Sports Wagers NHL Tracking

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers NHL (1-0 +210 Sunday)

Columbus +210 over NASHVILLE Pinnacle  -200
In an 82-game schedule, there are going to be many games where emotion will emerge over talent. This one sets up that way. The Predators are rolling along with seven wins in their past eight games, now sitting eight games above .500. Nashville just returned home from a three-game trip on Saturday and promptly beat the league-leading and one of its biggest rivals, the Chicago Blackhawks, 5-2. They embark on another three game trip beginning tomorrow in Chicago, making this one a sandwich between two, three-game trips with a pair against the Blackhawks. With Pekka Rinne carrying the league's biggest workload among goaltenders, there's a good chance Barry Trotz will give Rinne the day off here in favor of Anders Lindback. Nashville just went into Columbus during that recent three-game trip and beat them 3-0. The Blue Jackets outshot the Preds 38-25 and a similar effort here could certainly get us to the cashier's booth. Price and situation dictates strong underdog possibility. Play: Columbus +210 (Risking 2 units).

N.Y. Islanders +120 over TORONTO Pinnacle  -200
In a huge game this past Saturday, with a chance to pick up two vital points, the hated and troubled Canadiens rolled into Toronto to play its third game in four days. The favored Maple Leafs were dreadful and fell to Montreal 3-1. It was without question, the worse loss of the year for the Buds. It's one thing to play hard and get stonewalled by a hot goaltender but that wasn't the case. The Leafs, having missed the playoffs for nine straight years and fighting for a spot this year, came up lame. In terms of excuses, there are none. Now the Islanders roll into town, playing some outstanding hockey. New York has won three straight over Washington, Philly and Carolina and outscored that trio 9-2 with the first two coming on the road. John Tavares is smokin' hot with a 12-game points streak (eight goals, 13 assists), which is the longest streak in the NHL this season. The Islanders are having fun again and they're playing loose with great results. Conversely, the Maple Leafs are feeling pressure and folding under it, just like they do every year.. Play: N.Y. Islanders +120 (Risking 2 units).
 
CAROLINA -½ +137 over Winnipeg (REG) Pinnacle  +274
No doubt the Winnipeg Jets deserved a better fate on Saturday night against Florida. They outhit, outchanced, outworked and outshot the Panthers but lost in OT, 4-3. That was a big loss because the Jets had a chance to leapfrog past the Panthers into the final playoff spot in the conference. Now they'll take to the road where they're just not the same team as they are at home. Winnipeg has just seven road wins in 23 games and things don't figure to get easier here. The Hurricanes last four home games have come against Washington, Boston, Philly and Buffalo. Their only loss in that set was a 2-1 defeat to the Flyers. The 'Canes have picked up points in four of six games and that also includes a 2-1 OT loss in Pittsburgh and a 2-1 OT loss on the Island. Carolina is in better form than the Jets and they have a huge edge in net with Cam Ward over either one of the Jets’ netminders Play: Carolina -½ +137 (Risking 2 units).

-126.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers NHL

Buffalo +146 over NEW JERSEY (REG) Pinnacle  +292
The Sabres have lost 12 straight on the road and with six full days off for the All-Star break after this game, expect the Sabres to dig down deep here. Buffalo is playing poorly but they're not a lousy team. Many expected them to be Stanley Cup contenders this year but a slew of injuries and an uncharacteristic work ethic has crippled them. On the bright side, they’ll be facing Marty Brodeur here. The Devils rarely get outplayed but they've lost more games this year because of poor goaltending than any team in the league. That makes them a huge risk laying big juice. In its past two games against Boston and Philly, New Jersey was outscored 8-2 and Brodeur allowed four goals on 20 shots and three goals on 24 shots respectively. Against Calgary on Jan 10, Brodeur allowed two goals on two shots, was yanked and the Flames ended up scoring six goals on 14 shots. These are not aberrations. This has been ongoing for a year and half now. Brodeur is an “old” 40-years of age. He's slow and he's like an old boxer that doesn't want to give up. Minus goaltending, the Devils are as good as any team in the league. With Brodeur in net and laying close to -160, the Devils are a team to fade Play: Buffalo +146 (Risking 2 units).

PHOENIX -½ +123 over Ottawa (REG) Pinnacle  +246
This is all about playing against the Senators in an almost impossible spot. Ottawa has played an NBA-like schedule over the past two weeks. This will be the Sens eighth road game since Jan 10 and their ninth game overall in that two-week span. They played last night in Los Angeles and Saturday in Anaheim. In summarizing, Ottawa will play its ninth game in 14 days, third in four days and tail end of back-to-backs with every game coming on the road with the exception of one. They've had a terrific first half and after a gruelling stretch of games, no team is looking forward to the break more than these guys. Ottawa is hosting the All-Star game and four of the six starters (Spezza, Alfredsson, Karlsson and Michalek) are Senators. Although not confirmed, expect backup Alex Auld in net for this one and if not, it'll be the worn out Craig Anderson. The hard-working and rested Coyotes are more than capable of beating this drained visitor. Play: Phoenix -½ +123 (Risking 2 units).

CHICAGO -½ +112 over Nashville (REG) Pinnacle  -200
The Predators will go into the break feeling pretty good about themselves. They'll go into the break this year on a three-game winning streak, with eight wins in their past nine. However, they also played last night and this will be their fifth game in seven nights. A game Saturday was against these same Blackhawks and the Preds beat them 5-2. That was the last time Chicago played. On two full days rest this year, Chicago is 9-4. On two days rest following a loss, they're 4-1 and that loss to this same foe is fresh on their minds. On zero days rest, the Preds are 2-4. On zero days rest following a win they're 1-3. Sure, Jonathan Toews and Patrck Sharp are injured but the Blackhawks are deep enough to overcome it and they're simply the superior team at home in a better situation. Play: Chicago -½ +112 (Risking 2 units).
 
Boston -½ +100 over WASHINGTON (REG) Pinnacle  -200
How much of an underlay is this on Boston? If this were the Bruins in Columbus and Rick Nash was suspended, the Bruins would be a 2-1 or better favorite and -½ -130 on the puck line. Well, the Caps minus Alex Ovechkin are no better than the Jackets minus Nash. The Caps are still without Nicklas Backstrom and Mike Green. Washington has dropped three of four with only win over that span coming against the Canadiens in a game they were outshout 31-16. We're sticking to our guns in suggesting that the Capitals are among the bottom feeders in the league and the fact that we can take the Bruins to win this one in regulation without having to lay anything has to be considered one of the top wagers of the season. Washington has had difficulties competing on the same level with most teams this season with A.O. Without him and the two aforementioned injured players, they can't compete with many, let alone the champs. Play: Boston -½ +100 (Risking 2 units).

+138.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

EDMONTON +102 over Colorado   -200

Despite another awful season, the Oilers have been fairly decent at home with a 12-8-3 record. Edmonton also showed some nice form before the break by picking up three out of a possible four points against Vancouver and San Jose. Devan Dubnyk is without doubt the goaltender of the future and he was real sharp in both mentioned. He is the confirmed starter for this one. The Avalanche are currently sitting firmly on the playoff bubble. Every game is important down the home stretch but back-to-back losses before the break to Minnesota and Anaheim doesn't exactly instil confidence in backing them as a road favorite. The Avs have goaltending issues and that's always a concern. Lastly, the Avalanche seem to bring out the best in the Oilers over the past couple of years, as Edmonton has won four of the past seven with two of those losses occurring in overtime. Play: Edmonton +102 (Risking 2 units).

Toronto +150 over PITTSBURGH  -200

The Maple Leafs are in the hunt for a playoff spot and for a team that has missed the post-season for so long, it's crunch time. Toronto remains motivated and we expect them to come out of the break and give it everything they have. The Leafs are getting tremendous goaltending from Jonas Gustavsson, they're getting solid production from the top two lines and they've won three of their past four. They usually give the Penguins trouble. With a seven-game winning streak going into the break, Pittsburgh cannot be ignored but what we are counting on is the Maple Leafs to come out and play their hearts out for 60 minutes and for the remainder of the season. Too much being offered to ignore. Play: Toronto +150

-400.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers

ANAHEIM -½ +118 over Dallas (REG) Pinnacle  -200.00
There's 30 games remaining for the Ducks to get into the playoffs and the push is on. After last night's win in Phoenix, Anaheim has now won 10 of 12 games. Both losses over that span were 1-0 scores and one of them was in OT against Calgary and the other was to Dallas in a game they outshot the Stars 27-16. The Ducks could conceivably be on a 12-game winning streak. That loss to Dallas came in the team's final game before the break and now we get to play the Ducks at home with one game in the bank after the break while the Stars have been off for a full week. By contrast, that fortunate win by Dallas was its only victory in its past six. Dallas scored two goals or fewer in all six of those games. They do get Jamie Benn and Brenden Morrow back but chances are those two are going to need a game or two to get their legs going again. The Ducks are rolling big time. They're having fun for the first time all year and can't wait to get back on the ice and get back to work. You can see it in their body language and you can see it in everything else they're doing. This is no longer a frustrated team. This is no longer a frustrated Ducks team but definitely one to fear. Play Anaheim -½ +118 (Risking 2 units).

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers

Nashville +108 over PHILADELPHIA Pinnacle  -200
Since Dec 17, the Flyers are just 9-10. They were laboring before the break and they lost at home to the Jets, 2-1 in their first game back after the All Star game. Philly has several injuries to key personnel that include both James Van Riemsdyk and Daniel Briere. Another issue is goaltending. It seems like every goaltender the Flyers sign, draft or trade for ends up a bust. Ilya Bryzgalov was supposed to be the guy this time around but he's choking under the pressure of playing in a hot market, unlike his time spent in Phoenix and Anaheim. Meanwhile, the Preds have one of the league’s best puck stoppers in Pekka Rinne. They're also the hottest team in the league with five wins in a row, 10 wins in their past 11 and 13 wins in 15 games. They were flat off the break and trailed Minnesota 4-1 going to the third period on Tuesday. A furious rally ensued and the Preds extended their winning streak. Also note that the Preds have allowed two goals or less in nine of 11 while scoring four or more six times over that span. Sticking with the hot squad at price. Play: Nashville +108 (Risking 2 units).

Minnesota +122 over COLORADO Pinnacle  +244
The Wild blew a 4-1 third period lead in first game off the break against the Preds and while they didn't even pick up a point, they still had the hottest team in the league on the ropes. That is something they can take to the dressing room and apply to this game in much the same way the Maple Leafs did last night when they responded to the same situation by beating Pittsburgh. The Avalanche are not the Penguins either. This is a young Avs team that could be very fragile after three straight losses to beatable teams including a loss to Edmonton in their first game back after the break. Colorado has just two wins (Florida and Dallas) in its past 10 games and they're just too flimsy right now to trust as the chalk. Backup goaltender J.S. Giguere is the confirmed starter. Play: Minnesota +122 (Risking 2 units).

Montreal +133 over NEW JERSEY Pinnacle  -200
The New Jersey Devils are much more appealing as the dog than they are in the favorite's roll and once again it's because of weak goaltending. GM Lou Lamoriello has openly stated that he's going to give Brodeur a heavy dose of playing time over the next few weeks in an attempt to get him sharper or perhaps to see whether or not he has to dip into the trade market to strengthen the team. Time will tell but what we do know is that the Devils have lost three of four and needed a goal in the final minute to prevent that losing streak from reaching four. Prior to the break, the Devils outshot Buffalo 28-14 and lost. They outshot Philly 31-20, Boston 31-25, Calgary 38-14 and lost all three. How can the Devils be trusted laying juice when every puck stop is a battle? Conversely, Carey Price is among the best goalies in the game. Montreal has recent wins over Detroit, Toronto and the Rangers. They also have two recent shootout losses to Ottawa and Pittsburgh. In other words, the Habs are playing with a bit of a swagger right now under new coach Randy Cunnyworth. Combine the Canadiens strong efforts with the goaltender mismatch and an upset is a distinct possibility. Play: Montreal +133 (Risking 2 units).

-156.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

Columbus +201 over ANAHEIM  +402

The Jackets are 0-5 on their current six-game trip that wraps up tonight. They've lost six in a row and own the worst record in the league. Based on that, it's no mystery as to why they're being offered such a generous tag. However, everyone is aware of what happened to them last game and the players were furious. Points were stolen from them and while it surely won't matter in the end, it's still a huge insult to these pros that work hard to win for their fans, coaches, the integrity of the game and each other. We expect a spirited response from the Blue Jackets here. They have enough pride and talent to rebound. The Ducks are coming off a 6-2 loss to the Stars and while the score is misleading, Anaheim's earlier run of 23 losses in 29 games is not. Of course, they're playing better but they hardly warrant being a 2-1 favorite over anyone and that includes a steamed up guest. Play: Columbus +201 (Risking 2 units)

CALGARY +115 over Chicago  +230

The Blackhawks have dropped four in a row and have been outscored 19-9 over that span. They'll play their third game in four days and tail end of back-to-backs after losing 8-4 in Edmonton last night. It's no secret that Chicago is in desperate need of goaltending help and while they overcame that a couple of years ago because of great talent, they couldn't carry it over last season and they won't this year. After this game, Chicago has three full days off and you can be sure that Marion Hossa and Patrick Kane need it after participating in the all star festivities. These games are crucial for Calgary. They sit three points behind Minnesota for the 8th and final playoff spot but they also have to leapfrog Colorado and Dallas to get there. They can't afford to fall behind much more or that hole is going to get larger with each passing loss. The Flames are rested and ready. They've lost three straight at the Saddledome but prior to that they were 13-5-2 at home. Play: Calgary +115 (Risking 2 units).

N.Y. Islanders +137 over OTTAWA  +274

The first thing to note here is that the Senators have the Maple Leafs on deck tomorrow night in the second of back-to-back home games on CBC's Hockey Night In Canada. The Sens haven't played at home since January 16th and return to Scotiabank Place after a tough six-game trip that saw them lose their last four games. The All-Star break figures into that equation, as Ottawa returned home but they resumed play on the road in Boston to wrap up that six-game trip on Tuesday. The local media is talking about the All-star event and the way the fans vehemently booed the Maple Leafs, even during the all-star draft. Nobody is talking about the Islanders. Quietly, they've pick up points in five of their past six and that includes wins in Philadelphia and Washington. They also have a recent 5-1 win over Detroit among others. The Islanders usually get red-hot after the break to just miss the playoffs and that's something we can cash in on. The Islanders are playing well, they're scoring goals, they're in a good situation and they're taking back a nice tag. Play: N.Y. Islanders +137 (Risking 2 units).

Los Angeles +135 over ST. LOUIS  -200

Expect a correction in the Blues home record at some point. St. Louis is an incredible 21-3-4 at home and records like that can only be found on dynasty teams of the past like the Canadiens of the 70's and the Oilers of the 80's. The Blue Notes do not belong in that category. They're good but they're not 21-3 at home good. The Blues will play their first game back after the break, meaning they've been off for nine full days after dropping their final two games before the break. St. Louis has scored two goals or less in four of its past five games. Two wins over that span were both 1-0 victories. The Kings come in off that bizarre 3-2 win over the Jackets. This is without question their most crucial stretch of games of the season. The Kings are in seventh place in the conference and embark on a pivotal six-game trip beginning here that could ultimately be the deciding fate of whether they get in or not. You can be 100% sure that the coaches addressed how crucial it is to set the tone and open up said trip with a win. The Kings couldn't have asked for a better time to play the Blues in St. Louis because of the aforementioned long layoff and we trust they'll be ready to take advantage. Play: Los Angeles +135 (Risking 2 units).

+704.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS NHL

Toronto +114 over OTTAWA  +228

Love ‘em or hate ‘em, you really have to like the way the Maple Leafs are playing these days. After badly outplaying Pittsburgh and blowing a 4-1 lead with 10 minutes to go in the game, the Leafs rebounded confidently and beat the Pens the very next night. They've won three of four but in reality that should be a four-game streak. Toronto has really cut down on scoring chances allowed and with Colby Armstrong back in the lineup, they figure to improve in that department even more. All of a sudden the Senators are on a six-game losing streak and they'll play the tail end of back-to-backs after losing to the Islanders last night. Winning becomes more difficult with each passing loss, as confidence drops and the fear of making a mistake increases. The Maple Leafs are simply the more confident, rested and in better form squad right now. Play: Toronto +114 (Risking 2 units).

CAROLINA -102 over Los Angeles  +200

The Kings were supposed to be contenders but with the least amount of goals scored in the league, just making the playoffs is going to be a challenge. In the first game of a crucial six-game trip last night, the Kings went into St. Louis and lost 1-0. They've scored one goal or less in four of their past seven games and the frustration continues. The Kings will now play their third game in four days and tail end of back-to-back road games. Carolina is last in the East but they're 9-9 over its past 18 games and they're coming off a 3-0 win in Boston. They also have a recent 3-0 win over the Capitals and with Cam Ward in net against this offensively challenged and frustrated group, expect the Kings scoring drought to continue. Play: Carolina -102 (Risking 2.04 units to win 2).

Minnesota +138 over DALLAS   -200

Much prefer the Wild taking back a decent tag than the Stars laying one. Dallas is much too erratic to be laying anything with. It's not uncommon to see them allow four or five goals, as they have in four of its last 10 games. They don't win enough either. The Stars have just two wins over their past eight games and both wins came against the Ducks. The Wild are warming up again. It wasn't long ago that they sat first in the conference before enduring a prolonged slump. They've seem to snap out of it with three wins in four games with only loss over that span occuring against the then red-hot Predators. Incidentally, Minnesota had a 4-1 lead in the thid period of that game in the third. Offensively, not much seperates these two but in terms of defense, goaltending, special teams and form, give a nice edge to the Wild in a game they surely have a great chance to succeed in. Play: Minnesota +138 (Risking 2 units).

+228.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

Edmonton +151 over TORONTO  -200

After two games against Pittsburgh and one against the Sens on Saturday night, this could be a big letdown spot for the Maple Leafs, especially with two road games on deck beginning tomorrow in Winnipeg and ending Thursday in Philly. James Reimer has been hearing for two days how great he's been in back-to-back shutouts and that he's back to being the James Reimer we witnessed last season. A hiccup here by Reimer would not surprise, as the backstop is a mediocre talent. The Oilers will come in here healthier than they've been in a while. Taylor Hall and Ryan Nugent Hopkins are both back in the lineup and the Oilers have responded with three wins in a row over Colorado, Chicago and Detroit. Over those three games, they’ve scored 16 times. Edmonton has picked up points in five straight games, as they split two OT games against San Jose and Vancouver prior to those three wins. In summarizing, the Oilers have picked up points over Chicago, Detroit, Vancouver and San Jose in its most recent games. Those are four Cup contenders and there's no question that they'll be amped up for this one. Overlay. Play: Edmonton +151 (Risking 2 units).

PHOENIX +127 over Detroit +254

We'll play this in regulation only because Detroit is undefeated in the shootout this year. For the Red Wings, this is the final game of a tough four game trip (five, if you count the one before the break) that saw them play the first three in Calgary, Vancouver and Edmonton. They’ve picked up five of a possible six points thus far and they return home after this one for a six-game home stand. For the Coyotes, this is anything but another game. The Red Wings are a strong draw, meaning that the arena won't be half empty like it usually is. The Coyotes have lost seven in a row to the Red Wings and they have to be sick of losing to them. One of those losses occurred just a couple of weeks ago in OT. The Coyotes catch the Red Wings in a vulnerable spot. Detroit is also without Jimmy Howard for a couple of weeks and that makes a big difference, as Ty Conklin and/or Joey MacDonald are not the same high calibre goaltender as Howard. The Coyotes have two wins in their past three games over Ottawa and San Jose and those are definitely confidence boosters. Look for them to carry that over here, as they go all out against what might very well be a semi-interested visitor. Play: Phoenix +127 (Risking 2 units).

+54.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers

Toronto -101 over WINNIPEG Pinnacle  -202
In a letdown spot last night, the Maple Leafs fell behind early and then awoke in time for a rather easy 6-3 victory. Toronto has now won three in a row and five of six with only loss over that span being that bizarre and unlikely one against the Penguins. The Buds have scored four or more goals in four of their past five and they've scored 11 times in their past two. For the first time in a very long time, the Maple Leafs can smell the playoffs. This is confident team that is on a roll and very dangerous at the moment. Despite playing the second game in two nights, winning is much less physically draining than losing and Toronto can't wait to get back on the ice. Winnipeg returns home from a six-game trip that saw them play on the road twice before the break and four times after it. They’ve scored two goals or less in every game of that trip, went 2-4 with the wins occurring in OT and they were held to 24 shots on net or less in the last five games. It's going to take a lot more than that to beat the ascending Leafs. Play: Toronto -101 (Risking 2.02 units to win 2).

Los Angeles +100 over TAMPA BAY Pinnacle  -200
Dwayne Roloson is the confirmed starter for the Lightning tonight. In 24 games this year, he has a 3.65 GAA, a .882 save percentage and hasn't played since January 21. For the Kings, it'll be Jonathan Quick and his 1.87 GAA and .934 save percentage. Based on that alone, the Kings are worthy of a bet here, as goaltending often decides the outcome. The Kings would be a huge threat with some more scoring. It's no secret that their Achilles Heel all season has been a lack of production. However, the Bolts are not strong defensively and you can count on L.A. attacking with everything they have against a vulnerable 42-year-old, fragile netminder. Tampa Bay could get caught looking ahead to an upcoming three games in four nights road trip against the Rangers, Buffalo and Pittsburgh this coming Thursday, Saturday and Sunday respectively. Play: Los Angeles +100 (Risking 2 units).

New Jersey +150 over N.Y. RANGERS Pinnacle  +300
The Devils remain the Rodney Dangerfield’s of the NHL. They keep getting offered these ridiculous prices and they keep rewarding their backers. New Jersey has won four straight since the break. They beat the Rangers, Philly, Montreal and Pittsburgh. They had a 6-0 lead on Philadelphia and beat the Pens 5-2. They scored four goals or more in all of the above, yet they keep being offered prices that you would find on teams like Calgary and the Islanders. Yes, they have goaltending issues and yes the Rangers are one of the best. However, the Devils can match anyone outside of goal, they're popping in goals at an eye-opening rate and they deserve much more credit than this. We're not always in the business of predicting the outcome of games. We're commonly in the business of finding value and letting the chips fall where they may. With this quality team and what is being offered, this one surely fits. Play: New Jersey +150 (Risking 2 units).

OTTAWA +107 over St. Louis Pinnacle  -200
Ottawa is in a funk with six straight losses but one was in OT and three others were by a single goal. In other words, with a couple of bounces they could easily be 3-3 or even 4-2 over that span. The point is, they're the same team that was winning games earlier. They've just hit a little snag in the road. The Senators are not hanging their heads. They're competing with the same fire they've had all season and such diligence does not go unrewarded for long. Much of the focus here is on Blues goalie Brian Elliott, who played in Ottawa for 3½ years before signing with St. Louis this season. He never stood out for a second in his time as a Senator. This year though, he's an all-star and surely wants to have an impact upon his return to Ottawa. However, the Blues are just 2-5-2 in their past nine road games and 8-11-3 overall. The Blue Notes have scored one goal in five of their past seven games and that serious lack of production does not warrant them being chalk on the road. Finally, St. Louis has lost the last five matchups in Ottawa while not scoring more than two goals in any contest and this one isn't likely to be any different. Play: Ottawa +107 (Risking 2 units).

Vancouver +109 over NASHVILLE Pinnacle  +218
The Canucks are almost always worth a look when taking back a tag and we certainly make no exception here. The Canucks are third in the NHL in points and they've picked up points in five straight and 14 of their past 17 games. The real kicker here is that they could also be in Pekka Rinne's kitchen. In two games this year against Nashville, Rinne was yanked both times after allowing four goals on 16 shots in the first game and five goals on 18 shots in the second. There's not a lot more to say other than reiteracting that we get one of the NHL's elite teams that is always tough to beat and we're taking back a tag against a goaltender they've owned this season. Play: Vancouver +109 (Risking 2 units).

-84.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

Winnipeg +160 over WASHINGTON  +320

The difference between the Capitals and Jets is far too minimal to have either favored in this price range. Just four points separates them in the standings and they've split four games this season. Washington's two wins over Winnipeg came by scores of 1-0 and 4-3 in OT. If this game were in Winnipeg, the Jets would not be favored by this much. Since the break, the Caps are 2-3 with wins coming over the reeling Habs and sinking Panthers. Washington has an outstanding record at home but we expect a correction in its home record down the stretch, as the Capitals’ home record is not a true representation of what they are. The Jets come in healthier than they've been in a while. Dustin Byfulglien and Evander Kane are both key contributors and both are back. The Jets are coming off a solid 2-1 win over the Maple Leafs. They've won three of five games since the break and that includes stealing one in Philly. The Jets are five points out of the eighth and final playoff spot. They can't afford to lose more ground, both in the division and conference. With the division up for grabs and the automatic playoff entry that accompanies it, the Jets have to perform well in pivotal spots such as this one. The Jets figure to go toe-to-toe with this foe and at this price, we get tremendous value. Play: Winnipeg +160 (Risking 2 units).

OTTAWA +120 over Nashville +240

In terms of situational betting in the NHL, it really doesn't get much better than this for the Senators. They're hanging onto the final playoff spot and need to snap this ugly funk in the worst way. They'll be ready. The Predators are coming off that hard-fought OT loss to one of their biggest rivals, the Vancouver Canucks. They've played in Ottawa once since 2007 and barely know this team exists. Yeah there's the Mike Fisher connection but so what. Fisher has a new pair of blue suede skates and is very happy being with his wife (Carrie Underwood) in Nashville. After this game the Preds head to Boston to play the champs followed by two games against their other two biggest rivals, Chicago and Detroit. In summarizing, this game in Ottawa for the Preds' falls right in between three games against their three biggest rivals, not to mention a trip to Boston. 82 games is a marathon and no club is immune from being flat from time to time as we expect Nashville to be here. The Senators cannot afford to be. Play: Ottawa +120 (Risking 2 units).

PHOENIX -½ +110 over Calgary  +220

You're not going to find us laying pucks very often in the final quarter of the season because there are too many regulation ties to warrant it. However, everything about this game heavily favors the Coyotes and we'll take a confident position as a result. Phoenix is coming off a crucial, three-game in four nights set that saw them beat San Jose, Detroit and Dallas. They outscored that trio 12-5. They've had a full days rest, they got themselves right back into the thick of the playoff race (tied for eighth) and they couldn't have handpicked a better time to play the Flames. Calgary played last night in San Jose and won 4-3. They also played Tuesday in Anaheim and lost in OT. The Anaheim-San Jose-Phoenix trip is one of the more difficult three game sets of the season. Calgary will do it in four days. After picking up three out of a possible four points, they'll go with rarely used back-up goaltender Leland Irving here before hosting Vancouver on Saturday night. This is low hanging fruit that is very ripe for the picking. Play: Phoenix -½ +110 (Risking 2 units).

+780.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers NHL

N.Y. ISLANDERS +105 over Los Angeles Pinnacle -200
The Kings play their fifth straight on the road here and in three of those games they scored one goal or less. That's not a good recipe for playing chalk on the road. Their one win on this trip was in Tampa Bay but losses to Carolina and Florida are inexcusable. The Kings’ lack of production and resulting frustration has not been rectified. Defensively, L.A. is one of the best teams in the league, which has been its saving grace. However, when you have to rely on your goaltender to keep coming up big in order to win, it’s an added pressure and it makes it difficult to be slotted in the favourite’s role. The Islanders picked up points in five straight games before losing to the Canadiens in their most recent. They remain a tough out for any opposing team because of their balanced scoring, current run and the suddenly hot goaltending of Evgeni Nabokov. Also note that this game is a 1:00 PM EST start and for the Kings, that's highly unusual. Wrong side favored. Play: N.Y. Islanders +105 (Risking 2 units).

Nashville +140 over BOSTON Pinnacle  -200
1:00 PM EST. The Bruins’ Stanley Cup hangover has occurred much later than expected but it has arrived. Boston has dropped three of its last four games and was outscored 11-1 in the process. That's one goal in three games against Buffalo, Carolina and Buffalo. Now Tim Thomas is being hounded by the media for all his political statements since not showing up at the Whitehouse and instead of letting it fade away, Thomas made more political statements on his Facebook page recently. All this coincides with the Bruins funk and while it may not mean anything, one can't ignore the distractions it has caused and what affect that it's having. Conversely, the Predators are as sound as can be. They're strong defensively, they're scoring goals, they have an outstanding netminder and they rarely endure any prolonged slumps. Nashville had won five straight before losses to Philly and Vancouver in OT and that's nothing to hang one's head over. They've still picked up points in two of their past four games and that includes a 3-1 win over the NHL's hottest team, the St. Louis Blues. The Preds are always a live pup. Against a suddenly fragile B's club, the Preds offer up some strong value here. Play: Nashville +140 (Risking 2 units).

Chicago +101 over PHOENIX Pinnacle  -200
This selection has nothing to do with the “due” factor as that is an angle we don't subscribe to. It has everything to do with the Blackhawks being a high quality club that has to be sick of losing. The Blackhawks’ annual prolonged trip is turning into a nightmare after losing in San Jose 5-3 last night and running their streak to seven straight losses. A game against the Coyotes couldn't have come at a better time. Playing in Phoenix is like playing in a mausoleum. There's no atmosphere whatsoever, as the building is three-quarters empty and it's demoralizing for a host club to endure that. Phoenix has won four in a row but we're not buying it for a second. They didn't outplay any of those clubs but instead got very lucky in wins over Detroit, Calgary, Dallas and San Jose. That has their stock inflated. Now the Coyotes will host a ravenous beast that hasn't eaten in almost three weeks. The superior club digs down deep here. Play: Chicago +101 (Risking 2 units).

Montreal +129 over TORONTO Pinnacle  +258
The Canadiens are playing better than they have all season with three straight wins over Winnipeg, Pittsburgh and the Islanders. They also had a strong showing in a 5-3 loss in New Jersey prior to that but the Devils had four of the most bizarre goals in one game that you'll ever see. The real kicker here is that the Maple Leafs will retire Mats Sundin's jersey tonight. This is an angle we love. The host will stand around for 45 minutes on their own blue line while the Habs will be sitting in the dressing room getting properly prepared. These ceremonies look nice for TV and all but they are a big hindrance to the host. Along with everything else, there is Ron Wilson's stubbornness to go with the lesser James Reimer in net over Jonas Gustavsson. Reimer has been inconsistent and can look shaky in net while Gustavsson's form is sharp. Carey Price is among the best and is playing like it. Toronto has dropped two straight and can feel the pressure of hanging onto that final playoff spot. Current form and goaltending edge both go to the Canadiens. Play: Montreal +129 (Risking 2 units).

-342.00

[pokerstar]

Sports Wagers NHL

N.Y. ISLANDERS +105 over Los Angeles Pinnacle  +210
The Kings play their fifth straight on the road here and in three of those games they scored one goal or less. That's not a good recipe for playing chalk on the road. Their one win on this trip was in Tampa Bay but losses to Carolina and Florida are inexcusable. The Kings’ lack of production and resulting frustration has not been rectified. Defensively, L.A. is one of the best teams in the league, which has been its saving grace. However, when you have to rely on your goaltender to keep coming up big in order to win, it’s an added pressure and it makes it difficult to be slotted in the favourite’s role. The Islanders picked up points in five straight games before losing to the Canadiens in their most recent. They remain a tough out for any opposing team because of their balanced scoring, current run and the suddenly hot goaltending of Evgeni Nabokov. Also note that this game is a 1:00 PM EST start and for the Kings, that's highly unusual. Wrong side favored. Play: N.Y. Islanders +105 (Risking 2 units).

Nashville +140 over BOSTON Pinnacle -200
1:00 PM EST. The Bruins’ Stanley Cup hangover has occurred much later than expected but it has arrived. Boston has dropped three of its last four games and was outscored 11-1 in the process. That's one goal in three games against Buffalo, Carolina and Buffalo. Now Tim Thomas is being hounded by the media for all his political statements since not showing up at the Whitehouse and instead of letting it fade away, Thomas made more political statements on his Facebook page recently. All this coincides with the Bruins funk and while it may not mean anything, one can't ignore the distractions it has caused and what affect that it's having. Conversely, the Predators are as sound as can be. They're strong defensively, they're scoring goals, they have an outstanding netminder and they rarely endure any prolonged slumps. Nashville had won five straight before losses to Philly and Vancouver in OT and that's nothing to hang one's head over. They've still picked up points in two of their past four games and that includes a 3-1 win over the NHL's hottest team, the St. Louis Blues. The Preds are always a live pup. Against a suddenly fragile B's club, the Preds offer up some strong value here. Play: Nashville +140 (Risking 2 units).

Chicago +101 over PHOENIX Pinnacle-200
This selection has nothing to do with the “due” factor as that is an angle we don't subscribe to. It has everything to do with the Blackhawks being a high quality club that has to be sick of losing. The Blackhawks’ annual prolonged trip is turning into a nightmare after losing in San Jose 5-3 last night and running their streak to seven straight losses. A game against the Coyotes couldn't have come at a better time. Playing in Phoenix is like playing in a mausoleum. There's no atmosphere whatsoever, as the building is three-quarters empty and it's demoralizing for a host club to endure that. Phoenix has won four in a row but we're not buying it for a second. They didn't outplay any of those clubs but instead got very lucky in wins over Detroit, Calgary, Dallas and San Jose. That has their stock inflated. Now the Coyotes will host a ravenous beast that hasn't eaten in almost three weeks. The superior club digs down deep here. Play: Chicago +101 (Risking 2 units).

Montreal +129 over TORONTO Pinnacle+258
The Canadiens are playing better than they have all season with three straight wins over Winnipeg, Pittsburgh and the Islanders. They also had a strong showing in a 5-3 loss in New Jersey prior to that but the Devils had four of the most bizarre goals in one game that you'll ever see. The real kicker here is that the Maple Leafs will retire Mats Sundin's jersey tonight. This is an angle we love. The host will stand around for 45 minutes on their own blue line while the Habs will be sitting in the dressing room getting properly prepared. These ceremonies look nice for TV and all but they are a big hindrance to the host. Along with everything else, there is Ron Wilson's stubbornness to go with the lesser James Reimer in net over Jonas Gustavsson. Reimer has been inconsistent and can look shaky in net while Gustavsson's form is sharp. Carey Price is among the best and is playing like it. Toronto has dropped two straight and can feel the pressure of hanging onto that final playoff spot. Current form and goaltending edge both go to the Canadiens. Play: Montreal +129 (Risking 2 units).

+68

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

San Jose +110 over ST. LOUIS  -200.00

Brian Elliott started for the Blues last night so there's a good chance Jaroslav Halak goes here. When betting against the Blue Notes, it's preferred that Halak is in net. If he's not, so be it, as St. Louis plays it third game in four days and tail end of back-to-backs. The Blue have a sick 22-3-4 home record, which is second to the Red Wings 22-2-1 home mark, yet the Red Wings are -160 tonight over Philly. Right off the bat that tells us that the odds makers give the Sharks a big chance here. The Blues should not be as dominant at home as they have been and as a result, a correction in their home record is likely forthcoming. St. Louis has beaten the Sharks in both games this year and it's just so tough to beat the same team three times in succession, especially quality teams like the Sharks. Now San Jose will embark on a nine-game trip and the first game of an extended trip is usually the one that sets the tone for the entire journey. The Sharks have scored three goals or more in five straight, they're in a better scheduling situation and the line strongly suggests they'll win it or take it to OT. Play: San Jose +110 (Risking 2 units).

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS   NHL

Carolina +145 over MONTREAL +290

The Canadiens are playing much better lately. They're on a four-game winning streak in which they outscored the opposition 15-4. They're coming off that convincing 5-0 victory in Toronto on Saturday night and all this has them overpriced. The Habs are still the same team they were two weeks ago. They had 18 shots on net Saturday and scored five times. Two others wins came against Winnipeg and the Islanders, the former at home. Montreal has its biggest rivals on deck, the Bruins on Wednesday, thus, this game is sandwiched betweeen Toronto and Boston. Carolina comes in rested and having picked up points in eight of its past nine games. The Canes are healthy, they're playing their best hockey of the season and there's no question that they're being undervalued here against a Montreal club in an unfavorable spot. We're going to play this one in regulation only because the Canes have lost five straight in extra time. Play: Carolina +145 (Risking 2 units).

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers NHL

N.Y. Rangers +123 over BOSTON Pinnacle  +246
The Bruins haven't won back to back games in over a month. They're coming off that 4-3 OT win over Nashville in a game they played well in but still needed a goal in the final minute to send it into OT. Boston has allowed five goals or more in three of its last eight and three or more goals in six of those. The B's are still not right while the Rangers are legit Cup contenders. The Rangers are in every game. They don't lose often and they don't trail in the game often either. New York has won seven of nine with both losses over that span coming against the Devils, 1-0 and 4-3 in OT. To give you an idea of how consistently good the Blue Shirts have been, consider that they have not lost consecutive games since December 13 and 15. Since then, they've won 19 of 25 games. The Rangers have beaten the B's once this year already. They also beat them both times they met last season. At the moment the Rangers are in better form and they have a big edge in net with Henrik Lundqvist over the suddenly shaky Tim Thomas. Play: New York +123 (Risking 2 units).
 
Dallas +185 over DETROIT Pinnacle  -200
The Red Wings will go for an NHL record 21st straight win at home after tying the record against Philly on Sunday. In the past 48 hours, there has been intense media coverage and nobody want to talk to the Stars. They all want to talk with Red Wings players and that has them thinking more than they should be. Especially undrafted goaltender Joey MacDonald. A 32-year old career minor leaguer, MacDonald has appeared in just 26 NHL games. He was called up to backup Ty Conklin so he was a backup to a backup. Granted, he's played well in three games since Conklin was yanked but there's added pressure here. The Stars will come in with nothing to lose. They're expected to go down in defeat. However, they know this team well. Despite losing both games to Detroit this season, Dallas was in a position to win them both, as they lost 5-4 in the first meeting and 3-2 in OT in the second. The Stars will give it everything they have in an attempt to prevent the Red Wings from doing what the Montreal Canadiens, Edmonton Oilers and New York Islanders dynasties could not. Play: Dallas +185 (Risking 2 units).

BUFFALO -108 over New Jersey Pinnacle  -216
The Devils have lost two in a row and at least one or perhaps both were due to poor goaltending. Both Martin Brodeur and Johan Hedberg have two of the worst save percentages in the league. . Brodeur's, the lower of the two (.899) is the confirmed starter here. The Devils can dominate a game and still lose, as they did against these same Sabres before the break when they outshot them 28-14 and lost in OT. We see in the Chicago Blackhawks what can happen to a good team with poor goaltending. It deflates and demoralizes a club. They lose games they should have won and it takes it's toll over time. The Blackhawks have lost eight straight because of lousy goaltending and unless New Jersey addresss this, they're not going anywhere this year. Meanwhile, something happened over the all-star break to the Sabres. They woke up. They've picked up points in five of six games since the break. Included over that span is two shutout wins over Boston (6-0) and the Rangers (1-0). The Sabres are to the NHL this season what Philadelphia was to the NFL. Huge talent and nothing to show for it so far but again, this sleeping dog has awoken and they're very dangerous right now. Play: Buffalo -108 (Risking 2.16 units to win 2).

-170.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

Ottawa +119 over FLORIDA  +238

The Panthers have started winning again after going through a long stretch of mediocrity. Prior to its current three-game winning streak in which they've outscored their opponenets 10-3, Florida had won just eight of its last 24 games. Even during this modest streak, they've been anything but dominating. They were outshot in all three games and mustered just 19, 20 and 23 shots on net respectively. Florida is missing three key defensemen in Jason Garrison, Ed Jovanovski and Dmitry Kulikov. They're a hard-working club and they're never an easy out but they're a lot more appealing taking back a tag as oppose to laying one. The Senators are back on track with five out of a possible six points in their past three. They played last night in Tampa and crusied to a 4-0 victory. Lastly, the Sens own this foe. They've beaten them twice this season and they've beaten them in eight straight now. Nothing suggests this one will be any different. Play: Ottawa +119 (Risking 2 units).

Toronto +107 over EDMONTON  -200

The Leafs losing streak hit four games last night after a 5-1 defeat in Calgary. Toronto has been oputscored in their past two games by an ugly count of 10-1. Goaltending has become the biggest issue, as James Reimer has been shaky and Jonas Gustavsson doesn't perform well under pressure. Note to Ron Wilson - when Reimer was out and Gustavsson knew he was going to be the everyday goaltender, he was brilliant. Despite losing its last two, the Leafs still created many scoring chances. They ran into two hot goaltenders in Carey Price and Mikka Kirprusoff last night. Tonight it's likely going to be Nikolai Khabibulin for the Oilers so you can expect the Maple Leafs to bury a few pucks here. The Oilers return home from a three-game trip to Toronto, Detroit and Ottawa. They went 1-2 on said trip and that inlcludes a 6-3 loss in Toronto. Like Florida, Edmonton is just so much more appealing as a dog. In the favorite's roll, they've won just six of its past 24 games and that stat alone tells us that betting against them when they're favored is a winning proposition over time. Play: Toronto +107 (Risking 2 units).

+38.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

Buffalo +148 over PHILADELPHIA -200

The Flyers have one win in their past six games. They allowed five goals or more in three of those losses and four goals in one other. Philadelphia's road record (18-9-2) is much better than its home record (13-9-5) and when you throw in the long list of injuries to key players, you just can't lay this much weight with them right now. Then we have Ryan Miller against either Ilya Bryzgalov or Sergei Bobrovsky. Whomever the Flyers decide to go with, it's not going to favor them, as both their goaltenders are a soft goal waiting to happen. The Sabres and Flyers have played twice in Buffalo this season. Philly won them both by a single goal with one occuring in OT. Buffalo came out of the all-star break blazing. They've cooled off with back-to-back losses but there's no reason they can't get back on track here. When you consider Philly's injury woes, goaltending issues, current form and that they have the Penguins on deck on Saturday, the Sabres offer up the true value in this contest. Play: Buffalo +148 (Risking 2 units).

Winnipeg +105 over MINNESOTA +210

Make a list of the 30 teams in the NHL. Now grade them 1 through 30 on which you would trust as a favorite all the way to the team you would least trust. Number 30 on just about everyone's list shouyld be the Minnesota Wild. The Wild has dropped six straight. They scored one goal in five of those six games and two goals in the other. That's seven goals in their past six games. Minnesota has five wins in its last 26 games. In 15 of those they scored one goal or less. In terms of futility, the NHL has not seen a team this offensively challenged in a long, long time. The Jets come in here healthy and with four wins in their last eight. They've won three of their past five on the road with victories in Philly, Washington and Tampa. The Jets are coming off back-to-back losses in Pittsburgh and Long Island but deserved a better fate against the Islanders. The Jets are in jeopardy of falling out of this thing, as they now sit six points out of the final playoff spot and seven points behind Florida for the division lead. This is a game they need in the worst way. Win or lose, expect a strong effort from this guest against the most beatable team in the NHL right now. Play: Winnipeg +105 (Risking 2 units).

Calgary +114 over DALLAS -200

Dallas has two wins over its last six games. Those two wins came against Columbus and Minnesota. The Stars have four wins in their past 14 games and the other two wins over that span both came against the Ducks. Frankly, there's absolutely nothing appealing about laying juice with Dallas. Its goaltending is shaky just about every game, they're offensively challenged and it sure doesn't help that the arena is half empty. Meanwhile, the Flames have found a winning formula. They've picked up points in six straight with four wins and two OT losses. So, while the Stars have have beaten the Jackets and Wild, Calgary's last four wins have come against Chicago, San Jose, Vancouver and Toronto. Getting Alex Tanguay back has been a huge boost for the Flames offense and they're now just a point behind the Coyotes for the final playoff spot. That playoff push continues here. Play: Calgary +114 (Risking 2 units).

-190

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

Anaheim +119 over NEW JERSEY  -200

The Ducks are 17-11-5 since Bruce Boudreau took over but they're 14-2-3 with a league-leading 31 points since Jan. 6. Anaheim is once again getting outstanding goaltending from Jonas Hiller. Two years ago, Hiller was considered one of the best in the game but he missed a large portion of games last season and was rather average at the start of this one. He's since regained that form from two seasons ago. Martin Brodeur starts for the Devils. If you read this section regularly, there's nothing more to say. The Devils, too, are hot. They've won six of eight and the top line is once again scoring at a torrid pace. New Jersey is a top-tiered team whose only weakness is in goal. That makes them unappealing as the chalk against the hottest team in the NHL. It's also worth noting that the Devils rarely see the Ducks and could be looking ahead to a pair of upcoming games in Montreal and Toronto. Play: Anaheim +119 (Risking 2 units).

Montreal +110 over BUFFALO  +220

The Sabres are back to playing the same poor way they were playing prior to the break. Buffalo is desperately lacking desire, discipline and the intangibles it takes to win at this level. Since a modest run just after the all-star break, the Sabres have lost three in a row and have been outscored 13-4. They had a 2-0 lead in Philly last night after one period and lost 7-2. A disheartened Buffalo bunch will now play its third game in four days after winning just eight of its last 26 games. The Canadiens come in losers of two straight. They've lost six consecutive games to this rival and that has to be eating away at them. There are no excuses for losing to them again, as they catch the Sabres demoralized and in a difficult scheduling spot. Montreal had won four straight before losing back-to-back games to Carolina and Boston. However, they rallied from two down against the B's to pick up a point and send that game to OT. As a result, the Canadiens have picked up points in five of their last six games. Expect another strong effort here in an attempt to end their recent woes against this fragile host. Play: Montreal +110 (Risking 2 units).

+20.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS NHL

Anaheim +105 over +210

In its most important game of the year hosting Washington on Friday night, the Panthers were outshot 41-23 and lost 2-1. In its last three wins, Florida managed 23, 20 and 19 shots on net. The Panthers are creating less scoring chances than just about anyone over the past month and things don't figure to get better until they get a whole slew of healthy bodies back. Three of Florida's top d-men remain out and it shows, as their makeshift defense is not moving out of the zone in an efficient manner. This offensively challenged team will now have to face one of the hottest goaltenders in the game in Jonas Hiller and the hottest team in the league too. The Ducks come in on a 14-2-3 run. They were robbed in New Jersey on Friday night when a goal in OT was overturned, not to mention two goalposts in OT and one in the shootout. That's not sitting well with them and they'll be ready to take it out on the Panthers. Despite that loss, the Ducks are playing outstanding hockey under Bruce Boudreau and have picked up points in eight straight. As a result of their hot streak, suddenly a playoff birth is a reachable goal and it's doubtful the Panthers get in the way. Play: Anaheim +105 (Risking 2 units).

Boston -½ -108 over MINNESOTA -216

You've heard of dead man walking. Well, this is dead team skating here, as the NHL has not seen futility like this Wild bunch in a long, long time. Minnesota lost to St. Louis yesterday 4-0. They've scored one goal or less in six of its last eight games. Its only win over that span was a 1-0 victory over Colorado. In 16 of its last 27 games, Minnesota has scored one goal or less. A Junior-A team could produce more than that. They managed 13 shots on net yesterday. Now the Wild will play their third game in four days and tail end of back-to-backs. They also picked the wrong time to face the Bruins. Boston has just three wins in its last eight games and as a result, its stock is low. It's for that reason we get such a favorable line. However, the score doesn't always tell the story. Despite going 3-3 in its last six, Boston has not been outplayed in any of them. They completely dominated the Rangers in that 3-0 loss. Against Montreal and Winnipeg, both on the road, they played two strong games and deserved more than the two points. The best news is that the Bruins are not feeling complacent. They're taking some heat from the press and that's a good thing, as they'll come in here determined not to lose to this sick host. This is a mismatch of mammoth proportions and frankly, we can't see how the Bruins don't dominate from start to finish against a tired, demoralized and talentless group. Play: Boston -½ -108 (Risking 2.16 units to win 2).

-6.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers NHL

Ottawa +100 over N.Y. ISLANDERS Pinnacle  +200.00
1:00 PM EST. For teams in playoff contention, every game from here on out has added significance. The Islanders have a game in hand on the Maple Leafs and two games in hand on the Jets. Those are the two teams they're going to have to leapfrog over to reach the dance and it could happen, as they're just six points behind each. That said, the Islanders are the third lowest scoring team in the league with only the Kings and Jackets having scored less. Over their last seven games, the Islanders have scored two or less five times. There's also the possibility that Evgeni Nabokov may not go, as he recovers from the flu. By contrast, the Senators are one of the highest scoring teams. They've lit the lamp 10 times in their past two games, beating the defensive minded Panthers and Lightning by scores of 4-0 and 6-2 respectively. Ottawa is four points ahead of the Leafs and Jets and could add some much needed distance here. We catch a healthy Sens club at even money, with a spring in their step and well-rested after having five full days rest. Play: Ottawa +100 (Risking 2 units).

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers

Los Angeles +102 over PHOENIX  -200

The Coyotes have picked up points in eight straight, including wins over Anaheim, Detroit, San Jose, Chicago and more recently a 1-0 win over these same Kings in L.A. Phoenix is a prime example of what hard work and sticking to your system can do for slightly better than average teams. The Coyotes have decent talent up front while defensively, Keith Yandle might be the NHL's best kept secret. If Yandle played in a different market, he would have star status. Still, Phoenix has scored just four goals in its last three games. Four of its last five games have been decided by a single goal. Tight games are more the rule than the exception and as a team, they are a better pooch than a favorite. For L.A., being on the road is probably a good thing. They're coming off a difficult pair of 1-0 losses at home. Goaltending is not their issue. If they can pop two or three in a game, they stand a good chance of winning. These two have played five times this season and the Kings have gone 3-2 with two of those games going into OT. They're neck and neck in the standings and with two crucial points up for grabs, the tag makes the Kings the prudent choice against a team they have confidence against. Play: Los Angeles +102 (Risking 2 units).

NASHVILLE +107 over Vancouver  +214

The Canucks’ stock is soaring, especially after a weekend in which they blew out both Toronto and Edmonton by scores of 6-2 and 5-2 respectively. The Predators are not defensively sloppy like the Leafs or Oilers. Nashville is sound in all areas. Two weeks ago they went into Vancouver and lost 4-3 in OT. This past Friday they were a shot away from ending the Red Wings home winning streak in a game that was decided with just five seconds remaining in regulation. The Preds have recent wins over St. Louis and Chicago, not once but three times. Additionally, the Preds are 18-7-4 at home and offer up great value as a dog in their own building. These two are rivals. They met in last year's playoffs and they see one another often. In other words, playing in or against Nashville is nothing new for the Canucks. We mention this because Vancouver plays in Detroit on Thursday and that's Detroit’s next home game. No doubt, Vancouver is looking forward to that game with a chance to do something that no other team has since November 3. With that one on deck and after two easy wins, this one has trouble written all over it for the visiting Canucks. Play: Nashville +107 (Risking 2 units).

New Jersey -106 over TORONTO  +200

The Devils remain one of the hottest and most undervalued teams in the league. We've been saying all season that this team should have the same elite status as any, yet they don't. All they've done is pick up points in 10 of their last 11 games to tie Boston for second place in the conference. They can adapt to the flow of a game allowing them to win low scoring or shootout contests. The Leafs are feeling the pressure of a playoff race in a hot market. They return home from that difficult Western Canada three-game trip in which they surrendered 14 goals. If the Leafs miss the playoffs, you can blame coach Ron Wilson for trying to make James Reimer the #1 goaltender when Jonas Gustavsson was clearly the better option. Reimer was a four-month flash in the pan a season ago. He was a backup goaltender in the minors. For some strange reason, Wilson has leaned heavily on him instead of going with a hot Gustavsson. Perhaps the light has gone on as The Monster is the confirmed starter tonight as he attempts to clean Wilson's mess. No matter who is between the pipes right now, the Leafs are a fragile team that has just one win in OT against the Oilers in their past six games. Asking them to beat the Devils under these circumstances is an order the Buds are unlikely to fill right now. Play: New Jersey -106 (Risking 2.12 units to win 2).

+214.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

OTTAWA -½ +120 over Washington  +240

There are so many things to like about the Senators here with the least of them being that they're vastly superior to the Capitals. Most notably, current form heavily favors the Sens as well. Ottawa has won three in a row, all on the road, and outscored its opponents over that span 16-2. They've picked up points in five straight with four wins and an OT loss. By contrast, Washington has two wins in its last eight games. Both wins came against the sinking Panthers. After beating Florida 2-1 on Friday, the Caps subsequently lost to Tampa Bay and Carolina, not exactly the cream of the crop, by a combined score of 7-1. The Southeast division is so weak that the Capitals could actually finish 12th out of 15 teams in the conference and still make the playoffs by winning the division. Right now, they sit in third place just two points behind Winnipeg and Florida but they continue to lose crucial games to middle of the pack clubs. They’ll step up in class here against these hugely undervalued Senators. Few want to believe this host is as good as their record may indicate but truth be told, Ottawa is a solid club. They keep on winning and the wins are becoming more lopsided than before. The best news is that the Sens are 0-3 against Washington this season and that's a complete aberration that is going to correct itself here. Play Ottawa -½ +120 (Risking 2 units).

Boston +117 over ST. LOUIS +234

We all heard the “what's wrong with the Blackhawks” chants during Chicago's ugly nine-game slide until it stopped after the Blackhawks defeated the Rangers, Blues and Red Wings in three successive games. Chicago went through a rough stretch, as every team does during the course of 82 games and now the Bruins are enduring their own. Truth is, there's nothing wrong with Boston either. Sure, they've lost two in a row, three of four and they've played around .500 hockey for approximately six weeks but a closer look reveals that things are not as bad as they seem. That 2-0 loss on Sunday to Minnesota is one of the more misleading scores of the season, as Boston fired 50 shots on net, while Niklas Backstrom stood on his head. That recent 3-0 loss to the Rangers saw Boston completely dominate and outshoot New York 42-20. The point is, they're playing as well right now as they were when they were ploughing through everyone. The Bruins have not let up and may in fact be playing harder than usual as they get into post-season mode. The results will come and there's no reason it can't start here. The Blues are having a tremendous year. However, they're just 2-2 in their last four and three of those games came against Columbus, Minnesota and the Islanders. However, this one isn't about wagering against the Blue Notes. It's all about taking back a price on one of the NHL's elite teams that the marketplace is misreading. Play: Boston +117 (Risking 2 units).

+474.00

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers

San Jose -½ +142 over TORONTO (REG) Pinnacle  +284.00
The game of netminder musical chairs continues, as Ron Wilson is going back to James Reimer here after Jonas Gustavsson allowed three soft goals in his last game. This is not the right approach coming down the stretch with playoff hopes hanging by a thread. When Chicago was labouring, they stuck with Corey Crawford. When the Ducks couldn't win a game and Jonas Hiller was struggling, they stuck with him and now he's among the hottest goaltenders in the league. When we look at teams that are not sticking with one guy, (Columbus, Washington, Edmonton, Minnesota and the Islanders) we see a bunch of clubs that will be golfing in April. James Reimer is not NHL material. He's a far worse option than Gustavsson. Most notably, the uncertainty at the position has both these Leaf goaltenders “playing scared”. That doesn’t bode well against an offensively gifted and talented Sharks squad coming off a 6-3 loss in Columbus. The Sharks rarely get to play in hockey's hotbed and they'll certainly be amped up to do so. Additionally, the Sharks arrive in a foul mood after losing their fourth straight and their playoff position not nearly as secure as it was two weeks ago. Both teams are fragile right now but the difference is that the Leafs have just one OT win over Edmonton in their past seven and will now rely again on a backup minor-league goaltender to bail them out. Let’s fade that. Play: San Jose -½ +142 (Risking 2 units).

[TheGame]

Sports Wagers NHL 1172.00 Run last 4 days

Montreal +118 over WASHINGTON Pinnacle  -200
The Capitals return home from a four-game trip with one win and three losses. They won the opener over Florida and subsequently lost to Tampa, Carolina and Ottawa, not exactly a difficult trip. Yet the Caps scored a total of five times in those four games. Over the final two games they were outscored 10-2. A response to that lame-effort trip is to be expected here but they may not be capable. Michael Neuvirth gets the start and it's his first home start since Dale Hunter took over. Alex Ovechkin insists he's playing but could be more of a liability than an asset. He’s nowhere near 100% and that doesn’t bode well for a guy that tries to do everything on his own. Montreal comes in with one of the NHL's best goaltenders. Despite losing their last two, the Habs have picked up points in six of nine games. Montreal will also be looking for a big response against a team they're 0-3 against this year and have not scored a single goal against. The Capitals are simply a team that is fading away badly. The desire is gone and the talent isn't far behind. Play: Montreal +118 (Risking 2 units).

COLUMBUS +114 over Colorado  -200

The NHL trade deadline is this coming Monday and it's no secret that somebody is going to get traded to Columbus. Few hope it is them. There are many scouts at the Jackets’ games these days and every opposing player, whether it's consciously or subconsciously, does not want to stick out to said scouts. In other words they don't want to play well against the Jackets for fear of getting traded there. When we look at recent history, we see the Jackets picking up three out of a possible four points over San Jose and the Rangers. When we look at last year's three games before the trade deadline, we see the Jackets beating Nashville 4-0, Phoenix 5-3 and losing in Nashville 3-2 in a game that the Preds scored with 1:00 to go to win it. Coupled with the fact that the Avalanche aren’t exactly killing it, this one lines up well. The Avs just finished a four-game trip with one win. The lone victory was against the Kings and was just their fourth win in a month. In a game that they few players dare put their best foot forward, expect Colorado to be looking more for the exit doors as quickly as possible. Play: Columbus +114 (Risking 2 units).

-400.00

[TheGame]

SPORTS WAGERS

WINNIPEG +111 over St. Louis  -200

Barring a major collapse, the Blues are going to the playoffs this year for the first time in three seasons and just the second time since '03. The reason they're going is because of the NHL's second best home record, which sees the Blue Notes with just four regulation losses all year. Away from home is different and the Blues’ sub .500 road record does not warrant them being the chalk here. Only three times this year have the Blues won consecutive road games and they're coming off an OT win in Nashville. This venue is going to be crazy this afternoon, as the Jets start the day in first place in the Southeast for a #3 seed in the conference. The Jets’ 19 home wins are third in the NHL behind only Detroit and St. Louis. Winnipeg is currently on a season-long eight-game home stand. They've picked up seven out of a possible eight points in the first four games with wins over Tampa Bay, Colorado and Boston. In the other game, they lost to Philly in OT. The Jets have scored four goals or more in every one of those games and have scored four or more in five straight. That should bode well here against a Blues team that rarely wins when the opposition scores three or more. Wrong side favored. Play: Winnipeg +111 (Risking 2 units).

NASHVILLE -½ +130 over San Jose  +260

The Sharks will play their eighth straight road game here and will conclude their season long trip tomorrow in Minnesota. In the first six games of this journey they have two wins over two reeling teams, Washington and Toronto. They were clocked by the Jackets 6-3, they lost to Tampa Bay 6-5 and lost to Carolina as well. Against the Maple Leafs on Thursday, they were fortunate to hang on to that 2-1 win, after the entire third period was played in their own end. Frankly, San Jose looks awful. Play has been sloppy, goaltending is shaky and its defense appears to be lost out there. Nashville is not the team you want to be facing when you’re not at your best. The Predators play a sound brand of hockey and rarely beat themselves. They get outstanding goaltending, they have two of the league's premier d-men in Shea Weber and Ryan Suter and offensively, they're scoring goals. The Preds’ last five games have come against Chicago, Detroit, Dallas, Vancouver and St. Louis. They picked up points in four of those games with only miss being in Detroit when the Wings scored with five seconds remaining. The Sharks are widely perceived as being better than the Predators or at least on equal terms but that is a complete misconception. This is a great spot for the host to bury a fragile team playing its eighth successive road game. Play: Nashville -½ +130 (Risking 2 units).

+60.00