NHL Free Picks

The set-up: As primarily a situational handicapper, this NHL season is definitely shaping up to be an interesting one, because "motivation" really does come into play on an almost nightly basis when teams are seeing each other at least twice in a row (Montreal is actually going to be playing three straight in Vancouver this week.) But in this case, from a situational stand point, I think this one definitely sets up as a lower-scoring contest between the Avalanche and Kings. These teams will play two straight in LA, with the next game coming on Thursday night. The Kings have opened up the season 0-2, but it certainly hasn't been from a lack of trying, as they're off consecutive 4-3 overtime losses at home to Minnesota. Both totals flew well over the posted number of 5.5, but now the Kings are desperate here as they look to finally break into the winners circle. LA will be ultra focussed too facing the Avalanche, who are 1-1 after losing 4-1 to the Blues at home on Opening night, before then bouncing back for that crazy 8-0 win over St. Louis in the second.

The pick: There's usually only a handful of completely lop-sided games like that per season, and I don't foresee the Avalanche repeating that offensive outburst two times in a row. It's interesting to note as well that Colorado has seen the total go under the number in eight of its last 11 road games after scoring six or more goals in a win in its last outing. And it doesn't matter to me who gets the start in net in this one, whether its the starters or the backups, this for me is based upon the situation and the strong trend I listed. So while each team has played to some higher-scoring affairs to open up the year, everything points to a lower-scoring contest here in my opinion in the opener of this two game set.

The is a 1* FREE PLAY on the UNDER Avs/Kings.

The Blackhawks are not playing well in front of the goal or in goal. Two of their first three games have gone over the total. Florida is no defensive powerhouse either as they like to run and gun which creates lots of goal scoring chances and also creates quick chances on transition for the opposittion. Expect a high-scoring game in this one! The total has gone OVER in 4 of Florida's last 5 games against Chicago. Take the OVER!