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I'm playing on LA. The Kings are rolling right now, playing their best hockey of the season. They've quietly been solid at home all season long. The Sens, on the other hand, have been terrible on the road all season long. While the Kings had yesterday off, the Sens were busy losing at Anaheim. They're 14-33 the past 2+ seasons, when playing the second of b2b games. Schedule and venue in their favor, look for the suddenly surging Kings to avenge an earlier loss at Ottawa. 

I'm playing on COLORADO. The Rangers are at the wrong place, at the wrong time. Having dropped three of four and looking to avenge an earlier loss at MSG, the Avs are angry. While the Rangers are 13-13 against teams from the West, the Avs are 20-10 against teams from the East. The last time that the Rangers played two games in two days, as they are here, they won the first by a score of 5-2 but lost the second by a score of 5-2. Last night, they won 4-2, while the Avs rested. The Rangers also won when these teams met at MSG last season. However, in the rematch here at Colorado, the Avs won by a score of 6-1. Schedule and venue in their favor, expect the Avs to get some payback tonight. 

I'm playing on EDMONTON. As of this writing, McDavid is a game-time decision. While I suspect that he will give it a go, I like the Oilers, with or without their superstar. The home team has already won both meetings so far this season. The Jets may be rolling but they're also 14-24 (-16.9) their last 38, when on a 3-game winning streak. That includes an 0-5 mark their last five in that situation. Look for the Oilers to cool them off here.

I'm playing on DALLAS. Both these teams are off divisional losses and both could really use a win. That said, the Stars arguably need it more. I expect them to be extremely hungry and playing on home ice, I expect them to have the advantage. The Rangers, who lost 6-4 last time out, are an ugly 29-46 (-13.9) the past 75 times that they were off a loss of two or more goals. During that span, the Rangers were also 28-47 (-14.9) when off a division game. Meanwhile, over the same period, the Stars were 52-35 (+11.3) when off a division game. With the Stars also a healthy 13-4 (+7.4) on the season, when playing with two day's rest in between games, look for the home fans to leave happy. 

I'm playing on VANCOUVER. The Jackets are a banged-up team right now. Thats going to make playing their second game in two days that much more difficult. Off last night's loss, the Jackets are now just 9-18 against teams from the West. One of those victories was against these same Canucks, just one week ago. That was at Columbus though. The Canucks were mired in a losing streak, at the end of a trip and playing the second of b2b games, while off a loss at Toronto the night before. (Some will recall that I successfully played against Vancouver in both those games.) The Canucks are a much better team at home and now they're coming off a win where they scored six goals. This time, they're the rested home team against a road weary visitor playing its second game in two days. Shoe on the other foot, its payback time.

I'm playing on SJ. Home ice has been significant when these teams have faced each other and I expect that to be the case again here. The Sharks may only be 17-17 (17-16-1) at home but thats much better than Ottawa's 6-25 (6-19-6) record on the road. The Sens won the earlier meeting, at Ottawa. The Sens have now beaten the Sharks three straight times and five of six, when the teams play in Canada. However, when they face each other in California, the Sharks are 2-0 the last two seasons, winning by a combined score of 9-1. While the Sens have scored 71 goals on the road, the Sharks have scored 100 here at home. Ottawa, off a 4-3 win, is just 6-14 after scoring four or more. While they've struggled against elite teams, the Sharks are 15-7 (+7.5) against losing teams. Expect them to take care of business. 

I'm playing on DALLAS. The Stars are going to be a desperate team this afternoon. Not only have they dropped four straight but these same Predators just blanked them, at Nashville. Back on home ice and playing with immediate revenge, I expect a huge effort. Prior to Thursday, the Stars had enjoyed success against the Preds. In fact, they'd won the previous five meetings. This season's earlier game here at Dallas saw the Stars win 4-2. Including that result, the Preds are 16-16 on the road, the Stars are 19-13 at home. While the Stars are 17-12 in the revenge role, the Preds are just 11-14 (-7.4) their last 25, when off a shutout win. Stars stop the bleeding. 

I'm playing on TORONTO. Off a 1-0 shootout loss last night and in danger of going winless on the road trip, the Leafs are going to be all business tonight. True, they haven't fared well in b2b situations this season. However, those have primarily involved one home game and one away game and therefore required travel. In this case, there's obviously very little distance to be covered. So, I don't expect fatigue to be a factor the way that it normally might be. This is an Anaheim team which the Leafs have dominated. They've won the last five games in the series, outscoring the Ducks by a combined 23-11 mark. With the Ducks just 6-12, after scoring four or more goals in their previous game, look for a determined Leafs team to continue that series dominance tonight. 

I'm playing on TAMPA. The Canadiens are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. The Lightning are going to be in an angry mood. Knowing that they've got a road trip on deck, starting with a big game at Boston, they know that they absolutely need to close out the homestand with a win. Montreal is a team which they have handled in all three of this season's meetings. Sure, the Habs would like to avenge those losses. However, they're just 50-79 (-33.7) in the revenge role, the past few seasons. During that span, the Lightning are 22-10 (+6.9) after having scored one goal or less in their previous game. Expect a determined effort as the Lightning improve on those stats this evening. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON. The Flyers are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Having recently lost 7-2 to these same Flyers, right here at home, the Caps are going to be in an extremely angry mood. Note that they've gone 10-4 (+5.5) when attempting to avenge a home loss. Both teams had the past two days off. While the Caps have had a winning record in that situation, the Flyers are actually an ugly 19-30 (-16.6) the past 2+ seasons, when playing with two day's rest in between games. The Caps are a dominant 23-8 (+14.7) in March the past couple of years. Expect payback. 

I'm playing on TAMPA. Big showdown between the top two teams in the East. While the Lightning won't have Stamkos, a player who helped them win the first two games of the season series, I believe that they've still got enough to take care of business on home ice here. These teams will meet again at Boston in a few days. Knowing this, the Lightning will be going all out to "hold serve" here. I like that they won their last game, snapping a 4-game skid and providing some positive momentum. The Lightning have beaten the Bruins five straight times here, scoring three or more goals in all five of those games. Expect them to build off the Calgary win and keep that home ice streak in tact. 

I'm playing on COLUMBUS. Both teams could really use a win. However, with the venue and schedule in their favor, I expect the Jackets to have the advantage. While Columbus had yesterday off, the Canucks are off a hard-fought loss against Toronto. A Saturday night game against the Leafs is always a big deal; fatigue may well be a factor. Vancouver is 11-18 the past couple of seasons, when playing the second of b2b games. Both teams are much better on home ice. The Jackets are 19-12-4 (19-16) at home but 12-9-10 (12-19) on the road. The Canucks are 20-7-4 (20-11) at home but 14-17-2 (14-19) on the road. Knowing that they'll have to face these same Canucks at Vancouver in a week, expect the Jackets to take advantage of the favorable schedule and for them to "hold serve" on home ice. 

I'm playing on EDMONTON. The Jets check in off a 3-0 win over Washington. Thats pretty impressive, as the Caps are tough to beat. That said, lets not forget that the Jets had lost their previous three games. All three losses came on the road, while the win over the Caps came at home. Also, imporantly, they're 0-4 when off a shutout win. While the Jets are off the 3-0 win, the Oilers are off a 3-0 loss. They're an outstanding 14-5 (+9.8) when off a loss of two or more goals though. Knowing their next three games all come on the road, look for a big effort from the Oilers as they bounce back with a much-needed win. 

I'm playing on TORONTO. The Leafs have turned the corner of late. They've won back-to-back games and three of four. The Canucks aren't nearly as tough on the road, as they are at Vancouver - and the Leafs already beat them there. While the line may seem steep, consider that the Leafs were laying -275 the last time that they hosted the Canucks. They are indeed the more talented team. The Canucks are 21-36 (-6.5) the past couple of seasons when playing a road game with an O/U line of six or more, going an ugly 13-27 (-13.2) in February during that span. Leafs close out the month with an important win. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA. The Hawks are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Off a 5-3 loss and having dropped three of their past four, the Panthers are going to be in an angry mood. They're 20-11 (+8.8) after allowing four or more goals in their previous game. While the Hawks might want to avenge an earlier loss at Chicago, they're only 51-77 (-16.1) in the revenge role the past couple of seasons, 21-38 when attempting to avenge a home loss. The Panthers are 31-12 (+13.2) the past two years, when facing a team with a losing record in the second half of the season. Expect them to take care of business on home ice. 

I'm playing on PHILADELPHIA. This is the front end of a home-and-home series between these teams. Knowing they'll face these same Rangers, at MSG, on 3/1, the Flyers will absolutely be determined to take care of business on home ice here. Not only do they have the venue in their favor but the Flyers also have the schedule working for them. While they had Thursday off, the Rangers were involved in a hard fought "Original Six" matchup at Montreal. The last time that these teams met and the only time so far this season was a game here at Philadelphia, on Dec 23. The Rangers were also playing their second game in two days for that one. It didn't work out too well as the Flyers won 5-1. Including that result, the Flyers have taken seven of the last eight meetings. Schedule and venue in their favor, expect them to continue that series dominance for at least another day. 

I'm playing on COLUMBUS. The Jackets are badly in need of a victory and I expect their very best effort tonight. While the game wasn't exactly taxing, as they blew out the Red Wings, the Wild did play Thursday. That's noteworthy, as they're only 13-24 (-11.8) the past 2+ seasons, when playing their second game in two days. Prior to that, these teams had just faced each other, at Minnesota. The Wild eked out a 5-4 win in that one. The Wild also won a close one (2-1) in last season's game at Minnesota. However, in the game here at Columbus, the Jackets prevailed by a 4-2 score. This season, Columbus is 19-15 at home compared to Minnesota's 13-17 mark on the road. The Wild have allowed 106 goals on the road while the Jackets have allowed just 75 at home. The Jackets are 33-22 the past 2+ seasons, when playing with two day's rest in between games. Schedule and venue in their favor, expect them to improve on those stats here. 

I'm playing on MONTREAL. The reality is that the Canadiens won't be making the playoffs. However, they're still mathematically alive and I still expect their very best effort, as a result. Their captain, Weber had this to say: "We're not done yet,” Weber said. “We still got a long ways to go, but we got to take it one game at a time. Obviously, we got one point last night. We need to work on getting points tomorrow and then going forward. Just one game at a time. We can't look further than New York right now and they’re actually playing well. So we got to be ready for them and make sure it’s our best effort to date." Weber's right that the Rangers have been playing well, as they've won four straight. However, they've got a big divisional game on deck against the Flyers tomorrow and they're also an ugly 103-117 (-50.1) the past 200+ times that they were off three or more consec. wins. Look for the Habs to cool them off tonight. 

I'm playing on the NY ISLANDERS. These teams met three times in January. The Rangers took two of those three meetings, including the lone one here. That loss notwithstanding, the Islanders have been excellent on home ice. I expect home ice to provide them with the advantage in this one. While the Rangers are a solid 16-11-2 on the road, the Isles are an outstanding 20-7-4 at home. Currently, the Isles have won five straight here. They scored four or more goals in all five of those wins, too. The trade deadline having come and gone, expect them to keep that streak in tact for another day. 

I'm playing on CAROLINA. Somewhat surprisingly, the Rangers have had their way with the Hurricanes so far this season. That changes tonight. While the Rangers are a respectable 15-13 away from MSG, the Canes are a much better 19-11 here at Raleigh. The Rangers have outscored teams by a single goal (89-88) on the road this season. The Canes have outscored visiting teams by a dominant 104-77 margin. The Rangers are 9-11 off a win by two or more goals. The Canes are 11-6 (+3.9) when playing with two day's rest in between games. Its payback time tonight. 

I'm playing on TORONTO. The Pens have dominated the Leafs in a pair of meetings this season. Once back in November and once two days ago. Those were both at Pittsburgh though. Now, they get a chance to host the Pens. I expect the change of venue to work in their favor. I also expect an extremely motivated effort. Note that the Leafs are 61-43 in the revenge role the past 2+ seasons. During that span, the Pens are just 16-19 (-11) after having won their three previous games. Payback time for Toronto. 

I'm playing on VANCOUVER. I feel that this line could easily be higher. These teams have split a pair of meetings so far this season. Both those were at Minnesota though. Now playing at home, where they are typically much stronger, I expect the Canucks to have the advantage. While the Canucks are 19-10 (19-7-3) at home, the Wild are 10-17 (10-15-2) on the road. The Canucks, 16-8 when playing a home game with an O/U line of six or greater, are 8-5 (+2.9) after scoring one goal or less in their previous game. The Wild are just 5-11 when playing a road game with an O/U line of six or greater. Expect home ice to prove significant as the Canucks bounce back with a big win. 

I'm playing on CHICAGO. The home team took both meetings last season. The Rangers won 4-3 at MSG but the Hawks won 4-1 here at Chicago. I expect home ice to again prove significant. Both teams had the past couple of days off. That figures to favor Chicago. While the Rangers are just 3-4 when playing with two day's rest in between games, the Hawks are an excellent 8-3 (+8.5) when doing so. Having dropped six of their last seven, the Hawks are going to be highly motivated. Look for them to "dig deep" as they stop the bleeding with a much-needed victory. 

I'm playing on CALGARY. The Flames just dominated (6-0) the Ducks, at Anaheim. Now, they face them at Calgary and the Flames have the schedule in their favor. While they had yesterday off, the Ducks are off a win at Vancouver. This is the Ducks' seventh road game in their past eight. Last time in a b2b situation, they lost 5-4. After giving up eight goals last time out, the Flames are going to be hungry. They're 43-31 the past couple of seasons, after allowing four or more goals. That includes a 13-8 (+2.8) mark in that situation this season. Yesterday's win notwithstanding, the Ducks are terrible on the road and they're still a money-burning 35-45 (-16.4) in divisional games the past couple of seasons. As for as wanting payback for the 6-0 loss, the Ducks are also just 19-30 (-10) the past couple of seasons, when attempting to avenge a home loss, 5-9 this season. Flames roll. 

I'm playing on VANCOUVER. The Canucks have been a streaky team all season. After recently having lost four straight, they've now won b2b games. Markstrom is off a 49-save shutout (3-0 win) last game and is expected to back between the pipes for Vancouver. Gibson is expected to go for the Ducks today and he only lasted a period last game, a 6-0 Ducks loss. The Canucks are 15-6 when off a win by two or more goals. They're also a perfect 5-0 when playing with three or more day's rest. They lost at Anaheim earlier but they're a far better team at home. Expect them to keep on rolling for another day. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA. Both teams will want this one but I expect the Panthers to be a little hungrier. This is a team which has dropped three straight on home ice and which absolutely needs to stop the bleeding here. Keep in mind that the Panthers are still a healthy 16-11-2 at home, so the recent skid isn't an indication of how they typically play here. On the season, the Panthers average 3.5 goals per game compared to Edmonton's 3.2. The Panthers already beat the Oilers at Edmonton. Knowing that their next five come on the road, expect them to go all out here and come away with a much-needed victory. 

I'm playing on COLUMBUS. Both teams played yesterday. The Rangers won at Minnesota. The Jackets lost at Buffalo. That makes it three straight wins for NY and three straight losses for Columbus. No-brainer on the Rangers then, right? Not in my opinion. The Jackets are favored for a reason. The Rangers have been outscored 84-80 on the road this season. The Jackets have outscored opposing teams by a 81-65 margin here at home. The three straight wins could give the Rangers some complacency while the three losses will provide the Jackets with a sense or urgency. The Rangers are 5-8 the past couple of seasons after three or more consec. victories. While both teams are playing a b2b, the Rangers are also playing their third game in four days, which is not the case for Columbus. Jackets roll. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE. The Isles are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Off b2b losses, the Preds are going to be in an extremely angry mood. The last time that they lost two in a row, the Preds immediately snapped the skid with a 2-1 win over the Sabres. While the Isles have scored five goals in b2b games, they're still just 10-11 (-4.2) after scoring four or more goals in their previous game. The Preds, 8-4 when playing with two day's rest in between games, have dominated the Isles in recent meetings. In fact, they're 4-0 the last four times that the teams faced each other, scoring 22 goals in the process. Expect "more of the same" on Thursday. 

I'm playing on TORONTO. The Leafs won at Dallas earlier this season. Playing at Toronto, I expect them to have the advantage again this evening. Note that Dallas is just 10-18 (-8.5) the past 2+ seasons, when playing a road game with an O/U line of six or greater. During that span, the Stars are also only 42-45 in non-conf. games. The Leafs, on the other hand, are 52-32 (+5) when playing a non-conf. opponent. Look for home ice to prove the difference in this one. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA. These teams met a few days ago, at Philadelphia. Playing on home ice, the Flyers won 4-1. Tonight's game is at Florida though. Playing on home ice and with "recent revenge," I now expect the Panthers to have the advantage. When these teams played here in November, the Panthers won 5-2. Going back further finds that Florida is 4-0 the last four times it hosted the Flyers, 7-1 the past eight meetings here. Look for the Panthers to improve to 50-33 the past 2+ seasons, when playhing a home game with an O/U line of six or greater. 

I'm playing on EDMONTON. Both teams are going to want this one. The Hawks have dropped three straight while the Oilers have lost two of three. Playing at home, I expect Edmonton to have the advantage. The Hawks won when these teams met at Chicago. Edmonton is 18-13 (+6.9) when playing with revenge. As for the Hawks, they're just 15-24 (-8) the past 2+ seasons, after having lost their previous three or more games. While the Oilers have tomorrow off, the Hawks have a game at Vancouver. Knowing their next three are on the road, look for the revenge-minded Oilers to take care of business on home ice here. 

I'm playing on BUFFALO. The Wings may have scored an upset against Boston last time out. However, that was at home and they were catching the Bruins playing the second of b2b games. Here, they're facing a motivated Buffalo team which is rested and playing on its own ice. I expect the Sabres to have a significant advantage. The fact that the Wings won here less than a week ago will add some extra urgency to the Sabres this evening. Even with last week's win here, the Wings are still 7-19 against sub-500 teams. Look for the revenge-minded Sabres to take care of business tonight. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON. The visiting team has had some success in this season's series but I expect that to change this evening. Note that the Isles have scored 63 goals on the road this season as compared to Washington's 96 at home. Also, note that the Isles are just 1-5 their last six against teams with a winning record. This is the Capitals' final home game before hitting the road for a bit. They just got embarrassed (7-2) by the Flyers last game and are just 1-2 through the first three games here. They're going to be highly motivated to bounce back and close out the homestand with a victory. Given the fact that they're 15-3 (+10.4) after allowing four or more goals in their previous game, I like their chances of doing so. Washington rolls. 

I'm playing on BUFFALO. The Ducks beat the Sabres back in the fall. Playing on home ice, I expect the Sabres to have the advantage in this afternoon's rematch. Note that the Sabres won 3-0 the last meeting here. The Ducks are 10-20 on the road, giving up 28 more goals than they've scored. Off a 5-4 loss, note that the Ducks are 3-10 after scoring four or more goals. Off a win at MSG and with the Red Wings on deck, the Sabres know this is a stretch where they can build some points. Look for them to do so today. 

I'm playing on WINNIPEG.The Jets went through a tough stretch recently, losing five straight and seven of eight. However, they've since responded by winning two of their last three. Having turned the corner, the last thing they want to do is stumble against the struggling Senators. Rather, this is an opportunity for them to build some momentum. Note that Ottawa has been outscored by a 97-61 mark on the road this season. The Jets also haven't forgotten that the Sens upset them here last February. With Ottawa just 26-56 after a loss by two or more goals, its time for the Jets to "make things right." Winnipeg rolls. 

I'm playing on DALLAS. Venue and schedule in their favor, I expect the Stars to take care of the former "North Stars" tonight. These teams have met three times. The first was here at Dallas, the Stars won 6-3. The next two were both at Minnesota. The Wild won the first 3-2 and the most recent (1/18) by a dominating 7-0 margin. Needless to say, Dallas hasn't forgotten that embarrassment. Yes, I won with the Wild last night. However, that was at home and they're just 12-24 (-13.4) their last 36, when playing the second of b2b games. During that span, the Wild are also an ugly 9-21 (-15.1) after playing their previous three at home. The Stars are 11-2 (+8.9) when playing with two day's rest. This won't end well for the Wild. 

I'm playing on EDMONTON. The Sharks are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Off a 3-0 loss, the Oilers are going to be in an angry mood. Note that they're 11-4 (+8.2) when off a loss by two or more goals. The Oilers are also a respectable 11-7 here at home, when the O/U line was six or more. Thats a whole lot better than the Sharks' 6-14 (-7.3) mark when playing a road game with an O/U line of six or more. These teams have split a pair of meetings so far, but both those were at SJ. Catching the Sharks "out of their tank," expect the Oilers to take care of business on home ice. 

I'm playing on MINNESOTA. The Wild are off a much needed momentum-building win last time out. The Canucks, on the other hand, have dropped two straight. Playing the final leg of a road trip, they're already thinking about getting home to Vancouver. The Wild play with revenge from a loss here a few weeks ago. Note that Minnesota was laying -160 for that one. That result notwithstanding, the Wild have been better at home than the Canucks have been on the road. The Canucks are now 20-35 (-6) the past 55 times that they played a road game with an O/U line of six or more. I say the revenge-minded Wild finish on top. 

I'm playing on TORONTO. With this game being played at MSG instead of in Toronto, we're able to get a superior Leafs team at a relatively reasonable price. Consider that the Leafs were laying -245 for the last meeting. That was on 12/28, at Toronto, and the Rangers won. So, the Leafs are going to have payback on their minds. In fact, the road team has won the last three in this series, including a 6-3 win by the Leafs in their last trip here. Both teams lost 5-3 on Monday. However, while the Rangers are 26-44 (-15.4) the past couple of seasons, off a loss by two or more goals, the Leafs are 37-26. Expect them to improve on those stats this evening. 

I'm playing on MINNESOTA. The Wild have had a couple of days off to recover from a 6-1 beating at the hands of the Bruins. They get tomorrow off and they're going to be fully focused on bouncing back while also avenging an earlier loss at Chicago. The Hawks host the Bruins tomorrow, an Original-6 matchup they could easily get caught looking ahead to. While the Hawks have been respectable on the road, the Wild have been a little better here at home. Playing on home ice, expect the highly motivated Wild to have the edge. 

I'm playing on BOSTON. Home ice means a great deal to both of these teams. The Bruins are 17-2-9 at home but 14-8-3 on the road. The Canucks are 17-5-3 at home but 13-13-2 on the road. Knowing that they'll face these same Canucks, at Vancouver, in a couple of weeks, the Bruins will go all out to "hold serve" at home. The Bruins haven't forgotten that the Canucks swept them last season, nor have they forgotten that the Canucs dropped eight goals on them in the game here at Boston, a game the Bruins were laying -265 for. The Canucks did have Monday off but this is still their third road game in the past four days, the first two both going past regulation. The well-rested Bruins, who have won three straight, are a dominant 34-14 the past couple of seasons, when playing with two day's rest in between games. Expect them to take care of business tonight. 

I'm playing on NYI. In addition to playing at home, the Isles have the schedule in their favor for this one. They had the last two days off while the Stars are off a win at MSG last night. Note that NY is 6-2 (+3.8) when playing with two day's rest. While the Isles have a +11 goal differential at home, the Stars sit at -5 on the road. Off b2b wins, the Stars could be a little complacent. The Isles, on the other hand, are going to be hungry, having lost four of their last five. Expect them to bounce back with an important two points. 

I'm playing on CAROLINA. While the Canucks are off a hard-fought OT win yesterday afternoon against the Islanders, the Canes had the day off. Having lost themsleves the previous day, the Canes are going to be angry and determined this afternoon. Added motivation stems from the fact that the Canucks beat Carolina 1-0 back in December, in Vancouver. That result notwithstanding, the Canes have done a great job against teams from the West as they are 14-6 in non-conference action. They're also 14-6 (+7.7) against teams with a winning record. Even with some recent road wins, the Canucks are still below 500 on the road while the Canes are still dominant here at Raleigh. They won, as -200 favorites, as a host in this series last season. Schedule and setup in their favor, I expect them to take care of business once again. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON. Its always a good show when Crosby and Ovechkin go head-to-head. Playing at home, I expect the Caps to have the advantage in the latest battle between the two superstars. Washington is the top team in the leauge, in terms of points. However, the Caps know that the Pens have beaten them twice in a row, both last season. They're going to be extremely determined to avoid having it become three in a row. Indeed, this is the first of four meetings over the next seven weeks and the Caps are absolutely going to want to "hold serve" on home ice. Both teams are playing well. The Caps are off a 5-3 win, the Pens are off a 4-3 win. While the Pens are 12-11 (-2.6) after scoring four or more goals, the Caps are 19-8 (+6.5) when doing so. Washington rolls.

I'm playing on ARIZONA. The Hawks are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. They haven't played since way back on 1/21. Rust could easily be a factor. They're 8-13 (-4.2) the past 21 times that they played with three or more day's rest. The Coyotes, on the other hand, have a couple of games under their belts since the break. That should help them here. The fact that they lost them (and the two before the break) figures to also help. They're going to be extremely motivated to avoid another loss. While I did successfully play against them in their last game, the Coyotes have handled the Hawks this season and I say they do so again this evening. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE. While the trip was broken up by the All Star Break, the Knights have been on the road for a long time. Indeed, this is their sixth straight road game, of an 8-game trip. Even with yesterday's hard-fought win, the Knights are still 1-5 after playing their previous three on the road. The Preds, who had yesterday off, have won three of four including back-to-back wins. They wont have forgotten that the Knights beat them here in November. They're 28-18 (+5.6) the past 2+ seasons, when attempting to avenge a home loss. Schedule and venue in their favor, its payback time. 

I'm playing on the NY ISLANDERS. While the Canucks have been hot, I expect the Isles to have the advantage in this early start in the Eastern Time Zone. In addition to being a West Coast based team playing an early game in the East, the Canucks have a game at Raleigh tomorrow, while the Isles have tomorrow off. These teams will see each other again on 3/10, at Vancouver. The Canucks may have the advantage in that one, as they're currently 17-8 (17-5-3) at home. They're only 12-14 (12-13-1) on the road though. The Isles swept the Canucks last season and have won six of the past seven meetings, including each of the past three at home. They won those games by scores of 5-2, 5-2 and 4-2. Expect home ice to prove significant, the Isles continuing their series dominance for at least one more game. 

I'm playing on CAROLINA. The Knights had been struggling before the break and they'll be hungry to get a win. The problem with that is that this is NOT the venue for a struggling team to get healthy.  Knowing that they'll face these same Knights in Vegas, next week, the Canes absolutely understand that they need to "hold serve" on home ice here. After all, they're just 12-12 (12-10-2) away from Raleigh but a much better 17-9 (17-8-1) here on home ice. While both teams have had a long layoff, I like the fact that the Canes have tomorrow off, while the Knights play at Nashville. Home ice was the difference in last season's games between these teams. The Knights won 3-0 at Vegas. Then, almost exactly one year ago to today, the Canes answered with a 5-2 win. Look for home ice to again prove significant here. 

I'm playing on TAMPA. The fact that the Lightning already played (and lost) a game since the Break should serve them well here. The last thing they want to do is come out of the break and drop two in a row. The Kings have had a long layoff and may not quite be as sharp because of it. Of course, the Lightning are the much better team, regardless of the situation. They were laying -280 when they beat the Kings, at Tampa, two weeks ago. However, because this one is at LA, the price is far more reasonable. The Lightning have had no problem winning here though as they've beaten the Kings seven straight times overall, including each of their last three. They won those three games here by a combined score of 13-5. I say Tampa gets it done again. 

I'm playing on NY. Both teams are playing well right now. The Jackets have won four straight and six of seven. The Rangers aren't far off that pace. They've won back-to-back games and four or their past five. Schedule and venue in their favor, I expect it be the Rangers who "stay hot" this evening. While the Jackets played yesterday, the Rangers have had the past couple of days off. Columbus is 3-4 in b2b situations, 18-22 the past 2+ seasons. The Rangers, already 1-0 against Columbus, have thrived against divisional opponents. They're 10-3 (+10.6) Metropolitan teams. Even still, they're still looking up at Columbus in the standings. That makes this game very important for the Rangers and I expect them to make the most of it. 

I'm playing on WINNIPEG. Home ice hasn't meant much in this series, this season. The road team has won both meetings. The Jets won 3-2 here early in the season while the Hawks won 4-1 at Winnipeg, in December. Overall, however, the Jets have dominated the Hawks, regardless of venue the past couple of seasons. They're 6-1 the past seven meetings, 3-0 their last three here at Chicago. Off a game yesterday, their fourth straight win, the Hawks could be a little complacent. That absolutely shouldn't be the case for the Jets, as they've dropped three of four and got embarrassed by a 7-1 score in their last game. They're 28-15 (+12.1) the past couple of seasons, after scoring one goal or less in their previous game, a dominant 8-1 their last nine in that situation. Expect them to be the hungrier team, bouncing back with an important win. 

I'm playing on CAROLINA. While the Isles are going to want this one, they're in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Carolina is 3-1 (+1.3) when off three or more consecutive losses. Though the Isles, who lost at Washington Sat. afternoon, have had some success, when playing the second of b2b games, I'd still prefer to have had a day's worth of rest in between games. Unlike its guest, Carolina didn't play yesterday. The Canes have thrived at home and they're 12-6 when facing a team with a winning record. Schedule and venue in their favor, expect them to bounce back with an important two points.

I'm playing on PITTSBURGH. I won with the Bruins when these teams faced each other on Thursday. However, that was at Boston. With this afternoon's rematch being played at Pittsburgh, I expect the revenge-minded Penguins to have the advantage. The Bruins are 5-6 when playing a road game with an O/U line of six or more. The Pens, on the other hand, are 12-7 at home with an O/U line of six or more. Going back further finds Pitt. at 56-36 in that situation the past 2+ seasons while Boston is 23-28 (-10.8) in road games with an O/U line of six or greater. The Pens are 15-8 (+6) in the revenge role. I say, its payback time. 

I'm playing on BOSTON. Off back-to-back losses and knowing that they'll face these same Penguins, at Pittsburgh, in a few days, I expect a highly motivated performance from the Bruins. Last time out, the Bruins were blanked 3-0, at Columbus. Therefore, it's worth noting that they're a profitable 22-9 (+9.5) the past 2+ seasons, when off a game where they scored one goal or less. During that span, the Bruins are 35-20 when playing a home game with an O/U line of six or greater. The Pens, meanwhile, are a money-burning 40-45 (-14.9) when playing a road game with an O/U line of six or greater. Over the same period, Pittsburgh is 16-18 (-10) when off three or more consec. victories. The Bruins beat the Pens here earlier and I look for them to do so again on Thursday night. 

I'm playing on CAROLINA. The Canes haven't forgotten that the Jackets beat them twice back in October. They're coming in angry and I expect them to get some payback. While they lost 2-0 last time out, note that Carolina had blanked its previous two opponents, winning 3-0 and 2-0. The Canes are 10-4 (+5.2) when playing with two day's rest and they're 5-1 (+2.6) after scoring one goal or less in their previous game. Expect them to improve on those stats this evening. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA. We're getting the Panthers at a slightly discounted price due to the fact that they'll have their "backup" goalie in net. However, the reality is that Driedger has been better than Bobrovsky. While Bobrovsky has a huge salary and is a former 2-time Vezina Trophy winner, he's also got a 3.29 GAA and a .896 save percentage. Thats the fourth worst GAA in the league and the sixth worst save percentage amongst goalies that have faced a minimum of 500 shots. Driedger, meanwhile, is 5-2 with a 2.40 GAA and a .931 save percentage. Last time out, he made 43 saves against the Leafs. Coach Quenneville noted: "That was a surprise start for him. I thought he handled it real well." The Kings aren't nearly as dangerous as the Leafs and I expect Driedger to continue his strong play. Indeed, LA is just 7-19 on the road, getting outscored by a 90-61 margin. The Panthers, on the other hand, have outscored visiting teams by a 99-79 count. The last time that the Kings visited, Florida won 6-1. Including that result, which came last February, the Panthers are 23-9 (+8.5) when facing a sub-500 team in the second half of the season. Expect them to improve on those stats this evening. 

I'm playing on MONTREAL. The streaky Habs have lost eight games in a row twice this season. After the first 8-game skid, they responded by winning four of five and six of eight. The Canadiens have now snapped the second of those 8-game losing streaks and have won two in a row. Tonight, in addition to having the venue in their favor, the Habs also have the schedule working for them. While they had last night off, the Hawks are off an OT win at Ottawa. The Hawks continue to deal with a number of injuries and those absences figure to catch up with them here, in the back-to-back spot. Look for streaky Montreal to take advantage of the venue/schedule, improving to 24-11 its last 35, when off three consecutive games which finished below the total. 

I'm playing on COLORADO. Off three straight losses, playing with "triple revenge," the Avs are going to be extremely motivated for this one. Last time out, they lost 4-3 against Pittsburgh, in OT. Thats noteworthy as they're a lucrative 10-4 (+5.9) after allowing four or more goals in their previous game. Last time that the Avs had lost three straight, they immediately snapped the skid with a 7-3 win over the Blues. This game has an O/U line of 5.5. The Stars are 29-38 (-7.6) the past 2+ seasons when playing a road game with an O/U line of 5.5. During the same span, the Avs are 20-12 (+4.1) when playing a home game with an O/U line of 5.5. Avs roll. 

I'm playing on WINNIPEG. The Canucks are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. The Jets have lost two in a row, most recently falling 1-0 against Nashville. That was their first game back from a road trip, often a difficult spot, which had concluded with a 5-4 loss at Boston. Those are two tough teams, both of them better, in my opinion than the Canucks. Now, they've gotten the first game back home out of the way and they're going to be very hungry from the two losses. Note that the Jets are 7-1 after scoring one goal or less in their previous game. Going back further finds the Jets at a lucrative 27-15 (+11.1) in that situation. The last time that they were off b2b losses, the Jets bounced back with a win against Montreal. They've absolutely dominated the Canucks in recent seasons and we can expect that to continue here. 

I'm playing on MINNESOTA. While the Wild are well-rested, the Canucks are playing their second game in two days and their third in the past four. Off b2b losses, the Wild are going to be hungry. They've taken b2b meetings and three of the last four (all last season) against Vancouver. The last meeting here, the Wild were laying -250 and they won 6-2. Needless to say, we're getting a far more reasonable price here. Schedule and venue in their favor, expect the Wild to bounce back and improve to 6-2 after scoring one goal or less in their previous game. 

I'm playing on VEGAS. Going to Vegas on the weekend, at the end of a road trip, is less than ideal. Neither is catching the Knights off b2b losses. Indeed, Vegas is going to be hungry for a "W." That's particularly true given the fact that the Knights hit the road after this. They know they need to take care of business on home ice, before they go. The Knights are 32-23 when off a loss by two or more goals, 7-4 this season. The last time that the Knights were off b2b losses, they won 4-1 the start of a 4-game winning streak. Expect them to get back on track once again, improving to 61-39 their last 100 against sub-500 teams. 

I'm playing on BUFFALO. After seven straight victories, the Canucks have now dropped two in a row. I successfully played against them last game and I believe this will be another excellent spot to do so. The Sabres have real trouble on the road. They're now 6-13-4 away from Buffalo. So, its no surprise that they lost at Vancouver earlier. They're an entirely different team here at home though. In fact, they've got a 13-5-3 record here. Like the Sabres, the Canucks are much better in their own building. They're 14-5-3 in Vancouver but 9-12-1 on the road. The Sabres also lost at Vancouver last season but they won when they hosted the Canucks. Expect home ice to prove the difference, once again. 

I'm playing on COLORADO. In addition to playing at home, the Avs are the healthier team. Off b2b losses and playing with revenge from an earlier loss at Pittsburgh, I also expect them to be the hungrier team. Even factoring in the loss at Pittsburgh, the Avs are a healthy 11-6 against teams from the East. They're also a profitable 10-3 (+7.6) after giving up four or more goals in their previous game. While they've lost their last two at Pittsburgh, the Avs have beaten the Pens twice in a row, here at Colorado. They won those games by scores of 6-3 and 4-2. Last time they were on home ice, the Avs beat the Blues by a 7-3 score. Expect them to bounce back with another win on Friday. 

I'm playing on CAROLINA. The Canes have both the schedule and venue working in their favor here. The Coyotes got cooled down at Tampa yesterday and are now playing their second game in two days. The Canes, on the other hand, play with two day's rest. They're 9-4 (+4.2) in that situation this season. Carolina has also taken care of business against teams from the West, going 11-4 (+6.3) in non-conference action. Additionally, we find that the Canes are 12-5 (+3.8) after having scored four or more goals. The Coyotes have played the second of b2b games twice since just before Christmas and they lost both times. Canes roll. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA. After seven straight wins, the Canucks were brought back down to earth in a big way on Tuesday. They were blown out by a 9-2 score, at Tampa. Speaking of "blowouts," the Panthers haven't forgotten that the Canucks hammered them by a 7-2 score, at Vancouver, earlier in the season. Nor, have they have forgotten that the Canucks swept them last season, including a 3-2 game here when the Panthers were -200 favorites. Tonight, we can expect the Panthers to exact some revenge. Note that the Panthers were playing the second of b2b games when they lost at Vancouver earlier. Thats not the case here though. Plus, the Panthers get the next two days off. Needless to say, the Canucks will have their full attention. While Florida did lose last time out, it was the first game back home, after a 5-game road trip. That "first game back" can often be tough. They've gotten that out of the way now though. While the Canucks are 9-11-1 on the road, the Panthers are 13-8-2 at home. The Canucks average 3.0 goals per game; the Panthers average 3.4. It all adds up to a victory for the home team. 

I'm playing on BOSTON. This is a tough spot for the Jets. Last night, they scored an emotional upset 'revenge' victory at Toronto. Now, in addition to playing the second of b2b games, they'll be playing their third road game in the past four days. They'll face a rested Boston team which had yesterday off and which will only be playing its fourth game in 2020. The Bruins got on track in a big way Tuesdsay, winning 6-2 at Nashville. Still looking for their first home win in 2020, the Bruins are going to be extremely hungry. Over the past 2+ seasons, they're a lucrative 79-49 in the second half of the season. During that span, they're also 49-33 in non-conf games and 56-37, after having scored four or more goals in their previous game. Schedule and venue in their favor, expect them to improve on those stats this evening.

I'm playing on MONTREAL. The Canadiens are going to be extremely hungry tonight. Not only did the Oilers beat them just before Christmas, at Edmonton, but the Habs have now dropped seven straight. They desperately need to stop the bleeding. The Canadiens also lost at Edmonton last season but they bounced back and beat the Oilers in the rematch, here at Montreal. Expect them to do so again, moving to 10-6 when facing a team from the Western Conference. 

I'm playing on CALGARY. The Flames are going to have payback on their minds; the Hawks just upset them at Calgary, on New Year's Eve. Since that New Year's Eve loss, Calgary has bounced back by beating Minnesota and NYR by scores of 4-3 and 5-4. Note that Flames are 43-32 the past 2+ seasons, after scoring four or more goals, in their previous game. During that span, they're also a profitable 40-29 (+6.3) after allowing four or more goals. The Hawks rallied for a 4-2 win over the Wings last time out but they're just 20-30 the past 50 times that they were off a win by two or more goals. The Flames won here on this exact day (1/7) in 2019. Expect history to repeat itself this evening. 

I'm playing on LA. While I successfully played against the Kings in their last game, I believe the Jackets will prove to a much better matchup for them than the Predators were. While the Kings are a respectable 11-9 (11-8-1) at home, Columbus is an ugly 7-12 (7-6-6) on the road. Last season, the Jackets won 4-1 when the teams met at Columbus. However, the Kings won by an identical 4-1 score in the game here at LA. A couple of weeks ago, the Jackets beat the Kings at Columbus, again. With tonight's rematch at LA and with the Jackets an ugly 4-11 (-8.8) against Western Conf. teams, its payback time. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE. Off three straight losses and looking to avenge an earlier defeat at the hands of these same Kings, the Predators are going to be an extremely motivated team. I expect them to snap their skid with a much needed victory. Off since New Year's Eve, the Kings could have a little rust here. Either way, I believe they're a less talented team than Nashville. Indeed, the Preds know that they've underachieved and they know they absolutely need to turn things around, now. Prior to the October loss, the Preds had beaten the Kings six straight times. Expect them to resume that series dominance here. 

I'm playing on COLORADO. The Avs are going to be extremely hungry for this one. Not only have they dropped three straight games but they will play with double revenge from a pair of earlier losses to the Blues. Plus, they know they hit the road after this. That makes taking care of business here, tonight, more essential than ever. After giving up seven goals last time out, we can expect a much better defensive effort tonight. Note that Colorado is 9-3 the past 12 times it gave up four or more goals in its previous game. Both earlier meetings were at St. Louis. Now, playing at Colorado, expect the revenge-minded Avs to get some payback. 

I'm playing on CALGARY. I successfully played against the Rangers on New Year's Eve and I'm going against them again tonight. While the price may initially look a little steep, consider that the Flames were -305 the last time they hosted NY. (Calgary won 5-1.) The Flames are going to be extremely hungry. This is the third game of a 3-game homestand and they already dropped the first two games. They absolutely can't affort to go winless on the homestand. The Flames, who swept the Rangers last season, have a 15-7 record in January the past couple of seasons. Expect them to ring in the new year with a "W." 

I'm playing on FLORIDA. If this game was at Florida, the price would be much higher. The Panthers were laying -205 when they hosted the Sens a few weeks ago. (Florida won 6-1.) However, because they're playing at Ottawa, we can get the Panthers at a far more reasonable price. The Panthers have won seven of their last 11 visits here though, including each of the past two. The talent gap between the teams is arguably as big, or bigger, than ever, too. While the Sens are 5-12 against teams with a winning record, the Panthers are 10-5 against teams with a losing record. The Panthers already dropped the first leg of this 4-game trip and the next two games are more difficult than this one. That makes taking care of business here essential. Expect them to do exactly that.

I'm playing on EDMONTON. Having dropped back-to-back games and four of their past five, the Oilers are going to be hungry tonight. Thats particularly true given the fact that they start a long road trip after this game. They know that they absolutely need to take care of business here at home. Facing the Rangers usually brings out their best, too. This is a team which they've beaten three straight times. While the Rangers are 6-7 against teams from the West, the Oilers are 10-6 against teams from the East. Expect them to close out the year with a much-needed win. 

I'm playing on TAMPA. Knowing that they'll face these same Habs, at Montreal, on 1/2, I expect the Lightning to be all business here. The Lightning are 6-1 the last seven meetings with Montreal and that includes a 3-0 mark for the games here at Tampa. Note that they were laying -220, -260, and -255 for those three games and that we're getting them for a far more reasonable price here. In fact, since this very day two years ago, the Bolts are 4-0 in four home meetings vs. Montreal. Expect them to continue their series success for at least another day. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE. Knowing that they will be facing these same Penguins tomorrow, at Pittsburgh, I expect the Predators to be extremely motivated to "hold serve" on home ice this evening. Though interrupted by Christmas, the Pens are at the end of a 4-game road Western Conference road trip. While they've taken two of the first three, they're still 7-9 on the road, not nearly as strong as when playing at home. The Preds have been playing some of their best hockey. They're 2-0 their last two and 4-1 their last five. With Crosby still out for the Pens, look for home ice to prove the difference here. 

I'm playing on BOSTON. While I certainly respect the league-leading Capitals, I expect the Bruins to be the hungrier team in this one. Boston desperately needs a win before Christmas. Stung by OT and shootout losses, this is a team thats given them trouble in recent years and which beat them less than two weeks ago. The Bruins did beat them (1-0) last February though. So, they know it can be done. The Caps have already had a great start to the season, no matter what happens today. Off a win against Tampa and thinking about getting home for Christmas, I feel they may be a little complacent here. At least, more so than their hosts. Many won't give them much of a chance here, particularly with Chara sidelined, but I say the revenge-minded Bruins give the home fans an early Christmas gift here. 

I'm playing on BOSTON. Home ice has been very significant between these teams in recent seasons and I expect that to be the case again Saturday. Last season, the Preds won 1-0 at Nashville but the Bruins won 5-2 here in Boston. That was almost exactly one year ago (12/22) to the day. The previous season, the Preds won 5-3 at Nashville but the Bruins won 4-3 at Boston. The year before? The Preds won 2-1 at Nashville but the Bruins won 4-1 here at Boston. You get the idea. The Preds are playing the final leg of a road trip and may well already be thinking of getting home for last minute shopping and preparations for Christmas. They're already 0-3 (-4.9) after playing their previous three on the road. Look for history to repeat itself as a desperate Boston team again "holds serve" at home. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA. I won with the Panthers in their last game, a 6-1 breakout win. That snapped a 3-game slide. With a pair of tough road games on deck, they're going to really follow it up with another win here. Schedule and venue in their favor, I expect them to do exactly that. Indeed, this one sets up very nicely for the home team. While the Panthers had yesterday off, the Stars are off a come-from-behind upset win at Tampa. Adding to tonight's potential fatigue factor, the Stars had to play OT. In addition to the physical part of, off that big win, they could easily have a bit of an emotional letdown tonight. Expect the fresher, hungrier Panthers to take care of business. 

I'm playing on CALGARY. The Canadiens have had success here at Calgary the past couple of seasons. However, I expect them to stumble tonight. Off back-to-back home losses, the Flames are going to be an angry team tonight. They're still 10-7-2 at home, compared to 8-11-2 on the road. Knowing that their next three will be on the road and also knowing that they'll be facing these same Canadiens, at Montreal, in a few weeks, the Flames know that they need to take care of business on home ice here. I believe that they'll do just that. Prior to the skid, the Flames had been on fire. Look for them to bounce back with a huge effort en route to earning an important two points.

I'm playing on BOSTON. The Isles are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. The Bruins are going to be in an angry mood and this is a team they always have their way with. Over the last seven meetings, the Bruins are 7-0 against the Isles. They've dominated, too. In fact, in those seven games, the Isles scored just seven combined goals. The Bruins, on the other hand, scored 25. While the Isles have had a great start, I don't feel they're quite ready to compete with the top teams. They lost 8-3 to Nashville last time out and that should be a sign of things to come. Expect the motivated Bruins to hand them another loss here. 

I'm playing on PHILADELPHIA. While I won with the Ducks in their last game, I expect them to stumble against what is going to be a highly motivated Flyer team. Losers of three straight, the Flyers know that they need to right the ship. They also know that they'll face these same Ducks, at Anaheim, in less than two weeks. Thats significant as both teams are much better on home ice. The Flyers are 10-2-4 at home but 7-9-1 on the road. The Ducks are 9-7-2 at home but 5-8-2 on the road. The Flyers were laying -245 the last time that they hosted the Ducks. They won 6-2. Tonight's price is obviously far more reasonable and I feel thats providing us with excellent value. Flyers roll. 

I'm playing on NASHVILLE. I believe that this is going to prove to be a very difficult game for the Rangers. They're facing one of the top teams from the West. Also, they're going to be facing a very motivated Nashville team. Not only have the Predators lost back-to-back games but the Rangers also upest them, at Nashville, in early November. The last time that the Preds were off b2b losses, they exploded for six goals, in winning their next game. Making matters worse for the Rangers, this is their first game back home from a Western Conference road trip, which is often difficult. The fact that that they lost the final game in a shootout doesn't help matters. We're getting a lot more reasonable a price on the Preds because of the game being at MSG instead of Nashville. However, the Rangers have an identical record on the road as they do here at home. The Rangers also won at Nasvhille last season but the Preds won here. Expect the revenge-minded road team to take care of business once again. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA. This line fell a bit from its opener. I feel that it should have gone the other way. Indeed, the Sens are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. The Panthers are going to be in an angry mood, off three straight losses. The last time that they'd dropped three straight, they responded with a 3-0 shutout win over Nasvhille. The Sens won last time out. However, they're still 5-14 on the road and they're an awful 21-47 (-18.3) the past 2+ seasons, when off a game where they scored four or more goals. Panthers roll. 

I'm playing on VEGAS. The Knights have both the venue and the schedule in their favor. They had yesterday off while the Canucks are off a 4-2 loss at San Jose last night. Note that the Canucks are just 9-16 the past 25 times that they played the second of b2b games. The Knights are 56-30 (+13.3) in divisional play since coming into the league, 7-4 this season.They've beaten the Canucks three straight times; they were laying -275 for the last meeting here, a 3-0 Vegas win. The Knights know that they'll face these same Canucks, at Vancouver, in four days. That makes "holding serve" on home ice critical. Expect them to do exactly that. 

I'm playing on ANAHEIM. This is an important game for the Ducks. They've been struggling and are off a loss. After this game, they go on a road trip, one of those games will be at MSG against these same Rangers. That makes taking care of business here, on home ice, critical. The Rangers are at the end of a road trip themselves and could already be thinking about getting home to get ready for the holidays. They're just 3-6 off a win by two or more goals. They're also a dismal 5-21 (-14.4) the past couple of seasons, when playing a road game with an O/U line of 5.5. Ducks roll. 

I'm playing on SAN JOSE. The Rangers are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. With an 0-5 record in December, the Sharks are going to be in an angry mood. Note that four of those five losses came on the road, each at tough venues. The other came against Washington, the team with the best record in the league. Tonight, the Sharks are on home ice and facing a far more beatable team. They know they need to take advantage and stop the bleeding. Expect the Sharks to do exactly that, the Rangers falling to 21-43 (-20.2) the past 2+ seasons, after a loss by two or more goals in their previous game. 

I'm playing on FLORIDA. The Islanders won the first two games of the season series. Both were very close, one came in a shootout. Tonight, on home ice for the first of this season's meetings, the Panthers get some payback. While the Isles have been solid on the road, outscoring teams by a modest 36-35 margin, the Panthers have arguably been more dominant at home. They've outscored visiting teams by a 57-47 margin. Off a loss and with a tough opponent (Boston) on deck, the Panthers know they need this one. while the Isles are a bit banged up (Leddy, Ladd) Florida is relatively healthy. The Panthers have also been getting strong goaltending of late as Bobrovsky has an impressive .964 save percentage over his past three games, stopping 109 of 113 shots during that span. Expect a highly motivated effort as the Panthers bounce back and avenge the earlier losses. 

I'm playing on VEGAS. These teams have split a pair of meetings thus far. The Knights won the first while Chicago came back and won the most recent, here at Vegas. The Hawks, 5-8 on the road, are going to really miss Duncan Keith for this one though and the Knights haven't forgotten that the Hawks upset them here last game. They're 21-12 when attempting to avenge an earlier home loss. Off a 5-0 loss, its worth noting that the Knights are also a profitable 23-12 (+8.8) after scoring one goal or less in their previous game. Expect home ice to prove significant as the revenge-minded Knights bounce back with an important win. 

I'm playing on TAMPA. Playing at home, the Isles beat the Lightning to begin November. Tampa hasn't forgotten. Now, in their own building, look for the Lightning to exact some revenge. I successfully played against the Isles last time out, noting: "...this is a tough venue for visiting teams ...Meanwhile, the Isles have dropped four of their last five on the road, the lone win coming at Detroit ..." With the 3-1 loss, the Isles are now just 1-5 their last six on the road. The Lightning were firing on all cylinders last time out, winning 7-1. The offense has now scored progressively more goals its last few times out and thats the type of performance which typically gets them going. They're 76-36 (+17.8) the last 100+ after scoring four or more goals in their previous game. This has been Tampa's time; with the win over the Sharks, the Lightning are a dominant 26-4 in December the past 2+ seasons. Payback time. 

I'm playing on DALLAS. The Stars regained their confidence with a much needed win last time out and I expect them to carry the positive momentum into this evening's game. They don't want to revert back to losing and they haven't forgotten the Isles upset them here last season. This is a tough venue for visiting teams. With Thursday's win, the Stars are now 10-5 here. Meanwhile, the Isles have dropped four of their last five on the road, the lone win coming at Detroit. I believe that the price is fair and I look for the Stars to continue their strong play on home ice. 

I'm playing on CAROLINA. The Wild have been hot but I expect the Canes to cool them off here. While the Wild are 7-12 on the road, the Canes are 9-5 at home. Carolina already won, when these teams met at Minnesota. Obviously, the Wild would like to avenge that loss. That's generally not much of a motivator for them though. In fact, they're just 16-30 (-17.3) the past 2+ seasons, when attempting to avenge an earlier home loss. In other words, if they can't beat teams at Minnesota, they typically can't beat them on the road, either. The Canes know they won't play here again for some time. Look for them to make the most of their time here, cooling off the Wild and earning an important two points. 

I'm playing on PHILADELPHIA. The Flyers already lost once to the Sens this season. They're not going to let it happen again. At the end of a long road trip, the Sens will be happy to be going home after this. Note that their recent games were played in Pacific and Mountain time and now they're playing an early game in the east. While the Sens won last time out, they're 1-6 off a win by two or more goals, 11-27 in that situation the past couple of seasons. Knowing they have three tough road games following this one, the Flyers know they need to take care of business. They'll do exactly that. 

I'm playing on EDMONTON. These teams have met twice so far this season. In both cases, the home team won. With the Kings just 2-11 on the road and getting outscored by a combined 54-26 margin, I expect home ice to again prove the difference this evening. Off a 5-2 loss to lowly Ottawa, their third defeat in four games, the Oilers are going to be very hungry. They're 6-2 after allowing four or more goals in their previous game and 7-2 when off a loss by two or more. Expect them to improve on those stats tonight. 

I'm playing on NEW JERSEY. Off three straight losses, the Devils are going to be extremely hungry. Schedule and venue in their favor, I expect them to stop the bleeding. Though they lost their last trip to Chicago, the Devils have had recent success against the Hawks here at New Jersey. In fact, they've scored 12 goals in winning their last two against the Hawks here. While the Devils have had the past couple of days off, the Hawks check in off an upset win at Boston, last night. Thats noteworthy as they're 13-23 (-8.3) when playing the second of b2b games, the past 2+ seasons. 

I'm playing on DALLAS. This is the second game of a home-and-home series. After dropping the game at Winnipeg, I expect the Stars to bounce back and return the favor this evening. Off four straight losses and playing with immedite revenge, the Stars are going to be extremely hungry. They're still a healthy 9-5 here at Dallas. Remember, prior to the skid, they'd won seven straight including a 5-3 home win against these same Jets. Including that result, the home team is already 3-0 in the season series. Over the years, the Stars a profitable 76-55 (+17.8) when off three or more consecutive losses. During that skid, they're an even more lucrative 232-149 (+53) after scoring one goal or less in their previous game. Expect home ice to again prove the difference. 

I'm playing on COLUMBUS. Off b2b losses and with a road trip on deck, the Jackets are going to be a desperate team tonight. They know they need this one and I expect their very best effort. The Rangers came back down to earth with a 4-1 loss last time out. Thats noteworthy as they're a terrible 20-42 (-20.4) when off a loss by two or more goals, the past couple of seasons. During the same stretch, the Jackets were a far better 35-22 (+9) when off a loss by two or more. The Jackets have taken three straight in the series and they continue that dominance this evening. 

I'm playing on MONTREAL. The Canadiens finally stopped the bleedind last time out. They're going to be highly motivated to make it two in a row. Schedule and venue in their favor, I expect them to do exactly that. While Montreal had last night off, the Avs are off a big win at Toronto last night. Thats noteworthy as they're just 10-16 (-5.1) the past couple of seasons, when playing the second of b2b games. The home team has won seven straight in the series. Expect that home ice dominance to continue here.

I'm playing on MONTREAL. While the Isles certainly come in as the hotter team, the Habs have both the venue and the schedule working for them. They're rested while the Isles are off a win against the Wings yesterday. The Isles may have an impressive record but this is a team that Canadiens know that they can beat. They're 4-1 the past five meetings including a 4-0 win the last time that the teams played here. Needless to say, they're going to be extremely motivated to snap their losing streak. The Canadiens have been here before, Price remembering a seven game winless skid in 2017: "Yeah, it does bring back memories. But I think some of the guys that were in this room back then learned from that and know that nobody's going to feel sorry for us or hand us anything. So we need to go back out there and earn it." Look for them to do exactly that tonight, outworking their guests en route to a badly needed victory. 

I'm playing on ANAHEIM. The Ducks had a terrible November and they're going to be highly motivated to start December on a different note. They know their next game is against the Capitals, followed by two on the road. That makes taking care of business tonight absolutely necessary. With a 2-10 road record, the Kings are the perfect guests. They've been outscored 50-24 when playing away from their own rink. The Ducks are well-rested and they don't play for a few days after this. Their full attention is on winning this game. Expect them to dig deep and get it done.