Sports Picks & Predictions

6-unit Play Take #4 Vegas Golden Knights over Winnipeg Jets (9:05pm EST) The fairy tale season for Vegas just keeps on getting better. This team is no longer just a good story, though. The Knights might just be the best team in the NHL. They showed some rust in Game 1 of this series but bounced right back with a dominating performance in Game 2. All they needed was a split in those first two games and mission accomplished. The Knights now come back to T-Mobile Arena, where they have one of the biggest home ice advantages in the league. That place will be rocking, and the Knights will feed off the energy. Marc-Andre Fleury looks to be locked in again and that's such a huge advantage to have the best goalie on your side. Take Vegas to win Game 3 in our NHL Game of the Week.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #57 Vegas Golden Knights over Winnipeg Jets (8:05pm EST) Vegas was clearly rusty in Game 1 after a long layoff after beating the Sharks. I thought it could be an advantage for the Knights, but the rust was a bigger factor than the rest. I think the Knights bounce back in Game 2 in a big way. Vegas hasn't lost consecutive games in the postseason and they're one of the better teams at making adjustments, which is attributed to their coaching staff. The Knights got better as Game 1 progressed, so I think they'll continue that tonight. The key is getting off to a good start, and not falling behind by three goals early again. Take the Knights in Game 2.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

I'm laying the money line price with the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday. The Lightning looked flat and we saw their coaches begging and pleading the players to wake-up and get with it on the bench before the start of the second period in game one. Washington took full advantage of Tampa's lethargic play. But I expect Tampa to be focused from the outset of game two, which means their speed advantage will be on full display. Tampa Bay has won 38 of their last 53 home games and the home team between these two teams is on a 20-8 winning run. I'm laying the M-L with the Lightning on Sunday. Thanks & GL! 

4-unit Play Take #21 Vegas Golden Knights over Winnipeg Jets (7:05pm EST) Vegas comes in with a lot of rest in Game 1 of the Western Conference Final. We saw what they did to San Jose with a ton of rest, destroying the Sharks 7-0 in the series opener. Tonight's game isn't going to be that one-sided, but the Jets just got through a really tough seven-game series with the Predators. They may be a little bit gassed for this one and that's totally understandable. See series write-up below for additional information. We're on Vegas in Game 1.

3-unit Play Take #24 Tampa Bay Lightning over Washington Capitals (8:05pm EST) As we state in the write-up below, we really like the Lightning to win this series. We won't repeat any of that here. Both teams have had a long rest leading up to this Game 1, which might lead to some sloppy play early on. However, I think the home teams will have a big advantage in each game of the series. Tampa was 29-10-2 at home this season and the Caps were 28-11-2 at home. Both teams were barely above .500 on the road. Take the Bolts to win Game 1.

4-unit Play Take #53 Winnipeg Jets/Nashville Predators OVER 5.5 (+110) (8:05pm EST) This is what the Stanley Cup Playoffs are all about. Game 7 in Nashville between the Jets and Predators. Winner advances to the Western Conference Finals against Vegas and the loser goes home. This has been a fantastic series from a viewing standpoint. Part of the reason is the volume of scoring chances that each team has been able to create. We've seen an average of 67 shots on goal per game and plenty of high-danger scoring chances. The average goals per game has been 6.7 through the first six contests. I don't expect Game 7 to be any different. There's also a high likelihood of an empty net goal or two tonight. Teams are going to be aggressive in pulling their goalie out of the net if they're done late since this is an elimination game for both teams. Plenty of reasons to love the OVER in this one.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #4 Winnipeg Jets over Nashville Predators (9:30pm EST) The Winnipeg Jets have been the better team in this series plain and simple. They were the underdogs coming into the series but have quickly showed why they amassed the second most points in the NHL during the regular season. The Jets got some key pieces back from injury earlier in the series and the team is now clicking on all cylinders. Nashville has a huge goaltending problem and there's no immediate answer for it. Pekka Rinne has been downright awful in the playoffs and it's hard to imagine he'll be out there in Game 6. Winnipeg is also the best home team in the NHL as they were 32-7-2 at home during the regular season. Take the Jets tonight to clinch the series in Game 6.

4-unit Play Take #65 Vegas Golden Knights/San Jose Sharks OVER 5.5 (+110) (7:35pm EST) Tonight is Game 6 in San Jose between the Knights and Sharks. Every game in this series has gone easily over the total except for one and there's no reason to believe that Game 6 will be any different. These teams have averaged 6.6 goals per game in the series and there have been plenty of quality scoring chances on both sides. Also take into account that both goalies have made sensational, which means scoring could have been even higher. There's still plus odds on the OVER and that's too good to pass up.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #60 Washington Capitals (-115) over Pittsburgh Penguins (7:15pm  EST) There's not much to today's handicap of the Capitals over the Penguins. The series is tied 2-2, but the Caps have been the slightly better team overall. And the deeper these playoffs go, the more fatigued Pittsburgh will be given that they've won the last two Stanley Cups. Washington gets the job done today at home in Game 5.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #26 Vegas Golden Knights over San Jose Sharks (10:05pm EST) Pivotal Game 5 goes tonight in Las Vegas as the Golden Knights and Sharks are all knotted up at two games apiece. These teams have shown to be very evenly-matched overall. Each team has enjoyed one thrashing while the other two games have gone into overtime and were split with each team winning 4-3. Home ice is big in the playoffs and I think it plays a big role in Game 5. Vegas was one of the best home teams in the NHL this season and their fan base is one of the loudest in the league already. I also love having the better goaltender in Marc-Andre Fleury. Martin Jones was great in Game 4, but Fleury has consistently been the best goalie in hockey this season. Take the Knights to get this victory tonight.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #19 Washington Capitals over Pittsburgh Penguins (7:05pm EST) We have been riding the Capitals this series and think they have a good chance to notch another win tonight in Pittsburgh. They've clearly been the better team in this series, but everyone its expecting the Penguins to just flip the switch when they need to. I think this team is a little fatigued from its attempt at three straight Stanley Cup victories. Play Washington at the juicy underdog price.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

10-unit Play Take #57 Vegas Golden Knights/San Jose Sharks OVER (10:05pm EST) NHL PLAYOFF GAME OF THE YEAR. Linesmakers are sometimes slow to adjust and this is clearly one of those cases. Each of the three games in this series has seen seven goals scored. The totals were 5, 5.5 and 5.5 for those games. Even more telling, the number of premium scoring chances has been off the charts. If Marc-Andre Fleury was actually human, the Sharks have at least three or four more goals in this series. This is a huge game for San Jose and they were great in the first period in Game 3. I expect them to come out aggressive again and set the pace for another up and down game. The total on this one should at least be six goals and a half goal difference is huge for a total. Play the OVER in our big NHL playoff total of the year tonight.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #51 Washington Capitals over Pittsburgh Penguins (7:35pm EST) The Washington Capitals have been labeled as chokers in the playoffs for years and they deserve it. They haven't gotten past the second round of the postseason since 1998 despite qualifying for the playoffs 12 times. It looked like it was going to be another year of choking for the Caps when they fell behind 2-0 in the series versus Columbus. But the Capitals responded with four straight victories to come out on top. In Game 1 of this series, the Caps blew a late 2-0 lead by giving up three consecutive goals in the third period. The choke label came back. But Washington responded with a big effort in Game 2 as they won 4-1. This team is grittier than the Caps teams in the past. They don't have as much firepower as some of their past teams, but they've played through some adversity and I like their chances to win this series. I see value at this price in Game 3 as well. Evgeni Malkin is still questionable for Pittsburgh and they looked out of sorts in the last game. Take the Caps.

4-unit Play Take #17 Vegas Golden Knights/San Jose Sharks OVER (10:05pm EST) We cashed in on the OVER in Games 1 and 2 of this series, and I don't see any reason to jump off the bandwagon for Game 3. This series has featured a ton of great scoring chances on both ends. We've also seen quite a few power plays due to the chippiness of both teams. Both goaltenders were excellent in the first round, but they are showing that they're both human as well in the second round. Play the OVER in Game 3 in San Jose.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #12 Washington Capitals (-115) over Pittsburgh Penguins (3:05pm EST) The Washington Capitals were up 2-0 in the third period of Game 1 and couldn't hold on. They fell 3-2 and the choke word immediately came up for the Caps around the league. I don't put much stock in the past failures of the Capitals. It might be in their heads a little, but this series is far from over. The Caps were the better team in Game 1, and if they play like that again they will likely come out on top. Evgeni Malkin is questionable for the Penguins and that could be problematic. Take the Caps to even up this series in Game 2.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #89 San Jose Sharks/Vegas Golden Knights OVER (8:05pm EST) It's difficult to understand this line. The linesmaker and betting markets clearly got the Game 1 total wrong when they opened in near five flat. They moved it to 5.5 for Game 2, but it's juiced heavily towards the under. The Sharks and Knights both like to use their speed and create a high volume of scoring chances. This is going to be a finesse series, unlike the matchup for both of these teams in round one. I think we could see seven goals again like we did in Game 1. Maybe this time the Sharks will actually chip in a little bit. Play the OVER.

4-unit Play Take #85 Boston Bruins over Tampa Bay Lightning (3:05pm EST) These might be the best two teams in the NHL matching up in the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Bruins just missed winning the division by a lone point to the Lightning. The Bruins had a +56 point differential. The Bolts were at +60. During the regular season, these teams met four times and won three of them. These teams are very even on paper and I think you would do well just playing the underdog in every game of the series. For now, we'll go that direction in Game 1 with Boston. I'm a little worried about the Lightning having a week off before this game tonight. There is likely to be a bit of rust to shake off. Play the Bruins here in Game 1.

4-unit Play Take #84 Nashville Predators over Winnipeg Jets (8:05pm EST) No team in the league was playing better than Nashville was in the final two months of the NHL regular season. The Predators did have a couple of subpar efforts versus the Avalanche in the first round, but I still think the Preds are the best in the West. They're especially tough to beat at home where they amassed a 28-9-4 record. The Jets were not very good on the road this season, so home ice advantage will be significant in this series. Winnipeg also is bringing back a few guys that were banged up in the last series. I'm not sure the chemistry will be there for Game 1, so I like Nashville to get this one.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

6-unit Play Take #81 San Jose Sharks/Vegas Golden Knights OVER 5 (+105) (10:05pm EST) It's been eight days since the Sharks last took the ice and nine days for the Knights. That's about as long as a layoff as you'll see in the postseason, so I expect some things to change from what we saw in round one. For the Sharks, it was all about Martin Jones. He stopped 128 of the 132 shots on goal (a .970 save percentage) for a 1.00 goals against average. Goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury was even better for Vegas. Fleury stopped 127 of the 130 shots (a .977 save percentage) he faced for a 0.75 goals against average. Those numbers are insanely good, but don't expect to see it in Game 1 tonight. With the long layoff, I expect a little bit of goaltender rust. In addition, the Sharks and Knights were both engaged in very physical first round series against the Ducks and Kings. That had more to do with the Ducks and Kings than the Sharks and Knights. I expect a much more wide-open finesse type of style being played in this series. That should lead to some better scoring chances overall. Play the OVER in Game 1.

4-unit Play Take #88 Washington Capitals (-125) over Pittsburgh Penguins (7:05pm EST) The Washington Capitals weren't super impressive during the regular season despite winning the difficult Metropolitan Division. Then they fell behind 2-0 in the first round versus Columbus while losing both of their home games. Many were writing them off, but the Capitals came back with a vengeance. They won four straight games to take the series in six games. The offense is clearly clicking better now that at any point this season, including Alex Ovechkin, who is looking for that elusive Cup. The Penguins come into today's Game 1 banged up. Superstar Evgeni Malkin is definitely out for this one and winger Carl Hagelin looks to be out as well. I like Washington in Game 1.

2-unit Play Take #26 Boston Bruins over Toronto Maple Leafs (7:30pm EST) It's the deciding game 7 tonight in Boston between the Bruins and the Leafs. Boston has been the better team for the majority of this series, and especially at home. In the three games in Boston, the Bruins have outscored the Leafs 15-8 while outshooting them 113-81. There's no reason to expect that to change tonight. The Bruins get this done in Game 7.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

10-unit Play Take #20 Columbus Blue Jackets over Washington Capitals (7:35pm EST) STANLEY CUP PLAYOFF GAME OF THE YEAR. What a series we've had between the Blue Jackets and Capitals thus far. Four of the first five games have gone into overtime and the teams have taken turns dominating play in each game in the series. In Game 5, the Blue Jackets were clearly the better team for the majority of the contest. They outshot the Caps 42-29 overall, including 16-1 in the third period. After the game, Columbus head coach John Tortorella said he was pleased with the effort of his team despite the loss in overtime. He also said something you don't often hear from head coaches. Tortorella told the media in the postgame press conference that the Jackets would be back in Washington D.C. for a Game 7. A couple of questions later, Tortorella doubled down and said it again. While it wasn't a guarantee that his team would win Game 6, it's about the closest thing you'll ever hear from a head coach. Players have guaranteed wins in all sports in the past, but you just don't see it in coaching, so I think it's noteworthy. Tortorella knows how well his team played in Game 5. He knows they deserved to win that game and he's confident his players will extend this series in Game 6 in front of their home fans. Anything can happen in hockey, but I'd be surprised if the Capitals outplayed the Jackets tonight in Game 6. That's not to say that Braden Holtby can't steal one for Washington, but I think Columbus should be a bigger favorite in this game. Take the Blue Jackets in our 8-unit NHL Playoff Game of the Year.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #67 Toronto Maple Leafs over Boston Bruins (8:05pm EST) The Toronto Maple Leafs come into tonight's action down 3-1 in the series, but don't count them out just yet. Toronto has played better than the final scores indicate, and they don't deserve to be this big of an underdog tonight in Game 5. Patrice Bergeron is banged up for Boston and that could be an issue despite Boston playing well through it in the last contest. The value is on Toronto and that's the direction we're looking tonight.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #12 Winnipeg Jets over Minnesota Wild (7:35pm EST) The Winnipeg Jets have been absolutely dominant at home in this series and there's no reason to believe tonight will be any different. The Jets outshot the Wild 84-37 in Games 1 and 2 and Winnipeg, but the final scores were deceiving (3-2 and 4-1). I expect an easy winner tonight to close out the series for the Jets.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #7 Philadelphia Flyers over Pittsburgh Penguins (7:05pm EST) The Flyers were shut down at home in Games 3 and 4 of this series by scores of 5-1 and 5-0. The Penguins looked fantastic, but much of their success came on the power play (while the Flyers were 0-for-10 on power plays). This series has ben fairly one-sided in every game, but I think we finally see a close one on Friday. The Flyers aren't going to just roll over and this betting line is basically saying the series is already over. The Flyers have a good shot of getting this series back to Philly. Take the Flyers in Game 5.

4-unit Play Take #3 Washington Capitals (+100) over Columbus Blue Jackets (7:35pm EST) Even though they trail the series 2-1, it's clear that the Washington Capitals have been the better team. All three games went to overtime and could have went either way, but the Caps have outshot the Blue Jackets by a combined 133-92 margin. This Washington team struggled at times during the regular season, but they seem pretty locked in right now to me. I like the Caps as underdogs in Game 4.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #58 Colorado Avalanche over Nashville Predators (10:05pm EST) The Colorado Avalanche are the lowest rated team to make the postseason this year but that won't stop them from competing. They won Game 3 and hung around in the first two contests as well. In fact, the Preds have outshot the Avs by a combined total of six shots over the entire series. It's been nip and tuck and I think Game 4 will be a battle as well. Colorado has one of the strongest home ice advantages in the game and they're not getting much respect by linesmakers. This line should be 10-15 cents lower. Take Colorado to even up this series.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #51 Washington Capitals over Columbus Blue Jackets (7:35pm EST) The Columbus Blue Jackets are up 2-0 in this series after back-to-back overtime wins in Washington D.C. Those games could have easily gone the other way and the Caps would have a 2-0 lead right now. In fact, Washington was arguably the better team in each contest based on the shot totals and puck possession. The Caps have choked in the playoffs for years, but I think that narrative gets way overplayed and leads to inefficient prices. I think the Capitals get back on track with a win tonight in Columbus.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #28 Toronto Maple Leafs over Boston Bruins (7:00pm EST) There's no question that the Bruins have dominated the Leafs so far in this playoff series. They won 5-1 and 7-3 and the game was never in doubt in either one. But now the series shifts to Toronto, and I see things changing a bit. The Leafs are too good of a team not to respond. They had the sixth best regular season in regard to points and were fifth in goal differential. They were also playing very good hockey down the stretch. I expect Game 3 to look a lot different than the first two games. It's going to be less wide open and more about defense than offense. I think the Leafs find a way to draw this series closer.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #21 Winnipeg Jets over Minnesota Wild (7:00pm EST) The scores don't fully reflect it, but the Winnipeg Jets have absolutely dominated the first two games of this series. The Jets have outshot the Wild by a combined 84-37 despite leading for the majority of those two games. Now the series shifts to Minnesota, but I don't think it's going to change all that much. The Wild are missing some key guys and they just don't have it right now. Take Winnipeg at the very short price today.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Puck Line Play Take #59 Colorado Avalanche +1.5 PL over Nashville Predators (3:00pm EST) The Colorado Avalanche played surprisingly well in Game 1 in Nashville. They hung around until late in the third period and showed that they're not just happy to make the playoffs. The final score wasn't really indicative of what took place. The Preds won 5-2 but the shots were almost even and the game was tied up late. I expect the Avs to bring their A-game against and keep this one close enough to cover the puck line. Take the Avs +1.5 goals.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #54 Winnipeg Jets over Minnesota Wild (7:30pm EST) The Winnipeg Jets dominated Game 1 in this series. The final score was deceptive, as the Jets won 3-2. But Winnipeg outshot Minnesota 40-20 and looked like the better team pretty much from start to finish. The Wild are banged up right now and I don't see how they can win this series. Take the Jets to win more easily in Game 2.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Puck Line Play Take #51 Philadelphia Flyers (+1.5 PL) over Pittsburgh Penguins (7:00pm EST) The Penguins blasted the Flyers 7-0 in Game 1. The game was over early on, but the betting markets have overreacted in a big way. The Game 2 line is more than 20 cents higher and nothing has changed. There are no changes in injuries to speak of. Bettors don't like playing teams that just got smoked the game before, but that's where the value is on this one. Take Philadelphia on the puck line +1.5 goals.

4-unit Play Take #13 Columbus Blue Jackets over Washington Capitals (7:30pm EST) Washington won the tough Metropolitan Division and posted 105 points on the season. On the surface level, it looks like another strong season from the Caps. However, a deeper dive shows a team that was below part in puck possession and was lucky to win a lot of close games this season. They aren't nearly as good as they have been over the last few years. Now they face off against a Columbus team that is playing extremely well. The Blue Jackets finished the regular season on a 13-2-2 run and beat some really good teams along the way. They are peaking at just the right time and I think they steal Game 1 in D.C.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #865 Los Angeles Kings over Vegas Golden Knights (10:05pm EST) See our series write-up below. Lots of value on the Kings in this series and I Vegas is likely to get off to a slow start in Game 1. Reilly Smith, who has been a huge part of the amazing top line for Vegas this season, just returned from injury and it's going to take him a while to get back to form and have chemistry with his line mates. The Kings have been here before and I think that experience goes a long way. Take Los Angeles in Game 1.

8-unit Play Take #72 St. Louis Blues/Colorado Avalanche UNDER (9:05pm EST) The playoffs are on the line tonight in Colorado as the Avalanche hosts the Blues. These two teams have been neck and neck down the stretch to grab that last playoff spot in the Western Conference and now they square off in a virtual one-game playoff to decide who earns that final spot. The intensity will be high and I don't expect to see too many great scoring opportunities. In reviewing the shot totals for these two teams in recent weeks, both teams have seen a decrease in their scoring chances on both ends of the ice. I wouldn't be surprised if this game ends up being a 1-0 and 2-1 type of battle. We are on the UNDER in our NHL Total of the Year.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #5 St. Louis Blues over Chicago Blackhawks (8:35pm EST) The St. Louis Blues have been shooting themselves in the foot lately. They've lost four straight games down the stretch and are now one point behind for the very last playoff spot in the Western Conference. They let a late lead slip away against the Hawks in St. Louis on Wednesday, and now these two square off again in Chicago. The Blues were the better team for the majority of that last game. I don't think they let another one slip away like that with only two games left in the regular season and their playoff hopes resting in the balance. Take the Blues tonight.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

5-unit Play Take #59 Pittsburgh Penguins over Columbus Blue Jackets (7:05pm EST) Big game tonight in Columbus as the Blue Jackets host the Penguins. These two teams are tied in the standings with two games remaining in the regular season. The winner of this game will likely get home ice in the first round of the playoffs where these two teams could square off again. Both teams started the season slow but have been playing their best hockey over the last couple of months. I give Pittsburgh the edge because they've won all the big games over the last two years while earning two Stanley Cups. Columbus is also coming off of two straight overtime games, so they could be a little bit gassed tonight. Play the Pens at the underdog price in our NHL Game of the Week.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #58 Boston Bruins/Tampa Bay Lightning UNDER 6 (-120) (7:35pm EST) Another big game tonight between the Bruins and Lightning. These two teams met in Boston where the Bruins won 4-2 and took control of the Atlantic Division. The Lightning have the chance to even things up in the division with a win tonight, this time in Tampa. I expect another playoff-type atmosphere. The last matchup only featured 58 shots on goal between these two. If we see that again, there's a good chance we go UNDER the total. I like the UNDER tonight.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #12 Colorado Avalanche/Los Angeles Kings UNDER 5.5 (10:35pm EST) The matchup between the Avs and Kings tonight will have a playoff-like atmosphere. Both teams are amongst a group of four fighting four for the last three playoff spots in the Western Conference. Someone is going to be left out, so these last few contests are enormous. The Kings have been playing lower scoring affairs of late, with six of their last nine going under the total. Colorado has seen four straight contests go under the total and only one of their last 10 games have gone over. I see a 3-1 or 3-2 type of contest tonight in Los Angeles. Play the UNDER.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #58 Pittsburgh Penguins over Washington Capitals (7:35pm EST) The Pittsburgh Penguins are sitting five points behind the Capitals with just four games remaining in the regular season. They're not likely to catch the Caps, but this is a statement game nonetheless. The Pens have been playing much better hockey over the last couple of months, as they always seem to round into form come playoff time. Washington, meanwhile, hasn't had a great regular season in terms of the numbers. They're leading the division, but are way down when it comes to puck possession. They have picked it up lately, but Pittsburgh is still the better team. Take the Penguins at home here.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #21 Edmonton Oilers over Calgary Flames (8:05pm EST) The Flames are another team that has completely fallen apart down the stretch. They've lost seven straight and 12 of their last 15 games overall. To make matters worse, their star winger Johnny Goudreau is now out of the lineup with an injury. Edmonton has been out of the playoff hunt for virtually the entire season, but they've played some good hockey over the last month or so. They are 7-4-2 in their 13 contests and are looking to finish up on a positive note. Take the Oilers to get the victory here.

5-unit Play Take #17 Minnesota Wild over Dallas Stars (8:05pm EST) The Dallas Stars have completely collapsed. Just a few weeks ago it looked like they had a playoff spot all but wrapped up. But with just two wins in their last 13 contests, the Stars are now nearly eliminated from the postseason and they know it. The air has been taken out of this team and, at this point, they are probably more focused on getting out on the golf course than they are the ice. Minnesota pasted the Stars 5-2 on Thursday, and I think they do it again tonight. Take the Wild in what should be an easy one.

5-unit Play Take #61 St. Louis Blues (+135) over Vegas Golden Knights (10:35pm EST) The St. Louis Blues were dead in the water a couple of weeks ago. They've been revived. The Blues have won eight of their last nine contests and are currently holding onto a playoff spot in the Western Conference. It hasn't been pretty hockey, but the Blues have beaten some really good teams during this run and they're much better than the Vegas Knights right now. Vegas is banged up and have dropped five of eight games. They played terrible in their last game against the Coyotes - a 3-2 loss. The Knights have really missed Reilly Smith on their top line. They don't deserve to be this big of a favorite, so the value is on the Blues. Take St. Louis is our NHL Game of the Week.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #3 Pittsburgh Penguins over New Jersey Devils (7:05pm EST) This is a big matchup with playoff implications between the Penguins and Devils. Neither team has clinched a postseason berth yet and these two squads are separated by just four points in the standings. The Pens are coming off of an ugly 5-2 loss to the Red Wings and they has left a sour taste in their mouths coming into this one. New Jersey, meanwhile, has won three straight - all narrow one-goal victories, including a 4-3 overtime win against Pittsburgh a week ago. I thin Pittsburgh gets their revenge tonight on the road in Jersey.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #57 Arizona Coyotes (+220) over Vegas Golden Knights (10:05pm EST) We scored on a couple of big underdogs last night, and we're going there again tonight for similar reasons. The betting lines are getting too high of late. Vegas is laying -260 tonight and they haven't been playing particularly good hockey. The injury bug has bitten them and they've went from one of the best teams in the NHL to a mediocre squad. Reilly Smith being out is really hurting that top line and I think they could struggle against Arizona in this one. The Coyotes are coming off of an impressive 4-1 win in Tampa and they've won five of their last nine games overall. This line is about 30 cents too high, so we're on the Coyotes.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #18 Vancouver Canucks (+185) over Anaheim Ducks (10:05pm EST)

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #6 Detroit Red Wings (+185) over Pittsburgh Penguins (7:35pm EST) It's late in the season and the teams on the verge of the playoffs seem to be playing well, while the bottom-feeders have been struggling to get wins. The linesmakers have been making adjustments to the betting lines, but I think they've gone too far now. The Red Wings and Canucks aren't good hockey teams, but to be getting these prices on home teams is too good to pass up. These lines are close to 20 cents too high, so we're taking two big dogs tonight.

4-unit Play Take #68 Calgary Flames/Los Angeles Kings UNDER 5.5 (-125) (10:35pm EST) The Calgary Flames have effectively ended their chances at the postseason with five straight losses. They've been horrible on both ends of the ice lately, but scoring has been particularly tough for the Flames over the last couple of weeks. Over their last nine games, Calgary is averaging 1.33 goals per game. It's hard to imagine things are going to improve tonight in Los Angeles against a stingy Kings defense. Los Angles hasn't allowed more than three goals over their last six contests. This is their first game back after a short four-game road trip. I don't expect many scoring chances, so we're on the UNDER here.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #62 New York Islanders (-125) over Chicago Blackhawks (7:05pm EST) No team is ready for the regular season to end more than the Chicago Blackhawks. They've been in the cellar of the Central Division for the majority of the year and never found their rhythm. The Hawks have lost five straight and the scores haven't been close. Over the last five they've been outscored 26-12 collectively. The Islanders haven't been playing great of late either, but they went toe-to-toe with the Lightning last time in a 7-6 loss and beat the Penguins the game before that. Take the Islanders to get this one at home.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #58 Montreal Canadiens (+160) over Washington Capitals (7:05pm EST) The Capitals aren't the same team they've been in recent years. They're still atop the Metropolitan Division, but they've been fortunate to win many games in which they were outplayed. The Canadiens are struggling, but this price is just too big to pass up. Take the big home underdog Montreal.

3-unit Play Take #5 Anaheim Ducks (+130) over Winnipeg Jets (8:05pm EST) The Anaheim Ducks are a completely different team than they were earlier on in the season. Injuries ravaged the team in the early months, but they're mostly healthy now and are playing like we expected. The Ducks have won four straight and will be a dangerous out in the playoffs. They've outscored the opposition 15-4 collectively over those last four contests, but tonight will be a tough assignment. The Ducks invade Winnipeg to take on the Jets. Winnipeg has won three straight games and put together quite a nice season amid mediocre expectations. I have these teams rated about equal right now, so this line is about 10-15 cents after factoring in home ice advantage. Take the Ducks.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

7-unit Play Take #68 Colorado Avalanche over Los Angeles Kings (9:05pm EST) The Colorado Avalanche are one of the great turnaround stories in the NHL in recent years. After a historically dismal 2017-17 campaign that saw them garner just 48 points, the Avs have 88 points with nine games remaining and are well-positioned for a playoff spot. One of the reasons for the resurgence of the Avs is that they have defended their home ice very well, going 25-9-2 so far on the season. Tonight they host the Los Angeles Kings. The Kings are in good shape as far as the playoffs are concerned as well, but they haven't been playing consistent hockey of late. It's been three weeks since Los Angeles has been able to notch back-to-back wins. The Kings are also coming off of back-to-back overtime contests, and this will be their third game in four nights. Fatigue is real this time of year and the Kings are going to be gasping for air in the high altitude in Denver. Colorado has won five of its last six games and we like them tonight in our NHL Game of the Month.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #6 Boston Bruins/St. Louis Blues UNDER (8:05pm EST) Today's game between the Boston Bruins and St. Louis Blues is marred by some big injuries. Boston is without three of its best players in Patrice Bergeron, Zdeno Chara and David Backes. The Blues are missing dynamic winger Vladmir Tarasenko. That's going to cut down on the premium scoring chances for both teams, and I don't think it's fully reflected in the betting total. This line should be at five, or heavily juice to the UNDER at 5.5. As a result, we're gladly take the UNDER here.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #70 Vancouver Canucks/Vegas Golden Knights UNDER (10:05pm EST) The Vegas Golden Knights have had a record-breaking season as an expansion team. They've led the Pacific Division for nearly the entire season and have a lot to be proud of as a franchise. Lately, however, they haven't been very good on the ice. Injuries and fatigue may be setting in for the Knights at this point. They play an extremely aggressive style and it may have finally caught up with them. They haven't been scoring the puck at the same rate as they did earlier in the season and it's led to some tough outcomes of late. Tonight they host the Vancouver Canucks and they come in with a six-game losing streak. Offense has the been the problem as the Canucks are averaging just 1.00 goal per game during this stretch. I expect the game tonight to go UNDER the total.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #6 Montreal Canadiens (+130) over Florida Panthers (7:35pm EST) The Florida Panthers have been fighting hard to stay in the playoff race in the Eastern Conference. They've played well over the last month or so, but the price today is a little too high. The Panthers shouldn't be favored by this much on the road to a team like the Montreal Canadiens. While Montreal isn't a playoff contender, they have played well at home this season (17-11-8). This line is about 10-15 cents too high, so we're on Montreal.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #64 Dallas Stars/Winnipeg Jets UNDER 6 (-130) (7:35pm EST) Big game for the Stars and Jets, who are both trying to lock up playoff spots down the stretch in the Western Conference. I expect a playoff-type atmosphere tonight in Winnipeg. Both of these teams have been sputtering a bit in recent weeks, but the defense has been tightening up. Winnipeg games have gone UNDER in six of the last seven games. For Dallas, six of the last eight games have gone UNDER the total. I expect this game to play out very similar, with few premium scoring chances for each team. Play UNDER the total in this matchup.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

5-unit Play Take #56 Calgary Flames (-140) over San Jose Sharks (9:05pm EST) The biggest game of the season to date goes tonight for the Calgary Flames. They are currently on the outside looking in as far as the playoffs go, but they're right there. The Flames are just two points away from a few different teams and there are only 11 games remaining in the season. It's been a tough few weeks for Calgary, but they've seemed to collect themselves of late. The Flames have won three of four and looked impressive in their last game versus the Oilers in which they toughed out a 1-0 win. The Sharks, meanwhile, are sitting nicely in second place in the Pacific Division. They haven't locked anything up, but they are certainly better off than most Western Conference contenders. The Sharks are coming off of an overtime win against the Oilers and I think they could be a little fatigued for this game. They've played some hard-fought games of late and, at this point in the season, teams are more tired than usual. I think the Flames are viewing this game a little differently than San Jose and are should be better rested. Take the Flames in our NHL Game of the Week.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #2 Columbus Blue Jackets/Philadelphia Flyers UNDER 5.5 (-120) (7:05pm EST) We're going to have a playoff-type atmosphere tonight in Philadelphia Flyers host the Columbus Blue Jackets. Both teams are hanging on for dear life in the Eastern Conference playoff race, separated by just two points with the Devils just a point behind. Six of the last eight Flyers' games have gone UNDER the game total as they've turned up the heat on defense lately. This game is going to have some major intensity going for it, so I like this one to go UNDER the total as well.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #11 Edmonton Oilers over Calgary Flames (9:05pm EST) It hasn't been a great season for the Oilers. They were expected to be in the postseason, but are going to fall considerably short of that. However, the pressure is now off this team and I think they finish the season up strong. They still have more talent than at least 25 NHL teams and are starting to show it lately. The Oilers have won three straight games and now head to Calgary to take on the Flames. Calgary has lost five of its last seven games and is spinning out of control as they head down the stretch run of the regular season. This line is about 10 cents too high, so we're on the Oilers today.

3-unit Play Take #62 Anaheim Ducks over St. Louis Blues (10:05pm EST) The Anaheim Ducks are playing really solid hockey down the stretch as they look to secure a playoff spot in the Western Conference. Early on in the season, the Ducks really struggled mostly due to some big injuries. But now they're mostly healthy and are 7-3-1 in their last 11 contest. Tonight they host the St. Louis Blues. Things have fallen apart quickly for the Blues and they're a big underdog to qualify for the postseason now. St. Louis has lost nine of their last 11 games and their heads are hanging pretty low. The Ducks are just currently holding onto the last playoff spot out West and I think they smell blood in the water with the Blues coming to town. Take the Ducks here.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #4 New York Islanders/Calgary Flames UNDER (7:05pm EST) The New York Islanders have lost eight straight contests, but it's not for lack of trying. Four of those losses were in overtime and the Isles have improved tremendously defensively over the last few weeks. Eight of their last 12 games have gone UNDER the total. Goaltenders Christopher Gibson and Jaroslav Halak have stepped up their games in the net as well for New York. Tonight they head to Calgary to take on the Flames. Calgary has been a higher-scoring team most of the year, but they've played in some tight, low-scoring games of late as well. I think this one plays out that way as well, so we're on the UNDER at the big number.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #67 Pittsburgh Penguins over Toronto Maple Leafs (7:05pm EST) The Penguins come in as one of the hottest teams in the league. They are 19-6-1 in their last 26 games and have been unbelievable offensively during that span. The Pens have been held to less three goals just three times in those 26 contests. Tonight they invade Toronto to take on the Leafs. Toronto has lost four straight games coming into this one, as Auston Matthews is still out. His absence from the lineup has been tough and I don't think they have enough firepower to stay with Pittsburgh without him. Play the Penguins in this one.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

5-unit Play Take #6 Anaheim Ducks/Dallas Stars UNDER 5.5 (-130) (8:35pm EST) Big game tonight in Dallas as the Stars host the Ducks. Both of these teams would be in the playoffs if the season ended today, but not by much. There are several teams nipping at their heels, and with only 14 games remaining in the regular season, every game is huge. Both clubs are coming off of losses to the Predators in their last game. I think Anaheim and Dallas may be a little gassed for this game. It's the fourth game in six nights for the Ducks (and second leg of a back-to-back), and the Stars have played three overtime games in their last four contests. It's going to feel like a playoff-like atmosphere in this game and I think goals are going to be tougher to come by. The UNDER is 10-3 in the last 13 games for the Ducks. The UNDER is 6-2 in the last eight games for the Stars. This should be a fun game, but I like the UNDER in our NHL Game of the Week.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #68 Carolina Hurricanes/Chicago Blackhawks OVER 5.5 (-115) (8:35pm EST) The Chicago Blackhawks are in unfamiliar territory. They're sitting in the cellar of the Central Division and have been getting worse as the season has progressed. Losing goalie Corey Crawford was a bigger blow than anyone could have imagined, and that's because backups Anton Forsberg, Jeff Glass and Jean-Francois Berube have struggled. Chicago also has several aging defensemen on the roster. As a result, we've been seeing the Hawks go OVER the total a lot recently. In their last three games, Hawks' games have yielded 6.67 goals per game. Carolina comes in losing eight of 10 and their season is over as well. We may see them opening it up a little more and getting some younger players in the fold. I like the OVER in this game.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #2 Buffalo Sabres over Calgary Flames (7:35pm EST) The Buffalo Sabres are in rebuilding mode name and won't make the postseason this year. But they certainly haven't been playing like it of late. Buffalo has won four of six and recorded wins against Boston, Tampa Bay and Toronto during their run. Today they're hosting a Calgary team that has dropped four straight and seven of their last nine. The Flames are also coming off of a tough 4-3 overtime loss in Pittsburgh to the Penguins. I think this will be a tight game and we'll go with the home underdog as a result.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #68 Anaheim Ducks over Washington Capitals (10:05pm EST) The Anaheim Ducks are rolling again. After suffering some major injuries over the first couple months of the season, the Ducks are now healthy and playing their best hockey of the entire season. The Ducks are 6-1-1 in their last eight. Tonight they host the Capitals in what should be a great game. The Caps have been inconsistent this season and their puck possession metrics rate them as just a mediocre team this season. They're leading the Metropolitan Division, but I think this team is a phony. Something is missing and, at this point, I don't think they can just flip a switch. I like the Ducks to get this one at home.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #10 New York Islanders/Vancouver Canucks UNDER 6 (+110) (10:05pm EST) The New York Islanders have been an OVER machine this season on the ice. The OVER is 39-24 in Islander games this season overall. However, the trend has started to change of late. Seven of the last 10 games have went UNDER the total for the Islanders. They are getting much better goalie play and the defense has clamped down in a big way. Tonight the Islanders are in Vancouver to go up against the Canucks. Vancouver has had problems scoring this season, as they rank 23rd in goals per game with just 2.71. The Sedin twins are slowing down and they just don't have the firepower they once did. Six is a high total and I like our chances of staying UNDER the total tonight.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #11 Toronto Maple Leafs (+100) over Washington Capitals (8:05pm EST) The Washington Capitals lead the Metropolitan Division right now, but don't expect it to last. The Caps have been a mediocre team for the majority of the season in puck possession and hasn't found the kind of rhythm we've seen them have in recent years. The Caps have lost six of 10 and tonight they have a tough opponent in the Maple Leafs. Toronto is 9-1-2 over their last 12 contests, with the only regulation loss coming against a red-hot Penguins team. Head coach Mike Babcock has his team peaking at just the right time and I think the Leafs pick up a tough road win here.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

5-unit Play Take #53 Buffalo Sabres over Florida Panthers (7:35pm EST) The Buffalo Sabres aren't making the playoff this year, but they aren't quitting either. The Sabres have won three of four and have knocked off the Bruins and Lightning in consecutive games. They were clearly the better team in both games and I think they are a live dog tonight in Florida. The Panthers have been playing well of late too, winning three straight against the Capitals, Penguins and Leafs. While those were impressive wins, they don't deserve to be this big of a favorite against a hot Sabres team. This price is at least 20-cents too high, so we'll take Buffalo in our NHL Game of the Week.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #4 Philadelphia Flyers over Carolina Hurricanes (7:05pm EST) The Philadelphia Flyers are playing tremendous hockey right now. They're 10-0-1 in their last 11 games and are now within striking distance for first place in the Metropolitan - a division that includes the Capitals and Penguins. The Flyers have been getting big contributions up and down their roster over the last couple of months and new goaltender Petr Mrazek has looked great in his first three games with his new team. The Hurricanes, meanwhile, are in freefall mode. They've lost six straight contests and are all but dead in the Eastern Conference playoff hunt. The Canes have also struggled big time on the road. Take Philadelphia at home today.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #54 New York Islanders/Montreal Canadiens UNDER 6 (+110) (7:05pm EST) The New York Islanders have been an OVER machine this season, but things are starting to change. The Isles have started to pick things up on the defensive end and they've gotten some superb efforts from the goaltenders lately. Five of their last seven games have went UNDER the total and most of those were easy winners. Tonight the Islanders go to Montreal to take on the Canadiens. The Habs have played into overtime in three of their last four contests, so they could be a bit gassed tonight. While that could sometimes lead to poor defensive effort, I don't think that will be the case tonight. Take the UNDER in this one.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #16 San Jose Sharks over Edmonton Oilers (10:35pm EST) The Edmonton Oilers' season is over. They made a horrible move at the trade deadline yesterday and I'm not sure the team is going to react well. The Sharks, meanwhile, added Evander Kane. While he may be a bit overrated, I think it could energize the team a little bit. The Sharks are right in the hunt for the playoffs, and they've lost three straight contests. I think they find a way to get this one at home tonight.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #8 Florida Panthers over Toronto Maple Leafs (7:35pm EST) Tough spot here for the Toronto Maple Leafs. They're coming off of a really tough 4-3 loss in a shootout with Tampa Bay last night. It was a game that the Leafs could have easily won. Toronto had won nine of its last 10 games and sometimes losses like these are momentum killers. Late season overtime games also tend to have a negative effect on teams playing a back-to-back the next day - especially on the road. The Panthers are quite out of the playoff race in the Eastern Conference. They're hanging on by a thread and need to string together some wins to have a shot at it. I like Florida here as the home underdog.

4-unit Play Take #59 Vegas Golden Knights over Los Angeles Kings (10:35pm EST) When the Vegas Golden Knights are underdogs, you have to take a close look. This team hasn't gotten the respect they deserve for most of the season. They have been one of the top three teams since day one and the advanced metrics back it up. Tonight they go to Los Angeles to take on the Kings. This Kings team has been a hard one to figure out. They've been a really good team at times, and a really bad team at time. They could be at the beginning of a funk right now, dropping two straight and looking flat in both contests. The Kings also haven't been all that good at home this season, winning 14 of their 28 home games. Vegas has handled the Kings in both prior meetings, and I think they do it again here tonight.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #56 Dallas Stars over Winnipeg Jets (7:05pm EST) This will be the second straight big game for the Winnipeg Jets in as many nights. They beat the Blues 4-0 in St. Louis last night, and now head to Dallas to take on the Stars. The Jets were fantastic last night and it's a tall task to ask them to do it again tonight. Dallas has won seven of 10 and have been playing tremendous defense over that stretch, allowing just 2.20 goals per game. The Stars have also been great at home this year, posting a 21-9-1 record. Winnipeg has only won 13 of its 30 road games on the season. I really like Dallas to get the win here tonight.

3-unit Play Take #69 Boston Bruins over Toronto Maple Leafs (7:05pm EST) The Boston Bruins are playing better hockey than anyone right now. They are 13-3-0 over their last 16 contests and have the second-best goal differential in the NHL right now. The Toronto Maple Leafs have been playing great hockey as well, going 12-2 over their last 14 games. Needless to say, this is a huge game. Unfortunately for the Leafs, they'll be without superstar Auston Matthews tonight. He's nursing an injured right shoulder and that changes everything for this team. Take the Bruins to get the road victory here.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #64 Florida Panthers over Washington Capitals (7:35pm EST) The Capitals are leading the Metropolitan Division, but all it not well in D.C. The Caps have outscored their opponents by only seven goals over the entire season and they rank in the bottom third in many of the puck possession metrics. They've also lost nine of their last 15 contests. The Caps have the talent to snap out of it, but for right now there are fade material. Florida probably isn't going to the playoffs this year, but they're not giving up either. The Panthers have won seven of their last 10 games overall. Take Florida to get this one.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #6 Vegas Golden Knights over Calgary Flames (10:35pm EST) Calgary has been flaming out of late, with just five wins in their last 15 contests. They lost a hard-fought battle versus the Bruins in overtime in their last game. Now they travel down the Las Vegas to take on the Knights, who are coming off a 2-0 loss at home to the Ducks. Vegas has only dropped consecutive home games once all season, and those two games were two weeks apart. The Knights are an impressive 22-5-2 at T-Mobile Arena this season. With this being Calgary's first trip to Las Vegas, they could catch a little bit of the Vegas flu. Take the Golden Knights tonight.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #55 Tampa Bay Lightning (-110) over Washington Capitals (7:05pm EST) The Washington Capitals are atop the Metropolitan Division with 75 points. On the surface, it looks like another successful regular season for the Caps. However, I see some major chinks in the armor for this team. They rank in the bottom third in many of puck possession metrics and haven't been able to score as consistently as they did in prior seasons. And lately, we haven't seen great hockey out of Washington. They've won just seven out of their last 16, which included an embarrassing 7-1 loss to a Blackhawks team that had dropped eight straight coming into that game. Meanwhile, the Lightning continue to look like the class of the Eastern Conference. They have the best goal differential in hockey and have led the way throughout the entire season. The Bolts are coming off of a 4-3 loss to the Devils - a game which Tampa dominated the shots on goal 51-28. If they play that well again on Tuesday night, they'll get a win. Take the Lightning here.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #9 Los Angeles Kings (-110) over Chicago Blackhawks (8:35pm EST) The Los Angeles Kings are in the thick of the playoff race - currently just two points away from the final spot in the Western Conference. They deserve better, however. The Kings have outshot their opponents by a collective 22 goals this season, which ranks fourth in the conference behind Vegas, Winnipeg and Nashville. Part of the problem is some misfortune, as Los Angeles is a frustrating 10-14 in one-goal games. I expect the Kings to kick it into high gear down the stretch and earn a postseason berth. Today they should have no problem against the struggling Blackhawks. Chicago has lost an embarrassing eight of nine overall. They did win a huge 7-1 decision against the Caps last time out to get off the schneid, but I have zero confidence in the Hawks right now. They are lifeless on the ice and have literally nothing to play for the remainder of the season. Take the Kings to get an easy win here.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #63 Dallas Stars over San Jose Sharks (8:05pm EST) The Dallas Stars have won six of seven and are playing their best hockey of the season. They've done a great job of possessing the puck and are now within striking distance of first place in the Central Division. The Sharks, meanwhile, are playing some solid hockey as well - recording three wins in their last four contests. San Jose is without Joe Thornton right now and that's a big loss for this tough matchup on Sunday. I really like how Dallas is playing right now and I think they find a way to get a big road win tonight. Play the Stars.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #15 Anaheim Ducks over Chicago Blackhawks (8:35pm EST) The Chicago Blackhawks have lost seven straight games and are sitting in last place in the Central Division. For the first time in 10 years, they'll be on the outside looking in come playoff time. The team is playing lackluster hockey and they're really hurting in the net with Corey Crawford on the injured list. Anaheim, meanwhile, isn't playing great hockey of late either. They've lost five of seven overall and don't have much of a chance at the postseason either. The Ducks have been better statistically of late, with their puck possession numbers climbing. Take Anaheim here.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #12 Minnesota Wild over Washington Capitals (8:05pm EST) The Washington Capitals are one of the most overrated teams in the league right now. They've been sitting atop the Metropolitan Division for most of the season, but the numbers just don't add up. The Caps are below average in the important puck possession metrics and have been very inconsistent this season. I'm not sure what is missing exactly, but the team is a couple of notches below where they've been in recent years. The Wild have won five of seven and have been fantastic at home this season with a 20-4-5 mark. Play Minnesota.

4-unit Play Take #7 Buffalo Sabres over Ottawa Senators (7:35pm EST) Two of the dregs of the league hook up on Thursday night as the Senators host the Sabres. Things have been looking up for Buffalo of late. They've won three of four, including wins against the Lightning and Bruins. This young Sabres team is starting to gel and I think they should be the favorites in this game. The Senators are coming off of back-to-back 6-3 road losses and looked sluggish. Take Buffalo to get this one.

4-unit Play Take #5 New York Rangers over New York Islanders (7:05pm EST) We've pocketed quite a bit of money fading the Islanders this season, and tonight we look to do it again. The Rangers make the short drive over in this one as they look to build on a nice three-game stretch. The Rags won two of those contests before falling 3-2 in Minnesota the last time out. It's the best three-game stretch in probably two months for the Rangers as they look to make a final push for postseason play. The Islanders have been a disaster defensively. They've given up three or more goals in eight straight contests and have allowed more goals than any team in the NHL this season. The Isles have dropped four of their last five, with the only win being a crazy 7-6 affair against the lowly Red Wings. The Rangers should be favored in this game, so we'll gladly grab them at this underdog price.

10-unit Play Take #7 Columbus Blue Jackets over New York Islanders (7:05pm EST) We've done well fading the New York Islanders and tonight presents us with another great opportunity. The Isles haven't played much defense all season long (last in the NHL in goals allowed) and it's getting worse as the season progresses. It's difficult relying on your offense to score four or five goals (and sometimes more) to win hockey games. At some point, your spirits get crushed and we're approaching that time for the Isles. Columbus has lost five of six games, but they broke through with a big 6-1 in last time out versus the Devils. I expect them to follow that up with a strong effort against the Isles and get the win in our NHL Game of the Week.

3-unit Play Take #56 Edmonton Oilers over Florida Panthers (9:05pm EST) The Edmonton Oilers are coming off of a tough road trip in which they dropped all three games and gave up 14 goals in the process. Those were against tough opponents in the Kings, Ducks and Sharks. They're back home tonight against a lesser opponent - the Florida Panthers. The Panthers, meanwhile, have won four of their last five games. We get to take advantage of the current form overreaction with a play on the Oilers today. Edmonton is the much better team between these two and we're getting about 10-15 cents the best of it based on the seasonal numbers. Play the Oilers today.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #63 Colorado Avalanche (+135) over Carolina Hurricanes (8:05pm EST) The Colorado Avalanche have made quite a transformation after last year's historically bad season. I don't think they're getting enough credit for the turnaround, especially in the betting markets. The Avs are just two points out of the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. They've also outscored their opponents by 12 goals on the season overall. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes are just a point out of the playoffs in the Eastern Conference. However, the West has been stronger than the East overall this season. By way of comparison, the Canes have been outscored by 17 goals overall this season. I have Colorado rated as the better team between these two, so we'll gladly take the nice underdog price.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #5 Detroit Red Wings/New York Islanders OVER 6 (-100) (7:05pm EST) The Detroit Red Wings have been struggling to score goals of late, but tonight they have the perfect cure - the New York Islanders defense. No team has allowed more goals than the Islanders have this season. Surprisingly, the Isles are also third in the NHL in goals scored. They love playing high-scoring affairs and the opponent doesn't seem to matter. OVERS are 34-17 in Islanders' games this season overall. I see more of the same in this one.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

5-unit Play Take #67 Vegas Golden Knights over San Jose Sharks (10:35pm EST) The Vegas Golden Knights wrap up a long six-game road trip tonight in San Jose. With a win tonight, it would be a winning trip for the Knights overall (they are 3-2 so far). They are coming off of a tough 5-4 loss in Pittsburgh on Tuesday, but they get a much easier time of it tonight against a struggling Sharks team. The Sharks have lost five of seven and this is their first game back home after a five-game roadie - historically a tough situation. The offense has really been inconsistent of late and San Jose seems to be losing some confidence in starting goalie Martin Jones. The Sharks are in the bottom third of the league in the important puck possession metrics and that's unfamiliar territory for this team. Part of it is an aging roster and lack of depth is a big issue too. Vegas has been a resilient team after a loss this season (10-5) and I expect them to get the victory here. Play the Golden Knights in our NHL Game of the Week.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #1 Nashville Predators over Toronto Maple Leafs (7:35pm EST) The Nashville Predators are one of the hottest teams in the NHL. They are 9-1-1 over their last 11 games and are now within striking distance of first place in the Central Division. The offense has been superb lately, scoring 15 goals over their last three contests. They're playing like they did down the stretch last season when they went all the way to the Stanley Cup Final. Tonight they're in Toronto to take on the Leafs. The Maple Leafs have won five of six and seem to have their offense back on track as well. This should be a good game to watch, but I think the Preds are the better squad. We'll take Nashville at this price.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

4-unit Play Take #53 Philadelphia Flyers over Carolina Hurricanes (7:05pm EST) The Flyers have dropped four straight games, but it's not necessarily due to poor play all around. Their goaltenders have let them down, but Philadelphia has outshot their opponents soundly over the four-games stretch and is playing good hockey over the last month or so. Before this stretch, the Flyers had won eight of nine and got themselves back in the playoff picture. They are climbing up the puck possession leaderboard and I think they're underrated right now. They'll take on the Hurricanes in this one. Carolina hasn't been able to find much rhythm this season. It's been up and down and I still think they are a player or two away from competing at a playoff level. Take the Flyers tonight.

4-unit Play Take #57 Vegas Golden Knights over Pittsburgh Penguins (7:05pm EST) We'll keep playing Vegas if they're in the underdog role. The Knights are the best team in the sport and the numbers back them up. The Penguins haven't been the same this season as we're seeing the toll of two Stanley Cup runs finally getting to the team. Take Vegas.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #3 Nashville Predators over New York Islanders (7:05pm EST) The Nashville Predators are coming off of a pair of impressive wins versus the Kings and Rangers in which they won by a combined 10-2 score. They also outshot those opponents 64-41 and were the better team throughout the action. Now they begin a four-game road trip starting in New York against the Islanders. The Isles have been a mess this season defensively. They are allowing a league-worst 3.60 goals against and are stopping only 89.8% of shots on goal. The Predators haven't had a great season offensively, but I think they take advantage of a weak defense tonight. Go Predators.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #5 Detroit Red Wings (+130) over Florida Panthers (7:05pm EST) The Detroit Red Wings aren't going to the playoffs this season. But that doesn't mean we can't make a little money off of them. The Wings have recorded two impressive wins since the All-Star break against the Sharks and Hurricanes. Tonight they head to Florida to take on the Panthers. Florida has also won two straight, but against weaker competition (the Sabres and Isles). Detroit is two points better in the standings and has a better point differential overall. I think this line should be about 10-15 cents lower, so we're on Detroit here.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #54 Columbus Blue Jackets (-125) over San Jose Sharks (7:05pm EST) The Columbus Blue Jackets haven't looked like the team they were last season. There's been a ton of inconsistent play and some tough losses. I think the All-Star break was what this team needed to recharge the batteries and start fresh again. The Jackets are still sitting in a playoff spot, however. They also play in an extremely tough division, but have the talent and head coach to do some damage. Tonight they host the San Jose Sharks. The Sharks are an aging bunch and I'm not sure how well they hold up in the second half. They've lost four straight and this is their third game in four nights, with the last contest going all the way to a shootout in Detroit. Good spot here for Columbus and that's the direction we're going.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

3-unit Play Take #23 Chicago Blackhawks (-115) over Vancouver Canucks (10:05pm EST) The Blackhawks are sitting in last place in the Central Division, but it's not as dreary as it appears. Chicago is just four points away from a playoff spot and they've yet to hit stride this season. The All-Star break came at the right time for this team and they responded with a really nice 2-1 win in Nashville on Tuesday night. The metrics are still good for the Hawks, they've just caught some unfortunate breaks. Tonight they're in Vancouver to take on the Canucks. Things have been up and down for Vancouver, which is to be expected of a rebuilding team. They've been outscored by 31 goals on the season and it's probably going to get worse as they strip away more talent before the trade deadline. I think Chicago picks up a win here.

Best of Luck - Doc's Sports

5-unit Play Take #5 Philadelphia Flyers (-105) over New Jersey Devils (7:05pm EST) The Philadelphia Flyers are quietly making a strong move up the standings in the Eastern Conference. They are 8-2-1 in their last 11 contests and would be in the playoffs if the season ended today. It's been a true team effort as they've gotten strong contributions from all of their lines of late. This is also a healthy Flyers squad, which can't be said of their opponents tonight - the New Jersey Devils. The Devils are without starting goaltender Cory Schneider and are also missing a couple of wingers. After a strong start to the season, the team has won just three of its last 13 games. The Devils are currently two points ahead of the Flyers in the standings, but don't expect that to hold for much longer. The Flyers rank much higher in the puck possession metrics and it's only a matter of time before they overtake New Jersey. Play Philadelphia in our NHL Game of the Week.

4-unit Play Take #23 Colorado Avalanche/Vancouver Canucks OVER 5.5 (-110) (10:05pm EST)