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*).

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

The Lightning have looked like a different team since an embarrassing home loss against the Flyers back on October 18th. That loss dropped the Bolts to 1-3 to start the season. Since then, they've gone 5-1, including a come-from-behind 4-3 win over Ottawa here on home ice two nights ago. I look for them to continue to build positive momentum as they host the Hurricanes on Thursday. Carolina has won back-to-back games but it is seven games removed from its last victory by more than a single goal - illustrating how razor thin its margin for error is at the moment. Note that the Lightning check in 10-1 in their last 11 games following a one-goal victory over a division opponent, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 1.8 goals on average in that situation. Meanwhile, the Canes have been outscored by 0.8 goals on average in their last 72 road games following a home victory over a divisional foe, which is also the situation here. Take Tampa Bay (8*).

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

Both of these teams have struggled in the early going this season but I like what I've seen from the Sharks lately, even if the wins haven't come with much consistency. San Jose is coming off a 4-3 loss against Tampa Bay but still checks in 3-3 over its last six games with the other two losses coming against the Golden Knights and Devils - two teams that are off terrific starts to the season. The Ducks finally snapped their seven-game losing streak with an overtime win over the reeling Maple Leafs on Sunday. During that long losing skid they scored two goals or less on six occasions. I'm not convinced the Ducks are out of the woods just yet and here we'll note that they're 0-10 in their last 10 games after a one-goal victory on home ice, as is the case here, outscored by 2.7 goals on average in that situation. Meanwhile, the Sharks are 14-6 in their last 20 games after allowing 3+ goals in three consecutive games, which is also the situation here, outscoring opponents by 0.6 goals on average in that spot. Take San Jose (8*).

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

I really like the way this spot sets up for the Blues to finally snap their four-game losing streak at home against the Kings on Monday. St. Louis hasn't won a game since October 22nd, when it skated to a 2-0 win in Edmonton. I expect the Blues to get back to that type of hard-nosed defensive play here as they catch the Kings off a 4-2 home win over the reeling Maple Leafs on Saturday. Here, we'll note that St. Louis has gone 11-3 the last 14 times it has come off a game in which it allowed 6+ goals, as is the case here following Saturday's 7-4 loss to Montreal, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.0 goal in that situation. The Blues are also 14-4 the last 18 times they've played at home off consecutive losses by 2+ goals, which is also the situation here, outscoring the opposition by 1.3 goals on average in that spot. Keep in mind, the Blues were priced at -170 or worse in their two home matchups against Los Angeles last season. We're being offered a much more reasonable price here thanks to their recent struggles. I expect them to bounce back. Take St. Louis (8*).

Underdog Game of the Month. My selection is on Vancouver over Pittsburgh at 10:05 pm et on Friday.

The Canucks finally picked up their first win of the season last night in Seattle and I look for them to build off the positive momentum provided by that victory as they return home to host the Penguins on Friday. Pittsburgh scored 26 goals in its first five games this season but has been held to only four in the first two games of its current four-game road trip. Worse still, after holding five straight opponents to three goals or less, the Pens have been lit up for 10 goals over their last two contests. Meanwhile, Vancouver posted its highest scoring output of the season in last night's win, providing a glimmer of hope as it enters this key four-game homestand. Note that the Canucks will be playing with double-revenge here after dropping both of last season's meetings with Pittsburgh. The Pens haven't posted three straight victories over the Canucks since 2016-17. Take Vancouver (10*).

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

I really like the way this spot sets up for the Oilers, who will be looking to avenge a pair of losses against the Hurricanes last season (in which they scored just two goals). Edmonton opened the campaign with a 5-3 win over the Canucks (which perhaps doesn't look as impressive given how poorly Vancouver has played). Since then, the Oilers have dropped consecutive home games against Calgary and Buffalo with the latter coming in embarrassing fashion two nights ago. Carolina is off to a perfect 3-0 start including consecutive wins to open its current five-game road trip. Here, we'll note that the Canes have gone a poor 42-74 the last 116 times they've played on the road following three straight victories. Meanwhile, the Oilers have outscored opponents by an average margin of 0.9 goals when playing at home after losing two of their last three games going back to the start of last season (22-game sample size). Take Edmonton (10*).

Non-Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Nashville over Los Angeles at 9:35 pm et on Tuesday.

The Kings have secured consecutive wins to open their current road trip, including a wild 5-4 overtime victory last night in Detroit. The Predators opened the season with a pair of wins over the Sharks in Prague but have suffered a hangover of sorts since returning, dropping both games in a home-and-home series against the Stars. After a couple of days off, I look for the Preds to bounce back here, noting that they've gone an incredible 10-2 when coming off consecutive losses by 2+ goals over the last 2+ seasons, outscoring opponents by 1.4 goals on average in that spot. Nashville took the first two meetings between these two teams last season before letting its guard down and dropping a lopsided 6-1 decision in Los Angeles in late March. The Kings haven't recorded a victory in Nashville since back in 2016. Take Nashville (10*).

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

We're being asked to lay a reasonable price to back the Capitals as they host the Bruins on Wednesday night. Boston took two of three meetings between these two teams last season but I look for a different story to unfold on Wednesday at least. The Bruins fired head coach Bruce Cassidy at the end of last season, hiring previously exiled Stars coach Jim Montgomery in a bit of a perplexing move. Regardless, the Bruins start the campaign at less than full strength with Brad Marchand, Charlie McAvoy and Matt Grzelcyk sidelined. The Caps won't have the services of veteran Nick Backstrom or Tom Wilson to start the season but I like the additions they made with Connor Brown joining the top line with Alex Ovechkin and Dylan Strome centering the second line. I'm anticipating somewhat of a sophomore slump for Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman while the Caps make the move to Darcy Kuemper, who is only a few months removed from a Stanley Cup title with the Avalanche. While that move could be questioned, I do think the Caps have enough firepower to outlast the B's on opening night. Take Washington (8*).

My selection is on Colorado over Tampa Bay at 8:15 pm et on Sunday.

We won with the Lightning in Game 3, the Avalanche in Game 4 and the Lightning on the puck-line in Game 4. Here, I won't hesitate to switch gears once again and back Colorado as it looks to hoist the Stanley Cup on Sunday night in Tampa. Credit the Lightning for battling their way to a hard-fought 3-2 victory in Game 5 of this series on Friday. It wasn't all that difficult to see coming, however, as we're talking about the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions. The fourth win in a series is always the most difficult when it comes to the Stanley Cup Playoffs and the Avalanche have found that out first hand in each and every series so far. Just as they did against St. Louis in the second round, I look for Colorado to bounce back from a home loss in Game 5 with a road win in Game 6. There's no question the Avalanche have been the better team in this series but they obviously felt the pressure playing in front of the Cup-starved (Colorado's last Stanley Cup was won in 2001) home faithful. Look for the Avs to play much looser in Game 6 and ultimately prevail. Take Colorado (10*).

NHL Game of the Year. My selection is on Colorado over Tampa Bay at 8:15 pm et on Wednesday.

We won with the Lightning in Game 3 of this series on Monday as Tampa Bay showed up with its best effort of the series to avoid an 0-3 hole. Now I look for the Avs to answer back and push the Bolts to the brink of elimination before the series shifts back to Colorado for Game 5. It certainly wasn't surprising to see Tampa Bay push back and deliver a lopsided victory on Monday. After all, we are talking about the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions. The Lightning weren't simply going to roll over, certainly not on home ice. Things could have gone differently, however, were it not for an early disallowed Avalanche goal due to an offside call by way of review. Here, we'll note that Colorado checks in 34-12 when seeking revenge for a loss by 2+ goals against an opponent over the last three seasons, outscoring the opposition by 1.4 goals on average in that situation. While the Lightning may be known for their offensive prowess, this series certainly hasn't been played at their preferred pace. Note that they're a woeful 11-19 after three consecutive games totalling 7+ goals over the last three seasons, as is the case here, allowing 3.4 goals and outscored by 0.2 goals on average in that spot. Colorado has yet to lose consecutive games in these playoffs. It did drop six of seven games at the tail-end of the regular season but that was after it had wrapped up the President's Trophy and was more focused on managing the playing time of its stars. You would have to go all the way back to March 8th and 10th to find the last time the Avs lost consecutive 'meaningful' games and in that situation they were playing a third road game in four nights against a tough opponent in Carolina. You would have to go back eight meetings in this series to find the last time the Lightning managed to defeat the Avalanche in consecutive matchups, with that last taking place in October and December 2018. Take Colorado (10*).

My selection is on Tampa Bay over Colorado at 8:15 pm et on Monday.

Some will point to Saturday's 7-0 drubbing in Game 2 of this series as a reason for why it's difficult to back the Lightning here in Game 3 on Monday. I actually feel the lopsided nature of that game - which was never competitive - will serve the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions well in this spot as they were completely embarrassed 48 hours ago. Here, we'll note that the Lightning check in a perfect 9-0 when playing at home after losing two of their last three games this season, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 2.2 goals on average in that spot. They're also an incredible 18-2 when playing at home seeking revenge for a loss in which their opponent scored 4+ goals over the last two seasons, outscoring the opposition by 2.1 goals in that situation. As I've noted time and time again in these playoffs, long winning streaks just aren't commonplace in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, yet here we find the Avs off seven consecutive victories. Look for that streak to finally come to an end on Monday. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

Eastern Conference Final Game of the Year. My selection is on Tampa Bay over New York at 8 pm et on Tuesday.

We won with the Lightning in Game 3 of this series on Sunday as they rallied from a 2-0 deficit to prevail by a 3-2 score. I won't hesitate to go back to the well with Tampa Bay again in Game 4 on Tuesday as it looks to knot this series at two games apiece before heading back to Manhattan. The Lightning are now 32-15 on home ice this season including 5-1 in the playoffs. While the Bolts are known for their offense, they've been as stingy as they come here on home ice, allowing just 2.6 goals per game this season while outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals on average. The same trend we used to support our play on Tampa Bay in Game 3 still works in Game 4 as the Bolts are now an incredible 16-1 when playing at home after losing two of their last three games over the last two seasons, allowing just 1.7 goals per contest and outscoring opponents by 1.8 goals on average in that situation. The Rangers just haven't been the same team away from Madison Square Garden this season, posting a modest 27-22 record while failing to outscore their opponents on a per-game average. It seemed to me that the Lightning solved Rangers elite goaltender Igor Shesterkin as the game went on Sunday afternoon, peppering him with an incredible 52 shots on goal in that contest and finding the back of the net three times in the final 30 minutes. Expect some carry-over from that thrilling come-from-behind victory on Tuesday. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

NHL Game of the Week. My selection is on Tampa Bay over New York at 3 pm et on Sunday.

As I've pointed out time and time again in these playoffs, long winning streaks just aren't commonplace in the NHL postseason. We saw that play out at the start of this series as the Rangers snapped Tampa's six-game winning streak with a victory in Game 1 (and then went on to win Game 2 as well). Now we'll look for the Lightning to bring an end to the Rangers four-game winning streak, noting that New York is just 5-15 when playing on the road after scoring 3+ goals in three consecutive games over the last two seasons, outscored by 1.4 goals on average in that situation. Meanwhile, the Lightning are an incredible 12-1 when playing at home seeking revenge for a one-goal loss against an opponent over the same stretch, outscoring the opposition by 2.2 goals on average. Tampa Bay also checks in 15-1 when playing at home coming off two losses in its last three games over the last two seasons, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 1.9 goals on average in that spot. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

Metropolitan Division Playoff Game of the Year. My selection is on New York over Carolina at 8 pm et on Saturday.

Game 5 of this series was interesting as the Hurricanes jumped ahead 1-0 early before the Rangers quickly tied things up and then New York seemingly grabbed a 2-1 lead in the second period before that goal was called back. From there the tide turned back in the hometown Canes favor as they went on to score the next two goals in a 3-1 victory. Who knows how that contest would have played out were it not for the disallowed Rangers goal. New York certainly carried the play for much of the game, outshooting Carolina by a wide 34-17 margin. That was the fourth straight game in which the Rangers held the advantage in terms of shots on goal. I like New York to bounce back here at home, where it has gone an impressive 32-15 this season, outscoring opponents by 1.0 goal on average. The Canes are actually one of the weakest road teams remaining in the playoffs, with a 25-21 record, outscoring opponents by 0.4 goals on average but allowing just shy of 3.0 goals per contest. Note here that the Rangers are 11-3 when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent this season, outscoring the opposition by 1.3 goals on average in that spot. Better still, the Blueshirts are 7-1 when that road loss came by 2+ goals, which is the situation here, outscoring opponents by 1.3 goals on average along the way. The home team has now won all 12 games the Hurricanes have played in these playoffs. I'm not going to go against the grain here. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Colorado over St. Louis at 8 pm et on Friday.

The Avalanche couldn't close the deal in Game 5 on Wednesday, despite building a 3-0 lead and seemingly having proceedings in full control. While the Blues did well to battle back and ultimately win in overtime, I don't expect them to turn the trick again on Friday. Note that the Blues 'home ice advantage' has been virtually non-existent lately, 0-2 in this series and 2-5 over their last five games here in St. Louis. Colorado checks in 28-17 on the road this season where it has outscored opponents by an average margin of 0.5 goals. There's just not a lot for the Blues to hang their hat on here, even after Wednesday's thrilling victory, noting that they've been outshot 71-50 over the last two games and goaltender Ville Husso has performed admirably since taking over for an injured Jordan Binnington, but he's in no position to steal a game having allowed nine goals over the last two games. Take Colorado (10*).

Western Conference Second Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Calgary over Edmonton at 9:30 pm et on Thursday.

The Flames ran into a buzz-saw in Edmonton, dropping both games to fall behind 3-1 in this series. In fact, the Oilers have won three games in a row since losing the series-opener by a 9-6 score. As I've noted previously, long winning streaks just aren't commonplace in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. We've seen it time and time again. Here, I look for the Flames to answer back on home ice, where they're 29-18 and outscore opponents by 1.3 goals on average this season. We'll also note that the Oilers are a woeful 2-12 the last 14 times they've played on the road after consecutive home wins by 2+ goals, as is the case here, outscored by 1.3 goals on average along the way. Take Calgary (10*).

My selection is on Carolina over New York at 7 pm et on Thursday.

We missed with the Hurricanes on the puck-line on Tuesday as they fell by a 4-1 score at Madison Square Garden. With the scene shifting back to Raleigh for Game 5 - where the Canes are a perfect 6-0 in these playoffs - I won't hesitate to come right back with them again here. Carolina has been incredibly stingy here at home this season, going 35-12 while allowing just 2.0 goals per contest. Needless to say, that's critical in a tight-checking, low-scoring series such as this one. New York checks in 26-20 on the road but has actually failed to outscore the opposition by any margin, allowing 2.9 goals per game. This is one of our preferred spots to back the Canes, noting that they've allowed just 2.1 goals per contest and outscored opponents by 0.9 goals on average when playing at home after losing two of their last three games over the last two seasons (23-game sample size). Take Carolina (8*).

My selection is on New York over Carolina at 3:30 pm et on Sunday.

The Hurricanes have now won three games in a row - their longest such streak of the playoffs to date. Off a shutout victory in Game 2, I look for the Canes to suffer a letdown in Game 3 as the scene shifts to Madison Square Garden. Note that Carolina is a miserable 1-6 when coming off consecutive games in which it allowed one goal or less over the last two seasons, as is the case here. They're also a miserable 41-70 when coming off 3+ consecutive victories in the long-term picture. The Rangers are an impressive 8-1 when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent in which they were shut out over the last two seasons. They've also 10-2 when coming off consecutive losses this season, which is also the situation here. Take New York (8*).

My selection is on Florida over Tampa Bay at 1:30 pm et on Sunday.

As I've mentioned on numerous occasions previously, long winning streaks just aren't commonplace in the NHL Playoffs. Here, the Lightning will be looking to deliver a fifth consecutive victory after improbably taking Games 1 and 2 in Sunrise. Note that the Bolts are 2-6 after winning 4+ games in a row this season. I look for the Panthers to answer back on Sunday afternoon. Florida has now dropped consecutive games, its longest losing streak since dropping three in a row from February 22nd to 26th. The Cats are 13-2 after being held to one goal or less in their previous game over the last two seasons and 30-15 when playing on the road off a loss over the last three seasons. Take Florida (9*).

Central Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Colorado over St. Louis at 8 pm et on Saturday.

We cashed our free play on the Blues puck-line in Game 2 of this series on Thursday but I won't hesitate to go the other way and back the Avs as the series shifts to St. Louis on Saturday. After a dominant performance in Game 1 (Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington stood on his head in that overtime loss), Colorado was brought back to Earth in Game 2. That wasn't all that surprising, as I noted in my analysis that long winning streaks aren't all that commonplace in the NHL Playoffs (the Avs had won five games in a row to open the postseason). Now I look for Colorado to answer back, noting that it has gone 18-5 when seeking revenge for a loss in which it scored one goal or less over the last three seasons, outscoring opponents by 1.5 goals on average in that situation. Meanwhile, the Blues are just 5-12 in their last 17 games when tied in a playoff series and playing on home ice (including 0-1 in these playoffs), outscored by 0.8 goals on average in that spot. Take Colorado (10*).

Second Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Florida over Tampa Bay at 7 pm et on Thursday.

We missed with the Panthers in Game 1. I can't help but think after grabbing an early 1-0 lead they thought the Lightning would just roll over, especially with Brayden Point sidelined and coming off a grueling seven-game series against the Leafs that saw them rally to win the final two games. That wasn't the case of course as Tampa Bay outmuscled Florida in a 4-1 victory. Now it's on the Panthers to bounce back and I expect them to do just that on Thursday. Note that Florida checks in an incredible 13-1 when coming off a game in which it scored one goal or less over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 1.4 goals on average in that spot. Perhaps better still, the Panthers are 20-3 when playing at home after allowing 3+ goals in consecutive games over the same stretch, outscoring opponents by 2.1 goals on average while putting up an incredible 4.7 goals per contest. We know this is a critical contest for the Panthers as they can ill afford to dig themselves an 0-2 hole the way they did against the Lightning in last year's opening round playoff series. As I've noted previously, long winning streaks just aren't commonplace in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. I suppose I should have taken my own advice in Game 1 of this series as the Panthers were looking for a fourth straight win. Now it's the Lightning that will be aiming to win a fourth consecutive game. I expect them to fall short. Take Florida (10*).

My selection is on Carolina over New York at 7 pm et on Wednesday.

Long winning streaks aren't commonplace in the NHL Playoffs - at least not anymore. We saw evidence of that again last night as the Panthers failed to deliver a fourth straight victory, falling by a 4-1 score at home against the Lightning. Here, the Rangers will be aiming for their fourth consecutive win after rallying from a 3-1 series deficit to prevail in overtime in Game 7 against the Penguins last round. I expect them to fall short in Wednesday's series-opener. Carolina remains undefeated on home ice in these playoffs - an impressive accomplishment considering it faced a team that enjoyed plenty of road success during the regular season in the Bruins during the opening round. The Canes are now an incredible 33-12 on home ice this season, allowing a stingy 2.1 goals per game while outscoring opponents by 1.2 goals on average. They catch the Rangers in a favorable spot here, noting that New York has gone 5-14 when coming off three consecutive games scoring 3+ goals over the last two seasons, outscored by an average margin of 1.5 goals in that situation. Take Carolina (8*).

My selection is on Florida over Tampa Bay at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

The Lightning rallied to win consecutive games after falling behind 3-2 in the series against the Leafs last round, adding to Toronto's long history of playoff collapses. Now Tampa makes the short trip to Sunrise to face the in-state rival Panthers and I look for it to fall short in Game 1. Florida hasn't just been good at home this season, it has been dominant, going 36-8 while outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 1.7 goals. The fact that Tampa took the most recent meeting between these two teams by an 8-4 score back in late April actually serves Florida well, noting that it has gone 15-3 when playing at home seeking revenge for a loss by 2+ goals against an opponent over the last three seasons, outscoring the opposition by 1.5 goals on average in that spot. The Panthers also own an incredible 15-2 record when playing at home off a victory this season, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 2.6 goals in that situation. Take Florida (8*).

My selection is on Carolina over Boston at 4:35 pm et on Saturday.

The home team has owned this series, winning all six games to date. I expect that trend to continue in Game 7 on Saturday as the Hurricanes wrap up the series on home ice. Note that Carolina checks in allowing just 2.1 goals per game and outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals on average when playing at home after losing two of their last three games over the last two seasons (22-game sample size), as is the case here. The Canes have averaged an impressive 3.7 goals per game when seeking revenge for a road loss by 2+ goals over the same stretch (11-game sample size), which is also the situation here. Credit Boston for forcing a seventh-and-deciding game in this series but its victory in Game 6 was anything but unexpected (we won with the Bruins in that game). The fact is, none of the games in this series have been all that close with the home side dominating and there's little reason to expect anything different here. Take Carolina (6*).

My selection is on Tampa Bay over Toronto at 7:30 pm et on Thursday.

We've yet to see a team register consecutive wins in this series and I don't think that changes here as the Lightning face elimination on home ice. Note that Toronto is just 8-13 when playing on the road after scoring 3+ goals in four consecutive games over the last two seasons, allowing 3.9 goals per game and outscored by 0.3 goals on average in that situation. They've also gone just 8-12 when coming off a home win by one goal over that same stretch. Meanwhile, the Lightning check in an incredible 14-1 when playing at home after losing two of their last three games over the last two seasons, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 1.9 goals on average. They've also gone 24-5 when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent over the same stretch, averaging 3.7 goals per game and outscoring the opposition by 1.6 goals on average in that spot. Take Tampa Bay (6*).

Non-Division First Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Boston over Carolina at 7 pm et on Thursday.

Home ice advantage has mattered in this playoff series. That's actually an understatement as the home team has outscored the opposition by a 24-8 margin through the first five games with all five of those contests decided by 2+ goals. The Bruins did welcome Charlie McAvoy back from Covid protocols last time out but it wasn't enough as they dug themselves an early hole and never recovered. I expect a different story to play out on Thursday. Note that Boston has allowed just 1.9 goals per game and outscored opponents by 0.8 goals on average when playing at home after losing four or five of its last six games over the last two seasons (18-game sample size), as is the case here. On the flip side, the Canes have gone 16-25 when playing on the road after winning five or six of their last seven contests over the last three seasons, allowing 3.3 goals per game while being outscored by 0.4 goals on average in that spot. While it's not well-advised to employ such a hot-and-cold style, especially at this time of year, the Bruins have the talent on hand to 'flip the switch' so to speak. We saw it when the scene shifted to Boston earlier this season as the B's looked like a completely different team in Games 3 and 4 on home ice. Note that they check in 5-1 off a loss by 4+ goals this season and 10-4 after scoring one goal or less in their previous game. Take Boston (10*).

My selection is on Calgary over Dallas at 9:30 pm et on Wednesday.

It may sound strange given the series is knotted at two games apiece, but no first round matchup has been as lopsided as this one. We won with the Flames in Game 4 on Monday and I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play here as the scene shifts back to Calgary for Game 5. The Flames fired a whopping 95 shots on goal over the course of Games 3 and 4 in Dallas but only managed to come away with one victory. They've outshot the Stars 150-106 in this series. I don't expect the tide to suddenly turn in Calgary, noting that the Stars average just 2.5 goals per game while being outscored by an average margin of 0.6 goals on the road this season. They're a woeful 7-19 when heading out on the road following a home game over the last two seasons, outscored by 1.4 goals on average in that situation. The Flames good but not great 26-17 home record doesn't tell the whole story as they've averaged 3.7 goals per game on home ice while allowing just 2.3 on average. Take Calgary (4*).

My selection is on Calgary over Dallas at 9:30 pm et on Monday.

We missed with the Flames in Game 3 of this series on Saturday but I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play in Game 4 on Monday. Most expected this to be a relatively quick series with the Flames the heavy favorite heading in. It hasn't played out that way, however, with Dallas rebounding from a 1-0 loss in Game 1 with consecutive victories. While the Stars have gone an impressive 28-14 at home this season, nearly half of those 14 losses have come since March 12th, six of them to be exact. The Flames, meanwhile, have been one of the league's best road teams, going 25-17 while outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.6 goals. Dallas checks in averaging just 2.5 goals per game while being outscored by 0.4 goals on average when coming off four or five wins in their last six games this season (35-game sample size), as is the case here. The Stars have also been outscored by 0.3 goals on average, allowing 3.4 goals per game when coming off a home win in which they scored 4+ goals over the last two seasons (26-game sample size), which is also the situation here. Take Calgary (3*).

NHL First Round Division Game of the Year. My selection is on New York over Pittsburgh at 7 pm et on Monday.

I don't feel that we've seen the Rangers best performance yet in this series. Sure, there was a 5-2 victory in Game 2 but even in that contest, it didn't seem like the Blueshirts were in complete control. Off a 7-4 drubbing on Saturday - a game that featured a furious second period rally from New York after falling behind 4-1 after the first - I look for the Rangers to bounce back in a big way on Monday. A stunningly poor performance from likely Vezina Trophy winner Igor Shesterkin highlighted Game 3 on Saturday. He was pulled early in that contest, a rare sight for sure. I certainly expect the world class goaltender to rebound with a much better performance here. Note that the Rangers check in 15-6 after losing two of their last three games this season, outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals on average in that situation. Better still, they're 7-1 after losing five or six of their last seven contests over the last two seasons, as is the case here, averaging 4.0 goals per game and outscoring the opposition by 1.5 goals on average in that spot. When seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent this season they've allowed an average of only 1.7 goals per game while averaging 3.8 themselves, going 9-1 along the way. The last 37 times we've seen the Penguins play on home ice when leading a playoff series they've been outscored by an average margin of 0.2 goals. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Calgary over Dallas at 9:30 pm et on Saturday.

Coming off a shutout loss in Game 2, I look for the Flames to regain their focus and answer back as the scene shifts to Dallas for Game 3 on Saturday. Shutout victories have been few and far between for the Stars in recent years. One thing is for certain though, they haven't performed well following up on those performances, noting that they check in 1-8 when coming off a shutout win over the last three seasons, outscored by an average margin of 1.1 goals in that situation. The Flames have been one of the best road teams in the league this season, going 25-16 while outscoring the opposition by 0.6 goals on average. The Stars average a less than impressive 2.9 goals overall this season but that average drops to 2.5 when coming off four or five wins in their last six contests (34-game sample size), as is the case here, outscored by 0.4 goals on average in that spot. Take Calgary (6*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Minnesota at 9:30 pm et on Friday.

We won with the Wild in Game 2 of this series on Wednesday but I won't hesitate to go the other way and back the Blues as the series shifts to St. Louis for Game 3 on Friday. The Wild desperately needed a win to even up this series in Game 2. Not surprisingly, the Blues came out flat after a shutout victory in Game 1. Here, I look for the Blues to ramp up again and ultimately prove to be too much for the Wild to handle. Minnesota continues to struggle to keep the puck out of its net. It acquired Marc-Andre Fleury to shore up its goaltending situation prior to the trade deadline but he's only been average at best - certainly not the savior some were expecting. Note that the Wild are allowing 3.2 goals per game on the road this season. When playing on the road off a home win over a division opponent over the last two seasons, as is the case here, they've allowed a whopping 4.7 goals per game, outscored by 2.4 goals on average while winning just once in nine games. The Blues on the other hand have allowed 6+ goals in a game on six previous occasions this season. Each time they've responded with a win in their next game, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 3.1 goals in that situation. Take St. Louis (8*).

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

The Penguins rallied to take the opener of this series in thrilling triple-overtime fashion on Tuesday so now it's up to the Rangers to answer back before the scene shifts to Pittsburgh for Game 3. I expect them to do just that in Game 2 on Thursday. Here, we'll note that the Pens are just 15-23 when playing on the road after scoring 3+ goals in consecutive games over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscored by 0.5 goals on average in that situation. The Rangers have hit a rough patch at a tough time but the good news is, they're 12-6 after losing four or five of their last six games over the last two seasons, which is the situation here, averaging 3.6 goals per game and outscoring the opposition by 1.1 goals on average in that spot. Bouncing back hasn't been a big issue for the Blueshirts in recent years as they're 30-16 when coming off a home loss over the last three seasons, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.0 goal along the way. Keep in mind, the Rangers had won three straight meetings in this series before the Penguins pulled out the win on Tuesday. Now it's New York's turn to gain an ounce of revenge. Take New York (9*).

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

Don't think for a second that the Oilers aren't still haunted by last year's first round four-game sweep at the hands of the Jets. Edmonton didn't get off to the start that it hoped for in this series, falling 4-3 to the Kings on Monday. I look for the Oilers to answer back on Wednesday, noting that they're still 28-14 on home ice this season, averaging 3.8 goals per game and outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.7 goals. The Kings on the other hand, check in a solid 24-18 on the road but have actually been outscored by an average margin of 0.1 goal per game. You could argue that Los Angeles was in a favorable spot in the opener of this series as it had dropped three consecutive meetings against the Oilers so motivation was sky-high. Now the shoe is on the other foot as Edmonton is playing with revenge, noting that it has gone a perfect 5-0 in that situation in this particular series going back to 2018. Take Edmonton (5*).

Central Division First Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Minnesota over St. Louis at 9:30 pm et on Wednesday.

The Wild got caught in the trap of thinking that home ice advantage alone would carry them in the opener of this series - after all, they did go an incredible 31-10 here in the 'State of Hockey' during the regular season. The Blues had other ideas, cruising to a 4-0 victory - their sixth consecutive win against the Wild. I look for Minnesota to answer back in Game 2 on Wednesday. Note that the Blues are just 6-14 when playing on the road after scoring 3+ goals in four consecutive games over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscored by 0.4 goals on average in that situation. The Wild meanwhile are a perfect 8-0 when coming off a home loss by 2+ goals this season, averaging 4.6 goals per game and outscoring opponents by 2.2 goals on average in that spot. While the Wild certainly went through a rough stretch from mid-February to mid-March, they did manage to turn it around down the stretch and despite the disappointment of that lopsided Game 1 defeat, not to mention the fact that St. Louis has owned this series this season, I don't expect them to roll over on home ice. Take Minnesota (10*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Toronto over Tampa Bay at 7:30 pm et on Monday.

We'll fade the two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Lightning in their playoff opener on Monday. The Leafs past playoff failures have been well-documented. While they certainly draw a tough opening round opponent in the Lightning, I do feel this is their best team in a number of years - one capable of making a deep playoff run. That's a story for another day, however. Here, I expect the Leafs to get this series off on the right foot, noting that the Lightning have shown some cracks in their armor this season, particularly down the stretch. Tampa Bay checks in having allowed 3.9 goals per game, outscored by an average margin of 0.6 goals, when playing on the road after winning six or seven of their last eight games this season (17-game sample size), as is the case here. The Leafs rested most of their stars but still notched a regular season-ending 5-2 win over the Bruins. That's notable as they've averaged 4.5 goals per game while outscoring opponents by 1.4 goals on average after scoring 5+ goals in their previous game this season (28-game sample size), which is the situation here. Also of note, Leafs goaltender Jack Campbell, who had an extended rough stretch during the regular season, bounced back to post a .941 save percentage over his last five starts with the Leafs going 4-1 in those games. Take Toronto (10*).

My selection is on Winnipeg over Seattle at 2 pm et on Sunday.

I'll keep it simple with my analysis of this odd regular season finale in Winnipeg - a make-up game from earlier in the season. The Kraken won their home finale in shutout fashion against San Jose. Now they hit the road one more time, where they've gone a woeful 11-29, outscored by 0.8 goals on average this season. The Jets have had a disappointing season but do check in 22-18 on home ice, where they've outscored opponents by 0.6 goals on average. They also enter this game with a chance to wrap up the season on a four-game winning streak, giving them something to feel good about heading to the golf course. Take Winnipeg (5*).

My selection is on Dallas over Anaheim at 8:35 pm et on Friday.

The Stars inexplicably let one slip away in an overtime loss against the lowly Coyotes two nights ago, on home ice no less. With the first Wild Card spot hanging in the balance (that position avoids a first round date with the Avalanche) I look for Dallas to bounce back on Friday night. The Stars remain a terrific home team on the season, having gone 26-14 while averaging 3.2 goals per game and outscoring opponents by 0.4 goals on average in the host role. The Ducks meanwhile are coming off a lopsided win in San Jose but remain a woeful 14-26 away from home this season, outscored by 0.7 goals on average along the way. Note that you would have to go all the way back to February 19th and 22nd to find the last time Anaheim managed to win consecutive games. Here, we'll also note that the Ducks are 8-33 when seeking revenge for consecutive losses against an opponent over the last two seasons, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 1.4 goals in that situation. Dallas on the other hand has averaged 3.8 goals per game and outscored opponents by 0.4 goals on average after losing four or five of its last six games this season (17-game sample size), which is the situation here. Take Dallas (5*).

My selection is on Buffalo over Chicago at 7:05 pm et on Friday.

I'm not sure you'll find a team less motivated across the league than the Blackhawks on Friday night. Chicago is at the end of yet another disappointing campaign but does enter Friday's season finale in Buffalo off consecutive wins. I don't need to tell you that a late April Friday trip to Buffalo likely has the 'Hawks thinking more about the golf course than proceedings on the ice. The Sabres meanwhile are off a shutout loss in Boston last night but had previously won four games in a row. They certainly played their best hockey down the stretch and check in 5-2 when coming off a loss by 4+ goals against a division opponent this season, as is the case here, and also 5-1 when following a loss by 5+ goals against any opponent over the same stretch. In the latter situation they've outscored opponents by an average margin of 1.6 goals. Chicago is just 3-12 when coming off two wins in its last three games this season, which is the situation here, outscored by 1.3 goals on average in that spot. Worse still, the 'Hawks check in 5-18 when coming off a game in which they scored 4+ goals this season, as is the case here. Take Buffalo (8*).

NHL Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Washington over New York at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Isles got the better of the Caps two nights ago in Washington, skating to a 4-1 win. While Washington's first round playoff matchup is set (it will face Florida), I do think the Caps have some motivation to snap their brief two-game skid before wrapping up the regular season against the Rangers tomorrow night. Here, we'll note that Washington is 28-11 after losing two of its last three games over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals in that situation. The Isles are just 9-16 after a win by 2+ goals this season, as is the case here, averaging just 2.5 goals and outscored by 0.4 goals on average in that spot. New York is just 13-23 when coming off a victory of any kind this season while the Caps are 25-14 on the road, outscoring opponents by 0.8 goals on average. Take Washington (10*).

My selection is on Winnipeg over Philadelphia at 7:35 pm et on Wednesday.

The Jets returned home from a brutal late season road trip to defeat the Avalanche 4-1 on Sunday. Despite the down season, they're actually 20-18 on home ice, where they've outscored opponents by 0.5 goals on average. The Flyers meanwhile, check in a woeful 11-29 on the road, having been outscored by an average margin of 1.3 goals. After a brief two-game winning streak that included a victory over the rival Penguins on Sunday, Philadelphia dropped a 3-1 decision in Chicago on Monday. Here, we'll note that the Flyers are a woeful 2-13 when playing their third game in four nights this season, outscored by 1.7 goals on average in that spot. The Flyers did take the first meeting between these two teams this season by a 3-1 score in Philadelphia on February 1st. Note that the Jets are 17-9 when seeking revenge for a road loss by 2+ goals over the last three seasons, averaging 3.5 goals per game and outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals on average in that situation. Take Winnipeg (5*).

My selection is on Dallas over Seattle at 8:05 pm et on Saturday.

It's really only at this point of the season that we tend to reach into this price range to back a moneyline in the NHL but in this particular case it's warranted. In fact, I believe the line could be even higher. The Kraken seemingly ran out of gas last night in Minnesota, jumping ahead 2-0 before falling by a 6-3 score. Now they're playing their third game in four nights, in three different cities, and quite simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. The Stars are back home after an 0-3 western Canadian road trip. Note that they're 24-13 on home ice this season and check in averaging 3.9 goals per game when coming off four or five losses in their last six games this season, as is the case here. The Kraken average only 2.6 goals per game on the road this season, where they've won just 11 of 38 games. Also note that the Stars are 33-20 when seeking revenge for a loss by 2+ goals against an opponent over the last three seasons, which is the situation here, outscoring the opposition by 0.3 goals on average in that spot. The Kraken skated to a 4-1 home win over the Stars on April 3rd but it's certainly worth noting that they caught the Stars in a favorable spot on that night as Dallas was playing the final leg of a four-game in six-night road trip - one in which it had won the first three games. It's a much different story here. Take Dallas (4*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Chicago at 10:35 pm et on Thursday.

While we're being asked to lay a heavy price to back the Kings here, I believe it could be even higher. Chicago checks in off an overtime win in Arizona last night. Of course, road wins have been hard to come by for the Blackhawks this season as they're just 14-24 away from home, where they've been outscored by an average margin of 0.7 goals. Worse still, when on the road off a win this season, they've allowed an average of 3.9 goals per contest and have been outscored by 1.0 goals on average. The Kings come into this game off consecutive wins and just skated to a 5-2 victory in Chicago back on April 12th. As their playoff push continues, look for the Kings to grab a much-needed two points on Thursday night. Take Los Angeles (4*).

NHL Non-Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Anaheim over Philadelphia at 7:35 pm et on Saturday.

The Flyers were in a favorable spot two nights ago in Columbus, seeking quick revenge in the back half of a home-and-home series against the Blue Jackets. It's a different story here, even if Philadelphia is once again in a 'revenge' spot. These two teams haven't squared off since back in the first week of January - not exactly a game that is fresh in either team's mind at the end of a long, trying season for both. The Ducks check into this game off an unsuccessful two-game homestand that saw them drop games to the Oilers and Flames. A step down in competition should help their cause here. Note that Anaheim has allowed just 2.0 goals per game, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.0 goal when coming off 16 or more losses in their last 20 games over the last two seasons (six-game sample size), as is the case here. The Flyers check in a woeful 4-18 when coming off a game against a divisional opponent this season, outscored by 1.7 goals on average in that spot. Worse still, they're winless at 0-6 when coming off a victory over a division foe, which is also the case here, outscored by an ugly 2.5-goal margin on average in that situation. Additionally, Philadelphia is 1-10 after giving up one goal or less in its previous game this season, outscored by an average margin of 2.0 goals in that spot. That strong defensive effort on Thursday was a recent anomaly for the Flyers given prior to that they had allowed 6, 5, 4, 6, 3 and 4 goals over their last six contests. For the Ducks, this might be the lone winnable game on their current road trip, which will continue with stops in Carolina, Florida and Tampa. Take Anaheim (10*).

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

The Hurricanes bring some positive momentum into Friday's matchup with the Islanders after rallying for a 5-3 win over the Sabres last night. That's notable as they've allowed just 1.9 goals per game and outscored opponents by an average of 1.5 goals when playing at home off a win over the last three seasons (42-game sample size). The Isles, meanwhile, have averaged a woeful 1.8 goals per game and have been outscored by 0.9 goals on average when playing on the road seeking revenge for a loss by 3+ goals against an opponent over the last three seasons (19-game sample size), which is the situation here as well. You would have to go back six meetings here in Carolina to find the last time the Islanders defeated the Hurricanes. Take Carolina (5*).

NHL Revenge Game of the Month. My selection is on the Rangers over the Islanders at 7:05 pm et on Friday.

The Islanders are playing some of their best hockey of the season right now but the fact is, it's too little, too late. The Rangers come in playing well also, winners of four games in a row, scoring 18 goals in the process. The Blueshirts will have revenge in mind here after they dropped a 2-1 decision at home against the Isles back on March 17th. Note that the Isles are just 7-14 when coming off a win by two or more goals this season, as is the case here, outscored by 0.5 goals on average in that situation. Meanwhile, the Rangers are 13-4 when coming off a game in which they allowed 4+ goals, outscoring the opposition by 1.0 goal on average in that spot. Take the Rangers (10*).

My selection is on Minnesota over Vancouver at 8:05 pm et on Thursday.

We'll fade the Canucks off last night's stunning 3-1 win in Colorado. Keep in mind, Vancouver is just one game removed from losing at home against Buffalo. There really wasn't anything special about the Canucks performance in Colorado last night. The Avs quite simply looked flat. Here, the Canucks are unlikely to benefit from such a lifeless opponent as the Wild are making up for lost time, winners of three games in a row, outscoring the opposition 10-3 along the way. Minnesota has been a terrific positive momentum play, having gone a perfect 9-0 when playing at home after allowing two goals or less in consecutive games this season, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 2.3 goals in that situation. The Wild check in an incredible 21-4 when playing at home off a home win over the last two seasons, averaging 4.0 goals and outscoring the opposition by 1.6 goals on average in that spot. The Canucks, meanwhile, are 3-17 when playing the second of back-to-backs over the last two seasons, allowing 4.3 goals on average and outscored by an average margin of 2.0 goals in that situation. Take Minnesota (6*).

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

The Rangers just came up with an impressive sweep in Tampa and Carolina, on back-to-back nights no less, but it's all for not if they can't complete the perfect road trip with a win in New Jersey on Tuesday. New York has to feel pretty good about itself after bolstering its roster with a number of savvy pre-trade deadline moves. I expect that confidence to manifest itself on the ice on Tuesday as the Rangers face the reeling Devils before enjoying a couple of days off and then hosting the Penguins on Friday. Note that New York checks in 7-1 after scoring two goals or less in consecutive games this season, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 1.5 goals on average in that situation. The Devils return home following a disastrous western Canadian road swing that saw them lose three consecutive games by identical 6-3 scores. Here, we'll note that New Jersey is a woeful 13-31 when playing at home after losing four or five of its last six games over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscored by 0.7 goals on average in that spot. Take New York (8*).

NHL Revenge Game of the Month. My selection is on Carolina over Washington at 7:05 pm et on Friday.

Both of these teams played last night with the Capitals defeating the Blue Jackets 7-2 and the Hurricanes falling by a 3-2 score in Toronto. That makes it consecutive losses for the Canes but I like their chances of bouncing back here, as they look to earn their first victory in three tries against the Caps this season. Note that Washington is just 6-12 when coming off a road win this season, allowing 3.5 goals per game and outscored by an average margin of 0.3 goals in that situation. Worse still, the Caps check in 3-9 when coming off consecutive games in which they scored 4+ goals this season, as is the case here, allowing 3.7 goals per game and outscored by 0.5 goals on average in that spot. The Canes, meanwhile, have allowed just 1.9 goals per game when playing at home after losing two of their last three games over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 0.8 goals on average in that situation (16-game sample size). Carolina has of course been terrific at home this season, going 23-6, outscoring opponents by 1.4 goals on average while allowing just 2.0 goals per game. Here, the Canes could benefit from facing struggling Caps goaltender Ilya Samsonov after Vitek Vanecek started the last three games, including last night's contest in Columbus. Samsonov owns an ugly .860 save percentage over his last four starts. Meanwhile, Canes backup Antti Raanta may get the start in this game. He's actually been their better goaltender lately, posting a terrific .945 save percentage over his last four starts with Carolina winning three of those contests. Take Carolina (10*).

My selection is on Ottawa over Arizona at 7:35 pm et on Monday.

The Coyotes have picked up four of a possible six points through their first three games on this road trip but I look for them to stumble on Monday in Ottawa. After scoring 22 goals over a three-game stretch, the 'Yotes were held to just two in Boston on Saturday. It's worth noting that Arizona hasn't lost consecutive games since February 11th and 19th. It has gone nine games without dropping two in a row - by far its longest such streak of the season. I see it ending here as the Sens stay home off a disappointing 6-3 loss against Chicago on Saturday. Given they entered that game off consecutive wins, I think they may have gotten ahead of themselves after building an early lead against the Blackhawks. I like the spot for the Sens here, noting that they've gone a perfect 5-0 when playing at home after allowing 6+ goals in their previous game over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 1.8 goals on average in that situation. They're also a solid 16-10 when playing at home off a loss by 2+ goals over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outsoring opponents by an average margin of 0.3 goals in that spot. The Coyotes check in averaging 2.6 goals per game this season but that number drops to 2.1 when coming off a loss. They've been outscored by 1.2 goals on average when following up a loss this season. To make matters worse for the 'Yotes, they'll be without one of their best players in defenseman Jacob Chychrun for an extended period of time due to a lower body injury. Take Ottawa (5*).

My selection is on New York over Anaheim at 7:35 pm et on Sunday.

The pressure is off and it shows. The Islanders are essentially out of playoff contention but check in playing some of their best hockey of the season, having won back-to-back and three of their last four games overall. The Ducks are at the opposite end of the spectrum, having lost six of their last eight games and in a tough back-to-back spot here after last night's 2-1 shootout loss against the Devils. Note that Anaheim is a woeful 1-18 the last 19 times it has sought revenge for a loss against an opponent by 3+ goals, as is the case here, outscored by 2.2 goals on average in that spot. Worse still, the Ducks are 0-10 when seeking revenge for a loss by 4+ goals against an opponent over the last two seasons, which is the case here after the Isles skated to a 4-0 win in Anaheim last month. New York checks in having allowed just 1.9 goals per game when playing at home for at least a fourth straight game this season (11-game sample size), outscoring opponents by 0.7 goals on average in that spot. While the Isles will turn to a red hot Ilya Sorokin in goal tonight. He has posted a terrific .961 save percentage over his last four starts with New York winning three of those games. Meanwhile, the Ducks will likely be forced to go with a struggling John Gibson after Anthony Stolarz started in last night's shootout loss in New Jersey. Gibson has recorded a .856 save percentage over his last four starts with the Ducks losing three of those four games. Finally, I'll point out that the Isles are as healthy as they've been all season, recently welcoming back both Mat Barzal and Zdeno Chara. Take New York (6*).

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

The Lightning certainly want to salvage something from their western Canadian road swing but so far, not so good as they fell by a 7-4 score in Winnipeg and 4-1 in Calgary. I do look for them to get back in the win column on Saturday as they head to Edmonton to face the Oilers. Here, we'll note that Tampa Bay has gone 17-3 after being held to one goal or less in its previous game over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 1.5 goals on average in that spot. The Lightning average 4.2 goals per game while outscoring opponents by 1.6 goals on average when coming off a road loss this season (10-game sample size). The Oilers are 15-12 on home ice this season but have actually been outscored by 0.2 goals on average here in Edmonton. They managed to snap a three-game losing streak with a 4-3 overtime win over Washington last time out but it's worth noting that they caught the Caps in a tough back-to-back spot, not to mention the fact that Washington started struggling goaltender Ilya Samsonov in that one. The Oilers have already announced that Mikko Koskinen will start in goal on Saturday. While that could be considered a positive as he's performed relatively well lately, the Lightning have had his number in two previous games against him, securing 6-3 and 5-2 wins. Things won't get any easier for Tampa Bay on this trip as it will head to Vancouver for a tough back-to-back and three-in-four spot tomorrow. I look for the Lightning to make the most of their opportunity to snap their mini-skid in Edmonton on Saturday. Take Tampa Bay (8*).

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

The Lightning are in a prime bounce-back spot here off a 7-4 loss in Winnipeg two nights ago. Note that Tampa Bay has gone 57-22 when coming off a loss over the last three seasons, outscoring opponents by 1.0 goal on average in that situation. Better still, the Bolts are 33-10 when coming off a loss by 2+ goals over the same time frame. We've seen Tampa Bay average 4.6 goals per game and outscore opponents by 2.2 goals on nine previous occasions in which they've come off a road loss this season. Even better, in five games in which they've played on the road after a loss by 3+ goals this season, as is the case here, they've averaged a ridiculous 6.4 goals and outscored the opposition by an average margin of 4.2 goals. The Flames took full advantage of a favorable schedule in February but have cooled off recently. Calgary lost only once from January 24th until February 21st (a 13-game stretch) but has now dropped three of its last seven games since, including a 5-4 loss here at home against Washington two nights ago. Note that the Flames have allowed 4.3 goals per game and have been outscored by 1.5 goals on average on six previous occasions when they've sought revenge for a loss against an opponent in which they scored one goal or less this season, as is the case here after they dropped a 4-1 decision back on January 6th in Tampa. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

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

The Wild are in desperate need of a spark right now, and fast as they have fallen all the way into a tie for third place in the Central Division just a few points above the first team out in the Western Conference playoff picture. I do look for Minnesota to bounce back on Tuesday as it looks to begin the turnaround following a 2-8 skid. Here, we'll note that the Wild are a perfect 8-0 after giving up 5+ goals in consecutive games over the last three seasons, outscoring opponents by 2.2 goals on average in that spot. They also check in 11-2 when coming off a home loss by 3+ goals over the same stretch, which is the case here, outscoring the opposition by 1.1 goals in that situation. The Rangers are riding a three-game winning streak including a 4-1 victory in Winnipeg on Sunday to open their current road trip. It's not as if they've been dominant on the road this season though, only outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.2 goals in 29 games. They check in averaging only 2.8 goals per contest away from home, compared to the Wild who put up 4.3 goals per game here at home this season. Here, we'll note that New York is a woeful 2-10 when on the road after scoring 3+ goals in three or more consecutive games over the last two seasons, as is the case here, averaging just 1.9 goals and outscored by 1.7 goals on average in that spot. Take Minnesota (8*).

NHL Western Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Nashville over Dallas at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Preds snapped out of a two-game skid with a resounding 8-0 win in San Jose on Saturday. It's all for not, however, if they can't follow it up with another victory back home against Dallas on Tuesday night. I look for them to accomplish that with Dallas checking in off consecutive wins to open this three-game road trip. Note that the Stars are still just 12-15 on the road this season, outscored by 0.6 goals on average along the way. I'll also point to the fact that the Stars are 0-5 when playing on the road off consecutive wins over division opponents over the last two seasons outscored by a whopping 2.2 goals on average in that situation. In the long-term picture, they're just 58-84 when coming off four or more consecutive wins, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Preds have been an excellent positive momentum play, going 8-1 when coming off a road win in which they scored 4+ goals this season, which is the case here, outscoring opponents by 1.2 goals on average in that spot. Take Nashville (10*).

My selection is on Colorado over New York at 7:35 pm et on Monday.

We won with the 'under' in the Islanders most recent game as they skated to a low-event 2-1 win over a suddenly struggling St. Louis squad on Saturday afternoon. Here, I won't hesitate to fade the Isles as they stay at home to host an Avs team that will undoubtedly be in an unforgiving mood after suffering rare consecutive losses. Note that Colorado has been held to just four goals over its last two games. That's happened over a two-game stretch only twice previously this season. In their next game they've gone 2-0, scoring nine goals in the process. I certainly anticipate Colorado bouncing back offensively here, noting that it will be facing Semyon Varlamov between the pipes for the Isles. The Isles have given up nine goals in Varlamov's last two starts and they've gone winless in his eight starts against non-conference opponents this season. Isles head coach Barry Trotz announced that there's still no timetable for Mat Barzal or Zdeno Chara's return, two key missing pieces. While it has picked up a few wins here and there over the last several weeks, there's no denying New York's season has been circling the drain for quite some time. Look for Colorado to get back in the win column on Monday. Take Colorado (5*).

NHL Central Division Game of the Year. My selection is on Minnesota over Dallas at 4:05 pm et on Sunday.

We missed with the Wild on Friday as they fell in stunning fashion on the road against the lowly Sabres. I do expect them to bounce back on Sunday, however, as they return home to host the Stars. Dallas is coming off an overtime win in Winnipeg on Friday. That sets the Stars up poorly here, noting that they've gone 3-10 when playing on the road off a win over a division opponent over the last two seasons, outscored by 1.1 goals on average in that spot. They're also just 2-9 after winning five or six of their last seven games over the same stretch, as is the case here, outscored by 2.0 goals on average in that situation. The Wild have been inexplicably struggling for weeks but they're well-positioned to bounce back here. Minnesota checks in 13-2 after allowing 4+ goals in consecutive games over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.2 goals in that spot. The Wild are also a terrific 14-3 when coming off five or six losses over their last seven games over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.3 goals along the way. You would have to go back four meetings here in Minnesota to find the last time the Stars skated to a win here. Take Minnesota (10*).

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

The Flames check in off a loss to the Canadiens two nights ago. Losses have been few and far between for Calgary lately. In fact, the Flames haven't dropped consecutive games over their last 19 contests. I expect them to here, however. Colorado is coming off a disappointing 2-1 loss on the road against the lowly Coyotes. It wasn't for lack of trying as the Avs fired more than 40 shots on goal in that game. I certainly expect them to bounce back here, noting that they've gone 23-5 on home ice this season, outscoring opponents by 1.6 goals on average. While the Flames have given up a whopping 16 goals over their last four games, the Avs come in having allowed only 12 goals over their last five contests. Here, we'll note that Colorado is an incredible 16-1 when playing at home after winning five or six of its last seven games this season, outscoring opponents by 1.8 goals on average in that situation. Take Colorado (6*).

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

The Canucks enter this game off a solid 4-3 win over the Islanders two nights ago and have won two of the first three games on their current eastern road swing. Meanwhile, the Leafs are coming off a very ugly 5-1 loss to the Sabres on home ice. I don't expect Toronto will have any difficulty getting up for this bounce-back game against a Canucks squad they just dropped a 3-2 decision against in Vancouver back on February 12th. Note that Toronto is an incredible 17-3 when at home seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent over the last two seasons, allowing just 1.7 goals per game and outscoring the opposition by 1.2 goals on average in that situation. When seeking revenge for a one-goal loss against an opponent this season the Leafs have given up only 1.3 goals on average, outscoring the opposition by 1.5 goals on average (six-game sample size). Meanwhile, the Canucks are a woeful 11-27 when coming off a road win over the last three seasons, outscored by 0.9 goals on average in that spot and even worse, they're just 3-13 when following up a road win in which they scored 4+ goals over the last two seasons, allowing 3.9 goals on average while being outscored by 1.7 goals in that situation. Take Toronto (5*).

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

The Rangers have taken seven straight meetings against the Devils and I don't believe this is the spot where New Jersey finally turns the tide. New York still has losses against Pittsburgh and Vancouver fresh in its mind despite an impressive win over St. Louis on Wednesday. This is obviously a key spot for the Blueshirts before they head out on a four-game road trip. Here, they're in one of their more favorable spots, having held opponents to just 1.6 goals per game, outscoring them by an average margin of 1.3 goals when playing at home off a home win this season (eight-game sample size). Better still, New York is 10-1 this season, averaging 3.6 goals per game and outscoring opponents by 1.1 goals on average, when coming off consecutive games in which it allowed 3+ goals, as is the case here. New Jersey, meanwhile, is a woeful 11-32 when coming off two losses in its last three games over the last two seasons, allowing 3.7 goals on average in that spot. Take New York (8*).

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

Believe it or not, this is a revenge spot for the Wild after they stunningly dropped a 3-2 decision at home against the Sabres as a -320 home favorite back in mid-December. Minnesota certainly isn't playing its best hockey right now but it is coming off a come-from-behind win in Philadelphia last night - the type of win that can build some positive vibes for a team. Note that the Wild have failed to register consecutive wins over an eight-game stretch currently - their longest such stretch of the season. I expect it to end here. Note that Minnesota is 7-1 after losing five or six of its last seven games over the last two seasons, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 1.2 goals on average in that spot. Better still, they're an incredible 13-1 after giving up 4+ goals in consecutive games over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.3 goals while averaging 3.9 goals per game in that situation. As for the Sabres, they've gone 0-6 when returning home off consecutive road games this season, outscored by an average margin of 1.1 goals in that spot. Take Minnesota (5*).

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

We've had a good handle on games involving the Stars lately, going six-for-six with our last six plays. Here, I like the spot for the Stars as they look to make the most of this two-game homestand (they won the opener 4-2 over Buffalo) before heading out on the road for seven of their next eight games. Note that Dallas has been terrific on home ice this season, going 19-8, outscoring opponents by 0.7 goals on average. Also note that the Stars are a perfect 6-0 when at home seeking revenge for a loss where their opponent scored 4+ goals this season, as is the case here following a 4-0 loss in Los Angeles back in early December. They've averaged 4.7 goals per game and outscored opponents by an average margin of 1.7 goals in that situation. The Kings check in off an ugly 7-0 loss to the Bruins at home on Monday. That's the type of defeat that can linger a bit, especially given the fact it snapped the Kings five-game winning streak. Los Angeles is a solid 15-11 on the road this season but the margins have been slim as it has only outscored opponents by an average margin of 0.1 goals. While Jake Oettinger has been terrific between the pipes for Dallas lately, recording a .935 save percentage over his last four games, the Kings duo of Petersen and Quick has struggled. Petersen has posted a .892 save percentage over his last four games while Quick has recorded a .871 save percentage over his last four. Take Dallas (7*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Chicago at 3:05 pm et on Sunday.

Both of these teams are coming off victories on Friday night but I believe the Blues are better-positioned to win again on Sunday as they look to win three out of four against the Blackhawks this season, and seven of the last eight in this series. The Blackhawks are in a tough spot here, noting that they're a woeful 2-11 when playing at home off a home win in which they scored 4+ goals over the last three seasons, outscored by an average margin of 1.2 goals in that situation. They're just 3-17 when coming off a win by 2+ goals over the last two seasons, as is the case here, outscored by 1.4 goals on average in that spot. Keep in mind, Chicago is just 9-17 on home ice this season where it averages only 2.5 goals per contest. While St. Louis has only managed to go an even 12-12 on the road, it has averaged 3.3 goals per game and has outscored the opposition by an average margin of 0.3 goals away from home. When healthy, which it is for the most part right now, I would match up St. Louis with most of the better teams in the league talent-wise. Take St. Louis (6*).

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

The Senators have faced an extremely tough schedule in recent weeks, largely due to a number of Covid-related postponements earlier in the season. Here, they'll play on one day of rest once again, hosting a Wild squad that just 'got right' with a blowout win in Edmonton on Sunday. In this spot, we'll note that Minnesota has gone 23-10 when coming off two losses in its last three games over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 0.7 goals on average. Better still, the Wild are 22-8 after giving up 3+ goals in three straight games over the last three seasons, outscoring opponents by 0.8 goals on average in that situation. As for the Sens, they've averaged just 2.0 goals per game and have been outscored by an average margin of 1.4 goals when playing at home off a one-goal loss over the last two seasons (22-game sample size), as is the case here. While Ottawa averages only 2.5 goals per game at home this season, the Wild check in averaging 3.4 goals per contest on the road and better still, averaging 4.0 goals per game when coming off a win. Take Minnesota (5*).

NHL Non-Division Game of the Week. My selection is on New York over Ottawa at 5:05 pm et on Sunday.

We won fading the Senators last night, although it was a little closer than we would have liked as the Bruins pulled out a 3-2 overtime win. I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play on Sunday, this time supporting the Rangers, who are off a home shootout loss against the Red Wings. After today's game, New York will enjoy three days off before taking the ice again on Thursday against Washington. Here, we'll note that the Blueshirts have allowed just 2.2 goals per game and outscored the opposition by 0.7 goals on average when playing on the road off a home loss over the last two seasons, as is the case here (18-game sample size). Meanwhile, the Sens average a woeful 1.3 goals per game and have been outscored by an average margin of 1.7 goals when playing at home off an overtime loss over the last two seasons (nine-game sample size). Ottawa has dealt with a tough schedule recently due to the NHL trying to fit all of its games in following a slew of cancellations earlier in the season. That's notable as the Sens have given up 3.7 goals per game, outscored by 1.4 goals on average, when playing at home in a 6-in-10 or worse situation over the last two seasons. Take New York (10*).

NHL Atlantic Division Game of the Year. My selection is on Boston over Ottawa at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Bruins have won just once in their last five games with that victory coming against the same Senators they'll face on Saturday night. While Boston has dealt with a number of key absences recently, most notably Brad Marchand (who remains suspended) and Patrice Bergeron (who recently returned), the Senators are no strangers to that as they continue to play on without stud defenseman Thomas Chabot and one of their top offensive threats in Drake Batherson (among others). Nevertheless, the Sens are coming off a 3-1 win in Buffalo, which actually puts them in a difficult spot here, noting that they've gone 0-10 when playing at home off a win by two goals or more against a division opponent over the last three seasons, outscored by 1.8 goals on average in that spot. Also note that the Sens average a miserable 1.6 goals per game when playing at home after winning two of their last three games this season, which is also the case here, outscored by 0.5 goals on average in that situation. Meanwhile, the Bruins are 13-1 when coming off consecutive losses over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.3 goals in that spot. The B's have also outscored opponents by 0.9 goals when coming off a loss by 3+ goals this season (10-game sample size). Take Boston (10*).

My selection is on Minnesota over Winnipeg at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday.

The Wild have undoubtedly had this one circled on their calendar since dropping an ugly 2-0 decision here in Winnipeg last week. That was as lifeless of a performance as you'll see from Minnesota as it was perhaps caught looking past a one-game trip to Winnipeg coming out of the All-Star break. Since then, we've actually cashed with the Wild in consecutive games against the Hurricanes and Red Wings. We still haven't seen a complete performance from the Wild since the break, however, noting that they were outshot in both of those victories. The Jets desperately need all the points they can get right now but were handed a disappointing 3-1 loss at home against the Blackhawks on Monday. That was precisely the type of winnable game they couldn't afford to lose and now comes a much tougher matchup against a revenge-minded Wild squad. Note that the Jets have been held to three goals or less in 13 of their last 15 games. By contrast, the Wild have scored three or more in 14 of their last 15 contests. On the flip side, the Wild have given up 2.8 goals per game on the road this season, identical to that of the Jets here at home. Note that Winnipeg is a miserable 1-5 when playing a fourth game in seven days this season, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 1.3 goals in that situation. Take Minnesota (8*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Ottawa at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

We won with the Blues in Saturday's lopsided 5-1 victory over the Blackhawks and I won't hesitate to go back to the well with them again on Tuesday as they open a four-game road trip in Ottawa. For St. Louis, the win over the Blackhawks was its first in its last three games. It certainly won't want to cough up that positive momentum on Tuesday night. It catches Ottawa at the right time as the Sens are coming off a 4-1 win in Washington on Sunday but could be without a number of key contributors for Tuesday's game, including stud defenseman Thomas Chabot, who suffered an undisclosed injury in Sunday's contest. It's been a long haul for the banged-up Sens lately as this will be their sixth game in the last nine nights. Note that they've averaged just 2.0 goals per game and have been outscored by an average margin of 0.8 goals when playing their fourth game in seven nights this season, which is the case here. Meanwhile, the Blues have been a nice positive momentum play, allowing just 1.4 goals while outscoring the opposition by 1.2 goals on average when coming off a win by four goals or more this season (five-game sample size). Take St. Louis (8*).

NHL Central Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Winnipeg over Chicago at 9:05 pm et on Monday.

The Jets have now collected at least a point in all three games since the All-Star break, with their lone loss coming by way of overtime in Dallas on Friday (we won with the Stars in that game). While a letdown could certainly be in order against the lowly Blackhawks here, it's not something the Jets can afford as they need all the points they can get to continue to gain ground in a crowded Western Conference playoff race. Winnipeg sits seven points back of the Ducks for the second Wild Card spot in the West, but does have four games in hand, with one of those coming tonight. The Blackhawks looked lifeless in Saturday's 5-1 loss in St. Louis (we won with the Blues), managing only 16 shots on goal in a lopsided 5-1 loss. Chicago is now a miserable 3-14 in division games this season, outscored by an average margin of 1.9 goals. The Blackhawks check in allowing 3.4 goals per game on the road this season where they've been outscored by an average margin of 0.7 goals. While the Jets offense has taken off over the last couple of games, they also continue to receive tremendous goaltending from Connor Hellebuyck as he has posted a .940 save percentage over his last four games. Take Winnipeg (10*).

My selection is on Colorado over Dallas at 2:05 pm et on Sunday.

The Stars handed the Avalanche one of their eight regulation time losses in their lone previous meeting this season. That came back in late November and was by no means an ideal spot for Colorado as it was on one of those difficult one-game trips to get up for on the heels of six consecutive wins by two goals or more. On the flip side, the Stars were coming off two days off and wrapping up a three-game homestand. The Stars are once again wrapping up a homestand here, but I believe they're the ones that are in for the letdown this time around. We actually won with Dallas in its 4-3 overtime win over Winnipeg on Friday. The Stars are 3-2 on their current homestand but three of those games were virtual dead heats and in another they were drilled 5-0 by the Capitals. When healthy, there's a considerable gap between the Avalanche and the rest of the league in my opinion - certainly in the Western Conference. Here, Colorado will welcome back Nathan MacKinnon and I'm convinced he's ready to return, otherwise it likely would have taken a more cautious route and brought him back for its next game, at home against these same Stars on Tuesday. Note that the Avs have allowed just 2.2 goals per game and outscored opponents by 0.7 goals on average when playing on the road seeking revenge for a road loss by two goals or more over the last two seasons, as is the case here (13-game sample size). Take Colorado (8*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Chicago at 8:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Blues enter Saturday's game against Chicago on the heels of two straight losses - the first time they've dropped consecutive games since December 2nd and 4th. They haven't lost three in a row since a four-game losing streak back in the second week of November. I look for them to bounce back here as they host the Blackhawks on Saturday night. Chicago delivered a 4-1 win in Edmonton in its first game coming out of the All-Star break but remains just 2-7 over its last nine contests. Note that the Blackhawks are averaging just 2.6 goals per game on the road this season while St. Louis averages an impressive 3.8 goals per contest at home. Better still, the Blues average 4.7 goals per game when playing at home after losing two of their last three games this season, as is the case here, outscoring the opposition by 1.1 goals on average in that spot. Take St. Louis (7*).

NHL Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Anaheim over Seattle at 10:05 pm et on Friday.

It's been a long layoff for the Ducks, having not played since January 31st when they suffered a 2-1 loss in Detroit. By contrast, Seattle will be playing its fourth game since February 1st. The Kraken have not surprisingly been highly inconsistent in their inaugural campaign. One thing that has been consistent, however, is their performance on the road, where they've gone 6-15, averaging just 2.5 goals per game while being outscored by 0.7 goals on average. They've already lost both previous meetings against the Ducks, including a 4-1 defeat here in Anaheim. While the Ducks are just 13-11 on home ice, they've generally played well here, averaging 3.1 goals per game while outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.7 goals. While Anaheim currently holds down the final playoff spot in the Western Conference, it needs to take advantage of games like this as it sits just five points ahead of the Stars, who currently have four games in hand. Picking up two points is paramount here as due to a quirky NHL schedule, the Ducks won't play again until next Wednesday, when they open a four-game western Canada road trip in Calgary. Take Anaheim (10*).

My selection is on Dallas over Winnipeg at 8:35 pm et on Friday.

The Jets returned from the break with a stunning 2-0 victory over the Minnesota Wild on home ice on Tuesday. That victory had more to do with a sluggish effort from the Wild than anything else. Things should be much tougher for the Jets on Friday as they head to Dallas to face a healthy Stars squad that is well positioned to go on a second half run. Dallas posted a 4-3 win over Nashville two nights ago, improving to 16-7 on home ice this season. The Stars have averaged an impressive 3.6 goals per game here in Dallas, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.9 goals. The Jets on the other hand, are without a number of key contributors, most notably Pierre-Luc Dubois, who was added to the Covid list coming out of the break. Keep in mind, this is a Jets squad that averages a woeful 2.5 goals per game on the road, where it has been outscored by 0.7 goals on average. We actually won with Winnipeg in the first meeting between these two teams this season, but that was on home ice. The Jets haven't tasted victory here in Dallas since way back in February of 2018. Take Dallas (8*).

NHL Revenge Game of the Month. My selection is on Calgary over Vegas at 9:35 pm et on Wednesday.

The Flames have dropped four straight meetings with the Golden Knights, including a 3-2 loss in Las Vegas earlier this season. I look for them to snap that series skid on Wednesday night. The Flames come out of the break riding a three-game winning streak. Of course, the Knights have also won three games in a row following last night's 4-0 drubbing of the Oilers in Edmonton. I'm high on Calgary heading down the stretch, noting that it sits seven points back of the first-place Knights in the Pacific Division but has five games in hand. There's certainly a path for Calgary to move up at least a spot or two in the division pecking order and it starts with taking two points against the division-leading Knights on Wednesday. Calgary is just 7-8 on home ice this season yet has managed to outscore opponents by an average margin of 0.7 goals, allowing just 2.2 goals per contest here at the Saddledome. Here, we'll note that the Knights have allowed 3.7 goals per game when coming off consecutive wins this season (14-game sample size), as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Flames have been at their best when well-rested in recent years, averaging 4.1 goals per game and outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals on average when playing for the third time (or less) in a 10-day span over the last three seasons, which is also the situation here. Take Calgary (10*).

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

The Stars waxed the Bruins by a 6-1 score on Sunday, catching Boston in a favorable situation as the B's were in the second of back-to-backs while Dallas was playing just its second game in five days - both at home. Here, I expect the Stars to face a much stiffer challenge as the Flames come in winners of four of their last six games. Calgary has arguably been a better team on the road than at home this season, even if it hasn't showed it in its last couple of road tilts. The Flames are 14-11 away afrom home this season where they've outscored opponents by an average margin of 0.8 goals. Dallas checks in sporting a terrific 15-6 home record but is just one game removed from a 5-0 loss here at home against the Capitals. Note that Dallas has averaged just 2.1 goals and been outscored by an average margin of 0.7 goals after winning five or six of its last seven games this season (eight-game sample size). The Stars did take the first meeting in this series by a 4-3 score in Calgary back in early November. The Flames may have been caught looking past Dallas in that spot as the Stars had dropped four games in a row heading in while Calgary had reeled off six wins in its last seven contests. Home ice has meant little in this series with the road team winning each of the lat five meetings (excluding their playoff series in the 'bubble' in Edmonton in 2020). Take Calgary (8*).

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

This will be the second meeting between these two teams in the last two weeks with the Canucks skating to a 3-1 win here in Nashville back on January 18th. The Preds were in a tough spot on that night, playing the second of back-to-backs off a loss in St. Louis the previous night - their third straight loss at the time. Here, the Preds are well-rested and playing better hockey, winners of three of their last four despite falling by a 3-2 score in Edmonton last time out. Nashville checks in 13-7 on home ice this season, outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals on average. Vancouver is coming off a 3-1 win in Chicago last night but is still just 12-14 on the road, where it averages only 2.7 goals per contest. The Canucks average just 2.1 goals per game when playing on the road after winning two of their last three games over the last two seasons (24-game sample size) and worse still, average 1.9 goals per game off a win by two goals or more this season (nine-game sample size). Nashville has averaged 3.6 goals while outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.8 goals when coming off a loss this season (17-game sample size). Take Nashville (5*).

My selection is on New York over Seattle at 1:05 pm et on Sunday.

The Rangers could easily overlook the Kraken but I don't see that happening here as they come off consecutive discouraging losses on Thursday and Friday. They blew 2-0 leads in both of those games, failing to pick up a single point along the way. They'll need to make the most of this winnable game as they face a tough stretch with three games against the Panthers and Capitals at home and the Penguins on the road. Note that New York is still 13-6 on home ice this season, outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals on average. The Kraken on the other hand, despite posting an overtime win at Pittsburgh last time out, are still just 5-13 on the road, where they've been outscored by an average margin of 0.9 goals. Keep in mind, the Rangers already skated to a 3-1 win in Seattle earlier this season. Also note that New York is 9-1 after giving up three goals or more in consecutive games this season, outscoring opponents by 1.1 goals on average in that situation. Take New York (6*).

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

The Flames enjoyed tremendous success earlier this week, scoring 13 goals and firing over 100 shots on goal over a two-game stretch against St. Louis and Columbus, winning those two games by a combined 13-1 score. Their success was short-lived, however, as they fell by a 5-1 score in St. Louis on Thursday. Those wins earlier in the week are all for not if they can't quickly right the ship here against Vancouver on Saturday. I'm confident they'll do just that. While Calgary is just 6-8 at home this season, it has actually outscored opponents by an average margin of 0.7 goals. I like the setup here as the Flames host a Canucks squad coming off a blowout win over the reeling Jets in Winnipeg on Thursday. Note that the Canucks average just 2.1 goals when coming off a win by two goals or more this season (eight-game sample size). You would have to go back three meetings here in Calgary to find the last time the Canucks defeated the Flames, with the latter taking five of the last seven matchups at the Saddledome. Take Calgary (5*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Winnipeg at 3:05 pm et on Saturday.

Defensive warts notwithstanding, the Blues continue to roll along, winners of seven of their last nine games and this serves as a key game on Saturday as they won't play again until February 10th. They're certainly catching the Jets at the right time as Winnipeg has lost six games in a row and doesn't appear poised to turn things around anytime soon, severely missing Nik Ehlers and Josh Morrissey, among others. The Jets did take the most recent meeting between these two teams by a 4-2 score in Winnipeg back on December 19th. That serves the Blues well here, noting that they've gone an exceptional 8-1 when seeking revenge for a loss in which their opponent scored four or more goals this season, outscoring opponents by a wide average margin of 2.1 goals in that situation. We'll keep our fingers crossed that St. Louis goes with the red hot Ville Husso in goal for this one but even if Jordan Binnington gets the nod, I'm not convinced the Jets can take full advantage. Take St. Louis (6*).

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

We're being asked to lay a steep price with the Hurricanes in this one but I believe the price should be considerably higher. The Senators are fresh off a 5-0 shutout win over the Sabres two nights ago. That victory had more to do with Buffalo's short-comings than anything else. Here, we'll note that the Sens are 0-9 in their last nine home games following a win by two goals or more against a division opponent, as is the case here, outscored by an average margin of 1.9 goals. The Hurricanes posted a 4-3 overtime win over the Golden Knights two nights ago. They've won four of their last five games, scoring at least four goals in all five contests. Note that the Canes are an incredible 14-2 in their last 16 games following a one-goal victory on home ice. Keep in mind, while the Sens are just 6-10 on home ice, the Canes are 14-6 on the road, allowing just 2.4 goals per game and outscoring opponents by 1.0 goal on average. Somewhat surprisingly, this is a revenge spot for the Canes after they dominated the first meeting between these two teams this season (they outshot the Sens 49-20) but ended up dropping a 3-2 decision. Take Carolina (5*).

My selection is on Washington over San Jose at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday.

I like the spot for the Capitals here, noting that they're 11-1 in their last 12 home games following a home loss, outscoring opponents by 1.3 goals on average in that situation. They'll likely catch James Reimer in goal for the Sharks in this one with backup Adin Hill sidelined due to injury. To say that Reimer has been struggling would be an understatement. He has posted a .832 save percentage over his last four games and will be up against a Caps squad that should be in a foul mood after getting shut out in a 1-0 loss to the Knights on Monday. The Caps took the first meeting between these two teams by a 4-0 score in San Jose back in November. You would have to go back five matchups in this series to find the last time the Sharks prevailed, all the way to January of 2019. Take Washington (5*).

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

The Senators battled hard but ultimately lost their third game in a row, dropping a 3-2 overtime decision (after leading 2-0) in Washington last night. Here, I look for the Blue Jackets to bounce back from Friday's 5-2 loss to the Penguins and add to the Sens misery. Ottawa is now 6-13 on the road this season where it is giving up 3.7 goals per game. The Jackets figure to be able to take advantage, noting that they average 3.4 goals per contest on home ice. You would have to go back six meetings here in Columbus to find the last time the Sens skated to a win over the Jackets in enemy territory, all the way back in 2017. Here, we'll note that Ottawa is a miserable 1-16 the last 17 times it has played its third game in four days, outscored by an average margin of 2.4 goals in that spot. When on the road playing their third game in five days, the Sens have gone 9-36 over the last three seasons, outscored by 1.8 goals on average. Take Columbus (8*).

NHL Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Philadelphia over Buffalo at 1:05 pm et on Saturday.

We missed with the Flyers in their last game as they outshot the Blue Jackets but fell by a 2-1 score - their 10th consecutive defeat. I do think the losing streak ends today, however, as they head to Buffalo to face the Sabres, having won each of their last five trips here. Note that the Flyers have avoided an 11th straight losses each of the last four times that situation has come up, going a perfect 4-0 the last four times they've suffered 10 consecutive defeats - outscoring opponents by 1.5 goals on average in that situation. They're also a stellar 8-1 when playing on the road off consecutive division losses over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals on average in that spot. Finally, I'll also point out that Philadelphia has gone 7-2 when playing on the road after scoring one goal or less in its last game over the last two seasons, also outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.9 goals in that situation. The Sabres are in tough right now, forced to go with Aaron Dell in goal on a nightly basis. He owns an ugly .893 record with Buffalo losing seven of his eight starts this season. Going back over the last two games, he gave up a whopping eight goals in just four periods (plus a few minutes of overtime). Take Philadelphia (10*).

NHL Game of the Week. My selection is on Washington over Winnipeg at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Capitals are coming off a 4-2 loss at home against the Canucks on Sunday. There was no real shame in that loss. They simply ran into a hot goaltender in Thatcher Demko and ultimately fell just short. I expect Washington to play with a sense of urgency on Tuesday, however, noting that it has now lost five of its last six games and has a tough game in Boston on deck on Thursday. While the Caps are just 10-10 on home ice this season, they've actually outscored opponents by an average margin of 0.5 goals so there's been some bad luck along the way. Here, we'll note that the Caps average an impressive 3.5 goals and outscore opponents by 0.5 goals on average when playing at home after losing two of their last three games over the last three seasons (23-game sample size). The Jets last took the ice on January 13th, skating to a 3-0 win in Detroit. Here, we'll note that they're a woeful 0-7 when seeking revenge for a loss where their opponent scored five goals or more, as is the case here after Washington won 5-2 in Winnipeg earlier this season, outscored by an average margin of 2.5 goals in that situation. Speaking of this series, we'll note that the Jets haven't won a game in Washington since way back in 2013. Considering they're just 7-10 on the road this season, where they've been outscored by 0.7 goals on average, I'm comfortable fading the Jets at a reasonable price here. Take Washington (10*).

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

The Sabres are coming off a big upset win in Nashville on Thursday but I don't expect them to make it two wins in a row on Saturday in Detroit. The Red Wings are reeling right now, losers of four straight games. They are getting healthier, however, and I see this as an ideal 'get right' spot in the front half of a home-and-home with Buffalo. Note that the Sabres are just 11-42 when revenging a loss against an opponent over the last two seasons, outscored by an average margin of 2.2 goals in that spot. That's the situation here after the Wings skated to a 3-2 win on November 27th. Detroit, despite its struggles over the last couple of years has actually gone 10-4 when playing at home off a loss by two goals or more over the last two seasons, allowing just 2.3 goals and outscoring opponents by 0.6 goals on average. The Wings also average 3.3 goals and are 8-4 when playing at home off consecutive losses over the same time frame. Take Detroit (6*).

My selection is on Carolina over Vancouver at 1:05 pm et on Saturday.

This is a dream bounce-back spot for the Hurricanes as they look to erase the memory of Thursdays' stunning 6-0 loss at the hands of the Blue Jackets. The Canucks are in the middle of a long road trip that will take them all over the map. Right now they're stuck in the NHL's version of the 'Bermuda Triangle' as they wrap up three games at Florida, Tampa Bay and now Carolina. The Flames went 0-3 during the same jaunt last week and I expect the Canucks to suffer the same fate here after falling 5-2 against the Panthers and 4-2 at the hands of the Lightning. Despite dropping their last two games on home ice, the Canes are still 11-5 in Raleigh this season, averaging 3.6 goals per game and outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.2 goals. The Canucks on the other hand are just 8-12 on the road where they've allowed 3.3 goals on average. Here, we'll note that Vancouver is an awful 4-18, outscored by an average margin of 1.8 goals when coming off a road loss by two goals or more over the last two seasons, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Canes have allowed just 1.7 goals on average, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.7 goals when playing at home off two losses in their last three games over the last two seasons (11-game sample size). Take Carolina (5*).

NHL Western Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Minnesota over Anaheim at 8:05 pm et on Friday.

The Wild recently lost five games in a row but rebounded from that stretch with consecutive wins over the Bruins and Capitals prior to a five-day break. Now they get this Friday night home game against the reeling Ducks - a team they've absolutely owned in recent years - before heading out on the road for two games at the start of next week. I look for Minnesota to take full advantage of this favorable spot. You would have to go back 10 meetings to January of last year to find the last time the Ducks defeated the Wild. Even that win was somewhat fortunate as they prevailed by a 1-0 score on home ice. They haven't won a game here in Minnesota in over two years. It's not as if Anaheim enters this game playing its best either. The Ducks have only home wins over the Flyers and Red Wings (that win came in a shootout - we won with Anaheim on that night) over their last eight games. They're just 7-10 on the road this season where they average 2.8 goals per game. That's a far cry from Minnesota's 11-4 home record and 4.3 goals per game. While the Wild are likely to be without goaltender Cam Talbot once again on Friday, that's not necessarily a bad thing. Backup Kaapo Kahkonen has played well in his absence, most recently helping the Wild to those consecutive wins over the Bruins and Caps, allowing only four goals on 69 shots along the way. While Minnesota is still missing a number of players due to illness or injury, it is expected to have Kirill Kaprizov back in the lineup for Friday's game, giving its offense a much-needed boost. Here, we'll note that the Wild are a perfect 5-0 the last five times they've come off five or six losses in their last seven games, as is the case here, outscoring opponents by 1.8 goals on average in that spot. The Wild are also 23-7 in their last 30 home games following a win, outscoring opponents by 1.2 goals on average in that situation. Take Minnesota (10*).