February 9th, 2010 NHL Picks

Vancouver @ Tampa Bay
The Canucks and the Lighting are both coming off of an overtime and shootout win in their last games. The Canucks have been on a tear lately but have been allowing over 2 goals in the last 5 games on the penalty kill. Tampa Bay has been amazing at home this year and are 16-6-1-5 when playing in front of the home crowd. I like Tampa Bay especially if Nittymaki is in net for the Lighting. The Vancouver squad has had Tampas number in the last few matchups and will defianlty give the Lighting a good game but I feel like the letdown could be a possibility here and the home underdog has some value here.The Canucks are also in a tough spot playing their 5 straight on the road.
Lightning are 5-1 in their last 6 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.

Lightning are 5-1 in their last 6 home games.
Lightning are 4-1 in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a losing road record.
Lightning are 4-1 in their last 5 games following a win.
Lightning are 6-2 in their last 8 overall.
Home team is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.

PLAY Tampa Bay +115
+200/230
WIN +230


Nashville @ New York Islanders
The Isles have been good to me earlier in the season but have struggled as of late by losing the last 9. Goaltending has troubled the Isles since Dipeitro returned and Roloson has been their best bet as of late. The Nashville Predators have been struggling in their last 10 but are averaging 5.5 goals for when a road favorite this year. The Preds are also 11-5 with Rinne in net as a favorite. Check back for starting goaltenders as Roloson is 11-4 at home this year and may force a reduction in bet amount if in as the Isles starting goalie. Nashville is the play here in my opinion as the Isles show no sign of life as of late.
Predators are 7-1 in their last 8 vs. Eastern Conference.

Predators are 18-7-2 in their last 27 vs. Atlantic.
Predators are 9-4 in their last 13 vs. a team with a losing record.
Predators are 5-0 in the last 5 meetings.
Islanders are 16-36 in their last 52 vs. a team with a winning record.

Islanders are 8-20 in their last 28 games playing on 2 days rest.
Islanders are 7-19 in their last 26 Tuesday games.
Islanders are 0-7 in their last 7 overall.
Islanders are 0-7 in their last 7 after scoring 2 goals or less in their previous game.

PLAY Nashville -130
-260/200
OT LOSS -260