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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*).

My selection is on Vegas over Dallas at 8:05 pm et on Monday.

We won with the 'over' in Game 5 of this series on Saturday but we'll switch gears and back the Golden Knights as they try again to close out the Stars on Monday. Note that Vegas is 14-6 when seeking revenge for a home loss against an opponent this season and 19-7 when seeking revenge for a loss where their opponent scored four goals or more. The Knights have been a terrific road team all season, going 31-17 and I'm confident they can come through for a second time in Dallas in this series to wrap things up on Monday. Take Vegas (8*).

My selection is on Vegas over Dallas at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Dallas Stars played a perfect road game on Sunday in Las Vegas - for just shy of 58 minutes anyway. It wasn't enough as the Golden Knights tied the game at the 17:38 mark of the third period before winning it just over a minute into overtime. Now the Stars are feeling all of the pressure as they return home for Game 3 on Tuesday. While all signs point to Dallas evening up the series, I believe the value is with the underdog Knights in this spot. Vegas goaltender Adin Hill has stepped in and performed admirably, stopping 186-of-200 shots (.930 save percentage) in these playoffs. While Hill is fresh, having only appeared in 36 games this season, Stars netminder Jake Oettinger looks like he might be running out of gas, and for good reason. Tuesday will mark his 78th appearance in goal for the Stars this season. In the playoffs, Oettinger has seen his save percentage drop to .901. Over his last four games he has posted an .882 save percentage. I absolutely love the Knights depth and simply feel that they're not going to roll over for the Stars with the scene shifting to Dallas on Tuesday. Here, we'll note that Dallas is just 5-9 when playing at home seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent this season, outscored by 0.4 goals on average in that situation. Meanwhile, Vegas is 22-10 when playing on the road coming off a victory this season, averaging 3.6 goals per game and outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 0.9 goals in that spot. Take Vegas (8*).

My selection is on Dallas over Vegas at 3:05 pm et on Sunday.

Game 1 of this series obviously could have gone either way as the Golden Knights ultimately prevailed in the early stages of overtime to grab a 1-0 series lead. I look for the Stars to answer back on Sunday. Note that Dallas is a perfect 7-0 when playing on the road seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent this season, outscoring foes by an impressive average margin of 2.8 goals in that situation. The Stars are 14-5 off a loss this season and haven't dropped consecutive games since March 14th and 16th. The Knights, meanwhile, are just 3-7 when playing at home after winning their previous contest in overtime, outscored by an average margin of 1.1 goal in that spot. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Edmonton over Vegas at 10 pm et on Sunday.

The Golden Knights rallied for a 4-3 win over the Oilers in Game 5 of this series on Friday. Now it's Edmonton's turn to bounce back once again as it looks to force a seventh-and-deciding game. I like the Oilers chances in this spot, noting that the Golden Knights haven't won consecutive games against Edmonton since back in February and March 2020. The Oilers haven't dropped back-to-back contests since February 25th and 27th. While Vegas has done a good job of keeping pace with Edmonton in this series and averages 3.3 goals per game on the season, that scoring average drops to 2.5 gpg when it checks in off a win over a division opponent, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Oilers average 3.9 gpg on the campaign but that number rises to 4.3 when coming off a one-goal defeat. Finally, we'll note that the Oilers are 13-3 off a road loss this season, outscoring opponents by 1.5 goals on average in that spot, and better still, they're 19-5 when seeking revenge for a same-season loss against an opponent this season, outscoring foes by an average margin of 1.4 goals in that situation. Take Edmonton (8*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Year. My selection is on Florida over Toronto at 7:10 pm et on Wednesday.

The Maple Leafs jumped ahead 1-0 early in Game 3 of this series on Sunday and might have thought the underdog Panthers would simply fold from there but that was far from the case as Florida ended up prevailing 3-2 in overtime. The Panthers have now won a season-high six straight games and while I won't make a habit of backing teams heading into 'uncharted territory' I'm willing to make an exception here. Toronto has now been held to exactly two goals in five straight games. That's just not going to cut it, particularly when you have a defense as vulnerable as Toronto does, noting that it has given up three goals or more in seven of nine playoff games to date. To make matters worse, the Leafs lost goaltender Ilya Samsonov to injury in Game 3 meaning Joseph Woll will likely get the start in goal on Wednesday. He's been sharp when called upon this season but suddenly has the pressure of Leafs Nation on his back after allowing the game-winning goal in overtime on Sunday, pushing the team to the brink of elimination. Note that Toronto is just 1-6 when playing on the road seeking revenge for two or more consecutive losses against an opponent over the last three seasons, outscored by 1.3 goals on average in that situation. Worse still, the Leafs are 0-5 when playing on the road seeking revenge for consecutive losses against a foe in which it scored three goals or more over the last two seasons, as is the case here, outscored by 1.8 goals on average in that spot. The Panthers have been an excellent 'positive-momentum' play this season, going a perfect 7-0 when coming off consecutive victories over division opponents this season, outscoring foes by an impressive average margin of 2.4 goals along the way. Going back over the last two seasons, Florida owns a perfect 5-0 mark after winning three straight games over divisional foes. Take Florida (10*).

Non-Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Dallas over Seattle at 9:40 pm et on Tuesday.

The Kraken took control of this series with a dominant 7-2 victory in Game 3 on Sunday but I look for the Stars to answer back and even the series on Tuesday. Note that Dallas hasn't lost consecutive games since March 14th and 16th. The Stars check in a perfect 6-0 when playing on the road seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent this season, outscoring foes by an impressive average margin of 1.8 goals in that situation. They're also 11-3 when playing on the road after allowing four goals or more in their previous game, outscoring the opposition by 1.5 goals on average in that spot. Meanwhile, the Kraken are just 2-7 when playing at home after winning their previous game by three goals or more this season, outscored by an average margin of 1.2 goals along the way. While Dallas did allow a whopping seven goals in Sunday's defeat, those type of performances have been few-and-far-between this season as it has been stingy, particularly on the road where it has given up just 2.6 goals per contest, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 0.8 goals in enemy territory. Take Dallas (10*).

Western Conference Second Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Edmonton over Vegas at 7:10 pm et on Saturday.

The Golden Knights took Game 1 of this series in a wild 6-4 affair that was probably a little closer than the final score indicates. Edmonton definitely didn't bring its 'A' game (apart from Leon Draisaitl) but it was still right there, pulling within a goal in the third period before the Knight sealed the victory with a late empty-netter. I'm confident we'll see the Oilers bounce back on Saturday. Note that Vegas hasn't won consecutive meetings between these two teams since 2020. Since then, the Oilers have gone 6-3 in this series. I've talked about teams heading into 'uncharted territory' quite often in these playoffs (both NHL and NBA) and I'll bring it up again here as Vegas has now won five straight games. It has only managed to win five or more games in a row twice previously this season and only once has hit won six or more consecutive games with that nine-game winning streak coming way back in late October-early November. Here, we'll note that the Knights have averaged just 2.1 goals per game and have been outscored by an average margin of 0.7 goals when playing at home off a win by two goals or more against a division opponent over the last two seasons (16-game sample size). Meanwhile, the Oilers have held opponents to just 2.5 goals per game and outscored foes by 0.8 goals on average when playing on the road after giving up five goals or more in their previous contest over the last two seasons (20-game sample size). Better still, Edmonton is a perfect 7-0 when playing on the road off a loss by two goals or more against a division foe over the last three seasons, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 2.1 goals in that spot. Finally, the Knights are 4-12 when coming off consecutive home victories by two goals or more in team history, as is the case here, outscored by 0.8 goals on average in that situation. Take Edmonton (10*).

My selection is on Dallas over Seattle at 9:40 pm et on Thursday.

This price may seem high at first glance but I believe it could be even higher. Scoring first (and early) might just have been the worst thing that could have happened to the favored Stars in Game 1 of this series on Tuesday. Dallas probably thought the relatively inexperienced Kraken would fold rather quickly and that this series might just be the lopsided affair that many were predicting after Seattle pulled off its stunning upset win over the heavily-favored Avalanche in Game 7 of round one just two nights earlier. Instead, Seattle answered right back and ultimately scored four first period goals before allowing the Stars to rally back from a two-goal third period deficit. The Kraken ultimately won that game in overtime but I look for the Stars to answer back on Thursday. Note that Dallas has now dropped consecutive matchups with Seattle after winning four of the first five all-time meetings in the series. The Stars have averaged 3.8 goals per game while outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.8 goals when playing at home seeking revenge for consecutive losses against an opponent as a favorite over the last three seasons (22-game sample size), as is the case here. While Dallas averages 3.5 goals per game this season, that number jumps to 3.8 when playing at home after allowing four goals or more in its previous contest (10-game sample size). As I noted in my analysis of Game 1 of this series, the Stars have had Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer's number, scoring 13 goals in three games against him going back to the start of last season. Dallas goaltender Jake Oettinger didn't have his best performance on Tuesday but actually kept the Stars in the game over the final two periods of regulation time and ultimately stopped 39-of-44 shots. The Stars haven't lost consecutive games since March 14th and 16th while the Kraken's most recent winning streak lasting more than two games (their current streak) came when they reeled off five straight wins from April 3rd to 10th (note that three of those victories came against the Coyotes and the other two were against the Canucks and Blackhawks - all non-playoff contending teams). Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on New York over New Jersey at 8:10 pm et on Monday.

The Rangers answered back with a resounding 5-2 home win on Saturday to force a seventh-and-deciding game in this series. While the home team has now won back-to-back contests, home ice advantage hasn't meant much in the long-term picture in this series with the visiting side prevailing in 14 of the last 25 matchups. The Devils find themselves in tough off that lopsided defeat on Saturday, noting that they're just 7-17 when playing at home seeking revenge for a loss in which they allowed five goals or more against an opponent over the last three seasons, outscored by an average margin of 1.1 goal in that situation. Say what you will about the Rangers up-and-down nature in this series but at least their best players have lived up their billing for the most part. Meanwhile, the Devils have received just four assists and a -1 rating from captain Nico Hischier and no points and a -3 from highly-touted pre-trade deadline acquisition Timo Meier. Jack Hughes can't shoulder the entire offensive load, noting that he has scored three of the team's 13 goals in this series but has found the back of the net just once in the last four games. Meanwhile, the Rangers finally uncovered some cracks in breakout goaltender Akira Schmid's armor on Saturday (he was pulled after allowing five goals on 29 shots). I'm comfortable backing the Blueshirts at an underdog price with all-world goaltender Igor Shesterkin having been at his best on the road all season, where he has recorded a .923 save percentage with New York winning 19 of his 28 starts. I'm still not sure we've seen his best game in this series. Take New York (8*).

Game of the Week. My selection is on New York over New Jersey at 8:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Rangers have inexplicably dropped three straight games and now face elimination at the hands of the rival Devils at Madison Square Garden on Saturday. New Jersey is an elite team - it wasn't simply going to roll over after digging itself an 0-2 hole in this series. Remember, just a week ago, the Rangers were returning home up 2-0 in the series and most were already punching their ticket to the next round. I do like the fact that Game 5 of this series was so lopsided in favor of New Jersey. Note that the Rangers have averaged 4.8 goals per game and outscored the opposition by 1.2 goals on average when coming off a road loss by two goals or more this season (five-game sample size). While they did lose in the same situation on Thursday, the Blueshirts are still 27-15 when seeking revenge for two or more consecutive losses against an opponent over the last three seasons, outscoring foes by an average margin of 1.2 goals along the way. You would have to go back to 2020-21 to find the last time the Devils won three straight meetings in this series. They would go on to lose the next matchup by a 6-1 score. Finally, we'll note that the Devils are a long-term 17-29 when coming off three straight games in which they allowed one goal or less, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Rangers are a long-term 117-87 when coming off three consecutive losses. Take New York (10*).

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

Inexplicably, we've only really seen the Avalanche truly raise their level of play once in this series, that coming in their 6-4 Game 3 victory right here in Seattle. From there, with a 2-1 series lead, it appeared the Avs would cruise but an overtime loss in Game 4 seemed to turn the tide back in the Kraken's direction and Seattle would go on to steal (they were fully deserving of the win) a victory in Colorado in Game 5. The Avs were without arguably the best defenseman in the world in Cale Makar for that contest due to suspension but he'll be back on Friday. Here, we'll note that Colorado has allowed just 2.1 goals per game and outscored opponents by 1.1 goal on average when coming off a one-goal home loss this season (nine-game sample size). Similarly, they've yielded just 2.2 goals per contest and outscored the opposition by an average margin of 0.7 goals when seeking revenge for a home loss against an opponent this season (14-game sample size). The Kraken are just 8-15 when coming off two wins in their last three games this season, outscored by 0.5 goals on average in that situation. These two teams have met 11 times since Seattle joined the league last season and it's proven to be a tightly-contested series with neither team managing to record three straight victories at any point (which is what the Kraken will be trying to accomplish here). I don't expect the defending Stanley Cup champions to go away quietly in this series. Take Colorado (8*).

My selection is on New York over New Jersey at 7:35 pm et on Thursday.

It seemed pretty clear that the Rangers got ahead of themselves after jumping out to a 2-0 lead in this series, with both wins coming on the road - in lopsided fashion. New Jersey responded with consecutive victories of its own in Manhattan so now the series shifts back to Newark all tied up at two games apiece. I look for the Rangers to regain the upper hand on Thursday, however. Both of these teams have been better on the road than at home this season so perhaps it should come as no surprise that the road team has won all four games in the series to date. Similar to the situation New Jersey was in on Saturday, the Rangers have now dropped back-to-back games for the first time since a four-game skid from February 18th to 25th. They've won on the road, scoring four, five and five goals, each of the last three times they've come off consecutive losses. Also note that New York is 12-3 when seeking revenge for consecutive losses against an opponent this season, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 1.8 goals in that situation. The Rangers are also a perfect 6-0 when playing on the road off a home loss against a divisional foe over the last two seasons, allowing just 1.0 goal per game on average and outscoring opponents by an impressive 2.3 goals per game in that spot. The Devils, meanwhile, are just 8-17 when playing at home off a win by two goals or more over the last two seasons, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 0.2 goals along the way. New Jersey is also a long-term 77-101 when coming off consecutive games in which it allowed one goal or less, which is also the situation here. Take New York (8*).

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

Sometimes you simply draw a bad opening round matchup and I think that's been the case for the Islanders in this particular series. Going back to the start of 2019, spanning a stretch of 19 meetings including two playoff series' between these Metropolitan Division foes, the Islanders have managed to win two out of three games on just one previous occasion. They failed to accomplish that feat again on Sunday (following Friday's 5-1 victory) as they dropped a 5-2 decision in a game they quite simply needed to win on home ice. The Hurricanes are banged-up right now but their injuries are up front, where they've proven they have considerable depth. Carolina is an extremely difficult team to break down defensively with one of the best six-deep defensive corps' in the league. It enters this game having allowed just 2.5 goals per game on home ice this season. That's in stark contrast to the Islanders, who are giving up 3.1 goals per game on home ice. Under Barry Trotz, the Isles were a fortress defensively, particularly on the road. That just hasn't been the case under the guidance of head coach Lane Lambert, however. New York has been one of the worst road teams in the league this season, winning only 17-of-43 games to date while being outscored by an average margin of 0.3 goals per game. Here, we'll note that New York is a woeful 12-28 when playing on the road seeking revenge for a same-season loss against an opponent over the last three seasons, outscored by 0.9 goals on average in that situation. Meanwhile, the Canes are riding a nine-game winning streak at home in the opening round of the playoffs, including taking all four matchups in Raleigh against the Bruins in their first round series last year. New York's best players just haven't stepped up in this series. Bo Horvat in particular - the team's big pre-trade deadline acquisition - only recorded his first point of the series in Sunday's 5-2 loss, and that short-handed goal came in garbage time when the game had long been decided. Carolina has employed a 'next man up' philosophy this season, losing the likes of Max Pacioretty, Andrei Svechnikov, Teuvo Teravainen and now rookie Jack Drury (he has an outside chance of playing on Tuesday after leaving Sunday's game) but continuing to press forward. Again, the Canes defense matches up exceptionally well with most opponents and the Islanders are no exception. One final note, Isles goaltender Ilya Sorokin is all-world to be sure and a worthy Vezina Trophy candidate this season. However, he hasn't appeared likely to steal a game in this series, posting a rather pedestrian .917 save percentage through the first four games. Note that he's now made 12 consecutive starts for the Isles and has had more than a single day off between games just twice going back to March 27th. Even the best goalies can wear down at this stage of the season and when you consider he's been between the pipes in 24 of New York's last 27 games, you have to wonder how much he has left in the tank (Carolina scored five goals on just 29 shots against him on Sunday). Take Carolina (8*).

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

Much like they did at the outset of this series when they dropped a 3-1 decision on home ice, the Avalanche appeared to take the Kraken's best punch early in Game 3 on Saturday, falling behind 1-0 before rallying for a 6-4 victory. Colorado has now reeled off 12 straight victories away from home with its last loss in enemy territory coming way back on March 4th in Dallas. Seattle has now dropped four of its last five games going back to the end of the regular season and has been outshot in all three contests in this series by a combined 110-88 margin. You have to wonder if the Kraken might consider a change between the pipes noting that Philipp Grubauer has posted a less-than-impressive .884 save percentage with Seattle winning only eight of his 21 starts on home ice this season. While that can work for some teams, as we saw with the Devils on Saturday in New York, I'm not sure it would be enough to turn the tide for the Kraken. Colorado has that extra gear to reach to and I think losing the opener of this series actually served it well in this opening round. Note that Colorado has been an excellent positive momentum play over the last two seasons, going 80-29 after winning four or five of its last six games, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.0 goal in that situation. When playing on the road off a win this season, the Avs have gone 22-6, outscoring foes by 1.2 goals on average. Better still, when on the road off consecutive victories, Colorado has posted a 13-2 record this season, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 1.6 goals along the way. The Kraken have thrived on the road this season, going 27-16 but haven't enjoyed the same success at home where they're just 20-22, allowing 3.2 goals per game at Climate Pledge Arena. The Avs have won three of four all-time meetings in Seattle with the lone loss coming last April in a game where Seattle had to hang on for a 3-2 victory after jumping ahead 3-0 in the first period. Take Colorado (8*).

My selection is on Edmonton over Los Angeles at 9 pm et on Sunday.

The Oilers are feeling a little short-changed after a controversial overtime finish in Game 3 of this series on Friday. I'm confident we'll see Edmonton bounce back from that defeat and even the series up at two games apiece on Sunday night in Los Angeles. The Oilers have been impressive at the best of times on the road this season, going 27-15 while outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.7 goals. But they've been even better when playing on the road off a road loss, posting an 8-1 mark while outscoring foes by 1.6 goals on average (averaging 4.2 goals per game in that situation). Edmonton is also 16-5 when seeking revenge for a same-season loss against an opponent this season, including 1-0 in that spot in this series, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 1.2 goals along the way. I have a lot of respect for the Kings and have backed them plenty of times over the course of the season, however they're playing with a rather small margin for error in this series, having been outshot in all three previous games by a combined 117-90 margin. Noting that Los Angeles is still just 16-35 under head coach Todd McClellan when facing opponents that outscore their foes by an average margin of 0.3 goals or more per game, which is the situation here, I look for the Oilers to prevail. Take Edmonton (8*).

My selection is on New Jersey over New York at 8 pm et on Saturday.

While the Rangers own a 2-0 stranglehold in this series after stealing Games 1 and 2 in Newark, I don't think we're going to see the Devils simply roll over with the series shifting to Manhattan for Game 3 on Saturday. New Jersey won a game here at Madison Square Garden in the regular season and actually pulled off three straight victories on the road against the Blueshirts as recently as 2020-21. Of course, the Devils have played their best hockey on the road this season, averaging 3.7 goals per game and outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 0.8 goals. Interestingly, Rangers all-world goaltender Igor Shesterkin has been slightly weaker at home this season, posting a .913 save percentage while posting a 20-13 record in his 33 home starts. Home ice advantage is often overplayed in the postseason and I do think that's the case here, keeping in mind, only one of eight teams managed to hold serve at home in both games at the start of these playoffs (Carolina). While the Rangers have won consecutive games over the Devils, they haven't posted three straight victories in this series since late 2021 into 2022. Finally, we'll note that New Jersey is 12-7 when playing on the road seeking revenge for a home loss by two goals or more over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals on average in that situation. Better still, the Devils are 8-2 when on the road seeking revenge for a home loss by three goals or more over the same stretch, as is the case here, outscoring foes by 1.7 goals on average. Take New Jersey (8*).

Eastern Conference First Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Boston over Florida at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

UPDATE: Patrice Bergeron has been ruled OUT which shouldn't come as a surprise. What is unexpected is that goaltender Linus Ullmark is questionable to start. Even if he can't go, I'll still recommend a play on the Bruins as they have one of the best backup goaltenders in the league in Jeremy Swayman who owns a .920 save percentage on the season (.912 on the road where the Bruins have gone 13-6 in his 19 starts).

Most had written off the Panthers prior to their Game 2 victory in Boston on Wednesday, perhaps including the Bruins as they came out flat on home ice and as a result are tied at one game apiece as this series shifts to Sunrise on Friday. I'm not overly concerned about Boston's outlook in this series. For my money, the B's have one of the best coaching staffs in the league, led by Jim Montgomery. I don't think it will take much at all for him to get his experienced group ready to bounce back in Game 3. We hadn't seen the Bruins play as poorly as they did on Wednesday since suffering a 6-3 loss in Chicago way back on March 14th. They followed up that ugly effort with a near-flawless 3-0 road win in Winnipeg two nights later. In fact, the Bruins are 38-13 off a loss over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 0.8 goals on average. Perhaps better still, Boston is 19-4 when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent this season, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 1.6 goals in that situation. While the Panthers are 43-41 overall this season, they're just 16-26 after scoring four goals or more in their previous contest, as is the case here. While the Panthers have posted consecutive wins over the Bruins as recently as 2019, you would have to go all the way back to the 2006-07 campaign to find the last time they beat the Bruins in two straight matchups in the same season. Take Boston (10*).

Western Conference First Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Vegas over Winnipeg at 10 pm et on Thursday.

The Jets won Game 1 of this series by a lopsided score of 5-1 two nights ago but that final score didn't tell the whole story. It was a 2-1 game after two periods with Winnipeg pulling away late thanks to a pair of empty-net goals. Make no mistake, the Golden Knights came out inexplicably flat, managing just 17 shots on goal in the entire game. Perhaps given the fact they had swept the regular season series, were at home and had Mark Stone back in the lineup, a win would be assured. That simply wasn't the case as the Jets played a perfect playoff road game and earned at least a split in Las Vegas. Here, I'm confident we'll see the Golden Knights answer back, noting that they've only once previously lost consecutive home games against the Jets in their franchise history, and those two defeats came two-plus years apart in 2019 and 2022 (due to Covid-related scheduling quirks). Note that the Knights are 23-11 when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent this season, outscoring the opposition by 0.7 goals on average in that situation. It's not as if this was a team playing poorly down the stretch. Quite the opposite, in fact, as Vegas secured a Pacific Division title thanks to going 24-9 over its final 33 regular season games. Over that stretch, the Knights lost consecutive games on only two occasions. They haven't dropped two straight games at home since January 14th to 19th when they lost three in a row here at T-Mobile Arena (that was in the midst of a 1-7 slide). Note that the Jets check in averaging just 2.3 goals per game after winning six or seven of their last eight games this season, as is the case here, outscored by 0.8 goals on average in that situation (15-game sample size). Meanwhile, the Knights have averaged 3.9 goals when seeking revenge for a loss in which they scored one goal or less over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.0 goal (17-game sample size). Take Vegas (10*).

My selection is on Toronto over Tampa Bay at 7 pm et on Thursday.

The Maple Leafs already had their share of doubters making their voices loud and clear leading into this series - that's what happens when you're a high-profile team that hasn't made it past the first round in what seems like an eternity. Of course, the noise is even louder after Toronto dropped the opener of this series in blowout fashion on Tuesday. I'm confident we see the Leafs respond favorably in Game 2 on Thursday, however. While Toronto hasn't been able to win a first round series in nearly two decades, it has had plenty of success on an individual game level. In fact, the Leafs are 11-3 in the first five games of a series when coming off a loss going back to 2013. Over the last three seasons, Toronto is 30-7 when seeking revenge for a home loss against an opponent, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 1.4 goals in that spot. Better still, the Leafs are 13-1 when playing at home off a loss by two goals or more over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 1.9 goals on average along the way. The Lightning have to be pleased with stealing a game in Toronto when you consider they're just 19-23 on the road this season, where they've been outscored by an average margin of 0.5 goals. Leafs goaltender Ilya Samsonov has to shoulder some of the blame for their Game 1 loss as he wasn't sharp after being so good down the stretch. On the season, Samsonov still owns a solid .921 save percentage on home ice. On the flip side, Bolts netminder Andrei Vasilevskiy has had a down year by most accounts, entering Thursday's game with a .900 save percentage over his last four games and a .912 save percentage on the road this season. The Leafs will be without Michael Bunting as he's been suspended for his questionable hit on key Lightning defenseman Eric Cernak in Game 1. That's probably not a bad trade-off for the Leafs as Cernak will miss Game 2, severely testing Tampa Bay's defensive depth with all-world d-man Victor Hedman questionable to play due to injury as well. Finally, we'll note that the Bolts are just 3-8 when playing on the road after scoring three goals or more in four consecutive games this season, as is the case here, outscored by 1.7 goals on average in that situation. Take Toronto (8*).

Central Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Dallas over Minnesota at 9:30 pm et on Wednesday.

Perhaps the Stars got caught reading some of their own press leading up to this series as many picked them as a possible sleeper team to come out of the Western Conference. Regardless, it was a sluggish start on home ice for Dallas as it was outshot 29-15 through the first two periods of Game 1 (but remained level at two goals apiece) before waking up and outshooting the Wild 38-19 the rest of the way in an eventual 3-2 double-overtime loss. As if the Stars needed any more fuel for their fire, they lost Joe Pavelski to a head injury following a questionable hit from repeat-offender Matt Dumba (he won't be suspended for the hit). Pavelski has given the Stars nearly a point-per-game this season, something they likely weren't counting on heading into the campaign. I do think Dallas has more than enough depth (and experience) up front to make up for Pavelski's absence should he be sidelined on Wednesday. Here, we'll note that the Stars have held the opposition to just 2.5 goals per game and outscored foes by 1.0 goal on average when coming off a loss this season (33-game sample size). The Wild check in 4-10 when coming off a road win over a division opponent over the last two seasons, allowing 3.5 goals per contest and outscored by an average margin of 0.8 goals in that situation. Minnesota has now taken consecutive matchups against the Stars but hasn't won three in a row in this series since 2020-21. Game 1 could have gone either way but the Stars have to at least be happy with the way they played over the game's final two-plus periods. Knowing this series will only get tougher as it progresses with the Wild expected to get both John Klingberg and Joel Eriksson Ek back in the lineup sooner rather than later, evening this series up on home ice is obviously paramount for Dallas on Wednesday. Take Dallas (10*).

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

We actually won with the Devils in each of the last two meetings between these two teams, most recently in their 2-1 victory here in Newark on March 30th. I won't hesitate to switch gears on Tuesday, however, as these two old Patrick Division rivals renew acquaintances in the postseason. The fact that New Jersey has won the last two matchups between these two teams is notable. The Devils haven't won three consecutive meetings in this series since 2020-21. They've met 14 times since. To find the last time New Jersey won three straight matchups in the same season you would have to go all the way back to 2013, when it still had Hall-of-Fame goaltender Martin Brodeur between the pipes. The Rangers also enter this playoff series on the heels of consecutive losses to close out the regular season. Of course those setbacks were of little consequence with playoff positioning already all but settled. Here, we'll note that the Rangers are 15-7 when playing on the road after scoring two goals or less in consecutive games over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 0.4 goals on average in that situation. They're also 26-14 when seeking revenge for consecutive losses against an opponent over the same stretch, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 1.2 goals in that spot. The Devils check in off consecutive wins to close out the regular season, including a come-from-behind 5-4 overtime victory in Washington last time out. Note that they're just 15-24 when playing at home after scoring four goals or more in their last game over the last three seasons. While expectations are high for the Rangers entering these playoffs, I think starting on the road might be for the best as it does relieve some of the pressure. Note that New York was at its best away from home this season, going 24-17 while outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.8 goals. Take New York (10*).

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

The Lightning are reeling right now, losers of three games in a row, all on the road mind you. The Bolts are 27-7-5 on home ice this season and here, we'll note that they're 37-9 when playing at home off a loss over the last three seasons, averaging 4.0 goals and outscoring opponents by 1.8 goals on average in that situation. Over the same stretch, Tampa Bay has also gone 28-7 when seeking revenge for a same-season loss against an opponent, as is the case here, allowing just 2.1 goals and outscoring the opposition by 1.6 goals on average in that spot. The Maple Leafs check in off a 2-1 win over the Panthers in Sunrise last night. As I've noted many times before, sweeping a two-game trip to Florida is never easy and I expect the Leafs to find that out once again tonight. Note that the Leafs have won their last two games but have gone 9-14 when coming off consecutive victories this season, outscored by 0.3 goals on average in that situation. Toronto is also a long-term 76-100 after holding three straight opponents to two goals or fewer, as is the case here. With neither team able to move up or down in the standings, the first round playoff series between them is already locked-in. With that being said, the Bolts will certainly be eager to right the ship in their final two regular season contests and I expect them to do just that right here. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Vancouver at 10:35 pm et on Monday.

The Kings have now lost three games in a row - only the second time all season they've done so. On the previous occasion, they bounced back with a 5-2 victory over the Sharks in their next game. Here, they'll have the opportunity to rebound against another non-playoff bound opponent in the Canucks. I look for them to take full advantage. Note that Los Angeles is 21-14 after losing five or six of its last seven games over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 0.5 goals in that situation. Better still, the Kings are 18-9 after losing three of their last four contests over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 0.7 goals on average in that spot. Finally, they're 9-1 after allowing four goals or more in consecutive games this season, which is also the situation here, outscoring opponents by 1.3 goals on average along the way. Take Los Angeles (8*).

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

It's been a struggle for the Kings over the last couple of games as they sorely miss the likes of Kevin Fiala and Mikey Anderson who are among those sidelined with injuries as we wind down the regular season. The Avalanche are dealing with injuries of their own and off three consecutive victories, I believe they're in for a letdown on Saturday. The Kings are still 25-14 on home ice this season where they've averaged an impressive 3.6 goals per game. Here, we'll note that they're 14-7 when coming off a loss by three goals or more against a division opponent over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.7 goals in that spot. They're also an impressive 10-2 when coming off consecutive losses this season, averaging 4.1 goals per game and outscoring the opposition by 1.3 goals on average in that situation. Take Los Angeles (8*).

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

The Kings came out flat and ultimately fell by a 3-1 score at home against the red hot Oilers two nights ago. The fact that Los Angeles was able to stay in that game at all, tying proceedings at a goal apiece early in the third period, was impressive after it had just clinched a playoff berth three nights earlier with a win in Vancouver. Here, we'll note that the Kings check in 20-12 when coming off a loss this season and 24-15 when following up a defeat by two goals or more over the last two seasons, averaging 3.2 goals per game and outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.5 goals in that latter situation. The Golden Knights continue to pace the Pacific Division but are just 2-3 over their last five games. While the Kings have tightened things up defensively down the stretch, the Knights have yielded three goals or more in five of their last six contests. Of course, that might have something to do with the fact that they're missing the top two goaltenders on their depth chart, not to mention stud defenseman Shea Theodore due to injuries. The Kings have injury concerns of their own with Kevin Fiala and Mikey Anderson among those missing but I look for them to rally once again here, noting the importance of potentially catching the Oilers for second-place in the Pacific Division, and home ice advantage in the first round. The Kings currently sit three points back with four games remaining (including a game-in-hand). Take Los Angeles (8*).

Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Los Angeles over Edmonton at 10:35 pm et on Tuesday.

The Kings have gotten through a tough part of their schedule that saw them play six games in nine nights in five different cities. Still, they remain within striking distance of the first-place Golden Knights in the Pacific Division (and top spot in the Western Conference). I like this quick revenge spot for Los Angeles after it suffered a 2-0 loss in Edmonton last week, despite outshooting the Oilers 43-37 in that contest. Here, we'll note that the Kings are 7-2 when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent in which they were shut out over the last two seasons. L.A. currently sits three points back of the Knights but still has one game remaining against Vegas coming up on Thursday. Of course, the Oilers are technically also within arm's reach of the Knights. They still have this back-to-back spot to deal with (they'll play in Anaheim tomorrow night) and also play four of their final five regular season games on the road. Edmonton is coming off back-to-back shutouts but has till allowed exactly four goals in five of its last eight contests. Take Los Angeles (10*).

Pacific Division Game of the Year. My selection is on Los Angeles over Seattle at 10:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Kings have gotten nothing out of their current road trip, dropping consecutive decisions in Calgary and Edmonton, scoring a grand total of one goal along the way (and none in the last five periods). We're talking about a small sample size when it comes to this team struggling and I'm confident we'll see them bounce back on Saturday in Seattle. Note that Los Angeles hasn't lost three games in a row since mid-January. Meanwhile, Seattle checks in off a blowout win over the lowly Ducks on Thursday but hasn't won consecutive games since reeling off five straight wins in late February-early March. The Kraken are winless at 0-6 when playing at home after giving up one goal or less in their previous contest this season, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 1.9 goals in that situation. The Kings on the other hand are 22-15 when coming off a road loss and 34-21 after dropping two of their last three games over the last two seasons. This is undoubtedly a game Los Angeles has had circled on its calendar having dropped all three previous meetings in this series this season, including a wild 9-8 defeat on home ice back on November 29th. Keep in mind, the Kings went 3-1 against the Kraken in Seattle's inaugural NHL campaign last season. Take Los Angeles (10*).

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

While I've been high on the Rangers in the second half of the season that doesn't mean that I won't look for spots to fade the Blueshirts. Off three consecutive wins, I see this as an ideal spot to go against New York and we'll do so by backing a desperate Devils team that has run into some resistance going 2-6 over their last eight contests. It's certainly not time to push the panic button in the swamp. New Jersey has already clinched a playoff spot and remains within striking distance of the first-place Hurricanes in the Metropolitan Division. The Rangers completed a two-game road sweep of the Hurricanes and Panthers last week but are just 5-5 in their last 10 contests away from home. Off an ugly 5-1 loss on Long Island two nights ago, look for the Devils to bounce back on home ice. Take New Jersey (10*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Calgary at 9:05 pm et on Tuesday.

I have no problem going back to the well fading the Flames after missing with the Sharks on the puck-line here in Calgary on Saturday (a late empty-net goal cost us that win). Note that Calgary is just 3-7 off a home win in which it scored four or more goals this season, as is the case here. Meanwhile the Kings are 16-9 under head coach Todd McLellan after allowing six goals or more in their previous contest, which is the situation here off Sunday’s wild 7-6 win over St. Louis. The Kings took the last meeting between these two teams by an 8-2 score at home. The Flames would love to get their revenge here but I think they’re a team going nowhere right now and will gladly fade them in a favored role. Take Los Angeles (9*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Vancouver at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday.

Simple fade of the Canucks here as they come off a weekend road sweep in Dallas and Chicago. Vancouver had to hang on in the third period in both of those games but ultimately prevailed. Here, I expect the Canucks to be in tough against a Blues team that certainly hasn’t quit on the season despite being out of contention (much like Vancouver). On Sunday St. Louis fell just short in a wild 7-6 loss in Los Angeles, ending a streak of five straight games in which it collected at least a point. While the Blues are surprisingly healthy at this late stage of the season, the Canucks are banged-up and I don’t expect a peak performance from them at the end of this three-game road trip. Take St. Louis (8*).

My selection is on Seattle over Minnesota at 8:05 pm et on Monday.

The Wild sit in first place in the Central Division but the Avalanche (and the Stars) are certainly applying some pressure with both teams sitting just one point behind. Meanwhile, Seattle has to like where it sits in its second NHL campaign, currently holding down the top Wild Card spot with a seven-point cushion over the first team out of contention in the Calgary Flames. Note that the Kraken are only three points behind the Oilers for third place in the Pacific Division, holding a game-in-hand. Seattle didn't just beat Nashville on Saturday, it absolutely crushed it, scoring seven goals while outshooting the Preds by a 39-16 margin. The Kraken have scored 17 goals over their last four games. Meanwhile, Minnesota comes off a 3-1 home win over the lowly Blackhawks. I haven't been overly impressed by the Wild lately. They're 5-3 over their last eight games but none of the victories have been all that impressive, with the exception being a 2-1 win in New Jersey. They've lost two of their last three games on home ice and average just 2.9 goals per game here this season. In stark contrast, the Kraken check in averaging an impressive 3.8 goals per game on the road this season, where they've gone 24-13. Take Seattle (8*).

Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Vegas over Calgary at 9:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Flames throttled the Golden Knights by a 7-2 score, on the road no less, when these two teams last met on March 16th. I look for Vegas to get its revenge on Thursday as it goes for its third win in a row. Note that Calgary has taken consecutive meetings against Vegas only once since the Golden Knights joined the league in 2017. That came all the way back in 2018. The recent loss to the Flames was the lone blemish on an otherwise flawless record for the Knights going back to March 9th. Vegas checks in 6-1 over its last seven contests. Meanwhile, the Flames continue to struggle. They are coming off a win on Tuesday but that came at the expense of the lowly Ducks. Calgary has managed to post consecutive wins just once since January 26th. In fact, the Flames longest previous winning streak this season lasted only three games, indicating what a difficult campaign it has been. The Knights know that the finale of this western Canadian road trip will be tough as they'll face the red hot Oilers in Edmonton on Saturday. I look for them to assure themselves of a winning trip with a victory on Thursday. Take Vegas (10*).

My selection is on Vegas over Vancouver at 10:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Canucks swept their weekend set in California, defeating both the Kings and Ducks to improve to 7-1 over their last eight games. Of course that wasn't really part of the plan as this was a team that offloaded talent prior to the trade deadline and was once thought to be a contender in the Connor Bedard sweepstakes. Their recent run has put any talk of that to bed and while the Canucks are admittedly playing well right now, I expect them to have their hands full with the revenge-minded Golden Knights on Tuesday. Vegas dropped its most recent matchup with Vancouver by a 5-1 score on home ice way back in November. The road team has actually won four of the last five meetings in this series. Here, we'll note that Vegas has played its best hockey on the road this season where it has gone 21-12 while outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 0.7 goals. In stark contrast, the Canucks are 16-18 on home ice where they've been outscored by 0.4 goals on average. I think the Knights made one of the more savvy pre-trade deadline deals acquiring Ivan Barbashev from the Blues in exchange for prospect Zach Dean. Barbashev has fit in nicely on the Knights top line alongside Jack Eichel and Jonathan Marchessault. The Knights also boast one of the strongest blue lines in the NHL in my opinion - certainly among the best in terms of their top two D-pairings with Alec Martinez and Alex Pietrangelo followed by Brayden McNabb and Shea Theodore. Jonathan Quick likely gets the nod between the pipes on Tuesday and while he had a bad game against the Flames in his most recent start, the Knights have gone 4-1 in his four starts since joining the team. Take Vegas (8*).

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

We'll fade the Avalanche here on the heels of three straight wins including last night's come-from-behind 2-1 shootout win in Toronto. The Senators have undoubtedly had this rematch circled on their calendar dropping a embarrassing 7-0 meeting in Colorado back in January. Ottawa enters with its playoff hopes fading fast after a disastrous 1-4 road trip out west. The Sens are back home though, where they've gone 19-14 and have outscored opponents by an average margin of 0.6 goals per game this season. Also note that Ottawa is a long-term 81-67 when coming off consecutive road losses, as is the case here. Take Ottawa (8*).

My selection is on Detroit over Nashville at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday.

We won with the Predators in an underdog role in Los Angeles on Saturday but needed a shootout to go our way to get there. In fact, Nashville needed extra time to secure both of its weekend victories against the aforementioned Kings and Ducks. Missing a number of key contributors, the Preds are playing with a small margin for error right now and I look for them to get tripped up by the Red Wings on home ice on Tuesday. Detroit has to be feeling pretty good about itself after going toe-to-toe with the best team in the league, the Boston Bruins, in a home-and-home set over the weekend. The Wings split that two-game series, only missing out on forcing overtime in the front half thanks to a late goalpost. Note that Detroit is a perfect 4-0 when playing on the road off a home victory by two goals or more this season, outscoring opponents by an impressive average margin of 2.5 goals in that situation. Meanwhile, Nashville is a woeful 4-14 when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent this season, as is the case here after Detroit skated to a 3-0 home victory in the two teams' first matchup back in November. Take Detroit (8*).

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

Few bettors want a piece of the Predators against the red hot Kings on Saturday as Nashville comes off consecutive losses on the road against non-playoff contending teams in the Canucks and Coyotes. While the Preds are banged-up right now, missing a number of key contributors, I like their chances of rising to the occasion as they catch the Kings in a bit of a flat spot off a big road win over the Avalanche two nights ago. Note that the Preds are a long-term 83-55 when coming off consecutive road losses while the Kings are just 97-120 when coming off six or seven wins in their last eight games, as is the case here. Take Nashville (8*).

My selection is on San Jose over St. Louis at 8:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Sharks get an opportunity at quick revenge after dropping a 6-3 home decision against the struggling Blues last week. Most bettors will probably want no part of San Jose here after its ugly 6-0 loss in Colorado two nights ago. Despite that lopsided defeat, the Sharks are still an even 1-1 on this road trip and I'm not convinced they're the weaker team in this matchup. The Blues have essentially gone into 'tank mode' after dealing away several key pieces prior to the trade deadline. That aforementioned victory over the Sharks was their only win over their last nine games and here we'll note that they're just 14-22 when playing at home off a loss against a division opponent over the last three seasons, outscored by 0.8 goals on average in that situation. Take San Jose (8*).

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

We'll fade the Penguins off their come-from-behind victory over the Blue Jackets on Tuesday. New York comes in playing arguably its best hockey of the season having won six of its last nine games including a pair of victories over Pittsburgh over that stretch. The Pens have been sieve-like defensively, allowing a whopping 39 goals over their last 10 games. Goaltender Tristan Jarry has posted a .884 save percentage over his last four games while Isles all-world netminder Ilya Sorokin owns a .943 save percentage over the same stretch. I get the revenge angle in support of the Pens here but I simply feel the Isles are the better team playing better hockey. Take New York (8*).

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

The Golden Knights had their three-game winning streak snapped at the hands of the Panthers in Sunrise two nights ago but I look for them to bounce back as they complete their two-game set in Florida against the Lightning on Thursday. Tampa Bay did bust out of its slump with a 5-2 win over Philadelphia on Tuesday but faces a much more difficult challenge here. It's worth noting that the Bolts aren't even a .500 team going back to mid-January having posted a 9-12 record over their last 21 games. Even goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy has shown cracks in his armor, posting a .890 save percentage over his last four games. This is a Lightning squad that has played a ton of hockey over the last few years and I think it's starting to catch up to them. Take Vegas (8*).

My selection is on Minnesota over Calgary at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Flames managed to pull out a wild 5-4 victory in Dallas last night, scoring with seven seconds remaining in the third period to secure the much-needed win. While they would certainly like to get some quick revenge against the Wild after dropping a 3-0 decision against them at home on Saturday, I don't believe they're well-positioned to do so here. Note that Calgary is just 3-10 when seeking revenge for a home loss by two goals or more against an opponent over the last two seasons, outscored by an average margin of 0.9 goals in that situation. The Wild have been a play-on team when at home off a win over the last two seasons, as is the case here, going an impressive 37-10 in that spot while outscoring opponents by 1.4 goals on average. To illustrate just how well Minnesota has been playing lately, consider that it hasn't suffered a loss by two goals or more since February 9th. Since then, it has gone 9-3, not allowing more than three goals in any of those 12 contests. Take Minnesota (8*).

Revenge Game of the Month. My selection is on Tampa Bay over Pittsburgh at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Lightning inexplicably came out flat on Tuesday against the Panthers, falling behind 3-0 in the first period in an eventual 4-1 defeat. I certainly didn't anticipate such a poor effort from the Bolts after their embarrassing 7-3 loss in Pittsburgh on Sunday. Here, Tampa Bay has an opportunity to atone for its recent missteps as it hosts the Penguins in a quick revenge spot on Thursday. While the Penguins check in just 24-27 after scoring three goals or more in consecutive games over the last two seasons, as is the case here, the Lighting have gone an incredible 18-2 when coming off three losses in their last four games over the last three seasons, which is the situation they're in on Thursday. That's not to mention the fact that the Bolts have posted a terrific 28-4 record when playing at home seeking revenge for a same-season loss against an opponent over the same stretch, outscoring the opposition by 1.8 goals on average along the way. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

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

The Lightning effectively punted the second half of their back-to-back road set over the weekend as they started backup goaltender Brian Elliott in Pittsburgh on Sunday. The result was an ugly 7-3 loss. Here, I'm confident we'll see the revenge-minded Bolts bounce back against a Panthers squad that schooled them by a 7-1 score in Sunrise earlier this month. We'll note that Tampa Bay is an incredible 23-4 when playing at home seeking revenge for a loss where their opponent scored four goals or more over the last three seasons, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 2.0 goals in that situation. The Panthers certainly haven't been the same team on the road as they have been at home this season, going 13-20 in enemy territory while being outscored by an average margin of 0.7 goals per contest. With both Sasha Barkov and Sam Bennett still on the shelf with injuries, they're going to be in tough against the Bolts, especially noting that Tampa Bay is a long-term 46-14 under head coach Jon Cooper when playing at home after giving up five goals or more in their previous contest, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.2 goals along the way. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Vegas over Calgary at 9:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Flames delivered a much-needed 6-3 win over the Coyotes in Arizona last night but I'm not sold on them keeping it rolling as they head to Las Vegas to take on the Golden Knights on Thursday. Vegas had its five-game winning streak stopped at the hands of the suddenly red hot Blackhawks in Chicago two nights ago. That came by way of a shootout. Here, I'm confident we'll see the Golden Knights bounce back on Thursday, noting that they've gone 17-13 on home ice this season, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.3 goals and own a perfect 7-0 all-time record against the Flames here at T-Mobile Arena. The Flames haven't won consecutive games since January 21st and 23rd and despite last night's strong performance I still believe head coach Darryl Sutter's days are numbered behind the bench. Note that the Flames are just 7-14 after scoring four goals or more in their last game this season, outscored by 0.4 goals on average in that spot. They're 1-5 after scoring six goals or more in their previous contest, outscored by an average margin of 1.0 goal in that situation. Vegas, meanwhile, will be looking to improve on its terrific 29-10 record when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent over the last three seasons, as is the case here after dropping a 3-2 decision in Calgary back in October. It has outscored the opposition by 1.3 goals on average in that spot. Take Vegas (10*).

My selection is on Pittsburgh over San Jose at 10:35 pm et on Tuesday.

We won with the Sharks on Sunday in Washington but I won't hesitate to go the other way and fade them as they return home to host the Penguins on Tuesday. Pittsburgh is coming off an ugly 6-0 loss in Los Angeles on Saturday, evening its record at 1-1 on its current western road trip. This is undoubtedly a game the Pens have had circled since dropping a 6-4 decision at home against the Sharks on January 28th (as -230 favorites). While San Jose has enjoyed some success on the road this season it is just 5-18 on home ice, where it has been outscored by an average margin of 1.0 goal per contest. The Sharks have won consecutive games only three times previously this season and I don't expect them to accomplish that feat here. Note that Pittsburgh is a long-term 87-75 when playing on the road seeking revenge for a loss by two goals or more against an opponent, as is the case here. Take Pittsburgh (8*).

My selection is on Vancouver over Detroit at 10:05 pm et on Monday.

The Canucks get a quick revenge opportunity here after dropping a 5-2 decision in Detroit on Saturday afternoon. Vancouver can't be too disappointed by a 1-3 eastern road trip that also saw it lose in overtime in New Jersey, by a single goal against the Rangers in Manhattan and secure a wild 6-5 win on Long Island. Detroit checks in off consecutive victories and having won four of its last six games overall. That actually puts it in an awful situation here, however, noting that it has gone a miserable 1-13 when coming off four or five wins in its last six contests over the last two seasons, outscored by an average margin of 2.5 goals in that spot. While the Red Wings have been playing well lately, most of their success has come at home. Note that Detroit is just 9-14 on the road this season, outscored by an average margin of 0.7 goals along the way. Take Vancouver (8*).

Revenge Game of the Month. My selection is on Tampa Bay over Colorado at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Lightning have obviously had this game circled since getting dispatched in six games in last year's Stanley Cup Final. Not only that but the Bolts enter this game on a season-long two-game losing streak. I'm confident we'll see them bounce back here as they catch the Avalanche coming off two losses in their last three games themselves. Note that the Lightning are an incredible 33-7 when playing at home off a loss over the last three seasons, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.7 goals in that situation. Better still, they're 18-2 when playing at home off two losses in their last three games over the last two seasons, as is the case here, outscoring the opposition by 1.8 goals on average in that spot. Under head coach Jon Cooper, Tampa Bay has posted a 167-94 record when coming off a game in which it allowed four goals or more, which is also the situation here. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

My selection is on Dallas over Carolina at 8:35 pm et on Wednesday.

This is undoubtedly a game the Stars have had circled since dropping a 5-4 decision in Raleigh earlier this season. Dallas is well-positioned to get its revenge here, noting that it has gone 13-9 on home ice this season, outscoring opponents by an impressive average margin of 1.0 goal per contest. With that being said, the Stars aren't likely to take anything for granted after dropping a 3-2 decision against the Sabres on home ice on Monday. Carolina has won four of its last five games overall including two in a row heading into this non-conference clash. Note that the Hurricanes are just 7-13 when playing on the road after winning four of their last five games over the last two seasons, outscored by an average margin of 0.6 goals in that situation. Worse still, the Canes are 7-20 in their last 27 road games when coming off consecutive wins by three goals or more, which is the case here, outscored by 0.8 goals on average in that spot. Take Dallas (8*).

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

We missed the mark fading the Panthers on Saturday as they outplayed the Wild in a 5-3 home victory. Here, I won't hesitate to come back with the same play as Florida hits the road to face the Rangers in Manhattan. The Panthers have now won consecutive games but consistency hasn't exactly been their calling card this season as they've yet to put together more than two victories in a row. They'll be hard-pressed to do so again here in my opinion as they catch the Rangers well-rested and undoubtedly in a foul mood after dropping a 3-1 decision against the league's best team, the Boston Bruins, last Thursday night. It's worth noting that the Rangers haven't dropped consecutive games since December 27th and 29th with the second of those losses coming by way of a shootout against the Lightning in Tampa. Here, they'll catch the Panthers banged-up with Eric Staal, Sergei Bobrovsky, Sam Bennett and Aaron Ekblad all suffering injuries in the last week. Goaltender Spencer Knight is expected to be back between the pipes after missing time due to injury, but that's not necessarily a good thing as he has posted a less-than-impressive .893 save percentage with the Panthers winning just four of his 10 starts on the road this season. Rangers all-world netminder Igor Shesterkin has been heating up lately, recording a sterling .922 save percentage over his last four games. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Minnesota over Florida at 6:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Wild dropped a 5-2 decision in Carolina two nights ago but I'm confident we'll see them bounce back as they head to Florida to face the Panthers on Saturday. Note that Minnesota remains a winning team on the road this season, where it has held the opposition to just 2.6 goals per game. Meanwhile, consistency certainly hasn't been the Panthers calling card, noting that their longest win streak this season lasted just two games. They're 0-7 when coming off a win over a division opponent this season, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 2.4 goals in that situation. Minnesota will be a revenge-minded team here having dropped the last three meetings in this series. That's the Panthers longest win streak over the Wild all-time, going all the way back to when Minnesota entered the league as an expansion team back in 2000. Take Minnesota (8*).

Metropolitan Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Washington over New York at 7:35 pm et on Monday.

I'm not buying what the Islanders are selling right now. Sure, they snapped a four-game losing streak with a win over the Canadiens on home ice on Saturday but that victory was about as unimpressive as it gets. New York jumped ahead 2-0 in the game's first seven minutes but then never found the back of the net, and played generally uninspired hockey, for the rest of the contest. Here, the Isles will be hosting a desperate Capitals squad looking to snap its own two-game skid off consecutive upset losses at the hands of the Flyers. While Washington is just 10-12 on the road this season, it has managed to outscore opponents by 0.2 goals on average in the visitor's role. New York is 13-8 at UBS Arena but has looked anything but intimidating on home ice lately, going an even 4-4 over its last eight games on home ice. Worse still, the Isles check in a miserable 8-13 in their last 21 games overall. Here, we'll note that New York is 0-6 after scoring two goals or less in five or more consecutive games over the last two seasons, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 2.0 goals in that situation. Meanwhile, the Caps are 114-100 (but most notably +222 net games) when playing on the road after scoring one goal or less in their previous game going all the way back to 1996. Take Washington (10*).

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

We'll fade the Panthers off Tuesday's thrilling 5-4 win over the Avalanche in Denver. Florida blew a 4-1 third period lead in the span of just six minutes in that game, but was rescued by Matthew Tkachuk's second goal of the game with 3:30 remaining to secure the win.

The Panthers check in allowing 3.5 goals per game this season with that average rising to 3.7 going back to December 10th. While they've managed to go 2-1 on their current road trip that doesn't tell the whole story as they've been outscored 11-9 and remain just 9-14 away from home this season, where they've been outscored by an average margin of 0.8 goals.

For the Golden Knights, this will be their first game action since January 7th when they dropped an ugly 5-1 decision against the Kings on home ice. That loss brought an end to a three-game winning streak that saw Vegas outscore the opposition 13-8.

The Knights are just 12-10 on home ice this season but will have a good opportunity to improve on that mark over the next couple of weeks as they'll play each of their next five contests here on The Strip.

While Florida has given up five goals or more in four of its last 10 games, Vegas' most recent contest marked the first time in nine games that it had allowed that many goals. I think we see a 'sling-shot' effect from the Knights here, who you can be sure are itching to get back on the ice after an extended layoff (and that most recent embarrassing loss).

The home team has won all but one of eight previous all-time meetings in this series (Vegas won that game 7-2 in Sunrise) and we'll call for that trend to continue on Thursday. Take Vegas (8*).

My selection is on Colorado over Florida at 9:35 pm et on Tuesday.

We won with the Avalanche in an underdog role in Edmonton on Saturday and I won't hesitate to come right back with them as they return home to face the Panthers on Tuesday. I don't believe this will be a 'one-and-done' situation when it comes to the Avs winning ways. Keep in mind, prior to Saturday's come-from-behind overtime victory, they had lost five straight games. They're just 9-10 on home ice this season but have managed to outscore the opposition by an average margin of 0.1 goal. Florida on the other hand has gone an abysmal 8-14 on the road, outscored by 0.9 goals on average along the way. Take Colorado (8*).

My selection is on Calgary over St. Louis at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday.

I really like the way this spot sets up for the Flames as they look to get back on track following a disappointing overtime loss in Chicago on Sunday. Here, we'll fade the Blues off their stunning 3-0 win in Minnesota on Sunday. Keep in mind, the night previous we saw St. Louis skate to a 5-4 defeat at the hands of the lowly Canadiens. The Blues haven't managed to win consecutive games since mid-December. It's a different story for the Flames, who haven't lost consecutive games since mid-December. While they're just 7-13 on the road this season, they've actually been outscored by only 0.2 goals on average. Meanwhile, the Blues are 7-10 at home this season, outscored by an average margin of 0.6 goals. Take Calgary (8*).

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

We won with the Devils on Saturday as they rallied from a 3-1 third period deficit to defeat the rival Rangers 4-3 in overtime. It was a fortunate win to be sure as the Rangers appeared to be in complete control for more than two-thirds of that contest. Here, we'll go the other way and fade the Devils as they head to Raleigh to face a Hurricanes squad that will be looking to snap a three-game losing streak. In fact, the Canes most recent win came against these same Devils by way of a shootout in Newark back on New Year's Day. While New Jersey has enjoyed plenty of road success this season, one of its three losses came on this ice. You would have to go back five meetings, all the way to 2019 to find the last time the Devils skated to a win over the Canes away from home. Take Carolina (8*).

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

The Avalanche are reeling right now, losers of five straight games including three in a row since welcoming back Nathan MacKinnon to the lineup. What better place to bounce back than Edmonton, where they've taken seven of the last 11 meetings. We actually won with the Oilers on Thursday night but see fit to fade them here, noting that they've gone a miserable 3-9 when following a win by two goals or more this season, outscored by an average margin of 0.6 goals in that situation. The Avs let one slip away after jumping ahead 2-0 on the Canucks two nights ago. I don't expect them to make the same mistake twice. Take Colorado (8*).

My selection is on New Jersey over New York at 1:05 pm et on Saturday.

We'll fade the Rangers on Saturday afternoon as they carry a three-game winning streak into Newark to face the rival Devils. New Jersey suffered a 5-3 home loss against St. Louis last time out. I like the bounce-back spot here as they've hung tough in two previous meetings with New York this season, going 1-1 in a pair of matchups played in Manhattan. We'll note that the Rangers are a woeful 6-17 when playing on the road after scoring three goals or more in three straight games over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 1.1 goal in that situation. Take New Jersey (8*).

Revenge Game of the Month. My selection is on Edmonton over New York at 9:05 pm et on Thursday.

I like the way this spot sets up for the Oilers as they check in off consecutive losses (both on home ice) and host an Islanders squad that is fresh off a lopsided victory in Vancouver two nights ago. Here, we'll note that New York is a woeful 1-11 when playing on the road after scoring four goals or more away from home in its most recent contest over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 1.5 goals in that situation. The Oilers have undoubtedly had this game circled on their calendar since dropping a 3-0 decision on Long Island back in late November. The home team has now won each of the last three meetings in this series going back to the start of last season. Take Edmonton (10*).

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

The Capitals coughed up a 3-2 lead in the back half of the third period and lost in overtime against the upstart Sabres two nights ago. While they've now lost two of their last three games in overtime, they've still collected at least a point in seven consecutive contests. I like their chances of adding to the Blue Jackets woes here, noting that Columbus has lost eight of its last nine games and is just 9-12 on home ice this season, where it has been outscored by an average margin of 0.7 goals. While the Caps have gone 9-11 on the road, they have managed to outscore the opposition by 0.1 goal on average. Take Washington (8*).

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

Both of these teams enter this game riding two-game winning streaks but we'll choose to fade the Flames as they've been the more unreliable squad, not to mention the fact that they're just 7-10 on the road this season and will be up against a revenge-minded Jets squad. Winnipeg checks in 13-6 on home ice, where it has outscored the opposition by an average margin of 1.0 goal. The Flames are 2-6 when coming off consecutive wins this season and worse still, have gone 1-6 after posting victories in four or five of their last six contests here in the 22-23 campaign, outscored by an average margin of 1.2 goals in that spot. Calgary took the first meeting between these two teams this season by a 3-2 score on home ice but it's worth noting that it hasn't won consecutive matchups in this series since the two teams met in a 'bubble' playoff series in Edmonton back in August of 2020. Take Winnipeg (10*).

My selection is on Anaheim over Philadelphia at 10 pm et on Monday.

We'll fade the Flyers off rare consecutive road wins over the Sharks and Kings. Philadelphia remains a woeful 6-14 on the road this season, outscored by 0.7 goals on average. Anaheim was embarrassed on home ice on Friday, dropping a 6-1 decision against the Predators. Keep in mind, the Ducks are just one game removed from a 3-2 home win over the Golden Knights. The Flyers have gone a miserable 11-30 when coming off two victories in their last three games over the last three seasons, outscored by 1.1 goal on average in that situation. Take Anaheim (8*).

My selection is on Seattle over New York at 8:05 pm et on Sunday.

I like the bounce-back spot for the Kraken here after they fell by a 7-2 score against the Oilers on Friday night. That marked Seattle's third straight loss while New York has won three games in a row entering this clash. Keep in mind, all three of those Islander victories came at home. They've dropped four of their last five on the road to fall under .500 away from home this season. The Isles also check in a woeful 6-16 when playing on the road after holding consecutive opponents to two goals or less over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 1.3 goals in that situation. Take Seattle (8*).

My selection is on Detroit over Ottawa at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

We'll fade the Senators here as they look for their third straight win following a thrilling come-from-behind overtime victory in Washington two nights ago. Credit Ottawa for rallying from a 3-1 deficit in the second of back-to-backs on Thursday but the Sens remain 7-10 on the road this season where they've been outscored by an average margin of 0.5 goals per contest. Detroit had its two-game winning streak snapped in a 6-3 loss in Buffalo on Thursday although it did show some fight after falling behind big early on. That was a classic letdown spot for Detroit after it staged a furious rally to steal a victory in overtime in Pittsburgh the night previous. Here, I look for the Wings to regroup and pull back to even on home ice this season in the process. Take Detroit (8*).

My selection is on Carolina over Florida at 7:35 pm et on Friday.

We'll fade the Panthers off their seven-goal outburst against the lowly Canadiens last night. Carolina is the hottest team in the league right now, having won nine games in a row. While Florida checks in 7-12 on the road, allowing 3.7 goals per contest, Carolina has gone 11-4 on home ice, giving up just 2.7 goals per game. This is a game the Hurricanes have likely had circled on the calendar since dropping a 3-0 decision in Florida in the first meeting between the two teams this season back on November 9th. Take Carolina (8*).

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

We'll fade the Red Wings off last night's incredible comeback victory over the Penguins - their second straight win in an underdog role. Here, they'll face a red hot Sabres squad that has reeled off four consecutive victories and are already 2-0 in this series this season, scoring a whopping 13 goals in the process. Note that Detroit has played road games on back-to-back nights just nine times over the last three seasons, as is the case here, and has been outscored by 1.5 goals on average in that situation, allowing 4.7 goals per game. Take Buffalo (8*).

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

We'll fade the Senators off Tuesday's upset win over the Bruins. The Capitals are red hot, winners of five in a row and 10 of their last 11 games overall with Alex Ovechkin stealing the spotlight as he chases Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record. Everything is clicking for the Caps right now as they've scored four or more goals in eight of their last 10 games and held nine of their last 11 opponents to two goals or less. The Sens snapped a three-game losing streak on Tuesday but that was at home. They're 6-10 on the road this season where they've been outscored by 0.6 goals per game on average. Meanwhile, Washington is 11-6 on home ice, outscoring the opposition by 0.7 goals on average. Take Washington (8*).

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

I think this is a game the Lightning have had circled since dropping a 3-1 decision in New York way back on the opening night of the season. As healthy as they've been all season, I feel the Bolts are poised to go on a run and last night's 4-1 victory over the Canadiens could serve as the perfect jumping off point. New York has cooled off, dropping two of its last three games, most recently falling by a 4-0 score at home against the Capitals. Note that the Rangers will be up against it here as the Lightning have gone an incredible 22-3 when playing at home after losing two of their last three games over the last three seasons, outscoring the opposition by 1.8 goals on average in that situation. They're also an incredible 30-6 when playing at home seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent over the same stretch, also outscoring foes by 1.8 goals on average in that spot. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

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

The last time we saw the Maple Leafs on the road they were a slight underdog in Dallas. Now they're favored as they head to Manhattan to face a red hot Rangers squad that has won four straight games, and has a rest advantage having not played since skating to an overtime win over the Devils on Monday. Here, we'll note that Toronto is a woeful 2-10 when playing on the road after winning four or more consecutive games over the last three seasons, allowing 4.2 goals per game while being outscored by 0.9 goals on average in that situation. The Rangers have allowed just 2.1 goals per contest while outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.8 goals when playing at home off a home victory over the last two seasons (19-game sample size). Take New York (8*).

My selection is on Winnipeg over Vegas at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday.

I like the way this spot sets up for the Jets as they look to bounce back from Sunday's 5-2 home loss to the Capitals. Here, we'll note that Winnipeg is a perfect 7-0 when coming off a home loss by three goals or more over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by a whopping average margin of 2.5 goals in that situation. Perhaps better still, the Jets are 9-1 when playing at home seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent in which they scored a single goal over the same stretch, outscoring the opposition by 2.4 goals on average in that spot. That situation is in play after Winnipeg dropped a 2-1 decision in Las Vegas back on October 30th - its second defeat at the hands of the Golden Knights in as many meetings this season (both previous matchups were in Las Vegas). Take Winnipeg (8*).

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

The Kings have had an up and down road trip, splitting their first four games entering Tuesday's clash with the Sabres in Buffalo. Knowing that they'll be facing arguably the league's best team in Boston on Thursday, they'll want to the make the most of the opportunity in front of them against the slumping Sabres on Tuesday night. Buffalo has dropped consecutive games, managing to score just four goals in those two contests after exploding for nine goals in a game in Columbus last week. The Kings have certainly put the clamps on the Sabres recently, allowing just two goals in winning both meetings last season. Here, we'll note that Los Angeles is 9-4 when coming off a one-goal loss on the road over the last two seasons and 27-15 when following up a game in which it allowed four goals or more over the same stretch. While Buffalo has played an exciting brand of hockey this season, it only has six wins in 16 home games to show for it. Take Los Angeles (8*).

My selection is on Nashville over St. Louis at 8:05 pm et on Monday.

Both of these teams enter this game on the heels of consecutive losses although the Blues did manage to register a point in yesterday's overtime loss to the Avalanche. That was of little consolation as St. Louis coughed up a late 2-1 lead in that contest, another in a long line of disappointing results for the Blues this season. For the Predators, they'll be eager to erase the memory of a 3-2 home loss to the Senators on Saturday. With little separating these two teams up front or on the blue line, the difference could be between the pipes. While Nashville has gotten solid work from its goaltending tandem of Juuse Saros and Kevin Lankinen, the Blues are in dire straights with both Jordan Binnington and Thomas Greiss struggling. I simply feel the Predators have more upside at this stage of the season and the case can be made that the wrong team is being favored here. Take Nashville (8*).

My selection is on Ottawa over Dallas at 8:35 pm et on Thursday.

The Senators were a no-show against the Kings two nights ago (we won with Los Angeles in that game), falling behind 4-1 early and never recovering in a 5-2 defeat. That was the type of loss that's easy to move on from and I expect a far better performance from the underdog Sens in Dallas on Thursday. The common line of thinking here is that this is a layup bounce-back spot for the Stars off consecutive home losses. The reality is, that hasn't been the case over the last few seasons as Dallas checks in 2-5 the last seven times it has come off two or more home losses in a row. After scoring 25 goals over a six-game stretch the Stars were certainly in line for some regression and we saw that on Tuesday as they were shutout by a Leafs team missing a number of key contributors on the blue line. Look for Ottawa to be the team that bounces back on Thursday, noting that it has taken four straight meetings in this series including a 4-1 victory in Dallas last season. Take Ottawa (8*).

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

We won with the Kings two nights ago in Ottawa but missed fading the Leafs in their 4-0 victory in Dallas on the same night. Here, we'll take another shot at fading Toronto as it returns home to host Los Angeles on Thursday. The Leafs have actually dropped consecutive meetings with the Kings, including a 5-1 loss on home ice as a favorite priced well north of -200 last season. I'm higher on Los Angeles than most, realizing that it has plenty of warts defensively but does have considerable upside from an offensive standpoint. I do like the way the Kings forwards match up here against a Leafs squad that is still missing a number of stalwarts on the blue line due to injury. While it's always a considerable risk fading a team as offensively gifted as the Leafs, I like the letdown spot here returning home off a shutout victory in Dallas. Interestingly, Toronto has averaged just 2.9 goals per game at home this season compared to its season scoring average of 3.1 gpg. The Kings are a respectable 7-7 (+0.3 net games from a betting perspective) on the road. I think placing goaltender Cal Petersen on waivers was a wake-up call for the entire team last week and his replacement Pheonix Copley turned in a terrific performance between the pipes two nights ago. It's likely Jonathan Quick in goal tonight but he was also in goal for that aforementioned 5-1 win here in Toronto last season. Take Los Angeles (8*).

My selection is on San Jose over Vancouver at 10:35 pm et on Wednesday.

I'll gladly fade the favored Canucks off their ridiculous come-from-behind win over the Canadiens on Monday. Vancouver rallied from four goals down and then again after trailing 6-5 with just minutes remaining in the third period in an eventual overtime win. Credit the Canucks for never quitting in that game but there's no question the Habs served it up on a silver platter after jumping ahead 4-0 early. Here, I don't expect the Sharks to be as forgiving as they look to bounce back from three straight losses. Interestingly, San Jose's most recent home game came against these same Canucks back on November 27th - a game it lost by a 4-3 score. Here, we'll note that the Sharks have gone 7-2 in their last nine games after losing consecutive contests by three goals or more, which is the situation here, outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals on average in that spot. Having dropped six straight meetings in this series, look for the revenge-minded Sharks to finally put one over on the Canucks on Wednesday. Take San Jose (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on New York over Vegas at 10:05 pm et on Wednesday.

The Rangers 6-4 victory over the Blues on Monday was the type of win that can provide some positive momentum for a team as it heads out on the road for a brief two-game trip. New York appeared headed for its third straight loss before a furious third period rally that saw it score three unanswered goals. That marked the first time in seven games the Blueshirts found the back of the net more than three times. The Golden Knights persevered in a 4-3 shootout win in Boston on Monday. That marked their second straight victory and wrapped up a 3-1 road trip. I think they'll be in tough here against a Rangers squad that has gone 7-5 on the road this season, outscoring opponents by 0.8 goals on average. Note that New York is an incredible 12-2 in its last 14 games after losing five or six of its last seven contests, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 1.1 goals on average in that situation. The Knights are a woeful 2-7 in their last nine home games after scoring three or more goals in four consecutive games, outscored by an average margin of 0.8 goals in that spot. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Dallas over Toronto at 8:35 pm et on Tuesday.

The Maple Leafs finally lost a game on Saturday as they fell by a 3-2 score in Tampa. Meanwhile, the Stars check in off a disappointing 6-5 home loss against the Wild on Sunday - a game that saw them stage a furious rally but ultimately come away with just a single point. There was no shame in that shootout defeat, however, and Dallas remains a solid 7-5 on home ice this season, outscoring opponents by an impressive average margin of 1.3 goals. The Leafs were bound to come back to Earth following an extended winning run and I don't like the spot for them here as they come off a two-day layoff following Saturday's defeat, not to mention the fact that they'll be taking the ice for only the second time in the last six days. The 'rest vs. rust' discussion comes into play (especially at this early stage of the season) and given how well Toronto had been playing, I believe it could hit a bit of a lull here. This should be a game the Stars have had circled after dropping a 3-2 decision in Toronto back in October. Dallas didn't play particularly well in that contest but was still right there in the end, which should provide some confident that it can gain an ounce of revenge here at home. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Ottawa at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

I believe the case can be made for the wrong team being favored in this matchup on Tuesday night in Ottawa. The Kings head out on the road after a disappointing 1-3 homestand that started with a 3-2 loss to these same Senators a little over a week ago. That was a successful revenge trip to Los Angeles after the Sens had dropped both meetings with the Kings last season, including a 2-0 defeat here in Ottawa. I believe they'll find the going a little tougher this time around as the Kings look to get this eastern road swing off to a positive start. Here, we'll note that Los Angeles is 24-18 after losing two of its previous three games over the last two seasons and 15-11 when seeking revenge for a home loss against an opponent over the same stretch. Better still, the Kings are 22-12 after giving up three or more goals in consecutive games over the last two seasons and have given up just 2.7 goals per contest after allowing four or more goals in their previous game over the same stretch (40-game sample size), outscoring the opposition by 0.4 goals on average in that situation. Meanwhile, the Sens are a woeful 3-14 in their last 17 home games after scoring three goals or more in consecutive contests, outscored by 1.1 goals on average in that spot. Take Los Angeles (8*).

My selection is on Montreal over Vancouver at 10:35 pm et on Monday.

We missed with the Coyotes in Vancouver on Saturday as they blew a 2-1 third period lead in an eventual overtime loss (on a Canucks power play goal). Here, I won't hesitate to go back to the well fading the Canucks as a big favorite again, this time against the Montreal Canadiens, who will be looking to bounce back from a 5-3 loss to the red hot Oilers in Edmonton on Saturday. Montreal continues to play competitive hockey, 7-5 over its last 12 games including a 2-1 upset win in Calgary to open its current road trip. The Canadiens took the first meeting between these two teams this season and it wasn't particularly close (Montreal won 5-2). That game was played in Montreal but the Habs have also held their own here in Vancouver over the years, splitting the last six matchups while outscoring the Canucks by an average margin of 4-3. Take Montreal (8*).

My selection is on Arizona over Vancouver at 10:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Canucks continue to struggle, already 0-2 on their current homestand off blowout losses to the Capitals and Panthers. While a matchup with the lowly Coyotes would appear to be the cure for what ails them, I'm not convinced that will prove to be the case on Saturday night. Arizona pulled off a 4-0 stunner in Carolina just over a week ago but has dropped three in a row on the road since. The Coyotes do at least continue to score with consistency, having put up at least three goals in five consecutive games. After dropping all three meetings in this series last season by a combined 17-3 score, I can't help but feel the Coyotes have had this matchup circled and I look for them to take advantage of the Canucks playing some of their worst hockey. Take Arizona (8*).

My selection is on Washington over Vancouver at 10:05 pm et on Tuesday.

I really like the bounce-back spot for the Capitals on Tuesday as they look to respond after suffering a 5-1 loss to the red hot Devils last time out. The Canucks enter on a three-game winning streak, sweeping their road trip. They're just 3-5 on home ice this season, though. The Capitals are a woeful 2-9 on the road but that record will level out eventually. Looking back, Washington has faced a tough slate of opponents away from home. I do think they use the rest of this trip as an opportunity to get on track on the highway and off two full days' off, this is an ideal turnaround spot in my opinion. With the Canucks 'fat and happy' off a perfect road trip and having dropped last year's lone matchup between these two teams here in Vancouver, I'll back the Caps at a generous price on Tuesday. Take Washington (8*).

Division Game of the Month. My selection is on New Jersey over New York at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

The Devils just keep rolling along and I like their chances of stacking up another victory as they head to Manhattan to face the struggling Rangers on Monday night. New York has lost seven of its last 11 games, including Saturday's stunning 4-3 defeat at the hands of the Oilers in a game they led 3-0 in the third period (we won with the underdog Oilers in that game). There's no comparison between these two teams statistically this season. The 'due factor' and the fact that New York has owned this series for years is really the only thing it has going for it in this matchup. That's not enough to warrant the pk'em price in my opinion. Noting that the Devils have outscored the opposition by 2.0 goals on average on the road this season while the Rangers have been outscored by an average margin of 0.6 goals at home, we'll confidently back New Jersey here. Take New Jersey (10*).

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

I'm not completely convinced that the Avalanche are the better team in this matchup, yet we're being given a very generous price to back the Stars, likely due to the fact they're off a hard-fought overtime loss to the Jets last night while Colorado was idle thanks to a water main break in Nashville. The Stars have undoubtedly had this game circled on their calendars since suffering a 3-2 home loss to the Avalanche earlier this week. Dallas has proven to be more than just a 'tough out' on the road this season, going 6-5 while outscoring the opposition by 1.0 goal per contest. The Avs are off a stunning 4-3 home loss to the Canucks and are just an even 4-4 here in Denver this season. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Edmonton over New York at 1:05 pm et on Saturday.

With the Rangers having won just four of their last 10 games and in a tough spot here returning home off a west coast road trip, I like the slumping Oilers to catch them by surprise on Saturday afternoon. Edmonton has had a couple of days off to digest a 3-0 loss to the Islanders on Wednesday - its second straight defeat to open this three-game road swing. There's no reason for the Oilers to be intimidated by this matchup on Saturday, noting that New York has been outscored by an average margin of 0.3 goals in its 10 home games this season. It's worth noting that while the Rangers did skate to a victory the last time these two teams met last season, they haven't recorded consecutive wins over Edmonton since taking five in a row in the series from 2015 to 2018. Since then, the Oilers are 5-1 in the last six meetings. Take Edmonton (8*).

My selection is on Minnesota over Toronto at 2:05 pm et on Friday.

The Wild are generally a streaky team, particularly on home ice and here we'll back them fresh off consecutive victories in the State of Hockey, as they host the Leafs, who are in a clear letdown spot after ending the Devils long winning streak two nights ago. I don't think there's any question, there's a valley between the Eastern and Western Conferences this season, with the West proving superior to this point. Toronto checks in just 3-6 against Western Conference opponents while Minnesota has gone an even 4-4 against the East. The fact that the Wild have held six of their last eight opponents to two goals or less has gone largely unnoticed. Off a season-high six-goal outburst in a win over Winnipeg on Wednesday, I look for Minnesota to keep it rolling here, noting that it has gone an incredible 39-12 in its last 51 home games when coming off a victory. Take Minnesota (8*).

My selection is on Montreal over Chicago at 2:05 pm et on Friday.

I'm not buying what the Blackhawks are selling this season and will gladly fade them for a second straight game on Friday afternoon. Chicago might not be the worst team in the NHL, but it's certainly in the conversation. Sporting a 4-1 third period lead in Dallas two nights ago, all seemed to be going well for the 'Hawks before they allowed five unanswered goals, not only failing to win, but not even managing to hold on for the puck-line cover. They're back home on Friday but that should offer little comfort as they've gone 4-6 while being outscored by 0.7 goals on average here at the United Center. Montreal successfully avenged a loss the week prior in Columbus two nights ago and will be revenge-minded again here after dropping both meetings against Chicago last season. Noting that the 'Hawks are a miserable 8-28 after giving up three goals or more in three consecutive games over the last two seasons, outscored by 1.4 goals on average in that situation, we'll confidently back the Habs here. Take Montreal (8*).

My selection is on New York over Anaheim at 10:05 pm et on Wednesday.

The Ducks might not be the worst team in the NHL but they're certainly in the conversation. I don't see them picking themselves up off the mat on Wednesday, even as they catch the Rangers in a back-to-back spot off a 5-3 win in Los Angeles last night. New York has been a load for Anaheim to handle going back to last season, scoring 14 goals while taking all three meetings in this series. The Ducks simply aren't producing offensively right now, mustering two goals or less in three straight and five of their last six games overall. It won't get any easier against a Rangers squad that has held six consecutive opponents to three goals or less. Take New York (8*).

My selection is on Florida over Boston at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday.

We won with the Bruins two nights ago in Tampa but I won't hesitate to go the other way and back the Panthers as they look to snap Boston's long winning streak on Wednesday. The Panthers are in a triple-revenge spot here, having dropped three straight matchups with the Bruins. However, all three of those contests were played in Boston. The last time these two teams met in Sunrise, the Panthers skated to a 4-1 victory. Off an ugly loss in Columbus on Sunday, look for Florida to bounce back here. Take Florida (8*).

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

This is undoubtedly a tough test for the red hot Bruins as the Lightning have been playing well also, winning eight of their last 11 games. I like Boston in this spot, however, noting that it took three of four meetings in this series last season and Tampa Bay checks in a woeful 8-13 in its last 21 games following four or more consecutive wins, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 0.6 goals in that situation. Take Boston (8*).

My selection is on Edmonton over New Jersey at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

The Devils are the hottest team in the NHL and have been for weeks but I like the Oilers to finally bring New Jersey's long winning streak to a halt on Monday night. Edmonton has proven to be a 'tough out' and then some on the road this season, going 5-2 including victories over top Eastern Conference teams including the Lightning and Panthers. Here, we'll note that the Oilers are an incredible 17-4 in their last 21 games when seeking revenge for a one-goal loss against an opponent, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 1.6 goals on average in that spot. Take Edmonton (8*).

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

It always seems to be one step forward, two steps back when it comes to the Maple Leafs and off consecutive victories including a lopsided win in Pittsburgh two nights ago, I look for them to get tripped up against the red hot Devils on Thursday. New Jersey isn't getting the credit or recognition it deserves. The Devils have reeled off 10 consecutive victories - that's no fluke. They haven't allowed more than three goals on a single occasion over that stretch. Contrast that with the Leafs, who have been lit up for 4+ goals in five of their last 10 contests. Outscoring the opposition by 1.9 goals on average on the road this season, we'll ride with the Devils on Thursday. Take New Jersey (8*).

My selection is on Carolina over Chicago at 8:35 pm et on Monday.

This is an awful spot for the Blackhawks, returning home off a win at the tail-end of their three-game western road swing, noting that they've scored three goals or less in seven straight games now and catch a Hurricanes squad in a foul mood off a 4-1 loss in Colorado to open their current road trip. While Carolina has been held to one goal or less in three of its last four games, I expect its offensive slump to be short-lived, noting that it is just one game removed from a seven-goal explosion against the Oilers. Carolina took both meetings in this series last season, scoring 10 goals in the process. The Blackhawks are an even weaker team this season in my opinion and they find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time tonight. Take Carolina (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Toronto over Vegas at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Maple Leafs have proven to be a streaky team in recent years and this season has been no different. Toronto entered the start of the month having dropped four straight games. Since then, they've reeled off three straight wins, including a near-perfect road game in Carolina on Sunday. The Golden Knights come in red hot as well, winners of seven games in a row. That streak started with a victory over these same Leafs in Las Vegas. It's worth noting, however, in nine previous matchups between these two teams, the Knights have never managed to post consecutive victories, failing to do so in each of their last two tries, which both came in Toronto. Interestingly, the Leafs are an incredible 23-2 in their last 25 home games following a road game, which is the situation here, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.9 goals in that spot. It's worth noting that the Knights had been playing every other day going back to October 28th. Here, they come off back-to-back off days and I look for Toronto to get the jump on them as a result on Tuesday. Take Toronto (10*).

Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on San Jose over Anaheim at 10:35 pm et on Saturday.

We missed with the Sharks in this same matchup earlier this week but I won't hesitate to go back to the well in this 'revenge' spot, noting that the previous contest could have certainly gone either way as it was decided in a shootout. The Ducks check in having allowed a whopping 29 goals over their last six games and figure to get lit up again here. Note that Anaheim is a woeful 6-26 when coming off two wins in their last three games over the last three seasons, outscored by 1.6 goals on average in that spot. Meanwhile, the Sharks are a profitable 25-21 after losing three of their last four games over the same stretch, as is the case here. Take San Jose (10*).

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

Getting a win on Saturday is 'mission critical' for the Penguins as they look to finally snap their six-game losing streak before a three-day layoff which precedes a showdown with the rival Capitals on Wednesday in Washington. This is a 'revenge game' for the Pens after they outshot the Kraken but fell by a 3-1 score in Seattle last Saturday. Note that while the Kraken have won three games in a row, they've actually been outshot by a wide 95-79 margin over that stretch. Here, we'll note that Seattle is a woeful 2-12 all-time when coming off a road victory, which is the situation here following its 4-0 shutout win over the Wild on Thursday. Take Pittsburgh (8*).