All three games in this series have gone over the posted total and we think these offenses will continue to thrive tonight. They have averaged over eight goals each in this series combined and we see the goalies working overtime tonight once again. They have adjusted the line up from the 5.5 we have seen in the first three games, but that is not enough. We see both teams being aggressive here and chasing the win, and this should be another exciting game with lots of scoring.

We had a strong totals play on the under in Game 5, and you have to have solid fortitude to make that call after all the goals that were scored in the first four games. But after the 3-1 result, it confirmed to us that this series will come down to the defenses and goaltenders. And we think we will see the same type of game here in Game 6, and Game 7 if that eventually happens. These have been two of the best under teams in the league in the regular season for a reason.

The last two games have averaged eight goals apiece. There is no pressure on Montreal here. They weren’t even supposed to be in the playoffs and their future is bright. They are just going to be aggressive on the offensive end here and throw caution to the wind. We think they will have some success on the offensive end. Washington has averaged 4.25 goals in this series, so they should have no problem grabbing their share of the total. We just don’t see a strong defensive stand from Montreal that might be typical of a team with high season expectations on the verge of elimination, and we see another high scoring game here just like the last two.

Every game of this series has gone over, which has been surprising, but we have seen the total creep up and we just think there is value here. It is telling that the under is juiced this way, and with this series knotted up, we see the defenses start to shine. These have been two of the best under teams in the league this season, and we expect a low scoring game in this series. One of these games is going to be a 2-1 type of game, and we think this could be the one as the winner of this one is on the verge of advancing, so we really see the defenses starting to shine.

Game 1 was a 6-5 shootout and a Kings win, but the three previous meetings all went under the posted total. We think the defenses will make adjustments here and this series will tighten up starting here in Game 2. There weren’t an abnormal level of shots in Game 1, but the defenses allowed too many chances and the goalies didn’t play well for either team. We just don’t see a replay of Game 1 happening. These have been two of the better defensive teams in the league this season that have relied on defense to get where they are now. This is the first total we have gotten above 5.5 in the last five meetings. And it’s telling that the under is juiced here, as the oddsmakers expect these teams to tighten things up in Game 2. We think this one should go well under the total.

7-Unit Play Take St. Louis/Winnipeg UNDER 5.5 (-145) (6 p.m. EST, Saturday April 19)

These teams have played only one game in the last nine that went over, but there have been a couple pushes at 6. These are two good defensive teams and we expect another low scoring game. We could realistically see the Blues getting shut out or being limited to a single goal. Winnipeg is very excited for this series and the playoffs in general, and we expect to see their A Game on the defensive end. These are two of the top under teams in the league this season, and for Winnipeg that should continue here in the postseason, and for the Blues this series.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

Three of the last four meetings have seen seven or more goals scored. Seattle has had two low scoring matches as a team, but they have still averaged more than four goals in their last four games. They were very tired last time out vs. Utah on a back-to-back, but after some rest we think their attack will be more lethal tonight. Vegas has been on an under streak lately, but you always have to take a look when they are tagged with a 5.5 as that is pretty rare for such a solid offensive team like the Knights.

Seattle had been playing great on offense until they met the Kings in LA last night and scored only two, but they had five each in their previous two games. We think they will get back to their scoring ways against Utah tonight. Seattle has scored nine total goals in two meetings and we think they should be able to get to that area tonight and the home team will have success lighting the lamp as well. The Hockey Club has alternated over and unders for the last eight games. And guess what the turn is for tonight?

Boston broke out of their slump in a big way on Saturday in a 5-1 win vs the Hurricanes. We think that offensive momentum can carry over here today. Sometimes in the NHL confidence means everything. Buffalo is one of the top over teams in the league. Boston played good defense on Saturday, but they probably don’t have the same defensive energy on a B2B. So Buffalo should get some good looks. They have averaged more than five goals per game in their last five, so they have been very solid on the offensive end.

Three straight meetings and seven of ten have gone over the posted total. We expect this one to be high scoring as well. Montreal has hit the under in two straight but is 6-3 to the over in their last nine. This looks like a game they could really break out offensively. Philly has been an over machine lately with four of five going over the total. They have averaged five goals per game in their last three, so we are confident they can earn their share of the total here tonight. But it is the Montreal offense we expect to shine tonight.

These teams have gone over in nine of the last 10 meetings. It’s almost like clockwork. The Kraken have been eliminated from the playoff picture and the Canucks are soon to follow, so the defense shouldn’t be too intense here. The Canucks defense has been inconsistent lately and we think Seattle will be able to light the lamp here as they are coming off two straight matchups with Dallas where they scored only one goal in each game but they scored six before that against Edmonton and we are confident they will focus on offense tonight. Vancouver played another strong defensive team last time out in Winnipeg and also scored a single goal. But they had 11 goals in their two matchups previous to that, and that is the kind of scoring we expect in this one. At 5.5 you don’t need an epic offensive showing to cover the over, and we think both teams will get their share to once again send this one over.

Buffalo is one of the top over teams in the league and we like this one to go over as well. Buffalo has 11 goals in their last two games and they have allowed 10 during that timeframe. This Capitals offense is very good and they should be able to capitalize on the weak Sabres defense. These teams haven’t gone under in nine straight meetings (two pushes). We think the home team will have a big game but the Sabres will earn their share of the total as well.

Five straight meetings have gone over the posted total. St. Louis has been an underrated team all season and they are playing great on offense and are a legit playoff team in our eyes. They have scored at least four goals in six straight games. They could do even better here and we think they could get close to covering this total by themselves. Montreal has gone over in five of their last six. Their offense has been inconsistent but they have scored at least four goals in four of their last six. They are one of the better over teams this season and in games where they don’t play well on offense they usually give up goals on defense. We do think they will get their share of the total today, however. They have 10 goals in their last two visits to Enterprise Center.

Six of the last eight meetings have gone under 5.5, and this looks like another likely low scoring game. These are two of the better defensive teams in the league. As a result, both have trended heavily to the under on the season. When divisional rivals meet, especially strong defensive clubs, they usually step up the defense, and you can see that in the past results when these teams meet up. Both teams are currently trending to the under, as Dallas has gone under in two straight, while Minnesota has gone under in three straight and eight of their last 10.

The last four meetings have gone under, and we expect that trend to continue today. Calgary is one of the top under teams in the league this season. They have scored more than two goals only once in regulation in their last nine games. The Rangers have been inconsistent on the offensive end and their defense has been pretty good. We don’t see Calgary getting their share of the total in this one that should be a close, low scoring game or a Rangers blowout.

The last three meetings have seen 10 or more goals scored each. That includes a pair of games in January, a 6-5 Nashville win and a 7-5 Nashville win. None of the last six games have gone under (two pushes). We think these teams are in for some more scoring here tonight. Neither team is making the playoffs, so this game isn’t very important. We don’t see a lot of defense being played as a result. Offense comes naturally, but defense takes effort. The Sharks have given up 11 goals in their last two matchups and this team will be poor defensively down the stretch. They already have the mindset of looking forward to next season and the focus just isn’t there lately. Nashville has allowed at least three goals in four of their last five and we think the Sharks will get their share of the total as well tonight.

We think there is a good chance this will be a low scoring game. These teams have played under in seven of the last nine meetings. The Oilers don’t always meet offensive expectations and they are a bit underrated on defense. They have a winning record for the under this season despite being known as an offensive team. We are fading the public here as they have come heavy on the over in this matchup.

The Islanders are on a back-to-back, and we think there is a good chance their offense comes out flat. They have scored three goals or fewer in seven of their last nine games. Their offense has been inconsistent, and this looks like a bad spot for them to put up a strong offensive showing, Anaheim has also been consistent on offense. We had them last time out for the over, and only a late flurry of goals in the last couple minutes disguised a pretty bad offensive showing. The Islanders are a solid defensive club, and this doesn’t look like a spot where the Ducks will break out with lots of scoring. Anaheim is one of the top under teams in the league for a reason. We think that trend will continue tonight.

These teams have averaged over eight goals each in the last three meetings. Five of the last eight meetings have gone over with one push. The Blues have scored at least three goals in eight straight games. They have scored four or more in half of those. Anaheim’s offense has been inconsistent but we expect a very competitive game from them here and we think they can challenge for the win despite being a decent sized underdog. We think both teams will get their share of the total here. The Ducks have gone over in three of their last four games. They seem to either score a lot or give up many goals recently, and this is a matchup where we expect both clubs to get to at least three goals. The winner has scored six goals in five of the last eight meetings. Five of the last eight have gone over for the Blues. Both of these teams trend to the under on the season but their recent results have trended to the over, and we love taking the over on a matchup with strong scoring history and that we expect to be a competitive game.

The Blues have 19 goals in their last four games, including seven last time out vs. Seattle. So they come into this one with some offensive momentum. Despite scoring only once last time out, Washington has at least four goals in their other seven most recent games. They have averaged five goals per game in their last four despite that one-goal showing last time out. Five of the last six meetings have gone over, and the last meeting saw nine goals scored.

These squads have gone over the posted total in three straight meetings. These are two strong under teams, but we will try to beat the total at 5.5 at a nice plus-money price. The Kings have gone over in five of their last six. It’s because their offense is on fire right now. They have averaged five goals in those over games. And they played some very solid defensive teams during this streak. Vancouver has been the opposite and they have been on an under streak but that has to end sometime and this looks like the one where it will, and we don’t see them slowing the Kings down tonight. Also, we expect the Canucks to notch a couple goals in what should be a competitive game, so we think they get their share of the total as well.

One of these teams has topped this total in each of the last two meetings. The last one, in October, saw nine goals scored. The Kings have scored five or more in three of their last four games. Vegas has won three straight and has also looked good on offense. When we see a total of 5.5 we always look for a route to beat it, and we see both teams getting their share of the total here. Four of the last six meetings have gone over the posted number.

Montreal’s offense has been inconsistent and they have scored only one goal in their last two matchups, but that was against two of the best defensive teams in the league. This looks like a great spot for them to break out. Anaheim has allowed four goals in each of their last two games. Montreal has allowed at least three goals in four straight. We agree with the oddsmakers that this should be a close game and we think both teams get their share of the total and this is one that could possibly see OT.

The Blues have stunk recently on offense and we think if they want to keep this one competitive, they will have to get it done on the defensive side. We expected this total at 5.5 and would have liked the under even at that number. Only two of the last eight for the Blues have gone over (two pushes). We either think this will be a 2-1 type of final or 4-1 for the home team.

Winnipeg have scored five goals in each of their last two games, and this offense is humming right now. They will have plenty of opportunities to light the lamp tonight. We always look for value in the line with the over with Montreal as this offense is emerging into a pretty good one although inconsistent. But when they are in the zone they can rack up goals on any team. They have at least three goals in six of their last seven.

We rode the Blues over streak for awhile as they experiences an offensive burst, but that seems to be over as they are now once against struggling to score goals. They are coming in off being on the wrong end of a shutout and have scored two or fewer goals in five of their last seven games. We see this as a likely defensive matchup. Both teams have stronger defenses than offenses. Vancouver has also been struggling for goals lately as they have scored two or fewer in seven of their last nine. They scored three each in the other two in their best offensive outputs. Six of their last nine have gone under the posted number, and we expect a very low scoring game here.

Vegas is in a tough situation here on a back-to-back and coming up against a Dallas team that is not going to allow many goals in their home ice. The under is 5-2 in the Knights last seven on a back-to-back, and Dallas is one of the top under teams in the league, especially at home. Six of the last seven meetings have gone under, and the one that didn’t was a 4-2 final at a total of 5.5.

The last two meetings have gone over and 7 of the last 10 have gone over. These teams just played in Vegas on Monday and it was 4-4 at the end or regulation. We don’t see the script being much different here and expect another competitive match where both teams get their share of the total.

Eight of the last 10 meetings between these clubs have gone over the posted total. So, these teams are used to playing in high scoring contests. They have averaged more than seven goals each in the last four meetings. Montreal has really improved on offense this season and they seem to be getting better as the season progresses. They have scored four goals or more in seven of their last 10 games. So, there’s a good chance that they will keep this one competitive and get their share of the total. Washington is No. 2 in the NHL for goals per game, so they are likely to have a big offensive night here at home. Montreal is a Bottom 5 defense for goals allowed, and their offense is currently well ahead of the defense. Montreal has had a few low scoring games recently so we are getting a nice number here but we think this one has a great chance to sail over the posted number.

St. Louis has suddenly been playing in a bunch of barnburners and we have been taking advantage as the oddsmakers have been slow to adjust. Their last two matches have both totaled 10 goals. They have gone over in five of six after being one of the best under bets in the NHL for most of the season. They have scored at least four goals in six of their last seven games. They are really playing well on the offensive end. And their defense has allowed four goals or more in four of their last six and 12 in their last two matches. While the Anaheim offense has been inconsistent, they have shown they can score lately, as they notched four against Tampa Bay, three against Winnipeg and New Jersey, and five against Edmonton in their last six. The last meeting was a 6-5 Blues win, and five of the last seven meetings have seen six or more goals scored.

Both teams have been playing well on offense and we feel there is a good chance this one sails over the posted total. Minnesota has 12 goals in regulation in their last three matches. St. Louis has scored at least four goals in five of their last six, and they busted out for six against the Blackhawks and seven against the Predators. They have to come in confident they can get some pucks past this stingy defense and excellent goalie. Whenever we see a total at 5.5 we try and see a way to get to the over, and the way these offenses have been playing we like our chances. These teams went over in a November meeting in St. Louis and that was due to an empty netter, but the offenses are in better form right now and we feel by the time the goalie is pulled, in the event of a close game, we will have already cashed this ticket.

We love the way the Blues have been playing on offense lately and they have averaged close to five goals per match in their last four. Columbus have scored four or more in six of their last seven. So both clubs are in solid offensive form right now, and we see the offenses as being ahead of the defenses in this one. And this is more than a fair price today. Six of the last eight meetings have gone over the posted total, and many of those totals were lined at 6.5. Columbus is among the worst in the NHL for goals allowed per match, and we think this will be a competitive game where both teams get their share of the total.

Both squads trend to the under on the season. These are two of the top defensive teams in the league, and both of these offenses have been somewhat disappointing. These teams might have been taken out of rhythm with the holiday break, but there should be plenty of energy on the defensive end. These teams met last month in Minneapolis, and the Stars won, 2-1. We should see this type of low scoring match again. Only two of the last seven meetings have gone over, and one was a push at a minuscule total of only 5.0. Nine of the last 11 games for the Stars have gone under the posted total, and Minnesota has scored two or fewer goals in six of their last nine games.

Edmonton has scored 14 goals in the last two meetings, so there is a decent chance that they could top this total themselves. The Oilers have averaged five goals per match in their last four, so the offense has been effective lately. San Jose jettisoned their best goalkeeper, and they have some exciting players on offense but are often lacking on defense and goaltending now. We think there is nice value here on the over as we think the home team can put up a big scoreline and San Jose should do enough for their share of the total.

Both teams trend to the over on the season. The Sharks dealt their top goalie recently and have one of the worst goalkeeping situations in the league. At the same time, this team made some nice offensive moves in the offseason and they have a generational talent in rookie Celebrini. This offense is enough to keep them competitive, but this team will be playing in a lot of high scoring games. They have gone over in 7 of their last 10. The Avs offense has been inconsistent, but they have scored 5 or more in two of their last four games, and this seems like a matchup where the offense will get going. Colorado has 13 goals in the last three meetings, and we think they have a good chance to get 5 or 6 here, so even if this game isn’t competitive, we think the Avs will do enough to get this one over the total, and San Jose should be good for a couple as well.

Both teams trend to the over on the season. The Sharks gave up 8 to Tampa Bay the last time we saw them, and Florida should be able to achieve their offensive goals here today. Florida have 21 goals in their last five matches, so the offense is humming. We think San Jose is capable of getting a couple goals here too, so this one should sail over the posted number.

San Jose is a team we have had our eye on since the start of the season and we thought they would be much improved and they have been so far as they have been very competitive. They are pretty close to half the points they earned all last season, and that’s after just 24 games. They made some excellent moves in the offseason and they drafted a generational talent in Macklin Celebrini. This team had some of the lowest morale of any team in the last few years in the NHL last season, but now, with no pressure for the postseason this year, it is nothing but good times in San Jose and these guys are playing free and having fun. The fans are excited. Their offense has been somewhat inconsistent, but it has been good at home, where they have notched 14 goals in their last three games. That includes their biggest win of the year last time out as they destroyed their main rival, the LA Kings, 7-2 on Monday. They got offensive contributions from all over the ice, and the rookie nearly had a hat trick and probably would have if he wasn’t pulled early. So they come into this matchup with tons of confidence and some great offensive momentum. Ottawa have allowed at least three goals in six straight games. They scored seven in their last two on offense, against pretty good defensive clubs in Calgary and Vancouver, so they should get some goals here as well. We think San Jose can easily score 3 here, and with Ottawa a big road favorite, they should get their share to send this one sailing over the number. Four of the last five meetings have seen six goals or more scored, and this Sharks club has more potential than the squads that laced up the skates in any of those matchups.

Washington has been one of the top over teams this season so far and cashed another over ticket yesterday with seven goals against Columbus. Carolina has been an under team but they have been coming on strong offensively lately and they have at least four goals (including OT) in all of their last four games and exploded for eight against the Bruins last time out. Washington has 18 goals in their last three games. So we think both teams get their share of the total in what should be a high scoring affair.

These teams are a combined 13-6 to the over this season. The Blue Jackets have an inconsistent defense and their offense has performed better than expected. The Capitals have made some offseason moves meant to improve their offense and those moves have paid off so far. They have averaged more than 4 goals per game and they have 11 goals on offense in their last two games, so they are in excellent form right now. Columbus has been one of the best ATS teams in the league and they normally keep these games close. That is why they usually get their share of the total, even in a loss. We expect more of the same today.

This match is part of the NHL Global Series and being played in Finland. We think these teams will put on a show for the Finnish fans. We are getting a low number because of the stellar Dallas defense and goaltending, but Florida has been one of the top offensive clubs in the league. We think they will be able to break through for some goals today. And this should be a competitive game and we think both teams get their share of the betting total. Florida have gone over in seven of their last nine games overall and has been a solid bet on the over. Six of the last seven meetings have resulted in an over.

Both teams have been struggling offensively lately and we expect the struggles to continue here tonight. Utah has only seen offensive success against the Sharks in recent games. Other than that, they averaged a goal per game in their last four before they lost to the Sharks. Calgary has averaged fewer than two goals in each game for their last five after a strong offensive start. They have come back to earth a bit, and we see both teams struggling to find the back of the net today.

These teams played 10 days ago exactly and the Sharks were shut out in a 2-0 loss. There were plenty of shots on goal in that match and we just think that this one will see a lot more scoring. And we are getting a good price because of that first result. That was just the third game in the last 10 meetings that went under the total. Both of these teams are inconsistent defensively and both have some young, exciting players on offense even though the rookie is out for the Sharks. But they have some new blood on this squad and they should get their share of the total tonight while their defense has been giving up lots of goals and should do so again tonight.

Seven of the last nine meetings have gone over. This will be the opener for Anaheim and we like this young squad this season. They have a strong front line and should be aggressive against the suspect Sharks defense. San Jose seemingly had the game in hand against the Blues last time out but let the Hockey Club come back and score at will to eventually lose in OT. Their rookie No. 1 pick looked great, however, and this team looks like they will be a lot more competitive on the offensive end.

Last game was a defensive masterpiece but we just think the Rangers will get more aggressive and make some adjustments after getting shut out at home. We think they will have a much better offensive game here and the Panthers could as well. This one is heavily juiced to the under, but it’s pretty easy to get to six with two excellent offensive teams like this.

It’s telling that even though Game 1 saw seven goals scored that the under at 5.5 is still juiced here. Seems like the bookies are begging the public to take the over. We will side with the sportsbooks here. Four of the last six meetings have gone over the posted total. Some of these series in the NHL have some scoring early while teams are figuring each other out then the defenses step up in subsequent games, and that is what we expect to see here. Especially in Game 1 there was a burst of scoring in the first period then the game settled down after that. We expect a close, low scoring game here.

After going under in Game 1, Game 2 saw seven goals scored. We firmly believe that will be the highest total in this series. The Capitals have been competitive this season despite an anemic offense. They have gotten by on the strength of their defense, and they are going to need that defense to step up tonight if they want a chance to stay alive here. A loss would have them on the brink of elimination. They definitely have the ability to step up on defense here but we just don’t see them racking up the goals like they did in Game 2. We also don’t see the Rangers having their way on offense like they did in their first two games at home. We just think the home team plays their best defensive game of the series here at home whether they win or lose.

Crazy score for Game 1 but we just don’t see a repeat here. It’s telling that the oddsmakers didn’t raise the total to 6.5. The Kings are one of the best defensive teams in the league and you know they are embarrassed for allowing seven goals. We think they do everything in their power to hold Edmonton to a real low score. Four straight meetings before Game 1 went under the posted total and we think both teams step up the defense here in this critical Game 2.

We saw 13 goals in Game 1. While it’s tough to go under here after that result, we don’t think either team wants to give up goals like that and play that kind of defense so we think these teams will put an emphasis on defense here for Game 2. Before Game 2, the losing team had two or fewer goals in six straight meetings. We see a close, low-scoring game here and it’s telling that the total is only 6 here after what we saw in Game 1. Lots of public bettors will be jumping on the over.

These teams have gone under in three of four meetings. We think the Capitals are in tough here and we don’t see them notching more than a goal. They have scored only one in each of the last two visits to MSG, and the Rangers will undoubtedly ramp up their defensive intensity now that these games matter much more. The Capitals are here on the strength of their defense, and we think they will lean on the defense here as their offense won’t give them a chance to be competitive in a shootout. We think the Rangers score enough to win comfortably but not surpass the total here today.

Anaheim just can’t score right now. They have notched only 12 goals in their last 10 games. They put up a goose egg in four of those games as they couldn’t even muster a single goal. They are in tough tonight at Calgary, and we don’t see them breaking out here. Looks like they will have to rely on defense to stay competitive. They have been a bit inconsistent but overall they have been playing solid D, and they held the Canucks to only three goals last time out. Calgary hasn’t exactly been lighting the lamp themselves, and they have scored two or fewer in four of their last six. Four of the last five have gone under when these teams meet, and the last meeting was a 3-0 Calgary win. We expect a similar type game here.

Both teams have struggled offensively lately and especially the Ducks, who will have to rely on defense to stay competitive in this one. They have been shut out in four of their last nine games and scored 11 goals total in those nine games. It’s doubtful they are going to break out for a big day here. They have had a couple bad games defensively during that stretch but have generally been decent in defense, keeping the opposition from lighting up the scoreboard. Vancouver has been held to three or fewer goals in four of their last six games, and their offense isn’t exactly humming right now. We think they will get their goals, but nothing too crazy. They haven’t scored more than three goals in any of the last five meetings, and all of those games went under.

Calgary has been trending heavily to the over, and we think this one is headed that way as well. We expect a close game here and think both clubs will get their share of the total. All of the last three meetings have gone over the posted total, and those games have averaged more than eight goals each.

This is the first time in a long time we aren’t getting this matchup at 7 on the total. These teams have topped this total in seven straight meetings. Buffalo had been trending to the under, but they played high scoring games in their last two and now they are trending the other way. We think this will be a competitive game and both teams will get their share of the total. Both of the last two meetings saw 10 or more goals scored, and we think they will put on a show once again.

These teams played a very high scoring game about two weeks ago in Edmonton. That was just one of two games that have gone over in the last 10 meetings. We don’t see these teams having a repeat, and as we inch closer to the postseason we think teams will really start to amp up the defense in preparation. Edmonton hasn’t allowed more than two goals in four straight games, and Boston is coming off an excellent showing at Toronto, holding the Leafs to only one goal. 

This is a huge game for both teams and we think the defenses will be out in full force. Boston has lost three straight and they haven’t played great defense on the road, but you know they have been eyeing this matchup and will bring their best effort back at home. That effort will likely be on the defensive end, since Vegas isn’t going to allow a lot of goals. When two contenders meet late in the season like this, it should be a playoff like atmosphere, and that means stepping up on D. These teams met just last month in Vegas, and the game was tied 1-1 at the end of regulation. We see another situation similar happening tonight, and we just don’t see this being a high scoring matchup. Some may be scared away from the 5.5 low total, but not us and we love that we are getting nice juice on the thing.

None of the last six meetings have gone over, and four straight have gone under with two pushes. We expect another low scoring game here. Buffalo has been playing well recently and winning on the strength of their defense. They have held five of their last seven opponents to two or fewer goals. These teams played earlier this month in Buffalo, a 4-0 Panthers win. We don’t see Buffalo breaking out offensively here but expect them to continue with solid defense.

We always first look to the under when these teams play each other. They have a strong recent history for the under as eight of the last nine meetings have gone under the posted total. The Rangers were masterful defensively in their first game back from the break, as here at home they held the Avalanche to only one goal. We think they bring the same energy on defense tonight. And Tampa Bay is back for their first game after the break. This is one of the highlight games of their season playing in MSG and they should have a ton of energy on the defensive end and will want to get off to a strong start for their post all-star game stretch with the playoffs now on every team’s mind.

The Capitals didn’t look great on defense heading into the all-star break and we could see them giving up some goals here. Washington went over in three straight and four of five entering the break. Montreal has been wildly inconsistent on defense. Six of the last eight meetings between these teams have gone over, and we think this 5.5 total will be easy to beat in a competitive game.

Both teams had been trending to the over, but the all-star break will serve as a reset. And these teams should have lots of energy on defense tonight. Three straight meetings and four of five have gone under the posted total. And three of those were games that went to extra time. We expect a close, low-scoring, hard-fought game from both sides.

Seattle has dropped five of seven and they don’t deserve to be favored by any team by this much on the road right now. San Jose has won three of four and is actually in better form right now. We think this one will be low scoring, which makes getting the goals on the puckline even more valuable. Six of eight lifetime meetings have gone under the posted number.

Both teams have been offensively challenged lately and we don’t see either team breaking out for a big scoring night tonight. The losing team has scored one or fewer goals in six of the last seven meetings. Six of the last eight for Vegas have gone under the posted total, and two of the last three for NY have gone under. We expect a low scoring game here.

Arizona has been playing very strong defense recently, and their offense leaves a lot to be desired. We think this game goes one of two ways: a close, low scoring game, or a Vancouver blowout. We think both possibilities bode well for the under, and we just don’t see the Coyotes engaging in a shootout here.

These teams have been trending in the opposite directions as far as totals go, with the Capitals trending heavily to the over and the Kraken trending to the under. But any time you see a total at 5.5 you have to look at the over and see if it makes sense. We think it does tonight. The Kraken have gotten good offensive production lately and have scored an average of four goals in their last three games. Washington’s defense has given up an average of five goals per game in the last three. We see both teams here getting their share of the total in what we think will be a competitive game.

Great value here as four of the last five meetings have totaled nine goals or higher. We expect a shootout here. These are two of the best over teams in the NHL as the over is 45-27-3 combined in their games this season. The Devils had a streak of three straight overs snapped last yesterday against the Blackhawks. We were on the under in that game because of the poor Chicago offense. The Canucks are much better, and the Devils defense won’t be effective on a back-to-back. We see a competitive game and both teams get their share of the total tonight.

The Blackhawks have one of the worst offenses in the NHL and we just don’t think they will have any success here tonight on the offensive end. If they want to be competitive here, they need to step up the defense. Two of the last three meetings have gone under, including the 4-2 Devils in in Chicago in November that was only close because of an empty netter.

The over is 8-1-1 in the last 10 meetings and these clubs always create some fireworks when they meet on the ice. These teams met earlier this month and 13 total goals were scored. Four of the last seven meetings have seen 10 or more goals scored. Columbus has been a hot over team recently and their offense has been playing well above the defense. Buffalo has had two straight games against the best of the best defensively, and you just get the feeling the offense will break out here on Saturday.

San Jose scored a lot of goals on their recent road trip but we watched some of those games and some of those goals were a bit flukish. Hats off to San Jose because they have been playing better, but maybe not as well as those scores might indicate, at least on offense. And they face a tough test tonight against a Winnipeg squad with one of the best defenses in the NHL. They are playing exceptionally well at the moment and have allowed less than two goals per game on average in their last four, all against teams better than the Sharks. This team has been hitting the under at a high rate recently and also for the season. We think the Sharks will step up the defense as they are home and rested and we expect a low scoring affair here.

Columbus is coming in on a back-to-back and they allowed a ton of goals to the Islanders last night and we don’t see them bouncing back defensively here. St. Louis has won three of the last four meetings by three goals apiece, and we don’t expect a drained Columbus team, playing their third game in four nights, to play well defensively.

San Jose averaged a little over half a goal on the road headed into this road trip and hadn’t scored more than one goal in a road game this season. But all the sudden their offense is looking like the Oilers in their prime. They have averaged five goals per game in their last three, not including overtime, and two of those games were against strong defensive teams, the two NY clubs. Their defense has given up four goals per game on this road trip. We think they will continue to see success on offense and expect another high scoring game here.

Four straight meetings have gone over the posted total, and we expect a very competitive game here and a shootout. These teams have combined to go 32-13 to the over this season. The Devils have gone over in four straight games. These are two Top 4 offensive teams for goals scored. We see both teams getting at least three goals here, and the winner could score well above that. The winner when these teams have met has had at least five goals for the last four meetings.

Washington is 15-6 to the under this season and we think this is a trend that could stay strong all season. They play great defense, their offense leave a lot to be desired, but they find ways to win. The under is 4-1 in the last five meetings in Arizona and 18-7-1 in the last 26 meetings. Arizona has been playing very good defense lately.

7-Unit Play Take Buffalo/Washington  UNDER 6.5 (-120) (7 p.m. EST, Wednesday November 22)

These teams are a combined 23-9 to the under this season. We expect another low scoring game here. Buffalo was one of the best offensive teams in the NHL last season. But that has been anything but the case this season. Their offense is ranked No. 24 in the NHL at 2.8 goals per game. They have been even worse lately, where they have averaged only two goals per game in their last six, including one shutout. Washington is even worse offensively, on average, at No. 31 in scoring. The Capitals have built their impressive record on the back of their defense, which is No. 6 in goals allowed. Buffalo has also been much stronger on the defensive side. Since the league was off Tuesday, these teams should be well rested and bring a lot of energy on defense, especially since they have Thursday off as well. The under is 4-0 in the Sabres last four road games. The under is 8-2 in the Caps last 10 home games. We feel like there is great value in the under tonight.

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Calgary has been offensively challenged lately but they have been good on defense. Vancouver looks to be in a letdown spot after a rally and OT win vs. the Islanders last night. We could see them struggling to find the back of the net, and it’s doubtful that Calgary is going to light up the scoreboard tonight.

It’s rare to get a NY Islanders total in the 6.5 range and we will take advantage tonight. They have had only three totals this season at 6.5, and all three have gone under. This Islanders team is known for defense and goaltending, but their strength is definitely not scoring. They are No. 30 in the league for goals scored. Edmonton isn’t far ahead at 26th for goals on the season. They scored four last time out in a rare win. That was the first time in five games they had more than three goals. The oddsmakers seem to think this team is going to turn a corner and they are lining them as such. But we will believe it when we see it. Even if Edmonton was in top form, New York has the ability to compete with them on the defensive end. But the Oilers are a long way from top form, and we expect both teams to struggle on the offensive end tonight. The under has hit in four straight meetings.

We expect a competitive game here and think the Capitals have a chance to win. We think both teams will get their goals tonight. Four of the last five meetings have gone over the posted number, and seven of nine meetings in Washington.

We see a very competitive game here and we were tempted to go with the Kings at a nice price, but we think the total is the best way to attack this matchup. These teams are playing well to start the season and they are both Top 10 offensively. Actually, the Kings are No. 1 at 4.4 goals per contest. The over is 7-1 for Los Angeles to start the season and we see both teams getting their share of the total tonight.

The Devils are a perfect 5-0 to the over this season and we think they will continue that trend tonight. Their offense is one of the best in the league, and their defense gives the opposition just enough to cover their share of the total, which these teams have done in four of the last six meetings. Both played last night, so defensive legs should be tired on a back-to-back.

Buffalo had one of the best offenses in the NHL last season, but they have been a little slow to start off this season, as they rank No. 25 for goals scored. We don’t see them languishing in the bottom half of the league for long. They have scored three each in their last two games, and they seem to be getting better on offense. The last game was pretty impressive since they went against the Islanders, one of the best defensive teams in the league. Tonight they face a team that is not on that level. The Canadiens allow 3.5 goals per game and stand as No. 22 defensively. We think Buffalo can have their break out game offensively here and put up a real big number. They have scored 10 goals in the last two meetings.

The Devils have gone over for all three games to start the season, while the Islanders have gone under in both of their two games. Something has got to give tonight. But we expect a competitive game here and think both teams will get their goals. New York has a great defense and goalkeeping. That’s not a question. But they have also played a struggling Buffalo team to start the season then a work-in-progress Coyotes squad that was on the second night of a back to back. But the Devils are going to bring some strong offense here. They have scored at least three goals in all three games so far and have allowed at least that many through three games. They are on a 7-1 over streak stretching back to last season. We see the Islanders having their break out game offensively so far on the season – that will be a goal to get some goals here.

Both teams come in on a two-game win streak and both have been scoring well, with Pittsburgh scoring nine in those games and Detroit 10. This should be a competitive matchup and we think both teams will contribute to the scoreboard tonight. The last meeting barely went under, but that was the first time in five meetings that this matchup was lower scoring. The over is 9-4 in the last 13 meetings in Detroit.

Both of the Devils games have gone over so far and we think this will be a competitive game where both teams see the back of the net multiple times. We know Florida is down from last season, but this team is no pushover and they will be firing shots all night.

Two straight in this series have gone over the posted total as well as five of the last seven. We think these offenses will be ahead of the defenses to start the season and expect both teams to find the back of the net for multiple goals, and the Pens should put up a big number here in the home opener. Chicago always plays well enough on offense when these two meet to where we don’t have to worry about a shutout or one-goal effort.

The Vegas offense has played well in these playoffs, and that is why six of their last nine games have gone over the posted total. They continued that trend in Game 1 with a 5-goal outburst. We see their offense having success tonight as well, but we do think this will likely be a more competitive game and that Florida will get their share of goals to eclipse this total. Remember, they led the league in shots per game this season and we think the pace here will be swift and both squads will have plenty of chances to score.

We just still think the hangover from Game 1 is still hanging heavy on these teams and we don’t anticipate a fast-paced game. We expect Carolina to dominate on defense here and we think they pull ahead in the third in a low scoring game.

After this brutal four-OT game in Game 1 we just don’t see any pace here in this game and we think this will be a slow-paced defensive slugfest of a game. Carolina has one of the best defenses in the league, and they will step it up tonight in a must win affair. The under is 31-15-7 in the last 53 meetings in Carolina.

As we saw on Thursday, the conference finals are a different beast. These two have a long history for the under, and that is the direction we see this one going in as well. These are two very good defensive teams and neither will want to give the other the early edge. The under is 12-3-2 in the last 17 meetings and 4-1-1 in the last six meetings in Vegas.

Two great defensive teams and an overwhelming trend for the under in meetings in Carolina (18-6-4). We think these two very solid defensive teams will take each other to the test on Thursday and we think the total juice will be adjusted for Game 2.

This series has been lower scoring than expected and three of the last four games going under, with Game 6 going over by the slimmest of margins. This is a close out game, so we expect both teams to give their all on defense here. As this series continues, these teams have become very familiar with each other and one defense has excelled in most of these games. But we see both defenses shining today, and we are getting excellent value here at plus money.  

We expect a competitive game here as Toronto has their season on the line and we think both teams will get their share of the total here. All three games in the series have gone under as Toronto has managed only two goals per contest, but the oddsmakers are heavily juicing the over here, and that tells us a lot. We think Toronto opens up the offense here in a last gasp effort, and we see the highest scoring game of the series so far tonight.

Vegas couldn’t get anything going on offense in Game 2, but that will change here as we don’t see them having consecutive bad games. And we think it’s fair to say that the Knights can’t slow down the Oilers. But we see a more competitive game here and we think both teams will get their share of the total here.

Games 1 and 2 have gone under only because of the lackluster Toronto offense. But they are in a must win here and we see their offense playing a lot better today. We see both teams getting their share of the total but expect the Leafs to come out on top here. The road team is 5-0 in the last five meetings.

Game 1 opened with a burst of scoring, but now that these teams have settled in we see defense, defense, defense. After the high scoring game it is very telling that the line came out juiced like this, and the bookies are begging bettors to take the over here but we will side with the bookies here in what should be a very low scoring matchup.

The Devils really stepped up the defense vs. the Rangers and that is the reason they are here. We don’t think they will change the strategy here. These are two of the best defenses in the league, and they have stepped it up further in the playoffs. They also played in physical series and we think these teams might be a bit sluggish or apprehensive here in Game 1.

Paying some juice here but we think there is still value. Both of these teams first round series were under machines, and we think this series will be low scoring as well. Best to get in before the lines move to a flat five. Especially in Game 1 we see both teams settling into the series and we don’t see them getting aggressive or the pace being particularly fast.

Four of the six games in this series have gone over, with three straight being high scoring affairs. We think this series has turned into an offensive battle and we expect scoring from both teams today. Florida was really a bad matchup for Boston in the first round. This team has nothing to lose, and their offense has been clicking. They lead the league in shots taken almost all the way through, and we think they will be aggressive here. The Panthers defense hasn’t shown they have an answer for the Boston offense. Should be a great match and we hope to see the kind of scoring we saw in Game 6!

Four of the games in this series have gone over the posted total. We love the over here, and at a fair price. Florida was almost cooked, but now they have life and a legitimate chance to tie this series up at home. They should bring their A Game to the ice tonight, and to us that means offense. And they have shown they can’t stop Boston on defense from putting up at least three goals, which they have done every game in this series. So they will have to get the job done on offense.

This series has turned into a defensive battle, and we think that will continue in this pivotal Game 5 as one team will be one game away from advancing. The last two games in the series combined scores in regulation would barely surpass this total, and that is in six periods of hockey, so we think in three tonight that we will definitely stay under the number. The Rangers have been a hot under team stretching back to the regular season, and we think both defenses will go all out tonight in order to give them the best chance to extend their seasons.

Boston has scored 10 goals in the last two games in this series, and we don’t see Florida doing anything to slow them down. They scored six last time out and could easily hit this total by themselves. Only the first game in this series went under six goals, and we think the Panthers might be competitive here in a last gasp to save their season. This team is No. 1 in shots per game, so they should have plenty of chances here.

These are two of the top under teams in the league this season and we think the defenses will step it up here in a low scoring game. These teams met here a couple weeks ago, and we saw a 2-1 Hurricanes win. That was the second time in three meetings these teams combined for three goals. We think we could see a repeat here, and we don’t see either team breaking out for a big offensive night. With two Top 5 defenses, it’s no wonder why we are seeing this juice tonight.

Two teams with nothing to play for will want to give the fans a show tonight. These are two of the better over teams in the NHL, and we don’t see much effort coming on defense tonight. These are two of the worst defensive teams in the league. Six straight meetings have gone over, and the over is 12-2 in the last 14 meetings in Columbus.