Ottawa Senators vs Pittsburgh Penguins
For a team that doesn’t score many goals, the Senators put quite a few on the net. In first game of the series, the Sens out shot the Penguins, 36-30 despite losing 4-1. That continued a pattern they established throughout the playoffs with over 31 shots on goal per game.
Although the Penguins look like the dominant team in this series, and perhaps the entire NHL, they are often their own worst enemy. Their lackadaisical play comes on the defensive end after a convincing win. Their offense, rarely takes even a shift off.
I have the Senators to win the series, so I need a win here by the road team. I’m not real confident in that, but I do think the Senators will get a few goals.
I’m betting the Senators/Penguins over 5.5 +115
Detroit Red Wings vs Chicago Blackhawks
I have the Blackhawks to win the series. They need to win here to maintain their home ice advantage. I saw nothing in the first game to make my confidence waiver.
I’ll take the Blackhawks -215 on the money and lay -1.5 goals +145 each for one unit.