January 28th, 2010 NHL Pick

Minnesota @ Colorado
Colorado has been playing really good hockey lately and are coming into this matchup having won six straight. Minnesota won last night against against Detroit. The Av's are comin in off of three days rest and when at home the Avalanche are averaging 3.1 goals per game, and giving up 2.4 goals against on defense. On the road, the Wild are averaging 2.2 goals per game, and giving up 3.0 goals against on defense. Anderson will be in net and is averaging a .976 save percentage in the ast five, to Backstroms .868. In the last 5 the Avalanche have averaged letting in .8 goals a game! The Wild have the lead in the series matchup 5-1 in the last 6 but tonight I like the extra time to help Colorado tonight and give them the push needed to get this win.
Avalanche are 5-0 in their last 5 after allowing 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Avalanche are 4-0 in their last 4 vs. Northwest.
Avalanche are 5-0 in their last 5 games following a win.
Avalanche are 6-0 in their last 6 overall.
Avalanche are 4-0 in their last 4 home games.
Avalanche are 5-0 in their last 5 vs. Western Conference.
Avalanche are 5-1 in their last 6 when their opponent allows 2 goals or less in their previous game.
Avalanche are 5-1 in their last 6 games playing on 3 or more days rest.
Avalanche are 4-1 in their last 5 games as a home favorite.
Avalanche are 17-7 in their last 24 games as a favorite of -151 to -200.
Avalanche are 15-7 in their last 22 games as a home favorite of -151 to -200.
Wild are 16-35 in their last 51 games as a road underdog.

Wild are 18-40 in their last 58 road games.
Wild are 1-4 in their last 5 games as an underdog.
Wild are 1-4 in their last 5 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.
Wild are 1-7 in their last 8 Thursday games.

PLAY Colorado -160
-320/200
LOSS -320