(23-34  +0.78 units)

Canadiens/Jets:

The Montreal Canadiens and Winnipeg Jets will square off for the first time this season, in what is not normally exactly a matchup between two predictable teams.

Both teams have been quite streaky so far, but sit in decent positions coming into the break.

One of the reasons that this line is as short as it is for a Winnipeg team that is not only the better of the two, but also in a home and hostile environment towards visitors, is the fact that Montreal has had very strong puck possession numbers. The Habs are a top three team in Fenwick this year, while the Winnipeg Jets are nowhere near the top half in domination.

Because Winnipeg has been successful without the domination, I expect the Jets to be able to disrupt puck cycles and create opportunities for themselves. On top of that, Montreal is also winding down to the end of their Western Canada road trip, and was starting to get a little porous in Edmonton. Now, they will face a deeper Winnipeg team, and will have to pray that their offense matches things today.

I will give the edge to Winnipeg here to go into the Christmas break on a winning note at home.

Jets moneyline -103  1.5*

Devils/Blackhawks:

Nearing the midway point of the season, it is clear that neither the New Jersey Devils nor the Chicago Blackhawks are expected to be in playoff talks anytime soon.

On top of that, neither team really has a whole lot of consistency, nor do either really focus on puck possession as strengths.

Going into the break however, and having a better past week than their seasons suggest, I expect both teams to flex their offenses in a very high paced run and gun game. Both teams have had to face stronger structures during their recent stretches, and should have more of a pond hockey approach today.

OVER 6  -106  1*