Sports Wagers NHL Tracking

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

New Jersey –110 over CAROLINA  -220

The Devils keep lining our pockets with cash and there’s no reason to stop here. The Devils would be a legit contender this season with better goaltending but that’s something we’ll have to live with for now. What we do know is that after last season’s debacle, this year’s Devils are hungrier than ever. They’ve won seven of nine and they don’t get outplayed, even when losing. The Hurricanes are a bottom feeder and they’ll remain there until major changes occur. Carolina’s best player, Eric Staal, appears disinterested and when the captain doesn’t give 100%, it cascades down to all. Joel Skinner, the team’s leading point producer remains out. The Canes have lost 11 of their last 14 and five in a row to these Devils. Cheap price. Play: New Jersey –110 (Risking 2.2 units to win 2).

ST. LOUIS -½ -108 over Dallas  +200

The Dallas Stars are seven games above .500 but that can be misleading. They’ve been fortunate to outscore a few teams recently but that cannot last because they don’t have the firepower to maintain such a pace. What’s more notable is the number of chances they’re allowing and the number of goals they’ve allowed. Dallas has given up 18 goals against in its past five games and three or more in four straight. That’s a big concern for Dallas backers here because the Blues rarely allow more than two a game. They Blues have the NHL’s best home record with 13 wins in 17 games. The Blue Notes just keep winning and their confidence is sky high, especially in this building. Play: St. Louis -½ -108 (Risking 2.16 units to win 2).

CHICAGO –1½ +125 over Columbus  +250

For the first time this season we’re going to step out and lay 1½-pucks because the Jackets are a complete and utter mess. Before the break and having the least amount of wins and points in the league, the Jackets went into Nashville. The Predators took an early five-minute major and Columbus scored four times to take a 4-1 lead. But Columbus managed to lose that one in OT and skated off with their heads down and with a ho-hum attitude. They’ve allowed six goals against in two straight and six goals against in three of its last four road games. They’ve lost 44 of their past 56 games overall. They have no goaltending and what’s even more amazing is that six coaches have been fired this year and none of them are named Scott Arniel. Now they’ll skate into Chicago to play the league’s deadliest snipers. Chicago has played Columbus twice this year and won by scores of 6-3 and 5-2. That was in late October and early November when the Jackets were in a better state of mind. It's not January yet and this Columbus group has no shot of making the playoffs and no light at the end of its misery tunnel. The Blackhawks have a history of blowing this intruder out and this one could be the most decisive of all. Play: Chicago -1½ +125 (Risking 2 units).

+230.00

[TheGame]

DETROIT -½ +106 over St. Louis  +212

After last night’s win, St. Louis has won 14 of 18 home games. On the road they’re a different story with just seven wins in 17 games. They’ve lost two of its last three road games with only win over that span coming against a Coyotes club that outshot them 26-18. The Blues have played some tough hockey but they’ve overachieved with the talent they have and a lot of their success has been due to hot goaltending. The kicker here is that the Blues have beaten the Red Wings both games this season and an inferior club will seldom beat the superior club three times in succession. As tough as the Blues have been at home, Detroit has been better with 13 wins in 16 games at the Joe. They were flat last night in Nashville and you can be sure they had this game on their minds, as St. Louis sits one point above them in the standings. If Brian Elliott beats us, so be it. Jimmy Howard can play too and what we can almost guarantee is that the Red Wings will be jacked up and determined to beat this intruder for the first time this season, reminding St. Louis of who is boss. Play: Detroit -½ +106 (Risking 2 units). 


COLUMBUS +110 over Calgary  -200

Much prefer a team playing its second game back after a break than a team playing its first game back. Despite some wins (and some losses too), we saw a bunch of teams come out flat yesterday including Detroit, Chicago, San Jose, New Jersey and Washington. Interestingly enough, the Jackets weren’t one of those teams. Down 3-0 headed to the third, Columbus absolutely dominated the Blackhawks in the final period, allowed just 22 shots on net the whole game and that shows a team that surprisingly has not quit. The Flames are coming off a couple of big wins prior to the break. They beat Detroit and followed that up with its biggest win of the year over the Canucks in Vancouver, thus creating this letdown spot. The Flames have won three in a row and will now play their second game of a six-game trip. However, they returned home for the Christmas break and have been off for three full days. After three days rest and following a win, the Flames are 0-2 this season. The Jackets are an enigma. They have more talent that many teams in this league but they keep losing. If last night’s effort is duplicated here, they’ll get the money and the short line strongly suggests that’s a distinct possibility. Play: Columbus +110 (Risking 2 units).

+12.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

N.Y. Rangers –104 over WASHINGTON  -208

Simply stated, the Capitals have too many flaws to overcome the juggernaut Rangers. Washington has just two wins in its past six games and they’ve managed just 28 shots on net or less in five straight. That’s not going to get it done against the stingy Rangers. Since Dale Hunter took over approximately one month ago, the Caps have responded with very few inspiring efforts and it’s becoming more and more evident the problem was not Bruce Boudreau. Meanwhile, the Rangers have won five straight, seven of nine and they’ve not allowed more than two goals in any of those wins. The Rangers only losses over that span came in St. Louis against the red-hot Blues and a 1-0 loss against Dallas in which they were clearly the better team. New York also has 12 wins in 18 road games and not only are they superior to the Caps, they’re in a great state of mind, as winning is as contagious as losing. Play: N.Y. Rangers –104 (Risking 2.08 units to win 2).

Vancouver +107 over SAN JOSE Pinnacle  +214

Anytime we can take back a tag on the Canucks you can pencil us in every time. The Canucks are an elite outfit that has beaten the Sharks in six of the last seven games and there’s no reason to expect a different result here. Vancouver has won four of five and scored four goals or more in all of those wins. The Sharkies are coming off a 3-2 home loss to the Ducks and that snapped Anaheim’s 13-game road losing streak. The Sharks are a good team but they’ve been wildly inconsistent this season with many bad losses and shaky goaltending throughout. That shaky goaltending is what makes the Canucks so appealing, as they’re as talented offensively as any team on the circuit. Play: Vancouver +107 (Risking 2 units).

+6.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

N.Y. ISLANDERS +105 over Calgary  +210

The Flames have won four in a row and they haven’t allowed more than two goals against in any of those games. They’ve won two straight on the road and this will be their third road game of a season long six-game trip. Thing is, very average teams rarely go on prolonged winning streaks in this league and that’s exactly what Calgary is. The Flames rarely play on the Island, with just two games here since ’06 and with upcoming games against Nashville, Washington and Boston to close out this trip, they could certainly be flat here. Even at their best, Calgary probably shouldn’t be favored in Long Island. Reports out of Long Island are that the team has had some very spirited practices over the past two days. They’ve lost three in a row and they’ll be more urgency on this bench than on Calgary’s. Make no mistake about it, the Islanders have more talent than Calgary and all things being equal, we expect the host to get off the mattress here. Play: N.Y. Islanders +105 (Risking 2 units).   

CAROLINA +102 over Toronto  +204

The Hurricanes are playing much better since the firing of Paul Maurice with points in five of their last seven games. One of those losses came against Phoenix when they blew a 3-1 lead, outshot the Coyotes 37-19 and completely dominated play. The other loss came in Pittsburgh. During that span they have wins over both Vancouver and New Jersey, two of the hottest teams in the game. Carolina outshot Vancouver 41-36 and outshot the Devils 33-25. The ‘Canes always brings intensity when playing Toronto, as these two have developed a nice rivalry over the years and it’s also worth noting that the ‘Canes have a big edge in net with Cam Ward. The Maple Leafs have lost four of six. James Reimer, the supposed saviour of this franchise, has been wildly inconsistent. He was yanked in his last game and his confidence level has to be questioned. The Hurricanes are in better form and they’re wrongly being billed as the pup in this contest. Play: Carolina +102 (Risking 2 units).

DALLAS -½ -110 over Columbus  -220

You wouldn’t think that the Stars would be jacked up to play the Blue Jackets and in normal circumstances they wouldn’t. However, tonight is a different story as Kari Lehtonen, out since Nov. 26, makes his return. Dallas has watched its goalies go 7-5-0 with a 3.08 goals-against average since losing Lehtonen, who is 13-4-1 with a 2.34 GAA. The players love this guy and they’re thrilled he’s back. Meanwhile, the Jackets haven’t won in regulation on the road all year and that’s not a typo. They blew a 4-1 lead against Nashville just before the break and followed that up with a home loss in OT to Calgary. Losing takes its toll and the Jackets have to be a mentally drained team. The defense is weak and the goaltending is weaker. Curtis Sanford is nursing an injury and that forces the team to go with Steve Mason tonight. He’s 0-8-0 with a 4.80 GAA on the road this season. Can this one turn out any other way? We think not. Play: Dallas -½ -110 (Risking 2.2 units to win 2).

Montreal +115 over TAMPA BAY Pinnacle -200

The best part about wagering on the Canadiens is that when Carey Price plays, you always have a chance to win. The Canadiens got their first win for their new coach and it was an impressive 6-2 victory over the Senators on Tuesday. They got production from many different sources and that’s a good sign indeed. The Lightning are too risky as a favorite. They’ve lost nine of their past 13 games. Two of four wins came against Columbus and Calgary. They’re coming off a misleading win over Philly in which they were clearly dominated and outshot by a 32-16 count. The Bolts have unsteady goaltending and a weak group of defenseman. In a game that is fairly evenly matched, the goaltending of Carey Price tilts the edge in our favor and the tag seals it. Play: Montreal +115 (Risking 2 units).

-6.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

N.Y. ISLANDERS -½ +137 over Edmonton  +274

Don’t be surprised to see the Islanders go on a little bit of a run. What’s so fascinating about this team is that they’ve scored the least amount of goals in the NHL and if all things are truly equal, they could go on a huge scoring spree any time now. The Islanders are loaded with goal scorers and point producers. Michael Grabner (26 goals in the last 44 games a year ago), John Tavares (29 goals last year), Matt Moulson (33 goals last year), P.A. Parenteau (leads team with 30 points), Josh Bailey, Kyle Okposo and d-man Mark Streit all have strong offensive credentials. They’ve grossly under-produced this season but it’s unlikely to last. One good offensive outing could open up the floodgates for the Islanders and surely they could go off here against an Oilers team that is not only reeling but is in a highly unusual situation. The Oilers played in Vancouver on Monday and Minnesota on Thursday. They’ll start at 1:00 PM EST here, making this the third different time zone in succession this week. One really has to wonder when the last time the Oilers played a 1:00 PM start on the east coast? Probably never and it’s equivalent to a 10:00 AM local start for them. The Oilers have dropped six of seven and things don’t figure to get any easier in this extremely difficult scheduling spot. Play: N.Y. Islanders -½ +126 (Risking 2 units).   

NEW JERSEY +120 over Pittsburgh  +240

These two rivals have played just once this season with the Penguins winning 4-1 back in October. A lot has happened since then and one of those occurrences has been the rejuvenation of the Devils after an off year. In no way should New Jersey be a dog in their own barn against the banged up Pens. The Devils have won eight of their last 11. They’re just getting better with each passing game and they’re healthier than they’ve been in two years. The Devils top three lines are as good as any in the game. Man, this team is still undervalued and we’ll stay on them for as long as that continues. The Pens are solid too but outside of goaltending they have no edge here whatsoever. Pittsburgh has a long injury list to key players and they’re just two games above .500 on the road. Regardless of the outcome, there is not a game on the board today that offers up more value than the Devils as a pup at home. Play: New Jersey +120 (Risking 2 units). 

St. Louis +158 over DETROIT  -200

We’re going to play this in regulation only because the Blues are 0-5 in shootouts with one goal in 17 attempts. These two have played three games this season with St. Louis holding a 2-1 lead. All three games were decided by a single goal and the Blue Notes have had a lead in all three games. Brian Elliott is 14-4 with a 1.63 GAA and it’s becoming more and more evident that he’s the real deal and not a half season fluke. The Red Wings need no introduction. They’re a top outfit that usually doesn’t lose at home. However, our philosophy has always been to look for value and let the chips fall where they may. Hence, there’s little doubt that the Blues are being offered too much weight here when you consider how well they’ve played for the past two months, how they’ve fared against Detroit and that they rarely lose with Elliott between the pipes. The Blue Notes played here in Detroit on Tuesday and lost 3-2 after being up 2-0 going to the third. They were without T.J. Oshie and Vladimir Sobotka. Oshie is definitely back while Sobotka’s return is probable and the Blue are better with that pair in the lineup. Play: St. Louis +158 (Risking 2 units).

+314.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

New Jersey +119 over OTTAWA  -200.00

As long as the books keep offering us these take-backs on the Devils, we’ll continue to confidently endorse them. All they do is keep winning games and keep outplaying the opposition. As a +120 pooch in its last game against Pittsburgh, New Jersey dominated the first period, took a 2-0 lead and in typical Devils style, shut down the Pens the rest of the way en route to an impressive 3-1 victory. Unlike Stanley Cup Devil teams in the past, this one can score goals and they still possess the league’s hottest line and a sizzling Ilya Kovalchuk. The Devils have now won nine of its past 12 games. Over the past calendar year, dating back to last December 31, New Jersey has recorded 102 points. Why this team is being overlooked is a mystery but that’s for others to figure out. For our money, the Devils once again offer up tremendous value and there’s no chance we’re passing up another opportunity to cash on them. Definite overlay. Play: New Jersey +119 (Risking 2 units).

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

Tampa Bay +128 over TORONTO  -200

Two teams that are in opposite forms. The Lightning are coming on strong with three wins in a row and just one regulation loss in their last seven games. Tampa has outscored its last three oponents by a count of 14-6 while scoring four or more in all three games. They bring the sizzling hot Steven Stamkos to town against the much maligned and well publicized Leafs penalty kill. Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs have just two wins over their last eight. They beat the Islanders and they beat a completely free-falling Sabres team. The Leafs also return home from a four-game trip and perhaps the worst news of all is that they beat the Lightning 7-1 in Tampa earlier this year. The Bolts have had this one circled on their calenders ever since. Lastly, the Lightning begin an exciting three-game trip beginning here that will alos see them play in Montreal and Ottawa and every player in the league looks forward to the Toronto-Montreal-Ottawa trip. Play: Tampa Bay +128 (Risking 2 units).

NY Islanders +107 over CAROLINA  +214

The Islanders aren't exactly setting the world on fire but they have won two in a row and four of its last seven games. Two of their three losses over that span came against the surging Rangers and that's nothing to hang your head over. The Islanders have also outscored their last two oponents by a score of 7-2 and it's always a good sign when a team starts allowing less goals than they were earlier. The Hurricanes, well, they're the Hurricanes. They're a beatable team that should never be bet on when laying juice. They are playing better since Kirk Muller took over but they still have just one regulation win over its last seven games. The Canes are under 500 at home while the Islanders could be on the verge of its annual second half run to just miss the playoffs. Play: N.Y. Islanders +107 (Risking 2 units).

+14.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers

Winnipeg +119 over MONTREAL Pinnacle  -200
The Jets are coming off a tremendous December in which they won nine of 12 home games and picked up 21 out of a possible 28 points overall. They shot up in the standings and they're now sitting in the eighth and final playoff spot. The Jets are just 5-8-4 on the road and after a heavy home schedule, the players are all aware of how crucial this four-game trip is. After this game, Winnipeg will play in Toronto, Buffalo and Boston and nothing less than two wins will be acceptable. Defensively, the Jets have stepped it up big time. In December they allowed four goals in a game only twice and just seven goals in the last five games, four of them in one game, their only loss in the last five, to Pittsburgh. Andrej Pavelec has an outstanding .950 save percentage in his last 7 games. This is a good Jets hockey team on the first game of a crucial four-game trip. The Canadiens aren't so good. Montreal has one win in its last seven games. They've allowed four goals or more in five of those games. The Habs virtually have no shot of winning when they allow four goals and very little shot when they allow three. This is a fragile team in an explosive market and Montreal's good fortune over the past three years with poor teams seems to have finally run its course. Betting against Montreal and taking back a tag is a winning proposition over time. Play: Winnipeg +119 (Risking 2 units).
 
 
ANAHEIM +138 over San Jose Pinnacle  -200
The Ducks? Are we serious? Yes, we are very serious because the Sharks are coming off back-to-back games against the Canucks, a team they so desperately want to beat every time they play them. When Vancouver and San Jose get together it's pure hatred and nastiness out there. San Jose lost the first game of the back-to-backs but came back and won the second game in Vancouver this past Monday and it was the Sharks biggest celebration of the season. The Ducks always give them trouble and now Anaheim has caught the Sharks in another vulnerable spot. We're not going to write about the Ducks chances. This team is having an awful year and there's no getting around that. However, they come into this one after consecutive home losses to Colorado and Vancouver while being outscored 9-4. They've been off since New Year's Eve and thus, they've had some good practice time at home, they're well rested and they still have some of the NHL's best point producers. The situation and price dictates the wager. Play: Anaheim +138 (Risking 2 units).
 
 
NEW JERSEY +144 over Boston Pinnacle  -200
The Devils continue to get overlooked by the public and/or books and that's evident in this number. New Jersey was well on their way to another victory in its last game with a 2-0 lead over Ottawa going to the third. However, a late shorthanded, soft goal and subsequent awful penalty call in OT did them in. They still picked up a point and it's been over a month since New Jersey lost two in a row. With better goaltending they would be a serious Cup contender. The Bruins need no introductions. On most nights they look almost unbeatable and one could certainly argue that they're better than last year's Stanley Cup team. That said, this has nothing to do with wagering against the B's but everything to do with taking back a sweet tag on the rock-solid Devils at home. Play value and let the chips fall where they may and that's precisely what we're doing here. Play: New Jersey +144 (Risking 2 units).

-600.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

Chicago +108 over PHILADELPHIA   -200

The Flyers are coming off that Winter Classic game in what has to be considered more of a showcase than a true home game. That was after five straight on the road and now they'll play their first game at the Wells Fargo Center since Decemeber 17. Philly comes into this game with plenty of issues to deal with. The signing of Ilya Bryzgalov as the team savior is not working out. Bryzgalov is fragile and even more so at home, where the boos are just waiting to rain down on him. Jaromir Jagr was injured in the WC and will miss some time and the Flyers have dropped three of four and five of their past seven games. The Blackhawks will go with Ray Emery here. Emery went 5-1-0 with a 2.11 GAA during a recent string of six consecutive starts. Chicago has won 10 of its last 14 games and they're 4-0 after a loss playing on two full days of rest like they will be doing here. Play: Chicago +108 (Risking 2 units).

TORONTO -½ +122 over Winnipeg  +244

The Jets went into Montreal last night wanting to set a tone for what the players called a crucial four-game trip. They allowed seven goals against and lost 7-3. It was Winnipeg's eighth loss in its last 10 road games. Overall, they have five road wins in 18 games. Fresh in the Maple Leafs mind is a recent 3-2 loss in Winnipeg. The Leafs are coming off an impressive 7-3 voictory of their own over the Lightning. They completely dominated play. Toronto now has an opportunity to jump from 10th place in the standings to sixth with a win here. This is one of Toronto's most important games of the season and we like that Ron Wilson has decided to use Jonas Gustavsson over James Reimer. The Grabovski/Kulemin/Frattin line is heating up big time, giving the Leafs a solid complimentary second line to their dangerous and productive first line. The Jets are without Bryan Little and Dustin Byfuglien and while they may be able to overcome injuries at home, they once again proved they're very beatable outside of the MTS Center. Play: Toronto -½ +122 (Risking 2 units).

Columbus +196 over SAN JOSE  -200

The Sharks are a quality squad that can beat any team in this league when they're on their game. However, the Sharkies have also been off their game far too many times this season and this looks like an extremely vulnerable spot for them. San Jose is coming off back-to-back games against Vancouver and Anaheim. They had lost three straight to the Ducks prior to last night so they came out determined to get that monkey off its back against one of its biggest rivals. They Sharks also wanted to beat the Canucks badly and they did. That's back-to-back wins over its two biggest rivals and three intense games in a row. Now San Jose will play its third game in four nights against a team they'll figure all they'll have to do to win is show up. The Jackets don't have many wins this season but if you take them lightly they''ll burn you. They have many quality players and they play good hockey but a lack of quality goaltending has cost them so many games this season. The Jackets have been off since New Year's Eve. They begin a four-game trip here and they should be so much fresher than this exhausted host coming off three intense games in a row, playing its third in four and tail-end of back-to-backs. Play: Columbus +196 (Risking 2 units).

-156.00

[TheGame]

Pass Friday

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

BOSTON -½ +102 over Vancouver -200

1:00 PM EST. Stanley Cup hangover? That lasted approximately three games to open the year but since then, the Bruins have been like Mary Poppins, practically perfect in every way. Boston's recent record and offensive numbers are staggering. The Bruins have lost just four games over their past 27. In Boston’s past seven games, they have wins of 9-0, 6-1, 8-0 and 6-0 among others. The NHL hasn't seen a team dominating like this since the Montreal Canadiens of the 70's and the Islanders of the early 80's. Among the other 29 teams in the NHL, there's probably no other team that the B's would rather beat up on than the Canucks. These two met in last year's Finals and the Canucks played nasty like they always do. Vancouver tried to intimidate Boston and they tried to impose their physical will on them. It worked somewhat at the beginning of the series in Vancouver but in the end, the Bruins prevailed with a dominating game seven victory in Vancouver. In the three games played in Boston, The B's outscored the Canucks 17-3 and made Roberto Luongo look like a mouse. Luongo has been off since Wednesday's shutout. Interesting that he's opted out of this game. Instead of insisting to play to redeem himself, he's taken the cowards way out once again and the B's will make the Canucks pay once again. Play: Boston -½ +102 (Risking 2 units).

SAN JOSE -½ +110 over Washington  +220

The best thing about this game is that the Capitals have won four straight and the perception is that they've shaken off a rough stretch and they're back to being the Caps of old. Think again. Washington's four wins came against the Rangers at home (give them credit) but then they beat reeling teams, Columbus, Buffalo and Calgary. The Caps only road win over that span came in Columbus in a game they trailed going to the third period. Prior to that road win they had lost three straight on the road. The Caps are an average hockey team that is going to be frequently exposed as such the rest of the way against good teams. Now they'll play on the road against an elite team that is heating up. The Sharks have won three in a row and seven of nine. They recently took three out of a possible four points against Vancouver. They are not only winning lately but they're also dominating play, spending most of the game in the other teams end. Even when the Caps were a force in this league and favorites to win the Cup, they never had success at the Shark Tank. They don't play here much but their last five trips here have resulted in losses by scores of 3-2, 5-2, 7-2, 4-1 and 2-0 and we expect nothing less here. Play: San Jose -½ +110 (Risking 2 units).

Colorado +168 over ST. LOUIS  -200

The Avalanche played last night in Chicago but fatigue should not be an issue, as Colorado had been off for three days prior. They come into this game as the second hottest team in the NHL, behind the Bruins, with a four-game winning streak and victories in nine of its last 10 games. Aside from this sweet tag, what makes the Av's even more appealing is that they own the Blues. Since the beginning of the 2010 season, Colorado has beaten this host two straight and in eight of nine games. When Ken Hitchcock took over in St. Louis, they went on a huge run and sustained it for some time. However, there are signs that they're cooling off. The Blue Notes rallied from a 3-1 deficit in its last game to just beat the Oilers. They had lost three of four before that and they're just 5-5 over its last 10 games. The Blues last five wins have come against Columbus, Phoenix twice, Dallas and Edmonton and what those teams have in common is that all will miss the playoffs. Blues on the decline, Avs peaking equals an overlay and great chance for ching ching in our pockets. Play: Colorado +168 (Risking 2 units).

Minnesota +104 over CALGARY -200

How can we not take the Wild here? Calgary has lost five games in a row and they return home from a grueling seven-game trip that started before Christmas. They come home with more casualties than a Quentin Tarantino movie, not to mention the suspension of Rene Bourque until January 14. This was a weak team to begin with and now they're being asked to win without the services of Bourque, Alex Tanguay, Derek Smith and Matt Stajan who join Mark Giordano and David Moss on the rack. The Wild are going through a rough stretch of their own. However, we saw this team play exceptionally well in late November and early Decemeber and they finally have most of their injured players back. The Wild at least play their hearts out on most nights and they really couldn't handpicked a team as beatable as the Flames are right now. Play: Mnnesota +104 (Risking 2 units).

-380.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

ANAHEIM -½ +108 over Columbus  +216.00

Not a lot has gone right for either one of these two teams but the Ducks are at home and they're in a much better situational spot than the Blue Jackets. Columbus played yesterday in Los Angeles. They also played on Thursday in San Jose, thus making this game its third in four days and tail end of back-to backs. The Jackets own the worst road record in the NHL and in fact, yesterdays 1-0 win over the Kings was just their third road win of the year in 20 tries. Columbus has scored just twice in their past two road games and just four times in its last three. The Ducks are coming off a much needed win over the Islanders. They have just two wins over their past five but those last five games cames against the Sharks twice, the Canucks, Avanlanche and the aforemntioned Islanders. After playing that set and with a biug edge in net, they'll find the going much easier here against the most beatable guest on the circuit. Play: Anaheim -½ +108 (Risking 2 units).

[TheGame]

LOS ANGELES -½ +134 over Washington Pinnacle
The Caps won four in a row prior to losing to the Sharks on Satuday but they only played one road game over that span and they beat the Jackets. Everyone beats the Jackets. Prior to that road win, Washington lost four straight on the road and when you inlcude San Jose, that's five losses in their last six road games. Playing the Kings in Los Angeles can be very frustrating becauase L.A. gives up nothing. This is a host that's been involved in more low-scoring games than any team in the NHL. Three of their last five games have resulted in 1-0 finals. The joint should be rockin tonight, as this is just the Caps second trip here since '05. It's a rare opportunity for these fans to see the Great 8 and it adds excitement and energy for the home team. We've said it all year that the Caps are about as average as they come and they'll play tonight without Mike Green and Niklas Backstrom. Expect the Kings to come up with one of their finest performances of the year. Play: Los Angeles -½ +134 (Risking 2 units). +268.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

New Jersey -101 over CALGARY  -202

In terms of value, no other team on today’s board offers as much as the Devils do. Detroit is a -180 favorite on Long Island, Philly is a -160 chalk in Carolina and the Canucks, playing their third game in four days is –150 in Tampa Bay. Surely, this game is as big a mismatch as any of those three and if it's not, it sure is close. New Jersey remains hot with just one regulation loss (to the Bruins) in its last six games. They've won 11 of 16 games and they have as good a record as any team in the NHL over the past calender year. This is a Stanley Cup contender that plays hard every night. Meanwhile, the Flames have one win over their past six. That lone victory came against Minnesota, a club that has one win in its last 12 games. The Flames are not in the same class as the Devils, it’s as simple as that. This is true value and regardless of the outcome, we're undoubtedly going with the best of it here. Play: New Jersey -101 (Risking 2.02 units to win 2).

MONTREAL +101 over St. Louis -200

Lots of interest surrounding this game, as Jaroslav Halak returns to the city in which he was hailed a hero in Montreal's unlikely run to the conference finals two seasons ago. He may even get a hero's welcome from Habs’ fans. When the Canadiens management opted to sign Carey Price over Halak, the fans went into an uproar over that decision. As it turns out, it was the correct decision because Carey Price is one of the top five goaltenders in the league while Halak has become Brian Elliott's backup. The Blues come in here with a great overall record but on the road, they're two games under .500. They've won three in a row but all those were at home. Away from the Scottrade Center, the Blues have lost five of their last six. The Canadiens have won two in a row and scored 10 goals in doing so. They also have a recent six-goal outburst against Ottawa. Halak's nerves could get the best of him here. He's been given this start as a courtesy because he wants it so badly. Price is likely to have the better game because he's the superior goaltender and he’ll treat this one no differently than others. The books have made the Blue Notes a small favorite here and when they entice you to bet that way, it's usually wise to go the other way Play: Montreal +101 (Risking 2 units).

Ottawa +130 over PITTSBURGH  +260

Boy, the hockey gods really have it in for the Penguins. Last season was lost due to injuries to several key players and they just couldn't compensate for the loss of so much talent. Coach Dan Bylsma held it together the best he could, keeping the Penguins motivated even when their injury situation was grave. With the worst seemingly behind them, the Pens appeared geared up for a solid 2011-12 campaign. Pittsburgh got off to a good start and they were actually favored to win the Cup just six weeks ago. So much has changed since then. Sidney Crosby may not play again this year. James Neal is out with a broken foot. Jordan Staal is out 4-6 weeks with a knee injury. Craig Adams injured his right knee after colliding with teammates. Kris Letang is out with a concussion. The list goes on and on and the results are that Pittsburgh has lost four in a row and they've scored a paltry five goals over that span. Mentally, the Pens have to be down. They're going to need a few games to digest everything and get their composure back. Even then, it's still going to be tough to compete. Meanwhile, no team in the NHL is having as much fun as the Senators. Here's a team that was predicted to finish last by every so-called expert in the business. They're playing with house money and they're winning. The Sens are coming off a 6-4 victory over Philly. They've won five of six with only loss coming against those same Flyers. Ottawa is in fifth place in the Eastern Conference, just two points behind the Flyers and three behind the Bruins. Lastly, since being pulled on Dec. 27th vs Montreal, Craig Anderson is 5-0-1 with a .926 save pct and 2.37 GAA Play: Ottawa +130 (Risking 2 units).

-142.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers

New Jersey +101 over EDMONTON Pinnacle
Perhaps the Devils 6-3 loss in Calgary last night was the best thing that could've happened in terms of us getting a sweet price on them today. Fact is, that loss last night was one of the most misleading scores of the year. The Flames scored six goals on 14 shots and had Marty Brodeur not been pulled earlier, Johan Hedberg would have been pulled. The Devils were swarming all game Hedberg commented afterwards on how he was awful and cost his team the game. He'll get a chance to redeem himself here, as he's the confirmed starter. New Jersey rarely loses two in a row. It's only happened four times this season and as long as Hedberg holds his own, they won't lose to this vastly inferior team, especially after getting smoked 6-3 but one inferior team yesterday. Play: New Jersey +101 (Risking 2 units).  +202.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers NHL

Ottawa +159 over N.Y. RANGERS (REG) Pinnacle  +318
The Rangers are having an outstanding year. They're first overall with 58 points and they've won five in a row and 10 of their past 11 games, including the Winter Classic. While a letdown hasn’t occurred after the featured Classic, a hiccup here would not surprise. The Rangers play Saturday in Toronto on Hockey Night in Canada's marquee game and like most, the Rangers will be amped up for that one. New York has just three losses at home this season and two of those losses were to the Maple Leafs. The Blue Shirts have not beaten Toronto this year. Even if the Rangers are sharp, the Senators have a chance because they too are hot and playing some great hockey. Ottawa has won six of past seven and sit just three points behind the Bruins for first place in the Northeast Division. No team is having more fun than the unheralded Senators. They're loose, they're talented, they're dangerous and they offer up some excellent value here in a favourable situation. Play: Ottawa +159 (Risking 2 units).

ST. LOUIS -½ +140 over Vancouver Pinnacle  -200
The Canucks conclude their four games in six nights road trip here and they accomplished what they set out to do by beating the Bruins in Boston and winning twice already in the first three games. We can't stress enough how badly the Canucks wanted that win over the B's. To ask Vancouver to win in St. Louis in the final game of a trip is a tall order, especially after that win over Boston and two successive games in the relaxing atmosphere in the state of Florida. The Blues have just five losses in 22 home games. Unlike earlier in the season, when they were not scoring goals and winning games 2-1, the Blue Notes are now scoring with more frequency. Over its past four games, St. Louis has 15 goals and has lit the lamp at least four times in three of those games. They've allowed a combined 34 shots on net over their past two games. The Blue Notes are playing as well as any team right now. With Brian Elliott in net and the Blues catching the Canucks at the right time, we'll gladly take a position on them to extend their winning streak to five. Play: St. Louis -½ +140 (Risking 2 units).

LOS ANGELES -½ +111 over Dallas (REG) Pinnacle  -200
Huge, huge game for the Kings, as they sit in eighth spot in the West just two points in front of Dallas and the Stars have two games in hand. The good news is that the Kings are coming off a much-needed, five-goal outburst against Washington after scoring just nine goals in their previous six games. The Kings are one of the most talented team's in the NHL but they've been the NHL's biggest underacheivers in the first half. Los Angeles could be the team to watch in the second half, as they're talented enough to go on a big run and that five-goal performance could've triggered it. L.A. has gone 13 games now without loisng two in a row and winning eight of those. The Stars lost Mike Robeiro to injury. They're coming off a 5-2 loss in Anaheim and Jere Lehtonen has not been sharp at all since returning from his injury after a month away. In an important game that could have big implications down the road, give us the superior team at home that is in better form and that's showing signs of a major run. Play: Los Angeles -½ +111 (Risking 2 units)

-82.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers NHL

Toronto +103 over BUFFALO Pinnacle  -200
The Sabres have one win in their past seven games and that came against an Oilers team that has two wins in their last 13 games. Buffalo has scored three times in its last three games and 11 times in its last seven games. Aside from not playing with the grit we've been accustommed to seeing out of the Sabres, they're also been decimated with injuries to several key players. The team is a mess. The Maple Leafs are hot. They've won four in a row and outscored the opposition 17-6 over that stretch. Jonas Gustavsson is playing with confidence and has posted shutouts in two of his last four starts. The Leafs are healthier, they're in much better form and they've beaten the Sabres twice in the past three weeks. With a tag on the visitor, they're a must play against a reeling and mentally beaten down host. Play: Toronto +103 (Risking 2 units).
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Pittsburgh +104 over FLORIDA Pinnacle  208
The Panthers are having a tremendous year. They're first in the Southeast Division and they're 11-4-5 at home. That sounds pretty good when you say it but in reality they're 11-9 at home, as they've lost five games in extra time at the Bank Atlantic Center. 
The Panthers are usually involved in close games and the Penguins are certainly capable of making life tough on them. Pittsburgh's stock has plummeted. They've lost six in a row and they're being written off as a hard-luck club that has been gravely hit by the injury bug. We'll “buy low” and do it with confidence. A close look at those six losses reveals that the Pens have badly outshot every team they've played. Over its last eight games, the Penguins have allowed more than 23 shots on net just twice. For the most part, they're holding the opposition to about seven shots on net per period. This is not the M.O. of a losing team and the Penguins don't have the mentality of a losing team. They're mentally and physically tough. They're actually playing as well right now as they were at the beginning of the year when they were winning a lot more games than they were losing. The results aren't there but the effort is and so is their dominance on most nights. This team is virtually the same squad that won all those games earlier in the year and they can't keep losing games when they're playing this well. The Pens dig down even deeper here and get the result they deserve. Play: Pittsburgh +104 (Risking 2 units).

+8.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers NHL

NASHVILLE +104 over Philadelphia Pinnacle  +208
These two teams rarely play one another, having met just 14 times lifetime. Philly has been here twice since '05 and the Predators have won both games. That's not surprising because one figures the Preds to be more amped up to play a high-profile team like the Flyers at home in front of what figures to be a sold out house. Nashville is 4-1-1 at home vs. Eastern Conference teams and they've won six of their past seven games overall. The Flyers conclude a four-game trip here after winning their last two, discounting any sense of urgency. The two wins on this trip came against the ‘Canes and Islanders (big deal) and prior to that, Philadelphia had dropped four of seven. The Flyers are really not in the best form right now and that should work well for a warm and jacked up host Play: Nashville +104 (Risking 2 units).
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Ottawa -102 over MONTREAL Pinnacle  +200
To quote a line from the classic movie, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, “Who are these guys”?With the hated Canadiens on deck, all the Senators did was skate into Madison Square Garden on Thursday and hand the league-leading Rangers just their fourth loss at home this season. Since the end of the second period last Sunday, the Sens have outscored their opponents 12-1. Only five teams in the NHL have more points than Ottawa. They've won seven of eight and they've scored 14 times over their past three games. In its last four games against Philly twice, Pittsburgh and the Rangers, Ottawa has picked up seven of a possible eight points. The Sens are not a fluke, they've been doing this all year and they have payback on their minds here. The Montreal Canadiens are a team in complete chaos. Their talent deficit has been daunting for a long time and thus, years of overacheiving has finally caught up to them. Only the outstanding goaltending of Carey Price and Jaroslav Halak (previously) has kept them respectable. Carey Price is to Montreal what Peyton Manning is to the Indianapolis Colts. The best news is that the last time these two met on Dec 27, Montreal beat up the Senators 6-2. In a complete mismatch both in mind and talent, we'll gladly lay the small price. Play: Ottawa -102 (Risking 2.04 uniots to win 2).
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Los Angeles -105 over CALGARY Pinnacle  +200
At the time of this writing, there was no line posted but figure this game to be a pick ‘em or thereabouts. We will update this line as soon as it comes out. The Flames have won three in a row since that 9-0 thumping they took in Boston nine days ago but we're not buying it for a minute. They beat a reeling Minnesota club that is currently on a 2-12 run and they followed that up with a misleading 6-3 win over New Jersey. In that win over the Devils, Calgary scored six times on 14 shots on net with pretty much the entire game being played in Calgary's end. Finally, the Flames beat the Ducks 1-0 in OT on Thursday. The only deserving win was over Minnesota. Prior to that, the Flames had dropped nine of 13 games. The luck will run out as they can't keep winning games when they are outplayed constantly. The Kings play hard every game and appear ready to be climbing the standings. Quietly, the Kings have picked up points in 11 of their past 12 games and haven't lost two in a row in over a month. Play: Los Angeles -105 (Risking 2.1 units to win 2).

+608.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers NHL + 608.00 on Saturday / Passed Sunday

OTTAWA -½ -106 over Winnipeg (REG) Pinnacle  -212
The Jets have played some very good hockey in their own building and even went on a serious run at one point. However, their play on the road has been another story and their overall play over the past month sees them appearing to have run out of gas. The Jets are dealing with injuries to four starting defensemen, including Dustin Byfuglien and Zach Bogosian and they're simply not deep enough to compensate. Winnipeg has just scored just once over its past two games and just six times over its last five games. They have six road wins in 21 games. The Senators are showing no signs of slowing down. They've won four in a row and eight of their past nine. The Sens have outscored the opposition 17-7 over the past four games and only once in their past nine have they been held touinder three goals. The Sens are at home, they're healthy, confident and in great form while the Jets are the complete opposite right now. Play: Ottawa -½ -106 (Risking 2.12 units to win 2).

N.Y. ISLANDERS +105 over Nashville Pinnacle  -200
1:00 PM EST. The Predators play on the Island this afternoon and they play at Madison Square Gardens tomorrow. They've played here just twice since '06 and at MSG just once since '06 so it wouldn’t surprise if the Preds completely overlook this game in anticipation of playing one of the league's top teams in one of the league’s shrines. This is really a vulnerable spot for an overvalued guest that is quite average and quite beatable on the road. Despite a poor record, the Islanders have several good parts. They've won five of eight games and they're 4-1-0 in their last five at home. The Islanders are ranked in the top 10 for both power play and the penalty kill and that's a sign of good things to come. They had goaltending issues early in the year but Evgeni Nabokov has solidified the position and the team as a whole has stepped it up. The Islanders are coming off a recent 5-1 victory over the Red Wings and a 4-2 win over the Sabres. They're in a favorable spot here while offerering up some great value as a pooch in their own barn. Play N.Y. Islanders +105 (Risking 2 units).

-412.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS  NHL

Ottawa +111 over TORONTO  +222

The Senators came up a flat last night in a home loss to the Jets. It was their first regulation loss in three weeks and it was also the first time they were shut out this season. The last time the Sens lost in regulation they subsequently went on a 8-0-1 run. Now the Sens embark on a six-game trip that begins here and teams often play their best in the first game of a long trip in an attempt to set the tone. They also get a chance to face James Reimer, who is the confirmed starter for the Maple Leafs. Reimer hasn't played since New Year's Eve. In his last three games, Reimer has a 4.11 GAA and there's little doubt that he'll be feeling some pressure at home with the Leafs on a two-game losing streak. In the last two games that these two played against one another, the Sens scored eight times and won both. Play: Ottawa +105 (Risking 2 units).

Detroit -½ +105 over DALLAS   +210

Both teams will play their third game in four days but the difference is that the Red Wings are in much better form, they're deeper and they're healthier. The Red Wings are coming off a 5-0 win over Buffalo last night while the Stars were shutout in St. Louis. With that win last night, Detroit has won three in a row and outscored the opposition 11-4. By contrast, Dallas has scored once in its past two games and has lost three of its last four games. The Stars also lost Jamie Benn (42 points in 43 games) as he joins Mike Ribeiro (31 points in 40 games) on the rack. For an offensively challenged team, losing both those guys is a huge handicap and it's no mystery as to why the Stars have scored just once in two games. That leaves Loui Erikson as the Stars’ only bona fide scorer while Detroit has numerous threats. This is a cheap price for a superior team against a seriously hurting Dallas club that among issues mentioned, is also forced to go with its backup netminder tonight. Play: Detroit -½ +105 (Risking 2 units).

N.Y. Islanders +159 over WASHINGTON  +318

The Islanders lost 3-1 to the Preds yesterday but Nashville scored on its first two shots on net against backup goaltender Kevin Poulin (0-2-0). It'll be Evgeni Nabokov back between the pipes tonight against a strongly overvalued and overrated Caps team. The Islanders are playing some decent hockey right now but this one is all about taking back a pretty sweet price against this falesly perceived “good team”. They're not good. The Caps have won three in a row but the combined January record of opponents they've beaten is 5-13-2. In its last game against Carolina, the Caps were outshot 44-24. Only once in their past six games and twice in its past 10 has Washington mustered more than 24 shots on net. On most nights they're around the 21 shots on net range or about seven a period. In its last four games, they've been outshot 44-24, 31-20, 30-21 and 35-22. The Capitals are no better than most of the teams behind them in the standings and that 17-5-1 home record they possess is extremely misleading and fortunate. Playing against the Caps at these prices comes highly recommended because over the remainder of the year, it's likely going to be hugly profitable. Play: N.Y. Islanders +159 (Risking 2 units).

+750.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS  NHL

Florida +107 over COLORADO  -200.00

After a fantastic start and being this year's biggest surprise in the first 30 games of the season, the Florida Panthers have fallen back under the radar scope with just five wins in their past 16 games and one win in their past five contests. A closer look reveals that those past five have come against the Rangers, Devils, Pens, Canucks and Bruins, arguably five of the top teams in the league and the Panthers didn't look a bit out of place. They won once and took two others to OT. All season long, the Panthers have fared well against lesser opponents and the same should hold true here. The Avalanche are going backwards. They have some nice parts in place and the future looks bright but they're a playoff bubble team at best. Colorado's goaltending and defense are average and now they're having problems scoring. The Avs have lost four of five and have scored just six times in those five games. They've played seven of their past eight on the road and return home after a 6-1 beatdown in Phoenix after three consecutive away. The Panthers have been home for three straight, affording us a rested and superior team in a favorable spot against an exhausted and reeling host. Play: Florida +107 (Risking 2 units).

[TheGame]

Thursday pass

10 games tonight and a lot of big priced dogs but we're going to sit it out, as none of the dogs really look that appealing. Back tommorrow with more NHL.

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers NHL

CAROLINA +107 over Washington Pinnacle  +214
When the Capitals went into Montreal on Wednesday they were getting a takeback of +117. They beat the Habs 3-0 and now they're a -117 in Carolina? That alone tells us that we're going with the best of it in terms of value. These two played last Sunday in Washington and while the Caps did win 2-1, they were outshot 44-24. Add to the mix that this game is sandwiched between that win in Montreal and a featured NBC game on Sunday afternoon (12:30 PM start) against the Penguins and this one has even more appeal. Washiongton has won four of five but it's not believable. They continue to produce less scoring chances per games than anyone. Over its last 10 games (207 shots), the Caps are averaging about seven shots on net per period. Meanwhile, the 'Canes are playing much better lately. Joel Skinner is back and Eric Staal is producing again. Carolina has picked up points in three of its last four games and that includes a win over the Bruins and an OT loss in Pittsburgh. The 'Canes have won five of their past seven home games. Aside from that aformentioned win over Boston, they also beat New Jersey and Ottawa. They deserved to win in Washington last Sunday and now they catch those same Caps at precisely the right time. Wrong side favored. Play: Carolina +115 (Risking 2 units).

Tampa Bay +128 over DALLAS Pinnacle  +256
Dallas has dropped three in a row and they continue to struggle offensively without the services of Jamie Benn and Mike Ribeiro. That pair remains out and as a result, Dallas has scored just three goals over its last three games. The Lightning snapped an ugly seven-game slide against the Bruins in their last game and one win does wonders for team morale. With its 1-3-1 trap style, the Bolts are likely not going to give up many scoring chances to this offensively challenged host. These two rarely play one another and with already low attendance and this one not having much appeal to the locals, a small crowd with no atmosphere can't help the Stars chances either. Play: Tampa Bay +128 (Risking 2 units).

+470.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers NHL 2-0 +470.00 Last Night

Ottawa +110 over ANAHEIM Pinnacle  -200
4:00 PM EST. The Senators are two points behind the Rangers for first overall in the conference. They're four points behind Chicago for first place in the entire league. The Sens keep on winning, yet the books and/or public is not willling to give them elite status. That's fine by us because we keep cashing in on them and we're not about to stop now. Chicago, Boston, Philly, Detroit, Vancouver, San Jose, St. Louis and Pittsburgh would all be favored in Anaheim and Ottawa deserves the same billing. The Sens are coming off a 4-1 win in San Jose. They've picked up points in 11 of their past 12 games. Without trying to sound redundant, Ottawa is still not getting the credit they deserve. The Ducks have awoken with six wins in seven games but they beat the Islanders, Stars, Blue Jackets, Oilers and Coyotes. All five of those teams will be golfing in April. Anaheim has a good win in Vancouver mixed in there but the Canucks were returning home from that East Coast trip and were in a difficult spot. We'll give the Ducks some credit for their recent wins but their stock is way too high after beating a bunch of nobodies. The Ducks are still a weak team defensively while the Sens are having way too much fun to ignore as a pup against inferior clubs. Play: Ottawa +110 (Risking 2 units).
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TORONTO -½ +104 over Montreal (REG) Pinnacle  -200

Montreal’s 5-4 OT loss last night in Pittsburgh is a lot less credible than it appears to be. Pittsburgh was coming off a 4-1 win at Madison Square the previous night and were playing its third game in four days. The Habs blew a 3-1 lead in that game against a tired Pens club in a letdown spot. Now Montreal will play its third game in four days and tail end of back-to-backs. That’s a tough assignment for strong clubs but for weak one’s like the Canadiens it’s a daunting assignment. The Habs have dropped five of six and 12 of their past 16 games. They beat teams that are in unfavorable spots. Rarely do they outplay anyone and that’s because they’re hugely flawed on defense, offense and special teams. The Maple Leafs are coming off that 4-1 win over Minnesota. That’s not saying much but previous games are. Toronto clearly dominated Ottawa in that 3-2 loss but a soft goal allowed by James Reimer early in the third took all the steam out of the Leafs. They recently had a four-game winning streak in which they outscored the opposition 17-6. The Leafs are in a much more favorable spot, they’re the superior team by a wide margin, they’re at home and they’re rested. Play: Toronto -½ +104 (Risking 2 units).

-400.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

PITTSBURGH -½ +105 over Washington  +210.00

Once again we'll fade the Capitals until the books and public realize that this is a non-playoff team that is getting far too much credit because of the league's most misleading record. The Caps have won four of their past six. They outplayed and outchanced their opponent zero times over that span. Over its last 11 games, Washington has 230 shots on net, which is less than 21 shots on net per game, or seven shots on net per period. They've been shutout twice in its last three games by the Islanders and Hurricanes. In that recent 3-0 win over the Canadiens, they were outshot 31-16. 46 games into the season and it's not like the Caps are being outplayed or outworked once in a while. It happens every single game lately and it happens by a wide margin. They recently have a 1-0 win over the Penguins in a game in which Tomas Vokoun stood on his head. Since then the Penguins have reeled off five wins in a row and outscored the oppoosition 21-10. The Pens are an elite group that is vastly superior than this grossly overvalued Capitals club. The game is an early afternoon featured NBC game and if Anaheim is -½ +104 over Colorado today, than the Penguins should be -½ -180 over this weak and usually uninterested guest. Do not miss this wager. Play: Pittsburgh -½ +105 (Risking 3 units).