We have 24 teams in action tonight, and the 12-game slate involves several intriguing games. The one many will be glued to has to be Dallas’ visit to Winnipeg, as the Central Division rivals meet in a critical early-season game.
From the Metropolitan Division, the New Jersey head over the bridge to face the New York Islanders, and from the Pacific Division, we have the Edmonton Oilers visiting the Vancouver Canucks.
But the game I’m most intrigued by happens to involve the Florida Panthers once again, this time against the Philadelphia Flyers, as I once again see clear-cut value with what appears to be a blowout in the making.
Let’s do a deep dive into this Eastern Conference showdown.
WHY PHILADELPHIA: The Flyers are coming off an inspiring shootout win in Tampa on Thursday, as they were able to pull off the 2-1 upset. It’s the type of win that instills confidence during a road trip, especially since the three-game tour started with a 6-4 loss in Carolina, and now the momentum flows into Sunrise, where facing the defending Stanley Cup champs should provide plenty of motivation. Oh, and by the way, the Flyers have won four of the last five meetings.
WHY FLORIDA: The Panthers step on the ice winners of six straight, behind an offense that has scored at least four goals in the last five wins during the streak. Since Oct. 26, the champs rank No. 1 in the NHL with 5.40 goals-for per game. Their offense is clicking right now, and considering the team they’re facing, it’s hard to imagine the Panthers slowing down anytime soon.
All betting lines are from Bet365 and are subject to change. Hockey is a difficult sport to predict so please gamble responsibly.
THE PICK – PANTHERS -1.5 goals -105: If you were going to bet Florida at -105, you’d have no problem. Against a Flyers team that is allowing a league fifth-most 3.64 goals per game, you shouldn’t have a problem laying the puck line at the same price. Philly has allowed four or more goals in eight of its 14 games. I must admit, I was shocked at Philly’s 4-1 win streak against the Panthers. But that won’t scare me off streaking Florida, which is in the midst of a six-game homestand, and appears to be enjoying itself.
(Season Record: 3-2-0, Net: $125, based on $100 units)