(99-93 +5.95 units)

Penguins/Maple Leafs:

The Pittsburgh Penguins have surged to life in the second half of the season, and can get into impeccable rhythm when they are focused. Right now, they will carry a three game winning streak into Toronto to face a slumping Leafs team that has now lost four straight games.

I don’t think this really needs to be emphasized, but Auston Matthews means an awful lot to these Toronto team late in the season. The Leafs are 1-4 since losing him to his last injury. Despite having a psychology masters holder as a coach, it will be hard for these kids to deal with the losing pressure as the Playoff race tightens.

In terms of team nature, Pittsburgh is the epitome of resiliency, and it will be very difficult for Toronto to get into a groove. They will eventually, but I do not think the 5 days off will work to their advantage today.

Penguins moneyline -115 2*

Rangers/Panthers:

Tonight at Sunrise, we have a battle between two teams going in opposite directions. I shouldn’t even say battle, considering that the Rangers have announced their surrender.

The Florida Panthers are on an absolute roll, but have done so at home very responsibly on defense. With Luongo looking better than ever this season, and every line being good in two way ability. The Rangers should be a cakewalk, but at the same time, these young Panthers may have an subconscious instinct that takes the Rangers lightly.

The Rangers have been an UNDER team since announcing their surrender, with the exception of a few games here and there. Today, they will face a team that does not typically run up the score, and they should have a much better defensive effort in front of Lundqvist, just for dignity sake. Getting outshot 20-1 at any point in a game is unacceptable even for a defeated team, and that’s what the Rangers did in the first period against Tampa last game.

UNDER 6.5 -125 1*

Wild/Oilers:

The Minnesota Wild have been surging through, and had another strong finish in Vancouver last night. Today, they will face an Oilers team with really nothing to gain nor lose, meaning that there will be little pressure on Edmonton to perform how they wish.

We have seen a few flashes of brilliance this season from Edmonton, but keyword is few. However, with no pressure, the Oilers should be in their most natural state, and going up against a fatigue team that is in a thick playoff race.

Oilers moneyline -105 1*