Boston Bruins vs. Toronto Maple Leafs
The Leafs got physical in the last game which tied the series at 1-1. They had always been the better skating team, on the blue line anyway.
The Toronto crowd will be rabid and vocal. That will help, but keeping the puck away from Leafs goalie James Reimer will be important. Five on five, the Bruins have a big edge. However special teams have gone tot he Leafs.
The public is all over the Bruins. I see value on taking the Leafs at plus money. I’ll take the Leafs +110.
Washington Capitals vs. New York Rangers
Caps goalie Braden Holtby has been unbelievably sharp. He’s had to be going against Henrik Lunqvist.
The Caps have been one of the leagues top teams after a horrendous start. They have shown no signs of let up here. Their defense has clamped down on the Rangers forwards. The Rangers didn’t even attempt a shot in over 17 minutes on Saturday. The Rangers come home down 0-2.
This total is 5 under -140, which tells you the bookmakers feel this will be a tight game all the way. The public is on the Rangers money line and puck line. I see value the other way. I’ll take the Caps +1.5 -260.
Anaheim Ducks vs. Detroit Red Wings
The Red Wings were dismal the other day, losing 4-0. Left Winger Justin Abdelkader will sit out a couple because of his hit to Anaheim’s Toni Lydman.
Wings find themselves down 2-1 in the series. The Wings are perceived as the veteran, playoff tested team, but it’s just an illusion. The exact opposite is true. The Ducks have outplayed the Wings in every facet of the game. They are simply the better team.
I know the Wings need the game more, but I’m not buying it. In fact, I’m buying the other way. I’ll take the Ducks +110
St. Louis Blues vs. Los Angeles Kings
The Kings won a big must game to get back into the series. But in reality, the Blues have outplayed the defending champs in almost every facet of the game. They are getting to Kings goalie Quick much easier than the Kings are getting to Elliott. Once again, the Kings are perceived to be the better team because of their recent success. I think the Blues carry the day.
All three games have been one-goal affairs. The posted total is right around 4.5, which tells you a lot. I’m will take the Blues +1.5 -255.