My selection is on Calgary over Columbus at 9:05 pm ET on Tuesday.

The Flames are in desperate need of a turnaround after dropping four straight games, all on the road. Returning to Calgary offers an opportunity to right the ship, especially with revenge on their minds following a 5-2 defeat in Columbus last week. The Flames will also be motivated, knowing their schedule stiffens considerably in the coming weeks.

While the Blue Jackets are riding a modest two-game winning streak, their road struggles remain a concern, as they’ve posted a 3-6-2 record away from home this season. Calgary’s home ice and urgency should provide the edge in this matchup as it looks to break its losing skid.

Take Calgary. Projected score: Calgary 4, Columbus 2.

My selection is on New Jersey over New York at 7 pm ET on Monday.

The Devils are looking to bounce back from a tough 6-5 loss to the Capitals on Saturday, a game where they were in a bit of a challenging back-to-back situation. Despite the loss, New Jersey has been solid this season, posting a 16-9-2 record and a stellar 10-4 mark on the road. The Devils will be motivated to snap their four-game losing streak against the Rangers, and this matchup presents a good opportunity for them to do so.

New York's victory over Montreal on Saturday was a much-needed one, ending a five-game losing streak. However, they’ve been inconsistent this season and have struggled to string together consistent wins. With the Rangers having two days off before continuing their homestand against Pittsburgh on Thursday, there’s a chance they could look ahead and not give this game their full attention.

New Jersey has been strong on the road and will look to exploit any defensive lapses by the Rangers. The Devils have the offensive firepower to challenge New York’s defense, and with the Rangers coming off a grueling win over Montreal, they might not be able to match the intensity New Jersey brings.

Take New Jersey. Projected score: New Jersey 4, New York 2.

My selection is on Ottawa over Anaheim at 8 pm ET on Sunday.

The Senators come into this game off a 5-2 loss to the Kings on Saturday night, where they struggled in the third period. Despite the setback, Ottawa has the motivation to bounce back strong in this matchup against Anaheim. The Senators were swept by the Ducks in last year's two-game season series, so expect them to be eager for revenge.

Anaheim, on the other hand, has struggled at home this season, with a 4-7-1 record on their own ice. They’ve also been inconsistent recently, with only one win in their last four games. While the Ducks do have the rest advantage, having last played on Friday, the Sens should have received the wake-up call they needed after their recent loss and are likely to come out motivated to right the ship.

Ottawa has shown flashes of better play this season and, with their back against the wall, they should have enough to outlast the struggling Ducks.

Projected score: Ottawa 4, Anaheim 2.

My selection is on St. Louis over Philadelphia at 7:05 pm ET on Saturday.

St. Louis comes into this game with momentum after back-to-back road wins against the Rangers and Devils. The Blues have shown marked improvement under Jim Montgomery, whose leadership appears to have sparked a turnaround for the team. This contest also sets up as a revenge opportunity for St. Louis after a narrow one-goal loss to the Flyers on Halloween Night.

Philadelphia is also riding high with consecutive wins, including an impressive victory against the Rangers last night. However, the Flyers face a challenging back-to-back situation, which could leave them at a disadvantage against a rested and focused Blues squad.

Expect St. Louis to capitalize on this favorable spot and continue its recent strong play.

Take St. Louis. Projected score: St. Louis 4, Philadelphia 2.

My selection is on Los Angeles over Ottawa at 7:05 pm ET on Saturday.

The Kings have a score to settle after a wild 8-7 overtime loss to the Senators earlier this season, which ended their three-game winning streak in this series. Despite that setback, Los Angeles has historically fared well against Ottawa, winning six of the last eight meetings.

Los Angeles enters this matchup with momentum, having secured its second consecutive victory with a 2-1 win over Anaheim last night. While the Kings’ performance may not have been their sharpest, they continue to demonstrate their ability to grind out wins.

Ottawa opened its west coast road trip with a narrow 4-3 victory in San Jose on Wednesday. While the Senators have shown flashes of competitiveness, their 4-6 road record this season underscores their struggles away from home.

Look for the Kings, who are 7-2-1 at home this season, to avenge their earlier loss and extend their winning streak.

Take Los Angeles. Projected score: Los Angeles 4, Ottawa 2.

My selection is on New York over Philadelphia at 1 pm ET on Friday.

The Rangers may be in a slump, having dropped four straight, but their 12-8-1 record reflects the quality of their roster and their strong start to the season. This matchup offers an opportunity for New York to bounce back against a Philadelphia team that has been inconsistent and overly reliant on tight games to secure results.

Philadelphia's 10-10-3 record tells the story of a middling squad that has struggled to separate itself from opponents. Its recent run includes three straight games requiring overtime or a shootout, underscoring the Flyers’ inability to close out games in regulation. Playing their second game in three days, fatigue could become a factor against a Rangers team eager to right the ship.

Expect New York’s depth and talent to shine through, as they capitalize on Philadelphia’s defensive vulnerabilities and lack of scoring punch. The Rangers are in a strong position to snap their losing streak here.

Take New York. Projected score: Rangers 4, Flyers 2.

My selection is on Pittsburgh over Vancouver at 7:30 pm ET on Wednesday.

The Canucks come into this game on the second leg of a back-to-back after a strong 2-0 shutout victory in Boston last night, marking their second consecutive win to start their road trip. While Vancouver has been one of the NHL's early surprises this season, back-to-back games often present a challenge, particularly with travel involved. This quick turnaround could test their depth and energy levels against a rested opponent.

Pittsburgh, meanwhile, has had three days to regroup following a disappointing 6-1 home loss to Utah on Saturday. That marked their third straight defeat and extended a rough patch in which they've dropped eight of their last ten contests. Despite the struggles, the Penguins should benefit from their extended rest and home ice, offering an opportunity to bounce back and avoid slipping further in the standings. Pittsburgh will also be motivated by the chance to avenge their 4-3 loss to the Canucks in Vancouver earlier this season.

The Penguins’ offense has underperformed in recent games but possesses the firepower to take advantage of a potentially fatigued Canucks defense. Expect Pittsburgh to come out with urgency as they look to end their losing streak and capitalize on this scheduling spot.

Take Pittsburgh. Projected score: Pittsburgh 4, Vancouver 2.

My selection is on Boston over Vancouver at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

Boston has shown a marked improvement in its last two games, responding well to the recent coaching change by allowing just one goal combined in consecutive victories. While the Bruins have struggled offensively this season, ranking last in the league in goals per game, their defensive resurgence could be the key to a win in this matchup. Vancouver comes in riding high after a 4-3 win in Ottawa to open its road trip, improving to an impressive 7-1 on the road this season. However, the Canucks’ defense remains a concern, ranking 23rd in goals allowed per game, and Boston should be able to take advantage of those vulnerabilities.

This is also a revenge spot for the Bruins, who dropped the most recent meeting between these teams 3-2 last February. With newfound energy under interim leadership and the advantage of playing at home, Boston is poised to keep its momentum rolling against a Canucks team that might struggle to sustain its strong road form.

Take Boston. Projected score: Boston 3, Vancouver 2.

My selection is on Ottawa over Calgary at 7:30 pm ET on Monday.

The Senators are eager to halt a five-game skid and close out their homestand on a high note before heading west for a three-game road trip. While their recent results haven't been favorable, Ottawa has shown flashes of competitiveness, and this serves as a solid opportunity to reset against a Calgary team that has struggled to establish consistency on the road.

The Flames enter this contest riding a four-game winning streak, but all those victories came at home. Away from Calgary, they’ve been less reliable, posting a 3-3-3 record this season. Ottawa will also be motivated by revenge after a 6-3 defeat to the Flames last January. With a desperate mindset and home-ice advantage, the Senators are positioned to end their slump and secure a much-needed win.

Take Ottawa. Projected score: Senators 4, Flames 3.

My selection is on San Jose over Buffalo at 8:05 pm ET on Saturday.

Buffalo enters this game on a positive note, having started its western road trip 2-0, including a 3-2 overtime win against Anaheim last night. The Sabres will now play the second game of a back-to-back, which could lead to some fatigue, especially late in the contest. Buffalo's recent schedule has been demanding, and this will mark its third game in four nights.

San Jose, meanwhile, returns home after a two-game road trip through Dallas and St. Louis. The Sharks have shown significant improvement recently, earning points in five of their last seven games, including two outright wins. At home, San Jose has been far more competitive this season, going 4-4-1 compared to its struggles on the road.

With Buffalo potentially worn down from travel and consecutive games, the rested Sharks have a strong opportunity to capitalize and pick up another home victory.

Take San Jose. Projected score: San Jose 3, Buffalo 2.

Underdog Game of the Month. My selection is on Vegas over Toronto at 7:30 pm ET on Wednesday.

Vegas enters this matchup eager to bounce back after a rare 5-2 home loss to Washington on Sunday. Starting a five-game road trip, the Golden Knights bring one of the league's most potent offenses, ranking in the top three in goals per game and excelling on the power play at second overall. Toronto’s struggles with discipline—ranking 21st in penalty minutes per game—could give Vegas plenty of chances to capitalize with the man advantage.

Toronto is coming off a hard-fought 4-3 overtime win against Edmonton but has had an extended layoff since. While they’ve been solid at home, this game presents a tough challenge against a motivated and offensively dynamic Golden Knights team. Vegas dominated the last meeting between these teams in February, winning 6-2, and their balanced attack and road focus make them a strong pick here.

Take Vegas. Projected score: Vegas 4, Toronto 2.

My selection is on New York over Vancouver at 10 pm ET on Thursday.

The Islanders enter this matchup with a solid road presence, maintaining a competitive 4-3-2 record away from home. Despite a tough overtime loss to Edmonton on Tuesday, New York has shown resilience against strong opponents and continues to compete closely in road games. The Islanders’ balanced approach on both ends of the ice could be key here, as they look to bounce back against a Vancouver team that hasn’t fully capitalized on home-ice advantage this season.

Vancouver may have a better overall record at 8-3-3, but they’re just 2-2-3 at home, suggesting vulnerability in front of their own fans. Although the Canucks took down Calgary on Tuesday, that was a tight divisional matchup, and New York presents a different type of challenge. Given the Islanders’ recent form and Vancouver’s struggles at home, New York is well-positioned to edge out a victory.

Take New York. Projected score: Islanders 3, Canucks 2.

My selection is on Los Angeles over Colorado at 10 pm ET on Wednesday.

The Kings have been strong in the early part of the season, boasting a 9-5-3 record and showing resilience following losses. Despite their recent 3-1 setback against Calgary, Los Angeles has demonstrated effective play on both sides of the ice, especially in creating scoring opportunities. The Kings have been competitive in most games this season and have a balanced attack that could be effective against a Colorado team that has struggled with consistency, especially on defense.

Colorado may have picked up some momentum with back-to-back wins to kick off their homestand, but their 8-8 record reflects some issues that have cropped up through the season. Defensive lapses have been particularly costly, and while they won the last matchup between these teams 5-1 in January, the Kings have shown improvement since then. With Los Angeles coming in hungry to bounce back and their solid performance this season, they look like a strong play in this matchup. Take Los Angeles. Projected score: Los Angeles 4, Colorado 2.

My selection is on Calgary over Los Angeles at 8:30 pm ET on Monday.

The Los Angeles Kings are off to a strong start this season with a 9-4-3 record, coming off a 5-2 victory over the Blue Jackets on Saturday. While their offense has been productive, they have also been known to struggle on the road at times. On the other hand, the Calgary Flames have had a bit of a mixed season, but they’ve been solid at home with a 4-3 record. Despite their recent loss in a shootout to Buffalo, the Flames have been competitive in most of their games, and playing at home gives them a bit of an edge.

Historically, the Flames have been a tough team to beat on home ice, and they will be looking to bounce back after a tight loss. While Los Angeles took the most recent meeting 4-1 last April, this matchup is in Calgary, where the Flames have the advantage. Look for Calgary to come out strong and use their home ice to get the win.

Take Calgary. Projected score: Flames 3, Kings 2.

My selection is on Minnesota over Los Angeles at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Kings delivered a 3-0 victory in Nashville last night, improving to 7-3-3 on the season. They'll face a difficult test in this back-to-back spot on Tuesday, however, as Minnesota was idle yesterday after Sunday's overtime win over Toronto and has compiled an impressive 8-1-2 record so far this season (including a 5-1-1 mark on home ice). This is a key spot for the Wild as they'll get tomorrow off before beginning a three-game road trip in San Jose on Thursday. Feeling good about themselves after last night's victory, the Kings figure to have one eye on a trip home to host the Canucks on Thursday. Take Minnesota (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on New Jersey over Edmonton at 8:35 pm et on Monday.

The Oilers delivered a hard-fought 4-2 win in the latest instalment of the Battle of Alberta in Calgary last night. Meanwhile, the Devils have been idle since Friday's 3-0 defeat at the hands of those same Flames in Calgary. I'm confident we'll see New Jersey bounce back as it seeks revenge for a 6-3 loss to the Oilers in the most recent matchup between these two teams last December. Note that Edmonton continues to lag offensively, ranking 28th in the league in goals per game with Connor McDavid still on the shelf. It did score four goals last night but keep in mind one of those came on an empty net with three seconds remaining. New Jersey currently ranks 10th in the NHL in goals per game, averaging north of 3.5. Take New Jersey (10*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Vegas at 10:05 pm et on Wednesday.

We won with the Golden Knights the last time these two teams met back on October 22nd. I won't hesitate to switch gears and go the other way in Wednesday's rematch. The Kings are coming off a tough 4-2 loss in San Jose last night. The Sharks seem to be finding their way so perhaps that defeat wasn't quite as embarrassing as it might have been a week or so ago. With that being said, I think getting right back on the ice, at home no less, on Wednesday is a good thing for Los Angeles. It seemed like the Kings were caught a little flat-footed last night and perhaps the late scratch of Kevin Fiala (he missed a team meeting) played a factor. It won't be difficult for Los Angeles to get back up for this contest after Vegas rolled to a 6-1 win in the last matchup between the two. The Knights enter this game riding a four-game winning streak but all four of those contests came at home. They've gone 0-2-1 on the road this season while the Kings are 2-0 on home ice. Take Los Angeles (8*).

Metropolitan Division Game of the Month. My selection is on New York over Washington at 7:35 pm et on Tuesday.

The Capitals had their five-game winning streak snapped on Saturday as they fell 3-0 in Tampa. I won't hesitate to place the Caps in the 'over-achieving' category in the early stages of this season as they've posted five wins in their first seven games. The Rangers check in off a 2-1 victory over the Ducks on home ice on Sunday. They're 6-1-1 and looking very much like a contender in the Eastern Conference again this season. This is a key spot for New York as it will be idle until Friday following this contest. Note that New York checks in 4-0 on the road this season where it has outscored the opposition by a 22-5 margin. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Philadelphia over Montreal at 7:05 pm et on Sunday.

The floodgates finally opened for the Flyers as they skated to a 7-5 home win over the Wild in a matinee affair yesterday. Meanwhile, the Canadiens delivered a much-needed 5-2 win over the Blues on home ice last night. With a six-game losing skid still fresh in the Flyers minds, I look for them to put a lot of emphasis on stringing together a second straight victory on Sunday as they look to make up for lost time following a miserable start to the campaign. I'm sure a 9-3 loss to the Canadiens in the most recent meeting in this series last April will be brought to light by Philadelphia head coach John Tortorella as well. Montreal continues to deal with a cluster of injuries and last night's win marked its first victory in five games. With backup goaltender Cayden Primeau expected between the pipes for the Habs (he owns a 4.21 goals against average and .880 save percentage this season), we'll lay the chalk with the Flyers. Take Philadelphia (8*).

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

The Maple Leafs are in free-fall mode right now, coming off consecutive lopsided defeats on the road against the Blue Jackets and at home against the Blues. I think they're in the wrong place at the wrong time on Saturday as they take on a Bruins squad that stumbled in its first game back home following a three-game road trip, falling 5-2 at the hands of the Stars. The Leafs and Bruins are of course familiar foes, seemingly meeting on an annual basis in the postseason. While Toronto would like to exact an ounce of revenge after dropping Game 7 in overtime in Boston last Spring, I believe it will have to wait for another matchup. The price is right to back the B's at home on Saturday. Take Boston (8*).

My selection is on Vegas over Ottawa at 6:05 pm et on Friday.

We'll back the Golden Knights once again on Friday as they look to keep their undefeated home record intact. Meanwhile, the Senators check in off a 4-0 victory in Utah on Tuesday. Ottawa is coming off consecutive wins but the jury is still out on how well it will play on the road this season. Note that this will be just its third road game of the season (1-1 so far). The Knights will have revenge on their minds on Friday as the Senators skated to a 4-3 win the last time these two non-conference foes squared off last February. Take Vegas (8*).

Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Vegas over Los Angeles at 11 pm et on Tuesday.

The Golden Knights will be happy to be back home following a disappointing 0-3 road trip. Keep in mind, Vegas had gotten off to a 3-0 start with each of those victories coming on home ice. The Kings have made the most of their season-opening seven-game road trip, going 3-1-2. Of course, it didn't come without a cost as they lost starting goaltender Darcy Kuemper to a lower body injury. Backup David Rittich has held his own posting a 2.37 goals against average and .891 save percentage but I don't expect him to fare well against the high-powered Knights offense on Tuesday. It's interesting to note that these two division rivals haven't met since last December. I look for Vegas to gain the upper hand in the first meeting of 24-25. Take Vegas (10*).

My selection is on Dallas over Washington at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Capitals surprised the Golden Knights, jumping all over them early in an eventual 4-2 victory two nights ago. That evened Washington's record at 1-1. The Caps will face a more difficult challenge on Thursday as they host the undefeated Stars (4-0). While Dallas remains perfect on the season, it can't be too pleased with the way its most recent game played out as it narrowly avoided an upset loss at home against lowly San Jose (it needed overtime to win that contest). I expect the Stars to treat this as a business trip as they head to Washington for one game before returning home to host Edmonton on Saturday. I simply feel Dallas is the better team in this matchup and at a reasonable price, we'll fade the Caps off that upset win on Tuesday. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Calgary over Chicago at 9 pm et on Tuesday.

The Flames are off to a hot start (no pun intended), winning each of their first three games. I like their chances of keeping it rolling on Tuesday as they host the Blackhawks. While Calgary has played two of its first three games on the road, it hasn't had to travel all that far, opening in Vancouver last Wednesday and making the short trip to Edmonton to face the rival Oilers on Sunday. Chicago has to be fairly pleased with its 1-1-1 start. It defeated the aforementioned Oilers 5-2 on Saturday. I'm certain that Chicago will have one eye on a trip back home where it will play four straight games, beginning on Wednesday against San Jose. Take Calgary (8*).

My selection is on Colorado over New York at 9 pm et on Monday.

Avalanche legend Patrick Roy returns to the Colorado as head coach of the Islanders on Monday night. The Isles are off to an 0-1-1 start and check in off a shutout defeat in Dallas on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Avs are 0-2 and will look to bounce back from an embarrassing 6-4 loss at home against the Blue Jackets two nights ago. While forward depth was thought to be Colorado's biggest issue out of the gate this season, it has been its putrid defensive play that has been most concerning. The Avs have allowed 14 goals through two games. I see this as a 'get right' spot in that regard. Colorado is in the midst of a four-game homestand but the turnaround needs to happen here as a tougher matchup with the Bruins is up next. Take Colorado (8*).

My selection is on Ottawa over Los Angeles at 1:05 pm et on Monday.

The Kings started their season with a road win in Buffalo and then collected a point in an overtime defeat in Boston on Saturday. I'm not a big fan of the make-up of this Los Angeles squad - it has gotten a little stale to put it bluntly. The Senators are in a fine bounce-back spot here following Saturday's lopsided defeat in Montreal. This is a team that needs to reach the playoffs this year to validate its current roster composition is working. With that being said, this is the type of spot where Ottawa needs to collect two points and I'm confident it will. Take Ottawa (8*).

My selection is on Buffalo over New Jersey at 10:05 am et on Saturday.

It's not easy to click the bet button in support of the Sabres after the Devils dominated yesterday's front half of this back-to-back set in Prague. We'll do precisely that, however, as it's a whole lot easier for the losing side to refocus and lock in for Game 2. Buffalo certainly doesn't want to head back to North America empty handed and I saw enough positives in yesterday's contest to warrant backing them at an underdog price on Saturday. Take Buffalo (8*).

Game of the Week. My selection is on Florida over Edmonton at 8:20 pm et on Friday.

While it may seem strange to say, I do think some of the pressure shifts back to the Oilers in advance of Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final on Friday.

Edmonton was clearly playing with house money in Game 5 on Tuesday. Few expected it to stave off elimination in Game 4 but it did, in resounding fashion. Fewer still thought the Oilers would manage to come away victorious on the road in Game 5. But they did. Now heading back home the Oilers have plenty of believers.

As much as the Panthers would like to clinch the Stanley Cup on home ice, a Friday night in Edmonton will have to do. It was easy to take things for granted after building a 3-0 series lead but not so much now. This is the game the Panthers need to have as we all know anything can happen in Game 7. I fully expect Florida to come with that sense of urgency that it seemed to lack in the last two games. Take Florida (10*).

My selection is on Edmonton over Florida at 8 pm et on Thursday.

Any time most believe the outcome of a playoff series is a foregone conclusion, as is the case here with the Panthers ahead 2-0 following a dominant 4-1 victory in Game 2, you should probably look to go the other way. That's precisely what we'll do on Thursday as the Oilers return home in what amounts to a must-win game in front of the home faithful.

Edmonton is 6-1 when coming off consecutive road losses this season. It is also 4-1 when coming off consecutive games in which it scored one goal or less over the last three seasons including a 1-0 mark in that situation this season.

There's not a lot I can point to at the detriment of the Panthers. They've looked like a team on a mission throughout these playoffs after falling just short in last year's Stanley Cup Final. While I do expect them to ultimately win this series, I expect Edmonton to make things at least a little bit interesting with a victory on Thursday. Take Edmonton (8*).

My selection is on Edmonton over Florida at 8 pm et on Monday.

There's no reason for the Oilers to push the panic button after dropping Game 1 of this series by a 3-0 score on Saturday. We won with the Panthers in that contest but will switch gears and back Edmonton in Game 2 on Tuesday.

The Oilers quite simply dominated the series-opener., holding a 32-18 advantage in terms of shots on goal. While Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky looked unbeatable, I'm not ready to say that he's in the Oilers heads just yet.

Note that Edmonton has gone 2-0 when coming off a shutout loss this season and 4-0 when trailing in a playoff series. The Oilers are also 3-0 this season when seeking revenge for a shutout loss against an opponent.

Florida continues to play with a rather small margin for error having scored three goals or less in four straight and nine of its last 10 games overall. Keep in mind, the Panthers have only managed to split the first two games in each of their last two series. Take Edmonton (8*).

Stanley Cup Final Game of the Year. My selection is on Florida over Edmonton at 8 pm et on Saturday.

The Panthers were just in this position last year, albeit starting the Stanley Cup Final on the road against the Golden Knights. While Edmonton has become a trendy pick to win this series and deliver the first Stanley Cup from a Canadian team since 1993, Florida figures to have something to say about that. Regardless, I like the Panthers to gain the upper hand in Game 1 on Saturday in Sunrise.

Keep in mind, the Oilers are just 28-23 on the road this season, where they've played with an incredibly slim margin for error, averaging 3.1 goals per game while giving up 3.0. What you see is what you get here in the postseason as Edmonton as save for a 6-1 win in Game 3 of its opening round series in Los Angeles, all of its road tilts have been nip-and-tuck affairs with the Oilers going 5-3 in their last eight road contests with just one victory by more than a single goal.

Florida on the other hand has been downright dominant on home ice this season, going 32-18 while outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 0.7 goals.

This series figures to be a long one - like the NBA Finals, both literally and figuratively. With that being said, I'm not sure we'll see a much better spot than this with the Panthers loose and rested, confident having been on this stage just last year. Take Florida (10*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on New York over Florida at 8 pm et on Saturday.

The Panthers have been the better team in this series. That much is clear. With that being said, the Rangers are no 'easy out' and are long-term winners when trailing in a playoff series (8-3, +4.8 net games last three seasons) and when facing elimination from the postseason (6-2, +4.2 net games last three seasons). Meanwhile, the Panthers are just 2-2 (-1.5 net games) when attempting to close out a series in these playoffs. Also note that New York checks in 12-1 when coming off a home loss this season and 9-0 after being held to two goals or less in consecutive games, as is the case here. Despite not bringing its 'A' game other than for brief stretches, the Rangers have still been in every game with the exception of the series-opener. I simply feel this price is too high on Saturday. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Dallas over Edmonton at 8:30 pm et on Friday.

I generally find that it's a tall task for road teams in Game 5 of a playoff series when coming off a win Game 4 that knotted a series at two games apiece. That's the situation the Oilers are in here after they rallied from a 2-0 deficit to deliver a 5-2 victory on Wednesday in what was essentially a must-win game. Noting that no team has won consecutive games in this matchup going back over the last seven meetings, I'll back the Stars to rebound on Friday. Note that Dallas is 30-12 (+15.5 net games) over the last three seasons when coming off a game in which it allowed five goals or more including an 11-1 mark in that situation this season. You'd be hard-pressed to find a team that's better when coming off a defeat than the Stars as they're a long-term 554-409 (+95.5 net games) in that spot including 75-43 (+15.4 net games) over the last three seasons and 25-11 (+9.8 net games) this season. Meanwhile, the Oilers are just an even 12-12 (-9.2 net games) after scoring five goals or more in their previous game this season. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Florida over New York at 8 pm et on Thursday.

The Rangers were that close to pushing the Panthers to the brink of elimination two nights ago in Sunrise but ultimately fell in overtime and now this series is knotted at two games apiece with the scene shifting back on Manhattan on Thursday. I still feel Florida is the better team in this series and due to New York playing at home, we're being offered a reasonable price to back the Panthers in this spot. Note that the Rangers are a long-term loser when coming off an overtime loss including 10-13 (-8.6 net games) over the last three season and 1-2 this season. The Panthers check in 63-31 (+17.7 net games) in their last 94 contests following a home victory including a 23-7 (+13.2 net games) mark in that situation this season. Take Florida (8*).

My selection is on Florida over New York at 8 pm et on Tuesday.

The Rangers prevailed in overtime in Game 3 of this series on Sunday. I still feel the Panthers are the better team and fully expect them to bounce back on home ice on Tuesday. Note that New York is just 9-13 (-12 net games) this season after scoring five goals or more in its previous game, as is the case here. Meanwhile, Florida checks in 35-20 (+4.6 net games) after giving up five goals or more in its previous contest over the last three seasons and 11-4 (+3.4 net games) this season after a one-goal defeat. While Florida should remain confident even if it does happen to be facing elimination heading back to New York for Game 5, that's a fate it will certainly look to avoid and noting the Panthers are 30-18 on home ice this season, allowing just 2.6 goals per game, I'll call for them to prevail on Tuesday. Take Florida (8*).

My selection is on Dallas over Edmonton at 8:30 pm et on Monday.

The Stars have been an outstanding road team all season and certainly in these playoffs, where they've gone 5-1 away from home. Much of the pressure shifts to Edmonton now as the series heads north with the Oilers coming off a 3-1 loss in Game 2. I think that serves Dallas well here. We've yet to see the Stars bust out offensively in this series but this is as good a spot as any as they'll need to contend with an Oilers squad that averages 4.2 goals per game on home ice this season. I like Dallas' goaltending and defensive edge more than anything else in this series and will gladly back it at a generous price in Game 3 on Monday. Take Dallas (8*).

Western Conference Final Game of the Year. My selection is on Dallas over Edmonton at 8 pm et on Saturday.

The Oilers took Game 1 of this series on Thursday night but needed double-overtime to do so. That outcome continued a concerning trend for the Stars as they're now 0-3 in Game 1 of a series in these playoffs and 0-7 over the last three seasons. I do expect Dallas to bounce back in Game 2 on Saturday. There should be no panic in these Stars as they boast more than enough veteran leadership - guys that have been here before. There's been very little separating these two teams all season, and certainly since January 1st as they've been the two best teams in the Western Conference. Knowing winning four of the next five games against a team as good as the Oilers would be an unenviable task, I look for the Stars to go all out in an effort to even this series on home ice on Saturday. Take Dallas (10*).

Eastern Conference Final Game of the Year. My selection is on New York over Florida at 8 pm et on Friday.

The Panthers were quite simply the better team in Game 1 of this series, skating to a 3-0 victory. While they've undoubtedly been road warriors in these playoffs, I do expect the Rangers to answer back on home ice on Friday. New York can certainly ill afford to head to Sunrise down 2-0 in this series as winning four of the next five games against a team as deep and talented as the Panthers would be an unenviable and likely impossible task. While I mentioned in my analysis of Game 1 that this is usually the time where New York folds, I do think this year's team is a little different and does have that ability to punch back. The fact that the Panthers are short favorites at the time of writing is an overreaction to the Game 1 result in my opinion. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Florida over New York at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

The Panthers have proven to be road warriors in these playoffs, going 4-1 in enemy territory and they'll look to gain the upper hand and a win a series-opener for a third straight time as they head to Manhattan to face the Rangers on Wednesday. It doesn't get much better than Florida's 30-16 road record this season, where it has allowed just 2.4 goals per game. To say the Panthers are locked-in defensively right now would be an understatement. They've gone 18-4 (+13.7 net games) over the last three seasons when holding five straight opponents to two goals or less, as is the case here, including an 11-1 (+10 net games) mark in that situation this season. The Rangers have enjoyed recent playoff success but this is usually where things go a little sideways. They've gone a long-term 12-18 (-9.1 net games) in their last 30 games played in the conference final round including a 2-4 (-1.9 net games) record over the last three seasons. Take Florida (8*).

My selection is on Edmonton over Vancouver at 9 pm et on Monday.

It's been a phenomenal run for the Canucks this season but I think it ends tonight in Game 7 against the Oilers. Edmonton laid waste to Vancouver in a must-win Game 6 on home ice on Saturday. Now the Canucks will have to deal with the sudden absence of Brock Boeser as he deals with a blood clot issue. We already saw what can happen when a team loses a player without warning during a postseason run as the Avalanche were completely derailed after Valeri Nichushkin was suspended in the middle of their series against Dallas. I simply feel the Oilers are the better team in this matchup, dominating for stretches even if the results haven't always been there. Note that Edmonton checks in 44-10 (+25.4 net games) after allowing one goal or less in its previous game over the last three seasons including a 19-6 (+5.9 net games) record in that situation this season. Meanwhile, Vancouver is just 16-24 (-10.9 net games) when seeking revenge for a loss in which it scored one goal or less against an opponent including a 7-8 (-4.1 net games) mark in that spot this season. Take Edmonton (8*).

My selection is on Edmonton over Vancouver at 8 pm et on Saturday.

This has been a back-and-forth series all the way and now the onus is on the Oilers to rebound as they face elimination returning home for Game 6. We'll note again that the Canucks are 8-14 (-7.2 net games) when coming off a one-goal win over a divisional opponent over the last three seasons, as is the case here, including a 2-6 (-6.0 net games) mark in that situation this season. Meanwhile, the Oilers are 36-19 (+9.2 net games) when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent including a 14-7 (+3.8 net games) record in that spot this season. Take Edmonton (8*).

My selection is on Dallas over Colorado at 10 pm et on Friday.

The Stars let the Avalanche off the hook in Game 5 of this series on Wednesday, blowing a 2-1 late second period lead on their way to a 5-3 defeat on home ice. They'll look to regroup and close out Colorado on the road on Friday and I'm confident they'll do exactly that. Note that the Stars fall into an incredible situation here as they're a long-term 128-59 (+72.6 net games) when coming off a loss by two goals or more against a divisional opponent including 12-2 (+9.7 net games) over the last three seasons and 4-0 this season. Dallas also checks in an incredible 10-1 after giving up five goals or more in its previous game this season. Meanwhile, Colorado is just 7-7 (-5.0 net games) when coming off a win by two goals or more over a divisional foe this season. Take Dallas (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on New York over Carolina at 7 pm et on Thursday.

We were on the Hurricanes the last time these two teams matched up in Raleigh in Game 4 and then switched gears and backed the 'under' in Game 5. Now this series is improbably headed for a Game 6 back in Carolina on Thursday after the Hurricanes stunned the Rangers in Manhattan on Monday. I like New York's chances of avoiding the dice roll that is a seventh and deciding Game 7, however, as it looks to close out Carolina once again on Thursday. Note that the Blueshirts are 26-13 (+9.0 net games) when coming off consecutive losses over the last three seasons including a 6-2 (+2.7 net games) record in that situation this season. They're also 24-13 (+4.1 net games) after suffering a loss by three goals or more over the last three seasons including a 10-4 (+3.8 net games) mark in that spot this season. Meanwhile, Carolina is 15-17 (-13.3 net games) when coming off consecutive victories and 4-5 (-4.5 net games) when coming off a road win over a divisional foe this season. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Edmonton over Vancouver at 9:30 pm et on Tuesday.

The Canucks stunned the Oilers on Sunday and now have the opportunity to take full control of the series before it shifts back to Vancouver for Game 5. I don't expect Edmonton to go down without a fight, however, and look for it to rebound here at home in Game 4. Note that Vancouver is 8-13 (-6.2 net games) when coming off a one-goal victory over a divisional opponent over the last three seasons, as is the case here, including a 2-5 (-5.0 net games) record in that situation this season. Meanwhile, the Oilers are 68-37 (+18.6 net games) when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent as a favorite including a 25-12 (+7.2 net games) mark in that spot this season. Take Edmonton (8*).

Central Division Game of the Week. My selection is on Colorado over Dallas at 9:30 pm et on Monday.

The Stars have taken back control of this series thanks to winning Games 2 and 3. Note that you would have to go back to 2019-20 to find the last time the Stars won three straight meetings with the Avalanche (part of a four-game streak). I look for Colorado to answer back on Monday. Dallas is 3-9 (-10.0 net games) after scoring four goals or more in a win over a division opponent over the last three seasons including an 0-3 (-5.8 net games) record in that situation this season. The Stars are also a long-term 28-31 (-14.3 net games) after giving up one goal or less in their previous game including a 7-12 (-12.0 net games) mark this season. Meanwhile, Colorado checks in 23-11 (+7.5 net games) when seeking revenge for a loss by three goals or more against an opponent, as is the case here, including a 10-4 (+4.8 net games) record this season. The Avs are also 23-10 (+11.2 net games) when coming off consecutive losses over the last three seasons including a 9-3 (+6.0 net games) mark in that spot this season. Take Colorado (10*).

Eastern Conference Second Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Carolina over New York at 7 pm et on Saturday.

The Rangers are well on their way to advancing to the Eastern Conference Final following a thrilling overtime victory in Raleigh on Thursday. It's highly unlikely the Hurricanes are going to reel off four straight victories in this difficult matchup. I do think they're capable of making a series of it, however, and that begins with earning a victory at home to stave off elimination on Saturday. All three games in this series have been decided by a single goal with the last two Rangers victories coming by way of overtime. There's obviously not a lot separating these Metropolitan Division rivals. New York has now won four straight matchups between these two teams and that's notable as it hasn't reeled off five straight wins in the series since 2019-20. Note that Carolina is 14-2 (+10.6 net games) when coming off a home loss against a divisional opponent over the last three seasons including a 5-0 mark in that situation this season. The Canes are also a long-term 113-97 (+14.6 net games) when coming off three straight losses including a 2-1 record in that spot this season. The Rangers, meanwhile, are a long-term 5-15 (-12.7 net games) when coming off three straight one-goal victories including a 1-2 (-1.6 net games) mark this season. Take Carolina (10*).

Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Edmonton over Vancouver at 10 pm et on Friday.

The Canucks rallied from a 4-1 deficit late in the second period to defeat the Oilers 5-4 in Game 1 of this series on Wednesday. That's been a common theme in these playoffs with no lead proving safe. I look for Edmonton to bounce back on Friday as it looks to even this series at one game apiece before the scene shifts to Alberta for Game 3. Note that the Oilers are 31-16 (+8.9 net games) when seeking revenge for a loss in which their opponent scored five goals or more over the last three seasons including a 13-7 (+2.9 net games) mark in that situation this season. Edmonton is also a long-term 25-23 (+5.9 net games) when trailing a playoff series including a 7-4 (+2.6 net games) record over the last three seasons. Meanwhile, the Canucks are just 8-12 (-5.2 net games) when coming off a one-goal victory over a divisional opponent over the last three seasons including a 2-4 (-4.0 net games) mark in that spot this season. Vancouver has been one of the league's best teams all season but is just 14-14 (-4.0 net games) when coming off consecutive victories. Take Edmonton (10*).

Second Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Dallas over Colorado at 9:30 pm et on Thursday.

To say the Stars let the Avalanche off the hook in Game 1 would be an understatement. Dallas led that game by a 3-0 score before going scoreless the rest of the way in an eventual overtime defeat. It was a sour start to a series once again for the Stars after they dropped Games 1 and 2 at home against the Golden Knights last round. I expect Dallas to bounce back in Game 2 this time around, however. Note that the Stars are 72-43 (+12.4 net games) in their last 115 games following a loss including a 22-11 (+6.8 net games) record in that situation this season. They're also a long-term 42-28 (+14.0 net games) when trailing in a playoff series including a 10-4 (+5.9 net games) mark in that spot over the last three seasons. Colorado is still just 22-23 on the road this season where it has allowed 3.5 goals per game. Dallas checks in 28-18 on home ice, giving up just 3.0 goals per contest (while averaging 3.6). Take Dallas (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Dallas over Vegas at 7:30 pm et on Sunday.

You play for home ice advantage in the playoffs all season long and that's what the Stars have on Sunday as they host Vegas in a seventh-and-deciding game in the opening round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Golden Knights staved off elimination with a 2-0 win over the Stars in Game 6 on Friday. Note that Dallas is 71-43 (+11.4 net games) when coming off a loss over the last three seasons including a 21-11 (+5.8 net games) record in that situation this season. The Knights are 0-3 this season when coming off a shutout victory, as is the case here. Nothing has come easy for either team in this series but I look for the Stars to rise the occasion in Game 7. Take Dallas (10*).

My selection is on Vegas over Dallas at 10 pm et on Friday.

The Stars have impressively rallied from a 2-0 series deficit to push the Golden Knights to the brink of elimination thanks to three straight wins. Keep in mind, every game in this series has been close. I don't think Vegas will fold the tent as it returns home with an eye on forcing a seventh and deciding game in this series. Note that the Knights are 25-13 (+7.9 net games) all-time when coming off three or more consecutive losses including 12-6 (+5.2 net games) over the last three seasons and 5-2 (+1.8 net games) this season. Meanwhile, the Stars are just 20-21 (-8.9 net games) in their last 41 contests following three or more consecutive victories including a 9-8 (-3.3 net games) record in that spot this season. When seeking revenge for three straight losses against an opponent, the Knights have gone 5-1 (+5.0 net games) over the last three seasons and 16-9 (+6.0 net games) in franchise history. Take Vegas (8*).

Eastern Conference First Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Boston over Toronto at 8 pm et on Thursday.

The Bruins let the Maple Leafs off the hook in Game 5 of this series in Boston, failing to clinch their spot in the second round. They'll get another opportunity to do so on Thursday and I look for them to take full advantage this time around. Note that Boston is 28-10 (+14.4 net games) in its last 38 games when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent by one goal including a 12-4 (+6.6 net games) record in that situation this season. The Bruins are also 16-5 (+8.2 net games) when coming off a home loss by a single goal including a 6-3 (+0.8 net games) mark this season. Meanwhile, Toronto staved off elimination on Tuesday but is still a long-term 12-13 (-2.1 net games) when facing elimination in a playoff series. Take Boston (10*).

My selection is on Nashville over Vancouver at 10 pm et on Tuesday.

The Predators let the Canucks off the hook in Game 4 of this series, blowing a 3-1 lead with three minutes remaining before giving up the game-winning goal early in overtime. I don't think Nashville is finished just yet, however, as the scene shifts to Vancouver for Game 5 on Tuesday. Note that the Predators have thrived in similar situations in the past. Nashville is 43-31 (+14.2 net games) over the last three seasons when seeking revenge for a loss in which its opponent scored four goals or more, as is the case here. It has gone 18-7 (+12.2 net games) in that situation this season. The Preds are also 10-5 (+4.9 net games) when coming off consecutive losses this season. The Canucks are a long-term 8-13 (-9.2 net games) when attempting to close out a series. They're 1-2 (-2.2 net games) when coming off consecutive one-goal victories this season. Take Nashville (8*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Edmonton at 10:30 pm et on Sunday.

We won with the Kings in Game 2 of this series and the Oilers in Game 3. I'll switch gears once again and back Los Angeles as it looks to bounce back from a 6-1 drubbing two nights ago. Note that the Oilers are a long-term loser at 73-83 (-29.2 net games) in their last 156 games after scoring six goals or more in their previous contest including a 6-8 (-8.0 net games) mark in that situation this season. The Kings are 50-36 (+26.4 net games) in their last 86 games when seeking revenge for a loss by four goals or more against an opponent. Additionally, Los Angeles is a perfect 3-0 this season when coming off a game in which it allowed six or more goals. Take Los Angeles (8*).

First Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Edmonton over Los Angeles at 10:30 pm et on Friday.

A back-and-forth series was to be expected between these familiar divisional foes - meeting for the third time in as many years in the opening round of the playoffs. Here, we'll look for the Oilers to rebound following Wednesday's overtime loss at home. Credit Edmonton for battling back on multiple occasions in that game after digging an early 2-0 hole. The Oilers are well-positioned to bounce back on Friday noting that they've gone 29-14 (+9.7 net games) in their last 43 games following a loss by a single goal. They're also 30-16 (+7.9 net games) when seeking revenge for a loss in which they allowed five goals or more, as is the case here. The Kings are just 19-26 (-11.2 net games) in their last 45 contest after scoring four goals or more in consecutive games, which is the situation on Friday. Finally, we'll note that the Oilers are 8-4 (+2.5 net games) in their last 12 meetings here in Los Angeles. Take Edmonton (10*).

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

The Kings got schooled in the opener of this series on Monday, allowing seven goals in a lopsided defeat. I do think we see them bounce back in Game 2 on Wednesday, noting they've gone 48-33 (+16.2 net games) when seeking revenge for a same season loss against an opponent over the last three seasons. Over the same stretch, Los Angeles has gone 10-7 (+4.2 net games) in triple-revenge situations, as is the case here. The Oilers are 9-16 (-18.4 net games) after giving up four goals or more in their previous contest this season. They're also just 10-11 (-9.4 net games) after scoring five goals or more in their previous game this season. All is not lost for the Kings following that setback in Game 1. For road teams in the first two games of a playoff series, it's always all about earning a split at the very least. I'm confident the Kings can accomplish that on Wednesday and we're being offered a generous return. Take Los Angeles (8*).

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Vancouver over Nashville at 10 pm et on Sunday.

The Canucks dropped their regular season finale in Winnipeg but I look for them to bounce back in Game 1 of their opening round series against the Predators. This is more of a mismatch than the line indicates in my opinion. Nashville made a late push but was really only a mediocre Western Conference team all season. Vancouver on the other hand was a front-runner for much of the way before Dallas ultimately overtook it for the top spot in the West. Note that the Preds are just 9-13 (-4.1 net games) in their last 23 Game 1's while the Canucks are 22-9 (+10.1 net games) off a loss this season. Take Vancouver (10*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Dallas at 9:35 pm et on Wednesday.

With their opening round matchup out of their hands, I don't anticipate seeing the Stars go 'all out' to win in their home finale on Wednesday. The Blues are playing for nothing at this point but they certainly want to close out a non-playoff season on a high note and have been playing reasonably well over the last month or so, particularly on the road where they're 4-2 in their last six games going back to March 11th. We'll certainly take a flyer on the Blues at this price, noting they're 2-0-1 in this series this season. Take St. Louis (8*).

My selection is on Columbus over Carolina at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

With the Rangers wrapping up top spot in the Eastern Conference (and the Metropolitan Division) last night, the Hurricanes will play a relatively meaningless game to wrap up their regular season on Tuesday in Columbus. The Blue Jackets limp in off an 0-4 road trip that began with a 3-0 loss to these same Canes in Raleigh. Columbus has definitely been a more competitive team at home lately, securing wins over the Golden Knights, Oilers, Penguins and Avalanche among others since the beginning of March. While I don't anticipate Carolina simply rolling over in its regular season finale, I do think the Jackets are well worth a shot at such a lofty price. While the Canes are 3-0 on their current road trip, they have lost close to four in every 10 games on the road this season. Take Columbus (8*).

My selection is on Buffalo over Tampa Bay at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

While the Sabres have been eliminated from playoff contention, they ended up closer than you might think to clinching a spot in the postseason, sitting just five points back of the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference. Buffalo dropped the first game of its two-game Florida jaunt with a 3-2 defeat against the Panthers in Sunrise on Saturday but I look for it to bounce back here. Tampa Bay is already locked into the first Wild Card spot in the East and enters this contest off consecutive losses. It will wrap up its regular season with a home game against the Maple Leafs on Wednesday. Buffalo is 2-1 in this series this season and has won its last two stops in Tampa. It's hard not to like the return being offered with the upstart Sabres here. Take Buffalo (8*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Pittsburgh over Toronto at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

This is undoubtedly a game the Penguins have had circled on their calendar since dropping a 7-0 decision here in Toronto back in December. Pittsburgh has inexplicably caught fire down the stretch, winning four straight and six of its last seven games after most had written it off. The Pens are now in the thick of the Eastern Conference playoff race and I look for them to deliver another improbable win on Monday. The Leafs are coming off a 4-2 victory over the rival Canadiens in Montreal on Saturday. They return home where they're just 4-4 over their last eight games. Note that Pittsburgh is 19-13 (+3.4 net games) in its last 32 contests when seeking revenge for a loss by two goals or more against an opponent including a 7-5 (+2.2 net games) mark in that situation this season. Take Pittsburgh (10*).

My selection is on Edmonton over Dallas at 9:35 pm et on Wednesday.

The Oilers dropped an overtime decision in St. Louis two nights ago but I look for them to earn a split on this two-game road trip with a victory in Dallas on Wednesday. The Stars are red hot, winners of seven games in a row. Keep in mind, only two of those victories came against teams currently in playoff position. The Oilers are a quality road team at 21-17 this season and the visitors have taken four of the last five meetings in this series. Take Edmonton (8*).

Metropolitan Division Game of the Year. My selection is on New Jersey over Pittsburgh at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Devils have undoubtedly been eager to get back on the ice following Friday's 5-2 loss in Buffalo. Since then, the Penguins have played twice, losing in Columbus but winning in upset fashion last night in Manhattan. New Jersey probably didn't mind seeing that result on Monday as the Pens looked like they poured everything they had into that matchup. The Devils have certainly had Pittsburgh's number lately, securing seven straight wins in the series. In fact, they've scored five goals in each of the last four matchups between these two teams. I'm comfortable laying the mid-range price with the home side on Tuesday. Take New Jersey (10*).

My selection is on Philadelphia over Montreal at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

We'll fade the Canadiens off their big upset win in Colorado two nights ago. They're not in an ideal spot on Thursday as they return home on just one day of rest following a five-game western road trip. Note that Montreal is 5-15 (-6.9 net games) in its last 20 games following consecutive wins, as is the case here, including an 0-5 (-5.0 net games) record in that situation this season. The Flyers took the most recent meeting between these teams and that's notable as Montreal is 26-67 (-21.0 net games) in its last 93 contests when seeking revenge for a same season loss against an opponent including a 3-19 (-14.6 net games) mark in that spot this season. Philadelphia will look to bounce back following consecutive losses noting that it is 11-6 (+6.4 net games) in that situation this season. Take Philadelphia (8*).

My selection is on Florida over Nashville at 7:35 pm et on Thursday.

The Predators enter this game on the heels of three straight wins to give themselves considerable breathing room in the Western Conference playoff race. They're now eight points ahead of the 'first team out', the Minnesota Wild, with a game-in-hand. With that being said, they're not catching the third place team in the Central Division and they have a five-point cushion over the second Wild Card team, the Vegas Golden Knights. Florida checks in on a rare losing streak having dropped each of its last two games. The Panthers can still earn a split of this brief two-game homestand before a tough back-to-back set in New York and Philadelphia on the weekend. Note that Florida is 13-3 (+10.6 net games) in its last 16 games following consecutive losses by two goals or more, as is the case here, including a perfect 4-0 (+4.6 net games) record in that situation this season. Meanwhile, Nashville is 9-14 (-7.9 net games) in its last 23 contests following a home win by three goals or more including a 2-5 (-4.4 net games) mark in that spot this season. Take Florida (8*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Minnesota at 10:05 pm et on Wednesday.

The Wild bounced back from a 3-2 loss in St. Louis with a 4-0 drubbing of the lowly Ducks last night in Anaheim. That sets them up poorly as they wrap up their three-game road trip in Los Angeles on Wednesday. Note that Minnesota is 4-7 (-5.2 net games) when coming off a shutout performance over the last three seasons and a long-term 21-30 (-10.8 net games) when following up a road shutout. The Wild are also 14-25 (-23.3 net games) when coming off a road win in which they scored four goals or more. Additionally, Minnesota is 42-52 (-15.7 net games) when seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Kings are a steady 9-6 (+1.9 net games) after scoring six goals or more in their previous contest over the last three seasons, which is the situation here following last night's 6-2 rout of the Blackhawks. Take Los Angeles (8*).

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

I've been waiting to make this play since the Avalanche rallied from a 3-0 deficit to defeat the Canucks 4-3 in overtime and improve to 2-0 on their current road trip on Wednesday. The Oilers come in rested and having been at home since wrapping up a four-game eastern road swing last Sunday. They've rattled off back-to-back wins including a 7-2 cake walk against the Capitals on Wednesday. The Avs, meanwhile, have won five games in a row and have to be feeling pretty good about themselves after opening their current trip with consecutive victories. Keep in mind, they're still just 16-19 on the road this season. Let's face it, the Canucks let them off the hook on Wednesday. I don't expect the Oilers to do the same on Saturday. Edmonton is 26-17 in its last 43 games after scoring six goals or more in its previous contest including a 5-3 mark in that situation this season. In an odd scheduling quirk, this will be the first of three matchups between these division opponents this season. Look for the Oilers to make a statement on Saturday. Take Edmonton (8*).

My selection is on Boston over Montreal at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

Not a lot of analysis is needed for this potential parlay-booster on Thursday. The Bruins got boat-raced 5-1 at the hands of the Blues three nights ago, on home ice no less. They're well-positioned to bounce back on Thursday, however, as they head out on the road to face the rival Canadiens. Of course, this rivalry has fizzled in recent years with the Bruins taking 12 of the last 13 meetings. Montreal does enter this game off a 3-0 victory over the lowly Blue Jackets two nights ago. That's put the Habs in poor position here as they're just 1-4 in five games following a shutout victory over the last three seasons including an 0-1 mark in that situation this season. Meanwhile, Boston is 55-27 in its last 82 games following a loss including a 16-12 record in that spot this season. Better still, the B's are 26-11 in their last 37 games played on two days' rest including an 8-3 mark this season. Take Boston (8*).

Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Vancouver over Colorado at 10:35 pm et on Wednesday.

The Avalanche followed up a perfect three-game homestand with a 6-2 rout of the Flames in Calgary last night. I look for them to have a more difficult time as they continue west to face the Canucks in Vancouver on Wednesday. Note that Colorado has now won three straight meetings in this series including both previous matchups this season. The Avs haven't won four straight games against the Canucks since an eight-game win streak in the series way back in 2007-08. The Canucks enter this game off a mini-bye having not played since Saturday. They're riding a four-game winning streak and check in 21-9 on home ice this season, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.3 goals. They'll be without starting goaltender Thatcher Demko for an extended period which means it's up to Casey DeSmith to hold the fort. While he's not the long-term answer, I do think he's a capable back-up. The Avs, despite their recent success, are still just 15-19 on the road this season. Take Vancouver (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Anaheim over Chicago at 8:35 pm et on Tuesday.

The Ducks are coming off consecutive lopsided losses on home ice against the Stars and Islanders. I look for them to bounce back as they take a rare step down in class on the road against the Blackhawks on Tuesday. Anaheim actually sits 10 points clear of basement-dwelling Chicago in the Western Conference standings. Here, the Ducks will be looking to avenge an earlier 1-0 loss in Chicago suffered back in December. Note that Anaheim is 6-8 but +3.6 net games when seeking revenge for a loss in which it scored one goal or less in this season. The Ducks are also a long-term 64-53 (+19 net games) after scoring two goals or less in four straight games, as is the case here, including a 3-2 (+2.4 net games) mark in that situation over the last three seasons. The Blackhawks delivered a 7-4 home win over the Coyotes on Sunday. That was their second win in their last three contests but both of those victories came over Arizona. Chicago is a miserable 3-15 (-10 net games) in its last 18 games following a win by three goals or more including an 0-3 mark in that situation this season. In fact, the Blackhawks are 1-15 when coming off a win of any kind this season including an 0-4 mark when that win came against a division opponent. Take Anaheim (10*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Dallas at 10:35 pm et on Saturday.

The Stars rolled to a 6-2 win in Anaheim last night, assuring themselves of a winning three-game road trip after securing a victory in San Jose two nights earlier. Here, I look for Dallas to stumble as it wraps up its trip in Los Angeles on Saturday. Note that the Stars are just 8-12 (-5.8 net games) the last 20 times they've played a second road game in as many nights. They're also 9-15 (-11.8 net games) after winning their previous game by four goals or more and a long-term 60-89 (-63.8 net games) in their last 149 contests following four straight victories, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Kings check in off an overtime win over Ottawa two nights ago. They're 15-7 (+9.5 net games) in their last 22 contests following an overtime victory. Los Angeles is also 41-26 (+17.6 net games) in its last 67 games when seeking revenge for a same season loss against an opponent, which is the situation here. Take Los Angeles (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Tampa Bay over Philadelphia at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Flyers are coming off a 2-1 road win over the Panthers on Thursday while the Lightning dropped a 6-3 decision at home against the Flames. I look for the Bolts to bounce back on Saturday as they try to stay in the mix in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Tampa Bay travelled to Philadelphia and dropped a 6-2 decision on February 27th. That was a revenge game for the Flyers after the Lightning skated to a 6-3 win in Philly in January. Here, the shoe is on the other foot and we'll note that Tampa Bay is 14-8 (+3.6 net games) in its last 22 games when seeking revenge for a road loss by four goals or more including a 4-1 (+3.4 net games) mark in that situation this season. Meanwhile, the Flyers are just 13-29 (-14.4 net games) in their last 42 games after allowing one goal or less in their previous contest and 1-6 (-5 net games) in their last seven games after holding three straight opponents to two goals or less, as is the case here. Finally, we'll note that Philadelphia hasn't won consecutive games in this series since back in 2017. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

My selection is on Detroit over Arizona at 9:05 pm et on Friday.

This game is a must for the Red Wings as they try to snap a three-game losing streak and bounce back from Wednesday's 7-2 drubbing at the hands of the Avalanche. Despite that setback, the Red Wings remain a respectable 15-15 on the road this season where they've averaged 3.3 goals per contest. Note that Detroit is a long-term 23-19 (+8.6 net games) in its last 42 contests when coming off a loss by five goals or more. This season, the Wings are a perfect 3-0 when coming off consecutive losses by three goals or more, as is the case here. Arizona finds itself in a difficult back-to-back situation after hosting the Wild last night. For Detroit, this trip only gets tougher with a stop in Las Vegas in a back-to-back spot on Saturday before travelling all the way back east to wrap things up with a game in Buffalo on Tuesday. Take Detroit (8*).

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

The Flames have taken consecutive meetings in this series but both of those games were played in Calgary. The home team has actually won seven straight matchups between these two teams and the Flames haven't prevailed in three straight meetings since way back in 1998. This is a critical homestand for the Lightning, especially after they dropped the opener against Buffalo. They did rebound with a shootout win over Montreal and have now had four days off to get ready for Calgary. Tampa Bay currently holds down the second Wild Card spot (and final playoff spot) in the Eastern Conference but has the surging Islanders and Capitals nipping at its heels, and both of those teams have multiple games-in-hand. The homestand will only get tougher for the Bolts with matchups against the Flyers and Rangers on deck. Calgary is selling prior to the trade deadline, most recently sending stud defenseman Noah Hanifin to Las Vegas on Wednesday. The Flames recently enjoyed a five-game winning streak but proceeded to drop a 4-2 decision at home against the Kraken two nights ago. Note that Calgary is just 11-19 (-18.8 net games) in its last 30 games following a loss against a division opponent. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay is 35-23 (+6.3 net games) in its last 58 contests when seeking revenge for a loss by two goals or more against an opponent, as is the case here. The Bolts are also 61-36 (+14.1 net games) in their last 97 games against Western Conference foes including a 16-11 (+3.4 net games) record this season. Take Tampa Bay (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Edmonton over Boston at 7:35 pm et on Tuesday.

The schedule makers did the Oilers a favor in this rematch of an overtime thriller played in Edmonton two weeks ago. While the Oilers were idle on Monday giving them ample time to settle in in Boston, the Bruins were involved in a division game in Toronto, securing a 4-1 victory over the Maple Leafs. Edmonton enters this game red hot following four straight victories and it should bring confidence to the table playing in Beantown where it has won three straight meetings going back to January of 2020. In fact, the road team has prevailed in seven straight matchups in this series. Note that the Oilers are 28-16 (+8.5 net games) in their last 44 games when seeking revenge for a home loss against an opponent including a 7-3 (+2.6 net games) mark in that situation this season. Better still, Edmonton is an incredible 39-7 (+28.2 net games) in its last 46 contests after allowing one goal or less in its previous game, as is the case here, including a 14-3 (+8.7 net games) record this season. The Bruins haven't been the same dominant home team they were last season, already having lost 12 games at TD Garden. This is just the first game of a four-game homestand and I look for them to struggle in this three-in-four situation. Take Edmonton (10*).

Pacific Division Game of the Year. My selection is on Edmonton over Los Angeles at 9:35 pm et on Monday.

The Oilers are reeling on the heels of three straight losses and it all started with that wild 6-5 overtime loss at home against the Bruins last week. Note that Edmonton is in the fourth game of its five-game homestand so it needs to salvage something beginning with this division game on Monday. This will be a quick revenge spot for the Oilers after they dropped a 4-0 decision in Los Angeles on February 10th. Note that Edmonton hasn't lost consecutive meetings with Los Angeles since November of 2022 and January of 2023. It hasn't dropped consecutive matchups over the last 10 games in this series. The Kings barely escaped with a shootout victory over the lowly Ducks, at home no less, on Saturday. They've taken advantage of a favorable schedule lately to be sure, turning things around after a brutal stretch in December and January. Note that the Kings are a long-term 68-111 when playing for the eighth time in 14 days, as is the case here, including a 1-4 mark in that situation this season. Meanwhile, the Oilers are 31-18 when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent including a 9-6 record in that spot this season. Take Edmonton (10*).

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

While the Hurricanes have played well lately, the Panthers are quite simply on another level right now. Florida has won six games in a row and 10 of its last 11 overall. Whether at home or on the road that hasn't really matter one bit as the Panthers check in 20-9 away from home, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.2 goals, allowing just 2.2 goals per contest. Carolina has admittedly played well at home, sitting eight games above .500 but has given up 2.9 goals per game. This is a series the Panthers have owned, taking nine of the last 11 meetings including a four-game playoff series sweep last May. Note that Florida is 12-5 in its last 17 games following six straight victories while Carolina is just 2-3 when coming off three wins in a row this season. Take Florida (8*).

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

The Stars let the Bruins off the hook yesterday afternoon in Boston, allowing the tying goal with under two minutes remaining in the third period before losing in a shootout. I look for them to bounce back on Tuesday as they look to respond following consecutive losses. Note that Dallas is still 17-11 on the road this season, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.7 goals. The Rangers are red hot, winners of seven games in a row. Keep in mind, their recent surge has come at the expense of a number of struggling teams, including the rival Islanders in Sunday's Stadium Series matchup. New York rallied back from a late 5-3 deficit to tie the game before scoring early in the overtime period to secure the victory. Note that the Rangers are 0-3 when coming off seven straight wins over the last three seasons, and 3-9 in their last 12 contests in that situation. The Stars are 21-6 in their last 27 games after giving up four goals or more in consecutive games and a perfect 7-0 when coming off a road loss by one goal this season. Take Dallas (8*).

Metropolitan Division Game of the Month. My selection is on New York over Pittsburgh at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Penguins are reeling right now, losers of four of their last five games to fall farther out of the Eastern Conference playoff race. The Islanders are struggling as well having dropped three straight games including Sunday's heart-breaker against the Rangers outdoors at MetLife Stadium. I do think the Isles are better-positioned to bounce back right now. Here, they'll be looking for revenge after dropping both previous matchups between these two teams this season. Pittsburgh is sorely missing Jake Guentzel right now. Go up and down the Pens roster and you won't find many reliable sources for offense. Keep in mind, the Pens average only 2.7 goals per game on home ice this season while the Isles average 3.0 goals per contest on the road. Pittsburgh hasn't won three straight meetings in this series since 2021. New York checks in 29-23 in its last 52 games following a one goal loss while Pittsburgh is just 24-25 (-10.9 net games) when coming off a home loss. Take New York (10*).

Underdog Game of the Month. My selection is on Detroit over Calgary at 4:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Red Wings have dropped the first two games on their current western road trip and both of those losses came in lopsided fashion. Note that Detroit is 8-6 in its last 14 games following consecutive road losses and 12-8 in its last 20 contests following two straight road losses by three goals or more, as is the case here. The Flames had won four games in a row prior to losing their last two contests. Calgary began a potential fire sale by dealing away Elias Lindholm during the All-Star break and is essentially going nowhere this season. Note that the Flames are just 12-13 on home ice this season, averaging just 2.9 goals per game. While Detroit hasn't been any better on the road, it has at least shown more of an offensive spark, averaging 3.3 goals per contest. Calgary checks in 11-18 in its last 29 games following a loss against a division opponent and 2-9 in its last 11 contests following consecutive losses by two goals or more, which is the situation here. Take Detroit (10*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Boston over Tampa Bay at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The home team has won five straight meetings in this series and I look for that trend to continue on Tuesday. Tampa Bay is coming off a much-needed 4-2 victory in Columbus on Saturday as it snapped a two-game losing streak. The Lightning are still 11-17 on the road this season where they've been outscored by an average margin of 0.7 goals. Boston checks in 17-9 on home ice but is coming off an ugly 3-0 defeat at the hands of the Capitals at TD Garden on Saturday. Note the Bruins have outscored the opposition by an average margin of 1.1 goals here at home this season. The Bolts have had plenty of success in recent years but they're just 19-20 in their last 39 games following a road victory by two goals or more, as is the case here. The Bruins on the other hand are 7-2 in their last nine games after suffering a home loss by three goals or more and a perfect 5-0 in their last five contests after getting shut out in their previous game. Take Boston (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Winnipeg over Philadelphia at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Jets fell behind early and never recovered in a 3-0 loss in Pittsburgh on Tuesday. That marked their fourth straight loss having scored just three goals over that stretch. I do like their chances of bouncing back on Thursday, however, as they look for revenge after dropping a 2-0 decision at home against the Flyers in mid-January. Despite Tuesday's setback, Winnipeg remains 14-9 on the road this season where it has held the opposition to just 2.3 goals per contest. In stark contrast, Philadelphia is 11-14 on home ice, allowing 3.3 goals per game. Note that the Jets are 8-3 in their last 11 games when seeking revenge for a shutout loss against an opponent. They're also 21-17 in their last 38 contests following a loss by three goals or more. Meanwhile, the Flyers are just 5-11 in their last 16 games after recording a one-goal win on the road, as is the case here. Philadelphia is also a miserable 11-28 in its last 39 contests after holding its previous opponent to one goal or less. Take Winnipeg (10*).

My selection is on Toronto over Dallas at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday.

The Stars were on the ice in Buffalo last night and while a 2-1 regulation time victory doesn't appear all that taxing at first glance, it's worth noting that they were outshot 48-30 and spent a lot of the night chasing the Sabres around in their own zone. Now they make the short trip to Toronto where you have to figure the Maple Leafs will be in a foul mood after dropping a 3-2 decision against the Islanders on Monday. Toronto should be happy to see Dallas as it has won five straight meetings in this series. In fact, you would have to go all the way back to pre-Covid days in February of 2020 to find the last time the Stars won a game in this series. Dallas is currently approaching uncharted territory as it checks in off four straight wins, having yet to notch five consecutive victories this season. Note that the Stars are just 5-11 in their last 16 games when seeking revenge for a home loss by three or more goals against an opponent, as is the case here. The Leafs are 23-15 in their last 38 games following a home loss and a perfect 3-0 this season when coming off a one-goal loss on home ice. Take Toronto (8*).

My selection is on Detroit over Vegas at 8:05 pm et on Saturday.

Tough spot for the Golden Knights here as they play the second of back-to-back nights for the second time this week, on the road no less. Vegas is playing well having won four of its last five games but so is Detroit. The Red Wings check in winners of eight of their last 11 contests. I think it's good for teams to get in a bit of a rhythm at this time of year and Detroit should be locked-in right now having played every second night since the 17th with this marking its fourth straight home game. The Wings are 13-11 on home ice this season where they average 3.7 goals per game. While teams are often fade material off a shutout victory (which is the situation the Wings are in here), that hasn't necessarily been the case with Detroit. It is 6-4 in its last 10 games following a shutout victory and 20-14 in its last 34 contests after a win by three goals or more, as is the case here. Detroit enters this matchup owning a slight 5-4 edge in the all-time series between these two teams. Take Detroit (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on New York over Ottawa at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Rangers are slumping right now, losers of seven of their last 10 games. I fully expect them to shake off last night's lopsided home defeat against the Golden Knights as they make the trip to Ottawa to face the Senators on Saturday. This is a game the Blueshirts have likely had circled on their calendars as they've inexplicably dropped three straight matchups with the Sens. Note that they haven't lost four games in a row against Ottawa since way back in 2006-07. Despite their recent struggles, the Rangers remain a winning team on the road at 14-12 on the campaign, allowing just 2.8 goals per game along the way. That's more than we can say for the Sens at home as they've gone 10-13, yielding 3.5 goals per contest. Ottawa enters off a 3-2 overtime loss against the Bruins on Thursday. Note that the Sens are 12-19 in their last 31 games following a loss against a division opponent. In general, Ottawa hasn't been a good bounce-back team this season, going 11-14 following a loss. Take New York (10*).

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

As if the Rangers weren't already in a foul enough mood following an upset loss in San Jose two nights ago to wrap up a disappointing 1-3 western road swing, they'll return home to host the Golden Knights on Friday - a team that drummed them 5-1 during that aforementioned road trip. I expect New York to exact some payback on Friday. A return home should be welcome for the Rangers as they're 15-6 at Madison Square Garden this season, allowing just 3.0 goals per contest. The Golden Knights, while coming off a win on Long Island two nights ago, are still just 10-13 on the road, where they've allowed 3.3 goals per game. Note that Vegas is just 4-7 when coming off a one-goal victory this season, as is the case here. The Rangers are 11-3 in their last 14 games when seeking revenge for a loss by four goals or more against an opponent. When that loss came on the road, they're a perfect 8-0 in their last eight tries. Finally, we'll note that New York is 31-19 in its last 50 games following a road loss. Take New York (8*).

Division Game of the Week. My selection is on New Jersey over Carolina at 7:35 pm et on Thursday.

This is a game the Devils have undoubtedly had circled on their calendar since bowing out in five games against the Hurricanes in last year's playoffs. New Jersey catches Carolina in a favorable spot as the Devils check in off two full days of rest while the Hurricanes just posted a big win in Boston last night (it was an emotionally-draining game as the Canes blew a 2-0 third period lead before winning 3-2). Note that New Jersey has been at its best on the road this season going 14-8 and averaging 3.6 goals per game. While the Devils are missing a number of key contributors right now, Monday's wild 6-5 overtime win over the Golden Knights surely gave them a boost of confidence heading into this brief two-game road trip. Note that New Jersey is 17-6 in its last 23 games following a one-goal victory at home. The Canes are just 5-7 when coming off a road win and 7-11 when playing their fourth game in seven days this season. Take New Jersey (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Calgary over St. Louis at 9:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Flames are off to a disappointing 1-2 start to their current homestand but I look for them to bounce back as they host the Blues on Tuesday. St. Louis took advantage of a quick revenge spot against the Capitals, skating to a 3-0 victory on Saturday after dropping a 5-2 decision in Washington two nights earlier. The Blues continue to display a strong home-road dichotomy noting they're just 8-13 away form home this season where they average a miserable 2.3 goals per contest. The Flames are 11-10 on home ice, limiting opponents to just 2.9 goals per game. Note that the Blues are just 1-4 in their last five games following a shutout win at home and 8-13 in 21 contests after a victory this season. The Flames check in 13-7 in their last 20 games following a home loss by two goals or more, as is the case here. They're also 22-19 in their last 41 contests after scoring one goal or less in their previous game. Take Calgary (10*).

Non-Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on New Jersey over Vegas at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

These two teams had much different results on Saturday as Vegas skated to a 3-2 win over Pittsburgh at home while New Jersey suffered a lopsided 6-2 defeat against a hungry Dallas squad in a tough back-to-back spot off a win in Columbus the night earlier. Here, I look for the Devils to bounce back. Note that Vegas is 0-4 in its last four games following three straight home wins, as is the case here. New Jersey is 4-2 in six games following a contest in which it allowed six or more goals this season. The Devils are also a long-term 129-114 when coming off a home loss by two goals or more. The favorite has gone 5-2 in the last seven meetings in this series. Take New Jersey (10*).

My selection is on New York over Anaheim at 8:30 pm et on Sunday.

The Rangers have inexplicably hit the skids lately, dropping six of their last eight games including the first two contests on their current four-game western road trip. I look for them to bounce back on Sunday as they head to Anaheim to face the reeling Ducks. Anaheim dropped a 5-3 decision in San Jose last night. The Ducks fought until the end in that game, ultimately giving up an empty-net goal in the final minute that sealed the result. The Rangers on the other hand looked like they barely broke a sweat in a 2-1 loss against the Kings in Los Angeles. Note that New York is 8-2 in its last 10 games following consecutive road losses and 22-11 in its last 33 contests after scoring two goals or less in each of its last two games, as is the case here. The Ducks are a miserable 13-48 when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent. Anaheim is also 5-21 in its last 26 games following a loss by two goals or more against a division opponent. Take New York (8*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Washington at 8 pm et on Saturday.

The Blues aren’t really going anywhere this season, mired in the middle of the pack as they continue in no man’s land between being competitive and a complete rebuild. I do like the spot for them on Saturday, however, as they get a quick revenge game following a 5-2 loss in Washington on Thursday. That marked St. Louis’ third straight loss. This is the spot for it to reverse course before heading to western Canada for a road trip. The Blues remain a winning team on home ice this season while the Capitals have admittedly played better lately but still average just 2.4 goals per game on the road. I don’t think that cuts it in this matchup on Saturday. Take St. Louis (8*).

Metropolitan Division Game of the Month. My selection is on New Jersey over Columbus at 7:05 pm et on Friday.

I like the bounce-back spot for the Devils on Friday as they look to respond following Wednesday's 3-2 home loss against the Canadiens. Columbus has been idle since Monday which isn't necessarily a good thing when you consider it is coming off a stunning win over the Canucks. The Blue Jackets probably would have liked to get right back on the ice after that victory but instead had to sit idle for three full days. Note that Columbus is still just 9-16 on home ice this season. Meanwhile, New Jersey has continued a trend that began last season, playing better hockey on the road than at home, going 13-8 in enemy territory. The Devils check in having gone 11-7 when coming off consecutive games in which they allowed three or more goals this season, as is the case here. Columbus is just 1-6 when coming off a home win in which it scored at least four goals. The favorite has gone 8-1 in the last nine meetings in this series. Take New Jersey (10*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Washington at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

While Washington may own the slightly better overall record, I'm not convinced it is the better team in this matchup. Noting that the underdog has gone 6-1-1 in the last eight meetings in this series, we'll confidently back the well-rested Blues as they head to Washington on Thursday. St. Louis hasn't played since Sunday, when it dropped its second straight game on home ice against the Flyers. On Monday, we saw the Capitals skate to a 2-0 victory at home against the Ducks. Note that Washington is just 6-9 in its last 15 games following a shutout win. It is also a long-term 26-34 in its last 60 contests after posting a win by two goals or more. Meanwhile, St. Louis checks in 23-19 in its last 42 games after giving up four goals or more in consecutive games, as is the case here. The Blues are also 5-1 this season when coming off a home loss by two goals or more. Take St. Louis (8*).

My selection is on Boston over Vegas at 10:05 pm et on Thursday.

Last night's 3-0 setback in Denver dropped Vegas to a miserable 12-17 over its last 29 games. Things won't get any easier on Thursday as it travels back home to face a Bruins squad that should be in a foul mood after dropping consecutive games to open their current western road swing. Boston had the benefit of being off yesterday and checks in 12-10 on the road this season, where it has allowed just 2.9 goals per game. Note that the B's are 27-12 in their last 39 games following a road loss. Better still, they're 7-2 in their last nine contests following consecutive road defeats and a red hot 10-1 in their last 11 games after giving up three goals or more in three straight games, as is the case here. Vegas is just 8-15 in its last 23 games when playing on no rest. The Knights are also just 11-14 in their last 25 contests after a road loss by two goals or more. Take Boston (8*).

My selection is on Pittsburgh over Vancouver at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Canucks have made the most of their current road trip, reeling off three straight wins following a loss in St. Louis to kick it off. I don't like the spot for Vancouver here, however, as it plays its sixth game in the last 10 nights, in six different cities no less. Note that the Canucks are just 5-8 in their last 13 games following consecutive road wins and 0-3 in their last three contests after scoring five goals or more in three consecutive games, as is the case here. The Penguins are in an excellent positive momentum spot here off Monday's 4-1 win in Philadelphia. They're 29-21 in their last 50 games following a road victory and 28-15 in their last 43 contests after allowing one goal or less in their previous game. Finally, we'll note that the home team has gone 5-1 in the last six meetings in this series. Take Pittsburgh (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on New York over Vancouver at 7:35 pm et on Tuesday.

You have to figure the Islanders were pleased seeing the Canucks pour it on early against the Rangers in Manhattan last night. It's never a bad thing to see your upcoming opponent punch themselves tired in the front half of a back-to-back set. The Isles are fresh off a couple of days off after a disappointing 1-3 road trip. Note that New York has gone 11-2 in its last 13 home contests when coming off a road trip lasting two or more games. The Isles are also 16-8 in their last 24 games after losing three of their last four contests. The Canucks have taken each of the last two meetings between these two teams, including a 4-3 victory on home ice back in mid-November. That's notable as Vancouver hasn't won three straight matchups with New York since back in 2015-16. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Colorado over Boston at 9:05 pm et on Monday.

These two teams had very different results in their respective games on Saturday. Colorado dropped an ugly 8-4 decision in afternoon action at home against Florida while Boston skated past Tampa Bay by a 7-3 score. The Avalanche are still an impressive 16-5 on home ice this season and check in 25-12 in their last 37 games after allowing five goals or more in their previous contest. Colorado has also gone 6-2 in its last eight games after a home loss by three goals or more. This is undoubtedly a game the Avs had circled on their calendar at the outset of the season after the Bruins defeated them 5-1 and 4-0 in a pair of matchups last season. Note that the home team has gone 7-2 in the last nine meetings in this series. While the Avs have the benefit of staying home following Saturday's contest, the Bruins will have travelled across the country. Boston also has to catch a plane to Arizona after tonight's contest as it plays against the Coyotes tomorrow night. Meanwhile, the Avs can empty the tank tonight as they'll have a day off tomorrow before hosting Vegas on Wednesday to wrap up their three-game homestand. Take Colorado (8*).

My selection is on Boston over Tampa Bay at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Bruins haven't been the same nearly unbeatable force at home this season that they were in 22-23 but they're still 11-6 at TD Garden and I expect them to bounce back from Thursday's 6-5 loss right here against the Penguins. Boston didn't execute much well in that defeat at the hands of Pittsburgh. Perhaps a letdown was to be expected as it was returning home off a perfect 2-0 road trip and four straight victories overall. Nevertheless, this is a game the Bruins will undoubtedly get up for after they dropped a 5-4 decision in Tampa on November 20th. The Bruins are an incredible 23-5 in their last 28 home games when seeking revenge for a road loss against an opponent. Note that despite Thursday's poor defensive showing, the B's are still giving up just 2.5 goals per game on home ice this season. That's in stark contrast to the Lightning's road ledger as they've given up a whopping 3.9 goals per contest in enemy territory. Tampa Bay is coming off a 4-1 victory in Minnesota on Thursday but hasn't won consecutive games since recording three wins in a row from December 19th to 23rd. The Bolts are just 6-12 when coming off a win this season. Take Boston (8*).

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Buffalo over Montreal at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Sabres have had plenty of time to stew over Sunday's 5-1 defeat at the hands of the Senators in Ottawa. This would have already been a game Buffalo had circled on its calendar after dropping both previous meetings, at home no less, in this series this season. The Canadiens just played in Dallas two nights ago, wrapping up a long seven-game road stretch that started on December 18th (they did return home for a brief holiday break). While the Sabres are by no means road warriors, they haven managed to go 10-7 in their last 17 road games against Atlantic Division opponents. They're also an impressive 23-11 in their last 34 games when seeking revenge for a home loss against an opponent. Meanwhile, the Canadiens are a miserable 20-46 in their last 66 games following a win, as is the case here after Tuesday's upset victory in Dallas. Note that the road team has won five straight and six of the last seven meetings in this series. Take Buffalo (10*).

My selection is on New Jersey over Washington at 7:35 pm et on Wednesday.

The spot doesn't get much better for the Devils as they look to bounce back from a 5-2 drubbing at the hands of the Bruins in Boston this past Saturday. That loss snapped a three-game winning streak as New Jersey has certainly turned things around following a slow start to the campaign. The Devils check in 11-6 over their last 17 contests. Washington entered last night's game in Pittsburgh riding a four-game losing streak having scored a grand total of just five goals over that stretch. This is undoubtedly a game the Devils have had circled after dropping the first two meetings in this series this season (both on home ice). Note that the road team has gone 9-2 in the last 11 matchups between these two teams. Take New Jersey (8*).

My selection is on Colorado over New York at 9:05 pm et on Tuesday.

You have to figure Islanders head coach Lane Lambert's days behind the bench are once again numbered as New York has dropped five of its last eight games following a brief surge. Things won't get any easier as the Isles continue their road trip with a top in Denver on Tuesday. The Avalanche are 7-3 over their last 10 games and check in 15-4 on home ice this season. Speaking of home ice, the home team has dominated this particular series, going 14-3 in the last 17 meetings. The Avs did manage to skate to a 7-4 win on Long Island earlier this season but that's been the exception rather than the rule. Here, we'll note that New York is a miserable 1-10 in its last 11 road contests after scoring one goal or less in its previous game. Meanwhile, the Avs are 26-12 in their last 38 games after allowing two goals or less in consecutive games, as is the case here. Take Colorado (8*).