouver. Meanwhile, Washington has won back-to-back games in Los Angeles and Anaheim. I like the revenge spot for the Caps here after they dropped a 3-0 decision in Washington in mid-November. Note that Washington is just 4-14 after scoring five goals or more in its previous game over the last two seasons, outscored by 1.0 goal on average in that situation. The Knights are 34-13 when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent over the same stretch, outscoring opponents by 1.2 goals on average in that spot. Take Vegas (8*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Toronto over Boston at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Leafs have undoubtedly had this game circled on their calendars since dropping a 3-2 decision in Boston on November 2nd - their fourth straight loss against the Bruins. Toronto checks into this rematch having won back-to-back games while Boston snapped a three-game losing streak with a 4-0 shutout win over the lowly Sharks on Thursday. The Leafs should be able to 'empty the tank' in this contest as they won't play again until December 7th in Ottawa. Meanwhile, Boston has a quick turnaround with a home game against Columbus on deck on Sunday. Take Toronto (10*).

My selection is on Winnipeg over Edmonton at 8:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Jets have lost two games in a row including a shutout defeat at the hands of the Stars to open this homestand on Tuesday. I look for them to bounce back on Thursday as they host the Oilers. Note that Winnipeg is 10-2 in its last 12 games after losing by two goals or more against a division opponent in their previous game, as is the case here. The Jets have outscored opponents by an average margin of 1.3 goals in that situation. While the Oilers have turned things around with three straight victories, they're still just 4-8 on the road this season where they've been outscored by an average margin of 0.8 goals. The Jets have taken three of four meetings in this series going back to the start of last season. Take Winnipeg (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Columbus over Montreal at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday.

The Canadiens have taken three straight meetings in this series - their longest such streak against the Blue Jackets since way back in 2015. I look for that run to come to an abrupt halt on Wednesday, however, as Montreal wraps up its long road trip in Columbus. Note that the Habs haven't taken the ice since Saturday when they suffered a 4-0 defeat in Los Angeles. This has been an interesting road trip as Montreal started in Boston on November 18th before travelling to California for a three-game in four-night set that saw it take four of a possible six points. Having been idle since Saturday, I believe the Habs are in danger of coming out flat against an opponent that doesn't draw a great deal of motivation on Wednesday. Montreal would be wrong to overlook the lowly Blue Jackets here as Columbus has been playing well. The Jackets check in winners of three of their last four games including a convincing 5-2 win over the first-place Bruins on Monday. Note that the Habs are a woeful 2-17 in their last 19 games following four or more consecutive road games. Take Columbus (10*).

Central Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Dallas over Winnipeg at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Jets had their five-game winning streak snapped at the hands of the Predators in Nashville on Sunday. They return home in a tough spot on Tuesday as they host a Stars squad that will certainly be in a foul mood after dropping back-to-back contests at home against Vegas and Calgary. Note that Dallas has actually been a much better team on the road than at home this season, going 7-2 including a victory right here in Winnipeg earlier this month. It's worth noting that this is only the Stars second losing streak this season. The last time they dropped two games in a row they responded with a 5-2 victory in Columbus the next time they took the ice. Dallas is a long-term 76-39 when coming off a home loss by three goals or more, as is the case here, and 13-4 in its last 17 road games after giving up four or more goals in its previous game. Meanwhile, Winnipeg is just 2-7 when coming off six or seven wins in its last eight games over the last three seasons and 0-5 the last five times it has come off eight victories in its last 10 contests. Take Dallas (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Colorado over Tampa Bay at 9:05 pm et on Monday.

The Lightning defeated the Hurricanes 8-2 in Carolina on Friday despite firing just 14 shots on goal. The Avalanche enter Monday's contest playing some of their best hockey of the season, winners of three games in a row and six of their last seven overall. You would have to go back four games to find the last time they allowed more than two goals. Note that the Lightning are just 13-17 after winning three of their last four games over the last two seasons while the Avalanche check in 56-18 in the same situation over the last three seasons. Colorado has dropped two straight home matchups against Tampa Bay but still owns a long-term 13-9-1 record at home against the Bolts. Take Colorado (10*).

My selection is on Florida over Winnipeg at 8:05 pm et on Friday.

The Jets took the opener of this Florida swing in overtime against the Lightning two nights ago. Sweeping through the Sunshine State doesn't happen all that often and I don't expect Winnipeg to accomplish that feat here. The Panthers were completely shut down by the Bruins on Wednesday but I like their chances of bouncing back here. Note that the Jets are a miserable 3-16 in their last 19 road games after winning four or more contests in a row, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 1.8 goals in that situation. Take Florida (8*).

My selection is on Arizona over Los Angeles at 9:05 pm et on Monday.

I don't think there's any question the Coyotes have had this game circled on their calendar since blowing a 4-1 lead in a 5-4 loss at home against the Kings on October 27th - their second straight defeat at the hands of Los Angeles at the time. I like Arizona to bounce back from Saturday's 5-2 loss in Winnipeg, noting it hasn't dropped consecutive games since, you guessed it, those two losses to the Kings on the 24th and 27th of October. Los Angeles checks in off back-to-back wins to salvage a 2-2 split on its four-game homestand. Note that the Kings are a long-term 47-72 when coming off a win by four goals or more, as is the case here, outscored by 0.5 goals on average in that situation. Meanwhile, the Coyotes are 10-4 in their last 14 home games following a road loss. Take Arizona (8*).

My selection is on Boston over Buffalo at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

It's not often we get a chance to back the Bruins coming off a loss and when they're in that position, they tend to prevail. Boston is a perfect 2-0 following a loss this season and should continue its dominance over division rival Buffalo on Tuesday, noting that the Bruins have taken seven of the last eight meetings going back to the start of the 2021-22 campaign. Buffalo was shut out in Pittsburgh on Saturday and while it entered the campaign with playoff aspirations, it has disappointed so far, winning just seven times in 15 games. The B's are slowly getting back to full strength on the blue line and I'm confident we'll see them impose their will in Buffalo on Tuesday. Take Boston (8*).

My selection is on Colorado over Seattle at 10:05 pm et on Monday.

Wrong place at the wrong time for the Kraken as they look to make it two in a row over the Avalanche. Colorado was blasted 8-3 by the Blues in one of the more stunning results of the young season on Saturday night at home. I'm confident we'll see the Avs bounce back here as they look to avenge last week's home loss against Seattle. This is one of those unique one-game road trips where the elite teams tend to take care of business. Meanwhile, Seattle is licking its wounds following a 4-1 home loss to the reeling Oilers on Saturday and checks in just 2-4 at Climate Pledge Arena this season, oustscored by 1.2 goals on average along the way. Take Colorado (8*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Toronto over Tampa Bay at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

The Leafs desperately need to stop the bleeding after suffering their fourth consecutive loss on Saturday night against Buffalo. I look for them to do just that as they host the division rival Lightning on Monday. Note that Toronto already took the first meeting between these two teams this season, in Tampa no less. It snapped a two-game losing streak on that occasion. Note that the Lightning are just 12-20 when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent in which they allowed four goals or more, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Leafs are 12-1 in their last 13 games after giving up five goals or more in their previous contest, which is also the situation here. Take Toronto (10*).

My selection is on Boston over Toronto at 7:35 pm et on Thursday.

The Bruins always get up for games against the Leafs, even if Toronto appears to be down right now, just 5-4 on the season and off consecutive losses. Boston has dropped just one game so far this season and checks in an incredible 20-4 in its last 24 games when coming off a one-goal victory, as is the case here. The Bruins have owned this series in Beantown over the years, going 45-27 in the last 72 meetings. It's not often we can back the B's at such a reasonable price at home. While they are missing Charlie McAvoy to a suspension right now, I'm confident they can overcome that and add to the Leafs misery on Thursday. Take Boston (8*).

My selection is on San Jose over Washington at 5:05 pm et on Sunday.

The Sharks have yet to win a game this season. They win on Sunday as they head to Washington to face the suddenly-surging Capitals. Note that Washington checks in 12-18 when playing at home after scoring three goals or more in consecutive games over the last three seasons. They're also 9-20 when playing at home after securing two wins in their last three games over the same stretch, outscored by 0.5 goals on average in that situation. The road team has gone a perfect 4-0 in the last four meetings in this series. Take San Jose (8*).

My selection is on Minnesota over Washington at 7:05 pm et on Friday.

The Wild dropped an ugly 6-2 decision in Philadelphia last night but I look for them to bounce back as they make the short trip to Washington to face the Capitals on Friday. The Caps should be a welcome sight at the other end of the rink given the Wild have gone a perfect 4-0 against them over the last two seasons and have come away victorious in three straight trips to the Nation's Capital. Washington pulled off a stunning 6-4 victory over the Devils two nights ago, successfully rallying with three unanswered goals in the third period after blowing a 3-0 lead in the second. That puts the Caps in a poor situation here as they're just 2-9 in their last 11 games following a road win by two goals or more and 1-8 in their last nine contests after scoring six goals or more in their previous game. Take Minnesota (8*).

My selection is on Pittsburgh over Colorado at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Penguins let the Stars off the hook on Tuesday, outshooting them 18-9 in the first period but only managing to find the back of the net once before Dallas responded with four unanswered goals in the second and third periods. That marked Pittsburgh's third straight loss following a 2-1 start. I look for the Pens to bounce back on Thursday as they host the undefeated Avalanche. Keep in mind, Pittsburgh did take both matchups in this series last season, outscoring Colorado by a combined 7-3 score. While the Avs continue to pile up victories, they've proven vulnerable at the back-end lately, allowing eight goals over their last two games. Note that they're 0-7 after allowing four goals or more in consecutive games over the last two seasons, outscored by 2.4 goals on average in that situation. Also note that Colorado has averaged just 3.1 goals per game when playing on the road after scoring five or more goals in its previous game (185-game sample size). I'm not convinced that will be enough on Thursday as I like the bounce-back spot for the Pens as they continue their four-game homestand. Take Pittsburgh (8*).

My selection is on Washington over New Jersey at 7:35 pm et on Wednesday.

We're seeing a similar trend developing to what we saw last season from the Devils as they played exceptionally well on the road (28-13) but were only average at home (24-17). So far this season, New Jersey is 1-2 in Newark but a perfect 2-0 on the road after last night's 5-2 victory in Montreal. Nothing has gone right for the Capitals so far this season as they check in 1-4, fresh off another lopsided defeat at the hands of the Leafs last night. I will get behind Washington on Wednesday, however, as it draws this divisional matchup, noting that it has taken six of the last seven meetings between these two teams in Newark. The Devils have been playing a lot looser than they probably would like with the 'over' having cashed in all five of their games to date. They've given up 11 goals in three home games this season. I think that opens the door for the slumping Capitals offense here - a team desperate to break out after being held to just seven goals in its first five games. Take Washington (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Pittsburgh over Dallas at 7:30 pm et on Tuesday.

Pittsburgh returns home licking its wounds after a winless two-game road trip in Detroit and St. Louis. I look for the Penguins to bounce back on Tuesday as they host the Stars. Dallas is off to a 3-0-1 start after notching back-to-back victories over the Ducks and Flyers, two teams that figure to wind up near the bottom of the NHL standings this season. While I am high on the Stars overall prospects this season, I don't like the spot here as they travel for a one-game trip against a non-conference foe. Note that Dallas is just 45-58 in its last 103 games following consecutive one-goal victories and 97-119 in its last 216 contests coming off an overtime win. This is the start of a key four-game homestand for the Pens before a stretch that sees them play 13 of their next 20 games on the road. Take Pittsburgh (10*).

My selection is on Calgary over Detroit at 5:05 pm et on Sunday.

We'll back the Flames to rebound following Friday's loss in Columbus as they catch Detroit in a tough back-to-back spot following yesterday's 5-2 win in Ottawa which marked its fourth straight victory. Ville Husso was the star for the Wings yesterday, turning aside 35-of-37 shots. He also stood on his head in last year's 2-1 home win over the Flames as he stopped 35-of-36 shots (Detroit managed only 17 shots in that contest). Calgary should be pleased to be facing Wings backup goaltender James Reimer on Sunday. He did record a shutout in his lone previous start this season (against Columbus) but I'm confident we'll see the Flames get to him here. Note that Detroit is a long-term 10-21 when coming off four straight games in which it scored at least four goals, as is the case here. Take Calgary (8*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Toronto over Tampa Bay at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Maple Leafs opened the season with back-to-back wins but have since seen their record fall to 2-2 with losses against the Blackhawks and Panthers. Toronto has scored just two goals in its last two games but I look for it to bounce back offensively here. Note that the Lightning have allowed three or more goals in all five games this season and should continue to struggle keeping pucks out of their net until Andrei Vasilevskiy is able to return between the pipes. Toronto is 33-9 when coming off two losses in its last three games over the last three seasons, outscoring opponents by 1.2 goals on average in that situation. The Leafs are also a long-term 56-43 (+10.2 net games) after scoring one goal or less in consecutive games. This is a 'revenge game' for the Bolts after being ousted by the Leafs in the first round of the playoffs. With that being said, the Leafs are 6-4 in their last 10 games in Tampa and I look for them to rise to the occasion again here. Take Toronto (10*).

My selection is on Columbus over Calgary at 7:05 pm et on Friday.

The Flames face a quick turn-around on Friday in Columbus after skating to a hard-fought 4-3 win in Buffalo last night. Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets have had three days to stew on a 4-0 loss suffered at home against the Red Wings on Monday. Note that Columbus is 8-4 when coming off a home loss by three goals or more since the start of last season. Calgary checks in 10-21 after scoring four or more goals in its previous contest over the same stretch. This matchup obviously carries a little extra meaning for Blue Jackets superstar Johnny Gaudreau as he faces his former team. Last year, Columbus held its own against Calgary, splitting a pair of matchups including a 3-1 victory here on home ice. Take Columbus (8*).

My selection is on Tampa Bay over Vancouver at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Lightning are coming off a disappointing 0-3 road trip that saw them face three up-and-coming Atlantic Division foes that are all gunning for their spot this season. Tampa Bay looked rather lethargic until the third period against Buffalo on Tuesday. While it did end up losing that game in overtime, perhaps the fact that it rallied to earn a point gives it a bit of a boost entering this matchup with the Canucks on Thursday. Vancouver was lifeless in Tuesday's shutout loss in Philadelphia. More regression could be on the way for the Canucks as this four-game road trip continues. Note that the Lightning have won six straight meetings in this series, scoring at least five goals in four of those games. Here, we'll note that Tampa Bay is 81-44 under head coach Jon Cooper when coming off consecutive losses, outscoring foes by an average margin of 0.7 goals in that situation. Take Tampa Bay (8*).

My selection is on Detroit over Pittsburgh at 7:35 pm et on Wednesday.

The Penguins certainly boast more high-profile talent but I think the Red Wings are playing better hockey out of the gates this season. Pittsburgh dropped an ugly 4-2 decision at home against the Blackhawks before rebounding with consecutive wins over the Capitals and Flames. Keep in mind, it didn't score in the first two periods against Calgary before exploding for five goals in the third. All in all, we've seen an uneven brand of hockey from the Pens through three games. Detroit has collected at least a point in all three games and checks in off consecutive wins over the Lightning and Blue Jackets. With 13 goals through three games, the Wings are firing on all cylinders right now. There's no reason for them to be intimidated here after taking two of three meetings in this series last season. Take Detroit (8*).

My selection is on Vancouver over Philadelphia at 6:05 pm et on Tuesday.

There's a lot to like about the Canucks right now. They were ripe for a letdown, giving up an early going against the Oilers in Edmonton on Saturday night but rather than folding the tent, they battled for 60 minutes and came away with a 4-3 win - their second straight victory over Edmonton to open the season. While they're not likely to remain undefeated through the end of this five-game road trip, I don't think their streak ends in Philadelphia. The Flyers got off to a surprisingly hot start last season but it was all downhill from there and we can expect more of the same from this rebuilding squad in 23-24. Philadelphia has split its first two games, winning in Columbus before dropping a 5-2 decision in Ottawa. I simply feel Vancouver has a lot more upside right now as it is getting terrific goaltending and has been scoring in bunches. The Flyers still have a big question mark between the pipes with Carter Hart once again struggling to the tune of a .891 save percentage through two games. I know it's early but Hart has never really settled into the gig in Philadelphia. Take Vancouver (8*).

My selection is on Tampa Bay over Ottawa at 7:05 pm et on Sunday.

It would be easy to get down on the Lightning following last night's dismal performance in Detroit (lost 6-4 and were outshot 42-25). Instead, we'll back the Bolts as they get right back on the ice against another divisional foe in Ottawa on Sunday. Note that they were in a similar situation in the preseason after giving up 50+ shots in a loss against the Panthers, rebounding with a 4-2 win in a quick rematch two nights later. Tampa Bay likely had this game circled on its current three-game road trip noting that it has dropped consecutive meetings in this series, allowing a whopping seven goals in both games. The Sens skated to a 5-2 win over the Flyers yesterday afternoon to even their record at 1-1. We'll note that they're just 11-21 when playing at home after scoring three goals or more in consecutive games over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 0.4 goals in that situation. Take Tampa Bay (8*).

My selection is on Pittsburgh over Washington at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

The Penguins let the Blackhawks off the hook on Tuesday, perhaps thinking they had two points in the bag up 2-0 in the second period. Of course a veteran team like Pittsburgh should know that you can never take anything for granted in today’s NHL, regardless the level of opposition. Here, I look for the Pens to bounce back against hated rival Washington on Friday night. The Capitals elected to more or less stand pat with their veteran roster during the offseason. This season will likely be more about Alex Ovechkin’s chase for the all-time scoring record than anything else. Take Pittsburgh (8*).

My selection is on Seattle over Nashville at 8:05 pm et on Thursday.

We've seen this line shift toward the Predators, likely due to the Kraken's lopsided 4-1 loss in Las Vegas two nights ago. Seattle didn't get much 'puck luck' in that game, outshooting the Golden Knights by a 33-28 margin. Meanwhile, the Predators opened their campaign with a 5-3 loss in Tampa, blowing a 3-2 third period lead in that defeat. There was really no excuse for Nashville to come out as flat as it did in that game as it was outshot 12-2 in the opening period. The Kraken took two of three meetings in this series last season, scoring 14 goals in the process. Note that Seattle has reeled off eight straight victories when playing on the road following a division game, outscoring opponents by 2.3 goals on average in that situation. Take Seattle (8*).

Stanley Cup Final Game of the Year. My selection is on Florida over Vegas at 8:20 pm et on Thursday.

Last round, the Golden Knights won Games 1 and 2 on home ice before prevailing in Game 3 in Dallas as well. Here, I don't anticipate such a walk in the park for Vegas as it makes to the trip across the continent to face the Panthers in Sunrise on Thursday. Florida has shown plenty of fight through the first two games of this series but has nothing to show for it, dropping consecutive lopsided affairs. Note that the Golden Knights are a woeful 4-13 all-time when coming off consecutive home wins by two goals or more, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 1.0 goal along the way. Also note that the Panthers are 20-8 when coming off three straight games in which they gave up three goals or more this season, which is also the situation here. Vegas has obviously won the last two matchups between these two teams but hasn't notched three consecutive victories in this series since 2019-20 - the only time that has occurred in the all-time series. Take Florida (10*).

My selection is on Florida over Vegas at 8:10 pm et on Monday.

After an emotional victory in Game 1 of this series on Saturday I look for the Golden Knights to suffer a bit of a letdown in Game 2, allowing the Panthers to rise up and even this series at one game apiece. While the Panthers haven't had a great deal of success against the Golden Knights in the all-time series between these two teams (they've never won in Las Vegas), they have managed to go 3-2 when coming off a loss by two goals or more in their previous matchup, as is the case here. Note also that Florida is 10-4 when playing on the road off a loss by two goals or more this season, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.9 goals in that situation. I didn't feel that Game 1 was as lopsided as the final score indicated, noting that the Panthers actually outshot the Knights by a 35-34 margin. Take Florida (8*).

Game of the Week. My selection is on Vegas over Florida at 8 pm et on Saturday.

You have to figure the Golden Knights couldn't have their guard any more raised as they host the upstart Panthers in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final on Saturday. I say that after Florida stole Games 1 and 2 in a building that's generally tough on opposing teams in Raleigh last round (it did the same in round two in Toronto as well) on its way to a series sweep. The Golden Knights are also coming off a loss in their most recent home game last Saturday against the Stars (before they won Game 6 in blowout fashion in Dallas). Here, we'll note that the home team won both regular season meetings between these two squads, including a 2-1 Panthers victory in their most recent matchup back in March. Note that the Knights check in an incredible 34-11 when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent over the last three seasons, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 1.2 goals in that situation. While the Panthers have fared exceptionally well against Eastern Conference opponents this season, they're just 13-19 against the Western Conference, allowing an average of 3.8 goals per game while being outscored by an average margin of 0.6 goals along the way. Take Vegas (10*).