My selection is on Dallas over Vancouver at 8:05 pm et on Friday.

We'll back the Stars as they aim to put an end to Vancouver’s three-game winning streak. Dallas has been rolling as well, entering this matchup on a three-game winning streak of its own. The Stars have been particularly strong on home ice, posting an impressive 18-6-1 record while outscoring opponents by an average of 1.1 goals per contest. That home-ice advantage could play a key role as they take on a Canucks squad that, despite its strong road record, has averaged just 2.9 goals per game away from home.

Vancouver may also be in a tricky scheduling spot, looking to complete a perfect three-game road trip after victories in St. Louis and Nashville. Facing a well-balanced Dallas team in this scenario presents a tough challenge. Expect the Stars to take care of business on home ice.

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

My selection is on Calgary over Anaheim at 9 pm et on Thursday.

The Ducks enter this matchup on a three-game winning streak, but it’s worth noting that they remain a sub-.500 team at 21-23-6. Anaheim has struggled to maintain consistency this season, particularly on the road, where it has gone just 1--11-4. The Ducks have also been outscored by a margin of 0.8 goals per game away from home, a concerning trend as they face a Flames squad eager to snap a two-game losing streak.

Calgary comes off a 3-1 loss against Washington, one of the league’s best teams, but has otherwise played well in recent weeks. Prior to this short skid, the Flames had won three games in a row, including quality wins over the Jets and Wild. They’ve been far more effective on home ice, where they own a 15-7-3 record. Given the Flames’ ability to control play at the Saddledome and the Ducks' ongoing struggles to stay consistent, I expect Calgary to bounce back in a convincing fashion.

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

Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Pittsburgh and Utah at 9:30 pm ET on Wednesday.

Both teams enter this matchup struggling offensively, with Pittsburgh managing just one goal in each of its last three games and Utah netting only three goals over its last two contests. However, I expect a shift in scoring trends here.

Pittsburgh has been vulnerable defensively on the road, allowing 3.6 goals per game, which sets up well for a Utah offense looking to break out. Meanwhile, Utah has been less effective defensively at home, giving up 3.3 goals per game in Salt Lake City. This suggests that Pittsburgh, despite its recent scoring struggles, should have opportunities to get back on track.

With both teams needing a spark offensively and each allowing more goals in their respective weaker defensive situations, I anticipate a higher-scoring affair than we've seen from them recently.

Take the over. Projected score: Pittsburgh 4, Utah 3.

My selection is on Nashville over Vancouver at 9 pm ET on Wednesday.

The Canucks may be coming off consecutive upset victories, but concerns remain about their consistency and locker-room chemistry. Despite a solid road record (13-7-4), they've only outscored opponents by a slim 0.1-goal margin per game away from home.

Meanwhile, Nashville is coming off a disappointing 5-2 loss in Anaheim but has had three full days to regroup. That defeat snapped a five-game winning streak, and the Predators should be well-prepared to bounce back. They've been solid at home, posting a 12-8-3 record while outscoring visitors by an average of 0.3 goals per contest.

With rest, home ice, and motivation on their side, I expect the Predators to take care of business on Wednesday.

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

Atlantic Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Boston and Buffalo at 7:05 pm ET on Tuesday.

The Bruins enter this matchup off consecutive low-scoring games, but the setting shifts to Buffalo, where the Sabres' home games have consistently been high-scoring affairs, averaging 6.9 total goals. Boston's typically strong defense has shown vulnerability on the road, allowing 3.9 goals per game, creating a ripe opportunity for Buffalo's offense to produce.

Meanwhile, the Sabres have been shaky defensively on home ice, conceding 3.6 goals per contest. That sets the stage for Boston's underachieving offense to find its rhythm. The combination of Buffalo's high-event style and Boston's road defensive struggles makes this a prime spot for a back-and-forth, high-scoring game.

Take the over. Projected score: Boston 4, Buffalo 3.

My selection is on St. Louis over Vancouver at 7:30 pm ET on Monday.

The Canucks managed to snap a two-game slide with a 2-1 win over the Capitals on Saturday, but they're still in disarray, having dropped 13 of their last 18 games overall. Vancouver has struggled to build momentum all season, failing to notch consecutive wins since late November and early December.

Meanwhile, St. Louis enters this contest off consecutive home losses to strong competition in the Golden Knights and Stars. This is a critical bounce-back spot for the Blues as they look to gain ground in the tightly contested Western Conference standings before embarking on a tough two-game road trip to Colorado and Utah later this week.

The Blues already proved capable of handling the Canucks with a 4-3 victory in Vancouver back in December. Given Vancouver's ongoing struggles and inability to string together wins, look for St. Louis to capitalize on this opportunity to secure an important victory.

Take St. Louis. Projected score: St. Louis 3, Vancouver 2.

My selection is on Vegas over Florida at 8 pm ET on Sunday.

Florida is coming off a dominant 7-2 victory in San Jose on Saturday, a much-needed rebound after losing in Los Angeles on Wednesday. However, the quick turnaround in this back-to-back spot could leave the Panthers vulnerable against a rested and determined Golden Knights squad.

Vegas, despite losing seven of its last nine games, is positioned for a bounce-back effort as it begins a critical three-game homestand. The Knights last played on Friday, dropping a close 4-3 decision in Dallas, giving them an extra day to prepare for this matchup. Vegas has been excellent at home this season, posting an 18-6-1 record while outscoring opponents by an average of 1.1 goals per game.

With rest and home ice working in their favor, I expect the Golden Knights to take advantage of a tired Florida team and secure a much-needed victory.

Take Vegas. Projected score: Vegas 4, Florida 3.

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Winnipeg -1.5 goals over Calgary at 6 pm ET on Sunday.

This is a great revenge spot for the Jets, who dropped a 3-1 decision against the Flames on home ice last Saturday. Since that loss, Winnipeg has bounced back with consecutive wins, including a convincing 5-2 victory over Utah on Friday. With two days of rest, the Jets should be fresh and ready to extend their momentum.

Calgary enters this contest riding a three-game winning streak, but they’re coming off a taxing 5-4 win in Minnesota last night, where they narrowly held off a late Wild comeback. The Flames have been inconsistent on the road this season, posting a 9-10-4 record while averaging just 2.4 goals per game.

Winnipeg has been dominant on home ice, compiling a 19-5-3 record while outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.6 goals per game. Look for the Jets to capitalize on a tired Calgary team and secure a decisive victory.

Take Winnipeg -1.5 goals. Projected score: Winnipeg 4, Calgary 1.

My selection is on Minnesota over Calgary on Saturday at 7 pm ET.

The Wild are coming off a tough 4-0 home loss to Utah on Thursday, but I expect them to bounce back with a strong effort in this spot. They’ll be hosting a Flames team that has strung together two consecutive victories, but Calgary remains underwhelming on the road with an 8-10-4 record this season. Minnesota has been solid overall but needs a win here to regain momentum before embarking on a five-game road trip starting tomorrow in Chicago.

This game is a key opportunity for the Wild to get back on track and reassert themselves before they hit the road. With home-ice advantage and the need for a win, I believe Minnesota will come out with determination.

Take Minnesota. Projected score: Minnesota 3, Calgary 2.

My selection is on Colorado over Boston on Saturday at 1 pm ET.

The Avalanche are coming off two straight home losses but have had a few days to reset, with Wednesday marking their last action. In addition, they made a significant move with the trade of Mikko Rantanen to Carolina, bringing back Martin Necas and Jack Drury. This change could bring new energy to the squad as they seek to improve on their solid 14-9 road record, where they've outscored opponents by 0.5 goals per game this season.

Boston, on the other hand, has alternated wins and losses over their last four, and their recent 2-0 shutout win against Ottawa on Thursday could lead to a letdown in this tough three-in-four scenario. With the early start time and a back-to-back against the Rangers looming, I expect the Avs to respond with a strong effort, hungry to bounce back and position themselves well heading into tomorrow’s matchup.

Take Colorado. Projected score: Colorado 4, Boston 2.

My selection is on Dallas over Vegas at 7:35 pm ET on Friday.

The Golden Knights snapped their four-game losing streak with a 4-2 win in St. Louis last night, but the quick turnaround combined with their recent struggles could make it tough to maintain momentum against a strong Dallas squad. The Stars, who have been idle since Tuesday’s tight 2-1 loss to Carolina, should be well-prepared to take advantage of a potentially fatigued Vegas team.

Dallas has been dominant at home this season, sporting a 17-6-1 record while allowing just 2.0 goals per game on average. With a deep defensive core and steady goaltending, the Stars have the tools to neutralize Vegas’ offensive threats.

Meanwhile, the Golden Knights may already have an eye on their upcoming home matchup against the defending champion Florida Panthers on Sunday. With travel and fatigue in play, they could struggle to match Dallas’ energy.

Expect the Stars to lean on their strong home ice advantage and take care of business here.

Take Dallas. Projected score: Dallas 3, Vegas 2.

Pacific Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the over between Vancouver and Edmonton at 9 pm et on Thursday.

Both teams come into this game following back-to-back 'under' results, including Saturday’s 3-2 Canucks victory in Vancouver. However, I expect a higher-scoring affair in this rematch. Despite missing Connor McDavid due to suspension, the Oilers are capable of rebounding offensively after scoring just two goals in each of their last two games. Edmonton has allowed at least three goals in four straight and six of its last seven contests, pointing to continued defensive vulnerabilities.

Meanwhile, the Canucks had shown defensive lapses before their last two games, giving up 11 goals over a two-game span. While they’ve tightened up recently, it’s tough to envision a repeat of Saturday's low-scoring battle, especially considering Edmonton’s need to push the pace offensively to turn things around.

Take the over. Projected score: Vancouver 4, Edmonton 3.

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

The Kings will be eager to respond following a disappointing 5-1 home loss to the Penguins on Monday. Despite that setback, Los Angeles has been outstanding on home ice this season, boasting a 14-3-1 record. Additionally, the Kings are well-positioned to bounce back as they rarely drop three straight games (they've done so just once this season, losing three in a row - all on the road - back in October), particularly when playing at home.

Florida enters this contest riding a modest two-game winning streak, both of which came against the lowly Ducks, including a 5-2 victory last night. Even with those wins, the Panthers are just 6-7 over their last 13 games, highlighting their inconsistent play of late. The back-to-back scheduling spot adds another layer of difficulty for Florida as it faces a rested and motivated Kings squad.

Look for Los Angeles to rebound with a strong performance on Wednesday.

Take Los Angeles. Projected score: Los Angeles 4, Florida 3.

Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Columbus +1.5 goals over Toronto at 7:30 pm ET on Wednesday.

Columbus will look to regroup after managing just one goal across back-to-back losses in New York. The Blue Jackets had Tuesday off to reset and should deliver a more competitive performance as they attempt to salvage their current four-game road trip. Despite their struggles, Columbus has been resilient, often keeping games close even when falling short on the scoreboard.

Toronto comes in riding a three-game winning streak, with two of those victories coming by two goals or more. However, this could be a potential letdown spot for the Leafs, as they might have one eye on Saturday's divisional matchup against a surging Ottawa team. While Toronto has been impressive, maintaining the focus to dominate a desperate Columbus team could be a challenge.

Columbus will be motivated to avoid heading into Thursday's back-to-back against Carolina on a three-game skid. Taking the insurance goal provides value, but the Blue Jackets are capable of keeping this one close—or even stealing a win outright.

Take Columbus +1.5 goals. Projected score: Toronto 3, Columbus 2.

My selection is on Tampa Bay over Montreal at 7:05 pm ET on Tuesday.

The Lightning saw their modest two-game winning streak snapped in Toronto last night against a red-hot Maple Leafs team. Despite the back-to-back scenario, Tampa Bay is well-positioned for a bounce-back performance in this revenge matchup against Montreal (the Canadiens won 5-2 in Tampa on December 29th).

The Canadiens have been climbing the Eastern Conference standings, fueled by solid recent form, including an overtime victory against the Rangers on Sunday. However, their underlying numbers at home reveal vulnerability. While Montreal sports a 12-8-3 record at the Bell Centre, they’ve been outscored by an average of 0.3 goals per game in those contests. Conversely, Tampa Bay has been slightly better on the road than their 10-11-2 record suggests, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.2 goals per game away from home.

This is a favorable spot for the Lightning to get back on track and snap the Canadiens' momentum.

Take Tampa Bay. Projected score: Tampa Bay 4, Montreal 3.

My selection is on Columbus over New York at 7:30 pm ET on Monday.

We'll back the Blue Jackets as an underdog on Long Island, where they look to rebound from a 1-0 shutout loss against the Rangers on Saturday. That defeat snapped Columbus' impressive six-game winning streak, during which they recorded four victories as underdogs. While the Jackets' road record this season sits at just 6-12-4, they’ve shown recent improvement with wins in two of their last three away games.

New York is coming off a 4-1 win over San Jose on Saturday, but their 8-11-2 record on home ice this season leaves much to be desired. This game could prove tricky for the Islanders, as they’ll have three days off following this contest before a revenge spot against Philadelphia, which recently defeated them 5-3 on this very ice. Meanwhile, Columbus faces a challenging road trip with upcoming stops in Toronto and Carolina, making this a pivotal opportunity to secure points.

Take Columbus. Projected score: Columbus 3, New York 2.

My selection is on Ottawa over Boston at 3:05 pm ET on Saturday.

The Bruins come into this matchup riding the momentum of consecutive victories and have benefitted from three days of rest. However, this contest shapes up as a tough road test, and I believe the Senators are well-positioned to pull off the upset.

Ottawa saw its three-game winning streak snapped in a 1-0 overtime loss to Washington on Thursday, but that performance was more about goaltending and puck luck than any major issues with the Senators' play. They remain a solid 11-7-2 on home ice this season and should come out hungry to rebound.

Boston, meanwhile, has struggled away from home, posting a lackluster 9-12-2 record. While the Bruins have shown flashes of their potential, their road inconsistencies could be exposed against a Senators squad that has proven it can compete with quality opposition on home ice.

Look for Ottawa to lean on its defensive structure and capitalize on Boston's road woes to come away with a crucial victory.

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

Eastern Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Washington and Ottawa at 7 pm ET on Thursday.

While recent trends point heavily to the 'under' for both of these teams, I anticipate a higher-scoring affair in this matchup. The Capitals have seen each of their last four games stay 'under' the total, but they remain one of the league's better offensive teams on the road, averaging 3.7 goals per contest. Meanwhile, Ottawa is riding a six-game 'under' streak, with the 'under' cashing in eight of its last 10 games overall ('under' has gone 8-0-2 over that stretch). However, the Sens have shown scoring potential on home ice, averaging 3.3 goals per game.

Both squads have recently faced defensively-inclined opponents, but this matchup sets up differently. With the Capitals likely to push the pace and Ottawa capable of responding on home ice, I expect both teams to contribute to a relatively high-scoring contest.

Take the 'over.' Projected score: Washington 4, Ottawa 3.

Western Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Vancouver and Winnipeg at 8:05 pm ET on Tuesday.

While both teams are coming off consecutive 'under' results, this matchup sets up well for a higher-scoring affair. Vancouver snapped its four-game losing streak with a solid 3-0 win in Toronto on Saturday, but it has been productive offensively on the road this season, averaging 3.0 goals per game.

Winnipeg, meanwhile, has been an offensive force on home ice, averaging 3.7 goals per game. The Jets also come into this one riding high off a 3-0 shutout victory against Colorado on Saturday. Both teams have proven capable of finding the back of the net, especially in more favorable matchups like this one.

The total for this game has been set conservatively, likely influenced by the recent string of low-scoring outcomes for both teams. However, with both offenses trending in the right direction and the potential for a more open game, the 'over' is well-positioned to cash.

Take the over. Projected score: Winnipeg 4, Vancouver 3.

My selection is on Ottawa over Pittsburgh at 4:05 p.m. ET on Saturday.

The Senators find themselves in a prime bounce-back position after Thursday's disappointing blowout loss to Buffalo. While Ottawa has dropped four straight games, it has consistently shown an ability to rebound from tough stretches this season, particularly when facing comparable or slightly superior competition. This contest provides an opportunity to right the ship against a Penguins team that has struggled with consistency.

Pittsburgh snapped its own four-game losing streak with a 5-3 win over Edmonton on Thursday. However, the Penguins have been far from dominant, especially when asked to follow up on a win. Their defensive vulnerabilities remain evident, as they've allowed at least three goals in six straight games.

Ottawa's offense has the firepower to exploit those defensive issues, and the Senators are due for a stronger showing after a lackluster stretch. Additionally, Pittsburgh may find itself in a letdown spot following its high-energy win over the Oilers.

Expect Ottawa to come out with urgency and deliver a much-needed victory.

Take Ottawa. Projected score: Ottawa 4, Pittsburgh 3.

Atlantic Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Ottawa over Buffalo at 7 p.m. ET on Thursday.

The Sabres snapped their three-game skid with a shootout victory over Washington on Monday, but their struggles on the road this season (7-12-2) remain a significant concern. Buffalo’s defensive inconsistencies have often been amplified away from home, leaving them vulnerable against teams capable of capitalizing on their mistakes.

Ottawa, meanwhile, returns home after a frustrating overtime loss in Detroit two nights ago, where they squandered a lead. The Senators have now dropped three straight games and five of their last six, but this matchup presents a strong opportunity to bounce back. Ottawa has been more reliable on home ice, where it boasts a solid 10-6-1 record at the Canadian Tire Centre this season.

With added motivation to shake off their recent slump and facing a Sabres team that has struggled in similar spots, I like the Sens to respond with a strong performance here.

Take Ottawa. Projected score: Ottawa 4, Buffalo 2.

Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Calgary over Anaheim at 10 p.m. ET on Tuesday.

Calgary enters this game looking to regain its footing after back-to-back losses on home ice. While the Flames have been inconsistent of late, this matchup offers an excellent opportunity to rebound as they take on an Anaheim team that, despite some recent improvement, remains vulnerable. Calgary’s urgency to secure two points here is heightened by the fact that they’ll face a tougher challenge in a back-to-back against Los Angeles on Wednesday.

Anaheim is coming off a confidence-boosting 4-2 upset win over Tampa Bay on Sunday, but its overall form at home this season remains mediocre with a 9-11-1 record. While the Ducks have shown flashes of competitiveness, their inconsistency and tendency to look ahead—especially with a lengthy road trip starting on Thursday—could work against them here. Calgary’s depth and motivation make them a tough opponent for Anaheim to overcome in this spot.

Look for Calgary to capitalize on its desperation and take advantage of Anaheim's distractions to secure a much-needed victory.

Take Calgary. Projected score: Calgary 4, Anaheim 3.

My selection is on Ottawa over Detroit at 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday.

Ottawa has had plenty of time to regroup following a disappointing 4-0 shutout loss in St. Louis on Friday. That game capped a tough stretch for the Senators, who have dropped four of their last five contests. However, this matchup against Detroit provides an ideal opportunity for Ottawa to bounce back, as it benefits from three full days of rest and preparation to reset its approach.

Detroit enters this game riding a wave of momentum after four consecutive wins, including a statement road victory over Winnipeg on Saturday. While the Red Wings' recent form is impressive, their overall home record of 9-10-2 leaves much to be desired. Despite their current streak, inconsistency at Little Caesars Arena has been a recurring issue for Detroit this season, making them vulnerable against an Ottawa team eager to turn things around.

Expect the Senators to take advantage of Detroit's shaky home form and their own fresh legs to put forth a strong effort on Tuesday night. Ottawa’s motivation to rebound, coupled with Detroit’s potential for a letdown, makes the Senators a solid choice.

Take Ottawa. Projected score: Ottawa 4, Detroit 2.

My selection is on the 'over' between Tampa Bay and Anaheim at 8 pm ET on Sunday.

This game sets up well for a high-scoring affair as Tampa Bay looks to get back on track offensively. The Lightning have struggled to find the back of the net in their last three outings, scoring just four goals combined, but their road scoring average of 3.8 goals per game suggests a rebound is likely. At the same time, Tampa Bay's defense has been less than airtight, allowing 3.1 goals per game away from home.

Anaheim enters this matchup in solid form offensively, having netted 14 goals over its last four games. While the 'under' cashed in their most recent contest against Edmonton, it's worth noting the Ducks haven't delivered back-to-back 'under' results since late December.

With both teams capable of capitalizing offensively and question marks defensively, the conditions are right for the scoring to exceed expectations.

Take the 'over.' Projected score: Tampa Bay 5, Anaheim 3.

My selection is on Calgary over Nashville at 10:05 pm ET on Saturday.

Nashville is coming off an impressive 3-0 shutout victory over Vancouver last night, but the challenge of playing back-to-back games on the road could prove difficult, especially against a rested Calgary team. The Predators have struggled mightily away from home this season, compiling a dismal 3-13-4 record on the road. Even with the momentum from last night’s win, maintaining that level of play in a tough environment like Calgary will be a significant test.

The Flames, meanwhile, are motivated to close out their three-game homestand on a positive note. They are coming off a 5-3 loss to Utah on Thursday and will be looking to rebound and secure a winning record for the homestand. Calgary has been solid on home ice this season, posting a 13-5-3 record. Their balanced lineup and strong performance at home give them an edge in this matchup.

Expect Calgary to capitalize on Nashville's fatigue and continue the Predators' road woes.

Take Calgary. Projected score: Flames 4, Predators 2.

My selection is on Washington over New York at 12 noon ET on Saturday.

The Capitals are well-positioned to bounce back from a narrow 4-3 shootout loss to the Wild on Thursday. Despite that setback, Washington has been strong on home ice this season, posting a 12-4-3 record. The Caps’ balanced attack and home-ice consistency make them a tough out in this spot.

The Rangers, meanwhile, are coming off a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Boston on Thursday. While impressive, the shift to the road could prove challenging for New York, as they’ve struggled away from home with a subpar 9-10 record this season.

Expect Washington to take advantage of New York’s road woes and deliver a convincing performance. 

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

My selection is on the 'under' between Nashville and Vancouver at 10:05 pm ET on Friday.

Both teams are coming off high-scoring results, but the setup here suggests a more defensive and lower-scoring affair. Nashville’s 5-3 loss in Minnesota and Vancouver’s 4-3 win in Seattle don’t tell the full story of their offensive capabilities. The Predators have struggled mightily on the road, averaging just 1.9 goals per game over 20 away contests this season. That lack of offensive punch is unlikely to improve significantly in this matchup, especially given the fatigue factor with another game looming tomorrow night in Calgary.

Vancouver finds itself in the midst of a tough three-games-in-four-nights stretch. The Canucks are likely to focus on a more structured and cautious approach defensively as they aim to conserve energy before heading out on a lengthy road trip that begins Monday in Montreal. Their ability to lock down defensively (not consistently, mind you) could further stifle a Predators squad that already struggles to generate consistent offense away from home ice.

Expect a slower-paced, grind-it-out style of game on Friday with both teams mindful of their upcoming schedules. The circumstances point strongly toward a low-scoring contest where goals will be at a premium.

Take the 'under.' Projected score: Canucks 2, Predators 1.

My selection is on Ottawa over St. Louis at 8:05 pm ET on Friday.

The Senators may be in a back-to-back spot, but they expended minimal energy in last night’s 4-2 loss in Dallas, mustering only 13 shots on goal. That disappointing performance marked their third defeat in four games during their current road trip. However, this sets up as a bounce-back opportunity for Ottawa, which will look to shake off its recent struggles against a vulnerable St. Louis squad. With the road trip winding down on Tuesday in Detroit, the Senators have motivation to deliver a strong effort and grab a much-needed victory.

St. Louis enters this game on the heels of a decisive Winter Classic win over Chicago on Tuesday. While the Blues might appear to carry momentum, they’ve struggled on home ice this season with a 7-9-1 record and have been outscored by an average of 0.8 goals per game in their own building. Adding to their challenges, this is a tricky scheduling spot for St. Louis, as they prepare to head out for a two-game road trip beginning in Columbus tomorrow night. The potential distraction of travel could affect their focus against a determined Ottawa side.

In this spot, Ottawa has a good chance to capitalize on St. Louis' home struggles and inconsistent play. Expect the Senators to bring a strong effort and find a way to come out on top.

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

My selection is on Utah over Calgary at 9:05 pm ET on Thursday.

We'll back Utah as it aims to end its five-game skid and secure a much-needed victory on its current four-game road trip. Despite recent struggles, Utah has been solid on the road this season, posting an 11-7-2 record. The team will be eager to rebound after a disappointing 4-1 loss in Edmonton on New Year's Eve, and this sets up as a prime bounce-back spot.

Calgary, meanwhile, enters this contest fresh off a 3-1 win over Vancouver on Tuesday, a victory that allowed them to avoid a two-game losing streak following a 3-0 defeat in Las Vegas on Sunday. However, Calgary has been inconsistent, and this matchup figures to be a tougher test against a Utah team that will play with urgency and focus.

I expect Utah to bring a strong effort and ultimately outlast Calgary in this one.

Take Utah. Projected score: Utah 3, Calgary 2.

Metropolitan Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Columbus +1.5 goals over Carolina at 8:05 pm ET on Tuesday.

The Blue Jackets continue to fly under the radar on home ice, boasting an impressive 11-4-3 record this season. While they’re coming off a tough 4-0 loss in Boston on Sunday, Columbus has demonstrated resilience, winning three of its last five games, with Sunday’s defeat being the only one by more than a single goal during that span.

Carolina arrives in Columbus following a 5-2 victory over New Jersey at home on Sunday. However, the Hurricanes have struggled to find consistency on the road, posting an underwhelming 8-9-1 record where they’ve been outscored by an average margin of 0.3 goals per game. Their recent form also raises questions, as they’ve gone just 2-3 over their last five contests.

With Columbus performing well at home and Carolina showing vulnerabilities on the road, the insurance of +1.5 goals provides excellent value in what figures to be a competitive matchup.

Take Columbus +1.5 goals. Projected score: Columbus 3, Carolina 2.

My selection is on Washington over Boston at 12:30 pm ET on Tuesday.

The Capitals are in a strong bounce-back spot as they return home following a 4-2 setback in Detroit on Sunday. Washington has been reliable on home ice this season, posting an 11-4-2 record while outscoring opponents by an average margin of one goal per game. They’ll be motivated to avenge a 5-1 loss to the Bruins in Boston back on December 23rd.

Boston, meanwhile, has struggled with consistency on the road, sitting at just 8-8-2 in away games this season. The Bruins are coming off an impressive 4-0 home shutout victory over Columbus on Saturday, but that momentum might not carry over to a tough road matchup against a motivated Capitals squad.

Washington's ability to control the pace at home, combined with Boston’s middling road performance, makes the Caps the right side in this early afternoon tilt.

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

My selection is on Vegas -1.5 goals over Calgary at 8 pm ET on Sunday.

The Flames notched their second consecutive win on Saturday night, defeating the Sharks 3-1 in San Jose. However, Calgary has struggled on the road this season, posting a 5-7-4 record while allowing 3.6 goals per game and being outscored by an average margin of 1.2 goals per contest. Playing on the second leg of a back-to-back only adds to the challenge for the Flames.

Meanwhile, Vegas comes in rested and red-hot, having secured its fifth straight win with a 6-3 victory over San Jose on Friday. The Golden Knights have been dominant on home ice this season, compiling a 14-3 record while averaging 3.9 goals per game and outscoring their opponents by an average margin of 1.3 goals.

With Vegas firing on all cylinders and Calgary facing fatigue and road woes, I like the Golden Knights to win convincingly.

Take Vegas -1.5 goals. Projected score: Vegas 5, Calgary 2.

My selection is on Seattle over Vancouver at 4:05 pm ET on Saturday.

The Kraken come into this matchup looking to snap a five-game losing streak, during which they've managed to score just six goals. While Seattle's offense has struggled, the team has had five days off to regroup and prepare for this divisional clash. That rest and preparation should benefit them as they seek to get back on track against a vulnerable opponent.

Vancouver has been inconsistent on home ice, posting a mediocre 7-7-5 record while allowing an average of 3.6 goals per game. The Canucks did manage a narrow 4-3 win over the Sharks on Monday, but that victory did little to mask the team’s broader struggles, as it had lost three in a row prior to that and has won just three of its last nine games overall.

This sets up as a good opportunity for Seattle to break out of its slump against a Vancouver team that has been shaky defensively and uneven in its performances. Look for the Kraken to rediscover their form and pick up a much-needed win on Saturday.

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

My selection is on Columbus over Montreal at 7 pm ET on Monday.

Montreal comes into this matchup riding a three-game winning streak but has struggled mightily on the road this season, posting a dismal 4-9-1 record. The Canadiens face a tough challenge here as they visit a Columbus team that has been strong on home ice, boasting a 9-4-3 record in front of their fans.

The Blue Jackets will be eager to bounce back after a road loss in Philadelphia on Saturday. They’ve been solid at home recently, as evidenced by a 4-2 victory over a strong New Jersey squad last Thursday. Adding to their motivation, Columbus will be looking to avenge a 4-3 home loss to Montreal from November 27th.

Expect the Blue Jackets to use their home-ice advantage and defensive discipline to cool off the Canadiens and come away with a victory.

Take Columbus. Projected score: Columbus 3, Montreal 2.

My selection is on Toronto over Winnipeg at 2 pm ET on Monday.

Toronto will look to bounce back after a disappointing 6-3 home loss to the Islanders on Saturday, a result that snapped their three-game winning streak. The Leafs should be motivated to rebound in this afternoon matchup, where they’ve generally performed well in similar spots this season.

Winnipeg is riding high after a dominant 5-0 shutout victory over Minnesota on Saturday, but this game presents a challenging one-off road trip just before the Christmas break. The Jets will need to avoid looking ahead to upcoming home games against Ottawa and Nashville later in the week, a scenario that could leave them vulnerable.

Expect Toronto to tighten up defensively and take advantage of Winnipeg’s tough scheduling spot to secure the win.

Take Toronto. Projected score: Toronto 3, Winnipeg 2.

My selection is on Edmonton -1.5 goals over Ottawa at 8:05 pm ET on Saturday.

Ottawa enters this matchup riding a six-game winning streak, including a hard-fought overtime victory in Vancouver last night. While the Senators have played exceptionally well during this run, they’re now in a tough back-to-back situation and face a more rested Edmonton team that secured a decisive matinee win against San Jose yesterday.

Edmonton has been solid at home, boasting a 10-7-1 record on home ice. The Oilers also have the confidence of a 5-2 victory over the Senators in their first meeting this season. While both teams are dealing with back-to-back games, Ottawa’s recent grind and travel might make this a challenging spot for them, especially considering Edmonton didn’t have to exert as much energy in its win over the Sharks.

Look for the Oilers to capitalize on their slight scheduling edge and send the Senators back down to earth in this one.

Take Edmonton -1.5 goals. Projected score: Edmonton 4, Ottawa 2.

My selection is on Vancouver over Ottawa at 10 pm ET on Saturday.

The Senators enter this matchup riding a five-game winning streak, including victories in the first two games of their current road trip. While Ottawa has been finding ways to win, it's worth noting their offensive production remains modest—they've scored three goals or fewer in nine of their last 10 contests and average just 2.6 goals per game on the road. Their road record sits at an unremarkable 7-7-1.

The Canucks, on the other hand, should be motivated following consecutive losses earlier this week in Utah and Las Vegas. Vancouver has demonstrated strong play at home recently, evidenced by a 3-1 victory over Colorado in its most recent home game. Starting a three-game homestand, the Canucks have an excellent opportunity to reset and gain momentum against a manageable slate featuring Ottawa, San Jose, and Seattle.

With the Senators due for regression and Vancouver eager to respond in a favorable home setting, I'll back the Canucks to get the win here.

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

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Seattle over Chicago at 8:30 pm ET on Thursday.

Seattle comes into this matchup looking to snap a two-game skid after disappointing offensive performances on home ice. The Kraken managed just one goal in their last two outings, but they’ve been a much more potent offensive team on the road this season, averaging 3.4 goals per game. A change of scenery could be just what they need to get back on track.

Chicago, meanwhile, enters on a rare winning streak, having secured consecutive victories at home against the Islanders and Capitals. However, it's worth noting that the Capitals were caught in a back-to-back situation in their matchup. Seattle, in contrast, has the advantage of having been idle yesterday, leaving them better rested for this contest.

The Blackhawks have been mediocre on home ice, posting a 6-8 record while allowing an average of 3.2 goals per game. Against a Kraken team eager to rebound and capable of producing offensively on the road, Chicago could struggle to keep the streak alive.

Take Seattle. Projected score: Seattle 4, Chicago 3.

My selection is on Dallas over Washington at 8 pm et on Monday.

The Stars are in a strong position to secure a win as they continue their seven-game homestand. Dallas has been dominant on home ice, boasting a 12-2 record while allowing just 1.8 goals per game at American Airlines Center. Although the Stars have scored only three goals over their last two games, they've generated plenty of offensive chances, firing 73 total shots on goal in that span.

Washington, despite its impressive 12-2 road record and four-game winning streak, faces a tough challenge here. The Capitals are coming off a 4-2 victory over Buffalo on Saturday and will now contend with a rested Dallas squad that has been home since December 8th. This quick turnaround and travel spot could hinder Washington against a well-prepared opponent.

Take Dallas. Projected score: Dallas 3, Washington 1.

My selection is on Carolina -1.5 goals over Columbus at 5 pm ET on Sunday.

Carolina has struggled to find consistency recently, dropping five of its last seven games, including a disappointing 3-0 shutout loss to Ottawa on Friday. However, this matchup against a reeling Columbus team presents a prime opportunity for the Hurricanes to bounce back. With a day of rest and revenge in mind following their 5-4 loss to the Blue Jackets in late November, the Hurricanes should come out motivated and aggressive.

Columbus enters this game on the back end of a back-to-back after a 4-3 home loss to Anaheim on Saturday, marking its third straight defeat. The Blue Jackets' road struggles have been well-documented, as they are just 4-9-2 away from home, surrendering an average of 3.9 goals per game. That doesn’t bode well against a Hurricanes team that averages the same 3.9 goals per game on home ice and has been solid with an 11-4 record in Raleigh.

The Blue Jackets’ inability to consistently defend on the road combined with Carolina’s strong home offense and motivation makes this a favorable spot to lay the extra goal. Look for the Hurricanes to control play and secure a convincing victory.

Take Carolina -1.5 goals. Projected score: Carolina 5, Columbus 2.

My selection is on Edmonton over Vegas at 4:05 pm ET on Saturday.

The Oilers have found their stride, winning four straight games and improving to 8-6-1 on home ice this season. Following a disappointing start to the campaign, Edmonton has started to meet expectations, with its offense and goaltending performing at a much higher level. The team will be motivated to avenge a tough 1-0 loss in Las Vegas earlier this month. Having had a day to rest and prepare following a dominant 7-1 road win against Minnesota on Thursday, the Oilers are well-positioned to extend their winning streak.

While Vegas has also won four straight games, it faces a challenging stretch. Saturday marks the middle contest of a three-game road trip, with the Golden Knights coming off a hard-fought 3-2 victory in Winnipeg on Thursday and a quick turnaround to face Minnesota on Sunday. Edmonton’s renewed form and situational advantage should give it the upper hand in this matchup.

Take Edmonton. Projected score: Edmonton 4, Vegas 3.

My selection is on Tampa Bay over Calgary at 9:05 pm ET on Thursday.

Tampa Bay has been a model of consistency this season, and even on the road, it has proven capable of delivering strong performances. The Lightning split the first two games of their current road trip, claiming a solid 4-2 victory over Vancouver before falling just short in a competitive 2-1 loss against Edmonton. This is a team that has shown the ability to adapt to different styles of play, thriving in high-paced shootouts and low-scoring battles alike. With ample offensive firepower and a reliable defensive structure, Tampa Bay is well-positioned to bounce back in Calgary.

The Flames, while boasting a 10-3-1 record at home, are trending in the wrong direction with just two wins in their last eight games. Defensive inconsistency has been a recurring issue, and while Calgary escaped Nashville with a 4-3 victory on Tuesday, they’ve struggled to sustain success, particularly against elite teams. With Tampa Bay’s balanced attack and the Flames prone to lapses, this is an advantageous spot for the Lightning to exploit. Tampa Bay’s depth and ability to play a disciplined road game should carry them to a much-needed victory.

Take Tampa Bay. Projected score: Tampa Bay 3, Calgary 2.

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Edmonton over Tampa Bay at 9:05 pm ET on Tuesday.

Both teams come into this matchup on a positive note, but Edmonton’s recent form has been more consistent, winning five of its last six contests. The Oilers have been playing a strong two-way game, allowing just 12 total goals over that stretch, while finding the back of the net 24 times. With an extra day of rest following Saturday’s 4-2 win over the Blues, Edmonton is in prime position to continue its winning ways.

Tampa Bay is also in solid form, having earned a 4-2 road win against Vancouver on Sunday. However, the Lightning are in the midst of a long road trip and face a quick turnaround against a fresh Oilers team. Edmonton’s offensive depth and ability to control possession at home give it a significant edge in this spot.

Take Edmonton. Projected score: Edmonton 4, Tampa Bay 2.

Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Nashville and Ottawa at 7 pm ET on Saturday.

Nashville has been mired in a slump offensively, seeing the 'under' cash in five straight games as they've been limited to two goals or fewer in each contest. However, this sets up as a prime bounce-back spot for the Predators. Ottawa’s defense has been anything but stout, allowing 3.2 goals per game this season. The Senators have been vulnerable at home, where their games average a combined 6.8 total goals.

Ottawa's recent 2-1 victory over Detroit was an anomaly, breaking a streak of five consecutive 'over' results. The Sens' offense has generally been capable of trading goals, especially in home contests, where they’ve often pushed the pace.

Given Nashville’s urgency to end its six-game losing streak and Ottawa’s tendency to find itself in high-scoring affairs, this matchup has all the makings of a fast-paced, goal-filled contest.

Take the over. Projected score: Nashville 4, Ottawa 3.

Western Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Dallas and Vegas at 10 pm ET on Friday.

Both teams enter this matchup having seen three consecutive games stay 'under' the total, but this contest sets up for a higher-scoring affair. Dallas will look to shake off the sting of Wednesday's 3-2 loss in Los Angeles, and the Stars have struggled defensively on the road, allowing 3.3 goals per game compared to 2.6 goals per game overall. That discrepancy highlights their vulnerability away from home.

Vegas, meanwhile, continues to thrive offensively on home ice, averaging 4.0 goals per game in front of its own fans. The Golden Knights come off a 4-1 win over Anaheim on Wednesday and should capitalize on the Stars' defensive inconsistencies. Additionally, with both teams boasting talented offenses and solid power-play units, special teams could play a significant role in pushing this total over the number.

Take the 'over'. Projected score: Vegas 4, Dallas 3.

My selection is on Tampa Bay -1.5 goals over San Jose at 7 pm ET on Thursday.

San Jose comes into this matchup riding a rare three-game winning streak, including an impressive 2-1 road victory over Washington on Tuesday. However, the Sharks have struggled to sustain success this season, with a 4-7-4 record on the road. Their offense remains inconsistent, and they face a tough test against a well-rested Lightning squad.

Tampa Bay will be eager to bounce back after a disappointing 5-3 loss to Toronto on Saturday. The Lightning have been strong on home ice this season, posting a 7-4-1 record while outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.1 goals. With an explosive offense and solid special teams, Tampa Bay is well-positioned to exploit San Jose’s defensive vulnerabilities and generate plenty of scoring chances.

Look for the Lightning to come out firing and secure a convincing victory.

Take Tampa Bay -1.5 goals. Projected score: Tampa Bay 5, San Jose 2.

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.

My selection is on the 'over' between Vegas and Ottawa at 7 pm ET on Thursday.

While the Golden Knights have struggled to score in their last two games, they remain one of the league’s most potent offensive teams, ranking fourth in goals per game. A matchup with Ottawa provides an excellent opportunity for Vegas to rediscover its scoring touch, as the Senators have allowed 14 goals over their last three games and sit tied for 20th in the league in goals allowed per game. Both teams are looking to bounce back, which should lead to an aggressive, high-energy contest.

The last time these teams met, they combined for 10 goals in a 6-4 Vegas victory, showcasing the offensive potential on both sides. With Ottawa’s defensive vulnerabilities and Vegas eager to end its mini-slump, this game has all the ingredients for another high-scoring affair. Expect plenty of scoring chances and a fast-paced game from start to finish.

Take the over. Projected score: Vegas 5, Ottawa 3.

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 the 'over' between Edmonton and Ottawa at 7 pm ET on Tuesday.

The Oilers enter this matchup having dropped consecutive games, including last night’s 3-0 loss in Montreal, which stayed comfortably below the total. Edmonton has generally struggled defensively this season, ranking 18th in the league in goals allowed per game. Offensively, they’re capable of better than their recent two-game goal drought, and a quick bounce-back effort isn’t out of the question.

Ottawa has allowed nine goals over its last two games, including a 4-0 shutout defeat in Carolina on Saturday. On home ice, the Senators should push the pace and find opportunities against Edmonton's inconsistent defense. The Senators rank just 17th in goals allowed per game and will need to focus on cleaning up their play without sacrificing scoring opportunities.

With both teams eager to rebound and tendencies leaning toward defensive vulnerabilities, this matchup sets up for a higher-scoring affair. Take the over. Projected score: Edmonton 4, Ottawa 3.

Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Edmonton and Montreal at 7:30 pm ET on Monday.

While Edmonton's recent games have leaned toward higher-scoring outcomes, with three of its last four contests totaling seven goals or more, the matchup against Montreal presents a different dynamic. Edmonton ranks 21st in the league in goals per game this season, highlighting inconsistency in finishing chances. However, its defensive structure remains a strength, allowing the third-fewest shots per game in the league, which should help temper Montreal’s scoring opportunities.

Montreal, on the other hand, struggles to generate consistent offensive pressure, ranking 32nd in shots on goal per contest and tied for 19th in goals per game. Despite their 5-1 win over Columbus on Saturday, the Canadiens have generally lacked the firepower to break through strong defensive teams. The last meeting between these two clubs ended in a tight 3-2 victory for Edmonton in March, and a similar low-scoring result is likely given the teams' profiles.

Take the under. Projected score: Edmonton 3, Montreal 2.

My selection is on the 'over' between Columbus and Boston at 7 pm ET on Monday.

This matchup sets up for a high-scoring affair given the defensive vulnerabilities of both teams. Columbus ranks 29th in the league in goals allowed per game and has struggled mightily on the road, where they've posted a 1-6-2 record. Their defense showed little resistance in a 5-1 loss to Montreal on Saturday, and facing a more potent Boston offense only heightens their challenges.

Boston isn’t much better defensively, tied for 24th in the league in goals allowed per game. Their penalty kill has been a glaring issue, ranking 26th, which is compounded by their discipline problems—they’re 31st in penalty minutes per game. These deficiencies could prove costly against a Blue Jackets team that, while inconsistent, is capable of capitalizing on special teams. Expect both offenses to find opportunities in this one.

Take the over. Projected score: Boston 5, Columbus 3.

My selection is on the 'over' between Nashville and Vancouver at 10 pm ET on Sunday.

The Predators' offense has been quiet on their current road trip, tallying just four goals in three games. However, their ninth-place ranking in shots on goal per contest indicates they are generating chances and could be due for a breakout performance. Nashville has also been vulnerable defensively, an issue that could be exposed by Vancouver's potent attack.

The Canucks enter this matchup on a high note after a 4-1 win over Chicago last night. Vancouver has been consistent offensively, ranking in the upper half of the league with an average of 3.2 goals per game. While the Predators have struggled to score, their defense and goaltending have been inconsistent, making this a favorable spot for a higher-scoring game.

Both teams have tendencies that point toward the potential for an offensive uptick, especially with the Predators needing to respond after being shut out.

Take the over. Projected score: Vancouver 4, Nashville 3.

My selection is on San Jose +1.5 goals over Pittsburgh at 7 pm ET on Saturday.

Pittsburgh is currently struggling, having lost three consecutive games, including a lopsided 6-2 defeat to Columbus last night. The Penguins have been inconsistent in recent outings, and the fatigue from back-to-back games could continue to hinder their performance. Pittsburgh's defense has been porous at times, which gives San Jose a chance to keep this game closer than expected.

San Jose, on the other hand, has been more competitive than their record suggests. They are 1-2 on their current road trip, with a close 3-2 loss to the Rangers on Thursday. Despite their overall struggles, the Sharks have been resilient in recent games and have lost just one of their last nine by more than a goal. This strong trend against larger margins makes them a solid pick to keep things tight on the road, especially considering the Penguins' recent lack of sharpness.

Taking the Sharks +1.5 goals offers a good value given their ability to play close games and the Penguins' current struggles.

Projected score: Pittsburgh 4, San Jose 3.

My selection is on the 'under' between Buffalo and Philadelphia at 7 pm ET on Saturday.

Both the Sabres and Flyers have seen the 'over' hit in recent games, but there are key factors that point toward a low-scoring affair here. Buffalo and Philadelphia are both struggling in terms of generating offense, as evidenced by their rankings in shots on goal per game (21st and 28th, respectively). Neither team has been particularly efficient in terms of creating high-quality chances, and this game could see both teams find it difficult to generate sustained offense.

Buffalo is 2-3-1 on the road this season, and Philadelphia is just 3-4 at home. Neither team has been dominant, and with both sides likely to focus on tightening up defensively, this game should feature fewer goals than expected, especially with both teams ranking in the bottom half of the league in shots on goal.

Take the 'under.' Projected score: Buffalo 3, Philadelphia 2.

My selection is on the 'under' between New York and Seattle at 4 pm ET on Saturday.

The Islanders are coming off a 5-2 win in Vancouver on Thursday, which marks their third consecutive 'over' result. However, despite their recent offensive success, the Isles rank just 25th in the league in goals per game, indicating that their offensive output is often more sporadic than consistent. Their overall style tends to lean toward more defensive, low-scoring games, and their struggles to consistently generate offense should limit the total in this one.

Seattle, meanwhile, won 3-1 at home against Chicago on Thursday, and while their offense has been steady (ranked 17th in goals per game), they are also a team that prides itself on solid defensive play. The Kraken have been more focused on keeping games tight rather than engaging in high-scoring affairs.

The last meeting between these two teams resulted in a 2-1 Kraken victory, reflecting the tendency of both squads to engage in lower-scoring contests. With both teams lacking explosive offenses, I expect this game to stay under the total.

Take the 'under'. Projected score: New York 2, Seattle 1.

My selection is on the 'over' between Detroit and Anaheim at 10 pm ET on Friday.

While both teams have seen low-scoring trends recently, their defensive vulnerabilities create an appealing setup for a higher-scoring contest. Detroit's five consecutive 'unders' have been fueled by their inability to capitalize offensively, but they rank near the bottom of the league in shots allowed, opening the door for opponents to find the back of the net. Anaheim, similarly, ranks last in shots allowed per game and has struggled to sustain defensive pressure, particularly against teams with aggressive forechecking.

Both teams feature inconsistent goaltending that could be exposed in this matchup. Detroit has a balanced offensive unit capable of breaking out against weaker defensive squads like Anaheim. Meanwhile, the Ducks have shown flashes of scoring ability, particularly on home ice, and could exploit the Red Wings' defensive lapses.

Look for both teams to generate scoring chances in bunches, leading to a higher-scoring outcome. Take the over. Projected score: Detroit 5, Anaheim 3.

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.

Pacific Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Vancouver -1.5 goals over Calgary at 10 pm ET on Tuesday.

Calgary comes into this game on the heels of a solid 3-1 victory over Los Angeles, but the Flames have been inconsistent on the road this season. Vancouver, on the other hand, will be eager to bounce back from a tough 7-3 home loss to Edmonton on Saturday. While Calgary won the first meeting of the season between these two teams 6-5, Vancouver has shown stronger offensive firepower overall and will look to capitalize on playing at home. The Canucks have the ability to put up big scores, and with their offense at full tilt, they should be able to cover the -1.5 spread in this matchup.

With the Flames' defensive struggles and Vancouver's offensive depth, the Canucks should be favored to win by more than a goal here. Vancouver is motivated to get back into the win column, and this game provides a prime opportunity to do so. Take Vancouver -1.5. Projected score: Vancouver 5, Calgary 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 Detroit +1.5 goals over Toronto at 7:05 pm ET on Friday.

Detroit is coming off a solid 4-1 win in Chicago, where they displayed impressive defensive play and capitalized on their scoring chances. The Red Wings have been strong overall this season, and their ability to maintain consistency against a variety of opponents should serve them well here. With a well-rounded team, Detroit has the depth to keep this game close, even on the road against a high-powered team like Toronto. Detroit’s recent form, including strong performances from key players, gives them confidence going into this matchup, and the +1.5 spread offers good value given their potential to compete.

Toronto, meanwhile, is coming off a dominant 4-0 victory over Boston but will be without their star player, Auston Matthews, who is sidelined with an upper body injury. Matthews’ absence will have a significant impact on the Maple Leafs’ offense, as he has been a key contributor both in scoring and playmaking. While Toronto still has a talented roster, the loss of Matthews creates an opportunity for Detroit to keep the game within reach. The Red Wings' defensive structure and ability to limit high-quality chances will be crucial in keeping the score tight. With the Leafs not at full strength, this is a great spot for Detroit to cover the +1.5 spread.

Take Detroit +1.5 goals. Prediction: Toronto 3, Detroit 2.

My selection is on the 'over' between Vegas and Edmonton at 8:35 pm et on Wednesday.

The Oilers continue to struggle offensively in the absence of Connor McDavid, dropping to 30th in the league in goals per game following Monday's 3-0 loss at the hands of the Devils. They'll need to pick it up in a hurry if they want to compete with the high-flying Golden Knights on Wednesday. Note that Vegas ranks second in the league in goals per game this season. Both teams have allowed over three goals per contest and I get the sense this could turn into a back-and-forth affair in a hurry. The projected goaltending matchup features Adin Hill for the Knights and Stuart Skinner for the Oilers. Both have disappointed in the early going, sporting .874 and .881 save percentages, respectively. Take the over (8*).

Revenge Game of the Month. My selection is on Seattle +1.5 goals over Colorado at 9:05 pm et on Tuesday.

I like the set up for this play on Tuesday as the Kraken come off three straight losses including back-to-back shutout defeats but still sit a single point ahead of the Avalanche in the Pacific Division standings. Colorado is off to a poor start this season - like Seattle, it has also dropped three straight games entering Tuesday's contest. The Kraken will enter this game seeking revenge for a 3-2 home loss against the Avs back on October 22nd. Noting that Seattle ranks tied for eighth in the league in goals allowed per game while Colorado sits in last place (32nd) in that department, we'll grab the extra goal with the Kraken on Tuesday. Take Seattle +1.5 goals (10*).

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*).

Pacific Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Edmonton and Calgary at 8:05 pm et on Sunday.

The first instalment of the Battle of Albert this season resulted in a 4-1 Flames victory. These two rivals couldn't have gotten off to much different starts this season. The Oilers struggled out of the gate and lost Connor McDavid to injury last week. However, in their first game without McDavid on Thursday, the Oilers produced five goals in a rout of the Predators in Nashville. There's reason to believe Edmonton can still thrive without their superstar as we've seen it do just that in the past. I like the revenge angle here and figure the Oilers will be able to produce offensively against a Flames squad that ranks a middling 15th in the league in goals allowed per game and 27th in shots allowed per contest. Some defensive regression is also to be expected with Calgary coming off a shutout victory over the Devils on Friday. On the flip side, the Flames offense bounced back as expected in that return home against New Jersey. Here, they should benefit from facing an Oilers team that checks in ranked 22nd in the league in goals allowed per game, giving up just shy of 3.3. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Columbus and Washington at 5:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Capitals are coming off consecutive high-scoring games to open their three-game homestand but I look for a different story to unfold on Saturday. Columbus will likely have no interest in an up-and-down affair having just played last night (at home against Winnipeg). Trading goals with a Capitals team that ranks top-three in the league in goals per game this season isn't going to get them a positive result in this contest. Of note, while the Caps have been outstanding offensively, they've been just as good in their own end of the rink where they've given up just 3.0 goals per contest - also good for third in the NHL. Oddly enough, these divisional foes haven't met since last December, when Washington skated to a relatively low-scoring 3-2 victory. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between New Jersey and Calgary at 9:05 pm et on Friday.

The Devils are coming off a 6-0 rout of the Canucks in Vancouver to open their current road trip and rank ninth in the league in goals per game this season. They draw a favorable matchup on Friday as the reeling Flames check in ranked tied for 21st in the NHL in goals allowed per contest. I do think we see Calgary break through offensively sooner rather than later, however, noting that it scored a grand total of one goal during its two-game jaunt to Las Vegas and Utah. Note that the Flames have produced 17 goals in regulation time in five previous home games this season. The last time these two teams met Calgary skated to a 5-3 win last February. Take the over (8*).

Non-Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Seattle and Toronto at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

Both of these teams are coming off high-scoring games with Seattle producing a whopping eight goals in a rout of the Canadiens and Toronto scoring six goals in a victory over the Jets last time out. I'm anticipating a much lower-scoring affair on Thursday, noting that the most recent matchup between these teams produced only four total goals last January. For all of their firepower, the Leafs check in ranked tied for 15th in the league in goals per game this season. Here, they'll run into a Kraken squad that has allowed three goals or less in four of their last five games and ranks 10th in the league in goals allowed per contest. The Leafs gave up five goals in their most recent home game, last week against St. Louis. However, they had allowed a grand total of only 10 goals in their four previous contests at home. Take the under (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*).

My selection is on Los Angeles -1.5 goals over San Jose at 10:05 pm et on Tuesday.

This is a difficult spot for the Sharks as they travel back home from Utah on no rest following last night's incredible 5-4 come-from-behind victory in overtime. San Jose trailed that game 4-1 entering the third period but staged an unlikely rally to produce its first win of the season. It will be in tough trying to follow up that performance with another strong showing on Tuesday as it hosts the rested Kings. Los Angeles has been idle since Saturday, when it skated to a 3-2 home win over aforementioned Utah. The Kings are off to a terrific 5-2-2 start to the season including a 3-2 victory over the Sharks last week. Look for a more dominant performance from Los Angeles on Tuesday night in the Shark Tank. Take Los Angeles -1.5 goals (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*).

Pacific Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Calgary and Vegas at 10:05 pm et on Monday.

The Golden Knights have exploded for 19 goals during their current three-game winning streak. I'm anticipating some offensive regression moving forward and I think we'll see just that against a Flames club that gave up five goals in a home loss to the Jets on Saturday. Calgary is still off to a solid 5-2-1 start to the season and has allowed just 3.0 goals per contest - good for eighth (tied) in the league in that department. On the flip side, you would have to go back six games to find the last time Calgary produced more than three goals in a game. The last time these two teams squared off last March they combined to score only five goals. Take the under (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*).

Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Dallas and Boston at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

Both of these offenses have sputtered lately. Dallas checks in off a 4-2 loss in Buffalo on Tuesday while Boston dropped a 4-0 decision in Nashville on the same night. The Bruins should get a lift from returning home on Thursday while the Stars just need to keep firing pucks on night and the goals will come (they recorded 30 shots on goal in Tuesday's loss while the Bruins allowed a whopping 42 against Nashville). The most recent matchup between these two teams took place last February as the Bruins skated to a 4-3 victory. I believe this total has been set too low based on recent results as the firepower is certainly there on both sides to produce a relatively high-scoring affair. Take the over (10*).

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*).

Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Edmonton and Florida at 8:20 pm et on Monday.

This is it. It's a winner-take-all Game 7 in the Stanley Cup Final on Monday night in Sunrise and I don't think I'm making all that bold of a prediction in calling for goals to come at a premium.

Yes, the series has turned rather high-scoring in favor of the Oilers over the last three games. In fact, the 'over' has come through in four straight contests after three consecutive 'unders' to open the series. That's notable as the 'under' has gone 5-1 with the Oilers coming off four straight 'over' results this season (and 61-41 in their last 102 games in that situation).

Additionally, the 'under' is 6-0 with Edmonton coming off three straight victories by two goals or more this season.

I think it's going to take a miraculous effort for the Panthers to lock in and solve Oilers red hot goaltender Stuart Skinner on Monday. The longer series' have gone, the stronger Skinner has gotten throughout these playoffs and that has certainly held true in this matchup. The Oilers offense gets a lot of the press, but Skinner has been right there as a potential MVP candidate in this series.

Meanwhile, this might as well be termed as a 'legacy game' for Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky. Have the Oilers gotten into his head? Maybe. I like that the Panthers gave him an extra day off from practice to clear his head and expect a much better performance from him on Monday. Take the under (10*).

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*).